09 Mar 2016
Following a highly successful year for schools in Spain, Cambridge Assessment International Education celebrated the 2014-15 Cambridge Outstanding Learner Awards with a presentation to schools in Spain at the annual NABSS (National Association of British Schools in Spain) conference in Madrid on 3 to 6 March 2016. 18 schools whose students gained Top in the World results over the past year were presented with special commemorative certificates.
We also had the pleasure of hearing from Andrea Mialdea Molina, who won Top in the World for Cambridge International A Level Spanish in the June 2015 examination series. We asked her:
What did you enjoy about the course?
The part I most thoroughly enjoyed was the literature-based section. I have always loved expressing my opinions about themes from books and the three novels presented by the examination board, with such controversial topics, made it truly enjoyable to comment on them.
How do you think taking a Cambridge International A Level in Spanish has benefited you?
I believe this A-level has benefited me greatly due to its diversity. The fact that the mark scheme for the novel-based questions promotes and rewards creativity has given my study of the plots and their background much more depth. I feel like this A-level has not only deepened my discursive skills but also enriched my cultural awareness.
How did you feel when you discovered you had come Top In The World?
It came as a great shock to me to hear the news! I wasn't expecting the award at all. I was actually visiting my grandmother when I found out and within seconds she had managed to call most of my family to tell them about it. I felt truly proud of the effort I had put into the exam when I saw my work had paid off and cried with excitement when I told my friends that night.
What do you plan to do next?
Next year I am going to study in the UK but I plan on maintaining my level of Spanish when I study there. I will try to create or join a society for students interested in Spanish Literature/Language at university, promoting novels that can then be commented on alongside their themes and their importance to our everyday society, as well as sharing with other people the richness that the Spanish language can offer.
Andrea received her award on Monday 29 February from Martin Phelan, Director for Investment at UKTI Iberia alongside 8 fellow winners from International School of Madrid. This proved to be a record year for the school, with 9 awards exceeding previous years’ achievement. It joined Cambridge Assessment International Education in the 1980s.
Nick Mazur, Senior Manager Iberia, Northern & Central Europe said: “Congratulations to Andrea and all of the other Outstanding Learner Award winners in Spain. I know that each school is extremely proud of their winning students and recognises the dedication of teachers and parents in creating a motivating and supportive environment which underpins students’ success".