Personalised
Attention
We create a familiar, calm and secure environment;
we hold deep
respect for each child and their individual development
AFTER SCHOOL Summer School Assessment AIS

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AIS EDUCATION PRIMARY A-LEVELS SECONDARY

OUR EDUCATION AIS EDUCATIONAL MODEL Our personalised approach to the education of each child permeates through all stages of their learning; and our dedicated and engaged teaching team, nurture and inspire creativity, critical and independent thinking, as well as motivated learning at each stage: A Uniquely Blended Education At AIS International School, we empower students with a unique blend of a rigorous British curriculum, Steiner-Waldorf creativity, and mindfulness practices.

Our thriving community nurtures academic excellence, artistic expression, and inner balance, with personalised instruction supporting individual growth.

AIS is a place where children and teens can be authentic.

The
educational
pillars
of
AIS
BRITISH NATIONAL CURRICULUM: The internationally acclaimed British National Curriculum is a well crafted set of subjects and standards used by primary and secondary schools. It is taught by thousands of schools world-wide, and by more than 100 schools in Spain.
The
educational
pillars of
AIS
STEINER-WALDORF ORIENTATION: The Steiner-Waldorf pedagogic philosophy promotes a developmentally appropriate and broad learning experience grounded in a unique approach to curricular delivery and design: equal emphasis is placed on a solid academic foundation, artistic expression and socio-emotional development. Read More MINDFULNESS Mindfulness Integration: Mindfulness practices are woven into our daily routines and curriculum, fostering self-awareness, empathy, focus, and resilience.
The
educational
pillars of
AIS
BRITISH NATIONAL CURRICULUM: The internationally acclaimed British National Curriculum is a well crafted set of subjects and standards used by primary and secondary schools. It is taught by thousands of schools world-wide, and by more than 100 schools in Spain.

The national curriculum is organised into blocks of years called ‘key stages’ (KS)
The
educational pillars of
AIS
STEINER-WALDORF ORIENTATION: The Steiner-Waldorf pedagogic philosophy promotes a developmentally appropriate and broad learning experience grounded in a unique approach to curricular delivery and design: equal emphasis is placed on a solid academic foundation, artistic expression and socio-emotional development.

AIS embraces the holistic principles of Steiner-Waldorf education, which emphasise the importance of nurturing the whole child – intellectually, creatively, and emotionally. This approach encourages critical thinking, artistic expression, and social responsibility, preparing students to become well-rounded, compassionate individuals.
MINDFULNESS Mindfulness Integration: Mindfulness practices are woven into our daily routines and curriculum, fostering self-awareness, empathy, focus, and resilience. This cultivates a positive learning environment where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Compare Education Systems Read More Read More close Steiner-Waldorf
Orientation
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: A special and important feature that encompasses the school ethos and wraps around the 3 pillars is our sense of community. By embracing active participation from teachers, students, and their families, our daily school life becomes a vibrant and inclusive learning environment where parent groups and their activities play an integral role.

Our engagement with our community involves regular parent meetings, class events, and school fairs that help foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Our termly festivals showcase student learning and creativity, celebrating the achievements of our students within this supportive community environment. And our family excursions into the local countryside offer opportunities to connect with nature and each other.

Together, we strive to create a nurturing and inspiring school environment where every student can thrive, develop a lifelong love of learning, and contribute positively to the world.
“Our highest endeavour must be to develop free human beings, who are able to impart purpose and direction to their lives.”
Rudolf Steiner
Steiner-Waldorf education has proved itself adaptable in different ways all over the world over the past 100 years, and has the reputation for preparing well-rounded and balanced human beings who are able to cope with the demands of a fast-changing and uncertain world. AIS is interested in combining the advantages and solidity of the British curriculum with the insight and sensitivity of the Steiner Waldorf method. This includes respecting individual developmental stages, giving personalised attention and working with small groups. The development of social and emotional skills and a sense of inclusivity are also a priority. To this end the school offers special events, trips and nurturing community activities.

In keeping with the Steiner ethos, we aim to provide an unhurried and creative learning environment, where interest is nurtured by experiential learning. The core subjects of the curriculum, designed to work in harmony with the different phases of the student’s development, include a balance of artistic, practical and intellectual content.
close Mindfulness at AIS Mindfulness is the practice of paying full attention to the present moment without judgement. It involves noticing our thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations with kindness and curiosity. At AIS, we believe that incorporating mindfulness into our educational approach helps students develop self-awareness, focus, emotional regulation, and empathy.

Through mindfulness, we aim to create a calmer, more focused, and supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to manage stress, navigate challenges, and cultivate positive relationships with themselves and others. We believe that these skills are essential for academic success, personal well-being, and a fulfilling life.

