20 Best Private Boarding Schools In Spain 2024

When it comes to providing world-class education, Spain offers a multitude of remarkable private boarding schools that stand out for their academic rigor, diverse communities, and inspiring campuses.

The country offers a wide range of private boarding schools, each with its own unique character and strengths. Whether you are looking for a school with a strong academic reputation, a focus on extracurricular activities, or a commitment to diversity, there are numerous boarding schools in Spain that will satisfy your needs.

With a vast array of boarding schools in Spain, finding the right one for your kid might be a tough decision to make, and that is why we’ve done a thorough research and summed up the best private boarding schools in Spain for you.

In this comprehensive guide, we will present to you the “Top 20 Best Private Boarding Schools in Spain.” Our carefully curated list showcases institutions known for their academic prowess, state-of-the-art facilities, and a dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Whether you’re a parent seeking the best educational opportunities for your child or a student aspiring to broaden horizons in a vibrant and culturally rich environment, this article will guide you to making an informed choice. Without further ado, let’s get right into it.

Private Boarding Schools in Spain

The best private boarding schools in Spain include the following:

1. The American School of Barcelona

The first institution on our list of boarding schools in Spain is the American School of Barcelona. Situated in the vibrant city of Barcelona, The American School of Barcelona stands as a beacon of quality education, welcoming international and Spanish families seeking a holistic approach to learning.

With a comprehensive American curriculum spanning from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12, this institution fosters a community of dedicated learners. Here, students not only excel academically but also experience personal and social growth.

ASB has a strong focus on extracurricular activities, offering a wide range of sports, arts, and music programs. The school also has a strong commitment to diversity, with students from over 60 countries enrolled.

Located in one of Spain’s most culturally rich cities, this school offers a unique blend of educational excellence and a global perspective, making it a top choice for families seeking quality instruction and a welcoming environment for their children.

2. The British School of Barcelona

The British School of Barcelona is a prestigious educational institution that has established itself as one of the leading boarding schools in Spain. Situated in the vibrant city of Barcelona, this school attracts students from around the world, offering a truly international educational experience.

With a commitment to the highest standards of British education, the school provides a well-rounded curriculum, from early years to pre-university, that nurtures intellectual growth, critical thinking, and personal development.

BSB offers a British-style curriculum, leading to GCSEs, A Levels, and/or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The school also offers a bilingual program in English and Spanish, and a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and music.

The British School of Barcelona also boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a team of dedicated educators who are passionate about helping students achieve their full potential.

3. The International School of Catalunya

Founded in 2007, The International School of Catalunya (ISCAT) has swiftly become an accredited British International School of distinction. Offering the National Curriculum of England and Wales from Nursery through to Year 13, ISCAT provides students with a solid foundation for a global education.

At ISCAT, students follow the British Curriculum, culminating in the IGCSE at the end of Year 11 and A Levels in Year 13. This educational journey opens doors to opportunities for further study not only in the UK but also across Europe and the world.

What sets ISCAT apart is its diverse and multicultural environment, where students and staff from all corners of the world come together. This exposure to different cultures and languages enriches the educational experience, fostering a global perspective and preparing students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

4. Colegio Brains International School

Nestled in the prestigious residential area of La Moraleja, near Madrid, Colegio Brains International School La Moraleja is one of the renown private boarding schools in Spain that offers an exceptional educational experience within a dynamic and multicultural community.

One of the best parts of this school is the boarding house. The school boasts a modern and spacious boarding house situated on the campus, accommodating up to 100 students.

This boarding facility provides a safe and supportive environment, with private bedrooms featuring en-suite bathrooms for privacy and comfort. Common rooms are equipped with amenities like TVs, video games, and recreational activities, fostering camaraderie and relaxation.

Additionally, dedicated study rooms, equipped with computers and resources, create an ideal atmosphere for academic focus.

The boarding house staff are also available around the clock to assist students with academic work, extracurricular activities, and personal needs, making it a home away from home where students develop essential life skills, independence, and lasting friendships.

5. Runnymede College

Runnymede College, located in Madrid, stands as one of the best private boarding schools in Spain. The institution is committed to providing a British education to boys and girls of all nationalities, starting from the age of two and extending to eighteen.

