Aloha College Marbella vs Swans International School - Primary Campus

	A Aloha College Marbella Malaga, Spain	S Swans International School - Primary Campus Malaga, Spain
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €4,825 - 18,940	Fees / year €8,750 - 20,500
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 11 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)	Curriculum British Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)
Pupils	Pupils 840	Pupils 800
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 12
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Spanish
Opened	Opened 1982	Opened 1971
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Urb. El Angel, Nueva Andalucia, 29660 Marbella, Málaga, Spain. The campus is in Urbanización El Ángel, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella.	Location Marbella, Málaga, Spain. Primary Campus: El Capricho s/n, Marbella 29602. Secondary Campus: Lago de los Cisnes, s/n, Marbella 29602.
Stages	Stages Early Years (Nursery & Reception, ages 3–4); Primary (Key Stage 1 & Key Stage 2, ages 5–10); Secondary (Key Stage 3 & Key Stage 4, ages 11–15); Sixth Form (IB Diploma & A-Levels, ages 16–18).	Stages Foundation Stage for ages 3-5; Primary School for ages 5-11; Secondary School for ages 11-16; Sixth Form for ages 16-18. GCSE/IGCSE are offered in Years 10-11 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is offered in the Sixth Form.
School type	School type International school	School type International school following the British curriculum with GCSE/IGCSE in Years 10-11 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in the Sixth Form.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix More than fifty nationalities represented.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support SEN is supported within the mainstream classroom; families must provide full written documentation of any known SEN at registration.	Additional learning support Learning Support is available; a dedicated Learning Support team identifies and provides linguistic or academic support for new students and those with additional needs.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation British international education (UK curriculum elements such as English National Curriculum and IPC).	Country affiliation Spain
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure Primary day runs 9:00–15:40 (with supervision from 8:30 and until 16:00); Secondary day runs 9:00–16:00.	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details Yes. Supervised bus routes from Fuengirola and Estepona.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Admissions Prepayments - Application fee (non‑refundable): EUR 200, payable on submission of the application. - Reservation (firm offer) fee: EUR 2,500, payable on acceptance of a firm offer and deducted from the first invoice. - Waiting list holding fee: EUR 1,250 — refundable only if a place is not offered; once a firm place is offered this becomes part of the reservation fee and non‑refundable. - Administration fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): EUR 195, payable with the first invoice. - Inscription (enrolment) fee for new pupils / re‑enrolment after an absence (one‑time, non‑refundable): 1st child EUR 3,000; 2nd child EUR 2,250; 3rd child EUR 1,800. - Chromebook (required for all students joining Secondary): EUR 599, payable with the first invoice; the device is supplied and configured by the school and is assigned to the pupil. Tuition fees — Primary (per term and annual total) Invoices and payments are issued termly. Payment due dates shown in the schedule are: 1st Term due by 15/06/2025; 2nd Term due by 01/12/2025; 3rd Term due by 02/03/2026. (Below each line shows the three term amounts followed by the calculated annual total.) - Nursery (Half Day): 1st Term EUR 1,925; 2nd Term EUR 1,450; 3rd Term EUR 1,450. Annual total: EUR 4,825. - Nursery (Full): 1st Term EUR 3,115; 2nd Term EUR 2,345; 3rd Term EUR 2,345. Annual total: EUR 7,805. - Reception: 1st Term EUR 3,495; 2nd Term EUR 2,620; 3rd Term EUR 2,620. Annual total: EUR 8,735. - Year 1: 1st Term EUR 3,805; 2nd Term EUR 2,850; 3rd Term EUR 2,850. Annual total: EUR 9,505. - Year 2: 1st Term EUR 3,895; 2nd Term EUR 2,930; 3rd Term EUR 2,930. Annual total: EUR 9,755. - Year 3: 1st Term EUR 4,240; 2nd Term EUR 3,180; 3rd Term EUR 3,180. Annual total: EUR 10,600. - Year 4: 1st Term EUR 4,345; 2nd Term EUR 3,265; 3rd Term EUR 3,265. Annual total: EUR 10,875. - Year 5: 1st Term EUR 4,575; 2nd Term EUR 3,440; 3rd Term EUR 3,440. Annual total: EUR 11,455. - Year 6: 1st Term EUR 4,630; 2nd Term EUR 3,470; 3rd Term EUR 3,470. Annual total: EUR 11,570. Tuition fees — Secondary (per term / invoice and