​​Pre-schools (Guarderías)

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Pre-schools are divided into two age groups: 0-3 years and 3-6 years. Attendance is not mandatory. There are three types of preschools:

• Public (Escuelas Infantiles Públicas): Free or low cost

• Private (Escuelas Infantiles Privadas): Higher fees

• Semi-public (Escuelas Infantiles Concertadas): Privately run but partially funded by the State

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To apply for a place in a public or semi-public preschool, you need to submit an application to the local institution of education (Consejería de Educación) or directly to the chosen preschool. Documents required include:

• Child's birth certificate

• Child's vaccination record

• Child's parent's proof of residence (El Padron)

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School Education

 

Schooling is mandatory between the ages of 6 and 16, and it is free of charge. To enroll, you must provide the following documents:

• Child's passport or birth certificate

• Child's vaccination record

• Child's parent's proof of residence (El Padron)

• Parent’s NIE (NIE – Numero de Identidad de Extranjero; Foreigner Identification Number), issued by Spanish police or Spanish embassy (consulate)

 

Enrollment requests for public schools are usually accepted in February and March. Applications should be completed on the local municipality’s (ayuntamiento) website.