A Guide to Selecting the Perfect School for Your Children in Marbella

When deciding where to settle down, your child’s education is a crucial factor to consider. Marbella has a wide array of exceptional schools that provide enriching educational experiences for children, from their early years to graduation.

Things to Consider Before Choosing a School:

1. Language of Instruction: Marbella offers excellent private and public educational institutions that deliver instruction in both English and Spanish.
2. Commute: It’s important to think about how your child will commute to and from school. Selecting a school near your home can be a convenient option, especially considering the potential traffic on the N-340, particularly during the tourist-heavy summer months. To alleviate this concern, explore alternative routes from your home to the school, as they might be less congested and ensure a less stressful daily commute for you and your child.
3. Familiarize Yourself with the Education System: Understanding the distinctions between the Spanish Education System and the International Systems adopted by schools in Marbella is vital. You can find more information about this topic in our blog post.
4. Facilities, Rankings, and Activities: Take into account a school’s facilities, rankings, and after-school activities. Below, we provide a brief overview of some of the top schools in Marbella.
   

Top Schools in Marbella:

Swans International School: With a history spanning over 50 years, Swans School offers education to children aged 3 to 18. Following a British Curriculum parallel to the Spanish ESO system, students receive GCSE and ESO diplomas. They also have the option to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in years 12 and 13. The school emphasizes all-round development through a variety of clubs and activities, including the Debate team, the Duke of Edinburgh award, and numerous sports.

Aloha College Marbella: Located near the Aloha Golf Club in Nueva Andalucia, this private school provides bilingual education in Spanish and English to students aged 3 to 18. Aloha College offers an International Primary Curriculum adapted to the English National Curriculum, as well as GCSEs and a choice between IB or A-Levels. The school’s extensive campus includes spacious sports facilities, a science and arts block, fostering a multicultural environment for students.

English International College: Renowned for its outstanding examination results and rigorous teaching, the English International College follows the British curriculum for children aged 3 to 18. The school boasts excellent facilities, such as a Computer Lab, Music Studio, and a 25m swimming pool. With small class sizes not exceeding 20 students, personalized education is prioritized. After completing GCSEs, students have the opportunity to pursue A-Levels, providing a pathway to higher education in the UK.

Laude International College: Trusted by over 700 parents, Laude International College offers a choice between the British Curriculum, GCSEs, and A-Levels, or the Spanish Curriculum, ESO, and Baccalaureate. The school focuses on guiding students until their university acceptances. Impressive facilities include a football pitch, tennis court, and indoor gymnasium. An array of extracurricular activities, including various languages and creative subjects like piano or violin, are offered.

Colegio Alboran: Colegio Alboran offers bilingual education for children aged 3 to 18, providing personalized attention in an international environment with over 30 nationalities represented among the students. The school stands out with extraordinary facilities and activities, such as an Equestrian Club, semi-olympic pool, classes for seven different instruments, and French as a third language. Located in Las Chapas, the school benefits from a spacious campus.

The German School – Deutsche School Malaga: This bilingual school welcomes children aged 3 to 18, offering education in Spanish as the second language. The school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including theater and various sports. Situated in Ojen, it is conveniently located near the hills of Elviria.

Swedish School – Svenska Skolan Marbella: Nestled near Puerto Banus within the gated community of La Alzambra Vasari, the Swedish School of Marbella follows the Swedish curriculum for preschool and elementary school children. Older children, aged 13 to 18, participate in online education from schools based in Stockholm. The school prides itself on small classroom sizes, enabling personalized attention. Fantastic facilities, including a 25m pool, artificial turf for football, and a large garden for recreational activities, enhance the learning experience.

French School – École Française Internationale Marbella: The French School in Marbella provides education based on the French program for kindergarten and elementary school students. The school implements a trilingual system, where children learn in Spanish, English, and French in an immersive environment that fosters integration into a multicultural world. The school is conveniently situated on the Golden Mile.

Atlas American School: Located in Estepona, a short drive from Marbella, the Atlas school follows an American curriculum. The school offers excellent sports facilities and Spanish and French language programs, equipping students for university life in any country they choose.

Sotogrande International School: Situated in Sotogrande, approximately a 40-minute drive from Marbella, this school provides both day and boarding options for students aged 8 months to 18 years. Following the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, the school prepares children for life beyond the classroom. With English and Spanish as the primary languages, it serves as an international school.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right school for your children in Marbella involves considering factors such as language of instruction, commute, educational systems, facilities, rankings, and after-school activities. By exploring the diverse educational institutions available, like Swans International School, Aloha College Marbella, English International College, Laude International College, Colegio Alboran, The German School, Swedish School, French School, Atlas American School, and Sotogrande International School, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your child’s needs and aspirations. Invest in their future by selecting the ideal educational environment in Marbella.