Changing schools in the summer: Why it’s the best time and how to choose the best school in Spain

Changing schools is an important decision for any family. The summer is usually one of the best times to consider this change. The end of the school year provides an opportunity to take stock, analyse what has worked and what hasn’t, and look for a new educational programme with enough time to prepare for the transition. Furthermore, by starting in September, the pupil begins this new stage at the same time as their classmates, which makes social and academic adjustment easier.

Reasons why families decide to change their children’s school in the summer

The following are the common reasons why a family might decide to change their children’s school during the summer.

Emotional and social wellbeing

One of the most common reasons for changing schools is emotional and social wellbeing. A child or teenager may achieve good academic results and yet still not feel fully integrated, motivated or supported.

The signs can vary: a lack of enthusiasm for going to school, isolation, difficulties socialising, a loss of self-confidence, anxiety in certain situations, or a constant feeling of not fitting in. In such cases, it is important to speak to the current school, listen to the pupil and assess whether there are any measures that could improve the situation.

When the unease persists over time, changing schools can be an opportunity to make a fresh start in a more suitable environment.

Relocation or moving house

Moving house is another common reason. A change of city, country or even neighbourhood within the same city may make it necessary to look for a new school. In such cases, the choice should not only be based on practical criteria such as location or transport, but also on educational continuity.

For families moving from another country, international or multilingual schools can make the transition easier. These schools are usually accustomed to welcoming pupils from different educational systems and cultures, so they have more flexible induction processes and a diverse school community.

Change in educational approach

Sometimes, the current school has served its purpose for a certain stage, but no longer meets the family’s expectations for the future. This can happen when moving from nursery to primary school, from primary to secondary school, or in the years leading up to A-levels, when academic decisions begin to carry greater weight.

Some families are looking for a more international educational programme, a greater focus on languages, more active teaching methods, more technology, a stronger university preparation programme, or an approach that fosters independence and critical thinking.

Changing schools in the summer allows pupils to start the new academic year in an environment that is better aligned with the family’s expectations and the pupil’s needs. It is advisable to consider not only the current stage of the pupil’s education, but also the school’s medium- and long-term prospects.

Lack of attention to special needs

Another important reason may be a lack of attention to specific learning, emotional or social needs. Some pupils require academic support, adjustments, language support, emotional guidance or more personalised monitoring.

When a family feels that these needs are not being adequately met, they may consider looking for a school with a greater capacity for personalisation.

Catering for diversity does not mean lowering standards, but rather offering each pupil the tools they need to progress.

Summer: the perfect time to change schools

Summer provides a natural break between academic years. This break makes it easier to bring one stage to a close, prepare for the next and minimise the sense of disruption. When they start in September, pupils begin alongside the rest of the class, get to know the routines from the outset and take part in the first classroom activities.

It is also a good time for the family to organise the transition: visiting the new school, checking timetables, preparing materials, finding out about the uniform (if there is one), speaking to the form tutor and thinking ahead about what the first day will be like.

The search for an international and multilingual educational programme

More and more families are looking for schools that prepare their children for a globalised world. This involves learning languages, but also developing skills such as communication, independence, creativity, flexibility and the ability to get on with people from different cultures.

An international and multilingual educational programme can provide continuity for families who move around frequently, open up future academic opportunities and foster a more open-minded attitude. Furthermore, it enables pupils to learn to function effectively in diverse contexts from an early age.

Full language immersion

Language immersion is one of the most highly valued factors when changing schools. Learning a language naturally, by using it in subjects, activities and real-life situations, promotes fluency and confidence.

When exposure to the language begins in pre-school, pupils tend to internalise it more naturally. However, it is also important for the school to support those who join later or arrive with different language levels.

Active teaching methods

Active learning methodologies place the pupil at the centre of the learning process. Through projects, research, collaborative work, problem-solving and practical experiences, pupils do not simply memorise content, but learn to apply it.

This approach can be particularly motivating for pupils who need to be more actively involved, to connect what they learn with the real world, and to develop skills that will be useful for their academic and personal futures.

International education

International education is not limited to language. It also involves an approach to learning based on cultural openness, critical thinking and preparation for global contexts.

Pupils learn to view problems from different perspectives, to communicate with people from different backgrounds and to develop a responsible attitude towards the world around them.

Greater emotional wellbeing and personalised support

A change of school can be an opportunity to find an environment where the pupil feels better supported. Personalised support enables a better understanding of their strengths, difficulties, interests and learning style.

Emotional wellbeing must form part of the educational programme. When a school prioritises its relationship with pupils, communication with families and tutorial support, the transition becomes easier and learning takes place under better conditions.

An international educational model at ISP Schools

ISP Schools brings together schools with an international approach to learning, focused on supporting each pupil in their academic, personal and emotional development. Its schools combine languages, active teaching methods, personalised support and a global perspective on education.

Find the school in Spain that best suits your children

Every pupil is different. That is why choosing a school should not be based solely on location, reputation or facilities, but on the school’s ability to meet their actual needs.

At our schools, families can find a variety of educational programmes, with an international focus and support designed to help new pupils settle in. The aim is for every child or teenager to find an environment where they can learn, grow and feel part of a community.

Our british schools in Spain:

• British School of Vila-real (Vila-real, Castellón)
• The British School of Malaga (Málaga)
• The British School of Almería (Roquetas de Mar, Almería)
• St.George Barcelona (Barcelona)
• St. George Madrid (Madrid)
• Lady Elizabeth School (Alicante, Castellón)

Our international schools in Spain:

• Laude San Pedro International College (Marbella, Málaga)
• Newton College (Elche, Alicante)
• El Altillo International School (Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz)
• Fontenebro International School (Moralzarzal, Sierra de Madrid)
• Palacio de Granda (Siero, Oviedo, Asturias)
• Internacional Aravaca (Madrid)

Enrolment open all year round

ISP schools keep enrolment open all year round, making it easier for families to enrol their children whenever they need to. ISP schools offer a friendly and personalised admissions process, allowing you to request information, visit the school and speak to the admissions team to assess which is the best option for each pupil.

Changing schools can be a significant decision, but it is also an opportunity to find an international, innovative educational programme that is well-suited to your children’s future.