Long dominant, the French system is no longer the only horizon for Moroccan families seeking foreign education. Due to the increased tuition fees and a diversification of educational offerings, other systems are gaining ground, supported by foreign public institutions or international private schools with alternative teaching methods.
In Casablanca, as in other major cities, alternatives to the French system are attracting a growing number of families. Spanish, British, American, or Canadian options are enticing due to their cost, pedagogical approaches, and international exposure.
Among these options, the Spanish system has become a structured and relatively accessible choice. In Morocco, it is based on a network of public institutions directly affiliated with the Spanish Ministry of Education, currently educating over 5,000 students with the guidance of more than 400 teachers.
In Casablanca, the Spanish Institute, established in 1967, exemplifies this historical presence. The institution offers a complete curriculum from kindergarten to baccalaureate, in line with the Spanish educational system, emphasizing multilingualism and cultural openness.
Spanish is becoming a strategic choice for Lamia, whose son is now enrolled there this year. She cites the quality of the system, positive feedback from acquaintances, reasonable costs compared to other foreign schools, and proximity to home as determining factors.
The linguistic aspect also played a significant role in the decision-making process, as Lamia wanted her son to be exposed to multiple languages, including Spanish, French, English, and Arabic.
In addition to Spanish, the Anglo-Saxon system has been gaining popularity in recent years, driven by a demand for more flexible pedagogies and an increased international focus. Schools like the Casablanca American School, founded in 1973, offer an American curriculum enriched with the International Baccalaureate, facilitating access to foreign universities.
These developments reflect a broader evolution in the educational landscape, with the Spanish and private international schools providing credible alternatives to the traditionally dominant French model. The choices parents make reflect increasingly complex considerations, balancing cost, location, languages, and future prospects, all in pursuit of the best possible educational experience for their children.
