The main objective of the Spanish courses is to improve the student's communicative skills. The emphasis of classroom activities is therefore the development of the student's ability to speak and understand spoken Spanish. For this reason, classes are conducted entirely in Spanish and students are given plenty of opportunity to practice the sort of language they are likely to need outside the classroom. While the atmosphere in the classroom is generally relaxed and informal, students should be prepared to work hard and participate fully.
Due attention is also paid to grammar, vocabulary, reading and writing skills, and a wide variety of materials is used including published materials from many different sources as well as materials which have been written by the school's own teachers. All materials that the students need to work with are provided free of charge. This includes a Spanish Grammar book which is given to students at the beginning of their course. Students who attend private classes will have course materials designed specifically to meet their particular needs.
The teaching and the course program are carefully supervised by the Director of Studies who is also responsible for ensuring that students are placed in the appropriate level and that their progress is satisfactory. On the first day of the course, each student with any prior knowledge of Spanish is given both an oral and a written entry test so that their level of ability can be ascertained and they can be placed in the most appropriate group.
A wide range of levels are offered, from absolute beginners to very advanced. Students will normally need at least 40 hours tuition at any one level before advancing to the next course. The names given to each level are as follows: Beginners, Elementary, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Intermediate 3, Advanced 1, Advanced 2, Advanced 3, Proficiency.
Intensive Group
The Intensive Group Course consists of 4 hours per day of Spanish, from Monday to Friday. Classes take place from 09.30 to 13.30, with a 20 minute break for coffee taken halfway through the morning. Students may enroll for as many weeks as they like (minimum 2 weeks). Intensive Group Courses are offered at all levels from complete beginners to very advanced. There is a maximum of 8 students per group.
One-to-one classes
The dates, times and linguistic focus of these private language classes can be scheduled to suit the needs and preferences of the students concerned. We are able to offer private classes at all levels and students can start any Monday of the year (except public holidays).
Admissions & Academic Credit
Students age 18 years and older are welcomed regardless of educational background, occupation or nationality. No previous knowledge of Spanish is required.
Students desiring credit for their study program should contact their home school or request the NRCSA Credit Fact Sheet. Generally, U.S. universities consider 15 hours of study to be equal to 1 semester credit.
For more information about academic credit in Spanish speaking countries, please click here. For general information on academic credit, please click here.
Intensive Group
The Intensive Group Course consists of 4 hours per day of Spanish, from Monday to Friday. Classes take place from 09.30 to 13.30, with a 20 minute break for coffee taken halfway through the morning. Students may enroll for as many weeks as they like (minimum 2 weeks). Intensive Group Courses are offered at all levels from complete beginners to very advanced. There is a maximum of 8 students per group.