I’ve recently seen many friends on the forums asking about choosing a school for their children, especially private schools here in Valencia. My child just started school last year, and we hit a few bumps along the way but also gained some experience. So today, I’m starting this thread to share what I’ve learned, hoping it can help parents who are currently in the decision-making process.
When choosing a private school, the main concerns are usually the curriculum, language environment, and tuition fees. Private schools in Valencia can be broadly categorized into a few types: international schools with purely British or American curricula, schools offering the IB program, and Spanish-led private schools with a strong emphasis on English. Personally, I feel that if you’re planning for your child to attend university in the UK or the US, choosing a British or American system school provides a smoother transition. If you want your child to integrate better into the local Spanish culture while maintaining a high level of English, a Spanish-led private school is also an excellent option.
Personal Thoughts on a Few Popular Schools
Caxton College
This school is very well-known, arguably the top choice for British education in the Valencia region. The campus environment is excellent, and the facilities are top-notch. They follow the authentic British National Curriculum, from nursery all the way through to A-Levels. The downside is, the tuition is expensive, and places are extremely limited, especially for the younger age groups. I heard the waiting list can be very long. When we inquired, we were told directly that there were no spots available, and even the waiting list was extensive.
American School of Valencia
This is a leading American-style school, and its IB program is a key feature. The school is highly international, with a diverse student body from many different countries, making it feel like a small United Nations. If you want your child to study in a very open and international atmosphere, ASV is definitely a top choice. They also offer a huge range of extracurricular activities. Similarly, the tuition isn’t cheap, and the application process is a bit complex, requiring interviews and assessments.
Below is a simple table I’ve put together with basic information on some of the most frequently asked-about schools. This information is from my own research, so please note that tuition fees can change annually. For more on Valencia private schools, always check the official websites for the most current information.
| School Name | Main Curriculum | Languages of Instruction | General Location |
|---|
| Caxton College | British | English, Spanish | Puzol |
| American School of Valencia | American, IB | English, Spanish | Puzol |
| British School of Valencia | British | English | Valencia City |
| Los Olivos | Spanish National, English focus | Spanish, English | Godella |
| Julio Verne | Spanish National, English focus | Spanish, English | Torrent |
Choosing a school for your child is a major undertaking. I strongly recommend that you plan ahead, browse the schools’ official websites thoroughly, and if possible, book a visit on an open day to get a feel for the atmosphere in person. Every family’s needs are different; there is no ‘best’ school, only the ‘most suitable’ one. I hope everyone successfully finds the right school for their child! Feel free to add your own experiences and discuss in the comments below!
