Although at first glance it may seem that all education systems are similar, the truth is that, beyond the classes, homework and exams, there are profound differences that can shape a student’s academic and personal career.

So, if you are thinking about studying for a school year in England or switching to a British school in Spain, this article will explain the differences between the British and Spanish education systems, from the structure of the courses to the assessment methods.

British education system in Spain

A growing number of families in our country are opting for schools that follow the British education system in Spain. It is a programme that combines the best of both worlds: a British-style education, with modern methodology and a practical approach, and all provided without the need to leave the country.

In Spain there are now many British schools approved by the Ministry of Education which follow the UK curriculum. Students study subjects in English, with native or bilingual teachers, and follow the educational stages as they would in England: Primary School, Secondary School and Sixth Form.

This model allows students to obtain official British qualifications (GCSEs and A-Levels) which are fully valid for entry to universities in the United Kingdom and the rest of the world, including Spain. 

Furthermore, from an early age, pupils learn to live in an international environment, which encourages the development of a critical mentality and allows them to considerably improve their level of English, which is key in today’s workplace.

Differences between the English and Spanish education systems

The comparison between the British and Spanish education systems is not only based on the subjects or the language, but also on the learning methodology, the assessment criteria and how the educational process is experienced.

More practical than theoretical

One of the main differences between British and Spanish education is its fundamentally practical approach.  In Spain we are still anchored in a rather theoretical and rote model where knowledge continues to be measured by the ability to repeat what has been learnt in an exam. This leaves little room for creativity or practical application.

Conversely, in the UK, priority is given to the practical application of knowledge. Students learn by doing: designing projects, experimenting in laboratories, participating in historical simulations or creating advertising campaigns. It’s not just about having the knowledge; it’s about knowing how to do things. For example, instead of memorise historical dates, students could re-enact the Nuremberg trial.

British education system: a commitment to continuous assessment

Another big difference between British and Spanish education is the type of assessment. 

In Spain, final exams remain the main method of assessment. So one bad day can ruin an entire term. It doesn’t seem fair, does it?

In the UK, the norm is for students to be assessed on an ongoing basis throughout the course. This means that not everything depends on a final exam, since weekly assignments, presentations, class participation, projects and short tests are also assessed to measure progress on an ongoing basis. As a result, pressure is reduced and students have the opportunity to demonstrate their real progress.

Academic demands and diversification by levels

In Spain, the system is more homogeneous: all students receive practically the same content and at the same pace. This can often leave those who need more support lagging behind and can also demotivate those who are able to make faster progress.

The British education system, on the other hand, is demanding but also flexible. From the age of 14, pupils begin to choose subjects according to their interests and abilities. For example, at A-Level they only take 3 or 4 subjects, but they are studied in a greater amount of depth.

In addition, there is diversification by level: if a student excels in mathematics, they can take that subject at a more advanced level. And if they have difficulties in another subject, they are assigned to a group more suited to their pace. So, as well as being more personalised, it is also more motivating. 

Teamwork

Although teamwork has been gradually introduced in Spain in recent years, individual assessment continues to be the predominant method. And what happens when we are asked to work in teams at university or in the workplace? Many do not know where to start.

In the British model, teamwork is not a passing phenomenon, it is a pillar of education. From a very early age, students collaborate on projects, exhibitions, group tasks and activities where they learn to coordinate, share tasks and resolve conflicts. This promotes essential skills such as communication and leadership. 

Work by objectives

Another fundamental difference between the British and Spanish education systems is that the student knows from the beginning what the objectives of the course are. It is not a case of attending classes just for the sake of it, rather it is a case of working towards specific goals. Students feel that they have a purpose and that what they do has an objective, which contributes to improving their self-esteem, their level of autonomy and their sense of responsibility.

By contrast, in Spain, it is not always clear to students what is expected of them until it is time for the exam, which makes it difficult to focus on planning and motivation.

Less textbooks

In Spain, we are still very dependent on textbooks. Each subject has its own, and families are forced to spend a lot of money on books at the start of the school year.  

In the UK, students do not carry mountains of textbooks. Instead, they use loose-leaf paper, photocopies, online materials and resources shared from school. Everything is kept in binders or folders.

Final thought: which system is better?

So, which option is better: the Spanish or the British education system? When it comes to deciding, we must ask what kind of education we want for our children: a methodology that focuses on passing exams or one that really prepares them for life?

The Spanish system is strong on content and theoretical preparation, while the British system is strong on practicality, personalisation and developing skills for the real world.

So, if you are looking for a more flexible, personal and career-oriented education, British education is an excellent option. And thanks to the wide range of British schools in Spain, you don’t have to move to another country to enjoy its benefits.