A school in Taunton has established exciting new European links through a pen pal scheme with a school in Spain.
Year 10 students at Monkton Wood Academy have been paired with students from IES Cartuja, based in southern Spain, giving students the chance to develop international friendships while enhancing their language skills.
Although there are currently no plans for an exchange visit, both schools are keen for students to meet virtually via Zoom, helping to strengthen the connection and bring the partnership to life.
The pen pal scheme offers students a valuable opportunity to practise Spanish in a natural and meaningful way. In their first letters, Monkton Wood students shared personal information about themselves and their families, as well as insights into life as a teenager in England.
In return, Spanish students introduced themselves and shared cultural aspects of teenage life in Spain, including favourite football teams, music, hobbies, Christmas and New Year traditions, and how they like to spend their free time.
Donna Lees, Head of Modern Foreign Languages at Monkton Wood Academy, said: “This pen pal scheme is a fantastic opportunity for our students to use Spanish in a real-life context while learning about another culture.
“The enthusiasm shown by both our students and those in Spain has been wonderful, and we hope this partnership continues to grow through virtual meetings and ongoing communication.”
