Madrid has a wide and well-established range of British schools that deliver the English National Curriculum, an education system internationally recognised for its academic rigour, progressive approach and strong orientation towards higher education. These schools offer a structured education across different stages —Early Years, Primary and Secondary— and prepare students for official British qualifications such as IGCSEs and A-Levels, which are highly valued by universities worldwide.
Many of these schools combine the British curriculum with international and bilingual approaches, integrating Spanish learning and fostering a global mindset from an early age. In addition, some schools incorporate active learning methodologies, such as Montessori, or innovative pedagogical approaches that prioritise experiential learning, critical thinking, and the development of personal and social skills.
British schools in Madrid are characterised by their high academic standards, teaching entirely in English, highly qualified teaching staff and a personalised approach to each student. All of this contributes to a strong preparation for entry into international universities, as well as the development of confident, independent students who are well prepared to thrive in a globalised world.
If you are looking for the best British school in Madrid for your children, here is a selection of some of the most highly regarded by families and educators.
British Montessori offers an educational model that integrates the British curriculum with the Montessori methodology, creating a student-centred learning environment. The school encourages autonomy, responsibility and intrinsic motivation, respecting each child’s individual pace of development. Teaching is delivered entirely in English, while Spanish is introduced progressively. The school stands out for its family-friendly atmosphere, small class sizes and a carefully considered approach to emotional and social development. It is particularly valued by families seeking a British education with an alternative approach, where hands-on learning and natural curiosity play a central role.
Dallington School is an independent, non-selective British school, known for its humanistic and personalised approach to education. It follows the British curriculum with a high degree of pedagogical flexibility, prioritising creativity, critical thinking and individual expression. The school offers small class sizes, allowing for close attention to each student. It is especially appreciated by families looking for an inclusive educational environment where both academic and personal development are equally valued. The school promotes a holistic education that prepares students to move confidently into future educational stages.
Green Stone British International School delivers the British National Curriculum in a modern, innovative and multicultural environment. The school is committed to a balanced education that combines academic excellence with emotional and social development. It stands out for its personalised approach, adapting learning to each student’s needs, and for integrating values such as sustainability, cooperation and global responsibility. Teaching in English is complemented by Spanish and other key subject areas. It is an attractive option for families seeking a contemporary British education with a strong international dimension.
Hastings School is one of the most well-established British schools in Madrid, with decades of experience and several campuses across the city. It follows the British curriculum closely, preparing students for official examinations such as IGCSEs and A-Levels. The school is known for its high academic standards, the quality of its teaching staff and its excellent academic results. In addition, it offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that enrich the academic programme. It is a highly valued option for families seeking a traditional, academically demanding British education with a strong focus on university progression
Holy Mary British Catholic School combines the British curriculum with an education grounded in Christian values. The school offers a rigorous academic education alongside a strong emphasis on students’ moral, social and spiritual development. Teaching is delivered in English, following the British education system, while Spanish also plays an important role within the curriculum. The school stands out for its structured environment, its focus on positive discipline and its commitment to the holistic development of each student. It is a suitable option for families seeking a British education with a solid religious foundation
International School of Madrid offers an international and bilingual approach, combining the British curriculum with other educational programmes. The school places a strong emphasis on global awareness, cultural diversity and the development of 21st-century skills. Teaching is predominantly in English, with a strong foundation in Spanish. ISM is known for its personalised attention, welcoming environment and preparation for an international academic future. It is an attractive option for expatriate and international families seeking a flexible education adapted to different educational systems.
Kensington School follows the British curriculum with a structured and academically demanding approach. The school stands out for its close attention to individual student progress and for offering a smooth transition to higher education in the UK and other countries. Teaching is primarily in English, with a carefully planned introduction to Spanish. Kensington places equal emphasis on academic achievement and personal development, fostering responsibility, confidence and motivation in its students. It is a solid option for families seeking a traditional British education focused on academic success.
King’s College School, La Moraleja is part of a prestigious international network of British schools. It offers a high-performing academic education, following the British curriculum from early years through to sixth form. The school is renowned for its excellent examination results and its strong focus on entry to elite universities. Alongside academic rigour, it promotes personal development, leadership and participation in extracurricular activities. It is one of the most recognised options for families seeking academic excellence and a clear international outlook.
King’s Infant School, Chamartín specialises in early years education, following the British system from a very young age. The school provides full English immersion in a safe, stimulating and carefully structured environment. Its educational approach focuses on children’s emotional, social and cognitive development, laying strong foundations for later stages of education. As part of the King’s College Schools group, it guarantees educational continuity and high academic standards. It is highly valued by families seeking an early introduction to British education.
Maxwell School offers British education in a close-knit and family-oriented environment. The school focuses on providing a solid academic foundation alongside personalised attention that supports students’ overall development. Teaching in English is combined with a practical and participatory approach, encouraging curiosity and confidence in learners. It is particularly appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to student wellbeing, making it a suitable option for families seeking a medium-sized British school with a personal touch.
My Little Farm Nursery School is a British early years centre focused on learning through play and exploration. The school offers a natural and stimulating environment where children develop social, emotional and cognitive skills from an early age. Teaching is delivered mainly in English, encouraging natural language immersion. It stands out for its playful approach, individualised attention and respectful educational philosophy, making it an excellent option for the earliest years of schooling.
Richmond Park School offers a rigorous British education with a strong academic and university-focused orientation. The school follows the British curriculum and prepares students for official examinations and entry to international universities. It is known for its academic demands, structured approach and close monitoring of individual progress. It is particularly suitable for families who prioritise academic performance and strong preparation for higher education abroad.
St. George Madrid offers a British education in an international and bilingual environment. The school places emphasis on academic excellence, student wellbeing and the development of values such as respect and responsibility. Teaching in English is complemented by a strong foundation in Spanish. The school stands out for its balanced approach, combining academic rigour with close attention to students’ personal and emotional development.
Thames British School follows the British curriculum, offering a structured and progressive education from an early age. The school is known for its approachable ethos, multicultural environment and personalised attention. Teaching in English is combined with Spanish learning, preparing students for an international academic context. It is a suitable option for families seeking a high-quality British education in an accessible and supportive environment
The British School offers a complete British education, from early years through to secondary education, following the National Curriculum of England. The school stands out for its strong academic focus, qualified teaching staff and preparation for international university studies. In addition, it promotes a holistic education that includes extracurricular activities and the development of personal skills. It is a well-established option for families seeking continuity and quality in British education.
The English Montessori School combines the British curriculum with the Montessori methodology, offering a bilingual, student-centred education. The school encourages autonomy, critical thinking and active learning within a carefully prepared environment. Teaching in English is predominant, with a strong presence of Spanish. It stands out for its innovative pedagogical approach and its commitment to the holistic development of the student, making it a highly valued option for families seeking a British education with an alternative methodology.
