Swans International School - Primary Campus and The British School of Málaga are both in Malaga. Both schools offer British and EYFS programmes, and The British School of Málaga also offers Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE. Published annual fees are €8,750 - 20,500 at Swans International School - Primary Campus and €8,780 - 11,080 at The British School of Málaga, which puts Swans International School - Primary Campus roughly 47% higher. Swans International School - Primary Campus takes pupils from 3 to 11, and The British School of Málaga from 3 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 800 and 960 pupils. Typical class sizes are 12 at Swans International School - Primary Campus and 23 at The British School of Málaga.
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Swans International School - Primary Campus
Malaga, Spain
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The British School of Málaga
Malaga, Spain
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year €8,750 - 20,500 | Fees / year €8,780 - 11,080 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 11 years | Age range 3 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum British Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage) | Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Pearson Edexcel IGCSE |
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Pupils
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Pupils 800 | Pupils 960 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 12 | Typical class size 23 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English, Spanish | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 1971 | Opened 2000 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service Yes |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location Marbella, Málaga, Spain. Primary Campus: El Capricho s/n, Marbella 29602. Secondary Campus: Lago de los Cisnes, s/n, Marbella 29602. | Location The school is located at Centaurea, 8, 29018 Málaga, Spain. |
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Stages
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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. | Stages The school offers Early Years through Sixth Form. |
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School type
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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. | School type The school is a British international school. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix More than fifty nationalities represented. | Pupil nationality mix The school has over 50 nationalities represented and more than 25 languages spoken. |
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Additional learning support
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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. | Additional learning support The school has an ALN Department providing support for ALN, including English as an Additional Language (EAL) and signposting to professionals such as psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists and play therapists. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation Spain | Country affiliation The school has a British affiliation. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure The school day runs from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, with a Breakfast Club from 8:00 am and a Snack Club from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details — | Bus service details The school has a bus service with seven routes. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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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. | Fee details Application / Registration Fees - Registration fee (one-off, new students only): EUR 1,100 per child. The registration fee is a single, non‑refundable payment. - Annual enrolment fee (renewal): EUR 1,100 per child, charged each year for enrolled students. Tuition fees by year group (published annual amounts, and monthly / per‑term conversions) Note: The school publishes annual tuition and offers a default 10‑month instalment option; the monthly figure below is the published annual fee divided by 10. The per‑term figure below is the published annual fee divided by 3 (three academic terms) and is shown for convenience. - Early Years - Nursery (age 3): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 8,780. Monthly (10 payments): EUR 878. Per term (approx.): EUR 2,927. - Reception (age 4): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 8,780. Monthly: EUR 878. Per term (approx.): EUR 2,927. - Primary (Ages 5–11) - Year 1 (age 5): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 9,530. Monthly: EUR 953. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,177. - Year 2 (age 6): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 9,530. Monthly: EUR 953. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,177. - Year 3 (age 7): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 9,780. Monthly: EUR 978. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,260. - Year 4 (age 8): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 9,780. Monthly: EUR 978. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,260. - Year 5 (age 9): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 9,980. Monthly: EUR 998. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,327. - Year 6 (age 10): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 9,980. Monthly: EUR 998. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,327. - Secondary (Ages 11–16) - Year 7 (age 11): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 10,680. Monthly: EUR 1,068. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,560. - Year 8 (age 12): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 10,680. Monthly: EUR 1,068. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,560. - Year 9 (age 13): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 10,850. Monthly: EUR 1,085. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,617. - Year 10 (age 14): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 11,650. Monthly: EUR 1,165. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,883. - Year 11 (age 15): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 11,650. Monthly: EUR 1,165. Per term (approx.): EUR 3,883. - Sixth Form / A‑Levels (Ages 16–18) - Year 12 (age 16): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 12,050. Monthly: EUR 1,205. Per term (approx.): EUR 4,017. - Year 13 (age 17): Registration EUR 1,100 • Enrolment EUR 1,100 • Annual tuition EUR 12,050. Monthly: EUR 1,205. Per term (approx.): EUR 4,017. Billing schedule and payment terms - Default billing method: 10 monthly instalments (September to June inclusive) by direct debit. Returned direct debit charge: EUR 20. Unpaid invoices must be settled within 10 days; a 3% interest is applied to outstanding amounts. Annual upfront payment (paid in full before 31 July) receives a 5% discount. Third‑child discount: 50% discount applicable from the third child on the enrolment fee and tuition fees only. Annual payments are non‑refundable. Boarding fees - Boarding: not applicable. The published fee schedule lists day‑school tuition and additional day services (bus, clubs, breakfast/snack) but does not list boarding facilities or boarding fees. Other costs and additional fees - School lunch: included in the published tuition fee (school lunch