Sixth Form College in Barcelona:
British A-Levels at The Learn Academy
Sixth Form College
in Barcelona:
British A-Levels at The Learn Academy
At The Learn Academy, we specialise in A-Level education for students aged 16 to 19. We’re not a big international school trying to do everything. We’re a focused, British-style Sixth Form College in the heart of Barcelona, built to help teens thrive academically, personally, and beyond.
Why Choose a British Sixth Form in Barcelona?
Sixth Form is the final stage of secondary education in the UK system. It’s where students focus on the subjects that matter most to them and prepare for university or their next steps in life.
At The Learn Academy, we:
→ Offer the British A-Level curriculum
→ Teach entirely in English
→ Accept students from all education backgrounds Spanish system, IB, American)
→ Provide small class sizes (max 15)
→ Combine academics with real guidance, mentoring, and pastoral care
Why Choose a British Sixth Form in Barcelona?
Sixth Form is the final stage of secondary education in the UK system. It’s where students focus on the subjects that matter most to them and prepare for university or their next steps in life.
At The Learn Academy, we:
→ British A Level curriculum with global recognition
→ Small class sizes = more individual support
→ Students start as a cohort, fostering belonging and connection
→ Flexible and personalised guidance for university applications
→ Vibrant, central Barcelona location with a mature learning environment
How is Sixth Form different from IB or Bachillerato?
Sixth Form
(A-Levels) allows students to specialise in 3–4 subjects. It offers depth, flexibility, and space to focus on what they enjoy or excel in.
Read our page: What are the A Levels?
IB
IB requires students to study 6 subjects across a broad range, plus complete Theory of Knowledge, CAS hours, and an Extended Essay.
Bachillerato
Bachillerato (in Spain) is also broader and typically tied to local university entrance exams.
If your teen knows what they’re passionate about—or wants a more focused academic path—Sixth Form is often the better fit.
What are the A Levels?
A-Levels (Advanced Level qualifications) are subject-based qualifications recognised globally. They allow students to:
- Specialise in 3 or 4 subjects they enjoy or are good at
- Gain deep academic knowledge
- Prepare directly for university-level study
They’re ideal for students who already have a direction—or want the space to discover it without juggling 6+ subjects like in the IB.
Enquire About Our Sixth From College
Subjects You Can Study in Sixth Form
We offer the broadest range of A-Level subjects in Barcelona, including:
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
- English Literature
- History
- Geography
- Business
- Economics
- Art & Design
- Spanish (for native and non-native speakers)
Daily Life at TLA
The Learn Academy follows the Catalan academic calendar, running from September to June and broken into 3 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.
How A-Levels and TLA Prepares for University
We don’t just teach. We guide.
Every student at The Learn Academy is assigned an academic mentor. They’ll support your teen through:
- A-Level study planning
- Study skills and time management
- UK university applications (UCAS)
- U.S. applications (Common App)
- Personal statements and interview prep
- Pathways to medicine, Oxbridge, arts, and more
We know how overwhelming the next step can feel. That’s why our support starts early and goes deep.
Universities our graduates attend ⟶
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 Sixth Form FAQs
Is Sixth Form the same as IB or Bachillerato?
Not exactly. Sixth Form = A-Levels. It’s more specialised and less broad than IB or Spanish Bachillerato.
Do students need to speak English fluently?
Yes. All classes, mentoring, and materials are in English.
Can students switch to A-Levels from another system?
Yes, we accept students from the Spanish system, American schools, IB programs and more.
What makes The Learn Academy different from other international high schools in Barcelona?
Unlike larger international schools that serve all age groups, The Learn Academy focuses exclusively on students aged 16–19. It offers a pre-university environment with a strong academic focus, personalised support, and a mature, respectful culture.
Do A Levels prepare students for university in Spain or other countries?
Yes. A Levels are internationally recognised and accepted by universities in the UK, US, Europe (including the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain), and beyond. At The Learn Academy, we provide tailored support for each country’s admissions requirements.
What universities do your students go on to?
Top universities in the UK, Europe, and the U.S., depending on each student’s goals.
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How much is a private international school in Barcelona?
Fees vary depending on the school, year group, and curriculum. Most private international schools in Barcelona charge anywhere between €8,000 and €20,000 per year. At The Learn Academy, our tuition is competitively priced for a boutique-style education focused on A Levels and university preparation. You can view our fee structure here.
Get in Touch
Have any questions about our programmes? Contact us and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours!