Quick summary of key school information
School details
| Number of students |
900 |
| Number of nationalities represented in the school |
25 |
| Most common nationality |
United States, Ukraine, and Chinese |
| Ratio of local students to international students |
85% |
| Native English and Spanish speaking teachers |
Our commitment to academic excellence is driven by our expert faculty. Our language specialists are not only fully credentialed but also bring diverse international backgrounds to the classroom, enriching the learning experience. |
| Language support for students not fluent in English and Spanish |
Yes |
| Additional language classes offered by the school |
French and German |
| Max. number of students per class |
22 |
| Average number of students per class |
19 |
| Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
| Use of technology in the classroom |
Our school integrates technology to foster meaningful learning and comprehensive Digital Competence, preparing students for a constantly changing, connected society. We prioritize teaching students how to use technology critically and responsibly—for research, collaboration, and content creation—rather than just focusing on the devices themselves. Our technological ecosystem is tailored to each educational stage: Early Years and Primary students use shared mobile computer labs for targeted activities. In Secondary, we implement a 1:1 Chromebook program in a secure digital environment, while Baccalaureate students bring their own laptops (BYOD) to develop the independence required for higher education. |
| Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures) |
Yes, absolutely. Colegio Internacional San Cristóbal is fully equipped for both virtual and hybrid learning. The everyday integration of Technology for Learning and Knowledge in our classrooms means that online workspaces, video conferencing, and digital collaboration tools are already a natural part of our educational model, ensuring complete continuity of learning in any emergency. |
| Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
No |
| External examinations or assessments available |
Our school offers a robust and flexible academic pathway. Students complete the full International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum (PYP, MYP, and the DP), while we also offer the official Spanish Baccalaureate for those pursuing the national curriculum. Furthermore, as an Official Cambridge Examination Centre, our students conveniently prepare for and sit their Cambridge English language certifications on-site. |
| Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes, but our approach is highly intentional. We assign purposeful homework designed to consolidate classroom learning, foster independent study habits, or prepare for upcoming projects. We avoid repetitive busywork and ensure that tasks are age-appropriate, respecting our students' family time and well-being. |
| Approximate hours of homework given |
Homework hours vary significantly by educational stage. In Early Years and Primary, the volume is minimal (typically 15–30 minutes daily), focusing primarily on fostering a healthy reading routine and family connection. As students advance into the MYP and IB Diploma Programmes, study hours naturally increase to support independent research, time management, and project work. |
| Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
92%. Thanks to the rigor of the IB Diploma Programme and the Spanish Baccalaureate, our graduates are consistently accepted into higher education. They successfully secure placements at prestigious universities both in Spain and internationally, fully prepared for the academic demands of university life. |
| Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Our comprehensive Student Support Services include a specialized Educational Psychology Department. Our dedicated staff provides individualized accommodations, emotional support, and targeted learning programs to guarantee an accessible and enriching educational experience for all our students. |
| Learning support offered |
At Colegio Internacional San Cristóbal, our learning support is built on the principles of inclusive excellence and holistic development. Our specialized team provides differentiated support tailored to each student’s unique cognitive and emotional profile. By working in close partnership with teachers and families, we implement personalized learning plans that remove barriers to learning, nurture individual strengths, and ensure every student thrives within our rigorous academic framework. |
| The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
In alignment with our IB philosophy, we offer specialized enrichment opportunities for highly able and gifted students. Our Educational Psychology Department works alongside teaching staff to provide curriculum extension, advanced project-based learning, and personalized academic challenges that keep these students continuously engaged and motivated. |
| Student access to education psychologist |
Yes, absolutely. We have a dedicated team of educational psychologists on site. Students can easily access these professionals for individualized academic counseling, emotional well-being check-ins, or developmental support, ensuring a safe and nurturing school environment. |
| Entry evaluation for students |
Yes. Rather than a traditional entrance exam, we conduct a comprehensive admissions assessment. This includes a personal interview with the family and the student, alongside a review of previous academic records, to ensure our educational model aligns with the student's needs and potential. |
| Brief description of entry evaluation required |
Our admissions process is focused on ensuring a successful transition for every student. For our youngest applicants in Early Years and Primary, we prioritize a personal interview with the family to align expectations and share our educational project. As students progress into Secondary and the IB Diploma Programme, we complement this with a review of their previous academic journey to provide the best guidance and ensure they are well-prepared for our high-standard international curriculum. |
| Waiting list |
Yes, due to our high academic standards and the popularity of the IB Continuum, some year groups may have a waiting list. However, availability changes throughout the year, and we encourage interested families to contact our Admissions Department for the most up-to-date information and to schedule a personal visit. |
| Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
At Colegio Internacional San Cristóbal, we accept registrations year-round, subject to space availability in each class. While there is no strict deadline, we encourage early application to ensure a smooth transition and guarantee a spot in our IB Continuum programs. |
| Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes. We understand that international and professional families often move outside of the traditional academic calendar. At Colegio Internacional San Cristóbal, we welcome students throughout the year, provided there is space available. Our team is highly experienced in ensuring a smooth academic and social transition for students joining us mid-term. |
| School start time |
