Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth, Connection, and Achievements

As the year ends, I reflect on the incredible journey we’ve had with In Spanish in 2024. From the goals we set at the start of the year to the recognitions we’ve received, this has been a year of growth, connection, and deep gratitude.

Looking Back at Our 2024 Goals

At the beginning of the year, we set three ambitious goals for In Spanish:

1. Parent Involvement Program: We launched regular Spanish classes for parents, enabling them to join their children’s language-learning journey. Seeing parents practise vocabulary at home and participate in cultural activities alongside their children has been incredibly rewarding. It’s a reminder that language learning can be so much richer when it’s a family affair.

1. Diversifying Cultural Classes: This year, we introduced lessons focusing on specific aspects of Spanish-speaking cultures. We held vibrant cultural events each term, from Carnaval to Día del Amigo and Día de Muertos. These events brought our community together and allowed our students to experience the richness of Hispanic traditions beyond the classroom, fostering meaningful and contextual learning.

1. Incorporating Cutting-Edge Teaching Techniques: We redefined how our students engage with Spanish by integrating innovative tools like language-learning apps and interactive online platforms. Techniques like comprehensible input and contextual learning have made vocabulary acquisition more meaningful and fun. The feedback from our students has been phenomenal, and we’re excited to continue exploring new methods in the coming years.

Recognition for Our Passionate Work

2024 has also been a year of recognition, validating the hard work and passion of our team:

• APAC Insider Award: Our children’s classes were honoured for their educational excellence, celebrating our commitment to nurturing a love for language and culture in the youngest members of our community.

• Featured on Twinkl’s Blog: Being recognised as one of the top choices for learning Spanish in Australia was another proud moment. Twinkl’s recommendation reminds us of our impact on the educational space.

Personal Highlights

This year wasn’t just about professional achievements. I embraced a new challenge: learning to play the guitar. While I’m still a beginner, I’ve started incorporating simple songs into our classes. It’s a joy to see children’s faces light up as we sing and learn together in a fun and engaging way.

Another special moment was hosting our end-of-year celebration with the teachers at my home. Sharing delicious food and traditions from each teacher’s home country reminded me of the incredible cultural diversity within our team. These moments of connection strengthen the bond we share and inspire us to continue building a welcoming and inclusive community.

Thank You and Happy New Year

As we step into 2025, I want to thank everyone who has been part of In Spanish’s journey this year: our students, parents, teachers, and community. Together, we’ve built more than just a school; we’ve created a space where language and culture come to life.

May 2025 bring joy, growth, and endless opportunities to learn and connect. To everyone, I wish you a very Happy New Year! – or as we say in Spanish, ?Feliz A?o Nuevo!