annual total) Invoices and payments are made termly for Years 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12; Years 11 and 13 are invoiced twice a year. Payment due dates shown in the schedule are: 1st Term / 1st Invoice due by 15/06/2025; 2nd Term due by 01/12/2025; 3rd Term due by 02/03/2026; second invoice for Year 11/13 due by 05/01/2026. (Below each line shows the invoice/term amounts followed by the calculated annual total.) - Year 7: 1st Term EUR 5,290; 2nd Term EUR 3,975; 3rd Term EUR 3,975. Annual total: EUR 13,240. - Year 8: 1st Term EUR 5,430; 2nd Term EUR 4,075; 3rd Term EUR 4,075. Annual total: EUR 13,580. - Year 9: 1st Term EUR 5,520; 2nd Term EUR 4,140; 3rd Term EUR 4,140. Annual total: EUR 13,800. - Year 10: 1st Term EUR 5,980; 2nd Term EUR 4,495; 3rd Term EUR 4,495. Annual total: EUR 14,970. - Year 12: 1st Term EUR 7,495; 2nd Term EUR 5,630; 3rd Term EUR 5,630. Annual total: EUR 18,755. - Year 11: 1st Invoice EUR 7,640; 2nd Invoice EUR 7,640. Annual total: EUR 15,280. - Year 13: 1st Invoice EUR 9,470; 2nd Invoice EUR 9,470. Annual total: EUR 18,940. Optional services and recurring extras - School lunch (Primary): Nursery–Year 2 — 1st Term EUR 615; 2nd Term EUR 450; 3rd Term EUR 440. Years 3–6 — 1st Term EUR 650; 2nd Term EUR 480; 3rd Term EUR 470. - School lunch (Secondary): Year 7–10 & 12 — 1st Term EUR 650; 2nd Term EUR 480; 3rd Term EUR 470. Year 11 — 1st Invoice EUR 795; 2nd Invoice EUR 795. Year 13 — 1st Invoice EUR 700; 2nd Invoice EUR 700. - School bus (priced by geographical zone): for Years 7–10 & 12 the per‑term amounts are: Zone A EUR 480 / EUR 350 / EUR 350; Zone B EUR 605 / EUR 445 / EUR 445; Zone C EUR 685 / EUR 505 / EUR 505; Zone D EUR 760 / EUR 560 / EUR 560. Bus charges for Years 11 and 13 are invoiced per the two‑invoice schedule with amounts varying by zone (see the invoice schedule). - Chromebook: Secondary students EUR 599 (one‑off, payable with first invoice). - The tuition and optional service fees listed include accident insurance, textbooks and exercise books, subject materials and all compulsory curricular day trips and enrichment events unless otherwise noted. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices are issued according to the term/ invoice schedule shown above (1st term/invoice in mid‑June; further invoices in December, March or early January for two‑invoice year groups). - For Years 7–10 and 12 invoicing is termly; Years 11 and 13 are invoiced twice a year. - A surcharge of 5% is imposed on fees not fully paid by the due date stated on the invoice. - Inscription, administration and Chromebook charges are payable with the first invoice or as stated in the enrolment prepayment terms. Boarding - Aloha College Marbella operates as a day school; boarding is not provided. Refunds and non‑refundable items - Application fee (EUR 200): non‑refundable. - Reservation fee (EUR 2,500): non‑refundable once a firm offer is accepted (the reservation fee is deducted from the first invoice). - Waiting list holding fee (EUR 1,250): refundable only if a place is not subsequently offered; once a firm place is offered it becomes part of the reservation fee and is non‑refundable. - Administration fee and inscription fee: one‑time and non‑refundable, payable with the first invoice. - Other refund entitlements for tuition after a pupil has started are governed by the school's enrolment and payment terms (specific conditions such as refunds on withdrawal or term‑time changes are set out in the school's policy documents). A 5% late payment surcharge applies for late settlement. Fee payment notes and options - Fees are invoiced in EUR according to the billing schedule above; invoices must be settled by the due dates shown. - The published fee documents present the invoicing schedule, fee amounts and the late‑payment surcharge. For the available payment channels (for example bank transfer, card payment via the parent portal or other methods) families should use the school's invoicing and parent‑portal arrangements when settling invoices. Other practical costs - Uniform: the school operates a second‑hand uniform shop and maintains uniform guidance; costs for new uniform items are not listed in the fee schedule and vary by item and supplier. - External optional activities (some trips, examinations, external providers or certain co‑curricular items) may carry separate charges where explicitly stated. - The fee documents include details of compulsory items (textbooks, subject materials) in the fee inclusions; additional discretionary costs (private tuition, optional external programmes, non‑compulsory trips) are billed separately where applicable.	