Student Manual

Content

1. WELCOME TO CASTILE
2. NEW PRODUCTS
3. CASTILLA, AN INTENSE LEARNING EXPERIENCE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
3.1 Objectives, resources and organization. Strengths

3.2 Personnel: departments and managers. The teachers.

3.3 The school – the San Nicolás Campus
4. ACCOMMODATION
5. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
6. LEVELELES, METHODOLOGY AND WEEKLY SCHEDULE
7. THE COURSE
8. ARRIVALS
9. QUALITY IN CASTILE
guarantee
9. SERVICES, COMPLAINTS AND OTHER PROCEDURES
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS

1. Welcome to CastiLa

Dear student:

Welcome! Granada!

As you know, all our work is focused on ensuring the satisfaction of our students in the three key aspects of your stay: classes, activities and accommodation.

This manual is intended to be a useful tool for our students. We welcome your suggestions for improvement.

We hope you improve your Spanish and have a great cultural and learning experience and enjoy your stay in Granada.

- CastiLa, Granada, 2022

2. Castile 2024-2025

CastiLa is heading towards its 40th anniversary in the Albaicín, San Nicolás area, with the optimization of its facilities for classes, activities and accommodation in Casa San Nicolás.

The surrounding area boasts a public library, schools, cultural centers, cafes, terraces, markets, and top-notch public services (e.g., a health center). The area is distinguished by its authentic and cosmopolitan atmosphere, unique urban landscape, and unparalleled views.

The main headquarters of CastiLa It is located in the House of Saint Nicholas, a restored typical house with an office, classrooms, a courtyard, and views of the Alhambra.

CastiLa It also uses other classrooms in nearby partner centers, as well as various selected spaces for classes and activities, in order to fulfill the concept we call the "outdoor classroom" which is essential to our teaching strategy: learning (and practicing) inside and outside the classroom.

The apartments and studios are located in Plaza de San Nicolás, Callejón de las Campanas, 1, and C/ Buensuceso, 21. Host families and other residences are also within walking distance, allowing guests to appreciate the unique character of this area. Albaicín en Granada It has a unique atmosphere, ideal for living and learning Spanish, a place that facilitates everyday cultural and social experiences.

Likewise, in 2024 CastiLa It has boosted its online presence with a learning platform that will facilitate distance learning, language practice, and self-study. Quite a challenge for CastiLa in the next years.

https://castila.es/es/clases‐online/

3. Castila, an intense learning experience inside and outside the classroom

3.1 OBJECTIVES, instruments and organization. Strengths

Castila's objective is the complete satisfaction of its students in the three main experiences of their stay: courses, accommodation and activities.

To achieve this, our working tools translate into our strengths:
Small classes (max. 6 students per group)
Balanced combinations of classes and cultural activities
Accommodation standards, the highest available in Granada.
The location in the Albaicín, the old town in the heart of Granada, awarded as a “World Heritage Site” by UNESCO.

In other words, we provide thousands of opportunities to practice Spanish and enjoy a fulfilling cultural experience. It's no surprise that 40% of our students extend their course or return in the near future.

As one student said in 1999: “Castila, an intensive learning experience inside and outside the classroom.” Ally Ladha, USA. “Castila is a world unto itself.” Agnès Christeler, Switzerland.

All of this is made possible under the supervision of a highly qualified team, honed through years of experience, who share a common goal and the enthusiasm to achieve it. Our aim is to make your stay here as smooth as possible so that you can successfully meet the objectives you expect from this course.

ACCOMMODATION AND 24-HOUR EMERGENCY TELEPHONE

Natalia/Miguel, +34 626 90 51 58

COORDINATOR

Each group is assigned a coordinator, responsible for determining the class level, planning group activities, identifying goals, deciding on and coordinating curricular activities, contacting other groups, and so on. They also resolve any doubts, questions, or problems within the group. They serve as the liaison between the students in the group and all the departments responsible for student well-being.

The coordinator is always a teacher with extensive experience.