is mandatory and included). - School accident insurance: included. - Uniform: compulsory for Nursery through Year 11; uniform must be purchased through the school (prices not listed in the fee schedule). - Chromebook/device: compulsory purchase required for students in Year 3 through Year 11 (price not listed in the fee schedule). Chromebook licences and some digital licences are included in the listed “included” items. - Intensive EAL (English as an Additional Language) programme (for new students): EUR 1,150 per year in KS1 and EUR 2,200 per year in KS2 and KS3; payable in monthly instalments. - External examinations (IGCSE, A‑levels, and official validations) are not included in the published tuition and are charged separately. School trips are not included. - After‑school clubs and extra activities: charged separately. Sample published rates (termly / additional services): - Breakfast/Snack Club (termly): Single ticket EUR 6; 1 day/week EUR 65; 2 days/week EUR 110; 3 days/week EUR 155; 4 days/week EUR 185; Full week EUR 200 (combined with bus or after school lower rates apply). - After‑school general activities (termly, sample): Standard (2 sessions/week) EUR 175; Basic (1 session/week) EUR 145; Extended (3 sessions/week) EUR 205. - Other activities (termly, sample): Standard EUR 200; Basic EUR 170; Extended EUR 220. - School bus (annual/termly options shown as published): Local stops (within Málaga city): Return EUR 555; One‑way EUR 345. Suburban stops (outside Málaga city): Return EUR 600; One‑way EUR 390. (September only/first month pro‑rata termly figures are listed separately in the schedule.) Refund information - The registration fee is explicitly non‑refundable. Annual payments per child are stated as non‑refundable. No other refundable amounts or a broader refund schedule is published in the school's fee document. Returned direct debit charge and late‑payment interest provisions apply as noted under billing terms. Fee payment options - Published payment options and mechanics: default method is 10 monthly instalments by direct debit; the school accepts an annual upfront payment (with a 5% discount if paid before 31 July). The published fee document specifies returned direct debit penalties and late‑payment interest. Specific alternative payment channels (for example, credit card or bank transfer) are not detailed in the published fee schedule. If you need these amounts presented in a different format (for example, separated by monthly instalments per line or per‑term rows for a database import), the figures above are given as published (annual), with the monthly instalment shown as the published annual fee divided by 10 and the per‑term figure shown as the published annual fee divided by 3 for convenience. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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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. | Uniform requirement Uniform is compulsory. |
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Food options
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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. | Food options Lunch is compulsory for all students; the current menu changes monthly and is available on the BSM Portal. |
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House system
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House system — | House system Houses Earth, Wind, Fire and Water; all students and teachers belong to a house; houses receive points for activities and events. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership — | Governance and ownership The school is part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), an international group of schools. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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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. | Curriculum details Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) British curriculum with language immersion. Primary School uses the British national curriculum, complemented with Spanish Language and Cultural Studies. Secondary School progresses with the British national curriculum and leads to IGCSE results, while continuing Spanish classes and ESO preparation. Sixth Form advances to A Level and Spanish university access exams, with a personalised curriculum and the option to study Spanish alongside English to support access to universities in Spain and worldwide. The school holds accreditations from Cambridge International Examinations, Pearson Qualifications, AQA, Cambridge English, and OxfordAQA. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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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. | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression Graduates have secured places at top universities worldwide, including LSE, ESADE, Cambridge, Imperial, and University College Utrecht. | Higher education progression Graduates progress to universities in Spain and worldwide. |
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Gifted and talented
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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. | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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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. | Social & emotional learning The school builds essential life skills through practical classes and group activities. Students develop empathy, confidence and emotional intelligence as part of the learning journey. Life skills are integrated with academic learning to prepare students for life beyond school. Teachers mentor students to collaborate, communicate and navigate challenges. These social-emotional competencies are fostered across the curriculum. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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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. | Special educational needs (SEN) The school has an Additional Learning Needs (ALN) Department to support students with ALN. The ALN policy describes identification, planning and provision to help students access the curriculum and reach their potential as people and lifelong learners. The policy acknowledges emotional, social, mental health or behavioural barriers that can affect learning and outlines appropriate supports. A range of specialists are available to support ALN students, including psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists and play therapists. The ALN programme includes tailored support for primary and secondary students, with referrals and monitoring; it may involve a tailored or intensive plan and costs where applicable. Parents are informed and engaged in the process. |
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English as an additional language
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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. | English as an additional language The school has a dedicated English as an Additional Language Department that provides dedicated sessions and tailored help. The EAL team provides 1:1 sessions and ongoing guidance in Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking. Intensive English instruction is provided through tailored interventions assessed case-by-case. New students are assessed on enrolment to determine the level of EAL support. In secondary, CEFR levels guide the EAL programme and there are pathways including EAL IGCSE where appropriate. Languages offered include English and Spanish with certification, and from Secondary students can study French or German as additional languages. |
