Frequently Asked Questions
GCSE
When do classes run?
Our classes run every half‑term, in blocks of 5, 6 or 7 weeks, depending on where the school holidays fall. Because term dates vary across the UK, we always give parents clear start and end dates with plenty of notice.
Your child is welcome to join at any point in the year — we’ll make sure they settle in confidently, whatever their starting point.
Which class is right for my child?
If your child is new to learning Spanish, the Beginners classes are the best place to start. We focus on building confidence through simple vocabulary, pronunciation and the very basics of grammar.
If they already know a few words or have taken part in one of our Beginners classes, then the Improvers classes are the natural next step. These sessions help children build on what they already know with structured topics and steady progression.
If your child has been learning Spanish for a while, knows the basics (for example, simple present‑tense verbs) and is planning to sit GCSE in the future, the Pre‑GCSE class is ideal.
If they are aiming to sit the GCSE exam within the next 1–2 years, the GCSE class will be the best fit, preparing them for all elements of the exam.
For students starting A‑Level Spanish, Summiteers is the right class to help bridge the gap and build confidence before September.
If you’re unsure where your child fits, just get in touch — we’re always happy to help place them in the class where they’ll feel confident and make great progress.
What happens if you miss a lesson?
If your child misses a lesson, don’t worry — they won’t fall behind. All groups have access to Google Classroom, where lesson materials, vocabulary lists, homework, and any resources used in class are uploaded each week. Your child can catch up in their own time and still stay on track with the group.
If you need extra support after an absence, you’re welcome to get in touch via info@adventuresinspanish.co.uk or WhatsApp, and we can guide you on what was covered and what to focus on next.
What if my child is doing GCSE at school already?
Many of our GCSE students use these classes alongside school lessons — for extra speaking practice, exam technique, or to plug specific gaps.
Is this suitable for iGCSE as well as GCSE?
Yes — iGCSE is a popular choice among home-educated families, and we teach broadly across all exam boards, so iGCSE students are well catered for alongside GCSE students. and if you’re not sure which exam board your child’s actually sitting, here’s a full breakdown of the differences between AQA, Edexcel, and iGCSE to help you work out what fits.
Can we join mid-term?
Yes — please contact us directly at info@adventuresinspanish.co.uk to arrange payment and get set up.
Does my child need to already know some Spanish?
This course assumes GCSE-entry level; if your child is starting from scratch, our Home Education Pathfinders/Voyagers classes are a better starting point.
What exam board do you teach?
We teach across all major exam boards, including AQA, Edexcel Pearson, and Cambridge (iGCSE), so lessons are tailored to whichever specification your child is following. If you’re still deciding which board is the right fit, here’s a breakdown of the differences between AQA, Edexcel, and iGCSE.
Is attendance to the GCSE group enough to prepare a student for the exam or do they need additional support?
Attendance at the GCSE group gives students a strong foundation in the skills and content needed for the exam. However, depending on the individual student, their level of independent study, and how close the exam date is, we usually recommend additional support in the lead‑up to the exam.
This often includes 1:1 sessions to work through past papers from their specific exam board, practise the oral exam, and focus on any areas of weakness.
We also recommend our Oral Prep conversational classes and GCSE Exam Booster sessions, which provide targeted practice and confidence‑building support outside of the weekly group lessons.
What exam board do you prepare for in the GCSE group?
Through a wide range of materials and resources from different exam boards, the GCSE group prepares students for the three main Spanish exams: AQA, Edexcel Pearson (iGCSE) and CIE (Cambridge International Exam).
If you’d like a clearer breakdown of the differences between these exam boards and guidance on choosing the right one as a private candidate, you can read our full guide here: Can My Home-Educated Child Take GCSE Spanish?
Home Education Groups
When do classes run?
Our classes run every half‑term, in blocks of 5, 6 or 7 weeks, depending on where the school holidays fall. Because term dates vary across the UK, we always give parents clear start and end dates with plenty of notice.
Your child is welcome to join at any point in the year — we’ll make sure they settle in confidently, whatever their starting point.