PROFESSORS

In the selection of teachers in Castile, our basic requirements include:

College degreeIn Spain, a minimum of 5 years of university;
Teaching certificate (CAP or current teaching qualification)
Un training seminar in Castile with both academic and practical aspects where the style, teaching method and general work of
La personality and the candidate's attitude are also
Castila's teachers and staff attend the Programs of

Training with the support of the Center.

3.3. HEADQUARTERS

3.3.1. CastiLa at the House of Saint Nicholas

One of the strongest points that makes it different CastiLa is their situation in the AlbaicínThe distinction of learning Spanish in one of the most unique neighborhoods in the world (a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994), in a traditional Granada house with a garden and views of the Alhambra, make CastiLa a special and unique option.

House of Saint Nicholas IN SUMMARY

Buildings:

300 m².

Patio:

100 m². Relaxation area under the shade of the trees or the pergola.

Location in the city:

City Center. One of the city's most emblematic and prestigious neighborhoods, declared a "World Heritage Site" in 1995.

Eyeglasses:

AlhambraSierra Nevada and the rest of Albaicín From the tower. From the other rooms: Alleyways and squares Albaicín.

classrooms:

6, equipped with computers, screens and internet.

Heating and air conditioning.

Library (Vera bajo – 1.3.2.)

900 titles. Agreement with the Municipal Library of Albaicín.

Student Rooms:

TV (40 channels), Internet and reading and self-learning rooms.

Teaching materials:

Online resources, books, video and audio for Spanish as a Foreign Language (ELE) for all levels of Spanish.

Other services for students.

Wi-Fi, study rooms and patio.

Film Library:

250 titles in Spanish and bilingual.

Courtyard, classrooms and resources available for students:

From 9: 00 to 18: 00.

Collection of Spanish music: 6500 titles

Pool: Access to private swimming pools in host families.

3.3.2. Library service and online learning resources

Library.- With this service, Castila offers students the opportunity to explore Spanish literature. We have selected a wide range of books that we will recommend based on their individual level.

-Beginners: stories with simple language.

-Intermediate: short stories by contemporary Spanish and Latin American authors. Novels adapted for foreign students.

-Advanced: significant novels of Spanish literature, both contemporary and classic.

The recommended books can be found in the school library or the municipal library of AlbaicínBooks can be borrowed with a student card. The municipal library is open from 14:45 pm to 20:00 pm. According to the school library's schedule, books can be borrowed and returned on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays during break time. Please take the books to the reception desk. A €10,00 deposit is required before borrowing books, film scores, or other materials. This deposit will be refunded upon return of the book.

For more information, ask Miguel or Natalia.

Online resources. From the academic area we intend to make available to Spanish students different resources to practice Spanish in different formats, channels and levels. In this page (You will find recommendations for activities from our own website and other websites.)

https://castila.es/es/cursos-online/

3.3.3. Other services

AIRPORT PICKUP: Castila has a transfer service that can help enhance your stay in GranadaStudents can book their round-trip transfers from Granada (GRX), Malaga (AGP) and Almería (LEI). We also arrange for staff to take children to the airport as unaccompanied minors.

COMPANY INTERNSHIPS:

Want to learn Spanish while gaining work experience? We can arrange an internship program for you at one of the companies in Granada, from 4 to 24 weeks. For terms and availability, please contact Antonio.

EXCHANGE: Once you're at the school, we can help you find Spanish speakers based on your preferences for an exchange program. This will give you more opportunities to practice your Spanish and gain a different perspective on Spanish/Granadan culture. You can spend free time together or we can invite you to participate in extracurricular activities organized by the school.

AU PAIR: We offer a selection of families for an au pair program.

STUDENT CARD: Students receive a student card on the first day, which can be used to gain access and discounts for various services at Granada:

Internet / Wifi: 24 hours at the school.
Payment: Students can send money directly to the
Arab baths: students can choose between two different establishments, both located in the center of the
Aquaola: a wonderful and fun water park open in
Eupopcar: discounts for renting a
Banco Popular: discount on exchange commission fees
Shows: Discounts on tickets for all shows that offer student rates
Library: facilities for lending books (there is one near the school, in San Nicolás square)

RECEPTION AND LIBRARY: Open from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can contact the head of studies at the school from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with any questions or concerns you may have about your course.

