English school in Tecate: bilingual, intensive or as a subject
How to tell how much English each school really offers
Living minutes from the border makes many families in Tecate look for a school with good English. But «bilingual», «intensive English» and «English as a subject» mean very different things. This guide helps you ask the right questions.
Three models, three outcomes
| Model | Time in English | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| English as a subject | 3 to 5 hours a week | Vocabulary and basic grammar |
| Intensive English | 1 to 2 hours a day | Fluent comprehension and conversation on everyday topics |
| Bilingual | Half the school day or more | Full subjects taught in English |
None is better in the abstract. What matters is that the school tells you clearly how many hours it is and how it's taught, so your expectations are realistic.
Questions that clear everything up
- How many hours of English a day are there in this grade?
- Who teaches the class, and what training do they have?
- Is it taught through games and conversation, or with a book and worksheets?
- What happens if my child arrives with no English at all?
- How do you measure progress?
Why starting young helps
Before the age of seven, children pick up the pronunciation of another language with an ease that fades later. Starting in preschool doesn't guarantee fluency, but it does give them a trained ear and no fear of speaking.
What you can do at home
- Sing the songs they learn in class at home.
- Put on their favorite cartoon in English now and then.
- Celebrate every new word, without over-correcting.
- Read illustrated bilingual stories together.
At Colegio Encinos there's an English class every day from the first grade of preschool, with interactive classes and continuity through elementary school.
Quick questions
Will my child get confused with two languages?
No. Mixing words at first is normal and goes away on its own; learning two languages doesn't hold back Spanish.
Do I need to speak English to help?
No. Showing interest and giving them chances to hear the language at home is enough.
How many hours of English are there at Colegio Encinos?
Every day, from 1st grade of preschool and all through elementary school.
Come visit Colegio Encinos
Book a visit, walk through the classrooms and the playground, and ask anything you need. Enrollment open for 2026 – 2027.