What are the best Schools in Marbella and along the Costa del Sol?
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for families relocating to Marbella. With its multicultural population, excellent climate and relaxed lifestyle, the region has become a hub for international families and its education options reflect that diversity. Whether you’re looking for a local Spanish state school or a private international curriculum, the Costa del Sol offers a wide variety of options to suit different educational philosophies, languages and future academic pathways.
Spanish public schools: cultural and language immersion
For families keen to fully embrace life in Spain, the local state system provides immersion into the country’s language and culture. Spanish public schools are free to attend and follow the national curriculum, which includes core subjects, regional studies and co-curricular activities. Some public schools also offer a bilingual English-Spanish strand. While the academic style can be more traditional and less flexible than some international systems, the rewards of fluency in Spanish and integration into local society are significant, especially for younger children who tend to adapt quickly.
International and private schools: choice and continuity
Marbella and the surrounding region offer a broad selection of private and international schools, including those which follow British, American, German, Swedish or other foreign curricula. These schools are popular with expat families seeking educational continuity or a bilingual learning environment.
Among the most well-established British curriculum schools are Swans International School, which operates both primary and secondary campuses in Marbella. It follows the English National Curriculum, offers IGCSEs, and concludes with the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
Aloha College also delivers the British curriculum, beginning with the Early Years Foundation Stage through to IGCSEs and offers students the choice of A Levels or the IB Diploma in Sixth Form. The Spanish curriculum is also incorporated throughout, giving students access to dual qualifications.
Laude San Pedro International College teaches the British curriculum from Early Years to A Levels, while also providing the option of the Spanish Bachillerato for older students.
Similarly, the British International School of Marbella offers the English National Curriculum, leading to IGCSEs and A Levels, with a strong emphasis on personal development, music and sport.
St George’s School in San Pedro offers a smaller, nurturing environment for children up to Year 10, based on the British curriculum with integrated daily Spanish lessons. There are plans to expand its secondary provision in the coming years.
The English International College (EIC) in Elviria has long been known for academic strength, following the full British curriculum from Foundation Stage through to A Levels, with bilingual Spanish integrated at all stages.
For families planning on a US academic pathway, the American College in Spain, based in Puerto Banús, provides a US high school curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) courses and SAT or ACT preparation. Students can also enrol in a 2+2 university programme in partnership with Keiser University, starting their degree in Spain and transferring to a US institution to complete it.
Atlas American School of Málaga, located in Estepona, also follows the US educational model, with a focus on STEAM learning, innovation and creativity across subjects. It caters for children from early years through secondary, preparing them for further study in the US or internationally.
Families interested in child-led, holistic approaches may be drawn to Montessori School Marbella, which follows the internationally recognised Montessori Method. With multi-age classrooms and a focus on independence, it offers a strong foundation for younger children between the ages of 2 and 12.
The Deutsche Schule Málaga in Elviria provides a full German education, leading to the Abitur, and is supported by the German government, while the Swedish School in Atalaya offers a recognised curriculum from Sweden, serving both resident and seasonal families looking to continue their education in Swedish.
San Juan de Dios International College, located in the Nueva Andalucía area, provides a trilingual education (Spanish, English and French) with a Catholic ethos, while also welcoming international students from diverse backgrounds.
Sotogrande International School, slightly further west but still accessible from Marbella, is among the most highly regarded IB schools in southern Spain. It offers the International Baccalaureate from early years through to the Diploma Programme, with boarding options and extensive sports and arts facilities.
Things to consider
When choosing a school in Marbella, consider your child’s age, language ability, long-term academic goals and your family’s plans. Spanish schools are ideal for younger children or long-term residents wanting to integrate locally, while international schools provide more flexibility for globally mobile families.
Many private schools have waiting lists, so early application is advisable. Location and transport are also important – while many schools offer bus services, Marbella’s geography means some commutes can be longer than expected.
Speak to Kore Estates
At Kore Estates, we understand that schooling is a key part of your property decision. Our team has in-depth knowledge of Marbella’s international education landscape and can help you find a home close to the right school for your family. Whether you’re planning a permanent move or investing in a holiday base with future plans in mind, we’re here to support every step of the relocation journey.
Looking for a family-friendly home near the best schools in Marbella? Contact Kore Estates today and let us guide you to the right location, the right property, and the right start.