Year 11 Spanish

Year 11 Spanish

Language learning at Year 11 will be a mana-enhancing experience that will allow you to access the language and culture of Spanish speaking countries, as well as developing your awareness and connections to others along the way. You will have opportunities to apply these skills with Spanish schools through virtual exchanges. Learning a language will broaden your career horizons and allow you to work anywhere in the world with the skills you have developed through your language learning adventure at Westlake.

Q: Why should I take Spanish? 

A: 

• Learn in a Fun, Social & Supportive Way 

Spanish class is interactive and varied—featuring games, videos, conversations, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re outgoing or more reserved, you’ll build confidence and friendships in a low-pressure, engaging environment. 

• Unlock High-Paying Careers in NZ and Overseas 

Language skills are a major asset in industries like tech, healthcare, education, defence, aviation, and international business—giving you a competitive edge and often leading to better pay. 

• Stand Out in Uni, Apprenticeships & Job Applications 

Being bilingual shows you're disciplined, globally aware, and adaptable—qualities that impress employers, scholarship panels, and selectors. 

• Boost Your Brainpower & School Performance 

Learning a language sharpens memory, focus, and problem-solving—helping you improve in other subjects like Maths, English, and Science. 

• Access Scholarships, Travel & Global Opportunities 

Languages open doors to fully funded exchanges, uni scholarships, and travel adventures—saving money and building unforgettable experiences. 

Common Q&A 

Q: I didn't take Spanish in Year 10. Can I still take 11SPN?

A: Yes. 11SPN is an open entry course. You will be supported by the teacher to catch up on the Year 10 contents at the beginning of the year, but you will need to be committed to putting the extra hours outside of class to keep up with the lesson pace. If you want to select 11SPN as a beginner, the best option is to see Ms Bader in L block office to receive more information and resources to help you prepare.  

Q: What do the assessments look like for this course?

A: You have two in-class assessments and two formal exams. 

• Assessment 1 (in-class): Write short piece(s) of writing in Spanish with resources.

• Assessment 2 (formal exam): Listen / Read passages in Spanish and answer the questions in English. 

• Assessment 3 (in-class): Have conversations using simple spoken Spanish. 

• Assessment 4 (formal exam): Listen / Read passages in Spanish and answer the questions in English. 

Q: What topics are covered in this course? 

A: 

AKO - Learning from each other about free time activities, music and media

Whakawhanaungatanga – School and education

Hauora- Healthy lifestyle and sports

Whakanui - Culture and celebrations - learn about Spanish-speaking countries

We have a shared breakfast with Westlake Girls High School, where students compete in quizzes, games and taste churros. We have cultural activities and competitions.

Q: I am a Spanish background speaker, but my Spanish is not good and I want to take this subject to improve my Spanish. Can I take this course?

If you speak Spanish but have little to no ability in reading or writing, you may select this course for now (pending Head of Department approval). The Head of Department will contact you to confirm your placement.

Q: How does learning Spanish help in careers?  

A: In an increasingly globalised world, knowledge of additional languages and cultures is a considerable career advantage. Learners of Spanish will gain the skill set to navigate communication barriers and cultural differences to foster mutual understanding, care, and respect in the workplace. 

Additionally, Spanish can support and enrich international career opportunities and life experiences. Learning Spanish will help students to embark on a gap year and live, work, and study within Spanish-speaking countries and communities. This provides students with the valuable opportunity to broaden their horizons, build self-confidence, and learn more about themselves. 

Learners of Spanish will be able to experience the pleasure of accessing the art and literature of Spanish culture at a deeper level. This includes being able to enjoy Spanish films, television, music, and books in the original language. They will be able to break down language barriers to extend their own social sphere and grow close personal relationships with a wider range of people.