When re-locating to Spain most parents primary concern is where to educate their children. It is now increasingly common to change schools in the UK. However, changing schools in the same country is one thing - changing the country, as well as the school, is quite another. For many students, adapting to a new culture is stimulating, although possibly a bit daunting at first. They are likely to share a classroom with pupils of varying nationalities and backgrounds which is both healthy and educational. The Spanish state schools have undergone dramatic changes and their standards are equal to those in the rest of Europe. State education is free, but parents must usually pay for textbooks and materials, although in certain cases they are provided free. Uniforms are generally not worn. Most children in the Primary schools who live close to the school tend to go home for lunch. Those that stay in school for lunch tend to have school dinners as not all schools allow packed lunches. For most Spanish children, school starts with nursery or pre-school at the age of 4 or 5. The normal registration period for all ages is in May for the following September, and is usually done via the local town hall, or sometimes by applying directly to a school. The process of paperwork required varies from area to area, therefore it is important to visit your local town hall of the area you are moving to, to find out what their particular requirements are. You will need to be registered at the town hall as a local resident, and for this you will need proof that you own or are renting a property within the area. You will also need your child’s birth certificate. Compulsory education begins at the age of 6 in the primary school and lasts for six years. Classes are always mixed, the concept of ‘streaming’ is not used. In some primary schools there are integration schemes whereby non-Spanish speaking children are given extra language classes to help them to settle in. From year three children are introduced to termly exams, but there is no equivalent to National testing in the Spanish system. At the age of 12, students move to Secondary school and as in the primary school they are tested throughout each term. Upon reaching their final year they receive a school-leaving certificate. Those students who have not reached a high enough level of results may need to repeat the final year in order to receive the leaving certificate. At the age of 16 Students are then given the option of studying for a further two years for their ‘Baccalaureate’. Attending a local state school helps children integrate into the local community and learn the language and is highly recommended if you plan to stay in Spain indefinitely. The academic year runs from mid-September to the third week of June. The main holidays are at Christmas, Easter and the long summer break. There are no half-term holidays, but there are short breaks throughout the year which are organized around national and regional festivals. School hours vary depending on the school. Most secondary schools have now adopted a blocked timetable, whereas school starts at 8.30 a.m. and finishes at 2 p.m. In order for a child to enroll in a Spanish school, an interview is required, and sometimes an examination which will test the child’s knowledge. New arrivals in Spain must have their children’s education record. Overall, moving your child /children to Spain can be very rewarding and in most cases is successful. The children not only learn another language which is a great asset to their future, but they also learn about other cultures and mix with a variety of children from other nationalities. Information about schools in the area: British School of Alicante - The BSA is dedicated to providing an education of the highest quality for our students. Children are encouraged to do their best at whatever they attempt, and to achieve their full potential in all areas. Our staff set the very highest standards, not only academically, but also in terms of behaviour and social skills Sierra Bernia - Sierra Bernia is a privately owned coeducational day school offering British education from 3 to 18 years to pupils of all nationalities. The school is fully authorised by the relevant ministries for both foreign and Spanish nationals. Founded in 1973, Sierra Bernia is situated in a quiet residential area close to the village of Alfaz Del Pi with easy access to the main Benidorm/ Altea coast road and also the motorway. Newton College - A private non grant maintained British School, founded in 1991 and is a member of N.A.B.S.S; E.C.I.S. and A.C.A.D.E.. The School offers a full British Primary Curriculum complemented by the obligatory subjects of the Spanish Curriculum required by the Spanish Ministry of Education and the Royal Decree regarding foreign schools in Spain. Schooling - SPECIAL NEEDS ALPE (Association Comarcal Para La Rehabilitacion Del Deficiente) is a Spanish school based in Torrevieja for children with special needs. There is also a school in Alicante. ALPE specialize in teaching children between the ages of 3 and 18, and covers a wide range of learning difficulties. You are welcome to visit the school at any time between 9.00am and 4.30pm, where they will be happy to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. They will also be happy to show you round and introduce your child to the school and to the Spanish way of teaching, so that the change of school will not be so dramatic for your child. If you and your child are happy with the school, then the process of applying can start. Your child will need to be assessed by a doctor in Almoradi and the report will then be sent to the school to enable the teachers to ensure the best teaching for your child. The cost of the schooling for the first year is approximately 76 Euros, however, you can apply to Alicante for a refund. This price includes mini bus pickups and lunch. The school will help you with the enrolment procedure and any other issues. Amba Sun International offer an After Sales Gold service which includes help with all of the above.