Understanding Spain's educational landscape: public, concertado, and private schools

If you are relocating to Spain with children, selecting the right school is one of the most critical decisions you will face. This article explores the differences among the three primary types of educational institutions in Spain: public schools, concertado schools, and private schools.

Spain's educational system comprises three main categories of schools, each with distinct characteristics that can significantly influence your child's learning experience.

Public schools

Public schools in Spain are state-run institutions that provide free education to students. This concept may be perplexing for those from the UK, where public schools are often prestigious institutions that charge tuition. In Spain, public schools aim to offer a standardized curriculum, ensuring a common educational foundation for all students. The focus on neutrality promotes values of equality and social cohesion, preparing children to engage with diverse backgrounds.

Concertado schools

Concertado schools represent a unique blend of public and private education. These are state-subsidized institutions that typically charge moderate fees, averaging between €680 and €860 per year. Defined by the Royal Spanish Academy as privately owned educational centers that enter into agreements with public administration, concertados can introduce their own ideologies and teaching methods. This flexibility can be both advantageous and disadvantageous, depending on the school's focus.

While public schools provide a uniform curriculum, concertados may offer a more personalized learning environment. This can be particularly beneficial for students with special needs, as these schools often have smaller class sizes, allowing for individualized attention.

Additionally, some concertados are religious schools, primarily Catholic, which may appeal to families seeking a faith-based education for their children.

Class size and facilities

Class size significantly impacts the level of personalized attention students receive. Public schools generally have larger class sizes, which can hinder individualized support. In contrast, concertados benefit from smaller classes, fostering a more tailored educational experience.

The quality of facilities in public schools can vary widely, influenced by factors such as government budgets and the age of the institution. Concertados, often benefiting from additional funding, typically offer improved facilities and specialized extracurricular programs.

Academic performance

Recent statistics reveal a notable difference in academic performance between public and concertado schools. For instance, the rate of students needing to repeat a year is 9.2 percent in public schools, compared to 4.3 percent in concertados and private institutions. This disparity highlights how various factors—including socioeconomic background and teaching methods—can shape educational outcomes.

Private schools

Private schools in Spain, including international options, present a distinct alternative to both public and concertado institutions. Tuition for private schools can range from €6,000 to €12,000 per year, with some elite institutions charging upwards of €30,000. Unlike their public counterparts, private schools are not required to adhere to a specific curriculum, offering flexibility that can include British, French, or American educational frameworks.

While private schools can provide superior facilities and educational resources, they may also pose challenges for integration into Spanish society. Students in these institutions might find it harder to make local friends and develop proficiency in Spanish.

Ultimately, the choice between public, concertado, and private schools in Spain hinges on various factors, including your child's learning style, the desired focus of the school, and your family's financial situation. Each option presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to carefully consider what aligns best with your child's needs and your family's goals.