Education and Schools in Madrid

While there are a range of schools in Madrid, for the most part, expats and the wealthier locals tend to send their children to private or international schools which offer higher standards and a greater variety of extra-curricular activities. 

Public Schools in Madrid

Public schools in Spain are free to all citizens and registered expats. These schools have a high standard of education, but are mostly attended by locals because classes are taught in Spanish. These institutions can be good options for young expat children who are able to pick up the language more easily, but it can be challenging for older students to attend classes taught in Spanish. It is also an option worth considering for families who are looking to move to Spain permanently.

Semi-private and private schools in Madrid

Many madrileños send their young students to semi-private Catholic schools, which are subsidised by the government and form an important part of the system of education in Spain. Tuition at these institutions is often much less expensive than European private schools, but subsidised schools also teach Spanish curricula in the Spanish language, and can be similarly difficult for newly arrived expat children. 

Independent private schools in Madrid can be bilingual, but tend to be on the expensive side. These schools can cost thousands of euros a year and expat parents should be aware that some of them might refer to themselves as international schools while teaching the Spanish curricula in a foreign language. These schools tend to be more popular with the locals than the expat community.

International schools in Madrid

There are plenty of international schools in Madrid that uphold both the teaching language and curricula of countries such as the US, UK and Germany. These schools are more experienced in accommodating students who have previously studied different curricula and act as an effective bridge between a student's home country and their new environment. 

All reputable schools of this kind are registered with the embassy of their home country. Many international schools have long waiting lists, and expat families are encouraged to enrol their children well before the school year begins.

Special-needs education in Madrid

While the Spanish government requires Spanish schools to attempt to educate special-needs children, and gives grants to schools with specially trained teachers, not all schools are equipped to help these children. Children needing high levels of assistance may be placed in special-needs schools, or regular schools with special-needs teachers. Grants may also be given to families to help with the cost of treatments. 

Tutoring in Madrid

There are many private home tutors available to teach expat children in Madrid. Specific companies in Madrid register private tutors, and expats can therefore apply for a tutor through them. Two such companies are Preply and Apprentus. Alternatively, expats can search online for a tutor. Many tutors also offer online sessions. 

Tutors generally offer school support and reinforce what is being taught in class. This can especially be helpful for students trying to adjust to a new school, or curriculum. Expat children attending any of the Spanish language schools should also consider a tutor to help them adapt to learning in the language.