Written By Anshima | Edited By Varsha & Adi | Updated on 16th Jan 2024
If you’re unsure about picking a national or international school for your child, don’t worry. You’re not alone in feeling this way. International schools seem more like a mystery, with very little information on how they function and what sets them apart. As parents, many of us wonder if international education is the right choice for our children, as this concept is relatively new to us. We tend to stick to traditional education because we are more familiar with it. We have come up with this blog that will discuss “how international schools are different and what points to consider before choosing the right one for your child.
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Quick Summary
How are international schools different?
- Global Curriculum
- Exposure to Different Cultures
- Modern Teaching Methods
- Skills that you can’t learn from Books
- Language Opportunities
- Global Networks
- Holistic Development
- Infrastructure
- University Recognition
- Fee Structure
Our Selection Proces
How are International schools different?
International schools are for students from different countries, including students in their own country who might go abroad later. These schools are often private, and the curriculum they offer is like
- IGCSE ( International General Certificate of Secondary Education) or Cambridge Curriculum
- IB International Baccalaureate program is certified by an organization based in Switzerland and accredited by the Council of International Schools.
On the other hand, national schools are schools that are located in their own country and serve students who share the same cultural background. They follow the curriculum designed for that specific country. In India, we have two school types:
- Public Schools or Government Schools
- Private Schools
Public or government schools usually follow the State Board Curriculum, for example, Delhi Board, Maharashtra Board, U.P Board, etc. whereas Private schools mostly follow the Central Board Curriculum, for example, CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education), ISCE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education), etc.
1. Global Curriculum
1. Global Curriculum
In a global curriculum, we get to learn from all around the world about things that people do and think in different countries. International schools are the ones that offer this kind of education through IB and IGCSE curricula. Let’s see how
- In these curricula, students don’t just remember facts but become great thinkers. It’s like going on a treasure hunt for knowledge, where they ask questions, solve problems, dive deep into topics to find more, and finally master it.
- Instead of just taking tests and exams, students learn through projects and ongoing assignments. It helps them stay curious and keep learning every day.
- International curricula let students learn about people, places, and ideas from all over the world. It widens their understanding and encourages them to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
2. Exposure to Different Cultures
2. Exposure to Different Cultures
Imagine your child in a classroom with friends all over the world. They share stories of how they celebrate some special days, the food, festivals, and traditions they follow. It’s like a mini United Nations within a classroom. Isn’t that interesting? In international schools, understanding various cultures isn’t just from books, it’s a natural part of daily school life. Whether it’s Diwali, Eid, Chinese New Year, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Hanukkah, International Schools ensure students take part in these festivities so that students can experience them. It makes learning fun and teaches kids to be open and respectful to everyone.
3. Modern Teaching Methods
3. Modern Teaching Methods
Unlike traditional schools where students sit in rows, listen to lectures, and memorize facts, international schools and Evolving schools encourage kids to ask questions, explore topics, and even work on exciting projects. For example, they might explore a real-world problem, like pollution. They’ll research, conduct experiments, and come up with solutions. It’s like being a detective, solving mysteries, and inventing new things. And guess what? No more heavy backpacks filled with textbooks as they use technology like tablets and computers for research. And the most compelling thing is that students work in teams where they learn to collaborate, share ideas, and solve problems.
4. Skills that you can’t learn from Books
4. Skills that you can’t learn from Books
International schools focus on teaching students practical life skills that go beyond what’s in the textbooks. The school ensures that students talk, discuss, and present. It helps them speak confidently, express their ideas without fear of judgment, and even debate like pros. In the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, students don’t just learn facts and figures, but they develop valuable skills that help them adapt to new situations and face challenges with confidence. As a result, they grow as individuals who are not only self-assured but also caring and responsible.
One key element in the IB curriculum is community service. It’s all about lending a helping hand and doing good things for others without expecting anything in return. It’s like learning to be kind, responsible, and caring to the people around you.
5. Language Opportunities
5. Language Opportunities
International schools create a diverse, multilingual environment where students from various cultural backgrounds come together. This exposure allows children to interact with peers who speak different languages, providing a natural language learning environment. They can study multiple foreign languages like French, Spanish, and German, including their native tongue. International schools often employ native speakers and language coaches. These experts not only teach languages effectively but also provide cultural insights, enhancing the learning experience. They also provide foreign language certifications such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the Cambridge Assessment International Education. These certifications are recognized globally and can open doors to higher education and career opportunities.
6. Global Networks
6. Global Networks
International schools also connect with other schools all over the world. These connections help students learn about different communities and their cultures and make new friends worldwide.
How do they do it?
- Schools participate in international events, such as Model United Nations conferences, global sports tournaments, and cultural festivals. These events bring students from various countries together and encourage cross-cultural communication.
- International schools often invite guest speakers, including experts from different countries, to give lectures and conduct workshops. These interactions broaden their perspective.
- Students from different international schools collaborate on projects, which can be anything from science experiments to art exhibitions. This cross-border collaboration improves creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Through global networks, students can access information about foreign universities and career opportunities worldwide. They may even receive assistance in finding scholarships or internships.
