As a newcomer to Madrid, I’ve recently been looking at schools for my child, and it’s been quite overwhelming. I had heard from friends that some great Madrid private schools cost only a few hundred euros a month, which sounded unbelievable at first. After doing some research, I discovered that what people often refer to as ‘private’ are mostly Concertado schools, which are state-subsidized, semi-private institutions.
Concertado schools are indeed a unique model. They are run by private entities but receive government funding and supervision for their curriculum and teaching staff. In exchange for lower Madrid private school fees, the government pays the teachers’ salaries and the school’s basic operational costs. So, in theory, compulsory education at these schools is free, just like in public schools. In reality, however, schools collect various fees, such as ‘voluntary’ donations, charges for supplementary activities, lunch, school bus services, and so on. It’s very common for all these costs to add up to several hundred euros a month. So, when people mention ‘fees of a few hundred euros,’ they’re actually referring to these additional charges, not tuition fees in the strict sense.
So, are these Concertado schools worth it? I think it really depends on the family. Compared to purely public schools, their facilities, teacher stability, and overall learning atmosphere are often better, and their management is stricter. And when compared to fully private international schools like Hastings School that can cost tens of thousands of euros a year, the value for money of a Concertado is outstanding. For an average family like ours, wanting a more refined education than what public schools offer without the heavy financial burden, a Concertado is indeed a great compromise.
How to Choose a Concertado School
Choosing one isn’t simple, though. There are so many Concertado schools in Madrid, and their teaching quality and reputation vary widely. I’ve done some research recently and summarized a few key factors that most people consider. Here’s a simple table for reference:
| Factor to Consider | Description |
|---|
| Religious Affiliation | Many Concertados are Catholic schools and will have religion classes and activities. |
| Language Programs | Whether it’s a bilingual school and the quality of English or other language instruction. |
| University Entrance Rate | Especially the university admission rate after the Bachillerato stage. |
| Location | Proximity to home, availability of a school bus, and its cost. |
| Additional Fees | The actual monthly amount required for ‘donations’ and various service fees. |
It’s entirely possible to find a good quality ‘private’ school in Madrid for just a few hundred euros a month. The key is to understand the Concertado model and then visit schools in person and ask around to find one that fits your family’s specific situation and needs. Has anyone else sent their children to this type of school? I’d love to hear about your experiences and any schools you’d recommend!
