All About Education 2019

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A 12-page Olive Press special supplement

Education

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January 30th - February 12th 2019

15

The Only Specialist Sixth Form College in Málaga

January 30th - February 12th 2019

Choosing the right school can be a puzzle of Einstein proportions for parents. But problem solved - we’ve done the homework for you, writes Laurence Dollimore

P

ENCIL cases to fill, textbooks to buy, packed lunch menus to plan weeks in advance… the first day of school can be as big a deal for parents as it is for their kids.

For new students, those first tentative steps across a schoolyard filled with strangers is one of life’s key rites of passage.

So making sure it’s the right school is a test all parents want to pass with flying colours.

Whether it’s playschool, primary school or secondary school, parents in Andalucia and Gibraltar have as many choices as back home in Holland, Sweden or the UK. Of course, your selection will depend on certain key factors: distance from home, budget, academic standards, teaching style and word-of-mouth recommendations, to name just a few.

So where do you start?

The first item on your checklist should be Public or Private – do you opt for an international college or a Spanish state school?

It’s generally an easier decision to make for younger children, as primary schools throughout Europe are more or less comparable.

Around two thirds of expats send their children to local state schools – called ‘colegios’ (primary schools) and ‘institutos’ (secondary schools).

There are two serious advantages to Spanish public schools.

One – children will learn Spanish fast and should integrate well into their new home country.

Younger children, in general, thrive in state schools with the under nines normally picking up impressive spoken Spanish (usually, far better than their parents) within a year, just by socialising with their friends.

Two – state schooling is free of charge from the age of three, when children can Continues on Page 16

We look for students of diverse academic levels who have the drive to discover their true potential. Founded by three teachers with much UK & International School teaching / education administration experience, who have lived for almost 20 years in Málaga, we are a selective private school, teaching A-levels & PCE (selectividad) subjects. Our A-level teachers are highly committed and qualified with degrees from Oxford University, Trinity College Dublin and Durham University and we enable students to gain access to university not just in the UK, but also in Spain and the rest of the world.

Is the chemistry right?

Our Subjects: Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Geography, Politics, Spanish & Further Maths, alongside a choice of six Spanish PCE subjects (selectividad).

This year we plan to add Business, IT and Law We are at: Calle Méndez Núñez 5, 1º D (junto a plaza Uncibay) Málaga 29008 Call us on: +34 952 22 02 75 Email us at: info@phoenixcollegemalaga.com

www.phoenixcollegemalaga.com

ROCKET SCIENCE: For pupils at Sotogrande school

g Open Mornin uary on 18th Febr ary 10:00 - prim ary nd co se 12:00

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ll about

The art of learning

Education

January 30th - February 12th 2019

From front

begin attending ‘infantile’ or ‘pre-es- in the school and try to get to know colar’, equivalent to a nursery in the the other Spanish parents. Joining UK. The only costs you’ll have to co- the parents/teachers association ver are books, school trips and, if the certainly helps.” school has them, uniforms.

If you decide against the Spanish There are also plenty of downsides to state system – either because you Spanish schools. Older, less extrovert fear educational standards are low kids with limited Spanish can have (according to reports, Andalucia does trouble adjusting. And learning maths indeed come well below average), or and physics in a foreign idiom isn’t for because you prefer to have your chilsissies! dren educated in English – then you Also throwing them into Spanish will have no choice but to go private. schools if they are over nine can be Budget is a major consideration but daunting in the extreme. many expat parents say an internatioIt is definitely worth considering ex- nal school gives a gentler introduction tra language tuition outside school to education in a foreign country, with hours to help ease the transition. smaller classes taught in English.

Budget up to €20 per hour for private Most international schools even folessons - although there are plenty of llow a UK curriculum of GCSE and excellent local acadeA-levels, with a nummies, offering Spanish ber of local schools reand some town halls gularly seeing their puAnd learning even give free classes. pils getting into the top Your children will not British universities, maths and only be more able to including Oxbridge. physics in a keep up with lessons International schools but they are far more have very different foreign idiom is likely to make friends personalities and phiif they can socialise in not for sissies! losophies, and it’s very the same language. much a matter of per“It is fine if you get the sonal preference. But kids into school early, with more than two at a young age, but if they are nine dozen on the Costa del Sol alone, or 10 then they will find it harder,” ad- there are more than enough to choovises one English parent whose two se from. children have been through the local Marbella – with more than 40,000 system on the Costa del Sol. resident foreigners – has the lar“They will almost certainly need some gest concentration of international extra tuition and watching carefully. It schools after Madrid and Barcelona. also helps if the parents get involved But most of the towns on the coast

Tips for choosing a new school lIgnore the glossy brochures - go to the school and see for yourself lMeet the head, meet the teachers, and meet the students lIf the students seem happy, chances are your child will be happy too lBe clear about what you want from a school - do lots of research lLook at the exam results lFind out about opening or taster days

CREATIVITY: Art and music at Laude, while (below) netball enjoyed at Prior Park have one or two schools, while Gibraltar has a couple of its own.

The rise of international schools in Spain can be traced back to former dictator General Franco, who introduced tourism to the Costa del Sol. Since then, a torrent of foreign visitors settling along the coast has turned it into a melting pot of cultures, providing endless opportunities for education start-ups.

British schools are now said to account for two-thirds of the international schools on the coast.

The oldest is Swans International School, established in 1971, and named after its legendary headmistress and founder, Tessa Swan.

Others include Sotogrande, established in 1978, which now numbers 980 pupils. Only a few other schools, including Laude, come near that number.

