Are you considering a move to the stunning island of Mallorca with your family? Beyond its turquoise waters and golden beaches, Mallorca offers a diverse and enriching educational landscape. This makes it an ideal destination for families seeking quality schooling options. With the opening of the new Swedish Raoul Wallenberg International School, Mallorca boasts an impressive total of 19 international schools and numerous public schools. And they all cater to various curricular preferences and cultural backgrounds.
A World of Opportunities
For many families, the decision to relocate depends significantly on educational opportunities. Mallorca, with its wide range of public and international schools, is a very popular destination. In fact, some families find that what Mallorca offers in terms of education surpasses even what major world capitals like London can provide.
One of the key attractions of Mallorca’s educational scene is its diversity. Whether you prefer a public school or a British-style education with A-Levels, the globally recognized International Baccalaureate program, or specialized curricula like the Swedish system, Mallorca has options to suit every preference. This diversity ensures that families can find a school that aligns perfectly with their educational philosophy and goals.
International and public schools in Mallorca
The island offers a wide range of international schools such as the Agora Portals International School, Colegio San Cayetano and Queen’s College near Palma, the Lycée Francais de Palma or the German Eurocampus. But also, some public schools enjoy a good reputation. A big advantage of Mallorca’s public education system is the national orientation and strong ties to the local community. Here, kids are surrounded by both local and international families and learn the two official languages of Mallorca, Castilian Spanish and Catalán. This eases the process of integration in the local community. In addition, education at public schools is offered free of charge while international schools can cost several hundred euros.
Navigating the Spanish Education System: From Preschool to Secondary School
In Spain, children typically start preschool at the age of three and continue for three years until they are six years old. Preschool is not compulsory, but it serves as an important preparatory stage for primary education. The focus during these early years is on fostering social skills, emotional development, and basic cognitive abilities through play-based learning.
Primary education is compulsory and spans six years, starting at age six and ending around age twelve. Students attend primary school (colegio) where they receive a broad education. The primary goal is to provide students with a strong foundation in essential knowledge and skills necessary for further academic progression. At around the age of twelve, students transition from primary to secondary education. This stage typically lasts for four years and is compulsory for students aged twelve to sixteen. The following Bachillerato from sixteen to eighteen is optional and recognised at most European universities.
Unparalleled quality of life for families living in Mallorca
Looking for the perfect place to call home? With education playing a significant role in the decision-making process, Mallorca emerges as one of the best places to live for families. Beyond academics, Mallorca offers an unparalleled quality of life for families. With its Mediterranean climate, vibrant culture, and abundant recreational opportunities, the island provides an enriching environment for children. From exploring historic landmarks to engaging in outdoor activities amidst breathtaking scenery, Mallorca offers endless possibilities for family adventures.
Read more about family life in Mallorca in my FAMILY & KIDS blog section.