Which class is right for my child?
If your child is new to learning Spanish, the Beginners classes are the best place to start. We focus on building confidence through simple vocabulary, pronunciation and the very basics of grammar.
If they already know a few words or have taken part in one of our Beginners classes, then the Improvers classes are the natural next step. These sessions help children build on what they already know with structured topics and steady progression.
If your child has been learning Spanish for a while, knows the basics (for example, simple present‑tense verbs) and is planning to sit GCSE in the future, the Pre‑GCSE class is ideal.
If they are aiming to sit the GCSE exam within the next 1–2 years, the GCSE class will be the best fit, preparing them for all elements of the exam.
For students starting A‑Level Spanish, Summiteers is the right class to help bridge the gap and build confidence before September.
If you’re unsure where your child fits, just get in touch — we’re always happy to help place them in the class where they’ll feel confident and make great progress.
What happens if you miss a lesson?
If your child misses a lesson, don’t worry — they won’t fall behind. All groups have access to Google Classroom, where lesson materials, vocabulary lists, homework, and any resources used in class are uploaded each week. Your child can catch up in their own time and still stay on track with the group.
If you need extra support after an absence, you’re welcome to get in touch via info@adventuresinspanish.co.uk or WhatsApp, and we can guide you on what was covered and what to focus on next.
What syllabus do you follow in the Beginners & Improvers classes?
For our Key Stage 2 classes (First Steps & Trail Blazers), we follow the Spanish Schemes of Work created for the Cam Academy Trust schools. These are high‑quality, research‑informed primary language curricula designed to help young learners build strong foundations in Spanish.
The KS2 syllabus includes:
- Structured Schemes of Work for Years 3–6, organised into Autumn, Spring and Summer terms
- Spanish lesson materials created by Paula Vázquez‑Valero (Comberton Village College) and Rachel Hawkes
- A focus on the three key knowledge strands: phonics, vocabulary and grammar, as recommended by national language pedagogy research
- Cultural contexts woven into lessons to build confident communication in Spanish
- Resources designed for teachers with or without prior expertise, including fully‑audio versions to support delivery
These KS2 materials are also part of a long‑term study on language development in primary schools, ensuring they remain evidence‑based and effective for young learners .
For our Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 classes, we follow the Language‑Driven Pedagogy (LDP) syllabus. This is a research‑informed approach to language teaching designed by specialists in Modern Foreign Languages and supported by high‑quality classroom resources.
The LDP syllabus provides:
- Structured Schemes of Work that map out learning across KS3 and KS4
- Research‑based teaching materials focusing on phonics, vocabulary and grammar
- Clear progression from beginner to exam‑ready content
- Assessment tasks that align with the teaching sequence
- Consistent, accessible resources that support confident language learning
It’s a modern, evidence‑based syllabus that helps students build strong foundations and make steady progress towards GCSE level.
Can my child join partway through the course?
Yes — please contact us directly at info@adventuresinspanish.co.uk to arrange payment and get set up.
Do you teach South American or European Spanish?
Kelly learnt European Spanish at high school (many years ago) then went on to live in South America for 20 years where she became fluent. Her accent is South American however her teaching covers grammar and vocabulary from both South America and Spain. As the GCSE and IGCSE syllabus in the UK are based on European Spanish they do also include cultural topics from Centra and South America, therefore it’s important students are familiar with all. it’s important students are familiar with all. Curious about the specific differences? Here’s a full breakdown of South American vs. European Spanish.
How can we contact you?
Students can contact the tutor directly through our Google Classroom. Parents are welcome to send us a WhatsApp: 07960 150701, book a call, or email us info@adventuresinspanish.co.uk.
Is there any support outside of the lessons?
Yes — students have support outside of their weekly lessons. All groups have access to our Google Classroom, where they can ask questions, get clarification, and find extra resources. Their tutor is active in the classroom throughout the week, so learners can reach out whenever they need help. Parents are also welcome to contact us if they have any concerns or need guidance.
How do I book?
Booking a place for your child couldn’t be simpler.
