Whichever route you choose, many parents want their children to learn both languages. For example, since there is such a large Spanish-speaking population in the United States, many primary and secondary school students can benefit from educational environments where they are learning in both English and Spanish. “The boom in public bilingual centres in Spain has been remarkable. The third language program currently includes Spanish and Chinese (Mandarin). El Limonar Monteprincipe is a bilingual education center for pupils from the age of 3 to 8 years old. Bilingual classrooms require consistency. However, if you’re exploring sending your child to a bilingual school, you should make sure to visit and evaluate the teachers’ approach. They are required to teach the Spanish curriculum, including primary and … 150 W 105th St., New York, NY. In 1998 Iale became the first bilingual infant and primary school in Valencia to be authorised at a national level. Some children do acquire good language skills but usually because of the support they receive outside the school”. the level of English of teachers in the many “bilingual” schools in Spain leaves a lot to be desired, there is a need for more qualified and/or native teachers, the term “bilingual school” is used too loosely, more control is required, it is pretty much pot luck as to what level of English is offered, based on the teacher you have, This article from El Pais in English highlights some interesting facts that may explain some of these differences and nuances. Bilingual education in Spain is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the international education system, gain practical and theoretical skills in a new environment. SEK has day school and boarding options, both at a pretty penny. She was calm in the classroom, well most of the time. When researching secondary options for our children, I struggled to find schools offering what I believed to be “bilingual” education. Start in pre-school. The British Council is proud of our legacy in Spain promoting, developing and supporting bilingual education. Agora International School Madrid is a private, bilingual international school in Madrid. This certificate guarantees professional Spanish language proficiency as well as professional knowledge of Latino culture and politics and is designed for undergraduates and post-baccalaureate students also seeking a SBBC certificate. Some 95% of Spanish students at bilingual schools have chosen to be taught in English.”. Where to Live in Spain: Malaga and the Costa del Sol, The Spanish Property Magazine: Living and Lifestyle. Jump forward eight years and aged eleven, our strong-willed, independent, caring and intelligent daughter had developed strong roots and was ready to spread her wings. In Andalusia, for instance, “there are not enough teachers qualified to speak well,” says Christian Abello, professor of English studies at the University of Seville. And they are really good at teaching! In our case,  half of the subjects in English, and the other half in Spanish. 212-678-2857 Bilingual education can often be the most effective when children are beginning preschool or elementary school. After 16 years old, they can choose to continue their education so they can apply to university or enter vocational training. Our priorities are to work with National and Regional Authorities in Spain to establish best practice in teaching and learning in bilingual schools.”, Reference: https://www.britishcouncil.es/en/partnerships/success-stories/bilingual, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress. However, a recent article in El Pais has criticised the project. She knew him well! Their Spanish school experience, however, was very different during their first years. The second was our last school in Benalmadena, it was ordered to offer bilingual education at which point all the teachers signed a petition saying they wouldn’t/couldn’t do it – the town hall backed down and allowed them to start with just 25% in English and made the appropriate allowances. For instance, it’s likely you’ll find helping with homework or communicating with teachers difficult. Rules and regulations differ from our home country. History of Bilingual Education in Spain The most successful program began in the capital city of Madrid in the year 2004. In the 2010-2011 period, 240,154 students were studying in a bilingual program in one of Spain’s regions (except Catalonia, which does not provide data). I am of the belief that the teachers providing classes, in English, in state schools, need more training and a higher level of English to better carry out their roles. Bilingual (English/Spanish) nursery and primary school in Benavista, Estepona, founded in 2004. Sotogrande International School. Under these circumstances, or if you have older children or if you’re living in Spain short-term, an international school might be a better option. Capacity building. ... a service that promotes international students’ employment in top companies throughout Spain. Some children do acquire good language skills but usually because of the support they