Education System in Spain
The Spanish schooling system is structured in a way that begins with primary school, known as primaria, which is attended by children from the ages of six to 12. Following this, students move on to secondary school, known as Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (ESO), from the ages of 12 to 16. Upon completion of secondary school, students receive their Certificate of Education. After this, students have the option to pursue bachillerato, although this is no longer compulsory.
The school year in Spain is typically divided into three terms, with a lengthy summer holiday break. The winter term runs from September to December, followed by the spring term from January to Easter, and finally the summer term from Easter to June. Primary school days usually run from 0900 to 1200 and 1500 to 1700, while secondary school days typically run from 0800-1500 or 0800-1400 and 1530 to 1700.
In Spain, schools generally provide a high standard of education. Most primary schools accept children from the age of three, with some exceptions. Entry into these schools depends on the catchment area in which the children live, making it important to consider the schools before purchasing a home in Spain. Additionally, some state primary schools may teach in the local dialect rather than Spanish, which is important for expat families to consider as it means their children will learn the regional dialect before mastering regular Spanish. Similarly, secondary schools in Spain provide a good standard of teaching, with a rigorous curriculum. However, it's important to note that some secondary schools also teach subjects in the regional dialect rather than Spanish, which can create challenges for students who have to learn two languages simultaneously.
Researching secondary schools thoroughly is crucial for students and their families. Personal recommendations are considered one of the most effective ways to discover good secondary schools. Additionally, estate agents can provide valuable information about schools in the area. It's important to note that entry to a school is often determined by the catchment area, so it's essential to consider this factor when making a decision.
Upon successful completion of secondary school, students will receive a Certificate of Completion of Secondary Education. However, if they are not successful, they will receive a Certificado de Escolarización. This highlights the importance of putting effort into their studies to achieve the desired qualification.
After obtaining the Certificate of Completion of Secondary Education, students have various options for further education. They can choose to leave school or continue their studies by pursuing the Bachillerato or enrolling in a vocational course. The Bachillerato is a two-year program that is equivalent to the UK A-Levels but is considered more rigorous.
In Spain, state universities offer a wide range of degree programs and professional qualifications. These institutions are known for providing a solid education and are in the process of aligning their system with the rest of Europe. As a result, students can expect to pursue three to four year degrees and two year Master’s qualifications. Polytechnic universities, on the other hand, have a strong focus on the sciences, offering specialized programs in fields such as engineering and technology.
Private schools in Spain are predominantly co-educational Catholic day schools, with some fully independent international schools also available. Many of these schools follow the Spanish state-school system and offer the bachillerato program. While they are state-subsidized, the fees can vary significantly based on factors such as the school's quality, reputation, and location. Generally, the cost of private education in Spain is lower compared to other countries.
For expats living in Spain, international schools are an option for their children, especially if they wish to pursue the international baccalaureate. However, these schools come with a high price tag, with fees ranging from €300-1000 per semester. Despite the cost, Spain’s international schools are highly esteemed and typically offer curriculums tailored to American, British, German, and French students. It's important to note that all international schools in Spain must be approved by their respective country’s embassy.
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