7. Holistic Development
7. Holistic Development
Holistic development includes 4 main aspects
- Intellectual development
- Physical development
- Emotional development
- Social development
What do International schools do?
- Since International Schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to arts, music, and more, this diversity allows students to explore their interests and develop new skills outside the classroom.
- Apart from academic excellence, international schools are focused on nurturing soft skills like critical thinking, communication, leadership, and problem-solving.
- They encourage students to expand their thinking beyond the boundaries of any country or culture and promote open-mindedness and sensitivity for each other.
- The majority of international schools engage students in community service and social initiatives. This hands-on experience helps them understand social issues, develop empathy, and become responsible global citizens.
- They often provide personalized guidance and counseling to students under their inclusive program. It helps to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations, allowing for tailored development plans. The student-to-teacher ratio is quite balanced in these schools so that each student can get individual attention.
8. Infrastructure
8. Infrastructure
International schools ensure that kids have access to top-notch labs, well-equipped libraries, places for acting and dancing, sports areas, and even outdoor classrooms. All these spots help students explore, try new things, and get good at different fields. Many international schools are also residential schools, offering excellent facilities to accommodate students from both India and other countries. You might have a question like, does this matter? Well, it’s a big deal because it gives students a chance to find their talents. Maybe someone loves science experiments, while another is a theater genius. These cool facilities help students become more creative, think critically, and solve problems. It’s like they’re on a journey to discover their passions and develop life skills.
9. University Recognition
9. University Recognition
The best part of international school education is that it opens doors to universities around the world. International schools typically use the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge Assessment International Education, which is recognized by universities globally. It means that students from international schools can apply to universities not only in their home country but also in other countries where they might want to study. Enrolling in IB or IGCSE programs can make it easier for students to gain admission to prestigious international universities. If your child dreams of studying abroad, the global recognition of their education can be a game-changer, opening doors to universities worldwide.
10. Fee Structure
10. Fee Structure
Studying in an International school can be a bit costly. As parents, it’s natural to question why education in an International school is so expensive. Here are some key reasons behind their higher costs.
- These schools invest in modern infrastructure, from state-of-the-art classrooms to well-equipped libraries and sports facilities. That needs a lot of investment.
- International curricula like IB and IGCSE require special training and accreditation, which adds to the overall expenses.
- Many international schools have teachers with international teaching experience, commanding higher salaries due to their expertise.
- Additionally, international schools provide holistic development by offering a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, the arts, and other areas. Running and managing these programs adds to the school’s budget.
- For instance, the academic fees of some renowned international schools are as follows-
Oakridge International School: The annual tuition fee is ₹2,20,000 New Baldwin International School: The annual tuition fee is ₹1,44,000. While most schools have a somewhat similar fee structure, there may be variations based on the student’s grade.
Choosing the right fit
- International schools often use programs like IB or IGCSE. Understand the school’s teaching methods to ensure they align with your child’s educational requirements.
- Go check out the school in person. This way, you can see where your child will learn, meet the teachers, and get a sense of the atmosphere. Pay attention to things like classrooms and resources.
- Ensure the school has approval from respected international organizations for quality education recognized by global universities.
- A smaller student-to-teacher ratio means more attention for your child. Ask about how many students are in each class and the teacher’s qualifications.
- Don’t forget to see what sports and extracurricular activities the school has. These are important for your child’s all-around development.
Final Thoughts
We noticed that international schools typically attract a diverse crowd of students from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds, creating a unique blend of diversity. Although the fees may be higher, the experiences they offer are valuable. It helps kids become open-minded, learn about the world, and be ready for a global future. If you want a high-quality education that goes beyond books and classrooms, international schools are a great choice and a good investment for your child.
What’s Next
We suggest asking yourselves, ‘What do you want for your kid in Bangalore?’ Make a list of the ‘must haves’ and the ‘nice to haves.’
Also, don’t be shy, talk to everyone! Friends and neighbors in Bangalore may have some thoughts. Check online too, but remember, reviews are like opinions, everyone’s got one! Oh, school visits! Take a tour, meet the teachers, ask questions, and see if it clicks in Bangalore. Open houses are super helpful too, you’ll learn about what they teach and meet other parents.
And don’t forget the money talk school fees are just the tip of the iceberg in Bangalore. There are uniforms, field trips, and the occasional surprise costs. Stay on top of the applications, they may be followed by an interview. When it comes to interviews, just being yourself is the key, even for kids.
But really, you can’t go wrong with any of these Bangalore schools, as they are the best in Bangalore. Let us know which one you end up enrolling your kid in!
Varsha & Adi
Hi, we are Varsha and Adi, and we’re on a mission to help parents make the right choice for their kids’ education. Picking a school is like a 10-year commitment, and we realized parents needed clear, no-nonsense info. That’s why we created Candid Schools, where you can get the real deal on schools without the fancy jargon. Our goal is simple: to give parents the info they need to make the best choice for their little ones.
