I’ve been looking at schools for my little one recently. There are quite a few good international schools in Barcelona, but having so many options makes the decision-making process quite overwhelming. I’d heard many friends recommend BSB for its excellent facilities and academics. Last week, I finally booked an Open Day and took my child for a visit. I’m back to share some fresh firsthand information as a reference for other parents going through the same process.
We visited the main BSB campus in Castelldefels, which serves primary and secondary students. The first impression upon entering the campus was great—it’s very open and has beautiful green spaces. The facilities are truly as impressive as they say, with a modern swimming pool, theater, science labs, and sports fields. As the teacher showed us around, we saw children of different ages engaged in activities in their respective areas. The atmosphere felt very relaxed and lively, not a stern, rigid academic environment. The students mostly interacted in English, which should be a big plus for families wanting an immersive English environment for their children.
Curriculum and Teaching
BSB follows the British National Curriculum, providing a continuous path from primary through to A-Levels in high school. This was a key point for me, as A-Level results are widely recognized globally, opening up broader university options for my child in the UK, the US, or elsewhere. I spoke with a few teachers during the tour, and they seemed very passionate about teaching. They also emphasized cultivating critical thinking and independent learning skills, rather than rote memorization. They mentioned a wide range of extracurricular activities, such as drama, programming, sailing, and a debate club, which seems great for discovering a child’s interests.
Application and Fees
Here comes the part everyone is most curious about. The application process is clearly outlined on their official website. It mainly involves submitting an application form, the child’s school reports, and passport copies. Afterwards, the school will arrange an assessment, which varies by age group. For younger children, it consists of observation and simple interaction, a process you might also find at schools like [SEK International School]. Older children will have written tests and an interview. The admissions officer mentioned that spots are always in high demand, especially for key entry years, so I’d strongly advise applying as early as possible! As for the fees, they are indeed not cheap and are on the higher end for international schools in Barcelona. I’ve put together an approximate fee range for reference:
| Grade Level | Approximate Fee Range (€) |
|---|
| Early Years | 10,000 - 12,000 |
| Primary | 12,000 - 15,000 |
| Secondary | 15,000 - 18,000 |
| Sixth Form | 18,000+ |
Overall, the school visit was a very positive experience. BSB’s facilities, teaching staff, and academic atmosphere left a deep impression on me. Of course, the tuition fees are also a significant factor to consider. Every family’s needs and budget are different. I recommend that if you are interested, you should definitely attend an Open Day to experience the environment for yourself and talk to teachers and students, which is a great way to evaluate any of the [international schools in Barcelona]. Are there any other parents on this forum who are familiar with BSB or other [international schools in Barcelona]? Feel free to join the discussion!
