English primary classes in Spain for international students

Among the foreign students the secondary education in Spain is very popular due to extremely high appreciation and widespread recognition. In primary schools in Spain there are created all necessary conditions for mastering an additional foreign language. The leading Spanish private schools tend to focus on learning a foreign language in the framework of teaching, and therefore, only experienced and highly qualified teachers are allowed to teach.

As interesting fact, the number of the Spanish-speaking population among all countries of the world exceeds millions of people. Thus, having an excellent command of the Spanish language, a graduate of an advanced foreign university will be in great demand on the international labor market and will be able to get a promising position not only in Spain, but also in other Latin American countries.

In the primary schools in Spain the studying is conducted in English, which has a status of international language, and in Spanish, the teaching of which is possible as foreign language. Primary education in a Spanish school develops the skills of oral and written speech, reading, counting, expands knowledge about the basic concepts of culture, history, teaches to find a common language with different members of society. It instills the habit of perceiving someone else's creativity of harmless criticism and finding pleasure in creating a new one and to respect other people's opinions and be able to express your own.

In the classroom, children take notes on the topic on their own, notebooks are not checked. Classes last for 60 minutes, a change in schools is one, lasts 30 minutes. The children study from Monday to Friday, from 8.00-14.30.

­Subjects in primary school are seven:

• MEDI – synthesis of history and natural science;
• Mathematics;
• Painting;
• Letter;
• Inventem — literally translates as "inventing", a combination of the basics of chemistry and physics;
• Physical education;
• Gardening.

In schools, the students and teachers speak three languages: Spanish, Catalan and English. From the third grade, a foreign language is introduced, the subject is taught, as a rule, by a native speaker. The first stage ends with exams, according to the results of which classes are formed from children with similar abilities.

Exceptional emphasis is placed on state-of-the-art facilities within the leading private secondary schools in Spain. These institutions consistently enhance their academic buildings and classrooms, underscoring their commitment to top-notch education. Primary schools cater to children as young as 3 years old, provided there are guardian or parental figures residing in Spain.

Prominent boarding schools in Spain often boast specialized outdoor spaces and courtyards for classroom use, with physical education classes frequently conducted in open-air settings. Opting for secondary education in Spain affords foreign students a remarkable opportunity to immerse themselves in the traditions, daily life, and sunny allure of this friendly nation.

Spanish education is structured into two key phases: primary and secondary. The former spans six years, commencing at age 6, while the latter comprises four years and is entered at age 11. The secondary education journey culminates at age 16, presenting graduates with a pivotal choice—transition into the workforce or embark on two additional years of study to prepare for admission to prestigious universities within Spain or other countries. Those aiming for successful careers may need to pursue vocational courses at a Spanish vocational school.

For a successful entry into a private primary school in Spain, prospective students must assemble the requisite documents and demonstrate the necessary language and academic proficiencies. The following documents are typically necessary for enrollment:

• Copy of a foreign passport

• Academic transcripts covering the last two years

• International language certification

• Recommendation letters from Mathematics and English teachers

• In some instances, a motivation letter may be required

• Completion of registration and school forms

• Participation in a Skype interview or an in-person visit to the educational institution.

It's important to note that this list isn't exhaustive; foreign students are often required to undergo internal school assessments in mathematics and English to determine their readiness for enrollment in prestigious private secondary schools in Spain.

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.

When is the best time to apply to schools in Spain? What should applicants prepare for?

It is strongly recommended to deal with this issue in advance, about 8 months before the desired start of study - places are usually limited. In addition, you will need time to understand the visa intricacies. If you want to start in September, you should take care of the application in January-February.

The comprehensive cost of secondary education in Spain, encompassing full-board accommodation, ranges between 25,000 to 40,000 euros annually. Throughout the year, parents might need to allocate an additional 100 to 300 euros for expenses not covered by the school, such as educational materials and extracurricular activities.

Advantages of Spanish Schools for Educational Pursuits

Choosing to study in Spanish schools offers several distinct advantages:

• Cost-effectiveness relative to institutions in the USA and the UK

• Gateway to enrollment in European or American universities

• Personalized and tailored approach to learning, fostering individual growth and development.

Primary education in Spain includes two main stages: kindergarten (Educación Infantil) and primary school (Educación Primaria). Kindergarten is intended for children from 0 to 6 years old and provides initial learning and development. The primary school provides a more formalized education and accepts children aged 6 to 12 years. Thus, primary education in Spain lasts 6 years: 3 years of kindergarten and 3 years of primary school.

The schedule of lessons and holidays in primary school depends on the specific educational institution and region, but usually lessons are held from Monday to Friday, and there are also lunch breaks during the school day. Typically, the school year begins in September and ends in June, with summer and winter holidays.

The main language of instruction in primary schools in Spain is Spanish, but in some regions lessons are also provided in regional languages such as Catalan, Basque or Galician, according to local norms and preferences.

In primary school in Spain, students study a variety of subjects, including Spanish, mathematics, science, social studies, art, physical education, a foreign language (usually English), and religious and moral studies.

There are many opportunities for further education in Spain. Additional classes and courses may include various subjects, sports and art disciplines, as well as educational programs of interest, such as robotics or music.

In Spanish primary schools, assessment is carried out on a scale from 1 to 10, where 10 is the maximum score, and 5 is considered the minimum for passing the subject. This system helps parents and students evaluate academic progress.

In primary school, regular assessments and tests are usually carried out to assess students' knowledge. There are also national standardized tests, such as the Evaluación de Diagnóstico, that measure student progress.

Yes, foreign children have the right to attend primary school in Spain. There are special programs and classes for learning Spanish as a second language. Foreign children are provided with support and assistance in adapting to a new educational system and culture.

Deadlines for submitting applications to enroll your child in primary school may vary depending on the region and the specific school. The process usually begins in early spring before the start of the new school year. Parents should closely monitor filing dates and requirements in their region.

For children with special educational needs in Spain, there are individual educational programs (Programas de Educación Individualizada - PEI), which are developed taking into account the needs of each child. These programs provide personalized support and educational adaptations, including special classes and resources.