When you choose a school for your child, you could opt for the Spanish start system or private education. Both have advantages and disadvantages. All lessons in the state system are in Spanish. Your children, especially if young, will soon learn the language and will be teaching it to you in no time. They will quickly integrate into the local community and it follows that you will soon integrate as well. Children love the system, which is laid back and easy going without sacrificing curriculum standards.

The state system is free but you may be asked to pay for some books, supplies, etc. Private education is available from around 3 to 18 years of age. Lessons are usually in English and Spanish. The English system of education is usually followed. There are schools at Javea, Alfaz Del Pi, Alicante and in the Murcia region. The disadvantages of private education are that it has to be paid for by the parent and travelling could be involved.

If a student wishes to attend university then he or she will probably be more suited to a Spanish university if educated in the state system. This is not necessarily a bad thing. A student from a private school would have the choice of Spanish or British universities.