Spanish Education System Through the Eyes of Polish Parents
With more Polish families moving to Spain, education has become a central concern. Parents face a choice between public schools, Catholic private institutions, semi-private concertados, and international schools – each with advantages and challenges.
The biggest hurdle is language. Many Polish children initially struggle, often requiring private lessons to reach fluency within a year. While international schools provide support programs in English, adaptation in Spanish schools relies heavily on extra tutoring. Despite this, parents stress that children integrate quickly, with classmates showing openness and curiosity.
The school year also differs: in Andalusia, for example, it runs from September to late June, with longer summer breaks. Days are structured differently – public schools finish around 14:00, while private schools extend into the afternoon, adding sports and arts activities. Costs vary widely: public schools are free but involve extra expenses, while international schools can reach €7,000–26,000 annually.
“Spanish schools put strong emphasis on creativity and individuality – teachers encourage children to explore their talents rather than focus solely on memorization,” Joanna Ossowska-Rodziewicz, co-owner of By-Bright real estate agency, who has lived in Andalusia for several years, said.
(WBJ)
