A Warm Welcome in Barcelona

When Elisha arrived in Barcelona, I could see a mix of excitement and nerves in his expression. He had come all the way from the UK for an intensive Spanish A-Level revision, choosing the Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme (SHIP) as his way to fully immerse himself in the language and culture.

Many international schools opt for the British educational system, including A levels, which influenced Elisha’s decision to choose the Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme.

Introduction to A-Level Qualifications

A-Level qualifications are a cornerstone of secondary education in the UK and many other countries. Cambridge International is one of the examination boards responsible for international A levels. These advanced level qualifications are typically pursued by students after completing their high school diploma, serving as a critical bridge to higher education.

A-Levels are highly regarded for their rigorous academic standards and are recognized by universities worldwide. They allow students to specialize in particular subjects, providing a deep and thorough understanding that prepares them for university-level studies.

By undertaking A-Levels, students not only enhance their knowledge but also develop essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities, which are invaluable in both academic and professional settings.

Understanding the Importance of A-Levels in Elisha’s Academic Journey

For Elisha, a high school student with aspirations for higher education, A-Levels represent a significant step in her academic journey. Recognizing the importance of these qualifications, Elisha understands that A-Levels are not just about passing grades but about demonstrating her academic prowess and dedication to her chosen subjects.

The grading scale for A-Levels includes A*, A, B, C, D, and E as recognized pass grades, which are crucial for university admissions, with most institutions expecting candidates to attain specific pass grades to qualify for entry into their programs. By excelling in A-Levels, Elisha can showcase her ability to handle challenging coursework, making her a more attractive candidate for university admission.

Moreover, the rigorous nature of A-Level courses helps her build a solid foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, all of which are crucial for success in higher education and beyond. This preparation is particularly important for students like Elisha who aim to attend top-tier universities, where the competition is fierce, and academic excellence is paramount.

Living and Studying in a Spanish Home: Insights into Secondary Education

Hosting Elisha in my home meant that his learning didn’t stop after lessons—Spanish was part of everything we did. Mornings started with structured lessons, tailored to his A-Level exam needs. We focused on grammar, essay writing, listening comprehension, and oral fluency, ensuring that he felt confident in every aspect of the exam.

For students pursuing A-Level qualifications, sixth form colleges serve as an alternative to secondary schools, offering specialized pathways and focused study.

The Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme complements Elisha’s school education by providing a practical application of his A-Level studies, enhancing his overall academic experience.

Since it was a one-to-one programme, we worked intensively on the areas he found most challenging. I could see his progress in real-time—his understanding of complex sentence structures improved, and his confidence in speaking grew with each session.

Spanish A-Level Qualification Revision for Paper 2: Written response to works and translation: Mastering *La Casa de Bernarda Alba*

Paper 2 of the Spanish A-Level qualification is a critical component that requires a deep understanding of literary works and strong translation skills. One of the key texts often studied is Federico García Lorca’s La Casa de Bernarda Alba. Here’s how to master this play and excel in your exams.

Spanish A-Level Qualification Revision for Paper 2: Written response to works and translation: Mastering *La Casa de Bernarda Alba*

One of Elisha’s main academic goals during his Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme (SHIP) was to strengthen his knowledge for Spanish A-Level Paper 2: Written response to works and translation, which focuses on the analysis of a film, book, or play. AS Levels are now considered a separate qualification and are no longer adequate for university entrance on their own. His chosen work was Federico García Lorca’s play La Casa de Bernarda Alba, a text that requires a strong understanding of themes, characters, historical context, and literary techniques to achieve a high-grade essay.

We began by reviewing the structure and key elements of the play, ensuring Elisha had a solid grasp of the plot and could confidently discuss the main and secondary characters. Understanding Bernarda’s oppressive rule, the repressed desires of her daughters, and the claustrophobic setting of the household was crucial in preparing him to analyze the play beyond its surface level.

