If you are planning to register your children for school in Andalusia, you should be aware that the process, the same for public (Público) or charter schools (Concertado), involves several steps. In this guide, we will take you through the enrollment process. Check our previous post if you need to understand how the Spanish education system works
Key Steps to Register Your Children at School in Andalusia:
- Research Schools: Start by researching schools in the catchment area where your home is located. Consider factors such as the curriculum, proximity to your home, language of instruction, and extracurricular activities. The regional government of Andalusia provides resources and tools on its website to help parents identify schools and understand their offerings.
- Visit the schools you’ll put on your list: Most schools allow parents to visit during an open day in February. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and get a feel for the school environment. If you’re too far away for that, ask a local in the know.
- Understand the Registration Period: The application period typically takes place in March (for primary and secondary schools) for the upcoming school year. It’s crucial to be aware of the exact dates, as late applications may only be considered if there are available spots.
- Gather Required Documents and fill out the application forms: You will need to gather several documents for the registration process. These usually include:
- Children’s birth certificate, translated into Spanish.
- Children’s ID copy.
- Parents’ passport copy.
- Proof of residence in the city (Padron or rental agreement)
5. Submit the Application: Applications can be submitted online through the official Andalusian educational portal if you have a Spanish digital signature or otherwise directly at the school you listed first on your application. The education department recommends putting down a list of five school options.
6. Wait for Confirmation: After submitting your application, there will be a waiting period while applications are processed. By mid-May, schools will then publish the list of accepted children.
7. Finalize Enrollment: Once accepted, you’ll need to finalize the enrollment by submitting any additional documentation requested by the school. It will be in June for primary education and in July for secondary education. You’ll be asked about any health issues (allergies), to sign authorization documents (for the school to use your children’s image on their social media, to take your children on field trips or to the emergency room), and to choose between a weekly class of religion or ethics values.
Conclusion: Registering your children in state or charter schools in Andalusia requires careful planning and attention to detail. By understanding the educational system, preparing the necessary documents, and choosing the right school for your child, you can ensure a smooth transition to their new educational environment
Remember, the key to a successful registration process is starting early and staying informed. Ask “Your Year in Spain” about their “Education package” to help you at each stage of the process.
