8 best boarding schools in Madrid 2024

Today, many parents choose best boarding school in Madrid for their children, often with a variety of options for their children's accommodation: from full board to separate days per week or month, as well as the possibility of staying with a Spanish family.

There are many such schools in Spain. Usually, it is about private educational institutions that specialize in multilingual, physical or religious education. Some of them teach children according to the British curriculum, others - according to the American curriculum, and still others - in Spanish. Many pay special attention to the physical education of their students. In some schools, a strict atmosphere prevails, and all life is conducted according to a strict schedule, subject to discipline.

Secondary education in Spain is compulsory from 6 to 15 years old. Education is divided into two stages: Primaria - similar to elementary school for children aged 6-11 years and the "secondary" school Educación Segundaria Obligatoria - for students aged 12-15 years. The last two classes of high school (15-18 years old, Bachillerato) are no longer required and are preparing for university entrance. At the end of each year, high school exams are taken, but two "tails" are brought to the next class, which can be retaken in the fall. Education is conducted in Spanish or in the local dialect or in English, depending on the type of school.

There are two types of public schools in Spain: fully public - colegios públicos, free of charge and co-funded - colegios Concertados.  In addition to the local authorities, can be funded by the Catholic Church, but the education remains secular. Instruction in these schools is only in Spanish or a second local language. One foreign language, second only to Spanish, will be taught here at the age of 8, and the third - at the age of 13 at will. It is difficult to send a child alone to Spain to study in a public school: usually, there is no residency in such schools and enrollment is carried out in the place of residence - that is, the family needs a residence permit. However, for students between 15 and 18 years old, there are courses that can prepare them for the final exams (Selectividad) to enter Spanish universities. The child will live in a family with a host family and he can attend any free school in the area where there is a host family. To participate in the program, you need to have good academic results and at least two years of Spanish language study.

Semi-public schools also accept children in their place of residence, as this is the reason they receive subsidies. But some places are allocated through competition, so foreigners have more opportunities here. Likewise, it is more likely to find a semi-public school with its own residence or boarding apartment than a fully public school.

Discover the Distinctive Spanish Boarding School Experience in Madrid and Compare it with the Prestigious Boarding Schools in London for a Comprehensive View of European Education. Contact Us for More Information.

Madrid, a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, offers a unique educational experience. Here's why considering a boarding school in this vibrant Spanish city could be an enriching choice.

Key benefits in Madrid`s Boarding Schools for International Students

In Madrid, secondary education is not just about mastering Spanish, the world's second most popular language; it also involves learning English in a secure, welcoming, and academically advanced nation. This bilingual approach provides a robust educational foundation.

Students Life in Madrid 

Spain's warm climate, stunning beaches, and historical landmarks attract millions of tourists annually. Its southeastern European location, distant from military conflicts and severe natural disasters, is regarded as one of the world's safest areas. Spain's active development and modernization have made it a European leader in living standards.

Diverse Climate and Natural Beauty

Occupying the Iberian Peninsula and boasting varied climate zones, Spain offers hot summers and mild winters. Some regions enjoy over 300 sunny days a year. The moderate climate means heavy winter gear is mostly reserved for ski resort trips. Thanks to an efficient transport system, boarding schools in Madrid can easily organize trips across the country, like skiing in the Pyrenees or exploring Spain’s historical and cultural heritage.

Sports programs in Madrid`s Boarding Schools 

Spain excels in various sports disciplines, making sports education a key component of its boarding schools. The favorable climate allows year-round outdoor sports activities, including soccer, tennis, basketball, and golf.

Rich Art, Culture, and History

Studying in Madrid opens doors to the rich history, cultural heritage, and art of a great civilization. The country is home to top-tier galleries and museums, and its cities are filled with historically significant architectural sites. Boarding schools in Madrid, like GSD International School, offer extracurricular activities including dance, art, and more, alongside traditional sports offerings.

State-of-the-Art Campuses and Facilities

Spain has transformed into a destination for international education, with schools offering International Baccalaureate (IB), A-Level, and GCSE programs. These institutions maintain high educational standards and boast modern facilities like science labs, libraries, multimedia centers, music and art classes, theater studios, sports fields, and swimming pools. Students enjoy comfortable living accommodations, often with private bathrooms.

Esther Diaz

Education specialist, career coach and consultant. She worked for Inspired Education Group and directed the admissions department at the International School san Patricio Toledo.

What do parents consider when choosing a Spanish school, apart from the qualifications of teachers?

Foreign families often pay attention to inclusivity and national diversity, individualization of learning, emotional support for each student, compliance with safety protocols. Assess the level of immersion in the Spanish language and culture, the opportunity to get career / educational advice. Of course, they also look at the location, facilities and equipment of the campus - what are the sports facilities, how the Arts Center is equipped, whether there are e-learning opportunities. An added bonus is having personal development programs that will help students get the most out of their time at school and succeed.

Admission to Madrid's boarding schools requires a standard document package and proof of language proficiency and academic ability. The usual documentation includes:

• Copies of the child's identity documents

• Transcripts of the last two school years plus current grades

• Language proficiency proof

• Teacher recommendations (English, Mathematics) and sometimes a principal's letter

• Motivation letter (varies by school)

• Completed application and admission forms

Prospective students typically undergo an entrance exam in Maths and English, often via Skype, to assess their suitability for the program.

Compared to other major European cities, boarding school fees in Madrid are relatively affordable. Primary education in private schools ranges from €3,000 to €7,000 per year, while fees for middle and high school levels range from €8,000 to €20,000.

Spain's boarding schools offer more than just education; they provide a favorable climate, clean environment, and rich history, all contributing positively to a child's health and worldview. Additionally, Spain is known for its top-tier tennis and soccer schools, and higher education achievements are highly valued by institutions in the UK and the US.

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