A Leading British School in Madrid, Pozuelo & the 1st British School in Spain 

The British School 

 

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85+ Years Shaping British International Education in Madrid


The British School - El Colegio Británico (formerly The British Council School) is a leading co-educational, bilingual day school in Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, for students aged 1–18. Established in 1940, we combine the academic rigour of the UK curriculum with the Spanish cultural foundations needed to thrive both locally and internationally.

Our students achieve outstanding results in both international and Spanish examinations, progressing to highly selective universities in Spain, the UK, Europe and the USA — including institutions ranked among the world’s top 10 in the QS World University Rankings.

Rated “Excellent in all areas” in four consecutive British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspections and ranked among the Best Schools in Spain by Forbes and ABC, our school offers a well-established, high-performing education. Sixth Form pathways include the bilingual BiBac® programme (El Colegio Británico – Bachillerato), designed to give students access to both Spanish and international university routes, alongside two globally recognised options: iA Levels (from 2026) and the IB Diploma (Candidate School 2027). 

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Why Choose Our Private School in Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid?


Spain's 1st British School

The former British Council School was established over 85 years ago as the first British school in Spain, combining long-standing tradition with a respected British educational framework and membership of NABSS (National Association of British Schools in Spain).

A Legacy of Excellence

4 consecutive “Excellent in all areas” BSO inspections and consistent ranking among Spain’s top schools reflect our commitment to high standards. We are also a White Rose Champion School (maths & science) and the only ABRSM Partner School in Spain for outstanding music provision.

Real-World Readiness

Students gain practical experience for their future endeavours through Year 11 work shadowing, leadership and entrepreneurship programmes, STEM projects, and expert university and careers guidance. Opportunities to earn certifications in 5 languages further expand their global pathways.

Brilliant Student Outcomes

Students at our bilingual school in Pozuelo achieve exceptional results in British and Spanish examinations, earning “Top in the World” awards for IGCSE exams. Graduates progress to leading universities, including Cambridge, MIT, Stanford, and top Spanish institutions.

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An International Education in Madrid That Turns Ambition into Achievement 


Outstanding Academic Performance

Students at our private school in Pozuelo achieve exceptional academic outcomes, regularly receiving “Top in the World”, “Top in Europe”, and “Top in Spain” awards in Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSE examinations. These distinctions recognise extraordinary performance across subjects including Chemistry, Physics, Economics, Biology, Mandarin, Spanish Language and Literature, and History. Our pupils also stand out in national and international science and mathematics Olympiads, showcasing their exemplary preparation.
 

Leading University Destinations

Strong academic results open doors to leading universities worldwide. 100% of our graduates progress to higher education, joining prestigious institutions such as Cambridge, Imperial College London, UCL, LSE, Yale, Stanford, UCLA, Georgia Tech, and MIT, as well as top Spanish universities including Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Universidad de Navarra, IE, and ESADE.

Global Opportunities and Scholarships

Beyond academics, many of our graduates stand out across the arts and sports, receiving full sports scholarships to universities in the United States and invitations to perform at major cultural events.

Impressive Alumni Success

Our alumni go on to succeed across business leadership, science and research, specialised engineering, medicine, law, the arts, aviation, and public life. Among them is Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz, one of the school’s most distinguished alumni, reflecting the breadth of talent developed within our community. 

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What Sets Our Private School in Pozuelo Apart

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Proven Academic Pathways


Families choose The British School of Madrid for its established reputation, strong academic outcomes, and proven pathways to leading universities worldwide. Our motto, “Best of Both Worlds,” reflects the balance families seek: rigorous British academics alongside strong Spanish educational foundations.

A dedicated team of 10 university guidance counsellors supports students from Years 10 to 13, helping them make informed subject choices and prepare applications that stand out. Students receive tailored guidance for universities in Spain, the UK, the United States, and across Europe, including SAT preparation and Oxbridge interview support. Those applying to Spanish universities are guided through the PAU route, with many students achieving grades above 11, essential for highly competitive degree programmes.

