An international school provides not just an international education for a mixed community but a broad, well-rounded social experience too.Typically established in larger cities, they’re designed to provide a specialist education to children from expat communities who are currently living in that country.
Take this international school in London for example – here, children from countries across the globe come together with the same aim, to receive a first-class education in a close, supportive school community.Mixing with children from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds is of enormous benefit to children of all ages and allows students to form a global network of friends and future business connections.
Which curriculum do international schools follow?
International schools follow a curriculum which is internationally recognised. These generally include the English National Curriculum, the International Baccalaureate, International GCSEs (IGCSE’s) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC).Thanks to the well-planned and streamlined guidelines of international curriculums, it’s simple to transfer children from one school to another in a different country or back to a general school within the UK. It also ensures that any examinations taken in one country are recognised in the next.
Which language is spoken?
English is the language of teaching in all British international schools. This means that all children can meet on their various level and improve their spoken English together in an environment where it’s the native tongue – meaning their skills will quickly grow so that their spoken English will soon be highly developed.
What are the benefits of choosing an international school?
There are many and varied benefits to choosing an international school for your child not least, the previously mentioned cultural experiences to be gained whilst learning beside children from many different countries.Because international schools have such a well-travelled and mobile population, children quickly become skilled at adapting to change and at helping others to adapt too.
When a new child arrives, they’ll usually be warmly welcomed by other students who understand only too well the experience of being a new student in a new country.
International schools also understand the issues which families who travel often can face.To this end, it’s often much easier to arrange term-time travel with international schools than it is with others.
The excellence of a British education is recognised globally
English is the language of business so there’s obvious value in sending your child to a British international school. It places students in the vicinity of some of the world’s best universities making applying and preparing to attend open days and interviews, much easier than if they were abroad.
Extra-curricular activities
In London-based international schools, these tend to be outstanding. After all, London is one of the global centres for cultural activities and the arts. There are some of the best theatres and galleries in the world right on the doorstep – not to mention historical architecture and beautiful countryside.
Local community involvement
The benefits which international students can gain from involvement in the local community are not to be ignored. Volunteer opportunities within local organisations allow students the chance to immerse themselves in English culture and to practice speaking English with those to whom it comes most naturally!
Some questions you might consider before applying to an international school
It makes sense to consider some of the questions you may want to ask before applying to any school – international schools have their own set of considerations though, so here are a few to begin with:
- How are children assisted when it comes to settling in?
- How many children are in a typical class?
- How does the school manage communication with parents?
- Which curriculum do children follow?
- How is students’ progress monitored?
- What extra-curricular activities are offered?
With these questions settled, you’ll feel more confident about your child attending a new school.Every parent wants their child to have wonderful opportunities – international schools offer the best in terms of education, future networking prospects and cultural experiences.