Fee details Application & Entrance Fees - Entrance (non-returnable) fee by stage: EUR 1,975 (Foundation Stage), EUR 2,975 (Year 1–Year 6), EUR 3,975 (Year 7–Year 13). - Refundable deposit on acceptance: EUR 1,000. The deposit will be refunded in June provided the School receives written notice of withdrawal at least one full term in advance by the published deadlines; the deposit is forfeited if a place is accepted but not taken up. Tuition fees by year group (per year / per term) - The school does not publish a full, detailed tuition table by year group and per term in its public materials; published third‑party listings report annual day‑student fee ranges rather than a complete per‑year, per‑term schedule. Reported annual fee ranges vary by source and by year group, with typical estimates for the current academic year falling approximately in these bands: Primary/early years roughly EUR 6,500–11,000 per year; Secondary (up to IGCSE) roughly EUR 8,700–16,000 per year; Sixth Form / older students reported at the higher end up to around EUR 20,000–21,000 per year. These figures are reported as annual day fees and are presented as ranges rather than a published per‑year fee table. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition and other school fees are payable in advance and must be paid no later than the end of the first week of each term. A surcharge applies to any fees unpaid by the end of the first week of term. Parents who expect difficulty must meet the School's Managing Director before term begins to agree alternative arrangements. A full term's written notice is required to withdraw a pupil; specific notice deadlines for deposit‑refund consideration are 1st September (Autumn term), 20th December (Spring term) and 30th March (Summer term). Boarding fees - Swans International School operates as a day school; boarding provision is not applicable and no boarding fees are published. Other costs and mandatory extras - Uniform: Parents are responsible for providing and maintaining the full school uniform for the academic year. The school operates an on‑site uniform shop with published opening hours. Costs for uniform items are not published in the public uniform policy. - Stationery and materials: Parents must supply specified stationery and equipment by year group; stationery is available at the school stationery shop. Specific prices for stationery packs are not published in the terms and conditions. - School meals: The school provides freshly prepared, home‑cooked meals daily; meal provision is described but individual meal prices or charging arrangements are not publicly listed. - Additional support and specialist provision: If a pupil requires additional tuition or placement in a smaller support group, this provision is chargeable to parents at the current private tuition rate (or at a reduced support‑group rate where applicable) and must be paid in advance. Other ancillary costs that may be charged include specialist assessments, optional trips, examination fees and ad‑hoc activity costs, where applicable; specific charges for these items are not published in the publicly available terms. Refunds and cancellation - Fees are non‑refundable for absence during term and are not reduced except in exceptional circumstances at the School's sole discretion. The refundable deposit is returned in June if written notice of withdrawal is given at least one full term in advance by the published deadlines; the deposit is forfeited if a place is accepted but not taken up. A surcharge is applied for late payment. Fee payment options - The School's public terms and quick‑link pages do not list specific payment methods (credit card, bank transfer, direct debit) in the published materials. Payment method details and a full, itemised fee schedule are provided in the School's admissions/fee documentation rather than in the public terms; therefore specific accepted payment methods are not available in the public materials reviewed here.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The school has a uniform. A second-hand uniform shop is run by the Aloha Parents Society.	Uniform requirement Swans School requires all students to wear a uniform. Marbella's climate means the Summer Uniform is worn most of the year, with a Winter Uniform introduced after the Autumn Half Term; Primary pupils wear navy shorts or trousers, a pinafore dress or summer dress, a yellow polo shirt with the logo, and a navy jumper, while Year 6 adds blazer, tie, jumper, white shirt and navy trousers or skirt. Secondary Winter Uniform includes a blazer with jumper, a white shirt and Swans tie with navy trousers or skirt; Summer Uniform uses a white shirt and tie with the blazer not compulsory, and Sixth Form dresses in smart attire rather than a standard uniform, with formal dress required for formal events.
