What Are the Best Schools in Palma?
The best schools in Palma include a mix of international, bilingual, and Spanish institutions such as Agora Portals International School, Queen’s College, and Bellver International College. These schools offer British, IB, French, and Spanish curricula, making Palma one of the most attractive locations in Spain for families relocating from abroad.
Why Choosing the Best Schools in Palma Matters
For families relocating to Mallorca, education is often the deciding factor when choosing where to live.
Palma stands out because it offers:
- A wide range of international and bilingual schools
- High academic standards
- Multilingual education options
- Strong integration between local and international communities
This variety allows families to choose a school that aligns with their child’s long-term education goals.
Understanding the Education System in Mallorca
Before selecting from the best schools in Palma, it’s important to understand how the system works.
Types of Schools
Mallorca offers three main options:
- Public (Público) – Government-funded, primarily Spanish/Catalan
- Concertado (Semi-private) – Privately run but partially state-funded
- Private / International – Independent schools with global curricula
School Structure
- Academic year: September to June
- Compulsory education: Ages 6–16
- Stages include:
- Primary education
- ESO (Secondary)
- Bachillerato (pre-university)
International schools often follow British, IB, or other global systems.
The Best International Schools in Palma
Palma is particularly well known for its international education offering.
Agora Portals International School
Located in Portals Nous, this is one of the island’s leading schools, offering bilingual education alongside the IB Diploma and Spanish curriculum.
Queen’s College
A well-established British school offering the National Curriculum, IGCSEs, and A Levels. Popular with expat families.
Bellver International College
One of the longest-running British schools in Spain, known for its close-knit environment and strong academic focus.
Lycée Français International de Palma
Offers a full French curriculum from early years through to secondary education.
The Swedish School in Majorca
A smaller international option catering primarily to Scandinavian families.
The Best Spanish and Concertado Schools in Palma
For families looking to integrate into local culture, Spanish and semi-private schools offer excellent alternatives.
Colegio Nuestra Señora de Montesión
A historic institution with strong academic reputation, offering education from primary through Bachillerato.
Colegio Sagrat Cor
A respected concertado school with a focus on academic development and values-based education.
Colegio Luis Vives
A private bilingual school offering strong academic results and modern facilities.
How to Choose the Best School in Palma
Choosing between the best schools in Palma depends on several key factors.
Curriculum and Language
- International schools are ideal for globally mobile families
- Spanish schools support long-term integration
Budget Considerations
Private and international schools come with higher tuition fees, often alongside additional costs such as:
- Transport
- Uniforms
- Extracurricular activities
Location and Accessibility
Palma traffic can be a factor, so proximity to home is important for daily convenience.
School Environment
Some schools offer:
- Smaller class sizes and personalised learning
- Larger campuses with extensive facilities
Visiting schools in person is strongly recommended before making a decision.
Why Palma Is Ideal for Families
Palma has become one of the most desirable locations in Spain for relocating families.
This is due to:
- High-quality international education
- Excellent healthcare
- Safe, family-friendly environment
- Strong international community
Combined with lifestyle benefits such as beaches, outdoor living, and culture, Palma offers a well-rounded environment for both children and parents. To find out more, read our guide on top reasons to buy property in Mallorca.
FAQs: The Best Schools in Palma
Are there good international schools in Palma?
Yes. Palma offers a wide range of highly regarded international schools with British, IB, and French curricula.
Is education in Mallorca good for expat families?
Yes. The island is well-equipped for international families, with strong schooling options and multilingual environments.
Do children need to speak Spanish to attend school?
Not necessarily. International schools teach primarily in English or other languages, while Spanish schools may require some language adaptation.
Are private schools expensive in Palma?
Fees vary, but international schools are generally more expensive than public or concertado options.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best schools in Palma is one of the most important steps when relocating to Mallorca.
With a wide range of international, bilingual, and Spanish options, families have the flexibility to find a school that suits their child’s needs, future plans, and lifestyle.
Combined with Palma’s exceptional quality of life, it’s easy to see why so many international families choose to make this part of Mallorca their home.
*Photo credit to Agora Portals International School
