School Options for US Families in Valencia
When we moved to Valencia, I thought the hardest part would be choosing an apartment. Or navigating Spanish bureaucracy. Or learning how to say "where is the trash can?" in Spanish.
Nope. The hardest part? Figuring out where to send our girls to school.
Public? Private? Concertado? International? Hogwarts?
Here’s what we learned, what we chose, and what it’s actually like now that we’re in it.
The 3 Main School Types in Valencia
1. Public Schools (Colegios Públicos)
These are free, fully state-run schools. Spanish and Valencian are the main languages, and most follow a split-day schedule: 9:00–12:30 and 3:00–4:30.
Why it works:
Totally free
Local kids = local community
Real immersion in Spanish culture
Why it might not:
Valencian curriculum can be tough at first
Less individualized attention
Homework might be in a language you don’t speak (yet!)
2. Concertado Schools (Semi-Private)
These are partially funded by the state and have low monthly tuition.
Why it works:
Bilingual programs more common
Uniforms and good support staff
Smaller class sizes
Affordable!
Why it might not:
Most are religious
Waitlists can be long
Still may use a lot of Valencian
3. Private & International Schools
Fully private and often English-based or bilingual. Ranges from Montessori to British or IB curriculum.
Why it works:
English-speaking teachers = early comfort
Gentle integration
Creative or project-based approaches
Flexible schedules
Why it might not:
Costs €500–€1,000/month per child
Farther from city center
Fewer local connections
Why We Chose Private Montessori
Frances is a deep thinker. Evelyn is... Evelyn. 😆 Montessori gave us:
Mixed-age classes
Gentle intro to Spanish and Valencian
Loving teachers who speak multiple languages
Community potlucks that sealed the deal
What Other Parents Say
“Public school is rough the first year, but my daughter is fluent now—and thriving.”
“Concertado was the best balance for us. Affordable, but with real structure.”
“We tried public and then switched to international because my son couldn’t keep up emotionally.”
“I wish I knew how hard the paperwork would be!”
Application Tips
Start early. Registration opens in spring for fall enrollment.
Visit in person. Get a feel for the vibe.
Ask parents. Moms know. Always.
Don't panic. Kids are adaptable. You can switch schools.
Final Thoughts from Amanda
There’s no perfect answer. Just the best fit for your family right now.
If it doesn’t work? Switch. Your kid will survive. So will you. ❤️
Tags: Valencia Schools, Expat Parenting, Private vs Public Spain, Montessori Valencia, Education in Spain, Moving to Spain with Kids