receive outside the school”, “Based on 2 different schools that we left! The regional government did not supervise the teachers’ progress,” he adds.”, “We have been working since 1996 with the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training to support the implementation, development and evaluation of bilingual and bicultural education throughout Spain. Having teachers of both nationalities speaking their own language only! The Spanish Bilingual Program provides students with the opportunity to acquire the basic skills for spe aking, reading, writing, listening and communicating in both English and Spanish at a young age. Bilingual teaching models In Spain Spanish coexists with Basque, Catalan and Galician as the medium of instruction. Why choosing a Boarding School in Spain? Swans School. The Spanish education system is divided into three groups: state schools, state-subsidised private schools, and independent schools, which include most international schools. Aranese (Aranés) is official in a small area of Catalonia and primary education is offered in this language. However, if you aren’t a competent Spanish speaker, you may find this challenging. The English School of Asturias. As much as it tore me apart to see her like that, I knew in my heart that we were doing the right thing. Well known for its music and dance program, this bilingual school that previously had a thriving Spanish dual language program recently added a Russian dual language program. We can confidently say that as a result of our decision to put the children in the local village school: However, as happy as we were with our children’s Spanish state education, we decided it was time for a change. 2. How happy are you with the level of English of the teachers giving the classes? It focuses on achieving educational excellence via an enriched and coordinated curriculum tailored to meet the specific needs and requirements of each of its students. Francesca, on the other hand, had a rather more disruptive and emotional start. For years I have said that choosing the best kind of education in Spain for your children is one of the most important decisions you will make whether you are moving abroad or you are already living abroad. We were looking for bilingual education. However, from experience, I know that once they are five or six years older, the process may not be as smooth. – Methodology plays an important role too. Ábaco Asesoría Legal y Fiscal, S.L.U. Bilingual education in Spain is a relatively new development, and in Ronda especially so with both schools having only run their programs for a very short time; one year for the primary school, and three years for the high school. We love Family Life In Spain. He spent one year at a local village school in Arenas near Velez Malaga and then stayed at CEIP San Sebastián in Mijas Pueblo from age five to twelve. Which subjects are taught in which language and how are they assessed? My aim is to provide an accurate image of the current state of “bilingual” schools in Spain. We wanted our children to be educated in their mother tongue, in English, as well as their adopted Spanish. Apply to Bilingual Authorization Handbook Program Description This added authorization can be added onto any teaching credential (multiple subjects, single subject, or educational specialist) and may be completed simultaneously (at the same time) or following a teaching credential. It was painful for many. Aloha College. https://familylifeinspain.com/2016/09/secondary-education-in-spain/, https://familylifeinspain.com/2013/02/education-in-spain-division/, https://familylifeinspain.com/2010/11/education-in-spain-our-story-i/. In regards to the Madrid bilingual program, there are now 336 primary schools, 98 secondary schools, and 163 private schools. B-53402624. For years I have said that choosing the best kind of. In Madrid however, where 43.8% of primary school students and 27.6% of secondary students take classes in English, teachers must have an advanced level of English (C1). Bilingual education can shift a student’s focus. Surrounded by native speakers, you will learn the language faster. Iale International School: One of the best schools in Valencia. Why Spain’s bilingual schools are full of teachers with poor English skills The sector has grown so quickly there are not enough trained professionals to … School address: Urbanización Torrequebrada, Calle Ronda del Golf Este, 7 – 11, 29639 Benalmádena, Málaga P.S. All students commence a third language in Year 7, which may be continued as an elective subject from Year 9. Some methodologies are obsolete and yet still used by many (most?) “We have been working since 1996 with the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training to support the implementation, development and evaluation of bilingual and bicultural education throughout Spain. “I believe that a school that advertises itself as “bilingual” should offer an equal number of subjects in each language.ie. International Schools With 2 of its locations in the community of Madrid, SEK International is one of the most prestigious school systems in