Four benefits of International schooling
International schooling offers children living abroad the opportunity to complete their education as part of an international framework. Typically, these types of schools are attended by children who are members of an expat community, but local students may also enrol to prepare them for further courses or employment in another country.
International schools can provide children with a unique level of support for both their personal growth and their academic development. This can result in attendees becoming more well-rounded, active members of society, with a deeper appreciation for the world around them. For this reason, qualifications gained from well-respected international schools will be looked upon fondly by potential future employers – amongst other advantages.
In this post, we run through four key benefits of attending an international school, exploring how they can help to set children up for a more successful future in the increasingly globalised world of work.
A global perspective
With the world being more interconnected than ever, it’s important that the next generation grow up with a broader understanding of the world we live in, to break down the barriers between borders.
A common feature of international schools is a more holistic and inclusive approach to the curriculum. While essential aspects of the national curriculum will still be taught, most institutions also take lessons and topics from other educational systems around the world. This approach to teaching can be extremely rewarding for young pupils who are only just starting to form their worldview. Being exposed to a more global perspective may help to expand the horizons of children, and prepare them for a world of work without boundaries.
Improved linguistic skills
Both through their lessons and any interactions with multilingual classmates, children can learn and perfect new languages at international schools. These institutions will commonly place an emphasis on bilingual learning, giving children plenty of opportunity to develop this important skill.
Being comfortable speaking and reading multiple languages is an extremely valuable skill for people to master, especially as they enter the job market. Multilingual professionals are likely to find more doors open for them as they start and progress through their careers. In addition, learning a new language can vastly enhance your cognitive functions which could translate to better academic performance and bring about many more benefits in everyday life.
Personal growth and independence
Another of the key benefits of enrolling in an international school is the opportunity to gain greater independence – a valuable commodity for maturing children. In an international school, you or your child will be part of a diverse student community, which champions different perspectives, cultures and backgrounds.
This multicultural environment encourages students to expand their horizons, embrace new perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures and backgrounds. Being part of a multicultural community not only enhances their empathy and tolerance but also fosters adaptability and open-mindedness.
International schools also often offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, leadership programs, and community service opportunities that allow students to explore their passions, develop their talents, and build essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These valuable opportunities give children the chance to become active members of a global community, helping to prepare them for a more prosperous career, unrestricted by potential international barriers.
Prioritising wellbeing
Moving to a different country can present lots of unique challenges to the mental wellbeing of adults and children alike. In order to best look after your wellbeing while abroad, it’s important to feel as comfortable as possible in your new surroundings, and integrating into a vibrant student community is an excellent way to do just that. In addition, knowing your child will be in a supportive educational environment will be reassuring for expat parents.
With a focus on holistic education, international schools prioritise the overall wellbeing and character development of students, nurturing their confidence, independence, and resilience. The exposure to different learning approaches and teaching methodologies further cultivates critical thinking, creativity, and a thirst for knowledge – all skills that can have a positive impact of children’s formative years.
In these ways, international schools provide a supportive and enriching environment that empowers students to become well-rounded individuals ready to thrive as they blaze their own trails across the world.
Educating a more globalised generation
Moving to a foreign country can be an unsettling time for children and there’s a lot of important decisions you as parents will need to make. Primarily, where you choose for them to receive their education will play a pivotal role in defining their personality as they grow up. International schooling can encourage children to view the world through an entirely different set of eyes, encouraging them to be more open-minded.
If you think that an international school may be the best option for your child, make sure to thoroughly research the local institutions before making a decision, and if they’re old enough, be sure to consider their opinion as well.
Author bio: Phoebe Lawrence
Having relocated herself at an early age, Phoebe offers a valuable perspective on the joys and challenges of expat life. Now pursuing a career in digital marketing, Phoebe holds her experience of international schooling in extremely high regard, believing it contributed greatly to her professional and personal development.
