This week, the Wilson Pitch marquee was filled with the rich aromas of saffron, paprika, and sizzling chicken as 65 Spanish learners from the Year 10 and Year 12 took part in a vibrant Paella masterclass. Designed as both a cultural enrichment activity and a well-earned treat following exam week, the session was conducted largely in Spanish, encouraging students to engage with the language in a fun, immersive setting.
The morning began with a live cooking demonstration and a brief history of paella, introducing students to a traditional paella Valenciana. Students then paired up to cook their own paellas from scratch, following a Spanish-language recipe.
One student, initially daunted, exclaimed, “I can’t read that… oh no wait, I can!” – a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the day: learning through doing.
Some adventurous pairs even attempted to create the prized socarrat – the crispy, caramelised layer of rice at the bottom of the pan, considered a delicacy in Spanish cuisine.
Despite a few nerves at the start, every student got stuck in, chopping, stirring, and seasoning their way to a delicious homemade lunch.
The event not only deepened their appreciation for Spanish culture but also gave them a confidence boost in their language skills. As they look ahead to next year’s studies and exams, the students left the marquee not just full of paella, but full of enthusiasm.
