A New Academic Year on the Costa Blanca: More than just a return to the classroom

As the long, sun-soaked days of summer fade, a different kind of buzz fills the air along Spain’s stunning Costa Blanca. While tourists pack their bags, local families prepare for the start of the new school year, which brings both excitement and a little chaos. “Back to school” on the Costa Blanca is an unforgettable experience that combines Spanish tradition with the region’s vibrant international community.

School Life in the Valencian Community

The Costa Blanca, which is part of the Valencian Community, follows a school calendar established by the regional Ministry of Education, as is the case throughout Spain. This means that, while there are national holidays, each community has its own set of term dates and local holidays, which add to the school year’s regional character.

Most students in early childhood, primary, and secondary education will start school in early to mid-September. The school year typically lasts until mid-to-late June, with a lengthy Christmas break and a week or two off for Easter. These holidays often coincide with the traditional ‘fiesta’ calendar, allowing families to fully immerse themselves in the local celebrations.

A Diverse Educational Landscape

The Costa Blanca’s popularity among expatriates has resulted in a diverse educational landscape. Parents have several options for their children’s education, each with its own benefits:

• Public schools provide free education to children as young as three years old and are an excellent way for them to integrate into Spanish life and become fluent in both Spanish and Valencian, the regional language. Enrolment is determined by residential address, with some differences in curriculum and hours between municipalities.
• International Schools: For many expat families, international schools are the best option. These private, fee-paying institutions frequently use a curriculum from another country, such as the British or American systems, and teach in English or a foreign language. They are especially popular among families who intend to return to their home country or want their children to continue their education in a particular system.

More than Just Books and Pens

The return to school is a significant economic event. Recent studies show that Spanish families spend a significant amount of money on school supplies, uniforms, and textbooks. The cost of a “digital return” is also rising, as the demand for devices such as e-readers grows, adding to the financial burden.

Local governments, such as the city council in Benidorm, are often proactive in providing assistance. To help reduce costs and promote sustainability, they may offer school transport subsidies or invest in infrastructure improvements, such as solar panels installed on school rooftops.

As students return to the classroom, the Costa Blanca continues to provide an environment in which academic life is intertwined with the region’s cultural heritage. The sound of school bells blends with the last echoes of summer, signalling the start of a new chapter for the many families who call this beautiful stretch of coast home.

Author: Melissa Williams

Hi, I’m Melissa, a creative writer and ESL teacher with a passion for storytelling. I started writing fiction when I was young, and I eventually discovered that I loved performing, working all over the Costa Blanca as a semi-professional singer. I now write articles that I hope will inspire and engage readers by using my creativity. Whether I'm sharing personal insights or delving into local culture, I try to produce content that is relatable and meaningful. working as a creator of events and features.