Runnymede College’s mission is to deliver an academically excellent, all-encompassing, liberal humanistic education that equips students with the skills needed for success in the adult world.

One of the hallmarks of Runnymede College is its commitment to diversity and inclusion, with students from over 60 countries enrolled.

Runnymede College is committed to providing students with a safe and supportive environment. The school has a boarding house that can accommodate up to 100 students. The boarding house provides students with a safe and supportive environment, as well as access to the school’s excellent academic and extracurricular programs.

6. The English Montessori School

With over 40 years of history, The English Montessori School (TEMS) in Madrid is one of the oldest private boarding schools in Spain, endorsed by the Spanish Ministry of Education and Culture and Great Britain.

TEMS is one of the best boarding schools in Spain that offers a comprehensive and successful educational experience for students aged between 3 and 18, preparing them to take on the world.

TEMS takes pride in its unique educational approach, combining the Montessori method for children up to the age of six with the British education system up to the age of 16, culminating in the Spanish Baccalaureate or A Levels in Years 12 and 13, ensuring that students receive an excellent education, and are also well-prepared for a successful future, both professionally and personally.

TEMS students consistently rank among the top performers in external exams in Madrid’s Spanish and international schools, reflecting the school’s high academic standards.

7. Agora Portals International School

Agora Portals International School, located on the beautiful island of Mallorca, is one of the best private boarding schools in Spain, with a significant mission: to develop bilingual, responsible, and ethical persons capable of attaining success in all aspects of life.

Situated in Portals Nous, this school is the epitome of international private education in Mallorca, offering a comprehensive range of programs from Pre-school to Baccalaureate.

The school’s boarding facilities are a testament to its commitment to fostering a global and diverse community. Here, students find a home away from home, where they live, learn, and grow together.

Agora Portals International School’s boarding facilities provide students with a well-rounded and enriching experience, emphasizing not only academic excellence but also the development of social, cultural, and global competencies.

8. King’s College

King’s College, Madrid, is a prestigious institution that forms part of the King’s Group, a leading network of British international schools. Located in the heart of the vibrant city of Madrid, this school is one of the leading boarding schools in Spain, known for its commitment to providing a top-quality British education to a diverse student body.

The school welcomes students of all nationalities and backgrounds, creating a dynamic and multicultural learning environment. With a comprehensive educational offering from early years to the end of the secondary phase, King’s College, Madrid, prepares students for academic success and personal growth.

King’s College, Madrid also has a boarding house that can accommodate up to 100 students. The boarding house provides students with a safe and supportive environment, as well as access to the school’s excellent academic and extracurricular programs. The school staff are available to help students with their academic work, extracurricular activities, and personal needs.

9. Sotogrande International School

Sotogrande International School (SIS) is one of the best coeducational, private boarding schools in Spain. The school offers a curriculum based on the National Curriculum of England and Wales, from Nursery to Year 13.

SIS has made a significant investment into international boarding, with the construction of Templeton House in 2022. Templeton House is a modern, state-of-the-art boarding facility that can accommodate up to 116 students, predominantly in twin accommodation, with four bed dorm rooms for junior boarders.

Templeton House has been designed with students at the center of the decision making process, with clean, modern furnishings and ensuite rooms that are climate-controlled and have wifi access.

Boarders have access to incredible onsite facilities, including a kitchen, social spaces, basketball courts, football pitches, an athletics track, volleyball and badminton courts, a sports center, a library, and music rooms.

10. Aloha College International School Marbella

Aloha College International School Marbella stands as one of the most esteemed private boarding schools in Spain. Operating as a not-for-profit educational foundation, the school boasts a rich history, serving more than 870 students hailing from over 50 different nationalities.

Aloha College offers a comprehensive British International education, catering to students from Early Years to Sixth Form (ages 3 to 18). The school’s academic programs are guided by a combination of educational frameworks, including the British National Curriculum, International Primary Curriculum, IGCSE, International Baccalaureate Diploma, and International A-Level programs.

The school places a strong emphasis on the well-being and happiness of its students, fostering a nurturing environment where independent learning and personal development are integral components of the daily curriculum.

At Aloha College, the aspiration is for each student to realize their full potential and be their best, guided by a commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.

