Choosing a school in Madrid is an essential decision for parents, as it can determine the professional future of their children. Location, academic quality, values, educational approach, reputation, languages, and extracurricular activities are some of the most important factors when comparing different schools. We know it is not an easy decision and, because of this, in this article, we will explain what types of schools currently exist and give some tips on how to choose a school in Madrid.

What do you need to know before choosing a school in Madrid?

Although many parents consider that the pedagogical project is the most important thing when choosing a school in Madrid, the truth is that practical and ideological aspects should be considered. A general idea of what kind of person you want your child to be, what kind of abilities you want them to develop, and what values you would like to teach them.

In addition, it is also a good idea to get to know the centre in person and see if the facilities are in good condition of health and hygiene to guarantee the wellbeing of our children.

In any case, avoid making a hasty decision. Bear in mind that your child is likely to be in school for several years, so it is important to be sure and consider all aspects before choosing a particular school.

Types of schools in Madrid

Choosing a school in Madrid is not always easy. Currently, there are three types of schools to choose from:

  • Public schools: they are created, managed, and financed by the public funds from the State. As a result, education, apart from being free, is secular and inclusive. In general, children spend about five hours in the classroom.
  • Charter schools: they are created and managed privately, but funds come mainly from the State, with a small percentage of their funding being supplemented by money from parents. They usually provide six hours of lessons per day, which translates into an average of 220 hours more per year than public schools.
  • Private schools: they are created, managed, and funded entirely privately by the fees paid by families. However, they must follow the same general curriculum as other schools. As in the case of charter schools, they usually provide a school day of 6 hours per day, so children also receive more education than public schools. In addition, these schools tend to have a wide education offer, more extracurricular activities, and a more personalised attention to students.

Tips to choose a school in Madrid

We all want the best for our children and it is clear that the educational stage is one of the key moments that will have an impact on children’s lives.  From the age of 3, they will spend most of the week in a school where they will learn not only theoretical knowledge but also develop and defend themselves in life.

For this reason, to be certain and have the peace of mind that you are well informed when choosing a school in Madrid for your children, there are certain questions that you should consider:

Facilities

One of the most important aspects when evaluating different educational institutions is their facilities, especially those used on a daily basis. Don’t be swayed by idyllic common areas alone, as it is in the daily-use classrooms where you can best observe the type of groupings and materials used. Even the decoration says a lot, as it can make you feel more connected to the school’s philosophy and what you want for your children.

Hastings School has six modern campuses in Madrid, designed to provide a safe and welcoming educational environment, with easy access and equipped with specialized facilities for each educational stage.

Teaching Staff

Although facilities are important, the heart of any school is its teachers. It’s essential to know their specific qualifications, experience, and whether they undergo regular professional development to keep their knowledge up-to-date.

The teaching staff at Hastings School consists of native British teachers specialized in their respective fields. They are committed to delivering high-quality education, continuously updating their training to implement innovative teaching methods tailored to each student’s individual needs, ensuring a dynamic and personalized learning environment.

School’s Educational Methodology

When choosing a school in Madrid, you might be guided by some of the best-known alternative pedagogies. You’ve probably heard of the Montessori educational system, which focuses on learning through play. Another well-known approach is the Pikler pedagogy, which emphasizes emotional management and the theory of positive attachment.

At Hastings School, the educational methodology is based on the British Curriculum, with a focus on the holistic development of students. This approach promotes active and dynamic learning, where students not only gain academic knowledge but also life skills such as creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Language of Instruction

One of the main concerns for parents when choosing a school in Madrid is the language of instruction. The language in which classes are taught plays a key role in a child’s future development, whether it’s their native language or a foreign one. Some parents place great importance on their children attending British or bilingual schools, or even schools where the primary language is foreign.

Why Choose Hastings School in Madrid?

In conclusion, school education is a crucial phase in our children’s lives, both personally and professionally, making it essential to choose carefully, considering all the factors mentioned above. While it’s not an easy decision, there’s no need to be overwhelmed. It’s important to understand that no school is perfect, but rather, the goal is to choose the one that best suits your child’s needs.

Hastings School is an excellent option as an international private school in Madrid, offering quality education based on the British Curriculum and an innovative approach that fosters both academic and personal development. With modern facilities, personalized attention, and a focus on 21st-century skills, Hastings prepares its students for success in a global environment.