What are the schools in Spain like?

"My only advice to you is not to worry, your child will get a warm welcome and will have a great time through his/her time there. There is a big range of nationalities, so be sure that your kid will learn about other cultures," remarked one parent with kids at St. George's School of Madrid in Madrid.

"The school is a Catholic school, OPUS. But, in these changing times, they do accept and understand that all children enrolled are not Catholic. Half of the staff are certified English speakers and teachers, so speaking Spanish is not a MUST, but it is always good to attempt to use your Spanish when enrolling your child. For some grades, there is a long waiting list. Since this school includes preschool (one year old), it is advised to enroll your children as early as possible, once they are enrolled, there is no waiting list. This is one of the BEST schools in Andalucia and is part of the Attendis group whose website can be viewed at www.attendis.com or www.attendis.es. If your children do not already speak Spanish, be patient, and give it a whole semester. Children learn faster than adults and will grasp the language quickly, if for no other reason than to communicate with friends on the playground. Preschool is co-ed and is held at Colegio Grazalema. Once primary school begins, the girls remain at Colegio Grazalema, the boys go to the brother school, Colegio Guadalete, approximately 1km away. The children who attend this school are well-mannered. Because there is a cost, most of their parents own busineses, work in government, etc. The school has a high test rate in all areas. 100% of the children test well. Be sure to ask lots of questions and get a good grasp of the school policies and culture," explained one expat living in El Puerto de Santa Maria, Spain.