EDUCATION IN SPAIN

It is often said that the biggest decision made when moving to Spain is the education of a child. Much depends upon the age and ability of the child, but taking into account their personality is often something that is overlooked. Yet it is the one thing that can make or break a child in a new school, especially if they are dealing with a new language.

There are two schools of thought surrounding the education of foreign children in Spain.

Either put them in Spanish school and see how they go OR

Put them in a private English School.

There are actually sound reasons for both. It should be said that consideration of the future of the child should be the primary concern.

Consideration should also be given as to whether in reality your move to Spain is a long term permanent one or whether it is only likely to be for a short period.

For many the return back to the UK causes the children more problems than the move to Spain because they have been out of the UK education system for too long to be able to cope with what is expected of them on their return.

The Spanish education system works towards the baccalauriat (equivalent of GCSE/A levels) and it is internationally recognised.

Your child will also be totally bi-lingual which can only be a benefit in an ever shrinking world.

The Spanish Education system provides further benefit in that the expat children are integrated into the Spanish Community and they learn about Spanish Values and customs meaning that life generally for them is much easier.

For those with children of 10 plus consideration of a Private school is sometimes not an option but a must because the state schools will not accept children who are not fluent in Spanish in the institutes. Quite often attempts to go through the state system at this age fail, leaving more difficulties of how to educate the child.

The cost of private education does not come cheap and is relative to private education/cost of living.

If you do choose to put your child into private school be prepared for them to remain there until they complete their education or until you return to the UK.

One downside to private education is that for the children attending their command of Spanish is far interior to that of children in state schools.

One difficulty often encountered when a child leaves an English school is that they are often unable to find employment in Spain and they return to the UK leaving the parents in Spain. Or they return to the UK to complete their education at univercity or college. This is something which often was not envisaged but which sadly is a common occurrence.

If your children are younger and you intend to remain in Spain it is worthwhile considering the Spanish system, they will benefit. Some critisise the spanish system as not been as good as the english system. Weighing up the balance is a matter for the parents and the children.

There is no right or wrong option it is purely personal at the end of the day.

Do bear in mind that older children do find it harder to integrate and learn the language.