The children of Spain begin their schooling at the age of 6, and continue through to age 18.  There are local schools in every community in addition to many private and international schools.  About 33% of Spain’s school children attend either a private or an international school

Spanish public schools aren’t open to anyone who wishes to send their child.  If you are a foreigner, you must interview as part of the admission process.  This interview includes a review of your child’s school records from your home country and every year is validated.  There is a charge for this, based on the number of years that must be researched.  It is suggested that this process begin as soon as you settle into your new home as it takes a great deal of time.  Registration for the school year is held in May.  Bring a birth certificate or passport, with an official Spanish translation (Apostille).

After-school care is provided for working families.

Pre-school is available for children ages 1-6.  This is a good way to introduce your child to the Spanish language and prepare him for primary school.

Parochial, bi-lingual and international schools are in most major cities, in addition to a number of foreign-language schools.  While there are fees for these schools, they are low compared to the private school fees charged in other parts of Europe and the U.S.

French, German and Swedish schools, in addition to American and British accredited schools are found in Spain as well, and must be approved by their country’s embassy. 

If your goal is to blend into the Spanish lifestyle, then a foreign-language school may not be the best direction.  However, if a higher education in your home country’s university system is your goal, investigating the foreign-language schools is important.