Whats the best way to keep my Spanish sharp outside of school?

People rarely enjoy the idea of homework outside of the classroom, but there are ways you can keep your Spanish topped up with minimal effort, whether at home or on holiday. Firstly get into a habit of listening to news bulletins in Spanish, when you get up in the morning listening, once or twice to online reports (the ones on the RTVE.com website are excellent) even if in the background while you are getting ready for school can help keep your ear for the language. Secondly try to inject Spanish into your day to day activities, for example download some spanish songs and watch your favourite tv shows and movies with Spanish subtitles. Finally, talk to yourself, I know it sounds mental, but whatever you are doing, trying to narrate your actions and practicing your vocabulary can really help you to never forget words and clauses.