Food options	Food options On-site catering provides nutritious meals prepared daily by the in-house team. Dietary requirements are fully accommodated, with vegetarian, gluten-free and lactose-free options. From Monday to Friday, hot lunches and healthy break-time snacks are provided. Two dining spaces serve over 1000 individuals daily, and the School Food Committee involves students in shaping menus.	Food options Swans provides freshly prepared, home-cooked meals every day for students and staff, prepared in-house with fresh ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Frozen or pre-packaged options are avoided. Every two weeks, international dishes are added to the menu, inspired by Student Council suggestions.
House system	House system Pupils are grouped into Houses and earn House points across school life. A House points system recognises student contributions, with annual or termly House winners (e.g., Wolves).	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Fundación Aloha College is a not-for-profit foundation governed by a Board of Trustees. The Board includes parent Governors and sets the long-term vision, with the Foundation supervised by the Protectorado de la Junta de Andalucía and compliance with Law 50/2002.	Governance and ownership —
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school offers a British international education for students aged 3 to 18. From Early Years to Year 6, the English National Curriculum is followed with the International Primary Curriculum. In Years 10–11, students prepare for IGCSEs. In Sixth Form (Years 12–13), they can choose between the International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma) or the International A-Level programme.	Curriculum details Swans follows the British curriculum alongside the Spanish ESO Curriculum, structured into distinct educational stages. Foundation Stage covers ages 3-5 (Early Years and Reception). Primary Education covers ages 5-11. Secondary Education covers ages 11-18, with the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exams in Years 10-11. Sixth Form covers ages 16-18, preparing students for higher education with the International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations. The Spanish ESO Curriculum includes specialised Social Sciences and Spanish Languages and Literature for both Primary and Secondary Education.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Average class size: Years 7–11, 16 pupils; Years 12–13, 10 pupils.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results 2024 Exam Results: the school achieved a 100% pass rate across IB, A-Level and IGCSE examinations. In the IB programme, the average score was 35.56 points, with nine students exceeding 40. In A-Level, 31% of examinations were awarded A* to A, with a 100% pass rate. In IGCSE, 93% of examinations were graded 4–9, with 46% achieving 7–9, and all early-entry Spanish candidates earning top grades (8–9). 2025 Exam Results: published with continued strong achievements.	Exam results The Swans IB and IGCSE Class of 2025 achieved remarkable results. The IB cohort posted a 100% pass rate, with eight students scoring over 40 points and one achieving a perfect 45. IB scores of 38+ roughly equate to AAA at A Level, and 45 points roughly equate to 4 A*s. Graduates have secured places at top universities worldwide, including LSE, ESADE, Cambridge, Imperial, and University College Utrecht.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression 96% of the 2024 cohort progressed to their first-choice universities. 17 graduates pursued UK universities including Oxford, Manchester, Edinburgh and Bristol. About 69% studied abroad in the US, Canada, Europe and beyond. 77% chose Arts and Humanities degrees and 23% pursued STEM fields.	Higher education progression Graduates have secured places at top universities worldwide, including LSE, ESADE, Cambridge, Imperial, and University College Utrecht.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented Enrichment activities are available beyond the standard curriculum, including Arts, Music and Theatre and sports. The school offers the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award since 2013, and enrichment opportunities such as the Debate Club, Student Council and various charity initiatives.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning PSHEE supports students from Year 1 to Year 13, equipping them with knowledge, understanding and life skills to lead healthy, happy lives and to become confident, responsible global citizens. The programme is tailored to reflect the needs of our students, the ethos of the school and the context of our international community. It is delivered by a dedicated team of trained staff. Lessons are supported by the Emotional Intelligence (EQ) programme, which nurtures resilience, empathy, focus and mindfulness. Through a spiral curriculum, students develop emotional literacy, self-esteem, healthy relationships, decision-making, risk awareness, financial understanding, personal responsibility and resilience, with regular parent workshops.	