High School in Santiago

Growing independence, shaping future pathways

High School students progress through Grades 9 to 12, a four-year stage that corresponds to the final two years of Spanish Secondary Education and the two college-preparatory years known as Bachillerato.

Students who meet all academic requirements graduate with both the American High School Diploma and the Spanish Título de Bachiller at the end of Grade 12.

During Grades 9 and 10, students strengthen their core knowledge, develop effective study habits, and continue exploring their personal interests as they take on greater academic responsibility.

In Grades 11 and 12, they follow a more specialised pathway towards university entry. Students preparing for Spanish universities work throughout these two years toward the Spanish PCE entrance examinations, while those wishing to study in the United States or in other countries may take the PCEs or the SAT and/or AP exams. The specific route is tailored to each student’s goals and Spanish-language proficiency.

Year after year, our students achieve consistently strong results in both the Spanish university-entrance tests and in SAT and AP exams, supporting successful access to universities in Spain, the United States, and across Europe and the rest of the world.

Chester College is fully accredited following international standards, which means that the credits students earn here are recognised by other American schools and can be transferred if families relocate. Similarly, our curriculum aligns with the requirements of other educational systems in Europe and beyond, supporting smooth transitions whenever needed.

What makes our High School School unique

A Bilingual English-Spanish Program

We maintain a balanced use of both languages (approximately 50% in Spanish and 50% in English). This natural immersion model enables students to express themselves with increasing fluency in both languages.
Additional support in English or Spanish is provided according to each student’s level and individual needs.
For students who arrive with little or no Spanish, the School provides a gradual immersion pathway that helps them participate confidently in classroom life, with the possibility of taking all core subjects via English initially.

Truly personalised attention

Each student’s academic and personal journey is closely and consistently followed. This individualised approach allows us to guide their learning with intention, provide targeted support whenever it is needed and help each young person develop their unique talents.

Focused preparation for university entry

In Grades 11 and 12, students follow a more specialised academic pathway tailored to their post-secondary plans. Those aiming for Spanish universities prepare throughout these two years for the EBAU/PCE, which they sit at the end of Grade 12. In recent years, our students have maintained an outstanding track record in these exams, with consecutive years of full success.
Students planning international routes work towards the SAT and AP exams, building on the strong academic foundations developed in earlier grades. Some students who intend to study in Spain also choose to sit selected AP subjects to deepen their preparation in specific areas and enhance their academic profile.
Small-group teaching allows for personalised guidance and targeted support, helping students consolidate strengths, address areas for improvement and achieve their best possible results. Our aim is not only to secure strong exam performance but also to build a solid foundation for future university studies.

A multicultural environment

Daily interaction with classmates and teachers from different backgrounds broadens students’ horizons, promotes tolerance and nurtures respect and empathy towards other cultures and ways of thinking.

Learning areas in High School

At Chester College International School , the High School curriculum (Grades 9–12) offers three academic pathways: Science & Technology, Health Sciences, or Social Sciences & Humanities.
Across all pathways, students follow a broad and balanced curriculum taught in a bilingual environment, with core and elective subjects taken either in English or Spanish depending on each student’s linguistic profile and academic needs.

English Language Arts

Students develop their English communication skills —both written and oral— through practical language work, reading and discussing a range of literary texts, and engaging in activities such as essay writing, presentations and classroom debate.
Non-native English speakers are encouraged to prepare for official English examinations, mainly Trinity College London and Cambridge.

Spanish Language and Literature

Students deepen their understanding of the Spanish language and its literary heritage. The course strengthens analytical and expressive skills through text analysis, argumentative writing and oral presentations, helping students use Spanish with clarity, precision and sensitivity.

Spanish as a Foreign Language (ELE)

This subject is designed for international students who are developing their Spanish. It offers a structured and progressive approach to grammar, vocabulary, comprehension and communication, and prepares students for the official certificates of the Instituto Cervantes at the appropriate level.

Galician Language and Culture

Students are invited to explore the Galician language and its literature, gaining an appreciation of Galicia’s linguistic heritage and cultural identity.

Mathematics

Each pathway includes its own mathematics track, ranging from algebra and calculus to probability and applied mathematics. Courses emphasise problem-solving, analytical thinking and real-world applications.

Science

Students in the Science pathway specialise in Physics, Chemistry or Biology. Courses combine theoretical learning with hands-on laboratory work, encouraging scientific inquiry and experimentation.

Social Sciences

Each student’s programme combines core subjects —such as Spanish History, History of Philosophy, European History and World History— with specialised options including Art History, Cultural Movements and History of Ideas, or Geography.

Business and Entrepeneurship (G11-12)

This subject introduces students to the analysis and design of business models that create value. They explore practical tools for innovation, strategy and problem-solving, developing an entrepreneurial mindset.

Philosophy (G11-12)

Students explore major philosophical movements and key thinkers throughout history, fostering critical thinking, reasoned argument and personal reflection.

Art

Through practical projects, students experiment with different artistic techniques and materials, learning to communicate ideas and emotions through visual expression.

German

Students who have studied German in Middle School may continue their learning and work towards achieving an official certification from the Goethe Institut.

Physical Education

The subject (taught daily until Grade 10) develops physical fitness, coordination and teamwork while promoting values such as perseverance, respect and personal responsibility.

Catholic Religious Education

Rooted in a Christian understanding of the person and the world, this subject offers space for ethical, spiritual and cultural reflection. Students are encouraged to engage thoughtfully and respectfully with different beliefs and worldviews.

Supporting Our Students’ Learning

Progress Reports

Six times a year, students and their families receive grades and reports outlining the progress achieved and the areas for improvement, all aimed at supporting active, effective and intentional learning.

Parent-student-teacher meetings

At least once per term, meetings are held involving the student, their parents and the form tutor. The school promotes strong family–school communication, the development of student autonomy and initiative, and a consistent shared approach.

Learning Newsletters

Each month, students and their families receive a Learning Newsletter summarising the key objectives and content that will be worked on in and outside the classroom during the period indicated.