The Spanish language is currently the second most spoken language in the world, but we should also be working on our English-taught programs.

Spanish language providers in Spain say they've had a strong 2015 on the back of growing numbers of school groups. A new exam requirement for Spanish nationality applicants also promises new revenue streams for schools.

Instituto Cervantes has launched a new Spanish language competency exam that will be computer-based, offer a quick turnaround on results and correspond with English counterparts IELTS and TOEFL.

Instituto Cervantes centres across the world hosted Día E celebrations last week to commemorate the Spanish language and culture. Teaching centres on five continents opened their doors to the public, provided cultural activities and helped to promote the world's second native language of the world.

Spanish could be Spain's most "valuable asset" in building ties with Asian emerging markets, Minister of Foreign Affairs José Manuel García-Margallo has claimed. His comments were made at the launch of new research from Instituto Cervantes, which shows fast-growing interest in the language across Asia, leading García-Margallo to say the region could be Spain's "new El Dorado of the 21st century".

The British Council and Instituto Cervantes have released a joint book to help explain the political, social and economic factors influencing the growth of Spanish and English. The book highlights the evolution and importance that both languages have in today's global society.