11. Mas Camarena International Schools

Nestled in Bétera, Valencia, Spain, Mas Camarena International Schools is a distinguished private, coeducational institution that has made its mark in the realm of private boarding schools in Spain.

This school stands out for its comprehensive curriculum, which combines the Spanish National Curriculum and the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program, encompassing students from Early Childhood Education (ECE) to Year 13.

Mas Camarena International Schools prioritizes the well-being of its students and is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment.

The school’s staff is readily available to assist students with their academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, and personal needs. This commitment to student welfare reinforces Mas Camarena International Schools as a choice institution for a well-rounded education in a diverse and inclusive setting.

12. The Lady Elizabeth School

The Lady Elizabeth School (LES) is a private boarding school located in Jávea, Alicante, Spain, serving students aged from 1-18 years old. LES offers a British-style education, with a strong focus on academic excellence, personal development, and global citizenship.

LES has a reputation for academic excellence, with students consistently achieving high grades in external examinations. The school offers a broad and challenging curriculum, which is based on the National Curriculum of England and Wales.

At The Lady Elizabeth School, the boarding experience is more than just a place to stay; it’s a vibrant community that encourages personal growth and lasting connections. As a boarder, you’ll find yourself immersed in an environment where academic dedication is balanced with leisure, fostering a holistic approach to education.

The boarding house is a diverse tapestry of cultures and backgrounds, offering a unique opportunity to share experiences and learn from one another. The friendships you cultivate during your time here have the potential to last a lifetime and can open doors to endless possibilities in the future.

13. The English School of Asturias

The English School of Asturias is one of the best private boarding schools in Spain that offers not only an exceptional educational environment but also a welcoming and supportive boarding experience.

The boarding facilities at the school are designed to foster a sense of community, where students from diverse backgrounds come together to learn and grow.

In this multilingual community, the emphasis is on continuous learning and mutual respect. Students and educators work collaboratively, respecting one another’s perspectives, to not only enhance their own knowledge and skills but also to contribute positively to the world.

The boarding facilities at The English School of Asturias reflect the same principles of respect, collaboration, and personal growth. They provide a safe and supportive environment for students to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

14. British School of Tenerife

The British School of Tenerife is a renowned educational institution that stands as a beacon of British education on the vibrant island of Tenerife. With a commitment to delivering an exceptional educational experience, the school offers a comprehensive British curriculum for students from Early Years to Sixth Form (3 – 18).

BST offers boarding facilities for students aged 11-18 years old. The boarding house is located on the school campus and can accommodate up to 100 students.

BST boarding students have access to all of the school’s facilities, including the library, science labs, computer labs, art studios, music rooms, and sports facilities. They also have access to a dedicated boarding house common room, where they can relax and socialize with their friends.

BST offers a variety of boarding options, including full-time boarding, weekly boarding, and flexi-boarding. This allows students to choose the boarding option that best meets their needs.

15. SEK International School

SEK International Schools is a group of international, coeducational, private boarding schools in Spain, Ireland, France, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. The schools offer a curriculum based on the Spanish National Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, from Early Childhood Education (ECE) to Year 13.

SEK International Schools are known for their academic excellence, their strong focus on the development of the whole child, and their boarding facilities. The school offers a home from home, and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and music.

SEK International Schools offer boarding facilities for students aged 10-18 years old. The boarding houses are located on the school campuses and can accommodate up to 150 students.

The boarding houses are warm and welcoming communities, where students from all over the world come together to learn and grow. The boarding house staff are dedicated to providing students with a safe and supportive environment, where they can thrive.

16. St. George’s British School

St. George’s British School is a distinguished educational institution that upholds the tradition of British education while embracing a global perspective. Located in Spain, the school provides a comprehensive British curriculum, offering a world-class education to students from Early Years through to Sixth Form.

At St. George’s British School, the core focus is on academic excellence, nurturing curious minds, and cultivating independent thinking. The school’s commitment to holistic education extends beyond traditional academics to encompass a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and cultural enrichment.

The school’s diverse and inclusive community represents students from various backgrounds and nationalities. This multicultural environment not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares students to thrive in an interconnected world.

