If you are thinking about making the move to Spain, a permanent one and you have children, one of your primary concerns maybe for their education.  If the children are very young, many suggest that it is beneficial to enter them immediately into the Spanish education system, as this will give them an unprecedented opportunity to learn their adopted language fluently.  This is also by far the most economical option.  Once they get older, you may choose for them to carry on in the Spanish system or to move them to the international system for exams, such as GCSE's and A levels.

See www.nabss.org for a list of British schools in Spain. 

International schooling is another option.  Remember, you will have to allow for school fees and educational materials, however attending a school with children of various different nationalities is considered to be healthy for a child.  There are hundreds of international schools to choose from, but many more in traditional ex-pat areas, such as the Costa Del Sol, than more rural areas.  Proximity to schooling could actually be an important factor in deciding where you should buy your new home.  Almost all schools have brochures and encourage you to take a tour of the facilities before deciding where is best for your child.  If you contact real estate agents about a property, they will often have a list of local Spanish and international schools for you to choose from.