Recently, I’ve seen many discussions in online forums among friends who have just moved to Spain about their children’s schooling, especially the dilemma of choosing between public, semi-private, and fully private schools. Speaking from experience—and having made my share of mistakes—I’d like to share what I’ve learned about Spanish private schools to offer some guidance.
The Two Types of ‘Private’ Schools in Spain: Concertado vs. Privado
First, it’s essential to understand a key concept: there are two main types of private schools in Spain: Colegio Concertado and Colegio Privado. A ‘Concertado’ school is a partnership between the government and a private institution. The government provides partial funding, making tuition fees relatively low. However, their curriculum and holiday schedules must generally align with public schools. In contrast, a ‘Privado’ school is entirely operated by private individuals or corporations. They have a high degree of autonomy, allowing them to define everything from their curriculum to the language of instruction. Naturally, their tuition fees are the most expensive.
Comparing Costs and Teaching Models
To make the comparison clearer, I’ve created a simple table:
| Feature | Colegio Concertado | Colegio Privado |
|---|
| Tuition | Lower, typically ranging from tens to a few hundred euros per month | Expensive, starting from €500 per month and often exceeding €1,000 |
| Government Subsidy | Yes | No |
| Curriculum | Generally follows the Spanish national curriculum | Flexible and diverse, offering options like IB, A-Levels, American system, etc. |
| Language of Instruction | Usually Spanish, with some offering bilingual programs | Primarily international languages like English, German, or French |
| Admission Difficulty | Higher, usually based on a point system within the school district | Mainly depends on the family’s financial capacity and a student interview |
In short, if you want your child to receive a Spanish-based education but feel that public schools lack sufficient resources, a ‘Concertado’ is a cost-effective choice. However, if your goal is for your child to attend university in the UK, the US, or other countries, or if you want them to grow up in a truly international environment, then a ‘Privado’ school, especially a well-known international one, would be a more suitable option.
How to Choose the Right School for Your Child?
My personal advice is: don’t just assume that ‘the most expensive is the best’. Choosing a school is a highly personal decision. It requires a comprehensive assessment of your family’s financial situation, your future plans for your child, and the unique personality of your child when considering Spanish private schools. Some children thrive in the disciplined environment of a religious ‘Concertado’ school, while others are better suited to the liberal and open atmosphere of a ‘Privado’ school. The best approach is to attend Open Days at several schools, talk to the principals and teachers, and get a real feel for the school’s atmosphere. No amount of research can replace seeing it for yourself. I hope all your kids find a school they love!
