Choosing the Right School

The Costa del Sol is renowned for its exceptional quality of life and is home to a large number of high-quality international schools, with the British curriculum being the most popular choice. These institutions offer globally recognised qualifications like IGCSEs and A-Levels, providing a seamless transition for students from the UK and a world-class education for others. This guide highlights 16 of the top British schools from Sotogrande to Málaga to help your family find the perfect fit.

Top 16 British International Schools

Aloha College

A leading school offering both the British curriculum (A-Levels) and the International Baccalaureate (IB). Known for its strong academics and diverse student body.

Area: Marbella | Fees: €800 - €1,600/month

Swans International School

Offers a complete British education from Early Years through to A-Levels, with a strong reputation for academic excellence and a nurturing environment.

Area: Marbella | Fees: €700 - €1,500/month

The English International College

One of the most established schools on the coast, providing a rigorous British curriculum (IGCSEs & A-Levels) with consistently outstanding exam results.

Area: Marbella East | Fees: €900 - €1,800/month

Laude San Pedro

Part of the prestigious Laude group, this school follows the British curriculum to A-Levels, alongside the Spanish Bachillerato, in modern, state-of-the-art facilities.

Area: San Pedro de Alcántara | Fees: €750 - €1,300/month

Benalmadena International College

A smaller, friendly school offering a full British education from ages 3 to 18 (A-Levels), known for its personalised approach to learning.

Area: Benalmádena | Fees: €600 - €1,100/month

Sunny View School

A well-regarded school with a long history on the coast, following the British curriculum through to A-Levels. Known for its strong sense of community.

Area: Torremolinos | Fees: €550 - €1,000/month

Sotogrande Int. School (SIS)

Primarily an IB World School, but its high regard among expats and strong English-language ethos make it a top choice. Offers a path similar to the UK system.

Area: Sotogrande | Fees: €900 - €2,000+/month

St. Anthony's College

This school provides a British education (IGCSEs & A-Levels) alongside the Spanish system, offering a bilingual and bicultural learning environment.

Area: Mijas Costa | Fees: €500 - €950/month

The British School of Málaga

Offers the full British National Curriculum for pupils aged 3 to 18, with a strong focus on preparing students for top universities worldwide.

Area: Málaga | Fees: €700 - €1,200/month

Mayfair International Academy

Provides a flexible curriculum including IGCSEs and A-Levels, with a focus on a holistic education in a supportive environment.

Area: Atalaya, Estepona | Fees: €650 - €1,150/month

Novaschool Sunland Int.

Set in a beautiful rural campus, Sunland offers the British curriculum within a unique, nurturing environment, promoting outdoor learning and creativity.

Area: Cártama (Málaga) | Fees: €600 - €1,000/month

Queens British Grammar School

A smaller, family-oriented school that follows the British curriculum, providing personalised attention and a strong academic foundation.

Area: Estepona | Fees: €500 - €900/month

The British College

Offers a complete British curriculum from nursery through to A-Levels, with modern facilities and a focus on technology in education.

Area: Benalmádena | Fees: €650 - €1,200/month

Calpe School

A specialist primary school delivering the British National Curriculum for ages 2 to 11. Known for its warm, family atmosphere and excellent early years education.

Area: San Pedro de Alcántara | Fees: €500 - €800/month

St George's School

Part of a respected international group, St George's in Málaga provides a full British curriculum with a modern approach to teaching and learning.

Area: Málaga | Fees: €700 - €1,250/month

Atalaya Colegio Bilingüe

As its name suggests, this is a bilingual school that integrates both the British and Spanish curricula, producing fully bilingual graduates.

Area: Estepona | Fees: €700 - €1,100/month

Conclusion

Finding the right school is one of the most important decisions for any family relocating to the Costa del Sol. With such a high standard of British education available, you can be confident your child will receive a world-class education. While you focus on school tours and settling the kids in, let Sparkling Homes Marbella handle the home front. We provide reliable, professional cleaning services to ensure your new home is a beautiful and welcoming space from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Yes, absolutely. A-Levels and IGCSEs taken at accredited British schools in Spain are identical to those taken in the UK and are recognised by universities worldwide, including all top UK institutions.

Fees vary significantly by school and age group. Expect to pay anywhere from €500 per month for early years to over €1,800 per month for Sixth Form (A-Levels) at the top schools. The fees in our guide are approximate monthly estimates.

While the primary language of instruction is English, all schools are required to teach Spanish. The level varies, but most international students become proficient in Spanish during their time at these schools, which is a significant advantage.