Raoul Wallenberg International School in Palma – A Local Perspective

The RWIS campus is centrally located in Palma, near Bellver yet situated on a quiet residential street (Carrer de les Oblates 23). The site covers around 10,000 m² and combines restored stone buildings with bright, modern classrooms. I was personally impressed by the converted chapel: it hosts assemblies, small concerts and theatre rehearsals — it almost feels like a little village theatre. On warm spring days you can see children playing barefoot in the orchard grass; after PE they often have snacks in the shade of the pine trees. The school currently offers Years 1–8, with a clear plan to expand up to final years; the student body is internationally mixed and most classes have around 16–18 pupils, which gives teachers plenty of room for individual coaching. Organisationally, RWIS follows the Cambridge International Pathway; in practice that means project-oriented units, lots of teamwork and presentations instead of rote tests. The language offering is wide — English, Spanish, Catalan, Swedish and often French or German in extracurriculars. Sustainability is visible: solar panels on roofs, rainwater tanks for garden care and a canteen that sources regionally where possible. Parent evenings are regular and open; at the last meeting held here topics such as screen time, homework culture and changing working methods were discussed — very practical, not theoretical. When you visit the school, allow time for a campus tour, a chat with a teacher and, if possible, a short look into a live lesson. That gives the best impression of how people learn and live here.

The RWIS campus is centrally located in Palma, near Bellver yet situated on a quiet residential street (Carrer de les Oblates 23). The site covers around 10,000 m² and combines restored stone buildings with bright, modern classrooms. I was personally impressed by the converted chapel: it hosts assemblies, small concerts and theatre rehearsals — it almost feels like a little village theatre. On warm spring days you can see children playing barefoot in the orchard grass; after PE they often have snacks in the shade of the pine trees. The school currently offers Years 1–8, with a clear plan to expand up to final years; the student body is internationally mixed and most classes have around 16–18 pupils, which gives teachers plenty of room for individual coaching. Organisationally, RWIS follows the Cambridge International Pathway; in practice that means project-oriented units, lots of teamwork and presentations instead of rote tests. The language offering is wide — English, Spanish, Catalan, Swedish and often French or German in extracurriculars. Sustainability is visible: solar panels on roofs, rainwater tanks for garden care and a canteen that sources regionally where possible. Parent evenings are regular and open; at the last meeting held here topics such as screen time, homework culture and changing working methods were discussed — very practical, not theoretical. When you visit the school, allow time for a campus tour, a chat with a teacher and, if possible, a short look into a live lesson. That gives the best impression of how people learn and live here.

The school is led by Dr Matthew Schulte, a headteacher with international experience. The teaching staff consists of experienced educators from various countries; many hold qualifications from the UK, Sweden and Spain. The atmosphere between staff and pupils is respectful and warm — you often see short, relaxed moments in the playground where learners and teachers tinker together on small projects. Professional development is part of the annual plan, so methods such as formative feedback, differentiation and digitally supported learning are regularly updated.

If you're seeking a place: the school accepts applications for Years 1–8 and expands its offerings each year. A tip from experience: attend an information day and bring specific questions — about care hours, canteen options and language support. RWIS offers multilingual communication (English, Spanish, Catalan, Swedish) and often has waiting lists because demand is high. The canteen emphasises seasonal products; allergies are taken seriously. For commuting families there is a secure pick-up area and sufficient parking nearby. Open mornings are the best chance to get a feel for daily school life and talk to other parents.