Free Wi-Fi is available at all times for our students. We also have computers available for students to use.

TYPES OF ACCOMMODATION

If you need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

4 accommodation

At Castila, we consider accommodation essential for the complete satisfaction of a stay so far from home.

How do we measure quality in accommodation? We offer:

Accommodation within a maximum of 15 minutes walk of the
Heating and air

Who else could offer a restored 17th-century building in the heart of Granada?

The main objective is to create the best possible conditions for our students. Our accommodation manager has extensive experience in matching students with Spanish host families or other students sharing the same accommodation. For this procedure, please refer to our General Terms and Conditions: points 3 (3.2, 3.6, and 3.7) and those relating to families (4.1 and 4.2). Changing accommodation is only permitted with the Administration's authorization.

Studios and individual apartments (with one or two bedrooms) in buildings managed by CastiLaIt is the most popular standard accommodation with privacy.
In a shared apartment with other students from Castile.

With two bedrooms.
Location: in the Albaicín or in the city center. Never more than a 15-minute walk from the school.
Facilities: bedding, kitchen, refrigerator, washing machine, TV, WIFI.

bis In a shared apartment with SpaniardsFor students from Castile who prefer to live in a completely Spanish environment, we can offer the option of a room in a shared house with friends and acquaintances of the staff. This preference must be indicated on the application form. The price is the same as for a shared apartment with other Castilian students. Limited availability.
In Spanish familiesFor a complete immersion with one of our trusted, vetted families. Close to the school (maximum 20-minute walk). Due to the nature of this type of accommodation and to maximize contact with the family, we recommend full board.

