Moving to a new country is exciting but challenging for expat families, especially when choosing a school. A good school helps children adjust, offering stability and a strong foundation. With options like international, bilingual, and local schools, the choice can be overwhelming. Harrow International School in Hong Kong provides quality education for expat children, ensuring continuity and excellence.
Parents should consider curriculum, language, activities, location, and cultural fit. Every child has different needs, so finding the right school is important for a smooth transition and a great learning experience.
1. Understand Your Child’s Educational Needs
Every child has unique learning preferences, strengths, and challenges. Before exploring school options, assess what matters most for your child’s academic and personal development. Consider the following:
- Learning Style: Does your child thrive in a structured, academically rigorous environment or a more flexible, student-led approach?
- Language Proficiency: Will your child need English-language instruction, or are they comfortable learning in another language?
- Special Education Needs: If your child requires additional learning support or gifted programs, ensure the school can accommodate those needs.
- Social & Emotional Well-being: Consider how a school supports expat children’s emotional well-being and adaptation to a new culture.
2. Choose the Right Curriculum
Expat families often look for curricula that align with their home country’s education system to facilitate future transitions. The most common curricula include:
- International Baccalaureate (IB): A globally recognized program focusing on critical thinking, research, and inquiry-based learning. Ideal for families planning to move between countries.
- British Curriculum (IGCSE & A-Levels): Provides a structured and exam-focused approach, widely accepted by universities worldwide.
- American Curriculum: Offers a flexible, student-centered approach with Advanced Placement (AP) courses for college preparation.
- Local National Curricula: Some expat families opt for local schools to integrate their children into the host country’s education system.
Research how each curriculum aligns with your child’s future academic and career aspirations before making a decision.
3. Consider Accreditation and School Reputation
Accreditation ensures that a school meets high educational standards and is recognized internationally. Look for accreditations from organizations such as:
- Council of International Schools (CIS)
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO)
- Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE)
Additionally, read parent testimonials, online reviews, and school rankings to gain insight into a school’s reputation. Visiting the campus and speaking with current students and teachers can also provide valuable perspectives.
4. Evaluate Extracurricular Activities and Holistic Development
A well-rounded education goes beyond academics. Schools that offer diverse extracurricular activities help children develop social skills, leadership abilities, and personal interests. Consider schools that provide:
- Sports programs (football, swimming, tennis, etc.)
- Music, arts, and drama programs
- STEM clubs and robotics
- Community service and leadership opportunities
- Cultural exchange programs
5. Assess Language Support and Multilingual Opportunities
If your child is not fluent in the host country’s primary language, finding a school with strong language support is crucial. Many international schools provide:
- English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs for non-native English speakers.
- Bilingual or multilingual programs that help children develop proficiency in multiple languages.
- Language immersion opportunities to facilitate cultural adaptation and communication skills.
Choosing a school that promotes multilingualism can be beneficial, especially if your family plans to stay long-term or move to another country in the future.
6. Consider Location and Accessibility
The school’s location is a key factor, as long commutes can be stressful for children and impact their overall well-being. When evaluating options, ask yourself:
- Is it easy for you to get to school from your house or workplace?
- Does the school offer transportation services?
- Is it located in a safe and family-friendly area?
Living near the school can also help children engage more in extracurricular activities and build friendships within the school community.
7. Evaluate Tuition Fees and Additional Costs
International schools can be expensive, and tuition fees vary widely based on curriculum, facilities, and reputation. Apart from tuition, consider other costs such as:
- Registration fees and deposits
- Uniforms and textbooks
- Extracurricular and field trip fees
- Transportation and meals
Some companies offer education allowances for expat employees, so it’s worth checking if your employer provides financial support for school fees.
8. Look at Transition and Support Services for Expat Families
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming for children, and a school that provides strong transition support can make a significant difference. Look for schools that offer:
- Buddy systems for new students
- Counseling and well-being support
- Parent-teacher associations (PTAs) to help families integrate
- Orientation programs for expat families
A welcoming school environment ensures that children settle in quickly and feel at home in their new educational setting.
9. Visit the Schools and Speak to Other Expats
Once you have shortlisted potential schools, schedule campus visits to observe the learning environment, facilities, and overall atmosphere. Speak with school administrators, teachers, and parents to get firsthand insights. Questions to ask include:
- How does the school support expat students adjusting to a new environment?
- What is the average class size and teacher-student ratio?
- How are discipline and behavioral issues handled?
- How does the school communicate with parents about student progress?
Joining expat forums or online communities can also provide valuable recommendations and reviews from other parents who have been through the same decision-making process.
10. Plan for Long-Term Education Goals
If your family moves frequently, choosing a school with a globally recognized curriculum can ease future transitions. Consider:
- Will the curriculum allow a smooth transfer to another school if we relocate?
- Are there opportunities for internationally recognized exams (IB, IGCSE, AP)?
- How do the school’s graduates perform in university placements?
Thinking ahead ensures that your child’s education remains consistent and uninterrupted, regardless of future relocations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right school is important for expat families. Factors like curriculum, location, and activities help find the best fit. Harrow International School offers quality education and a supportive community.
Researching schools and talking to other expats can make the transition easier. The right school helps children succeed academically and adjust to their new home.
About Peter C.
Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad. Ask him anything in our community forum. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.
