Game plan to learn Spanish

John Ainsley (right) and Stephen Foster test their game

Children could be given Spanish lessons using a board game which recreates a Mediterranean holiday.

Players work their way around a map of Spain choosing from day trips and nights out to pick up the language.

The game is being tested in schools in the Hull area by its creator, John Ainsley.

The 45-year-old car salesman hit on the idea after his friend Stephen Foster hunted in vain for a toy which would help his children speak a foreign language.

Father-of-three Mr Ainsley decided to attempt to devise his own game and came up with "Mind Your Language".

He said: "I sat down and came up with the idea for the game.

"There are multiple-choice questions about Spanish geography, history and law.

Board game is based on a Spanish holiday

"The idea is that children move around the map of Spain answering questions and choosing where they want to go and what they want to do.

"It is supposed to be a bit like going on holiday.

"The phrases are written in Spanish but they are also written phonetically so that youngsters can pick up the correct pronunciation."

Mr Ainsley, who lives near Hull, says he knows only enough Spanish "to get by".

He used phrase books to come up with the questions, and would expect any company which did take up the idea to give them a professional polish.

Tests in schools

He also painted all the artwork for the game, which includes maps and cartoons.

He said: "Children really enjoy playing the game and they easily pick up the language."

Mr Ainsley is now taking the game around schools near his home to put the model to the test.

He has taken out a patent on the idea and is hoping a toy manufacturer will take an interest.

Youngsters at South Hunsley secondary school in Melton were the first pupils to be given a glimpse of the game.

Mr Ainsley said: "They really enjoyed playing and even stayed on longer to play."

Rachael Oaks, a languages teacher at the school, said: "The game is excellent.

"I could not believe how quickly the children picked up the language - I even learned a few words myself.

"I think it will be successful and would do well in schools."