Aloha College Marbella vs NovaSchool Sunland International

	A Aloha College Marbella Malaga, Spain	N NovaSchool Sunland International Malaga, Spain
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €4,825 - 18,940	Fees / year €6,706 - 7,742
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)	Curriculum British Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels
Pupils	Pupils 840	Pupils 749
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Spanish
Opened	Opened 1982	Opened 2001
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Urb. El Angel, Nueva Andalucia, 29660 Marbella, Málaga, Spain. The campus is in Urbanización El Ángel, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella.	Location Located at Crta. De Cártama Estación a Pizarra, 29580, Cártama Estación, Spain, in the Málaga region, the Sunland campus spans 40,000 square meters of facilities surrounded by countryside. The catchment area covers the suburbs around the metropolitan area of Nueva Aljaima; the school operates nine bus routes across Málaga within about 30 km, with journeys of 45–60 minutes. A bus monitor accompanies students on each route, and routes serve Alhaurín de la Torre, Alhaurín El Grande, Benalmádena, Cártama, Coín, Málaga, Pizarra and Torremolinos.
Stages	Stages Early Years (Nursery & Reception, ages 3–4); Primary (Key Stage 1 & Key Stage 2, ages 5–10); Secondary (Key Stage 3 & Key Stage 4, ages 11–15); Sixth Form (IB Diploma & A-Levels, ages 16–18).	Stages Foundation (3–4 years old); Primary/Key Stage 2 (5–10 years); Secondary/Key Stage 3 and 4 (11–16 years, IGCSE); Sixth Form/KS5 (17–18 years, pre-university with AS/A Levels).
School type	School type International school	School type Private school in Málaga with a British Curriculum and the possibility to obtain a dual British-Spanish degree.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support SEN is supported within the mainstream classroom; families must provide full written documentation of any known SEN at registration.	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation British international education (UK curriculum elements such as English National Curriculum and IPC).	Country affiliation —
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure Primary day runs 9:00–15:40 (with supervision from 8:30 and until 16:00); Secondary day runs 9:00–16:00.	School day structure Preschool and Reception: 9:30am–4:00pm; Years 1–6: 9:30am–4:15pm; Years 7–13: 9:30am–4:30pm. Morning Classroom is offered from 7:45am.
Bus service details	Bus service details Yes. Supervised bus routes from Fuengirola and Estepona.	Bus service details Sunland provides transport with 9 bus routes across Málaga within a 30 km radius; journey times range from 45 to 60 minutes; a bus monitor accompanies students on each route and the routes include Alhaurín de la Torre, Alhaurín El Grande, Benalmádena, Cártama, Coín, Málaga, Pizarra and Torremolinos.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Admissions Prepayments - Application fee (non‑refundable): EUR 200, payable on submission of the application. - Reservation (firm offer) fee: EUR 2,500, payable on acceptance of a firm offer and deducted from the first invoice. - Waiting list holding fee: EUR 1,250 — refundable only if a place is not offered; once a firm place is offered this becomes part of the reservation fee and non‑refundable. - Administration fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): EUR 195, payable with the first invoice. - Inscription (enrolment) fee for new pupils / re‑enrolment after an absence (one‑time, non‑refundable): 1st child EUR 3,000; 2nd child EUR 2,250; 3rd child EUR 1,800. - Chromebook (required for all students joining Secondary): EUR 599, payable with the first invoice; the device is supplied and configured by the school and is assigned to the pupil. Tuition fees — Primary (per term and annual total) Invoices and payments are issued