International School
in Barcelona
Preparing international teens aged 16–19 for university success
with a focused, English-speaking education.
International School in Barcelona
Preparing international teens aged 16–19 for university success — with a focused, English-speaking education.
Who We’re For
Designed for global families seeking an English-speaking international school option specifically for the final years of secondary education
Families relocating to Barcelona with teenagers aged 16–19
International families arriving in Barcelona who need a globally recognised, English-speaking education for their teenagers aged 16–19.
Students who need an English-speaking pathway into UK, European, or US universities
For students aiming for university pathways in the UK, Europe, or the US, we provide a fully English-speaking environment and a curriculum recognised by leading institutions worldwide. Our A Level programme gives teens a focused, rigorous foundation that aligns directly with international admissions requirements.
Teens who thrive in a more mature, focused learning environment
A Levels give students the freedom to focus on the subjects they’re genuinely interested in, rather than following a one-size-fits-all programme. At The Learn Academy, teens learn in a mature, university-style environment where they’re encouraged to take ownership of their studies. We help them grow in confidence, develop strong time-management skills, and stretch themselves academically, all within a supportive, close-knit community
International families who want an alternative to large P–12 international schools
Many international families prefer a setting that feels more tailored to teenagers than to younger children. Our school provides an alternative to large P–12 institutions by offering a dedicated, age-specific environment where older students can learn, focus, and grow alongside peers who are preparing for the same next step: university.
Who We’re For
Designed for global families seeking an English-speaking international school option specifically for the final years of secondary education
Families relocating to Barcelona with teenagers aged 16–19
International families arriving in Barcelona who need a globally recognised, English-speaking education for their teenagers aged 16–19.
Students who need an English-speaking pathway into UK, European, or US universities
For students aiming for university pathways in the UK, Europe, or the US, we provide a fully English-speaking environment and a curriculum recognised by leading institutions worldwide. Our A Level programme gives teens a focused, rigorous foundation that aligns directly with international admissions requirements.
Teens who thrive in a more mature, focused learning environment
A Levels give students the freedom to focus on the subjects they’re genuinely interested in, rather than following a one-size-fits-all programme. At The Learn Academy, teens learn in a mature, university-style environment where they’re encouraged to take ownership of their studies. We help them grow in confidence, develop strong time-management skills, and stretch themselves academically, all within a supportive, close-knit community
International families who want an alternative to large P–12 international schools
Many international families prefer a setting that feels more tailored to teenagers than to younger children. Our school provides an alternative to large P–12 institutions by offering a dedicated, age-specific environment where older students can learn, focus, and grow alongside peers who are preparing for the same next step: university.
What Makes Us Different
A specialised, Sixth Form–style international school focused solely on the most important two years of your teen’s education
→ A dedicated international school environment for ages 16–19
→ A dedicated international school environment for ages 16–19
→ Small class sizes and personalised academic suppor
→ Expert guidance for university applications (UK, EU, US & beyond)
→ Located in central Barcelona
At The Learn Academy, we specialise in the final two years of international secondary education, a stage that often gets lost inside large P–12 schools.
We are not a traditional international school covering early years, primary, or middle school. Instead, we offer a purpose-built Sixth Form environment designed for global teens preparing for university.
Our model mirrors the independence, maturity, and academic focus students will experience at university, helping them transition with confidence.
Our Curriculum
Internationally recognised qualifications that open doors — from Barcelona to the world
At TLA, we offer the British A Level programme, an academically rigorous pathway that allows students to specialise in subjects that match their goals, interests, and university ambitions.
This gives international teens in Barcelona a clear, streamlined alternative to broader programmes like the IB or American system, with a depth-based curriculum universities value highly.
Not familiar with the A Level system? Click here to learn what A Levels are and how they work →
What makes our curriculum stand out:
British A Levels – 3–4 subjects in depth
Taught in English in the heart of Barcelona, A Levels give students a focused academic pathway tailored to their future university goals. At The Learn Academy, we offer the broadest A Level subject selection in Barcelona, allowing students to customise their learning experience to match their strengths, interests, and university aspirations.
Exam-based assessment = transparent, merit-driven outcomes
Students are evaluated through formal exams rather than constant internal coursework, allowing for clarity, fairness, and strong academic discipline.
Independence and university-style learning
Our sixth form model reflects the structure of UK colleges, encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning and grow into confident, self-directed thinkers.
Subjects aligned with global university pathways
Whether your teen wants to study medicine in the UK, psychology in the Netherlands, or design in Spain, our subject options are tailored to support their goals.
While many international schools in Barcelona offer multiple curricula, age levels, and learning tracks, our school focuses exclusively on the final stage, ensuring your teen receives expert guidance, mature peer groups, and an environment shaped for academic growth.