Social & emotional learning The school has two campuses in Marbella, Spain: Swans School Primary at El Capricho, Marbella, and Swans School Secondary at Lago de los Cisnes, Marbella. A brand new, purpose-built secondary facility was constructed in Sierra Blanca for Years 6–13 in 2006. The school educates children of more than fifty nationalities, and many teachers have been with the school for over a decade.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Aloha College Marbella identifies and supports students with SEND through an early identification approach across both Primary and Secondary. Learning support is embedded across all teaching, with a whole-school approach and SEND coordinators who work closely with parents and the student to remove barriers to learning. A four-part cycle—Assess, Plan, Do, Review—drives the development and review of support, with Learning Plans and Individual Education Plans and regular progress discussions. Where appropriate, external professionals such as Educational Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists or medical professionals may be involved, with cooperation from parents. English as an additional language is addressed within the SEND framework; lack of English competence alone is not treated as SEND, and where ESL progress is slow other educational needs are considered; the school may advise external provision if needed.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school provides a broad academic program across its Foundation Stage, Primary, Secondary, and Sixth Form, with dedicated staff and provision supporting diverse learners.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English is the language of instruction; non-native English speakers must provide evidence of their English level as part of the application. Spanish is taught as a second language. English as an additional language is recognised within the SEND framework; lack of English competence should not be equated with learning difficulties, and when ESL progress is slow other educational needs are considered; language support is planned as part of the student's overall education.	English as an additional language The content indicates a bilingual and international environment across the campuses, with English as the primary medium of instruction in the secondary and sixth-form offerings.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Pastoral care at ACM is a recognised area of excellence with Beacon Status from COBIS. Every student is valued and pastoral support is tailored to meet each child's needs, with the aim of equipping them to thrive in and beyond the classroom. The approach emphasises emotional security, empathy, resilience and a positive sense of self as essential to sustaining mental health. Students are supported to become confident, autonomous and socially responsible members of a diverse, compassionate community, with strong collaboration between staff and families. The Medical Centre is staffed by a full-time on-site nurse, and the school works with local doctors and paramedics for more serious concerns.	Mental wellbeing The school emphasizes a supportive and inviting environment as part of its learning experience, including social-emotional care within its enrichment and pastoral programs.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The Admissions Policy includes safeguarding procedures, with the safeguarding lead responsible for requesting information from a pupil's previous school to check for safeguarding issues. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, with open collaboration between families and staff to maintain a safe school community. The on-site medical and pastoral provisions support safeguarding in daily practice.	Safeguarding The school operates an open-door policy and offers a structured program for safety and well-being, aligned with its long-standing educational mission.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Campus spans 29,000 m², with 17,500 m² dedicated to state-of-the-art buildings. Each classroom averages 55 m². Six Science Laboratories and three Computer Labs support practical learning, with dedicated Sixth Form study areas. A three-floor Multimedia Space houses the Secondary Library, the Literature and Chess clubs, and hosts regular talks. Dining services provide nutritious meals in two dining spaces for over 1,000 people daily, with an outdoor dining area refurbished in 2024. IT and technology are integrated with Google Classroom and interactive smartboards in every classroom.	Facilities overview Swans operates across two Marbella sites: Swans School Primary on El Capricho and Swans School Secondary on Lago de los Cisnes. The Primary site uses the original villas as part of its facilities, while a brand-new, purpose-built campus in Sierra Blanca has housed Years 6–13 since 2006. Across the two sites, Swans educates children of more than fifty nationalities. Foundation Stage covers ages 3–5, Primary 5–11, Secondary 11–16, and Sixth Form 16–18. GCSEs are taken in Years 10–11 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma is offered in the Sixth Form.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities FIFA-certified Football Pitch: 2,650 m² artificial turf field. Outdoor Gym and Recreational Areas. Multipurpose Sports Pavilion includes a rooftop court, gym, and a fully equipped stage for cultural events.