School in Spain

The school system here in Spain is very different from the U.S. In Spain they do not have High School they have a Secondary Education. This Secondary Education begins at age 12, and goes through 18. I feel that I am lucky to experience another culture’s customs, especially the school system.
As I enter my new school for this year I observe all the students and surroundings. It is an interesting sight. Together, students from all different ages and sizes are enjoying themselves, talking to one another. Because of my age and grade in the U.S. I am placed in Segundo Bachillerato, which is the highest level or grade in Secondary Education. After Segundo Bachillerato the students go off to a university or work.
I arrive at my first classroom and notice that there aren’t any decorations such as pictures or books in the room, in contrast to my school’s classrooms back at home. In the classroom there are only desks for the students and the teacher, a chalkboard and a coat rack.
As class begins I immediately take note of the differences. It is more relaxed, students can just yell out questions or comments without raising their hands and the majority of the teachers don’t mind.
Another thing that I think is very unusual is that the subjects we take have different classrooms and are not during the same periods each day. For example, on Monday we will have Biology during period 1 in room 36 and then on Tuesday we will have Biology during period 3 in room 27.
In the middle of the school day all the students are given a 30-minute break. It is sort of like a recess/ lunch. During this period of free time most students will eat a bocadillo (sandwich) or have a small snack. It is not a full lunch or meal; that is reserved for after school.
When school finishes each day I go home with my host brother, Oscar. At home we eat lunch do our homework then go to the club (gym) or just chill. There are no extracurricular activities in school for Segundo Bachillerato, such as sports or academic clubs. It is up to the individual to find things to do after school.
Despite the differences in schooling I am able to make new friends and it has been a great experience so far.