Just an offhand note, make sure to also give him a shortsword or something. Spear and shield almost works, but not really well given the limitations of our combat system. Since a single hit doesn't really have consequences, it is a simple matter for an opponent to simply take one hit to get inside the spear's range and then circle to the shield side where the spear/shield fighter can't really strike due to the unwieldieness of his weapon. Especially the two shortsword claws type of enemies that are pretty much a game standard.
In my experience spear is a much better blocking weapon than one-handed attacking weapon. Spear and shortsword, with the spear held vertically tip down for foot/leg shots against inattentive opponents and blocking, is much more workable, as is pretty much any onehanded weapon and shield. Solo spear is pretty great as well, as using two hands on it lets you easily control the tip, apply leverage, and quickly change targets.
Get him to try it in practice before going to game. Nothing more frustrating than a weapon system that you think is going to work out and turns out not to.