This is the start of a number of articles I hope to write for parents and prospective parents, hopefully from the experience of other expats who have already ‘been there’. At this stage it is not too detailed as it based on what I, as a non-parent, have found out to date, so any additions would be gratefully received by myself and other parents. Please comment if you have useful information.

On the subject of schooling, once you are registered as living in Almerimar, even if you haven’t taken up official residency, you are entitled to state schooling for your children. Registration is at the town hall in El Ejido and gets you your ‘empadromiento’.

I have been told there are currently 4 state schools in the El Ejido area, and another one is due to open in the next year. I believe it is fairly easy to choose which one you want your child to go to. An important thing to remember if you go with the state schools if that most of the children are Spanish and all the teaching is in Spanish. Also Spanish children don’t start school until they are 6, later than in the UK. Private and state nursery or pre-school is an earlier option.

There is a private nursery in Almerimar which is reasonably priced based on the number of days you want your child to attend. Once you agree the number of days, the cost is the same whether your child is there all days or just for a few hours. Activities do seem to be organised and focussed on both play and learning.

The alternative to a state school is the SEK, which is private and, up to the age of 12, has teaching split between English and Spanish. This however does cost 500€ p/m. Another option is the English School in Roquetas similarly priced.

Once again I’d appreciate comments from parents whose children are already attending schools or pre-schools in the Almerimar area.

About Almerimar

Almerimar is located in the region of Andalucia, Spain. The nearest airport is 30km away in Almeria. Other airports that are within 3 hours include Malaga, Murcia, Granada, and Alicanti. Other holiday resorts in the region include Mojacar , Aguadulce and Roquetas de Mar

Almerimar is also one of the largest marinas in Spain with over 2,000 births and excellent boatyard facilities.