Most British schools are members of the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS) and are inspected regularly by the group, a set-up similar to the UK’s Ofsted inspections.

A great advantage for many parents is that international schools often have a more multicultural environment than state schools. Most have some 20 different nationalities attending and offer a bilingual study programme.

Paul Whitelock, a former UK schools inspector based in Ronda explains: “Pupils meet other students from so many different countries.

“This is such a valuable opportunity as it awakens a curiosity for other cultures, languages, traditions, customs and even food from a very early age.”

To tie in with this, many of the top schools are increasingly offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, as well as the local secondary school qualification, the Bachillerato.

The IB – which may be unknown to

some English readers – is the normal route to university for European students.

The main difference is that IB students take six or seven subjects – which often include elements of community work and public-speaking – as opposed to just three or four at A-level.

As well as a more up-to-date, relaxed approach to teaching, international schools are generally considered to offer a better learning environment.

The most obvious downside, of course, is the cost. Schools range from basic to luxurious but, take note, they come at a price.

Fees range from €3,000 a year for primary school to between €6,000 and €20,000 per year for secondary schools. This generally does not include the cost of books, school trips or uniforms.

A further downside is that children may find themselves in something of a Spanish vacuum, unable to integrate with the local community outside the classroom.

But international schools are begin-

ning to fight this effect, with many more Spanish extracurricular activities available, more access to local culture on school trips and after-hours classes such as flamenco dancing.

Education specialist Whitelock concluded: “Effort and attitude varies considerably from family to family.

Some are content never to venture into ‘Spanish’ situations, while others make every effort to integrate, join sports clubs etc. and have much more exposure to the language.”

But there are no rulebooks or easy answers to choosing the right schools in Spain.

It really all depends on which boxes you need ticked, whether that’s affordability, integration or a smoother transition.

Just one final tip for parents who decide to go with the Spanish system: learn the language yourself. How else will you chat to your kids’ teachers at open days?

And, more important for your kids than that, how will you help them with their homework?

THE BRITISH SCHOOL OF MÁLAGA

ucation located for families in G 17 aJanuary nd 30th So- uFebruary the12th rn2019 Spa17 in .

New Sixth Form now op

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January 30th - February 12th 2019

Get to know the Spanish state system There are four phases: •

Educacion Infantil (Pre-school) - 3 to 5 years of age (inclusive, i.e. three years). This is optional.

•

Educacion Primaria (Primary Education) - 6 to 11 years of age (six years).

Compulsory.

•

•

Educacion Secundaria Obligitoria or ESO (Compulsory Secondary Education) - 12 to 15 years of age (four years).

Bachillerato (Post-Compulsory Schooling) - 16 and 17 years of age (two years).

The Pre-school stage (infantil or popularly known as pre-escolar) is free for all children but not compulsory.

However, it is regarded as an integral part of the education system with infants’ classes at almost every primary school.

There are some separate nursery schools, colegios infantiles, also.

The next two phases, primary (colegio) and secondary school (instituto) education are compulsory and free of charge.

At the end of the ESO successful pupils are awarded a Secondary Education Certificate, which is necessary to enter the post-compulsory stage of schooling for their university or vocational studies. Alternatively they may leave school and get a job.

Once pupils have their Bachillerato they can take their university entrance exam.

Leading from the front

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RIOR Park School continues to grow and is a thriving community within Gibraltar.

Now into its third year, its recent first set of GCSE examination results, from its founding cohort of students were superb, with a 100% high-grade pass rate (C or above) and an outstanding 80% of all grades being between 7-9 (A-A*).

“These results well exceeded the expected level of at-

tainment in the UK and we are immensely proud of our students for their hard work and fantastic achievements,” explains Headmaster Peter Watts.

This year is seeing another new chapter for the school, as it plans to begin accepting year 7 students, in line with the Government of Gibraltar’s recent announcement to align the education system with that of the UK. “This is fantastic news for the school and serves us well in having plans to expand the school site, a p p rove d , ” adds Watts.

“The ambitious plans will equip the school with some more outdoor, green spaces for STRUMMING AHEAD: Pupils in music lessons

Gibraltar’s first Co-educational Christian-Catholic Independent Senior School An exciting opportunity for a quality British education; ideally located for families in Gibraltar and Southern Spain.

New Sixth Form now open!

students to relax and unwind out of the classrooms, as well as new teaching classes and a state-ofthe art performance space.”

This year, all students have been handed the task of giving at least one hour per week to a charitable cause and the school continues to raise money for various local and international charities.

Students at Prior Park are also fast being active members of the wider sports community, playing fixtures against other local schools for the first time in Gibraltar’s history.

“With ambitious plans for the future of our school, we continue to support, encourage and lift up our students to be forward-thinking, compassionate and driven young individuals,” concludes Mr.Watts.

12-18 Day Co-educational Ca Old School thol

www.priorparkgibraltar. com

Life is Inspiring...

To Find out more visit our website

www.priorparkgibraltar.com 12-18 Day Co-educational Catholic Senior School

A SPANISH school in Ronda has launched a drive to keep the art of letter-writing alive.

Colegio Esclavas set a task for all its Year two pupils to write a letter about their Christmas holidays and send it to their teacher.

Here, one expat pupil goes about the task posting his effort from the central Ronda p o s t office, exactly 300m from the school.

Email: mshatwell@priorparkschools.com Tel: +350 20062006

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January 30th - February 12th 2019

Scaling walls A foreign trip to Berlin’s celebrated sites, opened the eyes of a group of Swans teenage students, writes head teacher Rob Maldonado

E

DUCATION can be so heavily weighted towards academic success that sometimes it is easy to forget the value of enriching young people's minds.

