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Have you ever thought about moving to Spain but have wondered about the school system and how it differs from the UK? Well, in Spain you are legally obliged to attend school from 6 years old in Primary school until 12 years when you then move on to Instituto (secondary school) until 16 years old. Children can start Infantil school from 3 years old until 5 years which is similar to a UK nursery and Primary school reception years and where, as parents, you will pay for the school materials and books even down to the toilet rolls and wet wipes. Once the children attend Primary school the school will provide the basic materials and books. In public schools children do not wear a uniform and there is definately a more relaxed approach in Spain to hairstyles and jewellery with pretty much anything goes. If you are worried about the language as parents, and for the children it helps that from the age of 3 years the children will have English classes so there will be at least 1 teacher in the school who can speak English, but for your children, learning a new language is a lot easier when they are young as their brains are like sponges absorbing information.

Of course there are plenty of private schools some of which follow the UK curriculum, which may be a better option for some families, particulary if you are not looking to stay in Spain permanently and learning the language will not be of such importance. In private schools they will find the transition easier and mix with other British and foreign children, however if your plan is to live in Spain long term I would highly recommend the benefits of sending your children to a local Spanish public school for them to completely immerse themselves in Spanish Culture and intergrate into the local community, where making Spanish friends will be a lot easier. Be prepared for plenty of birthday parties, fiestas and plenty of occasions for fancy dress costumes.