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Virtus College The British Sixth Form

Spain, Madrid

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees €23,500 - 32,200
Ages 15 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 90
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Opened 2016
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, British Curriculum, Cambridge International AS Levels, Pearson Edexcel IGCSE
Taught languages English, French, Spanish
Typical class size 4
Strengths Sport, Academic Enrichment, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction

Virtus College The British Sixth Form is an independent Madrid school specialising in the A-Level stage for learners aged 16 to 18. It operates as a day school and is a partner of The Schools Trust, bringing A-Levels to Spain with a two-year programme that emphasises choice and progression. Students select four subjects from fifteen International A-Level options, studied in small classes of up to ten, with modular assessments across Year 12 and Year 13 and January and May exam series. Each pupil has a mentor guiding academic, career, personal development and wellbeing pathways. The campus in Alcobendas opened in 2023 as a purpose-built space with glass-panelled classrooms, science laboratories, digital library and quiet study zones, plus rooftop terraces and wellbeing areas. Enrichment courses complement the core curriculum, and a two-year roadmap supports university entry, including an Oxbridge & Ivy League Programme and access to residential accommodation for international students.

C. de la Salvia, 46, 28109 Alcobendas, Madrid, Spain

The Essentials

Virtus College The British Sixth Form has 90 pupils, typical class sizes of 4, instruction in English.

Location
Alcobendas, Madrid, Spain. Calle Salvia, 46, 28109 Alcobendas, Madrid. Located in Madrid's northern suburbs near La Moraleja, the campus is accessible by local transport.

Stages
Two-year A-Level program for Years 12 and 13 (ages 16–18).

Type
Independent British Sixth Form school in Madrid specialising exclusively in the A-Level stage; day school.

Additional learning support
Virtus provides highly personalised SEND provision. The SENCo produces an Individualised Education Plan (IEP) for students with diagnosed learning needs, with wrap-around support through academic teaching, mentoring and the wider curriculum.

Country affiliation
Affiliated with The Schools Trust (UK-based) as a chartered partner; operates in Madrid, Spain.

School day structure
School hours are 08:30–16:20, Monday to Friday.

Bus service
A school bus service is available; routes include Pozuelo, Aravaca, Boadilla del Monte, Majadahonda and Las Rozas to Virtus College (La Moraleja).
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
Residential accommodation offers premium housing in Madrid, combining comfort, safety and support. Modern fully furnished studio apartments with private bathrooms are located close to the school. Dedicated residential coordinators provide ongoing support; residences are independently managed by partner providers and include security, gym facilities, and common areas to foster a sense of community.

Uniform Requirement
Uniform is mandatory. Day uniform includes grey trousers for all students, a grey skirt for female students, a navy blue jumper, and a unisex polo shirt, with shoes that are dark in color and must maintain a smart-casual style. PE uniform is worn for PE classes and includes a hoodie, long trousers, shorts, and a technical T-shirt; these are worn during PE time with appropriate trainers; seasonal adjustments to summer and winter uniforms are provided.

Food Options
Lunch is served daily for all students, with fresh fruit and yoghurt each morning. Lunch is prepared by a leading Madrid catering company, using 100% certified organic ingredients; meals are free of additives, pesticides, preservatives, colourants and saturated fats; lactose, flours and eggs are not present. Menus can be adjusted for intolerances or allergies.

House System
Virtus College has four Houses: Attenborough, Austen, Hawking, and Seacole. Year 12 and Year 13 students are grouped together in these houses, promoting community and cross-year collaboration. The House System features inter-house competitions in drama and sports and a house points system to recognise contributions.

Governance and Ownership
The school is an independent British school and a chartered partner of The Schools Trust, a UK-registered organisation supporting top-tier international schools.
Fees

Annual tuition at Virtus College The British Sixth Form ranges from EUR 23,500 to EUR 32,200 for 2026/27.

Tuition fees by year

- Year 12: EUR 24,500 per academic year. As part of the enrolment fee there is an advance payment of EUR 1,500 which is deducted from the first invoice of Year 12.

- Year 13: EUR 24,500 per academic year.

Per-term billing (standard option)

- Tuition is payable either as a single annual payment before the start of the academic year or in three equal instalments before the start of each term. For the three-instalment option, the instalment amount for a EUR 24,500 annual tuition is EUR 8,166.67 per term; for Year 12 the first term invoice will be reduced by the EUR 1,500 advance payment (resulting in a first-term tuition invoice of EUR 6,666.67 when using three instalments). Invoices are issued one week before the scheduled direct debit dates.

Enrolment / reservation and application fees

- Application fee: EUR 200 (payable at the start of the admissions process).