At Swans, we always strive to produce the best results that we can at IGCSE and IB level, but we also place great emphasis on what happens outside of the classroom.

On a recent trip to Berlin, I was able to experience firsthand how inspired our students can become when they are placed in a different setting and given the chance to live the lives of others.

As we wandered the sites of the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie and the many museums that retell the horrors of life in Nazi Germany and during the

20th February

Holocaust, it was amazing to see how our students developed in their interest and knowledge, asking questions that they probably would not have asked before.

There is great value in this that cannot be taught in a regular timetable.

Our most inspiring day came when we were given a walking tour by two Syrian refugees, who told their stories of fleeing a wartorn country and their experience of arriving as immigrants to Germany.

It was a chance to take our students away from the bubble that we live in on the Costa del Sol and open their eyes to the realities of the world while providing them with some modern-day politics at the same time.

The number of messages received from parents on our return showed

INSPIRED: Swans students were fascinated by the Brandenburg Gate and nearby Checkpoint Charlie

us that their children had all enjoyed a wonderful experience, and had returned wiser and more interested in the world around them.

It is our belief that this area of education is invaluable. We have been heavily involved in the European Youth Parliament during the past three years, which allows open-min-

ded students to play a role in discussing key global issues that affect us all.

Some of our students have even organised debating sessions for the Malaga region and travelled abroad to take part in International Sessions, which has been a huge responsibility.

It is our hope that, by inspiring our youngsters with such experiences, we are not only enhancing their academic education but instilling the confidence in them to become leaders in whichever field they choose.

Visit www.swansschool.net for more information

IB Open Afternoon. Information on our IB Diploma and Scholarship Programme Event at Swans Sierra Blanca | Wednesday 20th February 2019 | 4.30 pm

Our Swans IB Diploma Programme continues to grow from strength to strength. Last year, our top scorer gained 45 points (something that is achieved by less than 0.4% of candidates globally) and we regularly have a number of students that gain over 40 points, which puts them in the top 5% of IB students worldwide! Join us for more information: C/Lago de los Cisnes, s/n 29602 | T. +34 952 902 755 | www.swansschoolinternational.es

20 February 2019: IB Open Afternoon th

External Scholarships available for September 2019

4.30 pm | Swans International Sierra Blanca | Information on our IB Diploma and Scholarship Programme Our Swans IB Diploma Programme continues to grow from strength to strength. Last year, our top scorer gained 45 points (something that is achieved by less than 0.4% of candidates globally) and we regularly have a number of students that gain over 40 points, which puts them in the top 5% of IB students worldwide! Join us for more information: C/Lago de los Cisnes, s/n 29602 | T. +34 952 902 755 | www.swansschoolinternational.es

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T

HEY had a combined service of nearly half a century at Malaga’s St.George’s school before they jumped ship to set up their own exciting educational establishment.

And it’s top marks for the trio of Kirsty Ridyard, James Riley and Alex Mitchell who had the brainwave to open the first Sixth Form College in Andalucia.

Having graduated from the triumvirate of Oxford, Durham and Trinity College Dublin, their CVs alone suggest that Malaga’s Phoenix College will be a roaring success.

And so it is coming to pass in their first academic year with 16 students studying for A-Levels in a range of subjects from maths to chemistry and Spanish to history.

“They are all aiming very high,” explains school secretary Lisa Paullada, who previously ran her own language

January 30th - February 12th 2019

Phoenix rising

January 30th - February 12th 2019 The College is owned by a board of investors (which includes the three teachers, parents and local businessmen) which has ‘an invaluable advisory role’.

The College represents a ‘stepping stone’ between school and university, so students are given more freedom, such as ‘study periods’ in the timetable where they organise their own work.

Students are expected to work hard and take responsibility for their learning, which is guided and supervised by the team.

The PCE (Selectividad) subjects are Matemáticas Cientificas, Física, Química, Biología, Matemáticas Aplicadas and Economia de Empresa.

The PSC (Personal, Social and Cultural) desire to make the best of themsel- Programme helps students to set their ves,” adds bilingual Lisa, who is origi- own termly targets to expand their horizons and experiences. nally from Wales.

The private day-school teaches Briti- “Each student is encouraged to push sh A-levels, International A-levels and the boundaries of their comfort zones, PCE (Selectividad) subjects for those developing existing skills and seeking wishing to access Spanish Universities. new ones, always with the guidance Students join after completing GCSE of a Personal Tutor who students see (year 11) or 4ª ESO at other schools, in every morning,” adds Lisa.

“Any difficulties can also be discussed the year that they reach then, or an appointthe age of 16. ment made to talk The A-level courses, the things through in more Degrees UK equivalent to Badetail. chillerato in Spain, give from Oxford “The Programme also students access to university not just in the UK University, Trinity helps students to make important decisions but also in Spain and College Dublin about their futures the rest of the world. through events such as “Our teachers are comand Durham trips to University Fairs mitted and highly qualiand visits from profesfied with degrees from sionals and former stuOxford University, Trinidents.” ty College Dublin and Durham and all New subjects, including Business have UK Qualified Teacher Status.

“English is their first language and they Studies, ICT, Law and Economics are have a proven track record of helping among the subjects to be added in the students to achieve places at the best coming months.

Universities in the UK, Spain and elwww.phoenixcollegemalaga.com sewhere in the world.”

A trio of talented teachers have set up Malaga’s first Sixth Form college, writes Jon Clarke school in Santander.