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Immersion in Languages


At our international school in Pozuelo, English immersion begins at 12 months and continues throughout a student’s education. The British curriculum is delivered in English by native-speaking teachers, while Spanish curriculum elements ensure strong academic and cultural foundations in both languages.

Beyond bilingualism, pupils can develop fluency in up to 5 languages. French and German are introduced as part of the curriculum, with Chinese available as an extracurricular option. Students also prepare for recognised international certifications, including Cambridge English (FCE, CAE, CPE), DELF/DALF, Goethe, and Chinese language examinations.

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Enrichment and Practical Skills


Enrichment plays a central role at our private school in Pozuelo, with music as a key pillar. Students learn instruments from the early years through a structured programme, with opportunities to join ensembles, prepare for ABRSM and Rock School examinations, and perform regularly in both English and Spanish. Some of our students have progressed to advanced music studies and careers.

A wide range of activities allows students to explore their interests and hone talents, including robotics, Cine Club (scriptwriting, filming, editing), and Elite Golf programmes. Competitive sports teams take part in local and regional leagues, regularly bringing home trophies that showcase their teamwork, determination, and discipline. 

World-readiness is built through practical experience. In Year 11, students complete a four-day work shadowing placement in a professional environment, alongside leadership initiatives, entrepreneurship programmes, STEM and research projects, and public speaking opportunities — helping them connect their education to future pathways.

A Former British Council School


Many families still know us by our former name, the British Council School. Today, as The British School - El Colegio Británico, we carry forward a heritage of educational excellence that began with our inception.

Our private school in Pozuelo has educated generations of students and played an important role in the development of international education in Madrid. At its core is a commitment to exceptional teaching, strong academic standards, and a community built on the values of loyalty, flexibility, care, resilience, and challenge.

This enduring legacy is reflected in a rigorous academic programme, excellent pastoral care, and a clear focus on preparing students for life beyond school. For families, it provides the reassurance that their child is in safe hands throughout their educational journey — and is why we are widely recognised as one of the best schools in Pozuelo and Madrid.

Academic Stages at The British School of Madrid


From Early Years to Sixth Form, students at our private school in Pozuelo de Alarcon follow a carefully structured academic and personal journey.

Inspired Education Schools Lead Rankings Across Spain

Inspired schools continue to be recognised across Spain’s leading educational rankings, reflecting their commitment to academic excellence, innovation, international outlook and the delivery of a well-rounded education that prepares pupils for success in a global world.

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School in Pozuelo ranked in Forbes
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Among the best schools in Madrid according to ABC.

Extraordinary Outcomes 


We understand that when parents are searching for the best schools in Pozuelo, they want proof, not promises. Through outstanding teaching and personalised support, pupils at The British School of Madrid achieve exceptional academic results in both international and Spanish examinations. IGCSE outcomes consistently surpass UK GCSE averages, while recognition from Universidad Complutense highlights the school’s sustained excellence in EVAU performance over the years.

BiBac® Academic Results 2025

7.91

 Average university entrance grade (based on 60% BiBac and 40% PAU)

97.6%

Percentage of students who passed PAU

13.825

Highest PAU grade (out of 14)

63.9%

Percentage of students with a grade above 11 in PAU

IGCSE Academic Results 2025

55%

Scored A*- A

 

74%

Scored A* - B

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An Expansive, Purpose-Built Campus in Pozuelo


Located in Prado de Somosaguas, Pozuelo de Alarcón, our campus spans more than 26,000m². With dedicated, purpose-designed spaces supporting learning and development at every stage, our British school offers an environment where students aged 12 months to 18 years can thrive.

Our Early Years facilities have been fully renovated following a significant investment by Inspired Education, creating bright, stimulating spaces tailored for our youngest learners.

With 14,000m² of sports facilities, students enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle, with access to football pitches, multi-sport courts, and gyms for each academic stage. Creative expression flourishes in our art studios, high-tech music rooms, and a 1,200m² professional theatre with seating for 300. Together, these spaces form the foundation of a forward-thinking international education, supporting students in realising their potential.

