Yes

We offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) to support your child if required. EAL support is designed to help new students access the mainstream curriculum from their very first day at ICS. This means they are taught English through academic lessons which have been adapted to meet their needs.

Spanish, French, German. The school's curriculum recognises the importance of a strong native language as a base for learning. International College Spain supports students in more than 20 mother tongue languages including Hebrew, Arabic, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, German, Italian and Portuguese, amongst others.

22

20

Yes

In Primary, ICS students use technology by providing iPads to each of our students in Grades 2 to 5, which are on loan for the academic year. Students and parents sign the Responsible Use Agreement (iPad/Digital Technology) which details key information. In Secondary, students adhere to the 'Bring Your Own Device Programme' from grades 6-12, and students are expected to bring an Apple laptop. Families are recommended to become familiar with the BYOD policy. These guidelines provide information on which laptop to purchase and a code for discounts with a known provider. The introduction of digital boards across the school this year marks a significant step forward in enhancing the learning experience for both students and teachers. These interactive boards provide a dynamic and versatile teaching tool, transforming traditional classroom settings into interactive, technology-driven learning environments.

Yes, we do. You can find more information about our Virtual School Experience on our website: https://www.nordangliaeducation.com/our-schools/madrid/curriculum-1/vse

IB Diploma, E-Assesments, MAP Testing in Primary.

ICS students consistently outperform global averages in the IB Diploma. The ICS Class of 2024 achieved an impressive 100% pass rate among the 92 candidates who completed the full IB Diploma, with an average score of 35.4 out of 45 points—significantly higher than the global average of 30.3 points. Notably, 20% of the graduating class scored 40 points or above, with the highest individual score reaching an outstanding 44 points.

Yes, they do.

Primary Homework:
At ICS, homework is designed to support student learning and promote independence. Assignments are communicated via email or a subscribed platform; parents should contact the teacher for specific queries.

Key practices include:
- Reinforcing classroom learning through routines in language, math, and units of inquiry.
- Encouraging daily reading to foster a love for books.
- Differentiating tasks to meet individual student needs.
- Promoting independent completion of homework without parental assistance.

Suggested daily maximum homework times:
- Infants: 10 minutes
- Grade 1: 15 minutes
- Grade 2: 25 minutes
- Grade 3: 35 minutes
- Grades 4–5: 45 minutes

For Spanish, a maximum of 20 minutes per week is recommended for all grades.

Secondary Homework:
In Secondary, homework expectations are structured to support learning and are communicated via ManageBac.

- MYP: Students follow a homework timetable set by the Grade Level Leader. On non-homework evenings, students should revise classwork.
- DP: Homework, revision, or Internal Assessments are assigned after nearly every lesson.

Guidelines for time spent on homework:
- Grade 6–8: 2–3 subjects per night, 30 minutes per subject.
- Grade 9–10: 12–15 hours per week.
- Grade 11–12: 18–20 hours per week.

9 out of 10 students gain admission to their first-choice university, with 20% securing places at institutions ranked among the world’s top 50.

Yes, we do. Our team includes over 10 specialists across the school that are dedicated to supporting the delivery of both the EAL (English as an Additional Language) Programme and the LS (Learning Support) Programme.

The EAL programme and its operating principles are based on up-to-date research in language acquisition and are managed by the Heads of EAL Departments in Primary and Secondary. The methodologies used include scheduled EAL classes, in-class support, and small group (or individual) EAL lessons where students are withdrawn from mainstream classes. These are all carried out in conjunction with the student’s teachers and tutors.

The Learning Support department serves Primary and Secondary students with special learning requirements. It provides training for teachers, advice for parents and limited individual and small group support lessons.

While we do not have a specific programme for gifted children, we ensure their needs are supported through differentiated learning in the classroom, providing opportunities for extension and enrichment activities.

Yes. Students have access to two key professionals: the Head of Safeguarding, who also serves as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for the school, and our School Counsellor. Together, they provide comprehensive support for students' well-being and can facilitate referrals to external educational psychologists when necessary.

