Choosing the Right Curriculum in Spain: Spanish, IB, British, American, or Other?

When relocating to Spain, one of the first big decisions for families is: what curriculum is best for my child? The answer depends on your child’s age, language skills, long-term goals, and your family’s mobility. Here’s a breakdown of the main options in Spain.

Spanish Curriculum

• Best for: Families planning to stay long-term in Spain; children who may continue education and attend Spanish universities.

• What to expect: The Spanish curriculum is taught mainly in Spanish, sometimes in bilingual programmes, and follows the national curriculum culminating in ESO and Bachillerato. It has a strong emphasis on exams and memorization. Some semiprivate (concertado) schools and international schools offer Diploma Programme, the last stage of IB during Bachillerato, allowing students to obtain both the Spanish curriculum qualification and the IB Diploma. However, students who are not familiar with the IB methodology may find this transition challenging. Additionally, many private international schools in Spain combine all three stages of IB (Primary Years, Middle Years, Diploma Programme) with the Spanish curriculum, giving children full exposure to the IB system alongside local requirements.

• Pros: Deep cultural immersion; strong social connections with local peers; lower tuition fees in public or semi-private schools; opportunity to gain international recognition through IB integration.

• Considerations: Older children with little Spanish may struggle initially; exam-heavy and memorization-focused approach may not suit all learning styles; transitioning to IB in Bachillerato can be challenging if students are not used to the methodology; qualifications are mainly recognized in Spain unless IB is included.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

• Best for: Families planning a globally mobile lifestyle; children aiming for top universities worldwide.

• What to expect: Offered as Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programme; emphasizes critical thinking, research, creativity, and holistic development; multicultural and bilingual environment. Many international schools combine the Spanish curriculum with IB, allowing students to meet local requirements while earning the IB Diploma. Assessment focuses on projects and coursework rather than memorization-heavy exams.

• Pros: Universally recognized; encourages independent learning and global mindset; ideal for expatriate children who move frequently.

• Considerations: Rigorous workload; requires careful planning and support; higher tuition fees.

British Curriculum

• Best for: Families from the UK or familiar with the system; children aiming for UK universities or international schools following the British system.

• What to expect: GCSEs and A-Levels in secondary school; focus on subject depth, analytical skills, and exam-based assessment; often delivered in English, sometimes bilingual.

• Pros: Smooth transition for UK school leavers; globally recognized qualifications for university entry.

• Considerations: Less emphasis on holistic development compared to IB; tuition at premium British schools can be high.

American Curriculum

• Best for: Families from the US or familiar with the American system; children planning to attend US universities or international programs.

• What to expect: Follows the US High School Diploma structure, often with Advanced Placement (AP) courses or SAT/ACT preparation; continuous assessment through coursework, projects, and exams; English as primary language. Most American schools in Spain combine the American curriculum with all three stages of IB, offering both diplomas.

• Pros: Smooth transition for children from US schools; globally recognized; flexible and student-centered approach; suitable for expatriates who move frequently.

• Considerations: Additional exams may be required for European university entry; American schools are relatively few in Spain.

Other European Curricula (French, German, etc.)

• Best for: Families from these countries or planning to return home; children benefiting from continuity in their home-country system.

• What to expect: French Baccalauréat, German Abitur, and other national systems; usually bilingual or native-language instruction; strong emphasis on national exams and standards.

• Pros: Continuity for expatriate children; recognized by universities in the home country and sometimes internationally.

• Considerations: Limited number of schools offering these systems in Spain; integration into Spanish culture may be slower.

Key Takeaways for Expat Families

• The Spanish curriculum is exam-heavy and memorization-focused, but some schools integrate IB during Bachillerato, providing international recognition.

• Many international schools combine the Spanish curriculum with IB, offering flexibility for children who may move or study abroad.

• Most American schools incorporate all three stages of IB alongside the US curriculum.

• Families who move frequently or aim for global mobility generally benefit most from IB, American, or hybrid curricula.

• Age, language skills, learning style, and university goals should all factor into the decision.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right curriculum shapes your child’s social life, language skills, and future opportunities. At Smooth Move – International Education Consultancy, we guide families through these options, ensuring your child is placed in a school and curriculum where they will thrive both academically and socially.

Contact us today for a personalized consultation and make the decision stress-free for your family.