Exploring International Education on the Costa Blanca: A Guide to Orihuela Costa’s International Schools
Nestled along the southeastern coast of Spain is the vibrant region of Orihuela Costa, a place where sun-soaked beaches meet a diverse, multilingual community. This area, rich in culture and history, has become an increasingly popular choice for expatriate families, attracted not only by its enticing Mediterranean lifestyle but also by its diverse offering of high-quality international education.
International schools in Orihuela Costa provide students with a globally recognized curriculum, predominantly English-based, which equips students with the skills and qualifications needed to pursue further education anywhere in the world. These schools serve as multicultural hubs where children from various backgrounds learn together, offering a unique environment that fosters cultural understanding and global citizenship.
1. El Limonar International School Villamartín
- Curriculum: El Limonar International School Villamartín (ELIS Villamartín) follows the British Curriculum from Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to A-levels. The school also offers the Spanish Baccalaureate.
- Location: The school is located in Villamartín, Orihuela Costa in the province of Alicante, Spain. Its campus includes science labs, sports facilities, and an art and music room.
- Language: The primary language of instruction is English, but the school also teaches Spanish and other languages as part of its curriculum.
- Extracurricular Activities: ELIS Villamartín offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, art, and clubs, and it emphasizes developing each student’s individual talents.
- Accreditation: The school is recognized by the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS) and accredited by the British Council.
- Website: https://ellimonarinternational.com/
2. Phoenix International School Alicante
- Curriculum: Phoenix International School follows the English National Curriculum for students aged from 3 to 18 years old, culminating in IGCSE and A-Level examinations.
- Location: The school is located in San Miguel de Salinas, Alicante, Spain, and it includes facilities such as science labs, art rooms, a sports area, and a swimming pool.
- Language: English is the main language of instruction in this school.
- Extracurricular Activities: The school offers a range of extracurricular activities including sports, music, drama, and various clubs.
- Accreditation: Phoenix International School is a member of the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS).
- Website: https://phoenixinternationalschool.es/
3. The O’Brien International School Torrevieja
- Curriculum: The school follows the English National Curriculum from early years up to A-levels.
- Location: The O’Brien International School is located in Torrevieja, a seaside city located on the Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante.
- Language: The language of instruction at this school is English.
- Extracurricular Activities: The school offers a wide range of activities and clubs that cover a broad spectrum of interests, from music and sports to academic clubs.
- Accreditation: The O’Brien International School is accredited by the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS).
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/theobrienlanguagecentre/
4. Willow International School Ciudad Quesada
- Curriculum: Willow International School offers the English National Curriculum for students from 3 to 18 years old.
- Location: The school is situated in Ciudad Quesada, Rojales, in the province of Alicante, Spain.
- Language: Instruction is primarily in English.
- Extracurricular Activities: This school offers various extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, music, and academic clubs.
- Accreditation: As of my last update, I recommend reaching out to the school for information regarding its accreditation status.
- Website: https://willowinternationalschool.es/
5. IES Playa Flamenca
- Curriculum: IES Playa Flamenca is a public school that offers the Spanish national curriculum, including compulsory secondary education (ESO) and post-compulsory education (Bachillerato).
- Location: The school is located in Playa Flamenca, Orihuela Costa, Alicante, Spain.
- Language: The main language of instruction is Spanish, but English is also taught as a second language.
- Extracurricular Activities: This school offers a variety of activities such as sports, arts, and other cultural activities.
- Accreditation: As a public school, IES Playa Flamenca is accredited by the Ministry of Education of Spain.
- Website: https://portal.edu.gva.es/iesplayaflamenca/es/
6. King’s College Alicante
- Curriculum: King’s College Alicante follows the English National Curriculum from early years to A-levels.
- Location: The school is located in Alicante, a city on the Costa Blanca in southeastern Spain. Its campus includes modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and sports facilities.
- Language: The primary language of instruction is English.
- Extracurricular Activities: Beyond the academic curriculum, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, art, drama, and various clubs and societies.
- Accreditation: King’s College Alicante is inspected and accredited by the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS) and is a member of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS).
- Website: https://www.alicante.kingscollegeschools.org/
Final thoughts
Orihuela Costa, located in the southeastern coast of Spain, is home to a diverse range of international schools that cater to its multicultural community. These schools offer primarily English-based curricula that follow internationally recognized standards, ensuring students are equipped with globally competitive skills and qualifications. From El Limonar International School Villamartín to King’s College Alicante, these institutions offer comprehensive academic programs along with a variety of extracurricular activities. In addition, public schools like IES Playa Flamenca offer the Spanish national curriculum for a local cultural immersion. As a result, families in Orihuela Costa and nearby regions like Alicante have a wealth of high-quality educational choices that cater to different needs and preferences.
Juan Micó, Director of iberohomes.com, API Associate No. 132