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Mental wellbeing
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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. | Mental wellbeing The wellbeing is supported by a wellbeing programme to ensure physical, emotional and social health. Life-skills education and a commitment to wellbeing are embedded in the learning approach. The learning framework balances mental, emotional and physical health as part of student development. The Camtree Life Competencies framework underpins wellbeing initiatives through life-skills development. Wellbeing is integrated into curricular and co-curricular activities to support resilience and holistic development. |
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Safeguarding
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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 Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility; safeguarding is a shared commitment with policies and practices that meet high standards of care, respect and security. All staff posts require thorough vetting and Criminal Background Checks or equivalent. The safeguarding team includes the Head of Pastoral Care & Designated Safeguarding Lead and a Deputy. The school provides safeguarding and online safety training for all staff, a school nurse, anti-bullying initiatives and an ALN Department. A wellbeing programme supports physical, emotional and social health, and visitors are required to register. The safeguarding policy is designed to protect students and ensure safe care and security. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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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. | Facilities overview The campus comprises four age-appropriate buildings: Foundation (Nursery and Reception), Primary, Secondary and Sixth Form. Foundation has two floors for Nursery and Reception, with terraces, learning spaces and a large outdoor play area. Primary is a four-floor facility opened in 2024 with a dedicated playground and a ground-floor multi-purpose sports hall. Secondary provides specialised spaces for Music and Radio, Computer Science, Science, and Art and Media, and also houses the main Reception and dining room. Sixth Form offers a dedicated building with specialised classrooms, a student lounge and an outdoor terrace for preparing for exams and future pathways. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities — | Sports facilities The indoor sports hall is a large multi-purpose facility with retractable seating for training and events. An outdoor swimming pool is available for training and leisure. Multi-sports courts provide spaces for football or tennis. A basketball court offers a dedicated area for training and matches. Paddle courts include four glass courts for paddle sports. |
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Academic facilities
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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. | Academic facilities Foundation building is a two-floor space for Nursery and Reception with terraces and a dining room for children. Primary building, opened in 2024, is a four-floor facility for exploration and learning, and houses a ground-floor multi-purpose sports hall and a grass playground. Secondary building houses specialised classrooms for Music & Radio, Computer Science, Science, and Art and Media, with access to technology to support hands-on learning. The Secondary building also hosts the school's main Reception and the dining room. The Sixth Form building provides dedicated spaces for senior students to focus on exams and future pathways, plus a student lounge and outdoor terrace. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities The enrichment program teaches life skills and provides character-building experiences outside the standard academic curriculum. | Extra curricular facilities International opportunities are offered through International School Partnership programmes, including ISP Changemakers, ISP Cultural Exchange, ISP Scientists, ISP Virtual Exchange and ISP Model United Nations. These ISP programs promote global learning through projects, exchanges and real-world challenges. Beyond the classroom, the school offers Athletics, Art & Handicrafts, Ballet, Basketball, Chess, Flamenco, Football and more, enabling students to develop leadership, teamwork and creativity. The program highlights include public speaking, cross-cultural collaboration and real-world problem solving, with various ISP and school-led activities running across terms. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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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. | History The British School of Málaga has 25 years of excellence. It is part of International Schools Partnership. It follows the British national curriculum from age 3 to 18, complemented by Spanish Language and Cultural Studies. Learners can take French or German as additional languages from Secondary School. The campus is world-class with dedicated buildings for each age stage, purpose-built labs, creative studios, sports fields and playgrounds. |
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Community
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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. | Community In a caring community, students at The British School of Málaga grow into confident lifelong learners. There is a strong partnership with parents, with teachers updating families about student progress and needs while Parent Ambassadors collaborate to improve school life. Parent Ambassadors collaborate to improve school life. Students collaborate with peers around the world through ISP programs and global skill-building opportunities. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association — | Parent teacher association Parent Ambassadors collaborate with staff to improve school life. Teachers update families about student progress and needs. There is a strong parent-school relationship. The school is part of International Schools Partnership, connecting with a global network. This ISP connection supports collaboration across schools. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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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. | Academic & intellectual The school provides international opportunities through ISP programmes, including ISP Changemakers, ISP Cultural Exchange, ISP Scientists, ISP Virtual Exchange and ISP Model United Nations. ISP Changemakers equips students to develop social impact projects through thought design workshops and collaboration across ISP schools, with grants for real-change initiatives. ISP Cultural Exchange enables reciprocal cultural exchanges with ISP schools, including homestays and attending another ISP school for a month, with regional in-person qualifiers and virtual championships. ISP Scientists offers citizen-science style learning with real-world environmental projects and partnerships with external experts. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative — | Arts & creative Art Club focuses on origami, collaborative artwork and clay modelling. Ballet and Flamenco introduce dance disciplines, while Funky dance classes foster expression and coordination. Recorder Club teaches the recorder and progresses through ABRSM exam pieces; Secondary Singers develop musicianship and perform at events; Composing & Songwriting Club explores creating songs and music. Dungeons & Dragons provides imaginative storytelling and role-playing experiences. |
