A-Level Students Inspired by Spanish Study Day at BFI

A group of enthusiastic Year 12 and Year 13 Spanish students from Charters School Sixth Form recently took part in an unforgettable Spanish Study Day at the British Film Institute (BFI) in London. The event, held on Tuesday 11 March, provided an immersive experience that deepened their understanding of both the Spanish language and the historical and socio-political themes they explore as part of their A-level studies.

Organised by the Spanish Department, the study day focused on contemporary films that examine the dictatorships of Francisco Franco in Spain and Augusto Pinochet in Chile - topics directly linked to the Edexcel A-level curriculum. The highlight of the morning was a special screening of The Silence of Others (2018), an award-winning documentary directed by Almudena Carracedo and Robert Bahar. This powerful film sheds light on the lasting impact of Franco’s dictatorship, the ongoing struggle of its victims, and the unresolved quest for justice.

Following the screening, students engaged in an insightful, clip-based presentation that explored themes of political repression, memory wars, and the plight of the ‘disappeared’. Conducted largely in Spanish, the session challenged students to develop their film analysis skills, expand their vocabulary, and reflect on the complexities of Spain’s historical memory.

A particularly special moment of the day was the exclusive Q&A session with individuals featured in the documentary. This rare opportunity allowed students to hear firsthand accounts of resilience and justice, making a profound impact on their understanding of the subject matter.

Ms Matthews, who led the trip, shared her thoughts on the experience: "A Level Spanish students were greatly moved by the testimonies of victims of the Franco dictatorship in Spain and their fight for justice. The event not only enhanced their linguistic abilities but also deepened their appreciation of how history continues to shape modern Spain."

The Spanish Study Day at the BFI proved to be an eye-opening and inspiring experience for Charters students. It provided them with a unique opportunity to engage with history and language in a dynamic, real-world setting - an invaluable complement to their classroom learning.

We look forward to more enriching experiences like this in the future!