The Pathways School is an alternative higher education institution in Spain

Alternative education in Spain It is attracting an increasing amount of interest Families of expats Planned moves are especially popular with those looking for alternatives to the traditional school systems of state and international. This trend has intensified in recent years, especially after Pandemic. More parents are questioning whether conventional education based on exams meets their children’s needs.

A new secondary school in southern Spain is currently being built in San Enrique de Guadiaro near the prestigious Sotogrande.

Alternative secondary education is in high demand

The Pathways School was founded by Rob WilsonA professional educator with over 20 years of experience in Europe and Asia. He has held leadership and teaching positions in International Baccalaureate schools.

Rob says that the idea of Pathways came from repeated conversations with parents. Early years offer a wide range of options for children to learn on their own. However, as they reach secondary school age, the choices are often limited.

Rob has spoken with many professors of higher education, who also acknowledge the need to update an outdated system. He says that universities want to see something new. “They’re looking for students with transferable skills, depth of thinking and real experiences – not just grades and boxes ticked.”

Rob believes in an age of AI that the skills most likely to be replaced are curiosity, empathy and creativity. Exam-driven education is also a major factor.

The Pathways School: Plans

The Pathways School This micro-school is capped at 15 students. It’s scheduled to open in September 2027 and will cater to students aged 14–18.

Students will learn core academic subjects like maths, sciences, and languages, but a lot of their learning will come from longer-term projects based on the students’ interests.

Teachers will mentor students rather than lecture continuously, and will assess based on continuous feedback instead of traditional grades.

With a focus placed on digital fluency, technology will play a major role. Students will be taught to use artificial intelligence and other tools responsibly. The use of digital creation, research and coding will be paired with outdoor learning, making and collaboration.

Learning is linked to UN Sustainable Development Goals. The community service will be mandatory, and framed as an obligation.

Future pathways to university access

Families who are considering alternative education often wonder if it will limit their access to higher education. Wilson said that the Pathways curriculum would be designed to “satisfy international university entrance requirements” in the UK and Europe.

The school also plans to provide support for students who decide not to attend university, through internships or entrepreneurship.

The Pathways Vision is closely linked to Alma Forest School. Pathways can now explore new locations and developments thanks to the continued growth of Alma.

Scholarships are currently being considered to reduce the fees.

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