What age/grade is this for?
This course curriculum covers the core subjects learned by the end of 6th grade in Spain. It is recommended for students starting 7th grade (ESO 1= age 12) up to 10th grade (ESO 4 = age 16). The workload and daily structure between Primary and High School is significant which is why this course focuses only on High School Prep.
Is this course still useful if the English speaking student is not American?
While this course does have some content specific to American culture, most of the foundation subjects will still be useful for those living outside of the EU (such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand). For those living in the UK and Ireland, some of the content regarding communication styles might be redundant, however that is only 10% (one module) taught in the course.
Must my teen study/participate every day?
The course work is self-directed and can be completed during any of the four days (Monday-Thursday) as fits your teens schedule. Fridays are the only day with live participation and highly recommended attending to get the most out of the program. These live sessions will be recorded for both future reference and in case a live session must be skipped.
This seems like a lot of work/time to invest during the summer, is it really necessary?
Yes, it is a good amount of work, but a worthwhile investment before your move. The biggest issue my teens had adapting was the lack of foundational information that their peers had learned in Spanish primary school but is not taught in the US curriculum. If they had started high school with that knowledge, it would have greatly increased their confidence and reduced academic delay. My kids made it through eventually, but it took an extra 1.5 years of stress, lowered self-esteem and private tutors. Much of which could have been reduced if we had only understood both the academic and social challenges they would face cross culturally.
Will there be any Spanish taught?
Short answer, Yes. However this course is designed only to supplement with specialized vocabulary, phrases and grammar hacks. We recommend enrolling in group classes or a private tutor as the best solution to get your teen to at least a B1 level BEFORE arriving to Spain.
We are moving in January or a different part of the year, will this course be held at another time?
Not at the moment. The reason this course is scheduled during the summer is for two reasons. First, the majority of families we have spoken with move to Spain during the summer, starting school in September. Second, summer is also when the teen can focus 100% percent on the course work as not currently attending school in the U.S. If there is enough request for an intensive session to be held during Winter break, we may schedule one.
What is the refund policy?
Due to the digital nature of the course material, once the course is purchased, there is no refund. Remember that even if your moving plans change, you have access to the course material and live session recordings for a year from purchase date. However we understand life happens, please contact us at freshstartspain@gmail explaining your situation if urgent.
I have more than one teen, can they share access to the course?
For the full experience, including participating in quizzes and submitting homework, each student will need their own login. We do offer a 25% discount for more than one student in a family, please contact us for a discount code to use during checkout.
