WHEN YOU LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WORLD TOGETHER...
....SO DO THE KIDS OF SAN PEDRO
OUR SCHOOLS
Since our origins in San Pedro in 1997, our schools have been the leaders in teaching Spanish as a foreign language organization. Today we are proud that most students come from recommendations of past students of our schools.
Six Amazing Locations
Would you choose the vibrant lake-side town of San Pedro, with it's blend of old and new? Maybe the smaller and more tranquil San Marcos on the opposite lake shore? Or San Juan, half-way in-between? Perhaps you want a more lively and active city location such as Antigua or Quetzaltenango? Then there's Lanquin (close to stunning Semuc Champey) for the more adventurous among you!
Discover what's waiting for you, below:
SAN PEDRO SPANISH SCHOOL
Stunning views of the lake and a pure Maya heart up in the town centre and market, with a lively and popular tourist and cafe-bar scene... for many, San Pedro has it all. Our campus is located in extensive lush gardens right on the shores of Lake Atitlan. While studying you can hear the birds singing, see hummingbirds close-up and listen to the waves of the lake surrounded by the spectacular panorama.
SAN MARCOS SPANISH SCHOOL
Just 15 minutes away by boat from San Pedro, but a world of difference....our San Marcos school campus is located in a completely new and tranquil piece of land, close to, but discretely away from the main lanes. A popular village with striking views of the volcanoes, with many excellent restaurants plus a variety of health and spiritual practitioners. Study in our unique thatched 'palapas' and soak up the atmosphere too! Please note: Homestay is not currently available in San Marcos
SAN JUAN SPANISH SCHOOL
For many years San Juan has resisted the tourist development of neighbours San Pedro and San Marcos. What makes this little town a gem for your location study therefore is the totally authentic pace and rhythm, along with being a renowned centre for weaving and ceramic arts, herbal medicine and archaeology. Studying at our all new, tranquil gardens makes this a learning opportunity like no other.
At each school you get the same high quality, experience and friendliness, but with the 'unique flavour'.
Flexible Schedule
Courses start every Monday, although with the flexibility to also start on other days of the week (if necessary), once we've made the reservation. Our program is available throughout the year.
Personalized / Customized Courses
In class there is one teacher for every student to design courses specifically for you. The first day you’ll take a ‘level-test’ exam level to be able to start the course that best suits your needs and abilities. The whole time you're with us, your progress will be closely monitored by teachers. Before leaving your chosen Spanish School, you’ll be awarded a Certificate of Attendance and Grade Sheet with the results of your language and communication skills.
Qualified Teachers
We’re proud of the quality and professionalism of the whole team of people from our four Spanish Schools, and are aware that our teachers are what make the school what it is: a professional, innovative and dynamic learning-centre. To achieve this, teachers use real-life situations, following an interactive methodology that will make you feel an important part of the class.
Volunteer Program
Whether as a student of San Pedro, San Marcos or San Juan Spanish School you will have the opportunity to participate in our volunteer program with the Niños del Lago project either indirectly or, if you choose the Combined Course options you can go to San Pedro and directly help or support the children and youth of our community in the areas of education, health and nutrition. You can also participate in other community projects such as agriculture, construction etc. It can be an important part of your experience in Guatemala, and to have chance to make a positive impact in the community.
Our schools support the values of dignity, prosperity and well being. By studying with us you're directly helping to provide the children of Lake Atitlan with Heath, Nutrition and Education.
Activities and Excursions (subject to local availability)
You’ll find that participating in the activities and optional excursions are an ideal complement to the Spanish language courses. Organised by the Coordinator of Activities, you can practice what you learn in class.
From Monday to Friday you can participate in:
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Conversation Club: This gives you even more chance to improve your fluency. With the guidance of a teacher you can interact with students of similar levels. You need to consult your teacher to find the right conversation club class to take part in, according to the levels of the European Common Framework for Languages, A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2.
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Movies and documentaries: Today, it is obvious that part of learning to speak a language is to also learn how the culture of that language works in communication between its speakers.
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Conferences/Discussions: Another way to be exposed to the Spanish language is to listen to and ask questions at conferences on topics of everyday life in Guatemala, such as the history, culture and social issues of today.
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Salsa Classes: This is a great opportunity to get together with other students to enjoy a little time relaxing, having fun and learning the Latin American rhythms of salsa; its music, dance and its body movement co-ordination.
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Outdoor/Weekend Activities: During the weekend you can participate in a variety of activities organized by the school or you can take other options which we offer. Your teacher or school program co-ordinator will advise about the availability of activities like hiking a nearby volcano, visiting Chichicastenango market or other tours and activities. Participating will give you chance to both understand more from your study-visit, as well as chance to put your new language skills into action!
Combined Courses
Don't forget: for those of you who wish to increase your Guatemala, language and cultural experiences, you can also combine your stay in any two of our School or partner-school locations, with the same quality of education; San Pedro, San Marcos or San Juan Spanish Schools (or in Quetzaltenango or Antigua): each a different heart-beat of the Maya World. Discuss with your teacher or our administrative team who can work out the best options for you, depending on your timing and interests.
