Program Reviews

This Easter, I had the opportunity to spend an unforgettable week in Dosrius, Barcelona, as part of the SHIP immersion programme with Spanish Express. From the first moment I arrived at Mónica’s house, I felt instantly welcomed. Her warmth, the kindness of her parents who live upstairs, and the playful company of her golden retrievers, Rumba and Samba, made me feel right at home.

Sharing the experience with my classmate Paola made it even more special. We both attend David Game College in London, where Mónica is our Head of Spanish. Seeing her outside of school was a revelation — the way she balances structure with fun is inspiring. She’s strict when needed, always practical, and honestly, one of the most fun people to be around. Over the week, she truly became one of us.

Our days were filled with academic focus — we revised all the key content for A-Level Spanish. We worked through our IRPs, practised Paper 3 themes, and tackled Paper 2 with a deep dive into El laberinto del fauno and Como agua para chocolate. We also sharpened our translation skills, which was a real highlight, especially with Mónica’s expertise as a qualified translator.

Alongside Mónica, we were also taught by Eva and Pilar during the academic year in London, and the different teaching styles brought a great balance to the sessions. The pace was challenging but motivating, and I left feeling genuinely prepared for my exams in June.

But the experience in Barcelona wasn’t just about studying. The cultural side was just as enriching. We explored the Maresme Coast, visiting quaint towns like Argentona and Mataró — the latter completely surprised us with its charming old town, beach, and port.

Barcelona, of course, was a major highlight. We visited iconic landmarks like Casa Batlló, Park Güell, and the Sagrada Familia. We strolled through the Gothic Quarter, down Las Ramblas, and all the way to the port and La Barceloneta. These trips added another layer of immersion — learning the language while living the culture.

Looking back, this week was so much more than a revision course. It was a chance to grow academically, explore a beautiful region of Spain, and bond with amazing people. If you're serious about your Spanish A-Levels and want an experience that goes far beyond the classroom, SHIP is the way to go.

Spending the Easter holidays at Mónica’s home in Dosrius, Barcelona, has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my A-Level Spanish preparation. From the moment I arrived, I felt completely at home. Mónica, her lovely parents who live upstairs, and her two adorable golden retrievers, Rumba and Samba, welcomed me with open arms (and paws).

I shared the experience with my classmate and friend Jessica — we both study A Levels at David Game College in London, where Mónica is also our Head of Spanish. As an Edexcel examiner, she knows exactly how to guide us through the speaking exam, and her insights during the week were incredibly helpful.

Throughout the week, we focused on revising our IRPs and all the key themes for Paper 3 Speaking. We also reviewed Paper 2 in depth, covering the film El laberinto del fauno and the novel Como agua para chocolate. On top of that, we worked extensively on translation skills, which was especially useful since Mónica is also a qualified translator.

Our lessons were dynamic and intensive, with Eva and Pilar also contributing to our learning during the academic year in London. The blend of academic rigour and real-life immersion made a huge difference. From personalised feedback to everyday conversations in Spanish, I feel way more confident and fully prepared for the June exams!!!

On the cultural side, we’ve been beyond busy with multiple excursions around Mónica’s area, the stunning Maresme Coast. From Dosrius and Argentona to Mataró, we explored it all. Mataró, in particular, took us by surprise — a lovely coastal town with a charming town centre, a lively beach, and a picturesque port.

And of course, no visit to Catalonia would be complete without exploring Barcelona city centre. We visited iconic landmarks like Casa Batlló, Park Güell, and the breathtaking Sagrada Familia. We also wandered through the Gothic Quarter, strolled along Las Ramblas, and followed the route all the way to the port and the beaches of La Barceloneta.

What made this experience even more special was seeing Mónica outside of the classroom. She’s a perfect blend of being structured and practical, but also incredibly fun. It was lovely to see her become one of us during this trip — sharing stories, laughing with us, and making the whole experience unforgettable.

This week has not only improved my Spanish skills but also given me lifelong memories. I can’t recommend the SHIP programme enough!

I had an amazing time with Spanish Express! I spent three weeks learning Spanish through their Homestay Immersion Program, and it couldn’t have been better. I started in Barcelona with Mónica, then went to Valencia with Pilar, and finished in Cádiz with Óscar. Each teacher was fantastic, making me feel right at home while helping me improve my Spanish. The best part was living with the teachers, which really immersed me in the language and culture. From exploring cities to enjoying local food, it was an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to learn Spanish in a fun way!

