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Xabia International College

When and why was the school created?
XIC was founded in 1994 to provide a quality education, from Nursery to University, based on the English National Curriculum within an international environment.

What is the mission/philosophy of XIC?
The school’s philosophy is to promote student’s enjoyment of learning and motivate them to fulfil their true potential within a culture where achievement of all kinds is celebrated. We aim to help all students to develop self confidence and to take responsibility for their own learning. We encourage students to have a sympathetic understanding of all races, religions and ways of life.

What curriculum does the school follow?
We follow the English National Curriculum. The school is an exam centre for Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSEs and A Levels.

Are the children taught Spanish and if so to what level?
We are fully committed to teaching Spanish as a core subject throughout the curriculum. Spanish is taught to all children from the age of 5. All Spanish and many non-native children follow our first language programme, which, on successful completion, leads to convalidation of their studies at 16 by the Spanish authorities and receipt of the Spanish School Leaving Certificate (ESO). After A Levels at 18 these students are able to access Spanish or other European universities.
Other students are taught to IGCSE or A Level.

Are any subjects taught in Spanish?
We teach Lengua (Spanish Language), Valenciano and Conocimiento del Medio (History and Geography), as well as some extra-curricular activities in Spanish.

From which countries do the students come from? What is the ratio of Spanish students to foreign students?
Currently, approximately 50% of students are British, 20% Spanish, 10% German, 10% Dutch and the remainder a mix of nationalities including American, French and Russian.

What percentage of students stay at the school for the full duration of their education?
All students stay to complete their IGCSE studies at the age of 16.
Those aiming to go on to University (over half of Year 11 ) join our sixth form to follow Advanced Level courses.

For children not from the local community, does the school have any specific strategy to ensure they are somehow integrated into the local community?
We celebrate local fiestas, participate in local events and competitions and organise exchange programmes and trips with other local schools.
Secondary students have the opportunity to participate in a work experience programme with local businesses.

How does the school select teachers?
We recognise that our teachers are our most important resource. The school has a rigorous selection process. Vacancies are advertised locally and in the UK. Candidates are shortlisted and interviewed by members of the Senior Management Team. All teachers must have an EU teaching qualification.

What is the student / teacher ratio?
Approximately 11 to 1.

What extracurricular opportunities (sports, clubs, community service etc) are available for students?
There are a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including tennis, football, karate, golf, Spanish and drama. Lunchtime clubs include:
Spanish drama, computer, chess, sport, orchestra, choir, art, crafts, drama and gardening.

What strategies are used to teach students who are not fluent in English?
We offer an EAL (English as an Additional Language) programme at Secondary level and total immersion in the English language through other subjects and extra curricular activities.

For which countries are students prepared for further education at 18?
Students are prepared to enter universities and establishments of higher education worldwide. In recent years most of our students have gone on the universities in the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, The Netherlands, Austria and USA.

What kinds of support or resources does the school offer parents?
Regular parent meetings take place throughout the year. We also encourage parents to take an active role in school life, which may include supporting classroom activities, organising extra-curricular clubs as well as taking part in all major events and celebrations. Our parents’ association, The Friends of XIC, also organise a full calendar of social and fund-raising events throughout the school year.

Is there an admissions policy - what is it and why does it exist?
XIC is not an academically selective school. However students are only offered places following an interview and submission of a satisfactory report from their previous school. To be admitted we have to be convinced that the student wants to learn and s/he must have a good behavioural record.

What is the application process and do you have a waiting list?
Waiting lists apply to some year groups. Our application process involves an interview with the Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher.
Following submission of the school report and a satisfactory conversation with the previous school, a place will be offered. Due to demand for places the offer is guaranteed for one month prior to payment of the registration fee.