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Families moving to Marbella tend to ask the same question early on: which school, and how far is it from home? This guide explains how international education is organised on the Costa del Sol, which curricula are on offer, and how the school run should shape your choice of neighbourhood and property.
In this article
Which curricula are available in Marbella
The Costa del Sol has a long-established international education offer. Alongside Spanish and bilingual schools, you will find schools that follow British and American programmes and the International Baccalaureate (IB). Families arriving from the United Kingdom often look first at British-curriculum schools, while those who expect to relocate again frequently favour the IB for continuity between countries. Families planning to settle for the long term may also consider Spanish or bilingual options.
Whichever route you prefer, compare each school on the same points: curriculum and exam pathway, age range, language of instruction, university destinations, transport and the admissions calendar.
Schools families commonly shortlist
The following schools are frequently mentioned by international families. This is not a ranking and not an exhaustive list, and curricula, fees and availability should always be confirmed directly with each school.
- Aloha College, in Nueva Andalucía, a British-curriculum school close to the Golf Valley.
- Swans International School, in Marbella, following a British curriculum.
- American School of Marbella, offering an American curriculum.
- Sotogrande International School, in Sotogrande, an IB school at the western end of the coast.
How school location shapes where you live
Distance matters less than the quality of the journey. Before choosing a neighbourhood, drive the route at the real drop-off time, since coastal roads can be busy in term time. In practice, three areas tend to come up most often:
- Nueva Andalucía and the Golf Valley, which combines villas with gardens, golf and proximity to Puerto Banús and several schools.
- Sotogrande, a gated, low-density setting where family life revolves around the school, the marina and the sports clubs; our guide to Sotogrande property for sale covers it in detail.
- Marbella itself, including the Golden Mile and the surroundings of the town, for families who value restaurants, the beach and an easy airport connection. Our guide on where to live in Marbella compares the main areas.
Timing and admissions
The Spanish school year runs from September to June, and popular year groups can have waiting lists. If you are planning a move for the autumn, start conversations with schools well in advance and ask what documents they require, which usually include previous school reports and identification. Mid-year entry is sometimes possible, but it depends on availability in each year group.
Choosing a property around the school run
Families usually look for a different set of features from second-home buyers: a secure, quiet street, a garden and pool for the children, a bedroom layout that works for several age groups, and space for a home office. Gated communities can add privacy and a safe environment for children to play. You can browse luxury properties for sale in Marbella or filter by properties with a swimming pool.
If you are relocating from abroad, our guide to moving to Marbella as an international buyer and the page on the process of purchasing real estate explain the practical steps, and our services describe how we support families from the first visit.
Frequently asked questions
Are there international schools in Marbella?
Yes. The Costa del Sol has several international schools offering British, American and IB programmes, as well as bilingual options. Confirm curriculum and availability with each school.
Which curriculum is best for relocating families?
It depends on your plans. British curricula suit many families coming from the UK, while the IB is often chosen by families who expect to move between countries. Spanish and bilingual schools suit long-term integration.
Should school location influence where I buy?
It is worth considering. Test the school run at peak times and compare areas such as Nueva Andalucía, Sotogrande and the Marbella area before shortlisting properties.
When should I apply?
As early as possible, ideally several months before the move, since some year groups have waiting lists. Ask each school about its admissions timeline.
Tell us about your family and your timeline, and BARNES Marbella will prepare a personalised selection of homes in the areas that work best for your school run. Explore our properties for sale or contact our team.