ONE OF THE MOST crucial aspects for parents to consider when moving a family to Spain or relocating to the Orihuela Costa is exploring the options available to continue (or begin) their children's education.
In this article, we'll explore the structure of the education system, the types of schools available in Orihuela Costa, and the legal and social facets that all parents need to know about before making decisions about their children's schooling in Spain.
What are the ages for school in Spain?
Education in Spain is compulsory between ages the ages of 6 and 16 years. There isn't a minimum age for starting school voluntarily, and many parents choose to enrol their children in a preschool education centre.
Infant Education (Educación Infantil)
The earliest years of the Spanish education system are divided into two parts: the first, for children under 3 years old, and the second, for children between 3 and 6 years.
Primary Education (Educación Primaria)
Primary education is an educational stage that includes six academic years for children between 6 and 12. These studies are carried out in an Early Childhood and Primary Education Center (Centro de Educación Infantil y Primaria, or “CEIP”).
Secondary Education (Educación Secundaria Obligatoria)
The Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) stage includes four course years for children between the ages of 13 and 16 years. Secondary education is divided into two parts: one cycle of three years and one final academic year.
Upon completing their secondary education, students who have achieved the basic skills and objectives of the stage will obtain the title of Graduate in Compulsory Secondary Education (Graduado en Educación Secundaria Obligatoria, or “GESO”).
Is education free in Spain? Are schools free?
State education is free for all children aged 6 to 16 years. Infant Education between the ages of 3 and 6 years is provided free of charge in the Valencian Community.
However, in all cases, parents or students are expected to meet schooling costs, such as purchasing school supplies and textbooks required to complete academic stages.
Private schools in Orihuela Costa
Some parents consider that the experience of the local education system is a valuable aspect of living abroad, providing a unique cultural experience, enabling them to make friends more easily, and fostering a rapid uptake of the Spanish language.
However, all children are unique, and some parents might prefer to look at options for private education in Spain.
Typically, private education in Spain offers several advantages:
- A familiar national curriculum and instruction style.
- Reduced, or in many cases, eliminated language barriers.
- Smaller class sizes with a better pupil-teacher ratio.
- Personalised tuition from allocated teachers.
- Maintaining high standards of discipline.
- A higher degree of parental involvement.
On the other hand, Spanish state schools typically offer several advantages:
- Direct and immediate social integration within the local community.
- Less costly, state schools are fully-funded by central and regional government.
- A better choice of extracurricular and after-school activities.
- Comprehensive services such as school meals and bus transport.
- Larger, more comprehensive purpose-built facilities.
- No admission examination.
Additionally, annual admission fees for private education in this part of the South Costa Blanca range from €4,500 to €8,000 each school year. Parents will need to balance the advantages of each educational environment with the financial commitment required by the private school system.
Follow this link for more information about the private school system in Orihuela Costa, and a complete list of the private schools in the South Costa Blanca region.
Public state schools in Orihuela Costa
Here's a list of all Spanish state schools in the local area, with Google Maps and contact information.
CEIP Colegio Público Playas de Orihuela
Public-funded Valencian government state school offering primary education in Spanish to children of all nationalities.
- Location: Playa Flamenca, Orihuela Costa
- Education stages: From 6-12 years
- Website: portal.edu.gva.es
- Tel: +34 966 904 215
GOOGLE MAP | EMAIL | FACEBOOK
CEIP Los Dolses
Public-funded Valencian government state school offering primary education in Spanish to children of all nationalities.
- Location: Los Dolses, Orihuela Costa
- Education stages: From 6-12 years
- Website: colegiolosdolses.wixsite.com
- Tel: +34 966 904 210
GOOGLE MAP | EMAIL | FACEBOOK
CEIP Colegio Público Romualdo Ballester
Public-funded Valencian government state school offering primary education in Spanish to children of all nationalities.
- Location: Los Altos, Torrevieja
- Education stages: From 6-12 years
- Website: portal.edu.gva.es
- Tel: +34 965 290 155
GOOGLE MAP | EMAIL | FACEBOOK
IES Playa Flamenca
Public-funded Valencian government state institute offering secondary education in Spanish to children of all nationalities.
- Location: Playa Flamenca, Orihuela Costa
- Education stages: From 12-16 years
- Website: portal.edu.gva.es
- Tel: +34 966 748 385
GOOGLE MAP | EMAIL | FACEBOOK
The school system and education in Orihuela Costa
With its structured approach and diverse schooling options, the Spanish education system strives to provide a comprehensive education programme to all children.
The focus on not just academic excellence, but also extracurricular and personal development, ensures that students are well-prepared to face the life challenges ahead.
Ongoing reforms and a commitment to school improvement signify Spain's dedication to nurturing a well-rounded, knowledgeable, and skilled future generation.
Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.
