The benefits of speaking fluently in the English language are well known:

English may not be the most spoken language in the world, but it is the official language in a large number of countries.

It is estimated that the number of people in the world that use English to communicate on a regular basis is two billion!

Parents from many walks of life understand these points and have taken the decision to further improve and develop their children’s skills. Many send their children to international schools in order to ensure that their education is conducted in English following a British curriculum, whilst others prefer to supplement the Spanish system with after school activities and tutoring.

Here at MTA we are privileged to support many second language students as they practise and develop their skills. Many go on to take Cambridge Certificates, which are essential for university or work, such as:

• Proficiency (C2)

• Advanced (C1)

• IELTS (B2/C1)

• First (B2)

• PET (B1)

• KET (A2)

• Flyers (A2)

• Movers (A1)

• Starters (A1)

• and more

There are two fundamental activities that every student should consider as paramount importance over the coming months before they sit any language examination.

Exposure and natural practise:

Get them exposed to the language as much as possible; join local groups, football and summer camps. Children naturally make friends and will chat in all languages. It is proven that individuals absorb a foreign language through games, role play and spoken activities. Speaking helps improve fluency and moves knowledge of vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation from your ‘slow memory’ to your ‘quick memory’

Expertise: Ask the school for help. Many schools offer an effective support mechanism for dedicated learning.

The Director – Julie’s experience: My own experience was fantastic, my daughter Grace was given extra Catalan support when she first entered the Spanish system instead of sitting in her English class. This support made a significant difference to her.

Alternatively, if this is not available, enlist the services of native tutors. They will give the polish to more technical and pronunciation issues.