To help him develop a sophisticated, well-structured essay, we focused on breaking down the historical and social context behind the play. We explored how Francoist Spain, gender roles, and societal expectations influenced Lorca’s writing and how this context should be integrated into an essay to provide deeper analysis.

A key part of our revision involved analyzing the major themes, including oppression and authority, the role of women in society, the struggle for freedom, hypocrisy, and appearances. I encouraged Elisha to think critically about these topics and support his arguments with key quotes from the play, ensuring that each quote was analyzed in depth rather than simply included as evidence.

We also spent time on the symbolism within the play, discussing how elements such as the color black, the use of silence, the locked doors, and the house itself contribute to the play’s overall message. Additionally, we examined Lorca’s use of dramatic techniques, including staging, lighting, and dialogue, to understand how they enhance the themes and characters’ emotions.

Beyond content revision, I helped Elisha refine his essay-writing technique, ensuring he was prepared to meet the Spanish****A-Level assessment objectives. We worked on:

• Structuring an essay effectively with a clear introduction, main argument, and conclusion.
• Using formal, sophisticated language with strong connectors for coherence.
• Developing critical arguments that demonstrated depth and original thinking.
• Practicing timed essay responses to build confidence for the exam.

By the end of our intensive revision, Elisha had significantly improved his ability to construct insightful, well-supported arguments. He was able to write essays that not only demonstrated his knowledge of the play but also showcased his ability to think critically and engage with the text on a deeper level.

A Trip to Mercadona: Discovering Spanish Food and Famous Brands

One afternoon, we decided to take a trip to Mercadona, one of Spain’s most popular supermarket chains. It was the perfect opportunity for Elisha to explore Spanish food culture while practicing everyday vocabulary in a real-life setting.

As we wandered through the aisles, he was fascinated by the variety of products—many of which were completely new to him. We talked about traditional Spanish foods, from gazpacho to fresh and tasty fruits and vegetables, and I introduced him to popular Spanish grocery brands.

Elisha’s Excitement Over Cola Cao

One moment that stood out was when Elisha spotted a familiar name—Cola Cao. His face lit up with excitement as he pointed to the iconic yellow and blue tin. “I’ve heard of this before!” he said, thrilled to see it in real life.

I explained that Cola Cao is a beloved Spanish chocolate drink, often enjoyed by children and adults alike. It’s been a household staple in Spain since 1945, known for its rich, slightly grainy texture that makes it different from instant cocoa powders like Nesquik. We talked about how Spaniards dunk “galletas” (biscuits) or “churros” into it for breakfast or a snack, making it more than just a drink—it’s a cultural tradition.

Merienda: A Spanish Afternoon Tradition

On our way back from Mercadona, we decided to have a merienda at home, an essential part of Spanish culture. I explained that merienda is the Spanish equivalent of an afternoon snack, usually eaten between lunch and dinner, around 5 or 6 p.m. It helps bridge the long gap between meals, especially since dinner in Spain is much later than in the UK.

For our merienda, we had some biscuits and, of course, a cup of Cola Cao. As he took his first sip, he smiled and said, “It’s even better than I expected!”

A morning in Dosrius: Exploring Rural Catalonia with Lydia

One of the highlights of Elisha’s immersion experience was our day trip to Dosrius, a charming Catalan town nestled in the hills just outside Barcelona. This trip was extra special because we were joined by Lydia, a local teacher assistant who gave Elisha a deeper insight into the authentic rural life of Catalonia.

As soon as we arrived, Elisha was struck by how different Dosrius felt compared to the bustling streets of London or Barcelona. The tranquility, fresh mountain air, and traditional stone houses painted a completely different picture of Spain—one that most tourists never get to see. Walking through the quiet town, we spoke in Spanish the entire time, making sure he continued his language immersion even outside the classroom.

This visit was not just about exploring a new place—it was an opportunity for Elisha to see another side of Spanish culture, practice Spanish in a natural setting, and engage in real conversations outside the classroom. By the end of the morning, he expressed how much he enjoyed the authentic, relaxed experience and how it gave him a broader understanding of Spain beyond its major cities.

A Fun and Interactive Grammar Class with Laura

Later in the week, we had another dedicated grammar session, this time led by Laura, another of my teacher assistants. This lesson focused on reinforcing verb conjugations and sentence structures, ensuring that Elisha had a strong foundation in essential grammar points.

Laura began by guiding Elisha through some targeted exercises from our grammar books, covering tricky irregular verbs and complex sentence formation. We then moved on to sentence transformation drills, where he had to rewrite sentences using different tenses and grammatical structures—a technique that directly prepares students for A-Level exam tasks.

To add an element of fun, we played a verb game that involved quick-thinking conjugation challenges. Elisha had to form and use verbs correctly in spontaneous responses, which helped build his confidence and fluency under pressure. The interactive nature of the activity made the learning process enjoyable while reinforcing the rules he had been studying.

By the end of the session, Elisha felt much more confident in his ability to apply Spanish grammar correctly and fluently. His improved accuracy and speed in conjugating verbs, forming complex sentences, and using prepositional phrases would prove invaluable in both his written and oral A-Level exams.

These focused grammar lessons with Lydia and Laura provided the final push he needed to refine his skills, ensuring that his Spanish was not only grammatically accurate but also natural and fluid—a key ingredient for success in his A-Level Spanish exam.

A Grammar-Focused Session with Lydia: Mastering Verb Conjugations

One of the most crucial aspects of Spanish A-Level preparation is achieving accuracy and confidence in verb conjugations. To reinforce Elisha’s grasp of Spanish grammar, Lydia, one of my teacher assistants, led a focused session dedicated to verbs.

We started with a structured review of the key tenses required for the A-Level exam, including the preterite, imperfect, future and conditional tenses. Using grammar books and personalized handouts, Lydia broke down the nuances of each tense, providing clear explanations and examples that made tricky concepts more approachable.

To make the session engaging, we introduced a series of verb games that encouraged Elisha to practice conjugations dynamically. From quickfire verb drills to fill-in-the-gap exercises, the session was a balance of structured learning and interactive activities. Lydia also incorporated sentence-building exercises, ensuring Elisha could use the tenses in context rather than just memorizing rules.

The session with Lydia reinforced what he had learned in previous lessons, helping him solidify his understanding of Spanish grammar in a way that felt engaging and practical.

A Day in Mataró: Exploring the Beach, the City, and Gaudí’s First Masterpiece

One of the most enriching aspects of the Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme (SHIP) is the chance to explore hidden gems beyond Barcelona, and our visit to Mataró was a perfect example. Located just 30 minutes from the city, this charming coastal town offered Elisha a mix of history, culture, and local traditions, all while continuing to practice his Spanish in real-life settings.

A Relaxing Morning at Mataró’s Beach and Port

We started our day with a visit to Mataró’s beach, where the golden sand and calm Mediterranean waves created a peaceful contrast to the bustling streets of Barcelona.

Elisha was fascinated by the port area, filled with local fishing boats, sailboats, and yachts. We talked about Spain’s rich maritime traditions and how fishing has long been a key industry for coastal towns like Mataró.

Exploring Mataró’s Historic City Centre

From the beach, we made our way into Mataró’s city centre, where narrow streets and historical buildings painted a picture of Catalonia’s past. As we wandered through the charming Plaça de Santa Anna, we stopped to admire the town’s impressive architecture, discussing the mix of modernist, baroque, and neoclassical styles that shape the city’s aesthetic.

La Nau Gaudí: The Beginnings of an Architectural Genius

One of the highlights of our visit was La Nau Gaudí, the first known work by Antoni Gaudí, Spain’s most famous architect. This hidden gem in Mataró is often overshadowed by his more famous works in Barcelona, but it’s a crucial part of his artistic journey.