- Enrolment / reservation fee: EUR 5,000 total, split into:
- Registration: EUR 3,500 (covers iPad, Apple Pencil and Keyboard which become the student's property, textbooks, teaching materials, uniform and educational licences for the two academic years).
- Advance payment of Year 12 tuition: EUR 1,500 (deducted from the first invoice of Year 12).

- Payment deadline for the enrolment/reservation fee: within 10 calendar days of formal notification of admission; payment of the reservation fee must be made by bank transfer. Failure to pay within this deadline can render admission null and void.

School lunch (canteen) fees

- First term: EUR 850.
- Second term: EUR 600.
- Third term: EUR 600.
- Lunch is invoiced as a distinct canteen fee and included with the corresponding term invoice; the exact term amounts may vary with term length. Students on study leave in the third term pay only for days in school at a daily lunch cost of EUR 9.20 (VAT included).

School transport (bus)

- Annual school-bus fee (Pozuelo / Aravaca / Boadilla / Majadahonda / Las Rozas routes): EUR 2,800 per year. This is charged separately.

Additional fees and costs

- Uniform: compulsory items include polo, trousers, sweatshirt, sports t-shirt, sports shorts and long sports trousers; price depends on number of items purchased and is paid directly to the official supplier.

- Examination fees: EUR 150 per exam paper for A-Level examinations (Edexcel and Cambridge boards); fees for late registrations or other boards/levels will vary. Examination fees are not included in tuition.

- Medical insurance / school insurance: the school maintains insurance covering civil liability and accidents on school premises; parents are required to ensure the student has medical insurance as specified in school policies. Specific premium amounts are not listed.

- School trips: costs for trips of at least one night are charged to families and will vary by trip.

Boarding / residential accommodation

- Residential accommodation is offered through external partner residences close to the school (modern, fully furnished studios with private bathrooms and residential support). These residences are independently managed and billed separately by the accommodation providers; specific boarding fees are set by those providers and are not listed as part of the school tuition schedule.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Standard instalment schedule uses SEPA direct debit on the following windows: first (autumn) term debit between 1st–3rd August; second (spring) term debit between 1st–3rd December; third (summer) term debit between 1st–3rd March. Invoices for each term are issued about one week before the corresponding direct-debit window.

- Parents who pay the full annual tuition in advance by the specified early-deadline receive a discount (the school offers a 5% early-payment discount when the full course is paid in advance by the deadline stated by the school).

- Application fee may be paid by bank transfer or in cash; the enrolment/reservation fee must be paid by bank transfer; regular tuition payments are collected by SEPA direct debit as described above. No credit-card payment option is specified in the school's fees and terms documents.

Refunds and cancellation

- School fees are non-refundable except in specific, limited circumstances set out by the school's admissions and terms & conditions. The reservation (enrolment) payment is generally non-refundable. If an IGCSE applicant who had been previously admitted is finally rejected for not meeting entry requirements, the school refunds the full amount paid (except the application fee of EUR 200) within five calendar days of notification of the rejection. Detailed refund conditions and any exceptions are governed by the school's terms and conditions.

Discounts and scholarships

- Sibling discount: 5% discount for families with two or more children enrolled at the school.

- DRIVE Scholarship: a competitive award that reduces tuition by 15% for the two years and is granted to two students at the start of Year 12.

Summary of the main fee figures (for quick reference)

- Tuition (Year 12): EUR 24,500 per year.
- Tuition (Year 13): EUR 24,500 per year.
- Enrolment / reservation fee: EUR 5,000 (EUR 3,500 registration + EUR 1,500 advance).
- Application fee: EUR 200.
- School lunch: EUR 850 / EUR 600 / EUR 600 per term.
- School bus: EUR 2,800 per year.
- Examination fee: EUR 150 per paper.
Academics

Virtus College The British Sixth Form teaches Bespoke Curriculum, British Curriculum, Cambridge International AS Levels, Pearson Edexcel IGCSE for students aged 15 to 18.

Curriculum
International A-Levels are offered as a two-year programme for students aged 16 to 18. Virtus College provides 15 International A-Level subjects from which students select four with staff guidance. The A-Level programme is modular, with examinations taken across four series in Year 12 and Year 13 (January and May). The curriculum blends A-Levels with tailored enrichment courses as part of a bespoke roadmap for university entry. Classes are small, with teachers delivering instruction in groups of no more than 10 students. Each student is guided by a dedicated personal mentor throughout the two-year journey, providing one-to-one support across academics, careers, personal development and wellbeing.

Student Teacher Ratio
Small classes of no more than 10 students.

