The learning of English has become a crucial necessity in Spain, where communicating in this language is no longer just a desire, but a vital requirement. Despite years of effort in the educational system, many Spaniards still feel incapable of expressing themselves fluently. Oliver Rodríguez, spokesperson for The Lemon Tree Education, has pointed out the frustration felt by those who have spent years in classrooms studying, but still only manage to “get by” in English.
According to the National Institute of Statistics, only 14.7% of the Spanish population claims to have a competent command of the English language. This data highlights that learning the language remains a significant challenge, especially in an increasingly globalized context where 17.7% of Spaniards already use it in their professional environment.
Rodríguez argues that the real obstacle does not lie in the complexity of the language, but in teaching methodologies that have traditionally prioritized theory over practice. Although some academies and digital platforms have tried to improve this situation, often they fail to help students move from “understanding” to “mastering” English.
The idea of traveling abroad to learn has emerged as an alternative, but Rodríguez warns that a vacation is not enough to achieve a true immersion in the language. The radical transformation in a person’s relationship with English occurs when they live in an English-speaking environment for an extended period, turning learning into a natural and fluent experience.
Furthermore, educational experiences in English-speaking countries not only contribute to improving language proficiency but also help develop competencies such as autonomy and mental flexibility. Rodríguez emphasizes that learning English should be seen as an opportunity for personal growth, where the language becomes a tool and not just a goal.
As the World English Language Day approaches, the importance of mastering this language becomes more evident, especially in an interconnected world where it is essential for international relations, science, and commerce. Ignoring this need, according to Rodríguez, is an unacceptable risk today.
Therefore, having support to choose educational programs abroad, such as those offered by The Lemon Tree Education, becomes crucial. The agency specializes in guiding families and students through their educational journey, ensuring that each experience contributes not only to language learning but also to a comprehensive transformation that prepares individuals for a borderless world. Thus, learning English in a real environment is not only seen as an added value but as the most effective strategy to integrate the language and confidently face the challenges of the future.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
