Hola, Spanish language enthusiasts! A bit of a controversial one here, since we’ll go against the orthodoxy and what is a common practice in most language schools. But you’ve read it right: we aren’t fans of intensive courses. And here’s why.
We often get requests for intensive courses, especially from beginners eager to really get into the language, and most of the time we turn them down, even if it’d mean quick money. Beginner intensive courses are often a waste of time and money for the student. We used to organise this type of class but then we stopped since we believe it’s not in our students’ interest.
At Hackney Spanish, we understand that embarking on the path of language acquisition requires time, dedication, and a genuine appreciation for the process. Language learning is a practice that unfolds gradually, offering invaluable insights and experiences along the way.
In this post, we delve into the fundamental principles that guide our approach: the importance of investing time in language learning and why we steer clear of intensive courses for most students.
Language learning: a process of discovery
Learning a new language is akin to embarking on an enthralling journey. Just as a traveler needs time to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of a new destination, language learners need time to immerse themselves in the nuances, idioms, and rhythms of a foreign tongue. Travelling is a physical process — language learning is physical too, and it takes time for neural processes to become established.
Research has shown that true language acquisition takes time, allowing the brain to process and internalise the intricacies of vocabulary, grammar, and cultural context. At Hackney Spanish, we believe in fostering a deep connection with the Spanish language, one that unfolds through consistent exposure, practice, and engagement. We want our students to create a connection to the language that extends beyond the classroom.
The myth of quick fixes
In a world of instant gratification, the allure of intensive language courses can be tempting. However, we firmly believe that language learning is a process that thrives on depth and authenticity, not rushed memorisation (like with many apps that promise you’ll learn a language with 15 minutes a day!).
Intensive courses, just like many apps, often promise rapid results, but they can leave learners with superficial knowledge that fades quickly. We understand that true language proficiency goes beyond mere memorisation; it involves understanding the language's structure, its soul, its cultural context, and the joy of meaningful communication.
And for this to happen you need to create solid connections — we help our students achieve these.
The Hackney Spanish approach: no magic Recipes, but fun and consistent Work
At Hackney Spanish, we are passionate advocates of genuine language learning. We believe that there are no magic recipes or shortcuts to becoming fluent in Spanish. Anyone who tells you so is selling you snake oil. Instead, we emphasize the power of consistent practice, interactive engagement, and a supportive community that nurtures your growth.
Our courses are designed to inspire you to explore the language's rich tapestry, from its history to its idiomatic expressions and grammar, in a way that builds lasting proficiency and cultural and linguistic understanding. Our social events will make you feel part of a community.
So are intensive courses always useless?
No. That’s not what we are saying! We don’t believe intensive courses are good value for your time and money when you are giving your first steps. Unless you are willing to move to a Spanish-speaking country and do a month or so of full immersion, thus being completely in the language, we would advise you not to try to do an intensive course. Coordinating an intensive course while you continue to exist in your own language, with work, study, and family commitments, is not the best way to invest your time and money as a beginner.
We do agree to intensive courses when we get requests from students who have already learned the basics and have a certain level of Spanish. Many times life separates a student from a language and an intensive course will be a good way to reconnect with it. But for this to happen the student should have done the slow work before.
I’m a beginner, can’t I do anything to speed up my learning?
There’s lot of you can do to speed up your learning! Most of is free and flexible. We have covered this topic before. You can read all about it here and here (with a focus on listening, the hardest skill to pick up in Spanish).