Live the Spanish Summer: Sports, Language & Culture in Barcelona (Ages 11-16)
A one-week immersion where students train, practice Spanish, and experience daily life in Barcelona through sports and host family connections. Registration opens April 27th.
Led by Pilar Martín DeNardo, M.A. Ed. A bilingual educator from Barcelona with a Master’s degree in Bilingual Education and more than 20 years of experience in Southern California classrooms. As a Spanish native and mother of two American boys, Pilar brings a deeply personal and professional commitment to every family she works with.
Barcelona Sports & Cultural Immersion
This is not a typical summer trip.
In partnership with Club Junior 1917, one of Barcelona’s premier sports and community clubs, students experience the city like locals — through sports, language, and daily life.
Participants don’t just visit Barcelona — they train, connect, and live within it.
Program highlights include:
• Daily sports training (soccer, tennis, pádel, and field hockey)
• Host family immersion or family companion stay nearby
• Cultural exploration in and around Barcelona
• Authentic Spanish language practice in real-life settings
Enrollment is intentionally limited to create a personal and supportive experience.
Why Choose Our Program
🌍 Cultural Immersion
Live the Barcelona experience through sports, language, and daily life.
💪 Confidence & Growth
Students develop independence and global awareness.
🤝 International Friendships
Train and connect with Spanish peers.
🛡 Safe & Structured
Programs take place at Club Junior 1917 with trusted local partners.
Program Highlights
🛡 Safe & Structured
A well-organized program with trusted local partners and clear daily supervision.
🌍 Authentic Cultural Immersion
Students experience real life in Barcelona through sports and community.
🗣 Real-World Spanish
Spanish is practiced naturally through daily interaction.
👥 Small Cohort
Limited enrollment ensures a personal and supportive experience.
🍽️ Host Family Welcome Dinner Visiting and host families meet in person, share a meal, and exchange contact information before the program begins — so every family feels confident and connected.
Who Can Participate
Ages 11–16
Open to middle and high school students (grades 6–10).
All Spanish Levels Welcome
From beginners to heritage speakers.
Southern California Families
Currently open to families based in Southern California.
Program Dates & Tuition
Program Dates
July 26 – August 1, 2026
1 week (6 nights) in Barcelona / Sant Cugat
Families arrange their own travel to Barcelona.
Tuition
Registration opens April 30th. Join our interest list to be first notified and reserve your spot.
The program includes daily training at Club Junior 1917, scheduled program activities, on-site support, snacks, and lunch.
Airfare is not included.
Students may stay with a vetted Spanish host family or with their parent at a nearby hotel.
Application & Admissions
Admission is by application to ensure a positive and cohesive group experience.
Students submit a short application followed by a brief virtual meeting with Mamá Maestra program leadership.
Enrollment is intentionally limited, and early applications are encouraged.