When our family first thought about moving overseas one thing we didn’t worry too much about was what type of school (and school curriculum) was the right fit for our kids. We were operating under the proviso that the only way my hubby would accept a role at an international school was that the kids would also go to the same school!
But after a few years on the circuit experiencing different types of schools (from full British where my 4-year old had to wear a tie, to a more relaxed fully international school where the kids can wear whatever trainers they like), and after talking to many digital nomad families who don’t work in international education, I’ve realised there’s a lot more to consider when choosing the right school for your kids!
Here are some of the main options to think about when deciding on the best curriculum and type of school for your family.
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1. International Schools
What are they?
International schools are designed for expat, diplomatic, or internationally mobile families (or locals looking for an international education and English immersion).
A lot of international schools offer the IB (International Baccalaureate), British (IGCSE/A-Levels), American, Canadian, or even Australian school curricula.
Teaching is usually done in English and, depending on the location, students typically come from all over the world.
• Our first years overseas were in British curriculum schools. These offered clear stages (EYFS, Key Stages, IGCSE, A-Levels), and typically lots of assessment and structure. Although it wasn’t familiar for us (being Australian), lots of our British friends felt really comfortable in this environment because it replicated what they believed their kids would get if attending a school back in the UK.
• Later, we moved to a full international IB school. These schools typically offer a more inquiry-based learning mode which means cross‐disciplinary work across various subjects. There’s a greater emphasis on thinking, reflection and global citizenship (though all schools obviously differ).