termly. Payment due dates shown in the schedule are: 1st Term due by 15/06/2025; 2nd Term due by 01/12/2025; 3rd Term due by 02/03/2026. (Below each line shows the three term amounts followed by the calculated annual total.) - Nursery (Half Day): 1st Term EUR 1,925; 2nd Term EUR 1,450; 3rd Term EUR 1,450. Annual total: EUR 4,825. - Nursery (Full): 1st Term EUR 3,115; 2nd Term EUR 2,345; 3rd Term EUR 2,345. Annual total: EUR 7,805. - Reception: 1st Term EUR 3,495; 2nd Term EUR 2,620; 3rd Term EUR 2,620. Annual total: EUR 8,735. - Year 1: 1st Term EUR 3,805; 2nd Term EUR 2,850; 3rd Term EUR 2,850. Annual total: EUR 9,505. - Year 2: 1st Term EUR 3,895; 2nd Term EUR 2,930; 3rd Term EUR 2,930. Annual total: EUR 9,755. - Year 3: 1st Term EUR 4,240; 2nd Term EUR 3,180; 3rd Term EUR 3,180. Annual total: EUR 10,600. - Year 4: 1st Term EUR 4,345; 2nd Term EUR 3,265; 3rd Term EUR 3,265. Annual total: EUR 10,875. - Year 5: 1st Term EUR 4,575; 2nd Term EUR 3,440; 3rd Term EUR 3,440. Annual total: EUR 11,455. - Year 6: 1st Term EUR 4,630; 2nd Term EUR 3,470; 3rd Term EUR 3,470. Annual total: EUR 11,570. Tuition fees — Secondary (per term / invoice and annual total) Invoices and payments are made termly for Years 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12; Years 11 and 13 are invoiced twice a year. Payment due dates shown in the schedule are: 1st Term / 1st Invoice due by 15/06/2025; 2nd Term due by 01/12/2025; 3rd Term due by 02/03/2026; second invoice for Year 11/13 due by 05/01/2026. (Below each line shows the invoice/term amounts followed by the calculated annual total.) - Year 7: 1st Term EUR 5,290; 2nd Term EUR 3,975; 3rd Term EUR 3,975. Annual total: EUR 13,240. - Year 8: 1st Term EUR 5,430; 2nd Term EUR 4,075; 3rd Term EUR 4,075. Annual total: EUR 13,580. - Year 9: 1st Term EUR 5,520; 2nd Term EUR 4,140; 3rd Term EUR 4,140. Annual total: EUR 13,800. - Year 10: 1st Term EUR 5,980; 2nd Term EUR 4,495; 3rd Term EUR 4,495. Annual total: EUR 14,970. - Year 12: 1st Term EUR 7,495; 2nd Term EUR 5,630; 3rd Term EUR 5,630. Annual total: EUR 18,755. - Year 11: 1st Invoice EUR 7,640; 2nd Invoice EUR 7,640. Annual total: EUR 15,280. - Year 13: 1st Invoice EUR 9,470; 2nd Invoice EUR 9,470. Annual total: EUR 18,940. Optional services and recurring extras - School lunch (Primary): Nursery–Year 2 — 1st Term EUR 615; 2nd Term EUR 450; 3rd Term EUR 440. Years 3–6 — 1st Term EUR 650; 2nd Term EUR 480; 3rd Term EUR 470. - School lunch (Secondary): Year 7–10 & 12 — 1st Term EUR 650; 2nd Term EUR 480; 3rd Term EUR 470. Year 11 — 1st Invoice EUR 795; 2nd Invoice EUR 795. Year 13 — 1st Invoice EUR 700; 2nd Invoice EUR 700. - School bus (priced by geographical zone): for Years 7–10 & 12 the per‑term amounts are: Zone A EUR 480 / EUR 350 / EUR 350; Zone B EUR 605 / EUR 445 / EUR 445; Zone C EUR 685 / EUR 505 / EUR 505; Zone D EUR 760 / EUR 560 / EUR 560. Bus charges for Years 11 and 13 are invoiced per the two‑invoice schedule with amounts varying by zone (see the invoice schedule). - Chromebook: Secondary students EUR 599 (one‑off, payable with first invoice). - The tuition and optional service fees listed include accident insurance, textbooks and exercise books, subject materials and all compulsory curricular day trips and enrichment events unless otherwise noted. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices are issued according to the term/ invoice schedule shown above (1st term/invoice in mid‑June; further invoices in December, March or early January for two‑invoice year groups). - For Years 7–10 and 12 invoicing is termly; Years 11 and 13 are invoiced twice a year. - A surcharge of 5% is imposed on fees not fully paid by the due date stated on the invoice. - Inscription, administration and Chromebook charges are payable with the first invoice or as stated in the enrolment prepayment terms. Boarding - Aloha College Marbella operates as a day school; boarding is not provided. Refunds