The Grade Levels
This first year of preparation towards the international A-level qualifications is called the AS-level certificate. The AS-level year constitutes 50% of the final qualification and will be awarded after external examinations in May/June. Grades are 100% exam based, with no coursework.
This is the final year of study towards the A-levels. This year constitutes the final 50% of the qualification. The A-levels will be awarded after external examinations in May/June. Grades are 100% exam based, with no coursework.
Enquire About Admissions
Comparing International Schools in Barcelona?
Choosing an international school in Barcelona is a big decision, especially for families with teens approaching university.
If you’re exploring options, we’ve created a detailed comparison guide covering:
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British, IB, and American curricula
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How A Levels differ from the IB Diploma
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What international schools offer for older students
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Why some teens transfer to A Levels in their final years
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The student experience in different school models
Daily Life at TLA
We follow the Catalan academic calendar, from September to June, divided into three terms.
Schedule
- The school day commences promptly at 8:50 am and concludes at 4:15 pm.
- Throughout the day, there are 5 class periods, each lasting 1 hour and 25 minutes.
- Compulsory school hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. During this time, students must either attend classes, utilise study rooms on campus, or study outside or in a local cafe.
- Each day at 10 am, students must be on campus at 10 am daily for a 20-minute form group session, where attendance is taken and safety ensured. Any absences prompt email notifications to parents. Sessions cover topics like mental health, cultural celebrations, and global citizenship projects.
- Outside of these mandatory hours, students have flexibility to arrive late or depart early from campus.
Study Periods
- Using the iPads conveniently located near the entrance, students have the option to sign themselves out and study in nearby cafes or outdoor spaces within a designated radius.
- We encourage students to strike a balance between off-campus study periods and utilising the on-site study rooms to maximise productivity. Study periods play a vital role in A Level preparation, assisting students in effectively managing their homework and study commitments.
Weekly Timetable
- TLA includes a weekly assembly into the timetable. It is a time where we come together as a school community, share achievements and announcements and present awards to celebrate the achievements of our students.
- We offer a diverse range of extracurricular activities scheduled through the week, such as Duke of Edinburgh, book club, model United Nations, and various student-led groups.
Graduate Pathways
Where our students go next
At The Learn Academy, everything we do is built around preparing students for university. Our graduates receive offers from top institutions across the UK, Europe, and the US — a testament to the strength of the A Level pathway and the support students receive here.
Whether your teen is aiming for medicine, business, liberal arts, engineering, or creative degrees, we help them build a clear and confident pathway from our international school in Barcelona to their next academic chapter.
Graduate Stories
Dylan Rose
Dylan, a 2024 graduate of The Learn Academy, is now pursuing a BBA at Esade. With immense support from TLA teachers and guidance through the UCAS process, Dylan credits his academic success and personal growth to the school.
Ram Kontar
Ram, a 2024 graduate of The Learn Academy, is now pursuing a Business degree at La Salle Ramon Llull University. With the constant support from TLA’s teachers and a welcoming environment, Ram found the application process smooth and his time at school enjoyable.
Community Testimonials
Common International School FAQs
. What makes an international school in Barcelona different from a local Spanish school?
International schools teach in English, follow globally recognised curricula (such as A Levels, IB, or the American system), and prepare students for university pathways outside Spain. They also tend to have diverse student communities and a more international teaching approach.
Are there international schools in Barcelona specifically for older teens (16–19)?
Most international schools in Barcelona are P–12, meaning they serve all ages from nursery to Year 13. Only a small number, like The Learn Academy, specialise exclusively in the final two years of secondary education — offering a more mature, focused environment for teens preparing for university.
Do international schools in Barcelona offer different curriculum options for the final years?
Yes. Some offer the IB Diploma, others the American high school system, and some — like TLA — specialise in British A Levels. Each pathway leads to different university options and suits different learning styles.
How do I know if A Levels or the IB Diploma is better for my teen?
It depends on your teen’s learning style and university goals. A Levels allow students to specialise deeply in a few subjects, while the IB requires a broader mix. Students who prefer focus, subject depth, and exam-based assessment often thrive with A Levels.
Can my teen join an international school in Barcelona if they don’t speak Spanish?
Yes. Many international schools — including The Learn Academy — offer a fully English-speaking environment. Students can study successfully and integrate into the community without prior Spanish knowledge.
Do international schools in Barcelona follow the Spanish academic calendar?
Most do, including TLA. The school year typically runs from September to June and is divided into three terms.
Is The Learn Academy considered an international school if it only serves ages 16–19?
Yes — TLA is an international school, but with a specialised model. Instead of covering all ages, we focus exclusively on the crucial final years of secondary education, offering a mature, university-style environment for international teens.
Get in Touch
Have any questions about our programmes? Contact us and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours!