Aloha College Marbella is a non-profit, co-educational international school located in Nueva Andalucía, Marbella, Spain. Founded in 1982 by a group of teachers and families, it has since grown into one of Spain’s most respected private schools. The institution caters to over 900 students aged 3 to 18, representing more than 50 nationalities.
As a bilingual school, Aloha College Marbella integrates the British National Curriculum, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, International Primary Curriculum (IPC), IGCSEs, A Levels, and Spanish State Curriculum. This academic breadth, combined with a strong emphasis on creativity, sport, and community, has positioned it as a top choice for both expatriate and Spanish families.
History and Reputation
The school opened in 1982 with 210 pupils and quickly established a reputation for academic excellence and cultural diversity. By 2004, the expansion of the Secondary School campus doubled its capacity. In 2023, Forbes Spain ranked Aloha College fifth among the best schools in Spain, while the Financial Times reported in 2025 that it had become particularly popular with British expatriates, influencing local property values in Marbella.
Academic Curriculum
Aloha College Marbella provides multiple pathways to higher education:
- International Primary Curriculum (IPC) (ages 3–10)
- British Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A Levels
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme
- Spanish State Curriculum, enabling Spanish qualifications alongside international ones
This combination ensures students can access top universities worldwide, with bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.
Campus and Facilities
The purpose-built primary school and secondary school campuses include:
- Seven science laboratories
- Three computer suites
- Art and design studios
- Music and drama performance areas
- Two all-weather sports pitches
- Access to a golf academy, riding school, tennis courts, and swimming facilities nearby
The school also functions as an examination center for LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) and hosts visiting examiners from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.
Student Life and Activities
Students are encouraged to pursue personal growth beyond academics. Opportunities include:
- Performing Arts: Drama, theatre, and music examinations with LAMDA and ABRSM
- Sports: Football, tennis, swimming, athletics, and more
- Clubs: Languages, STEM, debating, and community service
- Duke of Edinburgh International Award from age 14 onwards
Governance and Leadership
The school is overseen by a Board of Trustees and continues to operate as a not-for-profit institution, reinvesting resources into campus improvements and student programs. The current Principal is Francisco Escobar, under whose leadership the school has maintained its strong academic reputation and student-centered ethos.
Data Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Aloha College Marbella |
| Location | Nueva Andalucía, Marbella, Spain |
| Founded | 1982 |
| Type | Non-profit, co-educational international school |
| Age Range | 3–18 |
| Enrollment | ~905 students |
| Curricula | British National Curriculum, IB Diploma, A Levels, IGCSE, IPC, Spanish Curriculum |
| Languages | English and Spanish (bilingual programs) |
| Religion | Non-denominational |
| Boarding | No |
| Annual Fees | €7,075 – €17,180 |
| Head of School | Francisco Escobar (Principal) |
| School Year | September – June |
| School Hours | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm |
| Uniform | Yes |
| Application Fee | €3,000 registration; lunch €1,390–1,470 per year |
| Student Nationalities | 57 total (22% British, 21% Spanish, 8% Russian, 8% Swedish, 4% Polish) |
| Website | aloha-college.com |
| Telephone | +34 952 814 133 |
| [email protected] |
