Hannah – Spanish A-level course

Hannah-  AS level student who went to Madrid in Easter for a one week A-level Revision course.

“I was very nervous before my arrival in Madrid and on my first day I was just as nervous but I expected it to all be ok in the end and it was. The course definitely met my expectations; lessons were really good and interesting. The staff and teachers were amazing and so friendly – always willing to help, even if we tested their patience sometimes! The school was situated right in the centre of the city, with convenient metro connections and right next door to the beautiful Retiro Park.

The worst part (if you can call it that) of the course was the first day. I arrived at the home of my host family and was sat on my bed feeling very home sick and kept thinking, “Why am I doing this?”. The next day at college my question was answered: I met so many really nice people and we have since become great friends, the feeling of homesickness was gone.

The college social activities were well arranged – we went to a bar around the corner on the first night – which was a good chance for everyone to get to know each other and relax a little.

All of the students were amazing – I made more friends than I ever imagined it would, all with such interesting backgrounds, we spoke and laughed for hours!

I have a very close circle of friends back home which I thought I would miss a lot, but apart from the first day I was too busy making new friends and having the best time of my life to miss anyone.

I felt very safe in Madrid, it is a stunning city, quite expensive to eat out but there are some reasonable places around. The local people are very friendly and always willing to help. El Palicio nightclub was one of the best I have ever been to –especially as Tuesday was student night. As you enter the club they give you a badge saying where you’re from, which means the club is a great place to meet people. Retiro Park is also a great place to socialise, we spent most of the day there sunbathing and talking for hours.

My host family were lovely. My room and the apartment was great and in an ideal location, close to the metro station and the college. I even might be going back out to stay with her this summer because I got on with her so well.

CESA were really good, thanks for all the help!

I would definitely recommend this course to anyone who is outgoing and wants lots of laughter and a great experience. I can honestly say that my week spent in Madrid was one of the best weeks of my life. It has changed my opinion of things and opened my eyes to how many nice people there are out there just waiting for you to meet them!”