Schools & Family Life
International schools, children's activities, and everything parents need to know about raising a family in Mallorca.
International & Local Schools
Escola Nova
Fees
€2,500–€5,000 / yr
A Waldorf-inspired school with a holistic, arts-integrated approach. Smaller and more community-oriented than most international schools. Some English provision.
Children's Activities & Sports
Swimming
Several clubs offer year-round training: Club Natació Palma, PALMA SWIM, and many hotel-linked academies. The Palma Aquatic Centre (Palma Arena) hosts competitive meets.
Football
Grassroots football is huge. Most towns have a local club affiliated with the Federació de Futbol de les Illes Balears. RCD Mallorca runs youth academies at various levels.
Tennis
Private clubs and municipal courts across the island. Rafa Nadal's influence runs deep — academies at various levels in Palma and Manacor. Club de Tenis Palma has strong junior programmes.
Water Sports
Sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding are popular from April–October. Several clubs offer junior programmes: Club Nàutic S'Arenal, Club de Vela Port d'Alcúdia.
Arts & Music
Music schools and conservatories are dotted around Palma. The Conservatori Professional de Música i Dansa offers affordable tuition. Private music academies also exist for younger children.
Gymnastics & Dance
Gymnastics clubs and dance academies are widespread. Most towns have a local dance school offering ballet, contemporary, and Mallorcan folk dance (ball de bot).
Horse Riding
Several equestrian centres offer lessons for children: Son Gual, Can Picafort, and clubs near Llucmajor. Mallorca has a strong equestrian tradition and regular events.
Martial Arts
Judo, karate, and taekwondo clubs exist in most towns. The Palma Sports Complex hosts regular competitions. A good option for routine training and discipline.
For parents
The school calendar runs September–June
With long summer holidays (July–August), many families opt for summer camps (campaments d'estiu) run by local councils, sports clubs, and private organisers.
Language immersion works fast
Children in state schools typically become conversational in Spanish within 6 months and Mallorquí within a year. Most families are surprised how quickly kids adapt.
Paediatric care
CAPs have dedicated paediatric slots. Private options include specialist children's clinics in Palma. Clínica Rotger and Clínica Juaneda both have paediatric departments.
Beach safety
Lifeguards operate on main beaches June–September (flag system). The sea can have strong currents in some areas — always check the flag before letting young children in.
School fees and availability change annually. Always contact schools directly for current information. Last reviewed May 2026.