Over 6,500 young people aged 13-18 are already signed up through schools across the UK to access the Spanish Languages and Careers webinar and recording, one of many events delivered as part of Express Yourself: North East Festival of Languages.
Developed to inspire pupils to progress with languages and choose them at GCSE, A Level and beyond, the webinar resources provide young people with an insight into how languages and having Spanish language skills can open a world of opportunities for future study and careers, personal development, confidence, travel and intercultural awareness.
The webinar recording, presentation and pupil worksheet are available to any schools who register by 31st March, along with a compilation additional resources from the Spanish Embassy for teaching and learning across primary and secondary schools.
To access all the resources email info@expressyourselfne.com with:
- the name of the webinar
- your school name and address
- school contact name and email
- the number of pupils expected to participate and what Key Stage they are in.
José Jiménez Serrano: Education Adviser, Spanish Embassy Education Department
Presenting the webinar on 4th March, José spoke passionately about all the reasons to learn Spanish. He shared examples from his own experience and videos of the global importance of Spanish. José provided lots of facts and insights into all 10 areas, where speaking Spanish benefits young people – from opening doors to future education and careers opportunities, to life-enhancing travel, friendships and cultural experiences.
Spanish facts
- There are 21 Spanish-speaking countries and over 600 million speakers worldwide
- It the second most spoken language as a mother tongue, after Mandarin Chinese.
- If current trends continue, it will be the most popular language GCSE in 2026
- Spanish is the most popular language at A Level in the UK
- Having a Spanish A Level can help students get into university
- Young people are more likely to get a good job with a Spanish (or any) language qualification
- Spanish is relatively easy to learn, it’s fun and opens doors to friendships, travel and culture
Acknowledgements
- We are grateful to José Jiménez Serrano and Antonio Jesús Goñi Mues from the Spanish Embassy Education Department, who prepared the webinar presentation, pupil worksheet and additional resources and who worked with the Festival to make this activity accessible to secondary schools UK-wide.
- Thanks to Declan Baharini (International Newcastle and Festival Co-ordinator) and Sarah Edgar (School Effectiveness, Newcastle City Council) for working with the Spanish Embassy Education Department to develop the activity as part of the Festival and for engaging North East and UK schools.
- We would also like to thank Natalie Jennings from Newcastle City Council, who provided technical support for the webinar, worked with the presenters and made the recording possible.
