Schools in the Spain
Starting a new life in southern Spain with your family is a fantastic opportunity for everyone. Your kids will get to spend more time outdoors, enjoying the region’s spectacular climate and excellent facilities. And though they may prefer to be on the beach, you can rest assured that they’ll be educated in a great system, and, regardless of their age, become fluent in Spanish.
Education is compulsory in Spain from 6 to 16, and schools in Spain are increasingly considered to be of a better standard than many other European countries (including the UK) with fewer discipline problems. Here’s a quick guide to the options and how they work.
International schools
The most popular choice for expats, with several in the area to choose from:
- Some teach exclusively in English, others in English and Spanish.
- Most are members of the National Association of British Schools in Spain.
- British schools usually follow the UK curriculum and offer GCSEs and A and A/S levels. Many also now offer the internationally recognised Baccalaureate diploma as an alternative to A levels. Class sizes are small and the atmosphere is relaxed.
- All international schools are fee paying. Fees vary from school to school.
Spanish Schools
Spanish state education is open to all EU citizens and is free from pre-school to 18. You’ll be expected to pay for books, stationery and extra-curricular activities.
Villages and suburbs have their own nursery and primary schools, but secondary schools have a larger catchment area. The catchment area is all-important – if you’re set on a particular school, make sure you look for a home in the right area. Around 30% of Spain’s school children go to a private school. These are fee paying and offer a lower student/teacher ratio than state schools. The Spanish education system
Pre-school age 1-6
A good way to integrate your children into the community. There are state nurseries and private nurseries, some run by expats.
Compulsory education age 6-14
Pupils complete their basic general education (Educacion General Basica or EGB). At the end of this they’ll receive a school leaving certificate which determines what they move onto next. Unlike UK schools, if children fail their end of year exams in both primary and secondary schools, they risk having to repeat the entire academic year – a definite motivator!
Technical school age 14-16
Less academic pupils go on to a vocational school. The first year is compulsory and covers general career teaching. The second year is optional and allows students to specialise in a particular subject and go on work placements.
High school age 14-18
More academic pupils go on to a secondary school to study for their Baccalaureate diploma.
University
Most universities in the UK recognise the Baccalaureate diploma as well as A levels. Applicants for Spanish universities are expected to complete the Selectividad entrance exam in their final year at high school.
In Spain it’s usual for students to go to the nearest university and live at home. There are several good universities in the area, including Malaga, Cordoba, Granada and Seville.
When it comes to grants, it’s a familiar story – you’re very unlikely to get one. So whether they’re at university in Spain or in the UK, it will be quite an investment.
Useful contacts
National Association of British Schools in Spain www.nabss.org