Guide to Andalucía - Education and Schools

Moving to Spain and taking you children away from their normal environment, friends and schooling is a very daunting decision for any parent to make. When it comes to continuing education in Spain for older foreign children, there is one problem to be overcome – language! However, in recognising that education in Spain cannot continue unless the language is spoken, most schools have effective language courses which ensure that foreign children are soon speaking Spanish.

When choosing consider your child’s age. State school lessons are taught in Castilian Spanish or the local dialect and small children thrown in at the deep end adapt more easily than those of secondary school age. In popular expat areas, other English-speaking children in class may help translate.

Nursery education is of a high standard and often council-run. Opening times are 0800-1730 and the cost is reasonable. To enrol, firstly ensure your child is on the local town hall register (“padron”) and therefore within the catchment area. After that you will require: 2 photos, medical/vaccination certificates, copy of entry on town hall padron, child’s passport, birth certificate, copy of mother’s passport, marriage certificate and social security card.

Infant/Primary schools are for ages 3 to14. No uniform, teachers called by first names, open 0900-1700 with a 2-3 hour break in the middle.

The academic year in Spain runs from September to June. School times can vary depending on which area you are in. The more traditional areas stop between the hours of 1-3.30 for the siesta period and then return to school at 5.30pm.

Families arranging their children’s education in Spain can choose between the state system and international schools.

The state system is similar to the way the English system works. At the age of 16, pupils are awarded “titulo de graduado escolar” certificate which can enable them to stay on to obtain their baccalaureate so they can enter university.

The private system follows the national curriculum that included GSCE’s and ‘A’ levels. After this they can go onto university with the right grades. Spanish universities accept British ‘A’ levels as an entrance qualification.

International schools involve fees whereas state schools are free from age 5. Most follow a UK syllabus, up to GCSEs and A/S levels, where state schools offer the “bachillerato” diploma. For entry it is usually necessary to show exam results, a report from the previous school, birth certificate, medical and vaccination certificates

NABSS (National Association of British Schools in Spain) has member schools in traditional expat areas and a good reputation for quality.

Nurseries

Bambi Logo's Nursery. Avda La Paloma, Arroyo de la Miel

A very modern nursery with up to date security measures. Fully qualified and trained staff. Fully licenced. Massive, fully equipped outdoor play area. Tel +34 952 440 909

Peter Pan Nursery. C/El Olivar, 5, Arroyo de la Miel

Bi-lingual nursery. Fully licenced and trained staff. Well equipped nursery situated in a spacious villa with gardens for the children to enjoy. Tel +34 952 562 103

Red Tiempo Libre. Gal. Terrazas de Marbella, L2, C/Calvario, Marbella

Small groups, summer schools, recreation activities, full and part time. Tel +34 952 900 218

Children's Place.

New and modern nursery. Bi-lingual. Gymnasium, outdoor areas, dining room, after school activities. Tel +34 952 907 825

Schools

Language Schools