SCHOOLS
It can be extremely daunting bringing your children to Spain to live and considering where to send them to school is going to be high on your list of priorities. International or Spanish? They both have their pros & cons and only you can decide which is best suited to your child.In general though, the younger the child the easier it is to adapt and pick up the language.This is especially true for children up to secondary school age.
Before you decide, talk to other parents and visit the local schools so you can see for yourself, consider your child’s personality, do they make friends easily?are they shy? This will also have bearing on your decision. Dont be surprised if they do not like school at first, they will in time once they get used to it.
But 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 countrie’s spectacular climate and excellent facilities. And though they may prefer to be on the beach or in the pool, 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 many around the Costa’s and main cities 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.
Spanish 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, but generally they are considerably less than that of the UK.
PROS & CONS
Most follow the English curriculum
Students of similar background
Easier to adapt to
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Harder to pick up the language
The cost as work can be limited so you need to have enough reserves to cover these costs without the need to rely on income.
Integration into the community is longer
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(although some areas subsidise or cover the whole cost) 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
PROS & CONS
Become fluent in Spanish quicker.
Integrate into the community easier.
Settle into the Spanish lifestyle and adopt the culture
Have extra help with language in class
In Inland areas the class size is usually quite small
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May be the minority away from the Costa’s
Translator may be needed if you have any questions or queries.
Limited English spoken although it is taught as part of the curriculum
Harder to make friends
GETTING YOUR CHILD INTO SCHOOL
Enrolling your child in school may require a translator and you will need the following:
Childs Birth Certificate
Baby book (with record of immunisations)
Medical Examination (this is not compulsory in some areas)
Passport
Passports/residencia of both parents
NIE numbers of both parents
Padron
(the above are a guide only, based on personal experience. Please check what documentation is required in your chosen area)
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