the country (#13 in El Mundo). Evaluation Report. School address: Urbanización Torrequebrada, Calle Ronda del Golf Este, 7 – 11, 29639 Benalmádena, Málaga Some experts argue that it has been rolled out too quickly where demand is high, thus compromising the quality of education. At the beginning, 26 primary schools were selected based on an application process and the majority were private schools. Combined with his easy adaptiveness to the ever-bouncing expectations of the auxiliar, Alex and his school mutually thrive from the other’s presence. I think the schools shouldn’t be called bilingual because the percentage of classes is not 50/50 and also they don’t actually produce bilingual children. The school follows the English and Welsh National Curriculum whilst complying with the requirements of the Spanish Education system. The first in Torremolinos is supposedly a completely bilingual school at ESO level, however we were told they were not sufficiently qualified to do the Bachillerato classes in English – if that’s the case then I don’t believe they would be capable of doing any classes adequately in English. Should you opt for local state schools, private international schools or bilingual schools in Spain? “We began without qualified teachers, and CLIL training – the European methodology to learn a new language through other subjects such as mathematics – is voluntary. The school offers Infant, Primary and Secondary Education in a stimulating and safe environment within the academic, social and sports limits. That said, older children have taken this path and have done so very successfully. The following two tabs change content below. Pros and cons of international schools in Spain. English Impact 2017 . We are extremely happy with our decision to put both children into Spanish state education, in local a village school,  from an early age. The Columbus School. Are the needs of one native group privileged over the other? By September 2022 we will be at full capacity, with 3 forms of entry in each year group. And they are really good at teaching! In our “education in Spain” articles you can read lots of advice and experiences that may help you to make up your own mind on what is best for your own child. Founded in 1987, this institution based in Valencia is a private and mixed British school offering a... Elians. However, with the right care and attention, you can select an educational environment that will help your child excel, in both English and Spanish. Bilingual, quality, safety, economic stability Secondary education in Spain provides a unique opportunity to foreign students to learn the Spanish language in a safe and welcoming country with the highest academic standards. After the bilingual program was launched in 2004, the Andalusian regional government allowed teachers with a low intermediate level of English (B1) to teach classes in the first few years, says José Antonio Romero, coordinator of the bilingual program at the public school Miguel Servert in Seville. For instance, are both languages given equal attention? A two-way program is intended for both native Spanish speakers and native English speakers. Every child is different and our role as parents is to decide what we believe to be best for them. , where 30.5% of elementary school students and 28.6% of high school students study in English. I simply plan to give a true picture, based on experiences from parents and teachers. “There are notable differences between bilingual education in each of Spain’s regions, especially when it comes to the English skills required of teachers. In the 2016-2017 period, that figure had jumped 360% to 1.1 million, according to an EL PAÍS study of data from the Education Ministry. From the year they turned three, both our children attended local state-run schools in Spain. These are fee paying. Some international schools in Spain are also subsidized, follow a bilingual (English/Spanish) curriculum and are also authorized to accept both Spanish and foreign pupils. Two-Way Dual Language is a Spanish dual language program that includes instruction in both English and Spanish to help students excel academically while becoming bilingual, biliterate and bicultural. Here are a few to get your research on Bilingual Schools in New York started. Subsequently, many parents will want to take full advantage of the opportunity their child has to learn a second language. International Schools or Schools with bilingual Programs: Andalucia. Painful for us as we saw our quiet, “angelic” daughter scream and cry at the start of every term for the first few years. The linguistic model chosen by the regions with their own language varies per community. In the 2016-2017 period, that figure had jumped 360% to 1.1 million, according to an EL PAÍS study of data from the Education Ministry. She was ready to make a big change in her life and follow in her brother’s footsteps … in her own individual way, of course! My kids are appalled by the mistakes the teachers make in class.”, “I was one of two teachers at the school who had formally studied bilingual education. The school offers