“Quite a few of them are hoping to get into Oxbridge and their initial grades

TOP OF THE CLASS: Teachers and students at Phoenix

are excellent.”

The central philosophy of the college - set up in one of the coolest parts of central Malaga city - is that all students fulfill their individual potential and achieve the best that they are capable of.

“We use interviews to select interested students and ask for references to ensure that they have a satisfactory minimum academic level and above all, the

The Only Specialist Sixth Form College in Málaga We look for students of diverse academic levels who have the drive to discover their true potential. Founded by three teachers with much UK & International School teaching / education administration experience, who have lived for almost 20 years in Málaga, we are a selective private school, teaching A-levels & PCE (selectividad) subjects. Our A-level teachers are highly committed and qualified with degrees from Oxford University, Trinity College Dublin and Durham University and we enable students to gain access to university not just in the UK, but also in Spain and the rest of the world.

Our Subjects: Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Geography, Politics, Spanish & Further Maths, alongside a choice of six Spanish PCE subjects (selectividad).

This year we plan to add Business, IT and Law We are at: Calle Méndez Núñez 5, 1º D (junto a plaza Uncibay) Málaga 29008 Call us on: +34 952 22 02 75 Email us at: info@phoenixcollegemalaga.com

www.phoenixcollegemalaga.com

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School name: The British Sch of Malaga (formerly St Georgeool ) Loc ation: Ma January 30th - February 12th laga2019 Founded: 2000

Head teacher: Fiona Lee-All an Gibraltar’s firs Cur ricu lum : t Co-education Christian-Cat Brit a National Curriculum l holiish c Independent Senior School rec Contact: +34 952 290 149 or eption@stgeorgemalaga.co m An exciting op Reasons for choice: portunishitSchyoolfoofrMaalaga, previou quality British asTheStBrit George, offers the British nat s ion culu edlea ma totchi ldren from 3 to 18. “I firmly urnin c io From Gibraltar to Malaga, the Olive Press n ; id e g can a only take plall locateprivate cey d for familie are happy, safe and curious when you presents report cards from seven leading and it is ou teas chein rs to ign itertha G t lea ib rnin a l lt schools a r rg”,leaexp principal Fiona Lee-Allan. “Ou and Southern pos rnin efu l and refl Spoffe s the modern worl ainring. the besect t chance of cess. We also place signific examinat tural, social and education ant value New Sixth For you al experien ngsters to discover and dev m nresots.” elop ne w open!

rUNNING A RULE School name: Swans International School

Location: Marbella

School nam

Founded: 1971 School Principal & Head of Primary: Karen Kearns Head of Secondary: Rob Maldonado Curriculum: UK National Curriculum in all Key Stages alongside Spanish National Curriculum/ GCSE in Key Stage 4/ IB Diploma Programme in Sixth Form Contact: 952773248 (Primary) / 952902755 (Secondary) admin@swansschool.net Reasons for choice: Swans International School is one of the longest serving schools on the Costa del Sol and has a reputation for academic excellence in a familiar environment. Based on two sites in central Marbella, it boasts excellent facilities, enjoyed by over 850 students currently on the roll. The Primary school has garnered its reputation through a large number of long-serving staff members who instill the values that the school carries through to the end of Secondary, where academic results at GCSE and IB level compete with the best students globally and ensure that they gain places at some of the world's best universities.

School na Location:

me: Calpe

e: Prior Park School Location: Gib raltar Founded: 20 16 School Princ ipal: Mr Pete r Watts Curriculum: We cater fo 18. Starting r students aged betw the British C in Key Stage 3 in year een 11 and 7, we follow their GCSE’s urriculum, taking studen and A Level ts through examinations .

Contact: 0035 www.priorpa 0 20062006 or rkgibraltar.co m Reasons for choice: Prior Park S chool is the tional indepe first and on tar, offering ndent secondary scholy co-educaol in Gibrala ne w choice for across South famili very best of ern Spain. We offer stes here and specialist tethe British Curriculum udents the classroom, aching and facilities. with subject nities is vastour range of co-curricu Outside the lar , from sailing class sizes an to robotics. opportud ou ts ta nd toral care, m ing reputationOur small for pasleft behind. eans that no child at Pr boundless as Our students have am ior Park is bition the views from our terraces s as .

School name: Laude San Pedro International College Founded: 2004

12-18 Day Co-ed ucat Hughes l: Aman nalcipa Prin olio Scho Catho lic Seda nior School Curriculum:

(IGCSE, A Full British Curriculum from 3-18 years & Bachil (ESO culum Curri nal Natio ish vels). Span to) from 12 years of age.

Admiss Contact: Mercedes Colmenar, Head of .com edro sanp aude ns@l admissio Reasons for choice:

a repute Laude San Pedro International College is and bes sive inclu an ing offer ol ternational Scho ed not o education where students are encourag advan achieve academic success, but also take through of every opportunity to develop life-skills c culum curri Their es. rienc zing learning expe throu from the Early Years and Foundation stage schoo the Secondary School and Sixth Form. Thenal sc been voted high in the top 100 internatioof the in Spain ranking and is proud to be part educa national Schools’ Partnership, a growingpe as w group which now operates across Euro and North and South America, the Middle East theast Asia.