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Six Science Laboratories; Three Computer Labs with access to over 1,300 devices (including 250 PCs, 700 Chromebooks, and 160 iPads). Dedicated Sixth Form Study Areas. Three-Floor Multimedia Space housing the Secondary Library, Literature and Chess clubs, and regular talks. IT & Technology integrated throughout with Google Classroom and interactive smartboards in every classroom.	Academic facilities Swans International School follows the British primary and secondary curriculum, with GCSEs in Years 10–11 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma in the Sixth Form. The curriculum emphasises English fluency and a strong focus on maths, science and computer programming.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Drama Club stages high-caliber theatrical productions each year. Literature and Chess clubs, and regular talks hosted in the Secondary Library.	Extra curricular facilities The enrichment program teaches life skills and provides character-building experiences outside the standard academic curriculum.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Founded in 1982 by six visionary teachers and a group of parents as a not-for-profit initiative, Aloha College Marbella has grown into a leading international school. The school was among the first in Spain to offer the International Baccalaureate, and in 2004 a new Secondary School building doubled its capacity. What started as a small school with 210 students has grown to over 900 students on a 27,000 m² campus. The campus includes seven science laboratories, three computer suites, two libraries, four art studios, and a dedicated Music Department with a performance hall and drama studio. Not-for-profit status means every surplus is reinvested into the school, enhancing facilities, integrating technologies, and supporting staff development, while maintaining a caring, inclusive atmosphere.	History Swans first opened its doors to the local community in 1971. The original villas are now part of a modern primary school facility, while a brand-new, purpose-built school was constructed in Sierra Blanca for Years 6-13 in 2006. Across two sites, Swans educates children of more than fifty nationalities. Many teachers have been with the school for more than a decade, with some serving over thirty years. The school regularly competes with the best students internationally and sends graduates to some of the world's top universities.
Community	Community Aloha College Marbella has an international community with over 50 nationalities represented, fostering cultural diversity and global mindedness. An active alumni network maintains strong ties with the school, with former students returning as parents and mentors. The ECO-School program embeds sustainability into curriculum and daily life through student-led initiatives, including a biodiverse garden, water conservation, beach clean-ups and recycling. Solidarity Actions engages students in local and global charitable causes, led by students and reinforced by staff and the wider community.	Community Swans has a diverse international community with students from more than fifty nationalities. The enrichment program includes the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, The Debate Club, Student Council, and Charity Work, which provides life skills beyond the standard curriculum. Prospective families are invited to visit Swans to experience the school's atmosphere. There are testimonials from former students that reflect the long-standing connections within the community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Aloha Parents Society is a group of volunteers who help organise many of our most loved events—like the Welcome Party, Christmas Bazaar, and Family Fun Day. They also run coffee mornings and a second-hand uniform shop. Their support is a big part of our community spirit.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Aloha College Marbella offers a vibrant co-curricular programme that includes STEM, sport, the arts, languages, wellbeing and social development. The programme provides a range of clubs and activities beyond the classroom, with sessions open to both Primary and Secondary students and delivered by staff and senior pupils. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is part of the enrichment offering and provides a framework across four sections to develop practical and leadership skills. Full details of the co-curricular offerings are available in the Co-Curricular Booklet.	Academic & intellectual Foundation Stage runs from age 3 to 5; Primary runs from age 5 to 11; Secondary runs from age 11 to 16 with a broad GCSE curriculum. Sixth Form is for ages 16 to 18, and the International Baccalaureate is offered there. A brand new, purpose-built school was constructed in Sierra Blanca for Years 6-13 in 2006.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Music plays a vital role in school life. Music is taught by subject specialists in both Primary and Secondary, with clubs and ensembles outside timetabled lessons for beginners to advanced performers. The School Production, Pop Band and Singing rehearsals provide regular performance opportunities, and a new school band is formed each academic year. Drama offers student-led experiences with a large-scale production, a co-curricular drama club, and Theatre Thursdays in the Drama Studio, fostering creativity, confidence, leadership and collaboration.	Arts & creative —
