If you're planning to move to Spain as part of a new project, and your family is following you, you're going to have to adapt to this new life. Many French investors are still reluctant to move to Spain because they don't want to disrupt their children's schooling. However, there is a wide choice of schools for the children of French expatriates. Although this is often seen as an advantage for children, moving abroad can also be a difficult ordeal. To ensure that the experience goes as smoothly as possible, you'll need to be attentive to their every need, and be patient in supporting them, particularly in their schooling. To begin with, the choice of school in Spain is crucial, as many factors need to be taken into account, such as the age and character of your child, as well as the length of your stay. Here are the options available to you:
The local Spanish school
Total immersion in the entirely Spanish-speaking world will help your child to adapt very quickly to the customs of the country and thus get used to the local life more easily. If your child is very young or if you wish to settle down for the long term, this is the most interesting option. However, if you choose this option, it is advisable to have your children take language courses by correspondence so that they can maintain a certain level of French, in addition to speaking it daily in the family environment. With this, your child will quickly be able to express himself in two languages fluently.
The French private school
In Spain, the French school, which offers an education in accordance with the French national education programs, is a good compromise for a smoother adaptation. The real advantage is that the teaching is often complemented by bilingual or even trilingual international programs. However, the annual cost of enrollment in these schools is significant and can be a hindrance for some families.
Bilingual schools
Keep in mind that the older your child gets, the more difficult it will be for them to learn Spanish naturally. This third option is more advisable if your child is older or not yet fluent in Spanish. Bilingual schools offer equal time in both languages. For others, there will be a reinforcement of the second language and/ or support provided.
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