School

San Pedro de Alcanta ra Founded: College 1973 e: Phoenix School nam Head teac Málaga her: Mr J P roetta alaga Curriculu Location: M m: in Málaga 8 ge odrm 20o1lle F British Nati :C d th e ix n S u t Fo lis cover their onal Curric ecia e drive to dis ulum who have th l Sc The Only Sp naR ilehoyol tio na s er emic levels e Int ad & m ac UK Ja se h er Contact: ster:lived for almost 20 years th m s of div auc s wi era dm che k for student ree teaH loo th 9 ve e 5 ha W by o 2 d tividad) wh de 786 e, l. Foun info@calpe & PCE (selec from on experienc true potentia ing A-levels school.com029 –www.calpesc administrati th degrees hool, teachlu wi sc d / education : te fie m ali ing iva hooteal.ch qu pr u d and students com – are a selective mitte Cucorrmic and PCE d we enable in Málaga, we level teachers are highly wonrld Reasons eo University an thti a.l A-levels am of t rh res Du e Ad a r th an d an, Intern for choice blin Du ain Sp ge subjects. Ou in lle ls o Co t alsA-leve bu : rsity, Trinity sh the UK,ti Oxford Unive ty not just in Bri Despite th ss to universi ct: ividaogdra)phy, Politics, Spanish cts le to gain acce Suebje r (S e Ou sm all appeara d). ry, Ge is far more ysics, Histo cts (selectiv Ph n ry, 2ida75 or ce ist em PCE su9bje fr Spanish 4d La5w2 22 0 alaga.com 3an cessfully te to Calpe School th om the outside, Mthathematics, Biologyng, Ch + : oice ofosix ct ch a ta e IT n s, sid m es C e reer Maths, alo eg Busin plan to add @phoenixcoll) Málaga 29008 Calpe Sch aching children of at meets the eye!&SFuerth This year we info(junto a plaza Uncibay D safe and viool offers high qualitall abilities since 197uc1º malaga.com 5, ge z lle ñe co levels dez Nú phoenix at: info@ for choice: of diverse academictential.

School, webrant environment. y education in a hapW3e ,are at: Calle Mén2 22 02 75 EmRaileusaso s n 95 A p o ts 4 s y, a p n re able to a dedicate : +3 de true coum years old agra.st kalfo d Prim Call us on cater geom llege iscover their coellelo ixW e drive to d British Sixth Form Co uch and strengand concentrate on for all children fromary th www.phoen ve a h o h m ly w n h th th o it 2 s e w e w ir th rs it : e in h our team ue dividual ne ch From the of We are uniqfounded by three tea ing / education e modern spmoment you enter thhighly committed st ds ach ga, te la l á o M o for alin ch a S a ff e l ci . school thro ationa have lived ning activit ous library, you ugh the UK & Internon experience, who selective private ca ie s n b se e in e g ti dynamic le Pre-Nursery carried ou administra rs in Málaga. We are a electividad) suband thrive to Upper Key Stag t right through from armost 20 yeaching A-levels & PCE (sighly committed o e in u 2 r . th A is pe ll ch our “Happ school, tea -level teachers are h xford University, y to Learn” rsonalised environmildren benefit motto. ent fulfillin jects. Our Ad with degrees from Om University and g and qualifie ge Dublin and Durha to university not Trinity Colle ents to gain access round the world. enable studK, but also Spain and a just in the U

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e: Sotogrande School (SIS) International Location: So

togrande Founded: 19 78 Headmaster: James Kearne y Curriculum: Internationa Contact:

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www.sis.gl 95 6 795 902 ad missions@si s.gl Reasons for choice: For over 40 ye (SIS) has pr ars Sotogrande Intern environmen ovided an inspirationaational School you know yot. When you step onto l educational learning, co u are somewhere spec the campus, the air. Situ mmunity, fun and ener ial: a spirit of ated in a pict gy ning views of uresque areapermeates th with stune M ed , lessons of outside mak te and location ing the most of the beau n take place bella, Estepo. A school bus service ru tiful weather na, La Linea ns from Mar and Tarifa.

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on 18th

Bullying on rise

SPAIN has seen a significant increase in school bullying with Andalucia as the region with the most reported cases, new figures reveal.

Between 2012 and 2017 police registered a total of 5,500 incidents in students up to the age of 17 across the country, excluding Catalunya and the Pais Vasco.

Andalucia registered the most school incidents, recording 255 incidents, with Madrid following behind with 170, while Navarra and La Rioja had only four.

It comes after 15 teens were recently arrested, aged between 14 and 16, for severely bullying two brothers at Juan de Villanueva school, in Madrid.

The suspects reportedly attacked, harassed and humiliated the 13 and 15-year-old siblings, which they filmed and shared on social media.

The victims were unable to go to school for six weeks afterwards.

A recent study by the University Foundation of Health Sciences estimated that at least 20% of children suffer harassment at school, while 7% of students are exposed to physical abuse every day according to the

Let them play!

L

OOKING for a multilingual daycare centre that encourages children to be happy and creative?

Then look no further than Joy Playschool in Estepona, Atalaya.

Offering yoga, music, dancing, cooking, art and more, the school is open seven days a week and can cater for kids from eight months to 12 years.

The school has been set up by friendly mum-of-two Tabi Olamai, who has years of experience teaching art to children in Sweden and London.

And with English, Swedish, Farsi and Spanish, she’s more than likely to speak your language.

“We offer a harmonious and inspiring space for children to be happy, calm and creative,” Tabi explains, “Our facilities have been carefully designed for the new generation of children in mind.

“Clear, tranquil, uncluttered spaces allow children to be free and still, peaceful and happy in this busy world.”

Healthy food will be provided throughout the day and there are also holiday clubs.

For more information 672416209 or email info@joyplayschool.com.

