Españaula Blog: Your Guide to Schools & Education in Málaga & the Costa del Sol

If you’re relocating to Spain with kids and planning a summer scouting trip, you’re probably wondering: Will schools even be open? Can I visit any in person? Will anyone answer my emails?

Here’s what you need to know to make the most of a summer visit—including which schools might be open, what to expect, and how to prepare if you’re hoping to enroll for the fall.

Are Schools Open in the Summer?

Yes… and no.

Spain has a very quiet summer season, especially in August. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:

Public & Concertado Schools

• Closed from mid-July through all of August
• Office staff and administrators are often unavailable
• Visits are generally not possible
• You’ll need to go through the Delegación Territorial for late enrollment requests (and these offices also close in August)

📝 Tip: If you’re applying to a public or concertado school, be prepared to wait until early September for any in-person support.

Private & International Schools

• Many remain partially open through July and some reopen in mid-to-late August
• Admissions teams are often available to give tours or set up meetings with staff
• Some offer rolling admissions and will be more responsive to summer inquiries

📝 Tip: If you’re visiting in July or late August, focus your energy on scheduling tours with private and international schools—they’re much more likely to be active and responsive. Check Instagram and social media, as those that remain open for tours tend to make it known.

How to Make the Most of Your Summer School Search

If you’re planning to visit schools during your trip, here are a few ways to use your time well:

1. Reach Out Early

• Email admissions teams 2–3 weeks in advance
• Briefly explain your situation and dates in Spain
• Ask if tours or meetings are possible and suggest specific days/times

2. Have Your Paperwork Ready

If you’re hoping to apply or start the process, bring:

• Your child’s passport and NIE
• Proof of your residency paperwork (if available)
• Any previous school reports/transcripts
• If possible, proof of your address or padrón submission

3. Prepare Questions Ahead of Time

Whether you’re doing a formal tour or just meeting with office staff, ask about:

• Typical class sizes
• Languages taught and level of support for non-Spanish speakers
• Daily schedule and extracurriculars
• Availability of places in your child’s grade level

4. Drive or Walk by the Schools

Even if you can’t go inside, it’s helpful to:

• Get a feel for the neighborhood and commute
• See what drop-off/pickup areas look like
• Check for green space, outdoor areas, and overall environment

5. Join Local Parent Groups (Like Ours!)

If you’re visiting but can’t access a school directly, local expat and parent groups are a goldmine of insight. You can:

• Ask other families about their experiences
• Get honest feedback about schools you’re considering

It’s Okay If You Can’t Do It All Now

Many families can’t fully enroll during a summer visit—and that’s okay. The most important thing is to gather information, build connections, and start the paperwork you can.

📌 Need help identifying schools you can visit while you’re in town?
📌 Want to get your documents in order before you arrive?

Let Us Help

At Españaula, we help families plan school visits, prepare paperwork, and understand what’s actually possible during a summer trip.

🧭 Join our Facebook group to connect with other parents and ask questions, or reach out for personalized support if you’re planning a summer scouting trip.