Are you and your family considering a move to sunny Spain? Perhaps you’re already there and need to find the best school for your child? No worries, we’ve got you covered! School searching in Spain can seem like a daunting task, but with a little guidance, you’ll be on the right track in no time. In this blog, we’ll break down the steps to help you find the perfect school for your child.
1. Understand the Spanish Education System
Spain has a unique education system, so it’s crucial to understand how it works. There are three main stages: Infantil (preschool), Primaria (primary school), and Secundaria (secondary school including “Bachillerato” which are the last two years before university). Another option for the students who don’t want to go to University is “Formación Profesional”. The school year runs from September to June, and it’s split into trimesters.
2. Choose Your Location
Spain is a diverse country with many regions, each offering a different lifestyle and culture. Research the cities or regions you’re interested in to find the right fit for your family. Consider factors like climate, cost of living, and proximity to work.
3. Public vs. Private Schools
Spain offers both public and private schools. Public schools are funded by the government and typically follow the Spanish curriculum. Private schools may offer different curriculum, such as international programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB), the French Curriculum in case of the French schools (Liceo Francés), German curriculum in german schools, etc. Research the options and decide which suits your child’s needs and your budget.
4. Language Considerations
Spanish is the primary language of instruction in most schools, but you can also find bilingual and international schools. If your child isn’t fluent in Spanish, consider a school with English or another language of instruction. In Cataluña, the language of instruction is catalan, so keep that in mind.
5. Research Schools
Start by making a list of potential schools in your chosen location. Visit school websites, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from other expat families. Pay attention to factors like class size, extracurricular activities that they offer, the school’s philosophy, how easy it will be to take your children to school or if they have buses passing close to your apartment.
6. Visit the Schools
If possible, visit the schools on your shortlist. This will give you a feel for the environment and a chance to meet teachers and staff. Ask questions about their approach to education, extracurricular offerings, and any admission requirements. Schools usually offer “puertas abiertas” (open days) during Spring time, so that potential students and their families can visit the school before choosing where to enroll. Same goes for universities.
7. Check Admission Requirements
Different schools may have various admission criteria (depending on the school year your child is entering to), including entrance exams or interviews. Be sure to check these requirements and deadlines. Some schools may have waiting lists, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
8. Consider Your Child’s Needs
Think about your child’s individual needs and preferences. Are they interested in a specific extracurricular activity or subject? Do they thrive in smaller class sizes or prefer a more structured environment? Factor these considerations into your decision-making process.
9. Plan for Transitions
If you’re moving to Spain, consider how school transitions will affect your child. Moving from one educational stage to another can be challenging, so it’s essential to prepare your child for the changes they’ll face. Most schools in Spain are very well prepared for welcoming foreign childrens to their institutions, as Spain has a lot of immigration. Special education is highly taken into account at the state level; Teachers are required to think of individualized plans for children who do not speak Spanish, for example, and obviously also for those who may have learning difficulties such as dyslexia, hyperactivity, etc.
10. Stay Informed
Once you’ve chosen a school, stay involved in your child’s education. Attend parent-teacher meetings, get to know other parents, and communicate regularly with the school. This will help ensure a successful educational experience for your child.
In conclusion, finding the right school in Spain may seem overwhelming, but with careful research and planning, you can make the best choice for your child’s education. Take your time, consider your options, and don’t hesitate to ask for help and advice from the local community. Spain has a lot to offer, and a good education can be a vital part of your family’s adventure in this beautiful country. Good luck with your school search!
