Spanish is spoken by more than 422 million people around the world. It is the official language in 20 countries and widely spoken in more than 30 countries or territories.
Research has shown that very young children are more than capable of learning two different languages simultaneously. Those who are exposed to a second language in their early years are more likely than older children to attain a native-like pronounciation and fluency in that language.
It is also recognised that learning a second language in early childhood boosts brain power and enhances cultural development.
12/03/07
Modern foreign language lessons are to be compulsory for the first time in England's primary schools.
Education Secretary Alan Johnson backs the recommendation of a review by Lord Dearing that all children should learn a language from the age of seven.
This should happen by 2010, as part of the next curriculum overhaul.
"I want languages to be at the heart of learning," Mr Johnson said.
"The earlier you start learning a language the better. Making language study compulsory from 7 to 14 will give pupils seven years to build up their knowledge, confidence and experience."
By that time, he hopes they will have built up "a critical mass of knowledge" and a love of languages.
"The rest of Europe is starting at seven, it's about time we did."
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14/12/06
"Studying a language could become compulsory for all primary school pupils in England, following a review by government adviser Lord Dearing.
Announcing his interim findings he said: "For languages: the earlier the better".
Education Secretary Alan Johnson, who commissioned the review, said: "The younger they start learning a language the easier it can become, which is why we want every Key Stage 2 pupil in the country to have the opportunity to study a foreign language by 2010."
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