Choosing an international school is a big decision. Not only are you choosing the right education for your child, but you’re also choosing a community that will shape their upbringing.
When it comes to making this decision, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Every family is different and what works for one may not work for another. With that said, there are some key factors to consider when choosing an international school that can help make the decision easier.
1. Location
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an international school is location. Do you want your child to be in a big city or a smaller town? Do you want them to be close to home or experience something new? You will need to decide whether you want your child to attend a school in your home country or abroad.
There are pros and cons to both options. A big city can offer more opportunities and a greater variety of schools to choose from, but it can also be more expensive and overwhelming. A smaller town may not have as many school options, but it can be more affordable and provide a sense of community that may be lacking in a larger city.
If you choose to send your child to a school abroad also, you will need to research the different education systems in different countries and select the one that best meets your child’s needs.
2. Curriculum
Another important factor to consider when choosing an international school is the curriculum. There are a variety of curriculums to choose from, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), the British curriculum, French or German International Abitur, or the American curriculum.
Each curriculum has its strengths and weaknesses. The IB is known for its rigorous academic standards, while the British curriculum is more focused on traditional subjects. The American curriculum is somewhere in between, with a focus on both academics and extracurricular activities. You will need to decide which curriculum is best for your child and make sure that the school you select offers it.
3. Cost
The cost of an international school is another important factor to consider. tuition can vary widely depending on the location and curriculum of the school. In general, schools in big cities and those offering the IB or British curriculum are going to be more expensive than those in smaller towns or offering the American curriculum.
4. Community
The community of an international school is also an important factor to consider. Do you want your child to be in a school with mostly local students or international students? Each option has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
A school with mostly local students can provide a more immersive experience, but it may be harder for your child to make friends if they don’t speak the local language. A school with mostly international students can provide a more diverse experience, but it may be harder for your child to get involved in the local community.
5. Language of Instruction
Another important factor to consider when choosing an international school is the language of instruction. Many international schools offer classes in both English and the local language. However, some schools only offer classes in English. You will need to decide which language you want your child to be instructed in and make sure that the school you select offers it.
6. Extras
Finally, you’ll also want to consider the extras offered by the international school. These can include things like sports and extracurricular activities, boarding options, and special needs services.
Not all schools offer all of these extras, so it’s important to choose a school that offers the ones that are most important to you and your family.
Deciding to send your child to an international school is a big one. But by considering these key factors, you can make sure you choose the right school for your child’s individual needs.
If you still haven’t found a school yet, you might want to check out Oakleigh.
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