Schools & Families in Tossa de Mar

Spain's education system is divided into stages: Educación Infantil (ages 3-6, optional but free), Educación Primaria (ages 6-12, compulsory), and Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (ESO, ages 12-16, compulsory). In Catalonia, these are known as Educació Infantil, Educació Primària, and Educació Secundària Obligatòria. State schools are free, and the system is managed by the Departament d'Educació of the Generalitat de Catalunya.

In Tossa de Mar, the provision is straightforward: one state primary school (CEIP Sant Jordi) and one state secondary school (IES Tossa de Mar). Both are co-educational and follow the Catalan curriculum. There are no concertado (semi-private) or private schools in the town.

Catalan is the main language of instruction in all state schools in Catalonia, including Tossa de Mar. Spanish is taught as a subject and used in some subjects depending on the school's linguistic project. For children who arrive with no Catalan, schools are required to provide linguistic support, but the extent varies. It's worth noting that Catalan is also the language of daily life in Tossa de Mar, so children will be immersed in it outside the classroom too.

CEIP Sant Jordi is the only state primary school in Tossa de Mar, serving children from age 3 to 12. It's located in the town centre, and most local children attend. The school follows the Catalan curriculum, with a focus on literacy and numeracy, as well as Catalan culture and language.

IES Tossa de Mar is the town's state secondary school, offering compulsory secondary education (ESO) for ages 12-16. It's also in the town, so older children can walk or cycle. After ESO, students can continue to Batxillerat (post-16) or vocational training, but these options may require travel to nearby towns like Lloret de Mar or Girona.

Both schools are free, and places are guaranteed for children living in the municipality, provided you enrol during the official window.

There are no international or private schools in Tossa de Mar. The nearest British-curriculum school is in Girona, about 45 km away. This is a significant daily commute, so most families living in Tossa de Mar choose the local state schools. If you're set on a British education, you'd need to consider living closer to Girona or Barcelona, or be prepared for a long school run.

Enrolment for state schools in Catalonia typically opens in March and closes in April for the following academic year. The exact dates are published annually by the Departament d'Educació and the Ajuntament de Tossa de Mar. To apply, you must be registered on the municipal padrón (population register) at the town hall. This is a simple process, but you'll need your passport, proof of address, and, if applicable, your NIE (foreigner's identification number).

Applications are submitted online or at the school, and places are allocated based on criteria such as proximity to the school, siblings already enrolled, and family income. For new arrivals, it's essential to start the process early, as late applications may not be considered.

For children under 3, there is a public nursery (Llar d'Infants) in Tossa de Mar, but details are limited. The town hall manages admissions, and places are often in high demand. Fees are income-based, and you'll need to register your child on the padrón to apply. For specific information, contact the Ajuntament de Tossa de Mar.

Adult education in Tossa de Mar is provided by the Escola d'Adults de Tossa de Mar, which offers basic education, Catalan language courses, and preparation for official exams. These courses are often free or low-cost, and they're a good way for new residents to improve their Catalan and integrate into the community. For current schedules and enrolment, check with the town hall.

The biggest consideration for British families is language. Catalan is the primary language in schools, and while children pick it up quickly, it can be a challenge initially. The school will provide support, but it's a good idea to start learning Catalan yourself to help your child. Also, be aware that the school day is longer than in the UK, typically from 9am to 4:30pm, with a lunch break.

Another point is the lack of international schools. If you're planning a long-term move, the local schools are a solid choice, but if you might return to the UK or want a British curriculum, you'll need to factor in the commute to Girona or consider other locations.

Tossa de Mar's education system is simple and community-focused, but it's not for everyone. If you're happy for your children to be educated in Catalan and to integrate fully into local life, the state schools are a good option. However, if you want a British or international curriculum, Tossa de Mar is not the right base—the nearest option is 45 km away in Girona, which is impractical for a daily commute. For most families, the local schools work well, especially for younger children who adapt quickly. But for older children or those with special educational needs, you'll need to look beyond the town.

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