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Swiss siblings thrive in Barcelona's bilingual education system

Two worlds, one classroom: How a Swiss school in Barcelona helps expat kids stay connected to their roots. Their story reveals the power of bilingual learning.

The image shows an open book with a map of Barcelona on it. The book contains text and numbers,...
The image shows an open book with a map of Barcelona on it. The book contains text and numbers, providing detailed information about the city.

Swiss siblings thrive in Barcelona's bilingual education system

Luisa and Max have called Barcelona home for the past four years. The siblings attend the Swiss School Barcelona, where they study under the Swiss education system. Their experience reflects the school's unique blend of Swiss and Spanish academic traditions.

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is Spain's second-largest city with around 1.7 million residents. The Gràcia neighbourhood, where Luisa and Max live, is known for its vibrant community and cultural mix. Their school, the Swiss School Barcelona, caters to children of Swiss families living abroad, ensuring they follow the same curriculum as in Switzerland.

The school offers two diplomas: the Swiss *Matura* and the Spanish *Bachillerato*. Students learn five languages—German, Spanish, Catalan, English, and French—giving them a broad linguistic foundation. Luisa, who identifies as both Swiss and Spanish, benefits from this bilingual approach. The Swiss education system emphasises academic rigour and multilingualism. For families like Luisa and Max's, the school provides a way to maintain ties to Switzerland while embracing life in Barcelona.

Luisa and Max's education bridges two cultures, preparing them for futures in either country. The Swiss School Barcelona continues to serve expatriate families by combining Swiss academic standards with local integration. For now, the siblings remain rooted in Gràcia, balancing their dual identities in a city known for its diversity.

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