The school day begins at 09:00 for Preschool and Primary students. For Secondary (ESO) and Baccalaureate students, the school day starts earlier, at 08:30. |
| School finish time |
School finish times vary by educational stage:
|
| Supervised care before/after school |
Yes. We are fully committed to supporting our families' work-life balance. To accommodate different professional schedules, we offer supervised care ('Ludoteca') before and after regular school hours. This service is available from 07:30 to 09:00 in the morning and from 17:00 to 19:00 in the evening, providing a safe and engaging environment for our students outside of their academic timetable |
| School bus service available |
Yes. To support our families’ logistics and ensure a smooth start to the day, Colegio Internacional San Cristóbal operates a comprehensive school bus network. Our routes are strategically designed to connect the school with various nearby towns and residential areas, providing students with a safe, comfortable, and punctual transport service. |
| School provided lunches |
Yes, our school provides a professional catering service with its own kitchen on the premises. We offer specialized menus for a variety of dietary needs (celiac, vegetarian, halal, etc.) under the supervision of a dietitian. Unique to our school, this service is optional, providing families with the freedom to decide based on their personal preferences. Dining times are organized by age group to guarantee a comfortable experience for all students. |
| Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes. Thanks to our on-site kitchen and specialized dietary team, we are fully equipped to provide personalized menus that respect every student's needs. We offer balanced alternatives for medical requirements (allergies, celiac, diabetes), as well as cultural or ethical choices, including halal, vegetarian, and vegan options. Our kitchen follows strict protocols to ensure the highest standards of food safety and inclusivity. |
| Uniform required |
Yes. The school uniform is mandatory for all students from Early Years through to the end of Secondary Education (4th ESO). We believe it fosters a sense of belonging and equality within our community. As our students enter the IB Diploma and Baccalaureate stages, they are exempt from wearing a uniform, marking their transition towards greater personal responsibility and a more professional dress code. |
| Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
We offer a diverse range of extracurricular activities organized through our specialized schools, designed to foster talent, health, and creativity: Sports School: Basketball, Futsal, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Taekwondo, Skating, Athletics, Multisport, Chess, and Psychomotor games for our youngest students. For Secondary (ESO) students, we offer specialized Functional Training. Music & Dance School: Music studies, Dance school, and Choir. Creative & Digital School: Digital Creativity, and Artistic & Digital Drawing. Language School: German (including preparation for official Goethe-Institut certifications). Academic Support: Supervised study sessions and reinforcement classes to help students develop effective study habits. |
| Sports activities included |
Physical Education at our school goes far beyond traditional sports. Our curriculum is designed to promote physical well-being and strategic thinking through a diverse range of activities. Depending on the grade level, students participate in specialized programs such as Sailing, Swimming, and Cycling. We also uniquely integrate Chess into our academic curriculum to enhance cognitive skills. These are complemented by a wide array of team sports, including Volleyball, Handball, and Basketball, fostering teamwork and healthy habits from an early age. |
| Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes. Our students have the opportunity to represent the school in various federated and inter-school leagues. We have competitive school teams in Rhythmic Gymnastics, Futsal (Fútbol Sala), and Basketball. Participation in these competitions is an integral part of our sports program, fostering essential values such as teamwork, resilience, and school pride while allowing students to develop their athletic talents at local and regional levels. |
| Facilities at the school |
Beyond sports, our campus is designed to be a hub for inquiry and creativity. We feature specialized Science Laboratories (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology), a modern Library and Resource Center, and dedicated Art and Digital Media Studios. A standout feature is our Performing Arts Center, where Drama is integrated into the Primary curriculum. In 10th Grade (4th ESO), this culminates in our renowned Charity Musical, a large-scale production where students manage everything from performance to social fundraising, blending artistic excellence with community service. |
| Sports facilities at the school |
Our campus features a comprehensive sports complex designed to support both high-performance training and a diverse physical education program: Indoor Facilities: A large Indoor Sports Hall with a spectator capacity of 300, a Gym, and two Multipurpose Rooms for activities such as Yoga, Dance, and Taekwondo. Specialized Areas: We provide a dedicated Tatami for martial arts, a professional technical carpet for Rhythmic Gymnastics, and a specific skating area. Outdoor Courts:
Supportive Amenities: 4 full-service locker rooms and professional-grade equipment for all sporting disciplines. |
| Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
A world-class education with a family heart. Since 1970, Colegio Internacional San Cristóbal has been a benchmark of educational excellence in Castellón. As a family-led, independent, and non-confessional institution, we combine over 55 years of tradition with a forward-thinking international outlook. We offer the full IB Continuum (PYP, MYP, and DP) alongside the Spanish National Curriculum, ensuring our students are prepared for global success. Our hallmark is a deeply personalized approach: we foster an environment of affection, respect, and trust where every student’s individual talents are nurtured. From Early Years to university entrance, we empower our students with the skills, languages, and values needed to make a positive impact in an ever-changing world. At San Cristóbal, we don't just educate students; we grow with them. |
| Teaching approach of the school |
Our teaching approach has combined family tradition with the highest international standards. As an IB World School, we offer the full IB Continuum (PYP, MYP, and DP), a framework centered on inquiry where students take ownership of their learning journey. Our methodology is uniquely powered by Neurodidactics, aligning our teaching strategies with how the brain actually learns through curiosity, surprise, and emotional involvement. We believe that 'learning to feel' is as important as 'learning to think,' which is why our Emotional Education program is a core pillar from Early Years onwards. Through active learning models such as Project-Based Learning (PBL), Cooperative Work, and Thinking-Based Learning (TBL), we foster critical thinkers and ethical citizens. This academic rigor is delivered in a multilingual environment featuring English immersion from age 0, ensuring our students are fully prepared for a globalized world. |