Moving your life and family to a new country is an exciting
but daunting time which poses many questions and conundrums—from how to carry
out the big move, to which neighborhood to make your home in, to “how
many of these cuddly toys do we really need to bring with us?!”. One of the
major decisions that each family needs to make is, of course, which school to
send your child to, and within this lies the all-important choice between
national and international schools.
International
schools are schools usually found in capitals and other major cities
that provide an education based on an international curriculum for an
international community. In your search for the right school, it is well worth
taking a look at local international schools and weighing up the pros and cons
compared to national schools in your new city. In order to do so, here are four
good reasons why choosing an international school for your child might just be
the best decision you make this year.
1. International Schools Promote a Global Outlook
In our increasingly globalized world, it is more important
than ever that our children understand the wider world and develop a global
mindset. International schools are globally focused and provide students with
the skills and knowledge which encourage them to be active citizens in a global
community. They are also culturally diverse spaces and allow students to
connect with children from all over the world, not to mention culturally aware
teachers from many different countries.
2. Break Down The Language Barrier With an
International Education
In most international schools the main language is English;
so if you’re coming from an English-speaking country, your child will be able
to slot right in with one less obstacle. Moving countries and schools can be
challenging enough, so removing the language barrier will make the transition
much smoother for them and take a weight off your mind too. They’ll also have
the opportunity to learn the host country’s national language and most likely
another one or two.
3. International Curricula Are Recognized Around The
World
This is a key factor to consider in your choice of school.
Not only will an international curriculum equip them with education and
qualifications that are globally recognized, but it will also mean that they
can move seamlessly from one school to another if you move cities (or
countries) again. For example, the International Baccalaureate* (IB) programme
is taught at international schools in almost 150 countries. This may be preferable
to an American school, for example, which would teach the U.S. curriculum or
a British
school which would be based on the GCSE and A-Level exam syllabi.
The IB curriculum is also known to be challenging, with an emphasis on critical
and independent thinking and which leads to capable, internationally-minded
students.
4. International Schools Support Vibrant Student
Communities
When you join the community of an international school, you
suddenly find yourself surrounded by people just like you who have faced
similar challenges, share similar experiences, and understand you and your
lifestyle. You and your children will have the opportunity to meet and share
time with other expat families, as well as the school staff who can empathise
with your child’s situation and are adept at helping new students settle in.
So, there you have it; four good reasons why international
schools are worth a look. If you’re weighing up options and still feeling a
little unsure, why not chat with some other expats to gain an insight
into their decision-making process and how it worked out for them? Then get in
touch with the international schools in your new city and organise a few visits
to see for yourself. And don’t forget to bring the children!