Description of project
The Spanish Kitchen elective is delivered through collaboration between Modern Languages, Home Economics, and a local restaurant. Learners take part in a realistic role-play event at the restaurant, simulating roles in restaurant management. This partnership provides valuable insight into careers in hospitality and enhances student engagement through authentic, work-based learning.
Planning process
The course was designed to blend language learning with practical, job-related skills. Time is split between classroom Spanish and kitchen sessions. Early involvement of the restaurant in planning ensured employability skills such as teamwork, communication, and customer interaction were embedded into learning from the outset.
Activities undertaken
In Spanish lessons, learners practised essential phrases for restaurant scenarios, including greetings and taking orders. In the kitchen, they prepare traditional Spanish dishes while practising food-related vocabulary. The elective culminates in a restaurant simulation where pupils apply both language and vocational skills in a real-world setting, mirroring workplace expectations.
Feedback
The Spanish Kitchen elective received overwhelmingly positive feedback from pupils. Comments such as “great fun,” “loved learning Spanish,” and “tasty recipes” highlight their enthusiasm. Pupils particularly enjoy the hands-on nature of the course and the opportunity to practice language skills in realistic scenarios.
Impact
This elective has contributed to an increased uptake of Spanish and has fostered stronger relationships between school departments and the local community. The inclusion of real-life, work-based experiences has enabled learners to link classroom learning to employability skills such as teamwork, communication, customer service, and time management. Practising transactional language in authentic settings enhances their confidence and prepares them for real-world interactions, particularly in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Future plans
Looking ahead, the elective will run as a composite group for S1 and S2, with an increased emphasis on employability outcomes. Plans include involving more local business partners to offer insights into careers in catering, hospitality, and customer service. Learners will further develop transferable skills such as collaboration, initiative, and professionalism, alongside core language learning, all within an engaging and supportive environment.