¡Viva Aquinas!

Aquinas Grammar has just been awarded the coveted ‘Instituto del Año 2008’ by the Ministerio de Educación, España for its promotion of learning and teaching of Spanish both within Aquinas and the local community.

Aquinas was one of 5 schools awarded the prestigious title after submitting a comprehensive application form and subsequently a visit from Judges from the Ministerio de Educación, España.

To read further comments please access:

http://www.mepsyd.es/exterior/uk/es/consej/es/promocion/concursos.shtml

The Spanish Department is very proud of this award which is reflective of the commitment, enthusiasm and teamwork which is apparent not only within the Department but also throughout the school towards promoting, enhancing and integrating Spanish Language and Culture into the curriculum. However our truest reflection of this is our students. The passion demonstrated by our students towards the learning of Spanish is incredible and their level of ability, both orally and written is second to none. Without our students, this award would not have been possible!

Apart from the status and a £500 prize donated by Banco Santander , the Department was awarded a large bank of resources, 2 Online Spanish Courses for non-specialists with a view to introducing Spanish and the opportunity to promote Spanish on a larger scale both within the community and beyond.

Aquinas will also represent Northern Ireland Schools at an International Spanish Conference to be held in Belfast in November. Aquinas is also in negotiations with La Tasca, Belfast, Banco Santander and Ferrovial with a view to formally develop links in order to promote and enhance the learning and teaching of Spanish.

Click on either of the pictures below to view pictures from the Spanish Award entry and the prize giving ceremony.

Gallery 1

Gallery 2