Benjamin Franklin International School

Barcelona, Spain

About Benjamin Franklin International School: Benjamin Franklin International School (BFIS) was created to provide an accessible and high quality American education to international families living in Barcelona. The school is currently made up of students from over 60 different nationalities and offers the full IB Diploma Programme.

School Mission: To nurture curiosity by encouraging students to ask bold questions, follow their wonder, and explore ideas that matter.

School Vision: Welcoming challenges as opportunities for growth, learning and reflection. It means being able to handle change or new situations easily.

Head to the school’s website for further information and job vacancies.

ITF Review
(Based on Independent Research)

Would you recommend this school to other teaching families?

Yes – the school has a good reputation and living in Barcelona offers a great lifestyle for families. But it’s important to check the offer and ensure you can afford to live comfortably. If you’re at the lower end of the salary scale, it may feel tight but manageable with careful budgeting.
On the upper end, a family should be able live comfortably, though you won’t be saving large amounts compared to higher-paying international schools in other locations.

Overall compensation package rating

Teachers at this school receive a solid salary and benefits package, including tuition for dependents and medical insurance. More experienced teachers can expect higher salaries, which can make a significant difference to quality of life. Less experienced staff may need to budget carefully given the city’s housing and living costs.

Tuition benefits

100% discount on school fees for teacher’s children is offered as part of the benefits package.

Housing

While there is no housing allowance provided, the school does state they help with finding you suitable accommodation for your family.

Flights

A flight allowance at the start of placement is offered for teacher and dependents. Returning teachers are also eligible for a flight home allowance for the first four years working at the school.

Healthcare

Private healthcare cover is included as part of the teaching package – though details of the quality of coverage (including additions like dental or vision) were difficult to source.

Adjustment for kids

Around 700 students attend the school – and the majority are international. In addition to a strong focus on holistic learning, the school offers outdoor learning and a Forest School in the Collserola Natural Park (elementary school).

Average class sizes

The average number of students in each class is around 20.

Teaching experience required

The school prefers teachers with at least two years teaching experience. It doesn’t accept newly qualified teachers but does recognise the International PGCE as a valid teaching certification.

Curriculum

American and International Baccalaureate (MYP and DP)

Retirement/pension benefits

Based on our research, we could not find any reference to pension or retirement benefits at this school.

School history & stability

The school first opened its doors to students in 1986.

Benjamin Franklin International School – Additional Benefits

  • Good PD for staff
  • Contract extension bonus
  • Relocation allowance (beginning of contract)
  • Language lesson allowance

What Teachers are Saying About Benjamin Franklin International School

The kids at this school are great and Barcelona is a wonderful city. There is heaps to do and lots of opportunity, but it’s an expensive place to live. In my experience, the salary and benefits aren’t enough to fully enjoy it.

EX INTERNATIONAL TEACHER AT BFIS

Salary is always an issue when it comes to teaching in Western Europe. It sometimes feels like you’re foregoing a decent salary for the privilege of being able to live in Barcelona.

EX TEACHER, SPAIN

Barcelona is a very expensive city to live in. While the school has a great reputation and is known to pay decent for Europe, if you want to actually enjoy living in this city you’re likely going to have to dip into your savings.

TEACHER IN SPAIN
  • Bustling scene from a crowded street market in Barcelona, Spain
  • Iconic view of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona - with its gothic architecture this is a must visit if you're working at Benjamin Franklin International School.
  • Sunset view of the Barcelona skyline showing iconic landmarks and a warm golden hour glow.

Safety, Adaptability & Cost of Living

  • Safety: Fair to High – Barcelona is generally safe, though like most major European cities, petty theft can be an issue in tourist-heavy areas. Many expat families choose neighbourhoods such as Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, Pedralbes, or Sant Cugat, which are quiet, residential, and family-friendly.
  • Adaptability: Strong – Barcelona has a large international community and is welcoming. Learning some Spanish will make daily life smoother. Families can enjoy beaches, mountains, museums, parks, and a lively year-round cultural calendar.
  • Cost of Living: High – While groceries and public transport are affordable, housing in desirable neighbourhoods can be costly and competitive. Eating out can also be expensive depending on where you choose, but many expat families find they can maintain a comfortable Mediterranean lifestyle.

General Overview for Teaching Families

Benjamin Franklin International School is a well-regarded, not-for-profit international school in Barcelona, founded in 1986. There are approximately 700 students attending the school, with over 50 nationalities represented. The school offers an American-style education alongside the IB Middle Years Programme and IB Diploma, giving students multiple routes to graduation. Instruction is in English, with Spanish taught as an additional language.

BFIS emphasises both academic excellence and community. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and is known for its diverse, inclusive environment. Students benefit from small class sizes, specialist support, and a wide range of co-curricular activities, including sports, performing arts, and service opportunities. With its city location, the school has strong ties to Barcelona’s cultural and international community, while maintaining a close-knit feel on campus.

Teachers at BFIS are described as central to the school’s identity, with PD actively encouraged. Contracts begin in August, and while salaries are lower than in northern Europe (common for Spain), benefits include arrival and relocation allowances, health coverage, and tuition discounts for dependents. The school also provides assistance with visas, housing searches, and flights. Barcelona itself is a major draw. You can enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle, excellent public transport, and the balance of city life with easy access to beaches and mountains.

Do you currently teach at BFIS? We’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch or complete our teacher survey to let us know about your time at BFIS.

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