and non‑refundable items - Application fee (EUR 200): non‑refundable. - Reservation fee (EUR 2,500): non‑refundable once a firm offer is accepted (the reservation fee is deducted from the first invoice). - Waiting list holding fee (EUR 1,250): refundable only if a place is not subsequently offered; once a firm place is offered it becomes part of the reservation fee and is non‑refundable. - Administration fee and inscription fee: one‑time and non‑refundable, payable with the first invoice. - Other refund entitlements for tuition after a pupil has started are governed by the school's enrolment and payment terms (specific conditions such as refunds on withdrawal or term‑time changes are set out in the school's policy documents). A 5% late payment surcharge applies for late settlement. Fee payment notes and options - Fees are invoiced in EUR according to the billing schedule above; invoices must be settled by the due dates shown. - The published fee documents present the invoicing schedule, fee amounts and the late‑payment surcharge. For the available payment channels (for example bank transfer, card payment via the parent portal or other methods) families should use the school's invoicing and parent‑portal arrangements when settling invoices. Other practical costs - Uniform: the school operates a second‑hand uniform shop and maintains uniform guidance; costs for new uniform items are not listed in the fee schedule and vary by item and supplier. - External optional activities (some trips, examinations, external providers or certain co‑curricular items) may carry separate charges where explicitly stated. - The fee documents include details of compulsory items (textbooks, subject materials) in the fee inclusions; additional discretionary costs (private tuition, optional external programmes, non‑compulsory trips) are billed separately where applicable.	Fee details Enrolment / Application fees - Enrolment fee (renewal for returning students): EUR 433. - Enrolment fee (new students, one-off at admission): EUR 630. - Timing: New students pay the enrolment fee at the time of enrolment; returning students pay the renewal enrolment fee in a single payment between 1 and 5 March each year. A commitment to remain for the full school year applies; if a pupil is withdrawn after 31 July a penalty of EUR 1,500 is charged immediately. Tuition fees by year group (annual amounts) - Preschool and Reception: EUR 6,280 per year. - Year 1 – Year 2: EUR 6,550 per year. - Year 3 – Year 4: EUR 6,970 per year. - Year 5 – Year 6: EUR 7,240 per year. - Year 7 – Year 9: EUR 7,520 per year. - Year 10 – Year 11: EUR 7,580 per year. (Note: Year 11 follows a different instalment schedule; see billing schedule.) - Sixth Form (Years 12–13): EUR 7,632 per year. - Canteen: the annual tuition figures above include the school canteen service valued at EUR 1,870 per year. Per term and per-instalment breakdown (by year group) Note: the school operates monthly instalments; for clarity the figures below show (A) a per-term estimate (annual divided by 3) and (B) the regular monthly instalment amount based on the school's billing schedules. - Preschool & Reception - Per term (annual ÷ 3): EUR 2,093.33. - Monthly instalment (10 monthly instalments, Sep–Jun): EUR 628.00. - Year 1 – Year 2 - Per term: EUR 2,183.33. - Monthly instalment (10 months): EUR 655.00. - Year 3 – Year 4 - Per term: EUR 2,323.33. - Monthly instalment (10 months): EUR 697.00. - Year 5 – Year 6 - Per term: EUR 2,413.33. - Monthly instalment (10 months): EUR 724.00. - Year 7 – Year 9 - Per term: EUR 2,506.67. - Monthly instalment (10 months): EUR 752.00. - Year 10 – Year 11 - Per term: EUR 2,526.67. - Monthly instalment for Year 10 (10 months): EUR 758.00. - Monthly instalment for Year 11 (9 instalments, Sep–May): EUR 842.22. - Sixth Form (Years 12–13) - Per term: EUR 2,544.00. - Monthly instalment (9 instalments, Sep–May): EUR 848.00. Billing schedule