ESA curriculum
Education for a global future
At The English School of Asturias students follow the British curriculum taught in English, alongside selected subjects from the Spanish curriculum. This ensures that students graduate as bilingual young people ready to succeed in a global future.
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IGCSEs and A-levels explained
IGCSEs and A-levels are the two main academic stages in secondary education in the British system.
IGCSEs are typically studied by students aged 14 to 16 (Years 10 and 11). During this stage, students take a broad range of subjects, including core areas like English, Mathematics, and Science, along with optional subjects such as History, Art, or languages. At the end of the two-year course, students sit externally assessed exams, and their results help determine their next academic steps.
A-levels are studied from ages 16 to 18 (Years 12 and 13) and are more specialized. Students usually choose three or four subjects that align with their interests and future university plans. These qualifications are highly regarded by universities worldwide and are often a key requirement for admission, as they demonstrate in-depth knowledge and strong academic preparation in specific subjects.
Spanish curriculum
At ESA our blended academic pathway allows students to follow an international curriculum while ensuring they are able to study at university in Spain. All teachers delivering Spanish subjects meet the required qualifications established by the regional authorities.
Sports, art and music in the curriculum
At The English School of Asturias students are encouraged to explore their creativity and develop their sporting abilities.
Music and art play an important role in school life. All pupils attend music lessons with a specialist teacher up to the age of 13, and music is incorporated into weekly assemblies. We have a junior’s choir and band groups that get together regularly to practice. These groups perform for peers and parents at events throughout the year, such as our Christmas concert and Summer Fair. For students studying an individual instrument we offer the opportunity to prepare for ABRSM exams offered by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music in the UK.
Our Primary Talent Shows offer another opportunity for pupils to share their talents with the school community.
Through this mixture of team and individual sports, pupils learn to apply tactics and strategies in competitive situations while developing their technical skills and overall performance. The curriculum also provides opportunities to explore creativity and expression through performing arts and dance, and develop life skills such as First Aid.
Throughout their time at school pupils have the opportunity to try a range of sports as part of their PE (physical education) classes.
This includes:
- Tennis
- Rugby
- Football
- Field hockey
- Badminton
- Handball
- Athletics
- Volleyball
- Pilates
- Yoga
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STEM, innovation, and Hands-on learning
At ESA, we are continuing to expand our focus on STEM and practical, hands-on learning opportunities. Students already have access to 3D printing technology, with older students helping to lead projects and mentor younger pupils. Current initiatives include designing and printing trophies for school competitions and developing robotics-based activities including a Robot Wars competition.
Equivalency between Spanish and British school systems
The table below shows the equivalent stages between the Spanish and British education systems.
| Spanish System | British System | Key Stage | School |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Infantil | Pre-Nursery | EYFS | EARLY YEARS |
| 1º Infantil | Nursery | ||
| 2º Infantil | Reception | ||
| 3º Infantil | Year 1 | KS1 | PRIMARY |
| 1º Primaria | Year 2 | ||
| 2º Primaria | Year 3 | KS2 | |
| 3º Primaria | Year 4 | ||
| 4º Primaria | Year 5 | ||
| 5º Primaria | Year 6 | ||
| 6º Primaria | Year 7 | KS3 | SECONDARY |
| 1º ESO | Year 8 | ||
| 2º ESO | Year 9 | ||
| 3º ESO | Year 10 | KS4 | |
| 4º ESO | Year 11 | ||
| 1º Bachillerato | Year 12 | KS5 | SIXTH FORM |
| 2º Bachillerato | Year 13 |
Teaching and Learning
Early Years
Primary School
Secondary School
Sixth Form