6. LEVELELES, METHODOLOGY AND WEEKLY SCHEDULE

6.1 How to progress in CastiLa?

6.1. LEVELELESY SELF-ASSESSMENT GRID

		A1	A2	B1	B2	C1	C2
GRASP	Auditive comprehension	I recognize very basic words and expressions that are commonly used, relating to myself, my family and my immediate environment when speaking slowly and clearly.	I understand phrases and the most common vocabulary on topics of personal interest (very basic personal and family information, shopping, place of residence, employment). I am able to grasp the main idea of short, clear, and simple notices and messages.	I understand the main ideas when speech is clear and normal and deals with everyday matters that occur at work, school, during leisure time, etc. I understand the main idea of many radio or television programs that deal with current affairs or matters of personal or professional interest when the articulation is relatively slow and clear.	I understand lengthy speeches and lectures and can even follow complex lines of argument as long as the topic is relatively familiar. I understand almost all television news and current affairs programs. I understand most films where standard language is spoken.	I understand long speeches even when they are not clearly structured and when relationships are only implied and not explicitly stated. I understand television programs and films without much effort.	I have no difficulty understanding any type of spoken language, whether in live conversations or broadcast speeches, even if they are delivered at a native speaker's speed, as long as I have time to familiarize myself with the accent.
GRASP	Reading comprehension	I understand familiar words and names and very simple phrases, for example those found on signs, posters, and catalogs.	I can read very short and simple texts. I can find specific and predictable information in simple, everyday texts such as advertisements, brochures, menus, and timetables, and I understand short and simple personal letters.	I understand texts written in everyday language or work-related language. I understand descriptions of events, feelings, and wishes in personal letters.	I am able to read articles and reports on contemporary issues in which the authors take specific stances or viewpoints. I understand contemporary literary prose.	I understand long and complex texts of a literary or factual nature, appreciating distinctions of style. I understand specialized articles and lengthy technical instructions, even if they are not related to my area of expertise.	I am able to read with ease virtually all forms of written language, including structurally or linguistically complex abstract texts such as, for example, manuals, specialist articles, and literary works.
SPEAK	Oral interaction	I can participate in a simple conversation as long as the other person is willing to repeat what they've said or rephrase it, speak more slowly, and help me formulate what I'm trying to say. I ask and answer simple questions about immediate needs or very common topics.	I can communicate in simple, routine tasks requiring a straightforward exchange of information on everyday activities and matters. I am capable of very brief social exchanges, although I generally cannot understand enough to sustain a conversation on my own.	I can handle almost any situation that arises when I travel to places where that language is spoken. I can spontaneously participate in conversations about everyday topics of personal interest or that are relevant to daily life (for example, family, hobbies, work, travel, and current events).	I can participate in conversations with a degree of fluency and spontaneity, enabling normal communication with native speakers. I can actively participate in discussions in everyday situations, explaining and defending my points of view.	I express myself fluently and spontaneously without having to search for the right words. I use language flexibly and effectively for social and professional purposes. I formulate ideas and opinions precisely and skillfully relate my contributions to those of other speakers.	I participate effortlessly in any conversation or debate and am well-versed in idioms, set phrases, and colloquial expressions. I express myself fluently and convey subtle nuances of meaning with precision. If I encounter a problem, I navigate it so discreetly that others barely notice.
SPEAK	Oral expression	I use simple expressions and phrases to describe the place where I live and the people I know.	I use a series of expressions and phrases to describe in simple terms my family and other people, my living conditions, my educational background and my current job or the last one I had.	I know how to link sentences in a simple way in order to describe experiences and events, my dreams, hopes and ambitions. I can briefly explain and justify my opinions and plans. I can tell a story or narrative, the plot of a book or film, and I can describe my reactions.	I present clear and detailed descriptions of a wide range of topics related to my specialty. I can explain a point of view on a topic by outlining the advantages and disadvantages of various options.	I present clear and detailed descriptions of complex topics that include other subjects, developing concrete ideas and ending with an appropriate conclusion.	I present descriptions or arguments in a clear and fluid manner, with a style that is appropriate to the context and with a logical and effective structure that helps the listener to focus on the important ideas and remember them.
TO WRITE	Written expression	I am able to write short and simple postcards, for example to send greetings. I know how to fill out forms with personal data, for example my name, my nationality and my address on a hotel registration form.	I am able to write short and simple notes and messages relating to my immediate needs. I can write very simple personal letters, for example thanking someone for something.	I am able to write simple and well-linked texts on topics that are familiar to me or of personal interest. I can write personal letters that describe experiences and impressions.	I am able to write clear and detailed texts on a wide range of topics related to my interests. I can write essays or reports conveying information or proposing reasons that support or refute a particular point of view. I know how to write letters that highlight the importance I attach to certain facts and experiences.	I am able to express myself in clear and well-structured texts, presenting points of view at some length. I can write about complex topics in letters, essays, or reports, highlighting what I consider to be important aspects. I select the appropriate style for the readers to whom my writing is addressed.	I am able to write clear and fluent texts in an appropriate style. I can write letters, reports, or complex articles that present arguments with a logical and effective structure that helps the reader focus on and remember the important ideas. I write summaries and reviews of professional or literary works.

6.2. METHODOLOGY

This is a student-centered method that views the teacher as a facilitator and organizer of learning activities according to the students' levels, needs, and personalities. Communicative, traditional, and other cutting-edge classroom activities are selected based on the specific characteristics of each student and their group. Each class is taught by a different teacher, carefully planned by the coordinator and the teaching team.

6.3. DISTRIBUTION OF HOURS AND CLASSES

Weekly lesson plan for the General (A) and (B) course, 101 and 102*.

TIME	MONDAY	TUESDAY	WEDNESDAY	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	END OF SEMANA
8:35-9:25	1B	1B	1B	1B	1B	3
9:30-10:20	1	1	1	1	1
10:25-11:15	1	1	1	1	1
11:15-11:50	Pause	Pause	Pause	Pause	Pause
11:50-12:40	2	2	2	2	2
12:45-13:35	2	2	2	2	2
13:40-14:30	2B	2B	2B	2B	2B

Afternoon	3	3	3	3	3

Grammar-based practice

Explanation of a part of the grammar and immediate practice with exercises and activities framed within real communicative situations. Correction of homework.

