Going to an international school guarantees a better curriculum than regular schools. However, the education sector offers a variety of international schools you might enroll in. Each one has different policies to train students in facing the reality after school. The fact is that there is a massive growth in the number of international schools worldwide following unique systems and curriculums.
The distinction in curriculum plays a vital role for teachers planning to work abroad. It would be easier to teach in a format that they have a practical understanding of, however, international schools also offer training to qualify educators.
Common Types of International Schools
In case you are a student who wants to study in an international school or a teacher having a career shift, here is a list of options you might consider:
- Generic International Schools
This type of international school follows a global ideology of curriculum formats. It is unlike the succeeding categories which are under a specific market of students and educators. The main objective is to allow students to understand a wider culture to prepare them upon facing the real world. It differs from other international schools that adhere to the IB program and yet will develop global citizens in the coming years.
Three factors determine an international school – the staff, students, and curriculum. Nonetheless, a checklist of criteria was made to easily identify schools that qualify for an international standard.
The first measure to tell if it is an international school is if it uses the English language to teach students. This applies to countries that do not primarily speak English, like China. A combination of local and multinational staff is a good sign that a school is operating internationally. Lastly, students should be varied as well to fulfill the ultimate goal.
- American International Schools
The second type of international school is intended for American citizens. Parents who work abroad or private companies overseas can send their children to American schools. These are over 197 options located in cities around the world. Each school is under the U.S. State Department to ensure the best program for both students and teachers.
A total of 126,510 students had enrolled in 2010 wherein less than half of it were U.S citizens. It consists of a mixed staff with over 6,000 U.S. citizens.
Every student will pay tuition fees as the source of financing for American schools. Some funding comes from the local government, businesses, and other overseas schools. Nevertheless, a few international schools in America are not backed by the U.S. State Department for some reasons.
American schools are commonly private and non-profit. There are regional bodies involved in the operation to provide students with quality education. The faculty members are well-trained in using the English language. Additionally, it is easier for teachers to jump into a new curriculum with the help of the training.
The high standard of the American educational system prepares students to enter universities across the United States.
- Canadian International Schools
Your alternative option to pursue international education is to enroll in a Canadian school. The market will supply fewer establishments to choose from around the globe. Each option can assure students a quality education from elementary to secondary level.
The Canadian curriculum is excellent in equipping students to join schools abroad during college. Most of the teachers and staff are citizens of Canada and they utilize local materials to educate someone.
- British International Schools
This option is among the largest international schools in the world. It may not be obvious on the records as not all British schools are endowed by the state, especially those outside the U.K.
The only way to prove when the institution is operating to an international standard is through the Council of British International Schools or COBIS. They are responsible for getting British schools accredited for international education. It is safe to say that only hundreds of British schools are members of the COBIS, as per the records.
COBIS is even accountable for hiring teachers that have no criminal records to keep students safe. It strictly follows standards to recruit educators outside the U.K. with great effectiveness.
- International Baccalaureate Schools (IBS)
IB Schools are the gold standard in terms of international education. It boosts the level of uniformity among millions of students worldwide. This type of school offers more advanced credentials to get each student ready for higher education.
It has a distinct program that can be available even in non-international schools to improve the academic status of the students. It is called the Diploma Programme which applies to students having an IB diploma to take another six courses. These include:
● Creativity
Students can learn better when performing hands-on activities. This could be done outside classrooms to develop additional skills.
● Research
Writing a research paper requires studying a topic and it can be challenging. But, it helps to expand the knowledge of the student.
● Theoretical
Knowing the theories of different matters would benefit the succeeding years of the learning process.
Choosing an International School
Now that you have ideas about the different types of international schools, finding one can be crucial. The Bangkok Prep International School is among the good options to consider if you desire to enter a prestigious university later on. It features the most suitable facilities that will help you study better. It is made of staff who will provide quality education to encourage each student to pursue their dreams. Contact the management to settle all the requirements and get started.