and payment terms - Regular billing method: fees are collected by direct debit. Monthly direct-debit collections run from the 1st to the 5th of each month. For most year groups payments are taken over ten monthly instalments (September–June). Year 11 and Sixth Form instalments are collected over nine monthly instalments (September–May). - Early-payment discounts for full-year payments: a 4% reduction applies to full-year payments made before 30 June; a 2% reduction applies to full-year payments made before 5 September. - The annual school services and extracurricular services are contracted on an annual basis. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable; the school operates as a day school and offers day services only (transport, morning care, canteen, etc.). Other costs and optional services - Two-way school transport service (annual): EUR 1,850 per year (two-way service; subject to annual enrolment and deadlines). - Morning service (aula matinal) from 07:45: EUR 65 per month (the school lists a morning-care charge in its rates information). - Public/external examination fees (Years 11, Sixth Form and Checkpoint): charged separately and vary by subject. - Textbooks and materials: textbooks are to be purchased by parents; a book service is available from Preschool to Year 9. School materials (stationery, project materials, etc.) are purchased by parents. - Uniforms: compulsory for all pupils from Preschool through Year 13; uniforms are purchased from the school uniform shop (on-site and online). - Canteen: included within the annual tuition package (included value EUR 1,870). Additional optional activities, trips and overnight immersion projects (Novaschool Nature Classroom) may incur separate charges when applicable. Discounts and family reductions - Third and subsequent children from the same family receive a 44% discount on school tuition fees (this discount excludes the annual canteen amount of EUR 1,870, which remains payable). - Specific enrollment plans and other special discounts or agreements may be available under the school's special fees / enrollment plans. Refunds and withdrawal charges - Enrolment and fee commitments: enrolment is subject to a commitment to remain for the whole school year. If a pupil is withdrawn after 31 July a penalty of EUR 1,500 is charged immediately. (The school's published rates specify this withdrawal penalty.) - Public/external exam fees and certain trip charges are billed separately and are not necessarily refundable; specific refund conditions for trips, services or exam fees are applied according to the terms for each service. Payment methods and options - Regular recurring payments are collected by direct debit on the 1st–5th of each month. - Full-year payments are accepted and qualify for the stated early-payment discounts when paid by the deadlines listed. - Additional services (transport, morning care, exams, trips, books, uniforms) are charged separately and are payable according to the school's invoicing for those services.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The school has a uniform. A second-hand uniform shop is run by the Aloha Parents Society.	Uniform requirement Uniform is mandatory for Preschool through Year 13. All uniform parts are sold at the school uniform store; socks, tights and footwear must be dark (brown or black).
Food options	Food options On-site catering provides nutritious meals prepared daily by the in-house team. Dietary requirements are fully accommodated, with vegetarian, gluten-free and lactose-free options. From Monday to Friday, hot lunches and healthy break-time snacks are provided. Two dining spaces serve over 1000 individuals daily, and the School Food Committee involves students in shaping menus.	Food options The School Dining Room offers meals cooked in its own kitchen following the Mediterranean diet, with menus adapted to suit dietary requirements and ages.