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January 30th - February 12th 2019

secondary Spain sees 0 - increase 12:0an while more organisations are raising awareness for troubled teens

Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

But numerous organisations are campaigning for change, including the town of Fuenlabrada in Madrid, with a 4,000-strong march ‘against bullying’.

Each student was given a mini postbox to report cases of harassment as they

How a British education was my ticket to personal growth, writes Romanian Radu Socol, 16

walked some 24km. Meanwhile, Sevilla’s Alameda Theatre hosted a play on January 27 called Otelo #EnLaRed (Othello #Online) against school abuse and cyberbullying aimed at teenagers.

The Shakespeare adaptation sought help from the Youth Red Cross and hosted a Q&A for teens at the end.

Welcome to Laude

M

Y name is Amanda Hughes and as the Principal, it is my privilege to introduce you to our school.

Laude San Pedro is a private, co-educational school with pupils from 3-19 years old and we deliver the British National Curriculum.

In the Primary school we frame this within the International Primary Curriculum so that the content is more vibrant and relevant for our pupils.

In Secondary School and School and Sixth Form we continue the British National Curriculum so that students are entered for GCSEs and A-Levels. These examinations are the gold standard in UK academic qualifications, giving students access to universities throughout the world.

Because we are a fully inclusive school, we offer pupils in Years 8-13 and alternative to the British curriculum and they have the choice to study and qualify within the Spanish system. In this way they can obtain the ESO and Bachillerato, with the opportunity to prepare for the highly demanding Selectividad exams as well.

We are very fortunate to have over 50 nationalities in our school community and this enables our students to experience other cultures and develop into global citizens in a more profound way than their multilingual abilities demonstrate.

In order to give access to our curriculum we provide individual pupil support and the Accelerated English Programme. This bespoke provision helps us to enable pupils to get better at learning so that they can all go on to achieve more than they dreamed possible.

The extra-curricular life of our school is exciting and dynamic, giving students the opportunity to take on roles of responsibility, as well as leading events and activities for other pupils and the wider community. Whether it is competitive sports or a desire to improve fitness, our sports programme and outstanding facilities on campus allow us to link with other students in the region and in other countries. From Danzart to international food events; singing to gymnastics; Young Investors to Literature quizzes. The pupils can all enjoy activities which will enrich their school lives.

Our aspiration at Laude San Pedro International College is that each child will achieve more than they dreamed possible, in a happy and inclusive environment where everyone is supported and encouraged to excel. We hope that you will share this vision for your children and that you will come and see us, to learn more about the bespoke curriculum we offer and the amazing opportunities our students enjoy.

Appointments for Open Days and personal visits can be made through our Head of Admissions, Mercedes Colmenar who will be delighted to hear from you.

Please call 952 799 900 or email admissions@laudesanpedro.com

Studying in the sun

A

S somebody who began his academic voyage in the bleak waters of the Romanian educational system, jumping ship from the equivalent of a sailing dinghy to a power boat may just have been the wisest decision that my parents ever made.

Since my pre-teen years I dreamed of being taught in English, having developed a strange liking for the language and culture.

But since my family felt intimidated by the ‘colourless way of British living’ (it was due to the weather, to be honest), our best bet was moving here to sunny Spain, well-regarded for its plethora of British schools.

And so, nearly five years ago, I began a new academic voyage of discovery at Benalmádena International College.

Graduating from the Romanian way of schooling that had shaped me thus far proved far easier than I thought.

The Brits took me in with a sullen glare and had me reshaped by lunchtime. I felt relieved to have been integrated into a fresher way of doing things so quickly.

Melting pot

But most importantly, choosing a British college on the Costa del Sol – mine is made up of 28 nationalities – was what really helped me fit in so easily.

Such a rich cultural melting pot - compared to the tighter constraints of a traditional British school, I’m told - fosters a warm, get-along atmosphere of appreciation and acceptance of differences.

It widens your horizons past whatever fears or insecurities once held you back from enjoying the freedom of expression an international school’s cosmopolitan climate can provide.

There were times when I felt intimidated by the change of pace. I was in Year 8 when I found out that school can be a relaxed, rewarding environment rather than a stress-inducing, mind-churning meat grinder, especially regarding intermediary exams.

Ditching the tortured logic that every bad grade will have a cataclysmic effect on your future was a true relief.

That said my teachers’ dedication and support also counts immensely, adding a more personal mentor-apprentice approach that has become a rarity in modern education.

Various teachers have inspired me through their own skills and work ethic, opening my eyes to wider academic vistas - such as maths actually having a sliver of importance.

Rather than alienating and ridiculing my difficulties, as is the norm in Romania, I was encouraged to rise to the challenge and overcome such barriers.

That was when everything started to add up.

Cameron International Primary School WE OFFER The best school to nurture your children’s abilities and fit your busy lives

• A community spirited environment to support and nurture your child’s individual development • A motivated team of educational experts and new campus with latest technologies • Daily nutritious meals • Open from 7.30am to 7.00pm with breakfast club, after school extra curricular activities and homework support • Health and life-skills programs • Bus service Bilingual, IPC & NABBS Certified Education for ages 3 to 14

REGISTRATION IS OPEN NOW!!

Call: 956 797 078 C.C. San Roque Club, San Roque www.cameroninternationalprimaryschool.com

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January 30th - February 12th 2019

A

ll about

Education

Challenging, nurturing and academic

S

otogrande International School (SIS) is a day and boarding school, which follows the IB programme from 3-18

years.

Home to a passionate learning community who inspire and encourage learning and intercultural understanding, promoting education as a force

CREATIVITY: A key skill

for good in the world.

