How to Find the Right School for Your Child
Life after moving to Spain is exciting and full of opportunities. But what are the extra steps you have to take if you have a child? Raising a child overseas can be a great experience for both you and your child, but finding the right school that offers a quality education can be overwhelming. To make it easier, read on and learn how to find the best international schools in Spain for your children.
Understanding the Spanish Education System
Before you can find the right school, you need to know how the system is set up. Education levels in Spain include preschool, primary school, middle school, and the Spanish baccalaureate.
In Spain, preschool is divided into two stages. Children ages 0-3 can attend the first stage, while those ages 3-6 can attend the second. The first stage will cost you, but the second stage is free.
Primary school, known as “colegio,” marks the start of the government’s required education. Children from ages 6-12 attend primary school.
Upon completion of primary school, students move on to middle school. This Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) is for children aged 12 to 16. At the end of ESO, students aged 16-18 can attend high school (Spanish baccalaureate), begin vocational training, or start working.
In the Spanish baccalaureate program, students can specialize in a specific area of study. The chosen discipline can determine which university programs they are eligible to apply to.
The disciplines include the arts, science and technology, humanities, and social sciences. When a student completes the last two years of study, they can choose to take the PAU college entrance exam – the Prueba de Acceso a la Universidad – if they are interested in continuing their education.
International Schools Versus Local Schools
As an expat in Spain, you’ll have to decide whether you want to send your child to a local school or an international school. Both have their benefits and are worth exploring for different reasons.
At a local school, your child will have the best opportunity to learn Spanish and to integrate into the local culture. Local schools are affordable, and they’re a great option if you plan to stay in Spain long term.
International schools offer small class sizes and eliminate the language barrier (if you speak English). They allow students to continue the curriculum from their home country, making it the best option if your stay in Spain will be short.
Learn how to find a language tutor abroad.
How to Choose the Right International School
To find the perfect school for your child, create a list of all the schools in your area where your child is eligible to go. This international school finder tool is a great way to get you started.
Look for Accreditations
Visit the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Support to determine if the school you are considering is accredited.
For British families, consult the National Association of British Schools in Spain and the Council of British International Schools. These offer their own accreditations for British students.
For more advice for expats, consult the Good Schools Guide International for reviews of the top independent schools in Spain.
Consult Fellow Expats
Don’t be afraid to reach out to other expats in your area. Ask them if they have any insight or can recommend a good school.
Many international schools have parent associations that consist of both natives and expats. Connect with a parent association for additional help and advice.
Check the Curriculum
If your child has specific interests, it’s important to find a school that offers those specialized disciplines. Some local high schools focus on science and technology. Others focus more on the arts or social sciences.
Do your research to find the one that’s right for your child.
Different schools offer different activities. If your child intends to join a sports team or a music club, make sure the school you choose offers those extracurricular programs.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
Ultimately, choosing the right school comes down to careful research and understanding your family’s priorities.
Take time to explore the education system, compare your options, and decide whether a local or international school is the best fit for your child.
Local schools offer a strong opportunity to learn Spanish and fully immerse in the culture, while international schools allow your child to continue with a familiar curriculum from home.
It’s also important to consider the programs and extracurricular activities each school offers, ensuring they align with your child’s interests and developmental needs.
With the right choice, your family can enjoy a rewarding and enriching experience as expats in Spain.
The Best International Schools in Spain
Every parent and child has different needs, and there are many great schools in Spain. Based on parent reviews, here are five of the best international schools in Spain to help you get started on your search:
Keen to know more about Spain? Read our articles on moving to Spain, the cost of living in Spain, and living in Spain as an expat.
International Citizens Insurance has an experienced team of authors, including expatriates and world travelers, providing curated guidance for our clients.
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