Practice and conversation based on thematic units

Oral and written exercises; comprehension practice –audiovisual material and analysis of documents / magazines, books, television, radio– and conversation related to the specific topics covered.

3. Sociocultural activities. Bi-weekly program.

To acquire knowledge of a language, cultural immersion is essential. With this objective, Castila has developed 54 activities that help students integrate into Spanish life and culture. These activities are varied: Spanish films, themed afternoons, musical afternoons, excursions, visits, festivals, sports, tapas, paellas.

*Specific Purpose Courses (200) and Preparation Courses DELE and the Spanish Business Certificate (401, 402) also preferably fit into the 8:30-14:30 schedule.

8. Arrival and welcome

THE FIRST DAY OF CLASS

Students starting their course are summoned to the Casa San Nicolás At 9:00 a.m. on Monday, students will arrive for a welcome session. All students will take a written placement test and participate in a written and oral interview to determine their appropriate level. The written test can be taken before arrival. Placement tests will conclude at 10:20 a.m., just in time for the first lesson. At 11:15 a.m., there will be a morning coffee break, during which the teachers will hold a short meeting to confirm the levels of new students. This break is also an opportunity to meet other students and learn more about the school and its organization. After the break, students will resume their lessons. Textbooks and learning materials (included in the course fee) will be distributed to students at this time.

The schedule for the following days will be from 9:30 to 13:35 for General 101 (A) course and from 8:35 to 14:30 for General 102 (B) course. (See “Method and levels” on page 10).

The program of activities for these two weeks will be given to the student on their first day at school, along with a welcome/information document. Upon request, Castila can arrange for students to be picked up at Málaga or [other airports]. Granada and taken to their lodgings in GranadaThe agreement between Castila and Europcar allows you to pick up a car at the airport and drop it off at the Europcar office. GranadaAccording to this agreement, there are special prices for Castile students, and it is not necessary to pay extra to leave the car in a different location. This is also possible for departures (from Granada).

AIRPORT PICKUP

If requested, Castila can arrange for students to be picked up at the airports of Malaga or Granada and taken to their lodgings in Granada

CAR RENTAL

The agreement between Castila and Europcar allows you to pick up a car at the airport and drop it off at the office. GranadaAccording to this agreement, there are special prices for Castile students, and it is not necessary to pay extra to leave the car in a different location. This is also possible for departures (from Granada).

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

If you have a medical emergency during class, please notify a staff member as soon as possible. One of our staff members will accompany you (if you wish) to the nearest health center. The health center closest to the school is the Health Center AlbaicínIf you have a medical emergency outside of school hours and need help, please call our emergency number +34 676358250

9. QUALITY IN CASTILE

Castila's prestige and credibility cannot be overlooked. In addition to experience and professionalism, our quality is backed by leading national and international organizations that oversee the quality control of language teaching organizations and trade associations.

CERVANTES INSTITUTE	UNIVERSITY OF GRANADA
BILDUNGSURLAUB	Socrates – Comenius Action 2.2
CSN	Her Majesty's Diplomatic Service
INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF ANDALUSIA

Numerous other institutions (universities, teachers' organizations, educational centers, companies, etc.) find Castile to be the ideal destination for their students and staff.

9. Student services, complaints and procedure.

As you may have read earlier in this document, the entire Castila team focuses on ensuring the satisfaction of our students, apart from the administrative procedures, in the three main areas that make up their stay: course, activities and accommodation.

To achieve our mission, we offer you the following complaint and suggestion forms.

There are 3 options:

Complaint form of the Andalusian Regional Government (Regional Ministry of Employment and Industry. General Directorate of Commerce)
AEEA and FE Complaints EnrolDELE, that oversees compliance with the commitments of the EEA and FE Quality DeclarationDELE.
Complaints and suggestions box, Student services at the center, anonymous or personal suggestions or complaints

Ask your teacher or coordinator for more details, procedures, or forms; they will be happy to help you.

The Center's administration assumes responsibility for reviewing documents with the appropriate frequency, diagnosing issues, and following the necessary procedures for each case. This also includes recording incidents and interventions, as well as handling external inquiries.