Inside the building, we explored the origins of Gaudí’s architectural genius. I explained how La Nau Gaudí was originally designed as a textile factory, showcasing the early structural innovations that would later define his masterpieces like La Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló. Elisha was fascinated by the way Gaudí played with light, space, and natural forms, even in his earliest designs.

We spent time discussing Gaudí’s influence on Catalan Modernism and how his architectural style was deeply inspired by nature and organic forms. This sparked a great conversation in Spanish about how architecture reflects history, culture, and artistic vision.

Spanish Beyond the Classroom: Exploring Barcelona

Afternoons were dedicated to learning outside the classroom, where Elisha had the opportunity to put his Spanish into practice in real-life situations. Secondary schools in the UK provide A-Level programs, which Elisha is now applying in real-life situations during his immersion experience. Universities may accept combinations of A-Level subjects and allow for lower grades in certain instances, providing guidelines on grading expectations. Barcelona became our learning ground—every street, café, and landmark was an opportunity to speak, listen, and experience Spanish naturally.

A Visit to the FC Barcelona Official Store: A Dream Come True for Elisha

One of the unexpected highlights of Elisha’s week in Spain was our visit to the FC Barcelona Official Store, a must-visit spot for any football fan. Knowing how much Elisha loves football, I wanted to surprise him with a stop at the Barça Megastore, located right next to the iconic Spotify Camp Nou stadium.

The moment we walked in, Elisha’s face lit up with excitement. The store was filled with Barcelona’s legendary blue and garnet colors, showcasing everything from official jerseys and football boots to memorabilia signed by some of the greatest players in history.

As we wandered through the different sections, we talked about Barcelona’s football legacy and its importance in Spanish and Catalan culture. Elisha was particularly drawn to the wall of jerseys, where he spotted shirts from current and past legends like Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, and Ronaldinho. He even tested his Spanish skills by asking one of the store assistants about the latest kit designs and customization options.

Paseo de Gracia & Casa Batlló

Our first stop was Passeig de Gràcia, one of the most elegant avenues in Barcelona, lined with luxury boutiques and architectural masterpieces. Elisha was particularly fascinated by Casa Batlló, one of Gaudí’s most iconic works. We discussed its surreal design, full of curved lines and vibrant colours, and he described it entirely in Spanish—a small but rewarding challenge that helped him expand his vocabulary.

La Sagrada Familia

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without seeing La Sagrada Familia. As we admired the towering basilica, we talked about Gaudí’s vision and the cultural significance of the cathedral. I encouraged Elisha to express his thoughts in Spanish, and he impressed me with how well he could describe details and express opinions—a key skill for his Spanish A-Level exam.

Plaza Catalunya & Las Ramblas

Walking through Plaza Catalunya and down the lively Las Ramblas, we took in the energy of Barcelona. Street performers, markets, and small cafés made it the perfect place for Elisha to practice his conversational Spanish in a relaxed setting.

Barrio Gótico: Stepping Back in Time

Exploring the Barrio Gótico was like walking through history. The narrow, cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and hidden plazas made it one of the most fascinating parts of the city. I encouraged Elisha to navigate and ask for directions in Spanish, an important skill for real-life communication.

A Journey Through the Medieval Jewish Quarter: Connecting with the Past

One of the most memorable parts of Elisha’s week in Barcelona was our walk through the medieval Jewish quarter, a route that took us through the heart of the city’s Jewish history. Knowing that this was more than just a sightseeing experience for him—it was a personal connection to his heritage—I wanted to make sure he had the chance to explore the hidden stories within these ancient streets.

We started at Carrer de Sant Domènec del Call, the main street of the old Jewish quarter, where the remnants of a once-thriving Sephardic community still whisper their stories through the stone walls. I explained that “El Call,” as it’s known, was once home to scholars, merchants, and rabbis, and that despite centuries of change, traces of their presence remain.

As we walked, I encouraged Elisha to describe what he saw, felt, and thought—all in Spanish. This wasn’t just a history lesson; it was a way to engage with the language through real experiences.

