How to choose a school in Spain?

Prior to making a final decision regarding school selection, we highly recommend that all of our clients first visit the institutions in person to feel the atmosphere and engage in dialogue with the directors. Based on our experience, such visits often result in a significant shift in perception of the schools, with the priority institution frequently falling to second or third place.

During these visits, it is important to pay attention to certain factors.

• Priorities and strengths of the school

Schools differ in their focus and may direct their efforts towards different goals. Some schools prioritize preparing students for university entrance, while others emphasize foreign language, art, mathematics, or other areas of study. Yet, others consider their main objective to be teaching critical thinking skills, instilling the habit of self-improvement, and fostering a thirst for knowledge. These approaches significantly impact the structure of the entire educational process, highlighting the importance of aligning them with personal values and goals. Failure to do so may result in dissatisfaction with the educational experience.

• Stages of education

The stages of education vary among schools, with some offering programs that span from infancy to adolescence, while others only cater to specific age groups such as nurseries, kindergartens, or primary schools. When considering the type of school to enroll one’s child, it is essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option. For instance, full-cycle schools provide continuity and a clear educational path from early childhood to university, while smaller family-style institutions may offer a more personalized learning environment. It is important to consider personal preferences and priorities when deciding between larger and smaller schools.

• School building, condition, size of classrooms and other facilities

While modern and well-equipped schools are desirable, it is important to note that even semi-private schools in Barcelona may be housed in older buildings with less-than-ideal conditions. As such, it is necessary to adjust one’s expectations accordingly. Class sizes and equipment may also vary and not be the best. Moreover, the quality and size of playgrounds and outdoor areas are additional factors to consider, as they are important spaces where children can socialize and unwind during breaks.

• Religious or not

It is worth noting that many semi-private schools in Barcelona receive funding from religious organizations. As such, these institutions may introduce religious topics to varying degrees, depending on the specific school’s affiliations and mission. However, it is important to recognize that no school should force any particular religious beliefs on students. If religious affiliation is an important factor for you when selecting a school, it is recommended that you pay close attention to the school’s approach to religious education to ensure alignment with your personal values and beliefs.

• Additional sections and classes

If you desire your child to remain at school after classes for extracurricular activities, it is important to carefully consider the available options. While it is certainly convenient to have all activities located in one place, it is important to note that the quality of such programs may vary. Thus, you should obtain a list of available extracurricular activities and carefully evaluate the quality and relevance of each program. Common options may include English language, drawing classes, and other specialized courses. 

• Location

The location of a school is a significant consideration when choosing an educational institution for a child. The surrounding neighborhood can affect the child’s overall educational experience. Additionally, the distance between the school and the family’s residence should be taken into account. While school buses may be available as an option, this can result in additional expenses for families. Therefore, it is important to carefully weigh the costs and benefits of different location options when selecting a school.

If you require guidance or support in selecting a school for your child, you may submit a request for consultation and assistance here.