House system	House system Pupils are grouped into Houses and earn House points across school life. A House points system recognises student contributions, with annual or termly House winners (e.g., Wolves).	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Fundación Aloha College is a not-for-profit foundation governed by a Board of Trustees. The Board includes parent Governors and sets the long-term vision, with the Foundation supervised by the Protectorado de la Junta de Andalucía and compliance with Law 50/2002.	Governance and ownership The school is part of the Novaschool Educational Group, which operates four private schools in Malaga, Granada and Almería, and five Nursery Schools in Malaga, Granada and Lanzarote.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school offers a British international education for students aged 3 to 18. From Early Years to Year 6, the English National Curriculum is followed with the International Primary Curriculum. In Years 10–11, students prepare for IGCSEs. In Sixth Form (Years 12–13), they can choose between the International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma) or the International A-Level programme.	Curriculum details Novaschool Sunland International follows a British International Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18, with an adapted programme in courses equivalent to Spanish Secondary and Baccalaureate that allows students to obtain IGCSEs and A Levels through Cambridge and to homologate their studies to the Spanish university system. Foundation starts at age 3 (Preschool) and ends at age 4 (Reception); a bilingual Infant School, Novaschool Baby Sunland, supports early English learning. Key Stage 2 (ages 5-10) covers Years 1-6, Key Stage 3 and 4 (ages 11-16) provide IGCSEs, and Sixth Form (ages 17-18) follows the Cambridge International Examinations for AS/A Levels. The British curriculum is aligned with Spanish ministry requirements and the school enables access to both Spanish and international universities. The campus has 40,000 square meters of facilities surrounded by countryside.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Average class size: Years 7–11, 16 pupils; Years 12–13, 10 pupils.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results 2024 Exam Results: the school achieved a 100% pass rate across IB, A-Level and IGCSE examinations. In the IB programme, the average score was 35.56 points, with nine students exceeding 40. In A-Level, 31% of examinations were awarded A* to A, with a 100% pass rate. In IGCSE, 93% of examinations were graded 4–9, with 46% achieving 7–9, and all early-entry Spanish candidates earning top grades (8–9). 2025 Exam Results: published with continued strong achievements.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression 96% of the 2024 cohort progressed to their first-choice universities. 17 graduates pursued UK universities including Oxford, Manchester, Edinburgh and Bristol. About 69% studied abroad in the US, Canada, Europe and beyond. 77% chose Arts and Humanities degrees and 23% pursued STEM fields.	Higher education progression Sixth Form follows the Cambridge International Examinations curriculum, obtaining AS / A Levels. Students decide whether to pursue Spanish or foreign universities, with study plans adapted in Years 12 and 13 to their future goals. The school also hosts UNITOUR university fairs in Málaga to support higher education progression.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning PSHEE supports students from Year 1 to Year 13, equipping them with knowledge, understanding and life skills to lead healthy, happy lives and to become confident, responsible global citizens. The programme is tailored to reflect the needs of our students, the ethos of the school and the context of our international community. It is delivered by a dedicated team of trained staff. Lessons are supported by the Emotional Intelligence (EQ) programme, which nurtures resilience, empathy, focus and mindfulness. Through a spiral curriculum, students develop emotional literacy, self-esteem, healthy relationships, decision-making, risk awareness, financial understanding, personal responsibility and resilience, with regular parent workshops.	Social & emotional learning The school develops social and emotional learning by emphasising empathy, emotions and sociability in Key Stage 2.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Aloha College Marbella identifies and supports students with SEND through an early identification approach across both Primary and Secondary. Learning support is embedded across all teaching, with a whole-school approach and SEND coordinators who work closely with parents and the student to remove barriers to learning. A four-part cycle—Assess, Plan, Do, Review—drives the development and review of support, with Learning Plans and Individual Education Plans and regular progress discussions. Where appropriate, external professionals such as Educational Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists or medical professionals may be involved, with cooperation from parents. English as an additional language is addressed within the SEND framework; lack of English competence alone is not treated as SEND, and where ESL progress is slow other educational needs are considered; the school may advise external provision if needed.	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English is the language of instruction; non-native English speakers must provide evidence of their English level as part of the application. Spanish is taught as a second language. English as an additional language is recognised within the SEND framework; lack of English competence should not be equated with learning difficulties, and when ESL progress is slow other educational needs are considered; language support is planned as part of the student's overall education.	