With more than 980 children from over 44 countries, SIS provides a challenging, nurturing and academically rigorous international education.

Throughout the IB programmes teachers aim to combine academic excellence with extraordinary educational experiences.

As an Apple Distinguished School, technology is creatively embedded in the curriculum for all students from the age of three, while the F1 in Schools programme and the Hyperbaric Challenge provide an exciting way for students to learn Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) related subjects.

Academic results are consistently excellent, with both MYP and Diploma students achieving well above world average scores year after year.

2018 saw ten of our students receive an impressive 40+ points, with two achieving a perfect score of 45.

Since opening in 1980, Sotogrande International Boarding House has become home to intellectually adventurous students from all over the world.

The diverse student population, composed of 29 nationalities, live together in the recently refurbished Boarding House, which provides excellent accommodation in large, shared twin bedrooms, all climate controlled and with en-suite bathrooms and WiFi connection.

Boarders have access to a fantastic array of facilities which include an outdoor swimming pool, gym, music recording studio, tennis and basketball court, dance studio, student lounges, TV rooms and a library.

To meet the changing demands of everyday life we offer a variety of boarding options, from full boarding to weekday or flexi-boarding.

January 30th - February 12th 2019

And weekday boarding is increasingly popular among the 1000 lucky pupils at Sotogrande International School

VARIETY: From adventures to homely comforts at Sotogrande

Weekday Boarding

Our Weekday Boarding programme is particularly popular with students who live between Mรกlaga, Sevilla and Gibraltar.

Weekday boarders benefit from the boarding experience with supervised study time and activities on school days whilst also spending valuable time at home with family and friends on the weekends.

A transport service is available to collect boarders from along the Costa del Sol, Tarifa and Gibraltar on Monday mornings and take them home after school on Friday afternoons.

For more information about how Sotogrande International School can help your child reach their full potential contact admissions@sis. gl or visit our website www.sis.ac

BRAND NEW DAYCARE IN ATALAYA/ ESTEPONA Welcome to Joy Playschool Caring for and encouraging a New Generation At Joy Playschool we offer a harmonious and inspiring space for children to be happy

Providing Flexible Daycare, After School Club, Weekend Club and Holiday Camp We speak Spanish, English, Farsi and Swedish Call Us: +34 672 416 209 | +34 691 598 267 | info@joyplayschool.com Avenida Las Golondrinas | 57 Jardines de Atalaya | Estepona 29680 | Spain

www.joyplayschool.com

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January 30th - February 12th 2019

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January 30th - February 12th 2019

A

ll about

Education

January 30th - February 12th 2019

TEFL-ing terrific T

EACHING English as foreign language is a passport to the world - with fringe benefits.

You can spend time in different countries, earn a salary and get to know places from the inside out rather than as a tourist or a traveller.

If you’re already living in Spain, becoming a TEFL teacher is not only a fast-track to integration in the community but also extremely rewarding personally and professionally, allowing you to develop all sorts

How to choose the perfect TEFL course to take you teaching around the world

of transferable skills.

If TEFL-ing is a course you’re set on, a quick internet search throws up a wide range of ways to qualify, with online, classroom-based and combination courses that vary

massively in price, length and content. Which to choose?

Our five-point checklist will help you weigh up the options: price, official accreditation and professional recognition as well as the extent of teaching practice and the level of careers assistance.

Price – How much does it cost?

A course that costs €100 cannot - regardless of any claims on the website - offer the same as one costing €1,500. The cheaper versions tend to be online crash courses or even just a weekend, often described as TEFL taster courses or - as an honest and very reasonably-priced course puts it ‘an ideal solution ... in preparation for a TEFL

Try Teaching English

T

For more information: www.activelanguage.net e-mail: training@activelanguage.net phone: 956 22 14 26

HE recent boom in private language schools offering English language tuition both on the coast and inland has meant the consequent increase in demand for English teachers. This means that more and more expats living in the area are finding the opportunity of either starting off on a new career or simply obtaining an additional source of income.

Can just anybody get a job in a language school? Surprisingly there are no legally required qualifications to work as an English teacher here in Spain, which has logically led to a lot of shady language schools being run without offering a quality teaching service. Those looking for work in the sector can start by checking out schools belonging to ACEIA, the Association of Andalusian Language Schools, whose website www.aceia.es has a list of members.

If you have little, or no, previous teaching experience or wish to re-cycle, it would be a good idea, and a very rewarding experience, to take a Cambridge CELTA teacher training course.

Employers around the world, not just in Spain, ask for CELTA - an internationally recognized TEFL qualification which will provide you with the skills necessary to teach in the classroom as well as hands-on experience. A CELTA certificate is regulated by Ofqual at level 5 on the Qualifications and Credit Framework.

A Teaching Qualification does not automatically lead to employment, but it certainly gives you a head start over other people applying for work or setting up on their own in what is currently a thriving business here in Spain.

course or course interview’. However some such courses masquerade as the ‘full Monty’ and might well fail to deliver. Does that mean that an expensive course is necessarily better than a cheap one? Not necessarily, but taken together with other criteria, price is a good yardstick.

Accreditation – Who says this is a good course?

There seem to be number of accrediting bodies these days. How can you tell one from another?

A good place to start is Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulator) which together with the QCA (Qualifications and Curriculum Authority) is responsible for overseeing these courses. If the course you're looking at doesn't clearly state its accreditation, then ask. It might not be clear on the website but if you're not satisfied with the answer, treat with caution.

Recognition – Is the course well-known and well respected by the profession?