We integrate mindfulness practices into various aspects of school life, including circle time, subject lessons and assemblies. These practices can range from simple activities like sitting and eating in silence to learning about meditation and relaxation techniques to engaging in thoughtful discussions about relevant topics as a community.

close AIS offers a rigorous and competent preparation for IGCSE exams (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) at age 16 and A-levels at age 18, with validation for Spanish and other international education systems._

The British National Curriculum: We observe the rigorous National Curriculum of England, with English as the medium of instruction, ensuring our students receive a high-quality, internationally recognised education. This foundation equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in further studies and future careers.

Focus on Creativity and the Arts We believe it is important to focus on integration of artistic activity with academic instruction at all ages. By fusing artistic and academic instruction we promote more complete learning, thorough retention and engender a deep love in the students for their subjects. Foundations of the AIS Education Model Valuing Community and Diversity
  • We foster an international community environment in which cultural, religious and ethnic diversity is valued.
  • We cultivate an appreciation of individual gifts and differences.
Reverence for the Earth and for all Living Things
  • We honor and celebrate life and the interconnectedness of all living things.
  • We aim to cultivate in our students a sense of wonder and reverence toward the natural world, experiencing the wisdom of nature as a guiding force.
  • In celebrating the passage of time through seasonal festivals, we connect children with one another and with the earth, fostering an appreciation for life, the natural environment, and our human cultures.

Curriculum Primary is a nurturing space where active children can develop their growing emotional capacity.

AIS offers Primary Education for key stages 1-2.
The principle running throughout the curriculum is that learning should take place as experientially as possible, so that there is a deep understanding and appreciation of the material covered.

Creativity is nurtured through an approach that focuses on integration of artistic activity with academic instruction. Our offer at AIS is a rich balance of academics, art, music, drama, handwork and movement, - a holistic curriculum that helps to build individual abilities and self-confidence.

“After all, the function of education is to turn out an integrated individual who is capable of dealing with life.”
J. Krishnamurti

Supporting the secondary stage as the emotional and active adolescent starts to develop a greater capacity for critical thinking.

Secondary is key stages 3-4.
Read More Inspiring and consolidating learning by preparing for their next steps and future adulthood during sixth form.

AIS offers a diverse core, as well as languages and humanities subjects at key stage 5.
Read More Read More Primary Secondary A-Level

The British National Curriculum is set out as follows:

Primary: Key stages 1-2: school years 1-6
Secondary: Key stages 3-4: school years 7-11
Sixth form: Key stage 5: school years 12 and 13
Compare the British and Spanish school years The two formal assessment stages are IGCSES and A-levels. AIS follows the National Curriculum of England and Wales and is proud to be fully authorised and accredited by two prestigious educational bodies:
The British Council through The National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS): This accreditation ensures that we adhere to the highest standards of British education by delivering a recognised and respected curriculum.
The Ministry of Education of the Generalitat Valenciana: This authorisation confirms our compliance with Spanish educational regulations and standards, ensuring that our students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in both national and international contexts.
Accreditation close Assessment at AIS Student progress at AIS is assessed through a comprehensive, ongoing evaluation of their holistic development, encompassing social, artistic, and academic dimensions.

We emphasise the open and regular communication between students, parents, and teachers and discourage stressful high-stakes academic testing. By combining a variety of assessment methods, maintaining comprehensive records, and fostering open communication between teachers and parents, we aim to create a learning environment where every student feels seen, understood, and empowered to reach their full potential.

At AIS, we believe that a balanced approach to assessment, utilising both formative and summative methods, provides the most comprehensive understanding of student progress and informs our teaching practices. Our assessment policy serves two essential purposes: to support learning and to establish standards.

The former identifies areas that need to be focused on, sets appropriate tasks and characterises the student’s approach, attitude and ability within the context of their development.

The second form of assessment provides data that can be quantified, relates to specific attainments and states what a student can or cannot do according to an objectively set standard. This is the form used by external exam moderation boards for IGCSE and A-levels exams.

Read more Starting in primary and throughout their school life at AIS, we use Formative Assessment. This is an ongoing assessment that focuses on identifying areas where children need additional support by setting appropriate tasks and understanding their attitudes and abilities within the context of their overall development. Examples of formative assessment are:
  • Observations of student work and class participation
  • Encouraging self-assessment and peer assessment
  • Conversations and conferences with students and parents
In primary, the children create their own Main Lesson book for each subject. These books are carefully crafted and colourfully illustrated and are a record of your child's progress through the year. At the end of each Main Lesson subject from Key Stage 2 onwards, there is an assessment based on criteria such as content, accuracy, presentation, effort, and English language usage.
A-Level Primary At Key Stage 3, while teachers provide both written and verbal feedback, we encourage students to engage in self-assessment and peer assessment, which promotes self-reflection and critical thinking skills.

