Education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of individuals and societies. In Spain, a country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse regions, the educational landscape offers a variety of schooling options for students. We will delve into the different types of schools available in Spain so you can gain insight into how the Spanish school system operates. We will provide some names of schools in Malaga province along the Costa Del Sol to make your research easier. We don’t have any affiliation with any of the schools.

TYPES OF SCHOOLS IN COSTA DEL SOL

Public Schools (Colegios Publicos)

Public schools, also known as "colegios públicos," are funded and regulated by the government. These schools provide free education to students and follow the Spanish national curriculum. Public schools are typically attended by the majority of Spanish students and are distributed throughout the country. Many expats in Costa del Sol also attend public schools and depending of the area, some classes have 50/50 ratios of Spaniards and expats. This is the case in many classes across the Costa Del Sol.

They offer education from preschool to secondary levels where Spanish is the first language. English is a mandatory subject and French or German are normally the third language. Spanish schools usually end their day around 2:30pm. Many offer cafeteria services with a full balanced daily menu for about 100 Euros per month. There are several programs to reduce this amount and since most lunch services are post-class, yours kids don’t need to stay and can opt-out. 

Public schools focus on academic development and often include free or low cost extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, and cultural events. Free transportation and support classes are often included as well. The curriculum includes subjects such as mathematics, languages (Spanish and regional languages like Catalan, Galician, or Basque), sciences, social studies, music, and physical education. Public schools are assigned by using a point system based on the family location and the specific circumstances of such families. 

Spanish Private Schools (Colegios Privados)

Private schools, or "colegios privados," are funded by tuition fees paid by parents or other private sources. These schools often have smaller class sizes, more specialized programs, and can follow different educational approaches or philosophies. Private schools vary in terms of curriculum, teaching methods, and educational focus. Some private schools may prioritize specific areas such as language immersion programs, religious education, or alternative teaching methods. For example, there are Montessori schools that emphasize student-led learning and hands-on experiences. Some of these private schools are often referred to as "Alternative Schools" and you can read about them in the section below.

The cost of private education can vary widely, and parents often choose private schools based on their educational philosophy and the specific needs of their children. Spanish private schools may offer a better opportunity to your kids to learn Spanish than international schools. There are several private schools in Costa Del Sol in most of the cities. From Malaga, Banalmadena, Marbella and Estepona.

International Schools

In addition to public and private schools, Spain is home to numerous international schools that cater to the needs of expatriate or internationally mobile families. There are about 40 international schools in Costa Del Sol. You can find them in almost every city. Marbella, Estepona and Malaga are popular cities for international schools. These schools provide education in different languages and offer curriculum from various countries, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the British curriculum (IGCSE/A-Levels).

International schools attract a diverse student body and provide an international perspective on education. They often have modern facilities, multilingual staff, and a range of extracurricular activities. These schools are popular among families seeking continuity in education when moving to different countries or those who wish to provide their children with a global perspective. On the darker side, some international schools have the highest teacher turnover rates. 

Some popular international schools in Costa del Sol are Swans International and the Aloha College, both follow the British National Curriculum and both are in Marbella. Laude in San Pedro also follows the British curriculum and is highly recommended. Estepona has one of the best rated international schools, San Jose that follows a curriculum emphasizing academic progress, personal development and supportive learning environment. A little more west, you will find the prestigious Sotogrande International School. 

American Schools

These American schools in Costa del Sol cater to families seeking an American-style education for their children. They provide a curriculum aligned with U.S. standards, ensuring that students receive an education that prepares them for American universities or other international educational pathways. In addition to academic subjects, American schools often emphasize extracurricular activities, sports, and the development of well-rounded individuals. They also offer resources and guidance for students interested in the college application process, standardized testing, and cultural immersion. These American schools in Costa del Sol contribute to the diverse educational options available in the region, allowing families to choose an educational path that aligns with their preferences, cultural background, and long-term educational goals.

There are two American schools in Costa del Sol:

1. American College in Spain: The American College in Spain is a renowned American school located in Marbella. It offers an American curriculum that follows the guidelines of the United States education system. The school provides education from 7th grade to the first two years of university and aims to prepare students for higher education in the United States or other international destinations. The American College in Spain focuses on academic excellence, critical thinking, and fostering a multicultural learning environment. The school offers a wide range of subjects, including English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and elective courses.

2. Atlas School: Atlas School is an esteemed American school situated in Estepona. It offers an American curriculum that follows the guidelines of the United States education system. Atlas School provides education from Pre-K to 12th grade, focusing on academic excellence, character development, and critical thinking skills. The school aims to prepare students for success in American universities or other international higher education institutions. Atlas School offers a comprehensive range of subjects, including English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, foreign languages, and elective courses. The curriculum is designed to foster intellectual growth, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Alongside rigorous academics, the school emphasizes the development of essential life skills and values such as leadership, integrity, and global citizenship. Atlas School also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, fine arts, clubs, and community service initiatives. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop teamwork skills, and enhance their personal growth.

Alternative Schools

Alternative schools provide families in Costa del Sol with educational alternatives that focus on individualized instruction, experiential learning, and holistic development. These schools offer a different perspective on education, valuing creativity, independence, and the unique talents of each student. By attending these schools, children can experience a diverse and enriching educational journey that nurtures their natural curiosity and fosters their overall growth and development.

1. Montessori Schools: The Montessori method emphasizes hands-on learning, individualized instruction, and the development of independence and self-motivation. In Costa del Sol, you can find Montessori schools that provide alternative educational options for families seeking a different approach to learning. There are several options along the Costa del Sol but their campus in Estepona is expanding and will offer academic services up to 12th grade starting in 20024.

2. Alborán School: Alborán School is an alternative learning school located in Marbella. It offers a holistic and innovative approach to education based on personalized learning, emotional intelligence, and project-based learning. Alborán School follows the principles of Multiple Intelligences Theory, which recognizes and values the diverse ways in which individuals learn and excel. The goal is to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

Semi-Private Schools  (Concertada/Concertado)

These charter-like schools are called concertados and concertadas depending on the feminine (escuela) or masculine (colegio) use in Spanish and they are extremely popular in Spain.  Often referred to as "semi-private" schools, they are technically public schools but some function and operate like private schools, and in some cases, even better than international and Spanish private schools. Many of these school are religious based, often Christian or Catholic but inclusive to everybody. The best of these schools is that many have bilingual classes. Fundación Victoria have concertada schools in Málaga, Marbella and Estepona. Other schools are Colegio Ecos or Maria Auxiliadora in Marbella. Access to these schools are the same as accessing the public schools using a point system based in your location and also the specific circumstances of the family applying. 

So, with all of that in mind, it's time to get searching for your kids best fit. And don't forget that here at WaiKool Homes, we can also help you to answer and questions and to find the right school for your family. Interested in understanding the school system in Spain? Read HERE about it.