SchoolsCosta del Sol

Education on the Costa del Sol: International and Local Schools Compared

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Local Spanish Schools on the Costa del Sol

Types of Local Schools

  1. Public Schools (Colegios Públicos)
  • Free to attend, except for small fees (books, supplies, meals).
  • Classes are taught in Spanish, with some subjects in English.
  • Great for integration into local culture and language.
  1. Concertado Schools (Colegios Concertados)
  • Semi-private, partly funded by the government.
  • Lower fees than private schools.
  • Often Catholic, but open to all.
  1. Private Spanish Schools (Colegios Privados)
  • Fully private, with higher fees.
  • Sometimes bilingual, offering a mix of Spanish curriculum with English instruction.

Pros of Local Schools

  • Full cultural immersion.
  • Faster language learning for children.
  • Free or affordable tuition.
  • Access to Spanish friends and networks.

Cons of Local Schools

  • Limited English support in public schools.
  • Curriculum may differ from home country standards.
  • Older children may struggle more with Spanish immersion.

International Schools on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol is home to one of Spain’s largest selections of international schools, especially in Marbella, Estepona, Benalmádena, and Málaga. Curriculum Options

  • British Curriculum (GCSEs & A-Levels): The most common option, popular with UK and Northern European families.
  • International Baccalaureate (IB): Globally recognized, preparing students for university anywhere in the world.
  • American Curriculum: Includes SAT/Advanced Placement courses.
  • German, Swedish, and French Schools: For families who want their children educated in their home-country system.

Pros of International Schools

  • High academic standards with globally recognised diplomas.
  • English (or another native language) as the primary teaching language.
  • Easier transition for expat children.
  • Strong extracurricular activities and facilities.

Cons of International Schools

  • Higher tuition fees (from €5,000 to €15,000+ per year).
  • Less integration with local Spanish culture.
  • Limited spaces, waiting lists common.

Key Considerations When Choosing a School

  1. Budget: Public schools are free, while international schools require significant annual fees.
  2. Age of the Child: Younger children adapt to Spanish quickly, making local schools a good choice. Teenagers may find international schools easier.
  3. Long-Term Plans: If you plan to stay in Spain permanently, Spanish schools provide stronger local integration. If you may relocate again, international schools offer more flexibility.
  4. Location: Some schools are clustered around Marbella and Málaga, while smaller towns may only have local public schools.
  • Aloha College (Marbella) – British curriculum with IB options.
  • Swans International School (Marbella) – Offers British and IB programs.
  • Laude San Pedro International College – British curriculum, strong bilingual focus.
  • The British International School of Marbella – Highly regarded for primary and secondary education.
  • Colegio Alemán de Málaga – German curriculum.
  • Svenska Skolan Marbella – Swedish curriculum. (Tip: Always check admissions requirements, fees, and waiting lists well in advance.)

Final Thoughts

Education on the Costa del Sol offers a wide range of opportunities, from free Spanish public schools to elite international academies. For families planning a long-term stay and full integration, local schools provide immersion and affordability. For those seeking global mobility and continuity with their home country’s curriculum, international schools are the preferred option. Whichever path you choose, the Costa del Sol ensures a high quality of life, diverse learning environments, and a supportive community for expat families.