Schools & Families in Malaga

Education in Málaga is overseen by the Andalusian regional government (Junta de Andalucía). The system is divided into stages:

• Infantil (Early Childhood Education): Ages 0–6. Non-compulsory but widely attended. It has two cycles: 0–3 (guarderías or nurseries) and 3–6 (pre-school).
• Primaria (Primary Education): Ages 6–12. Compulsory and free in public schools.
• Secundaria Obligatoria (ESO): Ages 12–16. Compulsory and free in public schools.
• Bachillerato (Post-Compulsory Secondary): Ages 16–18. Optional but necessary for university admission.

The school year runs from September to June, with breaks at Christmas and Easter.

Málaga has four main types of schools:

• Public schools (colegios públicos): Free, funded by the state.
• Concertado schools (semi-private): State-funded but may charge fees for extras. They often have a religious or specific ethos.
• Private schools (colegios privados): Fee-paying, with no state funding.
• International schools: Often private, offering curricula such as the British, American, or International Baccalaureate.

According to isbi.com, there is a big choice of high-quality schools in Málaga, including day and boarding schools, single-sex and co-educational, and leading private nurseries and primary schools.

In public schools, the language of instruction is Spanish. However, many public schools in Andalucía offer bilingual programmes where some subjects are taught in English. These are popular, so places may be limited.

International schools teach in English, with Spanish as a second language. For example, Sunland International School uses English as the primary language, and St George's School has all native English-speaking teachers.

For adults or older students, there are Spanish language schools such as Carlos V Educations, an Instituto Cervantes Accredited Centre located 15 minutes' walk from the historic centre.

Local state schools are free and compulsory for children aged 6 to 16. They follow the Andalusian curriculum, and many offer bilingual programmes in English. Placement is based on catchment areas, so it's important to apply early and consider your address.

For your local state school, contact the Junta de Andalucía or the school directly. The Junta oversees all public and concertado schools in the region. If you are not offered a place at your preferred school, you may be placed elsewhere.

Concertado schools are semi-private and state-funded but may charge for extras. They often have a religious or specific ethos.

Several international schools are well-established in the Málaga area:

• Sunland International School: Opened in 2001, located near Cartama Estacion, close to Málaga University and the Scientific and Technological Park of Andalucia. It is about 25 minutes from central Málaga. It offers an international curriculum, including the International Baccalaureate, and teaches in English. It currently serves Early Years and Primary (ages 3–9), expanding annually.
• St George's School: Opened in 2000, a co-educational international school for ages 3–18. It is a British school belonging to the National Association of British Schools, with all teachers being native English speakers. It has two sites: Foundation Years and Primary/Secondary. A bus service covers areas across Málaga province. A school uniform is compulsory.
• The British School of Málaga: Listed among the Best Private Schools in Spain and Best Schools in Malaga by MiCole rankings, and Best International Schools by El Mundo in 2025. It offers a British-style education.

For a broader view, the International Schools Database lists the top international schools in Málaga and the Costa del Sol, with rankings updated in 2026. These are just a few examples; there are many other international and private schools in the area.

For public and concertado schools, the main application window is in spring, typically in March, with placement lists published after that. The exact dates vary each year, so check with the Junta de Andalucía or the school. The application is typically submitted through the Junta de Andalucía, either online or at the school.

If you arrive outside the regular admissions period, such as over the summer, you can still enrol. Españaula advises that you should secure housing and obtain your padrón (municipal registration) before approaching schools. You will need to contact the school directly or the local education office to arrange a place. The school will advise on the required documentation, which typically includes your padrón, passport, and previous school records.

For private and international schools, admissions are handled directly by the school. You will need to apply and may be required to attend an interview or assessment.

For children under 3, nurseries (guarderías) are available, though they are not free. The first cycle of Infantil (0–3) is typically private, while the second cycle (3–6) is often provided in public schools and is free. Many private nurseries and international schools also offer early years programmes.

Málaga has options for higher education and adult learning:

• Spanish language schools: Carlos V Educations is a well-known option for learning Spanish.
• Private universities: Universidad Alfonso X El Sabio Mare Nostrum is a private university opening in Málaga in 2025, offering programmes in business, technology, law, and health sciences.
• Nearby institutions: Les Roches Marbella, a prestigious hospitality and tourism school, is located in nearby Marbella and attracts students from across the region.

• Anti-bullying protocol: Every public and concertado school in Andalucía follows an official anti-bullying protocol. If you have concerns, you can report them in writing, and the school must act.
• Summer camps: Many schools offer summer camps from when school ends through July. These can help your child settle in and improve language skills.
• School placement: After applying, placement lists are published after March. If you are not offered a place at your preferred school, you may be placed elsewhere. It's important to apply early and consider catchment areas.
• Padrón: Registering on the municipal padrón is often required for school enrolment, so do this as soon as you have a permanent address.

Málaga offers a strong mix of schooling options, but the trade-off is between cost and language immersion. Public schools are free and excellent for integrating into Spanish life, but instruction is in Spanish, which may be challenging for children who don't yet speak it. International schools like St George's and Sunland provide continuity in English but come with fees. For British families who want a smooth transition, an international school is often worth the investment, while those planning to stay long-term might prefer the local system. Málaga suits families who value choice and are willing to navigate the enrolment process, especially if you secure your padrón early.

• Malaga Education - Cities Insider (Cities Insider)
• Españaula Blog: Your Guide to Schools & Education in Málaga & the Costa del Sol (Españaula)
• Best private schools in Malaga (ISBI)
• Schools in Malaga, Andalucía, Costa del Sol, Spain (Andalucia.com)
• 10 Best International Schools in Malaga - Costa del Sol (September 2026 Rankings) (International Schools Database)
• The British School of Málaga: International School in Spain (The British School of Málaga)
• Education options in Malaga - BluCee Real Estate (BluCee Real Estate)
• Spanish schools - Visita Málaga (Visita Málaga (Málaga City Council tourism))