Step 1. Select the course you want to book from our bookings page & ‘add to cart’.
Step 2. ‘Proceed to Checkout’.
Step 3. Enter the email address where you’d like to receive your booking confirmation.
Step 4. Tick “Yes, I want to receive your newsletter” — because why wouldn’t you!?
Step 5. Fill in your billing information.
Step 6. Check “Save information” so you only have to do this once.
Step 7. Click “Place order.”
That’s it! An account will automatically be created for you using the email address you provided (with a temporary password). You’ll receive an email with a link to reset your password or you can click on the My Account tab at the top of the page where you’ll be prompted to update your password.
How do you control the behavior in the classes?
We request that all parents read our Terms & Conditions HERE. We also limit use of the chat function during the lessons.
Do you set homework and is it marked?
Homework is set regularly in the KS3, Teens Conversation & GCSE groups. It is not marked. Students are asked to upload it into our Google Classroom if they would like feedback on it – they are not obliged to do it. Occasionally activities are set in the Teens Conversation Class mainly to allow learners to prepare any materials or vocabulary for the following week. Homework is not set in the KS2 group.
Are lessons recorded?
No. For safeguarding reasons lessons are not recorded.
Does my child need to have their cameras on?
Yes please. Students get so much more out of the lessons when they interact with others in the class. Interaction cannot happen if the camera is off. Also, As all other students have their cameras on it is a little strange for them if one person doesn’t. Exceptions as always can be made so please let me know beforehand if your child requires to have their camera off.
Can I book a trial lesson?
Yes — you can book a free 30‑minute taster lesson. These sessions give your child a relaxed, fun introduction to how our classes work and help you decide whether our approach is the right fit. You can find the details and book a spot on the next available taster lesson directly from our website here.
We are always more than happy to arrange a 15 minute zoom call with you and your child to introduce your tutor and meet you both. If you think this is something you would like to arrange please feel free to email us on info@adventuresinspanish.co.uk
How do I know if my child is a beginner or an improver?
The Beginners class is ideal for children who are completely new to Spanish or who have only picked up a few words and phrases. We start from the very basics and build confidence through simple vocabulary, pronunciation, and introductory grammar. Children as young as 6 can join this group.
The Improvers class is suitable for children who already have some Spanish and are ready to progress. This might include learners who’ve done lessons before, used apps, or picked up Spanish at school. In this group, students follow a structured set of topics and work through their own Student Book as they build on what they already know.
If you’re unsure which level is best, you’re always welcome to get in touch — we can help place your child in the group where they’ll feel confident and make the most progress.
What age are your courses suitable for?
Due to the topic content in each course I like to adhere to certain age criteria for each course (see below) however exceptions can be made.
The KS2 classes as I like to call it is suitable for children aged 7-11 (I can accept six-year-olds with adult supervision or those with advanced knowledge of the language). Older children can join in however please note that the average class age is usually eight.
The KS3 classes are suitable for children aged 11-14. Younger children who have been learning Spanish before or who have attended my KS2 class can attend. Older children may find the group topics too “young”. The average age for this group is 12.
IGCSE group. As the content of this course is geared towards preparing children for the GCSE exams it is important parents take this into consideration before booking a younger but able student into the class. I recommend booking a call with us to discuss your child’s ability if you are unsure if this course will be suitable for them.
Teens Conversation Class – As the name suggests this is suitable for teens, late tweens are also welcome. Similar to the GCSE group, the content of this class is prepared for teenagers. Average age in this group is 14.
How do I access the tutor support?
Students can reach their tutor directly through the Google Classroom, where they can ask questions, get clarification, and access extra resources throughout the week.
Parents can contact us via WhatsApp 07960150701, email info@adventuresinspanish.co.uk, or by booking a call with Kelly here.
Spanish Immersion Trips
What happens if we need to cancel?
We understand that plans can change. The £50 per person deposit is required to secure your place and is deducted from your final balance. Full details of our cancellation policy and balance payment deadlines are included in the trip information pack. We strongly recommend that all families take out comprehensive travel insurance before booking — this should cover cancellation, medical expenses, and any travel disruption.
