Lately, I’ve seen many new members on the forum asking about schooling for their children, especially how to choose an international school for the primary years. My child just started primary school here in Madrid, and I was completely overwhelmed with the school selection process. I researched all the major international schools thoroughly, so I’m writing this post to share some personal experience. Hope it helps those in need.
There are quite a few international schools in Madrid, but their systems vary widely, mainly falling into British, American, and IB curricula. The choice of curriculum basically determines your child’s future university path, so this is the first crucial decision to make when considering options like the [ICS International School of Madrid] or other [international schools in Madrid]. For example, if you’re aiming for UK universities, the British system is a natural fit. If the US is the goal, the American high school curriculum and AP exams are more important. The IB system is globally recognized, but it demands strong all-around abilities from students and can be academically more stressful.
Personal Views on a Few Popular Schools
British School Representatives: Runnymede College & Hastings School
Runnymede is considered the gold standard of British education in Madrid. It’s academically rigorous with a high Oxbridge acceptance rate. However, it’s located in La Moraleja, a typical affluent area, so both the tuition and ‘social circle’ costs are high, and getting a spot is incredibly difficult. Hastings School, on the other hand, has more campuses in different areas and is slightly more affordable. Its academic atmosphere is also excellent, making it a great value-for-money option.
American School Representative: The American School of Madrid
ASM is the most established American school in Madrid. It boasts top-notch facilities, a huge campus, and a wide range of activities—it seems like a place where kids would be very happy. The curriculum is entirely American, and most teachers are from the US. The downside? It’s expensive, very expensive! Also, the location of this and many other [international schools in Madrid] can be a factor; ASM is in Pozuelo, which can be a major commute for families living in the city center or the north. When I visited, it felt like a small American community.
Here’s a simple comparison table for a more direct overview:
| School Name | Main Curriculum | Approx. Annual Fee | Location |
|---|
| Runnymede College | British | 12,000 - 15,000€ | La Moraleja |
| Hastings School | British | 9,000 - 12,000€ | Multiple campuses |
| American School of Madrid | American | 15,000 - 20,000€+ | Pozuelo de Alarcón |
| International College Spain | IB | 13,000 - 16,000€ | La Moraleja |
There’s no ‘best’ school, only the most suitable one for your child. I highly recommend taking your child to the school’s Open Day to get a feel for the campus atmosphere and the teachers. Also, apply as early as possible! Many popular schools have waiting lists that require you to apply a year or two in advance. I hope this information is helpful, and I welcome other parents to add their thoughts and join the discussion!
