Programs

Bilingual Elementary School Model

Starting at age three, students gradually immerse themselves in English while maintaining Spanish instruction. During the first two years, they study entirely in English except for one daily Spanish module. From third through sixth grade, this shifts to 80% English and 20% Spanish, with languages alternating daily. The curriculum includes chess and coding through the “Wings for the Mind” program, while French and German begin in the third year—students later choose one to continue. Elementary education culminates in a group research project aligned with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme.

Middle Years Program at El Castillo Madrid

The school implements MYP (Middle Years Programme), emphasizing inquiry-based learning and conceptual thinking across eight disciplines: foreign languages, language and literature, social sciences, natural sciences, mathematics, arts, physical education, and design. Each receives at least 50 hours annually, though fourth and fifth graders may focus on six areas for greater flexibility. Community projects begin in the third and fourth years, while fifth graders complete a personal creative investigation that synthesizes their middle school experience.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Older students can pursue the IB Diploma in English or Spanish, which combines three core components—extended essay for independent research, theory of knowledge for critical thinking, and CAS (creativity, activity, service) encompassing arts, sports, and volunteering. Students select six subjects across different complexity levels: languages offer literature, linguistics, and classical languages; social sciences include business, economics, geography, politics, history, psychology, philosophy, and anthropology; natural sciences cover biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, design technology, and sports science. Mathematics ranges from foundational to advanced, while creative disciplines feature:

– Visual arts
– Music
– Theatre
– Dance
– Film

High School Program Options

Beyond IB, students can choose Spanish Bachillerato under LOMCE standards with three tracks—natural sciences, humanities and social sciences, or arts—sometimes integrating diploma program courses for an international dimension. The Dual Diploma allows simultaneous completion of Spanish Bachillerato (or the IB diploma) alongside an American High School Diploma. University counseling supports applications throughout Spain and abroad, including meetings with British university representatives and document preparation assistance.