17. British School of Valencia

The British School of Valencia (BSV) is a private, coeducational, British international school located in Ruzafa, Valencia, Spain. The school offers a curriculum based on the National Curriculum of England and Wales, from Nursery to Year 13.

BSV offers boarding facilities for students aged 9 – 18 years old. The boarding house is a warm and welcoming community, where students from all over the world come together to learn and grow. The boarding house staff are dedicated to providing students with a safe and supportive environment, where they can thrive.

BSV boarding students have access to all of the school’s facilities, including the library, science labs, computer labs, art studios, music rooms, and sports facilities.

BSV offers a variety of boarding options, including full-time boarding, weekly boarding, and flexi-boarding. This allows students to choose the boarding option that best meets their needs.

18. The British School of Gran Canaria

The British School of Gran Canaria is one of the distinguished private boarding schools in Spain. This school embodies the rich traditions of British education while embracing a global perspective.

At The British School of Gran Canaria, students benefit from a comprehensive British curriculum that spans from Early Years to Sixth Form. The school’s educational philosophy centers around fostering academic excellence, critical thinking, and independent learning. It encourages students to explore their potential, develop a strong sense of identity, and become lifelong learners.

Beyond traditional academics, the school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and cultural enrichment. This holistic approach to education ensures that students not only excel academically but also become well-rounded individuals.

19. El Limonar International School Villamartín

El Limonar International School Villamartín is a part of the esteemed El Limonar International Schools, a network of international British curriculum schools catering to boys and girls from ages 3 to 18.

These schools provide a comprehensive education following the National Curriculum for England and Wales, ensuring that students are well-prepared for further education, both within Spain and on a global scale.

As an international British school, students at El Limonar International School Villamartín benefit from a unique blend of educational approaches. They receive a solid foundation based on the Spanish Curriculum and the innovative, hands-on character of the British Curriculum.

This dual approach leads to students graduating with dual official qualifications: the British IGCSEs and the Spanish ‘Graduate in Compulsory Secondary Education’ certificate at the end of Secondary school, and the Spanish ‘Baccalaureate’ certificate along with English A-Level certificates upon completing their Sixth Form studies.

20. The British School of Marbella

The British School of Marbella, known as BISM, is one of the leading private boarding schools in Spain, offering a world-class education to Early Years, Primary, and Secondary pupils. As an ambitious school, BISM is uniquely committed to helping each student succeed both academically and personally, making it a unique and cherished place of learning.

The British School of Marbella is affiliated with the British Schools Foundation (BSF), where many students have achieved the highest academic results, gained admission to top universities, and entered prestigious professional roles.

Beyond academic success, the school also offers outstanding boarding facilities that places significant focus on the personal development of its pupils.

BSF offers boarding facilities for students aged 10-18 years old. The boarding house is located on the school campus and can accommodate up to 160 students.

BSF boarding students have access to all of the school’s facilities, including the library, science labs, computer labs, art studios, music rooms, and sports facilities. They also have access to a dedicated boarding house common room, where they can relax and socialize with their friends.

FAQs

Are private schools in Spain free?

No. In Spain, public education is free and compulsory for children aged six to sixteen. However, tuition fees are enforced by the school and vary by institution for semi-private, private, and international schools.

Do private schools in Spain wear uniforms?

Yes. Students who attend private schools in Spain are mandated to wear a school uniform.

What is the best country to go to boarding school?

There are many great countries to go to boarding school, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most popular countries for boarding schools include:

Spain
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Canada

Which are the top 5 boarding girls schools?

The top 5 best girls boarding schools include:

Hopetown Girls’ School
Cheltenham Ladies’ College
Miss Porter’s School
Vantage Hall Girls’ Residential School
Dana Hall School

Conclusion

The top 20 best private boarding schools in Spain are all excellent options for students who are looking for a high-quality education in a supportive and enriching environment. These schools offer a variety of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and boarding options to meet the needs of all students.

From the cosmopolitan streets of Barcelona to the picturesque landscapes of Andalusia, these boarding schools in Spain not only offer a world-class education but also immerse students in the unique and diverse culture of Spain.

Whether you’re a parent seeking the best educational opportunities for your child or a student aspiring to broaden horizons in a vibrant and culturally rich environment, these schools represent the pinnacle of education in Spain.

20 Best Private Boarding Schools in Spain

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