My son Tom spent two weeks staying at Pilar’s beautiful house near Valencia. He hadn’t spoken Spanish for a little while, but was soon right back, loving the language and thoroughly enjoying socialising and speaking with all of Pilar’s friends and family. There were lots of visits into the city and to nearby tourist attractions over the two weeks, as well as barbecues and paella making evenings. Tom made some fabulous memories on this trip.
Pilar was an amazing host and Tom will definitely be keeping in contact with her. Really hope to see you soon!

I recently completed a Spanish Homestay Immersion with Spanish Express, and it was an unforgettable experience. I spent one week in Valencia with Pilar, where I learned Spanish alongside Christine from the U.S. We enjoyed lessons on Pilar's terraces, explored Valencia’s historic center and the Albufera, and savored authentic paella.

The next three weeks were in Barcelona with Mónica, her parents, and their two Golden Retrievers. My lessons combined formal sessions and on-the-go learning as we visited iconic sites like the Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell, and Casa Milà. We used workbooks and played Spanish games, making learning both fun and immersive. The experience culminated in a surprise flamenco show arranged by Mónica.

This program greatly improved my Spanish and deepened my understanding of Spanish culture, history, and gastronomy. It was an enriching experience that I’ll treasure as I continue my studies. A heartfelt thank you to Mónica and Pilar for making this journey so special.

My adult daughter (just a little over college age) and I recently had the privilege to spend a week with Pilar at her home in Gilet (located outside of Valencia). During our week there, Pilar cooked us delicious meals, set aside structured time for our lessons, and even managed to have enough energy to allow me to practice my Spanish conversation skills "just one more time" even late at night. Small cultural excursions were also part of the “package,” and one of our favorites was when Pilar included us in her family’s celebration of the San Juan Festival. This festival happens once a year, on the beach. It is time spent with families and friends, so of course, there is food and eating. So special, as one can see the beach lined with mini bon fires that individual families have created. Then at the precise moment of midnight, everyone goes into the sea and jumps over seven waves while asking for seven wishes. What a beautiful tradition that my daughter and I were able to be a part.

I’m home again after a fantastic week in Dosrius, Catalonia. I had high expectations and they were fulfilled. I really like the idea of homestay. You study and you learn a lot just to be in a family. The living by Mónica, her parents and two Golden Retrievers was pleasant and lovely in all ways. Fresh living in a beautiful and calm environment. Good and healthy food. We did some excursions together. I borrowed a bike and learned to know the surroundings and I also followed Mónica to the gym even with swimming pool.

When my son was 14 it was obvious that he needed some help with his Spanish, but we wanted to consider something different to a weekly tutoring session. Something that would challenge him, make him grow as an individual, and something (obviously!) that would help with his Spanish. And boy did we find that! Last year he went from the UK to Valencia for a week, this year Barcelona - both as homestays. And it has been the making of him. Not only did he get to explore growing up in a safe, nurturing and fun environment away from mum and dad, but he also got to learn and practice his spanish in spanish homes, schools, shops etc. He loved the fact that he got to travel on his own (we dropped him off, they picked him up directly from the airport) and that he got to try new foods and meet new people. Every day was a learning day - from just learning as you go/out and about, to structured lessons. Without a doubt I would recommend this to any child. Even better, I think he would recommend it. He is sitting his GCSE's as I type this, and I have no doubt that his Spanish mark will be much improved - and he is even considering doing it for A level.

My experience in the immersion course at the home of Professor Pilar Martínez in Valencia, Spain was exceptional and very enjoyable. The classes exceeded my expectations , and the cultural visits were wonderful from the get go. Professor Pilar is an excellent teacher, her personalized approach and passion for language teaching made learning easy and enjoyable. I wholeheartedly recommend this immersion course , especially with professor Pilar as the host and a great professional teaching Spanish.

Spanish Express is the real thing. They went above and beyond to support me in my desire to learn Spanish in the context of intimate interaction with the people and culture. I couldn't be happier with my 2 week immersion in Spain and I'm already planning another adventure with them next year.
I’m considering Burgos or Sevilla and maybe another country option altogether.
I know that I have so much more to learn and immersion is both effective and enjoyable!
My stay was with Oscar in Cadiz: he’s a fantastic teacher, good-hearted, smart and so patient! I will keep him close to my heart forever!