Spanish Language School Trip to Spain

Day 4: Brush up on Spain’s Royalty

Morning/Afternoon

Take a day trip to El Escorial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an incredibly rich history. It was the residence of the King of Spain and was both a monastery and a palace. Marvel at the impressive architecture and interior design, before taking a tour of the nearby Valle de los Caídos (Valley of the Fallen), where Franco was buried. Learn about the controversy surrounding Franco, the dictator that ruled Spain from 1939 to 1975.

Evening

After dinner, go to the Reina Sofía to stand before Picasso’s most famous painting, Guernica. It was a big political statement, named after the town that the Nazis bombed during the Spanish Civil War.

Day 5: Gaudí’s Genius

Morning

Time to hit Barcelona! Take a minute to admire the indoor forest in Madrid’s Atocha station before heading on and checking into your new accommodation.

Afternoon

Once you’ve settled in, take a second Spanish lesson in the afternoon, followed by a short walking tour of the city. Marvel at the modernist architecture. Admire Gaudí’s iconic chameleon in Park Güell as well as the huge Sagrada Familia, an unfinished Roman Catholic church, a unique vision masterminded by Antoni Gaudí. Originally, another architect was in charge, but when Gaudí took over, he changed the project and would even modify things after construction to completely match his vision.

Evening

Debate over which of Gaudí’s works are most impressive as you visit Pedrera. Take an evening to appreciate the modernist structure whilst watching a night light show.

Day 6: Check the Political Climate

Morning

Hear from a journalist or CUP member on the Catalan separatist movement. The movement fights for the independence of Catalonia from Spain – encourage your students to listen up and ask questions. It’s their chance to get a real feel for the political climate.

Afternoon

Put your Spanish speaking skills to the test. After one final afternoon lesson, give a presentation (in Spanish) about your experiences on the trip.

Evening

It’s your last night, so treat yourself to a traditional dish of Barcelona. You can’t go wrong with a seafood paella!

Day 7: Home Time

Take your transfer to the airport, and spend the flight reflecting on your magical week. It might be home time, but it’s not over. Spain’s vibrant language and rich culture will follow you back to the classroom…and beyond!