How many children will be on the trip?
This is a deliberately small-group experience. We keep numbers limited to ensure every child receives proper attention from our tutors, feels comfortable in the group, and gets the most out of the immersion experience. Exact group size will be confirmed closer to the trip date — but this is not a large group holiday. Small is very much the point. Maximum 10 children take part in the full-board programme with a total of 25 children taking part in the lessons and activities. Learn more about how we structure the days in Málaga here.
What is included in the price?
This depends on the programme option you choose. The Full Programme includes five nights full board accommodation with a local Spanish family in Málaga or at AIL Madrid Student Residence, four hours of Spanish lessons daily, and all afternoon activities. Other options allow you to combine lessons and activities without accommodation, or select individual elements separately. Flights to Spain are not included in any package — we are happy to advise on flight options once your place is confirmed. This blog post covers what a typical day on our Spanish immersion trip looks like.
Do children need to speak Spanish before they come?
Not at all. Our immersion trips welcomes children at all levels — from complete beginners to teens preparing for GCSE Spanish. Our lessons are designed to meet each child where they are, building confidence gradually through real-life experience rather than formal testing. If your child is willing to have a go, they’ll thrive. Read more about whether this trip is the right fit for your child here.
Where is the language school?
Our Immersion Trips partner with AIL Spanish, a highly rated, Cervantes‑accredited language school with centers in Málaga, Madrid, and Barcelona.
AIL Málaga – Pacifico Campus (Málaga)
C/ Pacífico, 16 Carretera de Cádiz 29004 Málaga, Spain
AIL Málaga – Cañada del Tesoro Campus (Málaga)
C. Cañada del Tesoro, 8 Carretera de Cádiz 29004 Málaga, Spain
AIL Madrid – Retiro Campus (Madrid=
Av. de la Ciudad de Barcelona, 120 Planta baja / Semisótano Retiro 28007 Madrid, Spain
AIL Barcelona – Eixample Campus (Barcelona)
Carrer de Mallorca, 203 Eixample 08036 Barcelona, Spain
These are the schools we partner with for our Spanish Immersion Trips. Both centers are well‑established, highly rated, and experienced in welcoming international students.
I’m interested in your Immersion Trips can you send me more information?
For a detailed itinerary and full pricing for our next Spanish Immersion Trip, please register an interest. Once you’ve done that, you’ll receive all the information you need — including the daily schedule, accommodation details, lesson structure, and travel options.
You can register your interest HERE, and we’ll send everything straight to your inbox.
Do you book the flights also?
If you’d like to travel with us as a group from Liverpool (UK) Airport, we can book the flights for you. When you register your interest, simply let us know that you’d like to join the group travel option and we’ll include you in the flight booking.
If you prefer to travel independently, you’re welcome to arrange your own flights and meet us at the language school.
Do parents travel with their children on the trip?
Parents are welcome to travel independently and spend time in the city while their child is on the programme. For parents who would like to make the most of the trip themselves, we also offer the option to join adult Spanish lessons alongside the children’s programme — a brilliant way to learn together and make the experience a real family adventure.
Day-to-day supervision of children on the trip is provided by Kelly and her team of experienced tutors throughout — parents do not need to be present during lessons and activities. Children staying with a local home stay familiy in Málaga or at the AIL Madrid Student Residence have full board and full supervision provided.
What age are the Immersion trips suitable for?
Our Spanish Immersion Trips are suitable for children and teens aged 6–18 years. The activities, lessons, and cultural experiences are designed to support younger learners who are just beginning their Spanish journey, right through to older students preparing for GCSE and beyond.
If you’re unsure whether the trip is the right fit for your child’s age or stage, you’re always welcome to get in touch — we’re happy to guide you.
Adults Classes
Can I join partway through the course?
Yes — please contact us directly at info@adventuresinspanish.co.uk to arrange payment and get set up.
Where exactly are the classes held?
Beginners: Coleg Meirion Dwyfor, Pwllheli. Improvers: Plas Glyn-Y-Weddw, Llanbedrog.
