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I’m SINÉAD GALVIN, widely regarded as Madrid’s #1 education consultant, and I support families in finding the best school fit for their child while easing the entire relocation process. With extensive on-the-ground expertise and continuous school research, I provide accurate insights and trusted guidance to make each family’s move as smooth and informed as possible.
Since founding Steps into Spain in 2020, I have assisted over 500 families—and counting—find a school in Madrid where their child can thrive, with the number growing each year as more families trust me to guide them through this important decision.
I’m an Irish expat who has been living in Spain for over 23 years. I’ve called cities like Granada, Valencia, Tenerife, and Barcelona home, but Madrid has been ‘mi casa’ for the past 20 years, with occasional stints in London and Melbourne.
When I first moved to Spain, I initially taught business English. I went all by my lonesome from office to office with my English books and knew Madrid’s metro line off by heart. Fast-forward a year later, and I was lucky enough to become involved in a project with la Comunidad de Madrid and the British Council, teaching English for a number of years in Spanish public schools.
This enriching experience provided me with a deep understanding of the Spanish education system, which is invaluable when assisting families with applications to public and concertado schools in Madrid.
As a parent myself, I’ve navigated the school search and application process for my own three children. Drawing from both my professional and personal experiences, my goal is to guide and support families every step of the way.
When you work with me, you gain access to a vast database of information tailored to your family’s needs. My in-depth knowledge and insights ensure that we find the school in Madrid where your child will thrive.
Over 300 school visits. Ear to ground, always.
One on one service - I work individually with every family.
I work for my clients (not schools) and will always have your back.
As an expat mum, I've lived this same experience, I've got you.
Forbes June 2026 – Quoted as education expert on Yale’s reinstated SAT requirement and its impact on IB students applying to US universities from Madrid.
The Times London May 2026 – Quoted as education expert in a Times report on private equity’s growing influence over Madrid’s British school sector.
The Irish Times July 2021 – How a Kerry woman built a life and business in Madrid — and why she’s the person expat families call when it’s time to find the right school.
RNE — Desde Esta Orilla Una conversación sobre el sistema educativo, la vida en Madrid y emprender en España siendo extranjera.
Innovate Spain: The IT Chronicles AI, smartphones, and your child’s education in Spain.
Mum Abroad – Why I set up Steps into Spain — and how to navigate All schools in Madrid.
I offer a boutique school search service, providing one-on-one guidance to my clients.
As an education consultant, I have visited over 300 schools in Madrid that my clients might be interested in. Getting to visit every school that you’re interested in might not be possible so leaning on my experience is helpful in learning about school life, fit and many other things that are hard to pinpoint online. This firsthand information goes well beyond what’s available on school websites (aka shop windows!) and social media.
I take the time to get to know each family personally, ensuring I understand their unique needs and preferences. From years of experience, I am very aware that what works for one child (Child A) may not necessarily work for another (Child B) due to differences in school culture and parental expectations. This in-depth understanding allows me to curate a tailored list of schools that best fit your child’s specific requirements in Madrid.
Whilst there is no such thing as a perfect school (I’ve searched, believe me), I work alongside you to identify the school where your child will thrive, while also pointing out areas within the school that could be improved (insider knowledge).
Once you decide to work with me, our school search journey begins and continues until we find the right school for your child in Madrid or Málaga.
MOVING TO MADRID? GOT A QUESTION? I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU
Find the best next step for your family based on where you are in the process.