Exam Results
A-Level results for the class of 2025 included 71% of students achieving at least one A*/A, with 42% of all grades at A* or A. The majority (64%) of students achieved A*-B grades. Destinations for 2025 included the University of Cambridge (Engineering), the University of Bath (Business with work placements), King's College London (Culture, Media and Creative Industries), and Durham University (PPE/Finance), among others. UK applicants secured places at Russell Group universities, with 73% achieving offers.

Higher Education Progression
Destinations in 2025 include Cambridge, Bath, Durham, King's College London, University College Dublin, IE University, Universidad Navarra, ESIC, and more. UK applicants continued to secure places at Russell Group universities, with 73% of UK applicants into Russell Group institutions.

Gifted and Talented
From Year 12, students are placed on a ‘flight path' benchmark to set minimum expected A-Level outcomes, with progress tracked via a value-added system and ALPS benchmarking. The school provides an Enrichment Programme with Engineering, Humanities, Finance & Entrepreneurship and Medical tracks to extend learning beyond the core curriculum. A dedicated personal mentor supports academic challenge, career planning and wellbeing.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
A dedicated Mentor is assigned to each student and weekly one-to-one sessions cover organisation, study techniques, personal wellbeing and university planning. The Mentor coordinates wrap-around support with teachers and the Careers Team, setting clear targets and reviewing data after each assessment. Mentors identify when extra stretch or targeted practice is required and organise clinics, workshops or targeted activities in clubs, Houses and the wider community. PSHE sessions address relationships, mental health, nutrition and digital citizenship as part of the pastoral approach. Life on Time is used to monitor wellbeing, and families are kept informed through regular, solution-focused communication.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Upon admission or when a SEND need is identified, there is a comprehensive assessment of strengths, weaknesses and learning styles, drawing information from teachers, parents and relevant professionals. The SENCo liaises with parents and educational psychologists to understand the needs of each student. The provision places the student at the centre and the school adapts accordingly to give the best chance of success. SEND provision is described and coordinated to support inclusive education and maximise student outcomes.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
A-Level subjects include English Language and English Literature. IELTS (English language accreditation exam) is compulsory for every student to certify academic English for university applications. Virtus College offers a British curriculum and a two-year A-Level program designed to support university entry at leading institutions. The English Language subject is among the listed A-Level offerings. The program and language requirements are part of preparing students for international university applications.

Mental Wellbeing
Weekly mentoring supports personal wellbeing and academic planning. PSHE sessions address relationships, mental health, nutrition and digital citizenship. The pastoral model is proactive and relational, with mentors who know their students deeply and collaborate with teachers to anticipate needs. Life on Time is used to monitor wellbeing and keep track of student welfare. The community emphasises wellbeing through leadership roles and club activities that foster personal growth and resilience.

Safeguarding
A safeguarding strategy is in place with an unequivocal commitment from Virtus College staff to protection and wellbeing. The support network enables effective communication among families, staff and partners to guarantee welfare. PSHE and mentoring address relationships, mental health and digital citizenship as part of safeguarding. Technology is regulated for safeguarding: devices are managed, phones are collected daily and iPads have safeguards. The safeguarding framework is underpinned by proactive pastoral care and regular, solution-focused family involvement.
Parent Experience

History
Founded in 2016 by graduates of Oxford and Imperial College, Virtus College blends the traditions of British education with an innovative, personalised approach in Madrid. It specialises in the final two years of secondary education, with small classes of no more than ten students. Virtus College is an independent British school and is a chartered partner of The Schools Trust, with a board of advisors guiding its development. In 2023, Virtus College opened a purpose-built campus designed to support A-Level study, including light-filled classrooms, quiet study areas, and communal spaces. Residential accommodation is available for students coming from outside Madrid, providing a safe, comfortable home away from home within a caring, structured environment.

Community
Madrid is described as one of Europe's most energetic capitals, offering culture, community, and opportunities for students to grow academically, socially, and personally. Madrid's culture and cosmopolitan lifestyle provide an ideal environment for students from around the world to study and experience life beyond the classroom. Students at Virtus College can explore Spain's heritage and contemporary culture through organised visits, cultural activities, and community events. The city's central location supports a diverse global community that helps students feel included and empowered to succeed.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The campus is a light-filled and modern Sixth Form space located in Alcobendas, Madrid. It is purpose-built for ambition, creativity and personal development in a prestigious area. The building features glass-panelled classrooms, fully equipped science laboratories and dynamic study areas. Students have dedicated workspaces, a digital library and collaborative zones, with rooftop terraces and wellbeing spaces to support balance and growth. The campus uses cutting-edge technology and sustainability features and benefits from excellent transport links.