How much does it cost?
£100 per 6-week course, including all course materials.
What happens if I can’t make a session?
No problem — lesson notes are sent out by email after each class, and we recap the previous lesson at the start of the following week, so you’ll never feel like you’ve fallen behind.
Do I need any Spanish already?
No — Beginners assumes no prior knowledge. If you’ve studied some Spanish before, Improvers is likely the better fit.
Best way to Learn Spanish
What’s the best way to learn Spanish for my holiday?
The best way to learn Spanish for your holiday depends on your learning style, goals, and schedule. However, a great place to start is with a Beginners Spanish course tailored to holidays. This Holiday Spanish Course by Adventures in Spanish is a great place to start as it takes you step-by-step though the basic Spanish you need ready for your holiday to Spain.
Where can I find a Spanish tutor for my child?
Are you looking for a Spanish Tutor who understands the needs of your language-obsessed child? Adventures in Spanish has got you covered. We run free taster sessions every few weeks as we understand the importance of ensuring that the education provider supporting your child is the right one for them!
Our free taster sessions are an opportunity for you to:
- Let your child see if Adventures in Spanish is right for them
- You can observe our teaching style and lesson delivery, seeing first-hand our commitment to creating a safe learning environment
Ready to help your child thrive with their language-learning? Book your free Spanish taster session now! Click HERE for details of our next Free Spanish Taster lesson.
How can I go on a Spanish immersion trip?
Going on a Spanish immersion trip is an excellent way to enhance your language skills while experiencing the culture firsthand. Adventures in Spanish run immersion trips to Spain for learners of all abilities and ages… Visit our website for details of our next Spanish Immersion Trips to Spain. Curious what it’s actually like? Here’s my own story of learning through immersive travel.
How can I learn Spanish in the UK?
Learning Spanish in the UK is a great idea, and there are various approaches you can take to achieve this goal. Here are some of the most effective ways to learn Spanish in the UK:
Language Schools & courses: Enrol in a language school that offers Spanish courses. A great option in the UK is our very own Adventures in Spanish Language school who runs a range of Spanish classes and courses for all ages and abilities.
Private Tutors: Hiring a private tutor allows for personalized learning. At Adventures in Spanish we have experienced native-Spanish speaking tutors who can help you achieve your language-learning goals.
Online Resources and Apps: Channels like Adventures in Spanish provide free lessons and tips.
Immersive Learning: Attending Spanish cultural events, such as those organized by Adventures in Spanish, Spanish film festivals, or Spanish-speaking community events, can immerse you in the language and culture.
Self-Study: Using textbooks, Spanish novels, graded readers, or audiobooks. Adventures in Spanish bilingual children’s books are a great way to help improve your comprehension.
Immersion Programs: Short-term immersion program in Spain or a Spanish-speaking country can significantly boost your language skills. Check out Adventures in Spanish Immersion Programmes here for details of up-coming trips.
Practice with Native Speakers: Tutors with Adventures in Spanish are native-Spanish speakers. If there is a Spanish-speaking community in your area, you can also engage with them through social events or community centers.
Holiday Spanish Course
Is this course suitable for beginners?
It is indeed. It is designed for beginners, but also a great refresher course.
How do I access the freebies?
You automatically receive access to the FREE lessons when you purchase the course – it’s loaded in the course content in Week 7. With regards to the FREE signed copy of my bilingual children’s book “Fernando Baila El Tango” you’ll receive an email asking you to send me the address you would like the book sent to as well as who it should be signed for.
How come the price on the site is in USD $
The price is in USD due tot he Paypal settings. However it converts to GBP £150 which is the advertised price – which is how it will appear (dependent on the conversion rate of the day) in your bank account.
How do I pay?
You can pay with your debit or credit card via Paypal.
Can we purchase it as a family?
You can indeed, yes. In fact I encourage you to take part in it as a family. Learning a language together is a great fun and can really enhance your learning experience.
Is this course suitable for children?
Absolutely, yes! In fact it has been beta tested by my own children (age 11 & 12).