Infant, Primary and Secondary Education in a stimulating and safe environment within the academic, social and sports limits. Bilingual English/Spanish education is one of the most exciting innovations in the current education scene, with over 200,000 young students in Spain studying a bilingual curriculum from the age of 3, either in British Council project schools or in regional government versions of the project based on this original model. “We began without qualified teachers, and CLIL training – the European methodology to learn a new language through other subjects such as mathematics – is voluntary. Colegio Internacional Torrequebrada (CIT) is a bilingual private school (Spanish & English). I think the teachers, if not native, should demonstrate an advanced level of the language, both written and spoken.”. Fortunately, the state education system in Spain is of a very high standard. International schools in other Spanish locations Caxton College. up to age 5 or 6) children. Good education 100% in Spanish is far better than shoddy teaching because the teacher only speaks intermediate English. Colegio de San Francisco de Palua. In our case,  half of the subjects in English, and the other half in Spanish. https://familylifeinspain.com/2016/09/living-abroad-with-children-changes-inevitable/, https://familylifeinspain.com/2014/11/spanish-homework-children-and-spanish-language-learning/, https://familylifeinspain.com/2014/06/using-story-cubes-tell-stories/, https://familylifeinspain.com/2013/10/education-in-spain-meeting-marie-tere-cuisenaire-rods/, https://familylifeinspain.com/2010/11/education-in-spain-our-story-ii/. Bilingual inclusive education in Madrid, Spain: Deaf and hearing pupils | Inclusive Education in Action However, we know it’s not the same in other schools in the same town.”, My kids attend a semi-private school (colegio concertado) but they follow the Comunidad de Madrid curriculum. they are fully bilingual in English and Spanish, they are open-minded and caring individuals, they are knowledgeable about the importance of community values, they can switch speaking between the local Andaluz dialect and clear Castellano, they are fully integrated into the local community, they have a good knowledge of Spanish geography, they have a profound ability to effectively communicate with people of all ages, backgrounds and social status, they display creativity and a passion for learning, The Truth about Bilingual Schools in Spain (in our opinion). But in Ronda we do have two bilingual schools, a primary school (CEIP Juan Carillo), and a high school (IES Dr Rodriguez Delgado), as well there is a second bilingual primary school in Setenil de las Bodegas, though this is within the Cadíz province whereas Ronda schools are of course within Málaga province. In order to research the matter further, I invited parents to answer a simple questionnaire about their experiences with “bilingual schools in Spain”: Here are a few comments and suggestions made by the parents, in response to my open questions: Q1. Teaching in a bilingual school in Madrid definitely has so many positives! Successful graduates can choose from a range of positions within the bilingual education context. Q2: How do you think Spain can improve its Bilingual Education? Another advantage of studying abroad … This pages gives a comprehensive overview of bilingual schools or international schools in Spain. Top international schools in Valencia and Alicante, Comparing some of the best international schools in Alicante. Therefore, if you’re staying in Spain long-term or have young children, sending them to a local school is a great way to help them integrate. Another advantage of studying abroad … Some 95% of Spanish students at bilingual schools have chosen to be taught in English. However, the downside is these schools often come with high fees and less contact with Spanish language and culture. However, the route you take will depend on your specific circumstances. There are many paths towards bilingual education, each with its pros and cons. Schools provide vocational skills, creative opportunities, athletic opportunities, and much more. As in our introduction, the school you choose for your child will depend on your unique circumstances. Equally, it’s also prudent to do some research about the school’s funding streams. The British College. Huguet, Á. and Llurda, E.: 2001, ‘Language attitudes of school children in two Catalan/Spanish bilingual communities’, International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism 4, … the benefits of bilingual education are undeniable. Shoreless Lake School (SLS) Address: Apdo. Educational leaders like Dr. Sanchez implement policies for bilingual education. They are so resilient and adaptable. Your children will be able to continue with a familiar curriculum taught in their native language with small classes and high-quality facilities. to teach classes in the first few years, says José Antonio Romero, coordinator of the bilingual program at the public school Miguel Servert in Seville. However, we know it’s not the same in other schools in the same town.”, “Only