While British Council recognition is a good benchmark for courses around the world, the profession is somewhat fragmented internationally and there are significant differences between countries. For example, in Andalucia members of the national association of language schools (FECEI.org) and its regional equivalent (aceia. es) much prefer teachers with a Trinity Certificate in TESOL or a CELTA course qualification.

Careers assistance – How much help do you get in finding the work you want afterwards?

Nearly everybody approaches their TEFL course focused on the job prospects at the end. Some of the cheaper courses will provide you with work after your course but is it where you want to go and the sort of job you want? There may well be reasons why other teachers would prefer not to do these jobs.

What might seem like the perfect introduction to the profession may well turn out to be the opposite. A good course should also offer careers guidance, assistance in writing your new CV and ongoing support reflecting the investment you’re making in terms of time, effort and money. Some top courses offer life-long careers support.

If you are thinking about TEFL as the gateway to a year of adventure, go for it, it may well be the perfect course for you. But be aware you may need to take a better-recognised course when you move on elsewhere.

Your TEFL course is your first step into a profession that offers you almost everything under the sun, literally! Make sure your first experience is the one you want.

Have a look at our website activelanguage. net for more information or call Simon on 956221426. We’re taking enrollments for courses all-year round.

Looking for a NEW CAREER PATH? Get TEFL QUALIFIED in Malaga and TEACH ENGLISH in SPAIN or WORLDWIDE! Full and part-time courses available (4, 5, 6 & 8-week) accredited by TRINITY COLLEGE LONDON. including a FREE CAREERS SERVICE

TEACHER DEVELOPMENT | TEFL REFRESHER COURSE

Contact us now: 951 956 784 / 656 931 239 info@tefl-in-spain.com www.tefl-in-spain.com

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January 30th - February 12th 2019

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January 30th - February 12th 2019 MORE students than ever before are participating in the Erasmus+ scheme, new figures have revealed.

The EU invested a record €2.6 billion in the programme in 2017 - which saw a hike of 13% compared to 2016 - offering more opportunities for young people than ever before, revealed the EU Commission.

The university scheme offers students grants and connections for students to study, volunteer, work, or train abroad for a year as part of their degree.

In 2017, Erasmus+ provided support for

Four top tips to step up your Spanish this year

L

EARNING a language is hard.

Luckily for us living here in Spain, Spanish is one of the easier languages to pick up.

But we are all busy and despite having the best of intentions it can be difficult to find the time to learn and improve.

Below we have rounded up four top tips which will let you learn the lingo that much faster.

Be opportunistic Try to take advantages of opportunities to speak Spanish whenever you can.

Chat to the locals in the bus queue, in shops and in the street.

Look up local conversation classes or ‘intercambios’, where groups of English and Spanish meet for a copa or caña to practice each other’s languages.

You should also try living with a Spanish speaker which will force you to speak the lingo on a daily basis and will naturally improve your vocabulary.

Learning curve Dedicate time to learning Putting money towards lessons can really help you prioritise your learning and is especially helpful if you’re just starting out.

Learning in a group can be a really fun way to learn.

If you can’t afford lessons, make a weekly timetable and set aside

Education centre Spanish lessons for foreigners (children & adults) Help to guide your children and prepare them for their exams

Olga Ruiz Aulacuarentaysiete@gmail.com C/Espinosa ,1D-Planta 1 29692, Sabinillas Tel: 655 078 187 www.aula47.com Follow Us

Anuncio CELTA Sev&Mal_enero 2019_impr.pdf 1 24/01/2019 11:21:45

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at least four hours a week to learning.

Make sure you nail the basics and try to set yourself daily targets of X amount of new words.

Make it your routine Try to incorporate Spanish into your everyday routine.

This means playing a language app like Duolingo everyday, listening to Spanish music and/or radio and watching your Netflix or TV with Spanish subtitles.

Pick out the odd word and translate it and add it to a vocab list either on your phone or in a notepad.

Practice makes perfect Don’t underestimate how important it is to practice constantly and consistently.

Throw yourself out there and speak to the bus driver, hairdresser, shopkeeper or anyone who will lend an ear. If you’re not in a Spanish speaking country, then repeat phrases in front of the mirror, to family and friends or even your dog— basically anyone who will listen! Don’t be scared, the more you practice the more confident you become.

On the up

800,000 young people and funded cooperation between education institutions, youth organisations and businesses.

Since 1987, the EU organisation has been offering young people opportunities to gain new experiences by living in foreign European countries.

Currently 33 countries take part, including all 28 EU Member States, as well as Turkey, Macedonia, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

Thinking of a Career Teaching English?

FULL TIME CELTA IN JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA (CÁDIZ)

4 week course from 1st to 26th July 2019 1,450 Euros A Cambridge CELTA teaching qualification provides you with the skills required to teach English around the world JEREZ – What better place to study and relax this summer?

CELTA in Jerez c/Caracuel, 15, 11402 Jerez de la Frontera Tel: 956 324 707 e-mail: info@tenidiomas.com www.celtacadiz.com TENIDIOMAS – Cambridge Assessment English Teaching Qualifications and Platinum Examinations Centre ES391

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CALPE SCHOOL

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January 30th - February 12th 2019

BRITISH NATIONAL CURRICULUM

SPECIALISTS IN PRIMARY EDUCATION 18 MONTHS - 10 YEARS DEDICATED TO LEARNING

DISCOVERING EDUCATION IN A CARING AND PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENT FULFILLING OUR SCHOOL MOTTO OF “HAPPY TO LEARN” WWW.CALPESCHOOL.COM

TEL: 952 786 029

INFO@CALPESCHOOL.COM

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