Moving to the Costa del Sol with Kids? Your School Options Explained

In this episode, Darren Simons is joined by Rebecca and Marjorie to discuss how to choose between Spanish state schools and private/international schools on the Costa del Sol, with a focus on Marbella and the surrounding areas. They share first-hand experiences, language considerations, admissions timelines, costs, curricula, facilities, and day-to-day routines.

Guests:
Rebecca Want, Marbella Interiors — parent with experience in Spanish state education
Marjorie Blach, Next Nest — relocation specialist and parent with children in private education

What we cover:
Why families choose state vs private schools
Language goals and bilingual outcomes
Admissions and paperwork for state schools (cut-off dates, zoning, documentation)
Private school applications, assessments, and waiting lists
Typical costs and what’s included
School day structure, transport, and after-school activities
Curriculum options: Spanish, British (IGCSE/A-Levels), IB, American (AP/IB)
Facilities and student support
Integration, community, and family logistics
Practical tips for planning your move and school choice

Schools mentioned:
Aloha College (non-profit; IB and A-Levels)
Swans International
The English International College (EIC; A-Levels)
Atlas School in Estepona (American curriculum; AP/IB pathways)
Sotogrande International School (day and flexible boarding; IB)
San José (Spanish private)
Laude San Pedro (supports English language catch-up)

Key takeaways:
Define your priority: language integration, curriculum continuity, or facilities and schedule
Start applications early: private schools often fill by late autumn for the following year
For state schools, plan ahead for the April application window and local catchment rules
If language integration is the goal, state schools offer full immersion; private schools require additional Spanish support
Visit schools with your child to assess fit beyond the website

Disclaimer: Fees, admissions policies, curricula, and availability change. Confirm details directly with each school.

Tell us in the comments:
Which route are you considering and why?
What has your experience been with state or private schools in Spain?

Chapters:
00:00 Intro and guest backgrounds
03:20 Why choose state schools
06:50 Why choose private/international schools
11:40 Costs and facilities
13:40 Curricula: IB, A-Levels, American
15:40 Specific schools mentioned
16:50 Integration and daily routines
22:40 Buses, homework, and family logistics
27:20 Admissions tips and timelines
29:45 Waiting lists and choosing fit
31:30 Final advice and wrap-up

Contact the guests:

Marbella Interiors: all-inclusive furniture packs for second homes
https://www.marbellainteriors.com/

Next Nest: family relocation services for Marbella and the Costa del Sol
https://nextnestmarbella.com/

Get in touch with Cloud Nine Spain:
Telephone: +34 951 203 808
Email: [email protected]
https://cloudninespain.com/

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Sean Woolley is the author of "From The Ground Up: The Insider's Guide to Buying Spanish Property"

Available on Kindle and Paperback
Buy it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.es/dp/B08C1SFBSG/r...