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Languages are a focus within the co-curricular programme, with opportunities to engage in language-based clubs and activities beyond the classroom. The broader programme includes languages alongside sport, arts, STEM, games, wellbeing and social development, encouraging intercultural understanding and cross-age collaboration. Full details of the co-curricular offerings are provided in the Co-Curricular Booklet.	Cultural & language The school has two sites in Marbella: Swans School Primary on El Capricho, s/n and Swans School Secondary on Lago de los Cisnes, s/n. The school educates children of more than fifty nationalities.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Clubs span games, hobbies and social development, with sessions open to both Primary and Secondary students and led by staff and older pupils. Students across age groups collaborate in shared clubs, building friendships and teamwork beyond lessons. The programme provides experiences beyond the classroom to support informal interests and social connections.	Social & hobbies The school offers an enrichment program that teaches life skills and provides character-building experiences outside the standard academic curriculum.
Community & service	Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is part of the co-curricular programme and includes volunteering as a core section, with students engaging in charity work, environmental projects and community support. The award also includes Skill, Physical Recreation and Adventurous Journey sections that foster practical service and teamwork. These activities contribute to social responsibility and community engagement as part of Be your best.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The co-curricular life offers leadership opportunities, including student leadership roles in drama and the presence of Student Arts Ambassadors. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award fosters leadership, planning and teamwork through its four sections (Skill, Volunteering, Physical Recreation and Adventurous Journey). Students also take on roles in clubs and events, delivering projects with staff support.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is a central part of wellbeing at Aloha College Marbella, with Football Club, Basketball Club, Athletics and Cross Country fostering fitness, teamwork and resilience. The sports programme aims to create inclusive opportunities for all students to participate and develop lifelong healthy habits. Wellbeing is supported across the co-curricular programme through performance arts, mindfulness and a variety of physical activities that promote confidence and belonging.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school has existed since 1971 and is dedicated to teaching and learning for over 50 years, with a supportive and inviting environment where pupils enjoy learning and feel safe.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision All classes are taught in English. Spanish is introduced from Nursery, and by Year 2 there are up to six hours of Spanish per week. From Year 7, French or German can be studied as an additional Modern Foreign Language. Spanish is offered as a First or Second language in Secondary and Sixth Form, with opportunities to study Spanish in IB or A-Level, including ab initio options for IB students.	Language provision English is taught as part of the British curriculum, while Spanish is included within the Spanish ESO Curriculum. Spanish Languages and Literature are offered as a subject in both Primary and Secondary Education.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The language of instruction is English. Spanish is introduced from Nursery, and by Year 2 students have up to six hours of Spanish per week. From Year 7, French or German can be studied as an additional Modern Foreign Language. In the IB Diploma Programme, History is taught in Spanish, contributing to a bilingual diploma; many teachers are native English speakers, and Spanish mother tongue staff support language development.	Bilingual teaching The school follows the British curriculum alongside the Spanish ESO Curriculum, indicating a bilingual educational model using English and Spanish.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs The language of instruction is English, with near- or perfect-immersion classroom settings to support English language development. From Reception onwards, students learn and communicate in English while taking part in an extensive Spanish program to develop their mother tongue. All Key Stage 3 students study a third language (French or German). In the IB Diploma Programme, Language A options include Spanish or English, and Language B options include English, Spanish, French and German.