Yes, education in Spain is free and compulsory for all children from age 6 to 16. The Spanish education system is publicly funded and operated by the state, which means that all children, including foreign nationals, are entitled to free education in state-run schools.

In Spain, there are three types of state-run schools:

1. “Colegios Públicos” (public schools) which are funded and managed by local and regional governments.
2. “Institutos de Educación Secundaria” (secondary schools) which provide education for students from age 12 to 18.
3. “Escuelas Oficiales de Idiomas” (official language schools) which provide language education to students of all ages.

The Spanish education system provides a comprehensive education that includes a wide range of subjects, such as language, mathematics, social studies, natural sciences, physical education, music, and art. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for life and work, and to promote critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility.

It’s important to note that while education is free in Spain, there may be additional costs associated with attending school, such as transportation or school materials. However, these costs are generally low compared to tuition fees in other countries, and the Spanish government provides financial assistance to families who may have difficulty covering these expenses.

Here are some examples of state-run schools in Spain:

1. Colegio Público de Educación Infantil y Primaria (CEIP) – This is a primary school for children from age 6 to 12. Students attend CEIP for six years and learn a variety of subjects, including Spanish, mathematics, social studies, and physical education.
2. Instituto de Educación Secundaria (IES) – This is a secondary school for students from age 12 to 16 or 18. IES provides a general education and prepares students for vocational training or further education.
3. Escuela Oficial de Idiomas (EOI) – This is a language school that provides instruction in a variety of languages, including English, French, German, and Italian. EOI offers courses for students of all ages and levels, from beginner to advanced.
4. Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería (ETSI) – This is a technical school that offers courses in engineering, technology, and science. ETSI prepares students for careers in these fields and provides them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
5. Instituto Nacional de Educación Física (INEF) – This is a physical education school that trains students to become physical education teachers. INEF provides students with a rigorous education in anatomy, physiology, and sports science, as well as practical training in sports and fitness.

These are just a few examples of the many state-run schools in Spain. The Spanish education system provides a comprehensive education that meets the needs of students from all backgrounds and prepares them for success in life.

Private schools

In Spain, private schools are schools that are not funded by the government and charge tuition fees for attendance. Private schools in Spain are known for providing high-quality education and specialized programs, and they often offer smaller class sizes and more individualized attention than state-run schools. Here are some examples of private schools in Spain:

1. International schools – These schools offer an international curriculum and often provide instruction in English or other foreign languages. They cater to students from around the world and may follow an American, British, or other international curriculum.
2. Bilingual schools – These schools provide instruction in both Spanish and English, and often follow a curriculum that emphasizes language learning and cultural exchange.
3. Montessori schools – These schools follow the educational philosophy of Maria Montessori, which emphasizes hands-on learning and individualized instruction. Montessori schools focus on self-directed learning and provide students with a wide range of materials and activities to explore.
4. Religious schools – These are schools run by religious organizations, such as Catholic or Jewish groups, and often follow a religious curriculum.
5. Boarding schools – These schools provide full-time residence for students and offer a structured, supportive environment for learning and personal growth.

It’s worth noting that tuition fees for private schools in Spain can be quite high compared to state-run schools, and admission can be competitive. However, private schools in Spain are also known for providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in life.