Schools say 'Hola' to Spanish visitors

A group of headteachers and educational staff from primary schools in Spain are arriving in Rochdale this week, to work with teachers and schools across the borough.

Their visit is part of an ongoing scheme by Rochdale Borough Council, to build links between European schools and provide opportunities for students to meet speakers of other languages.

Five headteachers and 12 teachers from schools in Cantabrian, Northern Spain will be visiting local schools throughout the week and taking part in activities where pupils will embrace the Spanish culture and language.

From September 2009, Key Stage 2 pupils will be entitled to be taught one hour a week of French or Spanish as part of a new language entitlement. Many local primary schools are already providing language opportunities. It is hoped that this visit will also help gear up students and teachers for the introduction of this programme.

Teachers have already undergone intensive training in preparation for the new languages they will be teaching.

Sue Brown, Head of Schools at Rochdale Borough Council said this eagerly awaited visit would give children a flavour of the language they will be studying: “This visit is part of our ongoing commitment to build and maintain links with European schools. It will be a great chance for the Spanish teachers to see our schools and the way we teach.”