Secondary Education
Compulsory secondary education takes place from age 12 to 16 and is split into two cycles. During the first cycle students will study a series of compulsory subjects including:
- language (Spanish and local language, depending on where you live)
- foreign language (usually English)
- maths
- natural and social science
- history
- geography
- music
- technology
- physical education
- art
- literature
During the second cycle of secondary education students will take optional subjects which can include:
- technology
- science
- art
- music
- foreign language
Religious studies are optional for both cycles.
Secondary education leads to a general education certificate, known as the graduado en educación secundaria. This certificate is required by most employers in Spain.
The certificate can also be used as preparation to study for the baccalaureate (bachillerato) or vocational training (formación professional).
If pupils do not meet the set standards in the end of year exams they will have to repeat the year.