Catalans can teach English in public schools, the level is really low, not one child in 5 or 6 form can say a word of English to me. For instance, if your budget allows, you may choose to send them to a private international school. I am a firm believer that enrolling children in local Spanish school from an early age is a good option for most if not all young (ie. The majority of schools seemed to offer a British curriculum which was not what we wanted. You’ll want to make sure there’s likely to be consistent provision for bilingual education to ensure standards are maintained. International schools teach subjects in English and some take children from nursery school right up to university level, while others concentrate on primary and secondary education. However, a recent article in El Pais has criticised the project. If a bilingual education program is broken into a standard 50/50 split during the school day, students who do struggle with the new language may find themselves focused on the second language only. In Andalusia, for instance, “there are not enough teachers qualified to speak well,” says Christian Abello, professor of English studies at the University of Seville. As a result, bilingual education is gaining popularity in both the state and private sectors. As you can see from the sample answers above, my own research into local schools, in the Malaga area, highlighted what I had already been lead to believe by other parents and friends working in the education sector: Needless to say, this does not make our role as a parent any easier when choosing the best school for our children! In Spain, there are no league tables to advise us which are the best performing schools, although there are many regulatory bodies that can be consulted to conduct basic checks. Each year this program continues to grow based on the success rate. Equally, if you want to ensure they’re fully integrated into Spanish society, you may prefer to enroll them in the state sector. In Madrid however, where 43.8% of primary school students and 27.6% of secondary students take classes in English, teachers must have an advanced level of English (C1). , where more students study in English than any other region (52.3% in elementary school and 33.7% in high school). Sunland international School (SUNLAN) Asturias. In Spain, more than 40%of the population lives in officially bilingual regions in which the minority language is used as a means of instruction at school and university. They accuse regional governments of using students as a testing ground … Both educational systems offer excellent opportunities for learning, so you can choose the school that’s right for you with confidence. The Bilingual and Biliteracy in Spanish Certificate of Achievement is a 16-credit program composed of four 4-credit courses. That said, the benefits of bilingual education are undeniable. Bilingual education in Spain is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the international education system, gain practical and theoretical skills in a new environment. The International School Estepona is West Marbella’s leading primary school and nursery, situated in El Paraiso, Estepona, in the heart of “The New Golden Mile” on the Costa del Sol, Spain.The School is set in a secure fenced compound of 3,700 sq metres which includes ample car parking. Quality of life I stand corrected, Joshua actually spent a year in a local French school, age three! 239 30850 Totana, Murcia, Spain Tel: 34 968 424386 Spanish 300/300H fulfills GE area C3. During my final meeting with his tutor, when I shared my thought about the local secondary school or a private bilingual school, I was told Joshua will do well, whatever school you decide to send him to”. I think the teachers, if not native, should demonstrate an advanced level of the language, both written and spoken.”. The British Council have been involved in attempting to improve the level of education in Spain offered in English …. Not only is it shown to increase cognitive capacity, but it also creates a vast amount of future opportunities – especially when it comes to a language as widely spoken as Spanish. I have just made the decision to pay for my son to attend fully bilingual private secondary education as I do not feel the state schools offer an acceptable level. We all do what we believe is best for our children, yet how do we make the right choice regarding the best schools and types of education? Since 1996, the British Council has made a significant investment in bilingual education, alongside the Spanish Ministry of Education and Vocational Training. Bilingual education involves teaching academic content in two languages, in a native and secondary language with varying amounts of each language used in accordance with the program model. Accredited by the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS). My daughters (7 and 9) can have short conversations in English, enjoy watching English TV and have also started reading in English. The implementation of this program occurred in three phases. Balearic Island ” articles you can read lots of advice and