Judy Sharp International School

Since 2024, Alex Engel BA MEd has led the school with a steady hand, a teacher's heart and a genuine understanding of what makes her students tick. Originally from the US, Alex first taught English in the Spanish public school system after moving to

School accepts students from 6th to 12th grade with mild to moderate learning differences. Most have ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia or are on the autism spectrum. More complex difficulties (such as ODD (oppositional defiant disorder) are considered on a

Some students use their time at Judy Sharp to develop the skills and self-assurance needed to return successfully to mainstream schooling and others return to their home country.

In the past, most students did not go on to higher education.

The academic programme blends US Common Core standards with the official Spanish curriculum. Core subjects include English, maths, science and social studies, complemented by Spanish language and culture, and a selection of electives such as

The holistic approach means that support isn't an add-on - it's woven into everything the school does. Students’ learning, emotional well-being and confidence are considered together, so each child can develop at their own pace.

Within the

English as a second language (ESL) classes are offered individually or in small groups and are designed to build confidence in speaking, reading and writing.

The school also offers a bilingual (Spanish/English) programme, blending the US Common

Currently there’s no extracurricular offering. Activities such as Dungeons & Dragons, yoga and cooking have been available in previous years. School hopes to reinstate them in the future.

Field trips are part of the programme. Paintball, escape

Grades 6 to 10 have scheduled PE classes, rotating with health education. The school garden is used for activities like yoga and there’s just enough room to squeeze in a volleyball net. A local basketball court is also available. Many students

The school has eight teaching staff, including the principal and dean of studies. Half the teachers are trained in special educational needs, and all are selected for patience, empathy and vocation. ‘You really have to fall in love with this kind of

A student-centred school in every sense, where pastoral care isn't an add-on, but the foundation of everything they do. Staff work closely with students to build social emotional awareness and strengthen executive functioning skills, helping them

Families often find the school through word of mouth - a testament to the strong community and reputation it has built among parents who've seen their children flourish. Parents consistently cite the school's flexibility as a major strength. For some

Fees are in line with other international private schools in Madrid. A 10 per cent sibling discount is available and need based financial assistance is offered. Parents describe the school as ‘worth every penny.’

Judy Sharp offers a lifeline to families, providing a supportive, structured environment for students with moderate to severe learning differences, including ADHD, dyslexia and autism spectrum conditions. It’s a school that genuinely understands an