English as an additional language The Foundation Stage learns in English at an academic level, establishing the English language basis for the curriculum.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Pastoral care at ACM is a recognised area of excellence with Beacon Status from COBIS. Every student is valued and pastoral support is tailored to meet each child's needs, with the aim of equipping them to thrive in and beyond the classroom. The approach emphasises emotional security, empathy, resilience and a positive sense of self as essential to sustaining mental health. Students are supported to become confident, autonomous and socially responsible members of a diverse, compassionate community, with strong collaboration between staff and families. The Medical Centre is staffed by a full-time on-site nurse, and the school works with local doctors and paramedics for more serious concerns.	Mental wellbeing PSHE assemblies focus on health and wellbeing; PSHE lessons have been updated to be more engaging and diverse.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The Admissions Policy includes safeguarding procedures, with the safeguarding lead responsible for requesting information from a pupil's previous school to check for safeguarding issues. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, with open collaboration between families and staff to maintain a safe school community. The on-site medical and pastoral provisions support safeguarding in daily practice.	Safeguarding Safeguarding Policy exists and is listed among school policies.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Campus spans 29,000 m², with 17,500 m² dedicated to state-of-the-art buildings. Each classroom averages 55 m². Six Science Laboratories and three Computer Labs support practical learning, with dedicated Sixth Form study areas. A three-floor Multimedia Space houses the Secondary Library, the Literature and Chess clubs, and hosts regular talks. Dining services provide nutritious meals in two dining spaces for over 1,000 people daily, with an outdoor dining area refurbished in 2024. IT and technology are integrated with Google Classroom and interactive smartboards in every classroom.	Facilities overview Novaschool Sunland International is situated in a countryside estate of over 40,000 square meters to the northwest of Málaga, in the heart of the Guadalhorce valley. It is surrounded by nature and the buildings blend into the environment while offering the facilities required by a high-level education centre. The school benefits from good communications and is easily accessible from the main towns and cities along the coast. The Andalucian Technology Park and Málaga can be reached in only a few minutes, and Marbella, Benalmádena, Fuengirola and other coastal areas are less than 30 minutes away. The primary and secondary schools share the same campus, though the buildings are separate, with most secondary classes taking place in the building near the swimming pool for a calm, independent learning environment.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities FIFA-certified Football Pitch: 2,650 m² artificial turf field. Outdoor Gym and Recreational Areas. Multipurpose Sports Pavilion includes a rooftop court, gym, and a fully equipped stage for cultural events.	Sports facilities Novaschool Sunland International has a swimming pool, a sports area, a football pitch, a basketball pitch, a volleyball court and a cross-country circuit.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Six Science Laboratories; Three Computer Labs with access to over 1,300 devices (including 250 PCs, 700 Chromebooks, and 160 iPads). Dedicated Sixth Form Study Areas. Three-Floor Multimedia Space housing the Secondary Library, Literature and Chess clubs, and regular talks. IT & Technology integrated throughout with Google Classroom and interactive smartboards in every classroom.	Academic facilities The school has a secondary building, a secondary laboratory, a WC block, a primary building, a main building, a music room, a multipurpose room, offices/other, a maintenance workshop, a swimming pool room, a sports storage, a foundation building and a café.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Drama Club stages high-caliber theatrical productions each year. Literature and Chess clubs, and regular talks hosted in the Secondary Library.	Extra curricular facilities This academic year at Novaschool Sunland International we have a wide range of extracurricular activities. These activities are the perfect complement to the academic training of our students. We have a team of highly qualified professionals to develop these activities. In addition, the fact that our students carry out their extracurricular activities during school hours and in the school facilities is an added bonus.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Founded in 1982 by six visionary teachers and a group of parents as a not-for-profit initiative, Aloha College Marbella has grown into a leading international school. The school was among the first in Spain to offer the International Baccalaureate, and in 2004 a new Secondary School building doubled its capacity. What started as a small school with 210 students has grown to over 900 students on a 27,000 m² campus. The campus includes seven science laboratories, three computer suites, two libraries, four art studios, and a dedicated Music Department with a performance hall and drama studio. Not-for-profit status means every surplus is reinvested into the school, enhancing facilities, integrating technologies, and supporting staff development, while maintaining a caring, inclusive atmosphere.	History The school is part of the Novaschool Educational Group, which has more than 20 years of teaching experience. The group operates four private schools in Malaga, Granada and Almeria, and five nursery schools in Malaga, Granada and Lanzarote.