Sports Facilities
Sport is embedded into the wider curriculum with weekly sessions designed to build fitness, teamwork, communication and resilience. Students participate in basketball, football, volleyball, padel, tennis and gymnastics. The school partners with the European School of Sports to provide high-performance programmes with a 10% scholarship. These programmes support athletic excellence and academic ambition.

Academic Facilities
Light-filled, glass-panelled classrooms and fully equipped science laboratories form the core academic spaces. The campus offers dedicated workspaces, a digital library and collaborative zones to support independent and group study. It emphasises openness, innovation and academic excellence, with cutting-edge technology and industry-standard tools. Sustainability is a visible focus in facilities and operations, with excellent transport links supporting accessibility.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Enrichment Programme extends learning beyond the classroom with courses linked to degree and career pathways. In Year 12, students select two courses; in Year 13, they specialise in one. Courses include Engineering (F1 in Schools and Python programming), Humanities (Psychology, Philosophy & Ethics, Journalism), Finance & Entrepreneurship (Young Enterprise and Wharton Investment Competition) and Medical (biomedical research). Debating is compulsory and develops public speaking, argumentation and critical thinking.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Lessons are interactive and forward‑looking, with students participating in academic competitions and extension projects. Each student follows a tailored weekly schedule balancing A‑Level courses, mentoring sessions, and enrichment. The timetable also includes an Oxbridge & Ivy League Programme to shape future leaders for top universities.

Arts & Creative
Student‑led clubs reflect the passions of our Sixth Formers, including debate, entrepreneurship and the creative arts. The House System builds community across year groups and fosters healthy competition in arts and sports. Clubs and societies provide ongoing opportunities to develop creativity and leadership outside the classroom.

Cultural & Language
Spanish A‑Level is offered as part of the curriculum. The timetable includes Spanish A‑Level alongside other subjects such as Maths and Economics. MUN Debating supports language skills and cross‑cultural communication through structured discussion and diplomacy.

Social & Hobbies
Student‑led clubs reflect Sixth Formers' passions, from debate and entrepreneurship to creative arts. MUN Debating is offered as part of school life. The Formula 1 for Schools competition and the Young Enterprise enrichment programme provide hands‑on experiences beyond the classroom.

Community & Service
Service is central to our school values. Students participate in volunteer initiatives and organise fundraising events with partner organisations such as Sant'Egidio and ECOALF. These activities promote empathy, global awareness and a deep‑rooted commitment to social responsibility.

Leadership & Professional
Every student is guided by a dedicated personal mentor across academic, careers, personal development, and wellbeing. The school runs an Oxbridge & Ivy League Programme to prepare students for top universities. Mentoring supports leadership and professional development through one‑to‑one guidance.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Sport is embedded in the curriculum, promoting physical wellbeing and teamwork. Students can choose from football, basketball, padel, and more, with high‑level competitors accessing specialist programmes through a partnership with the European School of Sports. Lunch is freshly prepared daily by Madrid's top organic caterers, with dietary needs accommodated to support energy and wellbeing.
Languages

Language Provision
The school teaches four International A-Level language subjects: English Language, English Literature, French, and Spanish. Virtus College offers 15 International A-Level subjects, and each student chooses four. The English Language subject page includes a Spanish quotation translated as "Language shapes the way we think and determines what we can think."
Admissions

Admissions
Apply now through Virtus College's admissions process. The process consists of four steps. The admissions assessments are not exams to be prepared for and do not determine acceptance; they help understand each student's profile to tailor their educational journey. At the end, families receive a Vocational Profile report with an initial recommendation for A-Level choices. Step 1: Complete the application form via the online application. Step 2: Admissions Meeting — a chance to visit the school and confirm fit. Step 3: Student Interview and Tests — personal interview and tests conducted online and face-to-face. Step 4: Vocational Profile results and resolution of the admissions committee — guidance on how Virtus College can best support the student's goals. Entry requirements: At least 6 IGCSEs with a minimum grade of C (4) including Maths and English Language; a minimum grade of 6 (B) in the IGCSE subjects the student wishes to study as A-Levels; to study Mathematics and/or Science, at least a grade 7 (A) in the equivalent IGCSE; to study Further Mathematics, at least a grade 8-9 (A*). For students currently studying in a system other than the British system (MYP, Spanish system, American system, French system, etc.), contact Admissions. Places are limited; the admissions process is open until March 31.

Scholarships
DRIVE scholarships reward both academic achievement and outstanding external achievements and reduce tuition by 15% over the two-year program; two students are awarded DRIVE scholarships at the start of Year 12. There is also a 5% discount for families with two or more children enrolled.
School Events
The school has not added events
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