I’ve noticed many discussions on forums recently about choosing schools for children, with a particular interest in the northern Basque Country. I’ve just compiled some information about the international schools here, based on local education websites and parent reviews, hoping to offer a helpful reference.
While the Basque Country may not have the same concentration of schools as Madrid or Barcelona, the quality of education is exceptionally high, and the living environment is fantastic. Schools here generally emphasize small class sizes and personalized student development. Plus, due to its proximity to France, many schools offer outstanding multilingual programs.
A Rundown of Key International Schools
I’ve focused on several prominent international schools in the provinces of Biscay and Gipuzkoa. While Álava also has good options, they are discussed less frequently. Here are a few that parents talk about the most:
American School of Bilbao
This is arguably the most well-known international school in the Basque Country, located in the province of Biscay. It follows a pure American education system, offering a complete curriculum from kindergarten through high school, culminating in a dual-track program for both the American High School Diploma and the IB Diploma. The school boasts excellent facilities, a large campus, and a particularly strong sports program. The downside? The tuition is quite high, and admission is very competitive, requiring applications to be submitted well in advance.
St. George’s English School
This is another British international school in Biscay, offering the complete British National Curriculum from early years to A-Levels. The school has a strong academic atmosphere and is known for its consistently stable results in GCSE and A-Level exams. Many parents comment that the teachers are quite rigorous. This school is an excellent stepping stone if the future plan is for your child to attend university in the UK, a key consideration for families exploring Basque international schools.
The English School of San Sebastián
Located in San Sebastián, this school represents Gipuzkoa province. It also follows the British curriculum but is smaller than the previous two, feeling more like a close-knit family. The advantages of small class sizes are fully realized here, with teachers knowing almost every student by name. It might be a more suitable choice for families who want their children to grow in a more attentive environment.
To provide a more direct comparison, I’ve created a simple table summarizing the key information for these schools. Of course, this is just a general guide. It’s essential to visit the official school websites for detailed information and, if possible, schedule a visit during an Open Day to get a real feel for the place.
| School Name | Province | Main Curriculum | Key Features |
|---|
| American School of Bilbao | Biscay | American Curriculum, IB | Top-tier facilities, strong in sports, high tuition |
| St. George’s English School | Biscay | British Curriculum | Academically rigorous, good university placement rate |
| The English School | Gipuzkoa | British Curriculum | Smaller scale, welcoming atmosphere |
The international schools in the Basque Country each have their own unique strengths. Choosing a school is a major decision and shouldn’t be based on rankings alone. I recommend that you consider your own educational philosophy, your child’s personality, and your family’s budget. Are there any parents whose children are already enrolled in these schools? Please feel free to add more details and share your experiences!