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An Inspired School in Madrid


The British School - El Colegio Británico is part of Inspired Education, a leading global group of premium schools. For families, this means students benefit from the expertise, resources, and opportunities of a worldwide network, while still enjoying a school experience rooted in Madrid and connected to the local community. Opportunities include global exchanges, international camps, and collaborations with other schools across the group.

Inspired schools are built around 3 pillars: academic excellence, sport, and the performing and creative arts. This balanced approach ensures students develop intellectually, physically, and creatively. At our private school in Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid, this philosophy is reflected in daily life through ambitious academic programmes, competitive sport, meaningful performance opportunities, and a strong focus on life skills.

Learn More About Inspired

Outstanding teaching begins with deep subject knowledge and exceptional academic preparation. At our international school in Pozuelo, students from the early years through to Sixth Form are taught by highly qualified teachers who are specialists in their fields. Many of our teachers hold degrees from leading universities, including Oxford and other Russell Group institutions. 

As part of the Inspired Education Group, the school also benefits from a global network of exceptional teaching talent, as well as access to professional development opportunities and world-class academic resources, ensuring our teachers remain at the forefront of educational practice and deliver consistently strong results.

At our private school in Madrid, students receive expert advice on subject selection, university applications, and long-term career planning, helping them approach their next steps with confidence and clarity. With the support of the Inspired Education Group, our university and careers counselling programme provides personalised guidance, helping each student identify their strengths, interests, and future aspirations while securing places at their preferred universities. More than 90% of Inspired graduates gain admission to their first-choice universities worldwide, including leading institutions in the United Kingdom, the United States, Spain, and across Europe.

The British School of Madrid integrates innovative technology to enhance engagement and support academic success. Classrooms are equipped with modern digital resources designed to personalise learning, including AI-powered platforms that adapt to each student’s pace and learning style. These tools have already delivered strong results across other Inspired schools in Madrid.

As part of the Inspired global network, students at our private school in Pozuelo also have access to extensive online resources and opportunities to collaborate with peers at leading schools worldwide. Through virtual exchanges, shared projects, and international competitions, learners connect with students from diverse backgrounds. These experiences simulate real-world multinational workplaces while helping students broaden their horizons and develop valuable life skills.

Through the Inspired Global Exchange Programme, students at our British school in Madrid can experience life and learning at other outstanding Inspired schools around the world. These exchanges offer unique opportunities to study abroad at prestigious campuses in countries such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Belgium, New Zealand, Vietnam, and beyond.

Whether participating in a short-term exchange of a few weeks or spending a full academic year overseas, students immerse themselves in new cultures, broaden their perspectives, and build meaningful international friendships. These experiences foster independence, adaptability, and global awareness — qualities that prepare them to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Students at our English school in Pozuelo are invited to participate in Inspired Global Camps, where learning extends far beyond the classroom. These immersive programmes combine sport, creativity, adventure, and academic enrichment, taking place at leading Inspired boarding schools around the world.

From improving language skills in the UK to exploring fashion in Milan, surfing in Portugal or taking part in marine adventures in the Bahamas, each camp offers a unique experience. Students return with new skills, lasting friendships, and unforgettable memories that support their personal growth and self-esteem.

 

Hear from Our Students


“They gave me everything I needed to study abroad, the support to study in the UK, or in the States or studying here in Spain. It was incredible.”

— Victoria, currently studying at Stanford University

“It was fundamental, it allowed me to apply in the US, I was on the waiting list at Harvard and Chicago. Having such a broad baccalaureate with so many languages meant you left very well prepared to enter wherever you wanted and to be able to choose where you wanted to go in different countries.”

— Ricardo, currently studying at Universidad Complutense

“I met teachers here who were really supportive and encouraged me a lot. I was encouraged to be ambitious.” 

— Isabel, currently studying at Cambridge University

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Looking for a top British education in Madrid that opens doors to future opportunities around the world? Get in touch with us and discover how we can help your child become the very best version of themselves.