Community	Community Aloha College Marbella has an international community with over 50 nationalities represented, fostering cultural diversity and global mindedness. An active alumni network maintains strong ties with the school, with former students returning as parents and mentors. The ECO-School program embeds sustainability into curriculum and daily life through student-led initiatives, including a biodiverse garden, water conservation, beach clean-ups and recycling. Solidarity Actions engages students in local and global charitable causes, led by students and reinforced by staff and the wider community.	Community Novaschool Sunland International is a private British-curriculum school in Malaga for ages 3 to 18, with a bilingual Infant School in Malaga TechPark called Novaschool Baby Sunland. The school participates in community and charitable activities, including a Christmas toy collection campaign for families in Cartama, a World Children's Day event with UNICEF, and a Gran Recogida de Alimentos solidarity food drive. It also engages in higher education events such as UNITOUR university fairs at venues like NH Málaga. The campus supports active learning and nature-based education through on-site initiatives.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Aloha Parents Society is a group of volunteers who help organise many of our most loved events—like the Welcome Party, Christmas Bazaar, and Family Fun Day. They also run coffee mornings and a second-hand uniform shop. Their support is a big part of our community spirit.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Aloha College Marbella offers a vibrant co-curricular programme that includes STEM, sport, the arts, languages, wellbeing and social development. The programme provides a range of clubs and activities beyond the classroom, with sessions open to both Primary and Secondary students and delivered by staff and senior pupils. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is part of the enrichment offering and provides a framework across four sections to develop practical and leadership skills. Full details of the co-curricular offerings are available in the Co-Curricular Booklet.	Academic & intellectual —
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Music plays a vital role in school life. Music is taught by subject specialists in both Primary and Secondary, with clubs and ensembles outside timetabled lessons for beginners to advanced performers. The School Production, Pop Band and Singing rehearsals provide regular performance opportunities, and a new school band is formed each academic year. Drama offers student-led experiences with a large-scale production, a co-curricular drama club, and Theatre Thursdays in the Drama Studio, fostering creativity, confidence, leadership and collaboration.	Arts & creative —
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Languages are a focus within the co-curricular programme, with opportunities to engage in language-based clubs and activities beyond the classroom. The broader programme includes languages alongside sport, arts, STEM, games, wellbeing and social development, encouraging intercultural understanding and cross-age collaboration. Full details of the co-curricular offerings are provided in the Co-Curricular Booklet.	Cultural & language —
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Clubs span games, hobbies and social development, with sessions open to both Primary and Secondary students and led by staff and older pupils. Students across age groups collaborate in shared clubs, building friendships and teamwork beyond lessons. The programme provides experiences beyond the classroom to support informal interests and social connections.	Social & hobbies —
Community & service	Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is part of the co-curricular programme and includes volunteering as a core section, with students engaging in charity work, environmental projects and community support. The award also includes Skill, Physical Recreation and Adventurous Journey sections that foster practical service and teamwork. These activities contribute to social responsibility and community engagement as part of Be your best.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The co-curricular life offers leadership opportunities, including student leadership roles in drama and the presence of Student Arts Ambassadors. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award fosters leadership, planning and teamwork through its four sections (Skill, Volunteering, Physical Recreation and Adventurous Journey). Students also take on roles in clubs and events, delivering projects with staff support.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is a central part of wellbeing at Aloha College Marbella, with Football Club, Basketball Club, Athletics and Cross Country fostering fitness, teamwork and resilience. The sports programme aims to create inclusive opportunities for all students to participate and develop lifelong healthy habits. Wellbeing is supported across the co-curricular programme through performance arts, mindfulness and a variety of physical activities that promote confidence and belonging.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school has a wide range of extracurricular activities this academic year. These activities complement students' academic training. A team of highly qualified professionals develops these activities. Students participate in extracurricular activities during school hours and within school facilities.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision All classes are taught in English. Spanish is introduced from Nursery, and by Year 2 there are up to six hours of Spanish per week. From Year 7, French or German can be studied as an additional Modern Foreign Language. Spanish is offered as a First or Second language in Secondary and Sixth Form, with opportunities to study Spanish in IB or A-Level, including ab initio options for IB students.	Language provision English is the language of instruction in the Foundation Stage. The school has a Bilingual Infant School (Novaschool Baby Sunland).
