Children's Education
If you plan to move the whole family abroad, your children's education is highest priority. There are a variety of options to consider, as outlined below.
International Schools
All of these establishments offer tuition in English. They tend to be the most popular option, but all vary so it is best to research the different possibilities. IGCSEs can be undertaken at most of the schools, while the Spanish LOGSE system is also a popular choice. International schools offer your child the opportunity for a wider education in the company of pupils from varied backgrounds and cultures. Most international schools also pride themselves on maintaining small classes, which allow for a greater degree of personalised tuition
State Schools
More and more ex-pats are deciding to integrate their children into the state schools. To do this, it is necessary to possess the relevant documentation for enrolment. Ideally this process should be undertaken before moving to Spain, because until it is completed no school will accept your child. This documentation process can be costly and can take time. As in British state schools, the catchment area is all-important, so having decided on your chosen school it is essential to ensure that your house (whether purchased or rented) is located in the correct area.
Private Schools
Spanish private schools are becoming increasingly popular. The private sector offers Spanish education in an environment with a lower student/teacher ratio than provided by a state school.
Enrolment Most schools prefer to interview prospective pupils, with exams being set in some cases to ascertain the level of Spanish attained. The official enrolment procedure requires that parents provide their local Town Hall with the following documentation:
- The child's birth certificate or passport with an official Spanish translation.
- Proof of immunisation.
- Proof of residence in the shape of an electricity or phone bill or a lease agreement or proof of ownership.
- Proof of convalidation.
State education is free of charge, but parents are expected to purchase books. Qualifications The Spanish system of education is divided into three stages: ESO (Compulsory Secondary Education), BUP (the equivalent of British GCSEs) and COU (the Spanish version of the A level course). In addition, university applicants are expected to complete the Selectividad, an entrance exam. English parents can access work/books via the Internet to supplement their child's education.
Useful Contacts Listings of schools in different areas - www.nabss.org Spanish Education - Tel 0207 727 2462
