Our Primary School in Santiago

Expanding curiosity

Primary School (ages 6 to 12) at Chester College in Santiago de Compostela is a key stage where children deepen their learning, broaden their horizons, and develop essential skills for life.

At Chester College, pupils learn in a nurturing and stimulating environment that fosters curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. We make the most of our natural surroundings, encouraging outdoor learning while helping children grow in independence, confidence and enjoyment.

Throughout this six-year stage, pupils consolidate the core knowledge that underpins all areas of the primary curriculum. We encourage them to explore different approaches to problem-solving, work collaboratively, communicate effectively and develop a lifelong love of learning.

What makes our Primary School unique

A bilingual English–Spanish programme

Approximately 50% of classroom learning takes place in English, and the rest delivered in Spanish, taught by qualified English or Spanish native-speaking teachers.
The programme’s flexible design allows new students to join at any stage of Primary, providing the necessary support in English or Spanish depending on each child’s starting point. At this age, children’s capacity for oral language learning is at its peak — a wonderful opportunity to make the most of!
For students who arrive with little or no Spanish, the School provides a gradual language learning pathway that helps them gradually participate in Spanish immersion classes.

Personalised attention

Our small class sizes allow us to get to know each child closely. We identify their strengths, accompany them in areas that need encouragement and support their social and emotional wellbeing.
Personal attention helps students build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging.

Active hands-on learning

Observation, experimentation and both individual and cooperative work are fundamental in this stage, fostering active and meaningful learning. We encourage students to connect what they discover in class with the world around them.

Artistic, musical and theatrical expression

Creativity plays an important role in Primary Education. Through art, music and drama, students develop imagination, sensitivity, coordination and expressive skills — while enjoying the process.

Daily Physical Education

At Chester College, students engage in physical activity every day. Play, movement and outdoor activity are essential for their physical and emotional balance.
Moving, cooperating and challenging themselves are part of their daily routine.

A stimulating multicultural environment

Living and learning alongside classmates from different backgrounds and languages broadens students’ horizons, fosters empathy and enriches their educational experience.

Learning areas in Primary Education

Literacy and communication in English

English is lived, not just learned. At Chester College, pupils develop their English naturally through daily immersion and regular interaction with native-speaking teachers.

We place strong emphasis on both speaking and writing. Pupils learn to communicate clearly, listen actively and express their ideas with confidence. In writing, they develop their creativity, structure and accuracy.

Through guided reading and reading journals, pupils build a lasting love of reading — one of the most important foundations for academic success.

Spanish language development

We develop students’ Spanish language skills across all key areas: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Our goal is for students to express themselves clearly, confidently and creatively, both orally and in writing.

We actively encourage a love of reading by introducing students to a wide range of texts and authors that spark curiosity and expand their understanding of the world. Reading becomes a source of enjoyment, knowledge and personal growth.

This learning is supported, when needed, with targeted support for students who are still developing their Spanish language skills.

Galician language

Students are gradually introduced to Galicia’s local language, gallego, as well as its culture.

Mathematics

Mathematics is taught in a practical and meaningful way. Through hands-on materials and real-life contexts, students explore key concepts such as number, geometry and measurement.

Students develop their ability to reason, understand and apply what they learn, while also building strong fluency in calculation.

Natural Sciences

Pupils explore how the world works: living things, ecosystems, the human body, energy and matter.

Through observation, experimentation and the formulation of hypotheses, they learn to look at reality with scientific curiosity and with respect for the natural world.

Social Sciences

Understanding the world around us —its history, cultural diversity and organisation— is at the heart of this subject area.

Through projects and research-based activities, pupils develop critical thinking, as well as respect for and appreciation of our natural and cultural heritage.

Art and Creativity

Art continues to play a central role. Drawing, painting, sculpture and collage help students express emotions and develop patience, focus and aesthetic sensitivity.

Creativity becomes both a way of thinking and a way of understanding the world.

Music and Drama

Singing, music theory and active listening form part of students’ weekly routine. Through a range of activities, students develop their sense of rhythm, listening skills and enjoyment of music.

Students also have the opportunity to continue learning the violin, integrating it into their broader musical experience.

Drama is an important part of school life. Students take part in at least two productions each year, building confidence, teamwork and stage presence.

German

German is introduced in Grade 1 through a communicative and playful approach. Songs, games and interactive activities help students become familiar with a third language and discover another culture in an enjoyable, age-appropriate way.

For students joining later, the School provides the support needed to help them integrate into the existing groups, whenever this is in their best interest.

Physical Education

Daily physical activity is one of the pillars of our educational approach. Through play, sport and contact with nature, students develop healthy habits, learn to cooperate and strengthen both body and mind.

Religion and Values

We continue to nurture the Christian values that underpin life at the school, including respect, service, generosity and a commitment to personal growth.

Through reflection and age-appropriate experiences, students develop empathy and gratitude, while being introduced to the foundations of the Christian faith in a simple and accessible way.

The subject is taught in a spirit of openness, with respect for each family’s beliefs and traditions.

Supporting Our Students’ Learning

Progress Reports

Three times during the school year, teachers prepare Progress Reports that highlight the child’s achievements, effort and attitude, as well as any areas that may require further attention or reinforcement.
They are a key tool for monitoring progress and supporting continuous development.

Parent-teacher meetings

The teaching team is always available to discuss any relevant aspect of a child’s development.
Chester College actively encourages the involvement of families and a shared educational approach: we all work together in the same direction, for the wellbeing and growth of every student.

Learning Newsletters

Each month, families receive our Learning Newsletters, which summarise the objectives that will be worked on in class and beyond across the different areas.
Their purpose is to strengthen the bridge between home and school, supporting communication about what children are learning and offering guidance for families who may wish to accompany their progress at home.

Next steps

After completing Primary Education, students are ready to begin Middle School with confidence, strong learning habits and solid foundations in literacy, reasoning, communication and social skills.

The next stage expands their autonomy, critical thinking and academic maturity within a supportive and stimulating environment.