experiences that may help you to make up your own mind on what is best for your own child. Benalmádena International College S.L. We soon learnt that this performance ended as soon as she entered the school building. Huguet, Á. and Llurda, E.: 2001, ‘Language attitudes of school children in two Catalan/Spanish bilingual communities’, International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism 4, … Parents who want bilingual education are obliged to go to a private school. My daughters (7 and 9) can have short conversations in English, enjoy watching English TV and have also started reading in English. The Columbus School is one of the most sought-after bilingual schools in Medellin. We’ve been really lucky, the level of English of the teachers at my daughters’ school is fantastic, (almost) native. Where are the Best, Safest and Cheapest Places to Live in Spain? And I’m not talking about learning hundreds of (useless) vocabulary lists. Lower the prices in the private schools or raise the level of English spoken by Spanish teachers in the state schools. In Spain, it is compulsory for all children to attend school between the ages of 6 and 16. This “Bilingual Project” has been pioneering for both Spain and Europe, and has inspired other governments and education authorities to develop multilingual education and Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL)  projects in their schools. 239 30850 Totana, Murcia, Spain Tel: 34 968 424386 Colegio Internacional Torrequebrada (CIT) is a bilingual private school (Spanish & English). Hence this research … My current beliefs may not reflect the true picture. They do offer scholarships, but they are largely for students at the Bachillerato level. Spanish 300H draws on the student’s bilingual, linguistic, and cultural resources to build the knowledge, self-confidence, and engagement to successfully use Spanish in academic settings. 1. Bilingual Education Project Spain (2010) . The repeat-rate is sky high, so clearly something is going badly wrong!”, Teaching English at school with (almost) native teachers is important. The Bilingual Primary School is a growing school with over 520 children on roll from Reception to Y6. Native English speaking assistants and teachers. Giving more support and better qualification and training to their teachers,. When we think of a bilingual school, it is easy to assume that all classes must be taught in both of the chosen languages fairly equally, but in Spain that is not the case owing to a shortage of … Joshua fitted in and adapted from day one. Before sharing my thoughts and findings with you, I’d like to clarify what I understand as “bilingual education”. The rest had studied English and primary teaching.”, “My kids attend a semi-private school (colegio concertado) but they follow the Comunidad de Madrid curriculum. How Educational Leaders Influence Bilingual Education. https://familylifeinspain.com/2018/03/bilingual-education-spain-time-make-decision. For those entering the School at Year 7, a special beginner class is offered in one, or sometimes two, second languages. El Limonar Monteprincipe is a bilingual education center for pupils from the age of 3 to 8 years old. We prepare our students for a global, diverse and complex world. I do not intend to make any school look good or bad. All languages can be studied to Year 12. Back to School 2020: Coronavirus, ignorance, doubts and conflicting emotions. Before sharing my findings and thoughts on bilingual schools in Spain, I’d like to share our Spanish education story so far with you …. Founded in 2004, DC Bilingual Public Charter School now serves more than 400 students in grades PreK3 – 5. ¡ Olé ! This education is based on an inclusive project that values and meets the educational and communication needs of our entire community in oral language, sign language and alternative systems. “Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience of bilingual (English/Spanish) education in Spain. So, before writing the post on our family blog www.familylifeinspain.com , I’d like input from others.”, “We’ve been really lucky, the level of English of the teachers at my daughters’ school is fantastic, (almost) native. And I’m not talking about learning hundreds of (useless) vocabulary lists. The same is true in Andalusia, where 30.5% of elementary school students and 28.6% of high school students study in English. If you have an older child (over 8 years old) or your … Ideal for children growing up in a bilingual environment. Mayfair International Academy. Bilingual schools use the Polish core curriculum, usually supplemented by elements of programs from other countries and learning—as the name suggests—is conducted in two languages, while in international schools or international classes, teaching is conducted in a foreign language (usually English) according to the selected foreign curriculum. , this institution based in Valencia and Alicante, Comparing some of the subjects English! A very high standard standards are maintained language varies per community in one, or sometimes,. 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