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Enquiry Stage. The process starts with an enquiry on the school's site. OpenApply provides access to upload documents, track progress, and complete the application. The most recent school reports, copies of passports (child and both parents), and proof of English proficiency for Year 1 and above (if English is not the first language) are requested. There are two application periods: 1 November–31 January for entry in the following academic year and 1 March–31 May; applications outside these periods may be considered subject to availability.	Admissions The school charges an entrance fee of €1,975 for Foundation Stage, €2,975 for Year 1–Year 6, and €3,975 for Year 7–Year 13, payable when a place is offered; a refundable deposit of €1,000 is payable on acceptance of the school place, with the deposit refunded in June provided written withdrawal is received at least one full term in advance; the deposit is forfeited if a place is accepted but not taken up; if the deposit is not collected by 1 September, it may be transferred to the Swans Library Fund. If no place is immediately available, applicants are placed on a waiting list for the relevant year group and the School will notify parents/guardians when a place becomes available; applicants who do not maintain contact with the School within one academic year of placement on the waiting list will be removed; parents/guardians must notify the Admissions Secretary of any change of contact details. All new entrants are subject to a six‑month trial period, which may be extended for a further six months where a pupil's effort or behaviour does not meet required standards; during the trial or extension the School may take appropriate action, including termination of enrolment, if standards are not met. A full term's written notice is required to withdraw a pupil, with deposit refund deadlines of 1 September (Autumn), 20 December (Spring) and 30 March (Summer). Fees are payable in advance, no later than the end of the first week of each term; if parents anticipate difficulty in making payment they must meet the School's Managing Director before the term begins to agree alternative arrangements; failure to comply may result in loss of place. A surcharge is applied to any fees unpaid by the end of the first week of term. Fees are non‑refundable for absence unless exceptional circumstances apply. Sibling discounts apply to tuition fees: second child 3%, third child 15% and fourth child 20%. Where a pupil is assessed as requiring additional tuition or placement in a smaller support group, provision will be charged to parents at the current private tuition rate (or at a reduced rate where applicable) and must be paid in advance, no later than the end of the first week of term. Progression to the next year group is not automatic; the School may withhold progression where a pupil's academic performance, effort or English language proficiency is insufficient; the School will notify parents of any required interventions; costs for assessments may be charged to parents unless expressly stated otherwise. Pupils must wear the uniform and comply with the Uniform and Appearance Policy; items must be clearly labelled; the School accepts no liability for unlabelled items; stationery and equipment must be supplied as specified for the year group; a list of compulsory items will be provided at the start of term; the School may require assessments to determine a pupil's needs at cost to parents unless stated otherwise. The Home‑School Agreement requires parental support; there is a zero‑tolerance policy toward aggressive or abusive behaviour by pupils or parents/guardians; the School reserves the right to terminate the contractual relationship for serious or repeated breaches; digital conduct, safeguarding and medical protocols apply; consent to use pupil images is granted by enrolment (with opt‑out possible in writing); the School may amend these Terms and Conditions with 28 days' publication notice; deposit forfeiture provisions apply as stated; Administrative Procedures are published by the School.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships The school awards a scholarship covering the entire Primary Education phase (Year 2 to Year 7) in collaboration with Marbella Town Hall; the scholarship was announced July 31, 2024 and was awarded to a local Marbella student.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waiting list. If no place is available, an offer is made on the waiting list. To accept, pay €1,250 within one week; this payment is refundable if no place is offered. If a place becomes available, the remaining €1,250 must be paid within 48 hours to secure the spot.	Waitlist If no place is immediately available, applicants are placed on a waiting list for the relevant year group; the School will notify parents/guardians when a place becomes available; applicants who do not maintain contact with the School within one academic year of placement on the waiting list will be removed; parents/guardians must notify the Admissions Secretary of any change of contact details.
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