So many things to think of when you move to another country. One of the most exciting things is that the old brain cells are stretched every single day as each new challenge comes your way. Things you had not thought about are now new learning experiences. For instance, we heard from a neighbour that if you have children that will be going to Spanish Schools, you are required to show proof of their record of inoculations, you will also need the child’s birth certificate, photocopies of parents and child’s passport or residencia. You will need to contact the school for an application form. It is also useful to know, that education is provided free of charge, but unlike England you need to provide all course books, paper, pens and pencils.

At the moment, there are no British Schools on Fuerteventura. Children may start school here when they are 3, but I believe it is compulsory from the age of 6. The school year runs from mid-September through to mid – June with a three-month summer break and approx 2-week Christmas and Easter breaks. There are no half-term holidays, but you would obviously need to check all of this with your local school.

What a wonderful age to be introduced to a new language, we notice that they soon become confident using the Spanish language. If you think your child may have a problem with the language, speak to the school (take an interpreter with you if necessary). They may be able to suggest ways to help your child, they may have after school classes or they may have a list of people who can give private tuition. The next opportunity is for the parents to keep up with the children. To be able to speak to your child’s teachers and to help with their homework is very important.

The Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) run courses for foreigners wishing to learn Spanish, go to your local Ayuntamiento and enquire, there is only a minimal fee. I believe at the end of the course they sometimes take you on a little tour of your Municipality, for example, to show you where to pay your taxes, how to join the library, very useful and interesting. There are also Spanish conversation classes at many of the local schools; I know for instance that there are classes in Rosario, El Mattoral, and Parques Hollandes. Or, there are many private tutors, ask friends and neighbours for information.