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Cultural & language
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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. | Cultural & language Language Clubs improve German and English skills through dedicated sessions. ISP Cultural Exchange enables reciprocal cultural exchanges across ISP schools, including homestays, regional qualifiers and virtual championships. The school's international ISP opportunities connect students with peers worldwide and support cross-cultural learning. These programs broaden language exposure and cultural understanding through global collaboration. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies The school offers an enrichment program that teaches life skills and provides character-building experiences outside the standard academic curriculum. | Social & hobbies Primary Clubs include Gardening Club, Recorder Club, Primary Singers, Knitting Club and Debate Club, among others. Secondary & Sixth Form Clubs include Chess Club, Debate Club, Maths Clinic, Language Clubs, Book Club, Composing & Songwriting Club, Recorder Club, Secondary Singers, Futsal, Active Lunchtimes, Circuit Training, Beep Test and Dungeons & Dragons. Active Lunchtimes offer daily sport options such as basketball and futsal. Beep Test and Circuit Training provide structured fitness opportunities. |
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Community & service
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Community & service — | Community & service The school uses Earth, Wind, Water and Fire as School Houses to foster belonging and community spirit. Head Students and House Captains lead student communities, organize assemblies and events, and act as school ambassadors. Student Voice enables leadership and governance opportunities for students, including participation in charity actions. Charity activities are integrated into school life and events. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional — | Leadership & professional Head Students are senior student leaders who represent the school. House Captains and Vice Captains are Year 6 leaders who model behavior, support peers and help run events. Student Voice provides channels for leadership and school governance and helps develop professional skills through student-led initiatives. These roles cultivate responsibility, teamwork and project-based leadership among students. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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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. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Athletics classes build physical fitness, resilience and healthy competition. A range of sports includes Judo, Padel, Personal Defence, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Ballet, Flamenco and Football with futsal, promoting movement and coordination. Active Lunchtimes offer daily sport options, and Circuit Training plus Beep Test develop endurance and strength. Breakfast Club and Snack Club provide structured before- and after-school care with healthy snacks to support wellbeing. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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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. | Language provision English is the main language of instruction. Spanish is taught as an additional language and Spanish Language and Cultural Studies are integrated into the programme to support bilingual competence. Students receive certified education in English and Spanish; the Spanish Department manages authorisations with the Junta de Andalucía, integrating British studies into ESO and Baccalaureate. From Secondary onward, students study a third language, either French or German, leading to GCSE or A Level. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching The school follows the British curriculum alongside the Spanish ESO Curriculum, indicating a bilingual educational model using English and Spanish. | Bilingual teaching Infant education uses total linguistic immersion in English. From Reception and throughout Primary, English remains the main language of instruction and Spanish is added to develop bilingual competence through Spanish Language and Cultural Studies. In Secondary, a third language is introduced (French or German). |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs An English as an Additional Language (EAL) Department provides tailored support with sessions designed for individual students. The school offers an EAL programme with 1:1 and small-group sessions, regular progress reviews and targeted interventions. Translanguaging is used in some lessons to support multilingual learners. |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations NABSS; Junta de Andalucía; Cambridge International; Pearson Qualifications; AQA; Cambridge English; OxfordAQA; British Chambers Spain |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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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. | Admissions 01 Get in touch today. Get in touch to schedule a campus visit or online meeting, or participate in our monthly virtual open days. Enrolment is open all year round, and the admissions team provides personalized guidance throughout the onboarding process. 02 Join us for a tour. Visit the campus in person to gain a deeper understanding of your child's needs and interests. We discuss the curriculum and show the facilities, offering a glimpse into the learning environment. 03 Taster Day/Online interview. Your child's previous school report may be requested if applicable. We may invite them to experience a taster day at the school or arrange an online interview with the admissions team. 04 Acceptance. After the taster day or online interview, you'll receive a written offer. You'll have 10 days to accept and proceed with the registration process while a registration fee is mandatory to secure a place. 05 Welcome. Congratulations! You're now part of the BSM Family. Families are welcome to attend a Taster Day to experience firsthand how a school day operates, and ongoing communication with the school supports the onboarding journey. |
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Scholarships
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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. | Scholarships Scholarships & university partnerships exist as part of the International Schools Partnership (ISP) network. The school has 100+ global university partnerships that open doors to top institutions, with students awarded over €2.6 million in scholarships to support their success. Through exclusive scholarships, students have opportunities to study with some of the world's most renowned institutions. |
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Waitlist
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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. | Waitlist — |
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