SCHOOLS IN THE COSTA BLANCA
DAMPIER INTERNATIONAL GUIDE TO SCHOOLS ON THE COSTA BLANCA
The Alicante province sits at the heart of the Costa Blanca in Spain and has always been a popular destination for foreign nationals. It is especially well-liked by British expats looking for sun, sea, sand, and a laid-back lifestyle.
People from all walks of life make up this sizable expat community and because there are so many young families there are many excellent international schools to cater for children of all ages.
Apart from the international schools the public education system in Spain is highly regarded and open to anyone. It is mandatory and free for all children aged between 6-16 years old.Being registered in the town hall (Ayuntamiento) with a "Padron" is enough for enrolment. A state school might be a wise choice if you have young children and intend to live in the country for the long term as they will be immersed in a world where education is of the highest calibre.
One thing to bear in mind is that although Spanish (Castellano) is the primary language of instruction, the Valencian language (Valenciano) is a co-official language in the Costa Blanca and learning Valenciano is compulsory in most public schools with many classes taught in this language.
However, an international school might be a better option if your children have already started school in another country or you intend to move somewhere else in the future.
Although Spanish is the language of instruction in public schools, English is the primary language of instruction at many of Alicante's international schools. Nonetheless, bilingualism is promoted, and your child will always have the choice of learning Spanish. You will find that the Spanish national curriculum is often offered alongside the British curriculum in many of these schools, giving your children greater options.
Despite having some of the lowest tuition costs in Europe, the international schools in the Alicante Province continue to provide education of the highest quality. So for young families, making your expat dreams a reality here in Spain is a great choice because of the lower costs for education, a superb climate, and a friendly local and international community.
International Schools on the Costa Blanca
Here is a list of some of the best international schools in Costa Blanca (Alicante):
King's College - The British School of Alicante
Located on the outskirts of Alicante, this is one of the most respected British schools in Spain, educating children from Nursery (3 years old) to the Baccalaureate level (18 years old). The school follows the English National Curriculum and Spanish Curriculum with bilingual education in English and Spanish.
Founded in 1991 and situated in Elche, Alicante, this school offers education from the early years to the Spanish Baccalaureate level. In Early Years and Primary Education model, it follows the British Curriculum. The secondary education and Baccalaureate program meet the requirements of the Spanish Educational System. The Valencian language is being taught in the Early Years program and by the sixth year additional German lessons are available to further develop language skills.
The Primary and Secondary Schools of the Lady Elizabeth School are on one campus in Benitachell, Alicante. This highly respected school was founded in 1987 and offers both English and Spanish curriculum's. It is among the most exclusive English language schools in Spain with graduates able to apply to universities in the UK and the rest of Europe.
Xàbia International College (XIC) admits students from pre-nursery to Sixth Form and follows the British National Curriculum as well as the Spanish Curriculum. It is the only international school in Jávea for students from 2 to 18 years. The school was founded in 1994 to provide a quality education based on the English National Curriculum, within an international environment.The college is divided into 3 sites in Jávea educating Infants, Juniors, and Secondary.
Phoenix International School is in San Miguel de Salinas on the Costa Blanca and a great option for pupils from Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, and surrounding areas.The small and friendly school follows the British National Curriculum and caters to pupils from ages 4 to 18. It is divided into stages of Early Years, Primary, Secondary, and College.
The Sierra Bernia School is an outstanding high school and was founded in 1973 and is known as the oldest British School on the Costa Blanca. It is located in Alfaz del Pi close to Benidorm and follows the British curriculum for pupils of all nationalities aged from 3 to 18 years.
Altea International School (AIS)
The Altea International School was founded in 2012 and is located inland near La Nucia. AIS is a British International School with a Steiner-Waldorf approach, a teaching philosophy that enables children to become their true selves, to be good citizens and to contribute to society and be a strong force for good in the world.
Skandinaviska Skolan - Costa Blanca
The Skandinaviska Skolan is on the Orihuela Costa, Alicante, and operates as a primary school from preschool to year 9.This small school caters for mostly Swedish, Norwegian, and Finnish students and follows the Swedish curriculum. Students also receive instruction in Spanish and English from the first year.
Den NorskeSkole Costa Blanca – Costa Blanca Norwegian School
Located in Alicante, Alfaz del Pi, the Norwegian School Costa Blanca was established in 1972 and offers education for Primary and Secondary levels. It is among the best high schools in Spain following the Norwegian curriculum. This is a private school with state support, approved by the Norwegian authorities.
El Liceo Francés – Lycée Français Alicante
The Lycée Français has been operating in El Campello, Alicante, for more than 50 years and educates students from 3 years old to Baccalaureate (17-18 years old). The school offers a multilingual education (trilingual from 3 years old) promoting culture and sports. It is covered by the Agency for French Teaching Abroad (AEFE).
To find out more about international education here in Spain, please click the following link:
International Schools Database (international-schools-database.com)