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Helping you choose the right school for your child
Schools and education in Alfas del Pi – A guide for families
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you will make for your child. Also while moving to a new country. Alfas del Pi, located in the Costa Blanca region, offers a diverse range of educational options to suit different needs, languages and preferences. Families living here can choose between local Spanish schools, international institutions and Norwegian or Scandinavian programs (for students from scandinavian countries), each with unique advantages and challenges. This guide will hopefully help you understand the different types of schools available, how to enroll and what to consider when making your decision.
Local Spanish public schools
The town of Alfas del Pi and the surrounding area have several public schools (colegios for primary education and institutos for secondary education) that follow the national Spanish curriculum, LOE.
Classes are primarily in Spanish, but in this region, many schools also use Valenciano, the co-official local language. This means your child may have lessons in Valenciano for certain subjects, and it is often used in day-to-day communication in class. Learning Valenciano can be a great way for children to integrate into the local community, but it may pose an initial challenge for non-Spanish-speaking children.
The focus is on a solid foundation in subjects such as mathematics, science, Spanish language and literature, social studies and arts. Local schools also often offer extracurricular activities and foster strong ties to the community.
Enrollment in public schools is usually managed via the local town hall (“Ayuntamiento”) or directly with the school. You will need proof of residence (empadronamiento), passport or NIE (for child and parents) and to fill out the application form usually provided from the town hall or directly at the school. If you do not speak spanish you should always bring an interpreter.
Many primary schools in the area, including those in Alfas del Pi and surrounding towns, offer after-school programs to support working families. One popular option is Commedore, which provides a safe and engaging environment for children after regular school hours. The program can include homework help, creative activities, sports and social time, all supervised by trained staff. Commedore is a great way for children to continue learning, make friends, and stay active while parents finish their workday.
One of the main advantages of enrolling your child in a Spanish public school is that education is free for residents, and your child will quickly integrate into the local culture and make friendships with children from the neighborhood. However, the language can be a barrier, especially for children who do not speak Spanish fluently. Additionally, these schools
have a primarily local focus, with limited exposure to international curricula or instruction in English. (They do have some classes in english).
International Schools
The area offers a variety of international schools that provide high-quality education in English and other languages, as well as multicultural environments that support both academic and personal growth. These schools often have smaller class sizes and curricula designed to help students transition smoothly between countries or continue their studies abroad.
One of the main advantages of international schools is the smaller class sizes and individualized attention, which can help children adapt more easily and thrive academically. Many international schools also place a strong emphasis on language learning, ensuring that students who are not yet fluent in English or the primary language of instruction receive additional support. This allows them to integrate socially and participate fully in classroom activities.
Curriculum approaches can vary widely, from often British frameworks to alternative pedagogical models such as Waldorf-inspired education. Families may want to consider the teaching style, learning philosophy and extracurricular opportunities when choosing a school. After-school programs, which often include sports, arts, and cultural activities, can enrich children’s education while providing parents with additional support for childcare.
Choosing an international school also involves practical considerations. Tuition fees are higher than at public schools, so families should plan accordingly. Admission processes may include proof of previous schooling and language abilities, though requirements are generally straightforward. Location and transport options, as well as the school’s community and culture, are also important factors to consider.
Overall, international schools on the Costa Blanca offer a rich, supportive and multicultural learning environment. They combine academic rigor, personal development and language support, providing families with a stable and high-quality educational option that helps children grow both academically and socially.
When it comes to enrollment, each school has its own procedures and requirements. Parents are encouraged to contact schools directly to discuss availability, application forms, language support, and any other questions they may have. Speaking with the school team is the best way to get accurate, up-to-date information and ensure a smooth transition for your child.
Norwegian and scandinavian schools
These schools are ideal for children who may return to Norway (scandinavia) in the future, ensuring a smooth transition in education while maintaining a connection to Norwegian language and culture.
The Norwegian School Costa Blanca is the primary option, offering classes for students from primary through secondary education. There is also the norwegian school in Albir that offers classes from 1. to 10. grade. These schools provide the same curriculum (more or less) as in Norway and are aligned with Norwegian educational standards. However, places are limited, often has long waitinglists and commuting may be necessary, depending on the location.
Enrollment typically requires direct contact with the school, and applications are submitted online in the beginning of the year (january - march).
Public Schools in Alfas del Pi
Primary Schools
C.E.I.P. Veles e Vents
Address: Av. de les Corts Valencianes, 1, Alfas del Pi Phone: 966 87 09 00
Website: https://portal.edu.gva.es/03015646/
C.E.I.P. Santísimo Cristo del Buen Acuerdo
Address: Camí de la Mar, 21, Alfas del Pi Phone: 966 87 07 40
Website: https://portal.edu.gva.es/ceipsantissim/
C.E.I.P. Racó de l'Albir
Address: Carrer Richard Wagner, 2, Alfas del Pi Phone: 966 87 08 00
Website: https://portal.edu.gva.es/racodelalbir/
Secondary / High School
I.E.S. L’Arabi
Address: Alfas del Pi Phone: 966 87 06 00
Website: https://portal.edu.gva.es/ieslarabi/
International Schools in Alfas del Pi, La Nucía, Altea, and Albir (a selection)
Sierra Bernia School S.L. – Alfas del Pi
Address: Av. Sant Rafel, 8, 03580 l'Alfàs del Pi, Alicante
Phone: +34 966 87 51 49
Website: sierra-bernia-school.com
Altea International School (AIS) – Alfas del Pi
Address: Camí de l'Ermita, 12, 03580 l'Alfàs del Pi, Alicante
Phone: +34 625 29 56 34
Website: altea-international-school.es
Elian's British School La Nucía – La Nucía
Address: Avinguda el Copet, 5, 03530 La Nucía, Alicante
Phone: +34 966 87 70 55
Website: www.elian.es
Colegio Vallemar – La Nucía
Address: Partida Muixara, s/n, 1º rotonda, 3º salida, 03530 La Nucía, Alicante
Phone: +34 679 72 21 03
Website: colegiovallemar.com
Norwegian schools
Den Norske Skole Costa Blanca – Alfas del Pi
Address: Carrer Riu Guadiana, 14, Alfas del Pi
Phone: +34 965 88 77 67
Website: www.dnskolecosta.com
Norsk Skole Albir – Albir
Address: Carrer Estrella Polar, 37, Albir
Phone: +34 604 49 27 15
Website: https://www.minskole.no/dnsalbir