The Ancient Synagogue: Traces of a Lost Community

Our next stop was the Antigua Sinagoga Mayor, one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. The moment we stepped inside, the air changed—there was a quiet reverence, a sense of stepping into another time.

Elisha was captivated by the Hebrew inscriptions carved into medieval stones, and we read about the community that once gathered there for study and prayer. I asked him insightful questions about Judaism, reflecting on what life must have been like for the Jews of medieval Barcelona. This naturally led to a conversation about the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492, a topic we discussed entirely in Spanish. Elisha’s knowledge about Judaism is extraordinary. He really takes pride of being Jewish and his community, which is admirable.

This was a powerful moment in his immersion experience. He wasn’t just practicing sentence structures and vocabulary; he was using Spanish to explore his identity, history, and culture—something no traditional classroom could offer.

Hidden Symbols and Stories in the Stones

As we continued our route, I pointed out stones with faint Hebrew markings, which had been repurposed in Christian buildings after the expulsion. Some were built into walls in Plaça Sant Jaume, a silent but powerful reminder of Barcelona’s Jewish past.

Elisha was fascinated by these details, and we spent time deciphering the inscriptions and imagining the lives of those who once wrote them. We then wandered into Plaça del Rei, where medieval history blends with modern Barcelona, and we reflected on the endurance of Jewish heritage in Spain.

A Profound Learning Experience

For Elisha, this walk through the Barrio Judío was more than just an afternoon activity—it was a journey into his own roots, guided by the Spanish language. Choosing the right A level subjects is crucial for university admissions and future careers, and for Elisha, Spanish was a key part of that decision. By discussing history, emotions, and reflections in Spanish, he wasn’t just preparing for an exam—he was thinking, processing, and expressing himself naturally in the language.

At the end of the route, he looked at me and said in Spanish, “Nunca imaginé que aprender español me conectaría con mi historia de esta manera.” (“I never imagined that learning Spanish would connect me to my history in this way.”)

That moment summed up everything the Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme (SHIP) is about—learning a language by living it, feeling it, and making it your own.

A Farewell Dinner in Argentona: A Special Evening with Laura and Victor

As Elisha’s Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme (SHIP) came to an end, we wanted to celebrate his progress and experiences with a farewell dinner in a traditional local restaurant in Argentona, a charming town nestled in the hills of El Maresme, just a short drive from Mataró.

Argentona is known for its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and deep-rooted Catalan traditions. It was the perfect place to wrap up an incredible week of learning, cultural discovery, and language immersion.

Joining us for this special evening were Laura, my teacher assistant, and her boyfriend Victor. Their enthusiasm, support, and engaging lessons had helped him improve his Spanish grammar, fluency, and confidence, and this dinner was a wonderful way to celebrate those achievements together.

A Boost in Confidence Before the Exams

By the end of the week, I saw a noticeable change in Elisha. The hesitation he had at the beginning was gone—his fluency had improved, he could express himself with more ease, and he had developed a sense of confidence that would carry him through his Spanish A-Level exam and beyond.

One evening, as we sat at dinner, he reflected on his progress. “I feel like I actually think in Spanish now,” he admitted with a smile. That was the moment I knew he had truly embraced the immersion experience.

Why Immersion Makes the Difference for University Admission

Elisha’s experience with SHIP was more than just exam revision—it was a complete language and cultural immersion. The combination of structured lessons, real-world practice, and living in a Spanish-speaking home gave him a deeper understanding of the language in just a few days.

For any student preparing for their Spanish GCSE or A-Level, this type of immersion is invaluable. It’s not just about passing an exam—it’s about feeling the language, living it, and gaining confidence that lasts far beyond the test.

As Elisha packed his bags to return home, he left with more than just revision notes—he left with a new perspective on learning Spanish, a stronger connection to the language, and the confidence to take on his Spanish A-Level exam with ease.