Starting or moving schools is always a big step, no matter the student’s age or location. Fortunately, 21st-century schools worldwide are increasingly geared towards geographic mobility and fluid student populations. Yet, finding the right school when relocating abroad remains one of the most challenging aspects of moving successfully. Parents often rely on local educational experts like Steps into Spain to provide detailed feedback on potential school options and ensure the best match for their children.
Here are some top tips for parents preparing to find a school abroad:
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Use social media – especially Facebook
Parents moving to a new country often turn to social media for firsthand information about schools they are considering. Despite its reputation of being old-fashioned and twee, especially when compared to Instagram, the fact is, Facebook triumphs when it comes to peer-to-peer information sharing. It is a practical platform to navigate and has many private groups that deal specifically with the school or area that you are looking at.
Blogs, (like this one in Steps into Spain 😉) are an excellent resource. They provide in-depth information on family life, schooling systems, local customs, curriculums, after-school activities, tutoring, socialising, and thriving as a family in a new country. It’s never too early to explore life abroad and start researching your new home.
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Contact local education authorities
Although the information they provide may be basic and sometimes only available in the official language of the land in which the schools are based, local education authority information packs are a good starting point for any parent wishing to get an overview of the options available for their children. Getting information about schools abroad from official sources ensures that the information is impartial, that the inspection details are transparent, and that all accreditation is available to consult.
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Take virtual tours
One of the unexpected advantages of the Covid-19 pandemic has been the enthusiastic adoption of online methods to communicate with parents who are interested in enrolling their children at a school the following academic year. Many schools have virtual tours available on their website. Others offer online information sessions where parents interact live with teachers and admissions officers at schools with places available. These virtual sessions provide parents with a real feel of the school that they are “visiting” and are much welcomed. Local educational experts like Steps into Spain keep updated information on all admissions events that may be of interest to their clients so that none slip through the net.
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Request lists of schools from the local embassy
Apart from the accredited British schools overseas that are listed by country on the Department of Education’s website, the local embassy of the country that you are moving to will have a list of all the international schools in the area – including those which teach the local syllabus or those that follow American, Scandinavian or French systems. Please note, however, that no British Embassy can recommend a particular school and all are reliant on information being provided to them by the schools themselves.
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Find a local educational expert
At the risk of blowing my own trumpet, there are many reasons why contacting a local educational expert is a sensible idea when seeking a school for your children overseas. Local educational experts have their ears to the ground. They know about deadlines and dates. They can help with paperwork. A local educational expert will have up to date, in depth information about all schools in their area. Syllabus and curriculum questions can be directed to them for comprehensive explanations. Tireless in their dedication to their clients, these experts not only provide an extra layer of confidence, but they also help save time along the way. Families working with Steps into Spain benefit from expert guidance, personalised advice, and confidence in their school choices.
No matter what stage of relocating abroad you are at with your children, expert guidance can make the process smoother and less stressful. If you’re preparing to move or considering schools for your family, get in touch today to explore your options and receive tailored support.
Not sure which type of school suits your child? That’s exactly where I come in. A quick 20-minute call is usually enough to point you in the right direction. Book your free call
I’m Sinéad Galvin, and at Steps into Spain, I help families cut through the confusion of Madrid’s school system and focus on what really matters for their child. As both a parent and former teacher who has visited more than 150 schools, I know that every family’s story is unique — and every school is too.