The curriculum works towards IGCSEs (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) at Key Stage 4. At Key Stage 4, the timetable differs according to the student’s individual option choices. For students studying for the official iGCSE exams, AIS is currently offering the following subjects:

Mandatory subjects are - Maths, English language or English as a second language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics (as a Combined Science qualification), and Spanish.
Beyond the five mandatory subjects, students choose three more subjects from different option groups, including the subjects: Art, Business Studies, Computer Science, Drama, Geography, German, ICT (BTEC), Music, and Physical Education. The subject range depends on student choices. In the future more BTEC options will be on offer.

Students will take the British GCSEs at 16, equivalent to the Spanish ‘graduado escolar’ allowing access to post-16 study programmes, both Spanish and international.
Secondary Read more Read more At Key Stage 5, students will sit AS (first year of Key Stage 5) and A-Levels (Advanced Levels), these are the final exams of their school career and the subjects will be chosen by the student.

The student’s entry to university relies on the A-levels chosen and the results achieved. Specific universities and different countries have a range of criteria. Find out more information on the acceptance of A-levels in different countries here. (Insert her link to the PDF). The basic entry requirement for a Spanish university, for example, is two or more A level passes. Up to 4 AS and A-Levels are validated.

At Key Stages 4 and 5, although these students are following a more rigorous academic curriculum, we do not lose sight of our school ethos, which is to prepare rounded balanced young people, ready for the challenges of adult life.

“Education is not the filling of a pail but the lighting of a fire” Classes 1-6/
Ages 6-11
Read More Primary

We provide an education that supports the child’s healthy development; an education that is based on an understanding of the stages of a child’s physical, emotional and intellectual development and meets all aspects of these needs.

The AIS curriculum is a meaningful whole as opposed to a collection of fragmented subjects. We use formative, ungraded assessments to monitor progression.

Our offer at AIS is a rich balance of academics, art, music, drama, handwork and movement – a curriculum that is lively and current, designed to help form an understanding of the world and our relation to it.
PRIMARY Primary Education Find out more about our special approach to Primary Education: We strive to contribute
to a better world through
a holistic educational approach

Classes 7-10/
Years 8-11/
Ages 13-18
At AIS academic achievement goes hand-in-hand with social awareness
and emotional wellbeing.
secondary Read More
Secondary age children studying together

SECONDARY Our supportive, inclusive, multi-cultural community empowers students to express themselves freely, fostering open dialogue and mutual respect.

AIS main educational priority is to create an enriching school environment in which adolescents can enjoy their learning years. We prepare our students for the future in all aspects of their lives so that they continue developing self-awareness and confidence alongside the skills needed to access their next steps in education and life choices.

With tutors guiding learners throughout their educational journey, lasting relationships are formed.
Students feel able to express themselves in a vibrant, multi-cultural and inclusive school setting. Find out more about our vibrant learning environment tailored to the unique needs of adolescents:

Classes 11-12/
Years 12-13/
Ages 17-18
“Where potential feels limitless” Read More A-LEVELS

AIS offers a comprehensive A-level program equivalent to the Spanish Bachillerato and globally recognised for university entry. Sixth form is the two years of academic study for children aged 16-18 in preparation for admission to university. Several subjects are studied in depth and students can make their preferred choices from a range of subjects. The assessment is through A-levels which are required for university entry and are the equivalent of sixth form in other countries.
A-Levels SIXTH FORM / KEY STAGE 5 Holistic Development and Enrichment
Throughout Key Stages 4 and 5, we strive to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in their chosen fields. Our curriculum emphasises critical thinking, discernment, and creative decision-making. We aim to foster self-awareness, confidence, and a sense of responsibility as students prepare to become active contributors to society.
Read more about AIS tailor-made A-Level Programme Prepare for your future in a supportive environment where you can discover your own path.

Immersion in English with fun and educational activities for three age groups
4-9, 10-12, 13-15
Read More JULY 2025 EXTRA-CURRICULAR
programme
2024
Summer School Read More

AIS on Instagram Main Office Phone : +34 625295634
General Email email: [email protected]
Admissions Email email: [email protected]
AIS International School
Cami de l'Ermita 12
Alfaz del Pi 03580

Cautivador 18
La Nucia 03530
Contact STAFF VACANCIES To apply for a teaching or administration position at AIS, please please send us a message with your up-to-date biography and any other relevant material to:
[email protected] To apply for a teaching or administration position at AIS, please please send us a message with your up-to-date biography and any other relevant material to:
STAFF VACANCIES [email protected]

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