Choosing a School in Spain

The Spanish education system

How to successfully choose a school in Spain

Choice of school

There are a number of choices available to you, but basically the younger the children the more choices. At a young age children can easily pick up a second language and could be educated through the Spain state system for free.

Be aware that all lessons will be carried out in Spanish. The students will achieve the Spanish equivalent of the GCSE and A level qualifications (graduation certificate and bachillerato) leading on the university, if desired, plus the added bonus of being bi-lingual. Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world.

If your children don’t speak Spanish and are already in secondary education the best option would be for an English speaking school.

There are a number of British Schools in Spain which run the the British curriculum and examinations, and if desired, leading on to entry into Spanish, American or British universities. Some of these schools start at primary level. The National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS) was founded in 1978 to promote and maintain British Education in Spain. There are about 40 schools in Spain who belong to NABSS. They are located in Asturias, Andalucia, Barcelona, Canary Islands, Valencia, Alicante, Madrid, Balearic Islands and Castellon. The schools offer a wide range of education ranging from 1 - 18 years. Details of the organisation and schools can be found on their website is www.nabss.org.

All the schools offering a British style education are fee paying schools, so do check current prices before you commit any further. It is obviously essential to visit the school before committing, preferably during term time with your children. (See the British Schools Section for more information.)

When choosing any school (Spanish or English) you will get an atmosphere whether it is right for your family or not. For example the teachers and pupils reaction to your visit, the quality of facilities and the displays. As soon as you have made your provisional choice of schools, it is vital to contact the schools concerned to check availability of places. Many schools are oversubscribed and will limit the number of pupils in order to maintain standards with manageable class sizes.

Places in the state system are usually applied for in the Spring for Autumn intake, there is no guarantee of obtaining one of your (usually three) choices but the State has an obligation to offer a place at a school. Places are awarded on a "points" system and classroom availability.

Points are given for various circumstances

living in the catchment area
sibling already at the school
many children family
disabled child or siblings
low income family
unemployed parent (one or both)

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