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The language of instruction is English. Spanish is introduced from Nursery, and by Year 2 students have up to six hours of Spanish per week. From Year 7, French or German can be studied as an additional Modern Foreign Language. In the IB Diploma Programme, History is taught in Spanish, contributing to a bilingual diploma; many teachers are native English speakers, and Spanish mother tongue staff support language development.	Bilingual teaching Novaschool Sunland International operates a Bilingual Infant School. In the Foundation Stage, learning is conducted in English at an academic level.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs The language of instruction is English, with near- or perfect-immersion classroom settings to support English language development. From Reception onwards, students learn and communicate in English while taking part in an extensive Spanish program to develop their mother tongue. All Key Stage 3 students study a third language (French or German). In the IB Diploma Programme, Language A options include Spanish or English, and Language B options include English, Spanish, French and German.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Enquiry Stage. The process starts with an enquiry on the school's site. OpenApply provides access to upload documents, track progress, and complete the application. The most recent school reports, copies of passports (child and both parents), and proof of English proficiency for Year 1 and above (if English is not the first language) are requested. There are two application periods: 1 November–31 January for entry in the following academic year and 1 March–31 May; applications outside these periods may be considered subject to availability.	Admissions Novaschool Sunland International welcomes students between the ages of 3 and 18 whose needs can be served by the School, regardless of race, nationality or religion. Admission decisions are determined by the Principal in consultation with the Heads of Primary and Secondary and families seeking admission for their child(ren) and should make an appointment with them via the school secretary. It is sometimes possible and desirable by prior agreement for a prospective student to spend a day at the school. Admission is based on previous school reports and references and a statement from the parents and a self-written essay (for students aged 8 and above). The School seeks to admit students of good academic ability, with the appropriate motivation and self-disciplinary skills to participate in and benefit from an international education. All students are eligible for admission if it is believed that the school can meet their particular needs. Students with learning difficulties who meet the above criteria may apply. If a student requires the help of a support teacher, this will incur an additional charge that reflects the costs to the School. All children whose native language is not English and who are older than 10 years must take an oral and written assessment to determine whether they can be admitted. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support may be recommended and can be available to a limited number of students in the school but at additional cost to parents. Students are admitted throughout the year, subject to the availability of places. Applications are normally considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Siblings may be given priority provided the school is given at least two terms notice. Otherwise sibling admissions are subject to the availability of space in the class. Where a class is full a waiting list will be created, again on a strictly first-come basis. Placement in all classes will be made on the basis of the student's previous record and the assessment of the school. The initial placement is tentative, and the school may advise a change of class after the student's abilities have been thoroughly observed. Year level placement is normally always on the basis of chronological age. If a student is not placed in a year by age it is because his/her level of emotional and social development and/or academic ability does not warrant it. Year placement is the prerogative of the Principal upon consultation with staff, parents and others concerned.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist Waiting list. If no place is available, an offer is made on the waiting list. To accept, pay €1,250 within one week; this payment is refundable if no place is offered. If a place becomes available, the remaining €1,250 must be paid within 48 hours to secure the spot.	Waitlist Where a class is full a waiting list will be created, on a strictly first-come basis.
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