Choosing a school for your children is a big task at the best of times, so choosing a new school when you’re moving abroad can prove even more daunting. Of course with any aspect of moving abroad, the best advice is to research and plan as far in advance as you can.
Speak to Parents
Perhaps you know someone who already lives in your new destination country who can give you some information about the school system or take to forums or social media to try and speak to parents in your new country – try and find out as much as you can from the parents of the children who actually attend the school, they can tell you all the little details that the school website might not.
School Hours
School hours aren’t the same across the world, look into school hours and whether or not they will fit around your working hours. If they don’t you will need to look into alternative child care options.
Curriculum
Depending on how old your children are, it usually makes sense to try and find a school that has a curriculum similar to their current curriculum so that there is less disruption to their learning, especially if they have exams coming up.
Languages
If your child doesn’t speak the language of your new country then you’ll need to check to find out if the school teaches in the child’s native language.
Check Transport
If you aren’t taking your car or driving isn’t as easy option then plan your route, are there bus services or trains that your children can use for example. Make sure to look into availability and cost.
Are You Moving Permanently
If you are moving permanently then a local school, close to home where they can make friends would be ideal. If however you might be moving on again in the near future, an International school might be a better option.
If you have a chance to, visit the schools before you choose. If not, can you call and speak directly to the school?
Of course children are very good at adapting to new situations but still, if they can settle easily into a new school then it will help the whole process of moving abroad run much more smoothly.