Yes. CAT4 Assessments from Grades 2-11.

CAT4 are an online assessment tool designed to provide a broader, more rounded view of each child, their potential and how they learn. Tasks involve thinking about shapes and patterns (Non-Verbal Reasoning), words (Verbal Reasoning), numbers (Quantitative Reasoning) and some questions are answered by mentally generating and transforming visual images (Spatial Ability). Each section of the assessment includes introductory information with practice examples, to familiarise students with the style and format of the questions. The duration of the assessment is approximately 1/2 hours.

Not always. Often based on certain grade availability and demands.

There is no deadline. As ICS is an international school, we have rolling admissions which means that we can admit students at any point during the school year and the educational team will help new students to catch up with the academic content in order to achieve successful outcomes.

Yes

8:45 a.m.

4:10 p.m.

No.

Yes, we provide various school bus routes for families, available at both the start and end of the school day.

Yes. The school cafeteria offers healthy and balanced meals to support children nutritional needs.

Yes, we have different menus available including vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free, poke station, mediterranean food, and many more.

No, students are only required to wear a uniform for Physical and Health Education lessons.

ICS offers a comprehensive Extracurricular Activities Programme featuring over 60 diverse activities, clubs, sports. These opportunities are available both during the school day and after school.

At ICS, physical activities and sports are integral to the curriculum:
- PYP: Focus on fundamental motor skills through games, gymnastics, dance, athletics, and team sports.
- MYP: Emphasis on skill development and healthy lifestyles with sports like basketball, football, volleyball, badminton, and athletics.
- DP: Sports and physical activities are encouraged through CAS, promoting fitness and well-being.

The programme fosters fitness, teamwork, and lifelong healthy habits.

Yes, we provide students with opportunities to participate in both local and regional sports competitions. Additionally, through the Nord Anglia Education Sports Competition Programme, students can attend regional events across Europe. These include competitions in sports such as volleyball, basketball, and football, held in collaboration with our sister schools.

We are fortunate to offer a diverse range of high-quality facilities across our campus, including the Primary and Secondary Libraries, a School Auditorium, an indoor gymnasium, four outdoor basketball courts, two primary playgrounds, one tennis court, an one outdoor running track. Additionally, we have a Design Lab, two Drama Studios, a Dance Studio, seven fully equipped Science Labs, dedicated Art Classrooms, four soundproof Music Rooms, and two DP Study Rooms. These facilities create a vibrant and enriching environment for learning, creativity, and physical activity.

An indoor gymnasium, four outdoor basketball courts, two primary playgrounds, one outdoor running track, and a tennis court.

International College Spain is an international community school that is committed to giving every child a truly global learning experience. It is the only school in Madrid to offer all three IB programmes in English.
The philosophy of the school is to provide students with a high quality international education which places a strong emphasis on fostering respect for other people’s identity and culture. This is achieved through the provision of a challenging curriculum which develops critical, principled thinking within a positive learning environment and which addresses the students’ academic, social, emotional, physical, technological, aesthetic and moral needs. The school also promotes an active interest in learning, enabling students to acquire the skills, attitudes and qualifications necessary for them to become successful, responsible citizens.

At ICS, we tailor our approach to meet each child’s individual learning needs, helping them develop essential skills while nurturing their unique strengths. Through our comprehensive international programme, your child will:

Foster independence and self-discipline
Thrive in an atmosphere of mutual respect
Cultivate a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives and cultures
Progress towards the IB Diploma Programme, engaging with one of the most respected, learning-focused curricula globally
Our learning approach at ICS is:

Active: Engaging both mind and body to keep students stimulated
Fun: Using collaborative techniques to make learning enjoyable
Child-Centered: Empowering students to take ownership of their own learning
Rigorous: Upholding the highest academic standards to ensure excellence
This well-rounded approach ensures your child is prepared for success in their academic journey and beyond.