Private school vs public school.

Schools on Costa del Sol: Private vs. Public Education

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the biggest decisions a parent can make. If you’re living in or moving to the sunny Costa del Sol in Andalucía, Spain, you’ll find a range of schooling options, each with its own benefits.

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at public and private schools in the area, helping you decide which might be the best fit for your family.

Public Schools: Learning the Local Way
Public schools in Andalucía are funded by the government and are free for residents. They follow the national Spanish curriculum, with classes usually taught in Spanish. Many schools now offer bilingual programs in English, which can be helpful for expat families.

Why choose a public school?
• Cost: Education is free, and many schools offer subsidized meals.
• Cultural immersion: Students live and learn fully in a Spanish-speaking environment, which is great if you
want your child to embrace local culture.
• Community: Public schools often have strong ties to the local neighborhood, giving children a sense of
belonging.
Things to consider:
• Class sizes: Some schools have large classes, which can limit one-on-one attention.
• Resources: Facilities and extracurricular options can vary depending on the school and municipality.
• Language: Non-Spanish speaking children may face a learning curve, though bilingual programs help bridge
the gap.

Private Schools: A World of Options
Private schools, including international and bilingual schools, offer a different approach. These schools charge tuition and often cater to expat families, offering British, American, French, German, or International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula.
Why choose a private school?
• Smaller classes: More individual attention for each child.
• Flexible curriculum: Ideal for children who may move internationally or want an English-language
education.
• Modern facilities and extracurriculars: Many private schools have strong programs in sports, arts,
and technology.
• Language support: Non-Spanish speakers often find it easier to settle in, thanks to bilingual or Englishbased teaching.
Things to consider:
• Cost: Tuition can be significant, ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of euros per year.
• Integration: Some international schools may have less exposure to Spanish culture.
• Location: Private schools may be further from where you live, making commuting a consideration.
Which One is Right for Your Child?
It really comes down to your family’s priorities:
• Budget: Public schools are free, while private schools require financial investment.
• Curriculum and language: Think about whether your child would benefit more from a local Spanish
curriculum or a bilingual/international program.
• Community experience: Public schools give a deeper local connection, while private schools often
provide a multicultural environment.

Final Thoughts
The Costa del Sol offers a wide variety of educational options, from traditional Spanish public schools to internationally
focused private institutions. By weighing the benefits and considerations of each, you can find the school that best fits your child’s needs and your family’s lifestyle.