The country has a variety of excellent schools for both local and foreign families. Should you prefer international education, educating your children in more than one language or a special teaching technique, you can find schools in Belgium that fit your family’s needs. Belgium is home to many people from different countries. So, if you are bringing your family to Belgium, you can choose from a large number of childcare options. British, American, European and bilingual curricula are available at some schools, while others follow the Montessori style.
Because they are popular among expats, the fees at international schools in Belgium are usually quite high. Different schools provide different courses and facilities for students. You should gather all the details before making up your mind. This guide is designed to support you in choosing the best school for your child.
Leading International and Bilingual Schools in Belgium
There is usually a greater variety of facilities and extra activities at international schools than at public schools. They set high standards for education and give students internationally recognised awards such as the International Baccalaureate, GCSEs and American high school diplomas.
When you apply to a college or job outside Belgium, these qualifications will help you a lot. A few also offer boarding facilities and tailored programs and facilities for children with special educational needs (SEN).
Antwerp International School
Antwerp International School is well known for providing high-quality education for kids 3–18 who are living abroad. AIS is the only Belgian school with modern facilities and personalised instruction that teaches all three levels of the International Baccalaureate. At Antwerp International School, all children can reach their full potential.
Schools are accredited by international organisations, for example:
- Council of International Schools (CoIS).
- European Council of International Schools (ECIS).
- Middle States Association (MSA).
Check if the school is accredited before you sign up your child.
International schools in Belgium cater to a range of ages, with some offering education from preschool to age 18, and others focusing on only pre- and primary (up to age 12), sometimes with additional middle school teaching (up to age 15).
Different kinds of international schools and their certificates in Belgium
Many different educational curricula and certificates are available at international schools in Belgium. It’s worth noting that in preparing for higher education (ages 16–18), some schools offer more than one stream for students to choose from. The following paragraphs cover the most common curricula in schools.
International Primary Curriculum (IPC)
The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) is taught to children aged between 3–12 years in 65 countries worldwide. Students focus on important skills instead of separate subjects, according to the curriculum. The topics found in these areas, including Rainforest, are meant to increase cultural awareness in learners. The curriculum involves developing the child’s feelings, spirituality and understanding by promoting exploration, making things and active learning.
Students work towards learning certain knowledge and skills in their subjects. Personal aims help people improve their traits. Assessment happens in different ways and continues throughout the learning process. The evaluations are mainly done at the mileposts throughout the journey. During the ages of 5–7, 7–9 and 9–11, the child’s developmental stage can be assessed.
The International Baccalaureate (IB)
The International Baccalaureate (IB) follows similar educational guidelines to the IPC, with a strong focus on personal development and critical thinking. The IB offers a Primary Years Program (3–12), a Middle Years Program (11–16) and a Diploma or Careers Related Program (16–19). Although the IB is taught mainly in English, students start learning a new language from when they are 7 years old. Since the IB curriculum is used globally, Belgian schools teaching it are a common choice for families who move. IB curriculum programs can be found at these schools:
Antwerp International School
They consider both personal development and learning progress. In secondary school, the approach is tougher because students sit for two examinations every year, which are combined with classroom assessments from age 11 to 18. The IB Diploma Program provides a demanding academic course that helps students prepare for college. Degrees from IB Diploma programs are valued by universities all over the world. The Careers Related Program equips students to pursue a particular career, like Business.
The British School of Brussels (BSB) – Tervuren
Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A-Levels) and International Baccalaureate (IB)
Ages: 1–18
Highlights: Considered one of Europe’s best international schools, BSB provides bilingual English/French courses and boasts excellent sports equipment such as a 25m swimming pool and a gymnastics arena.
International School of Flanders (ISF) – Waterloo
Curriculum: International Primary Curriculum (IPC), Cambridge IGCSE
Ages: 2.5–18
Highlights: ISF places a strong focus on technology integration, as it is a Google for Education School in Belgium, and all students receive daily French lessons.
Brussels International Catholic School (BICS) – Brussels
Curriculum: Cambridge International, Belgian curriculum.
Ages: Pre-primary to Secondary.
Highlights: BICS combines teaching in English and French with Catholic values and provides a strong academic program where classes are kept small.
European School, Brussels I (ESB1) – Uccle
Curriculum: European Baccalaureate.
Ages: 4–18.
Highlights: ESB1 mainly supports the children of EU staff and teaches in different European languages to promote diversity and outstanding education.
Notable local schools with international appeal
They include:
The Owl Academy – Mortsel (Antwerp)
Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A-Levels), American High School Diploma
Ages: 11–18.
Highlights: The Owl Academy offers a variety of globally recognised programs, catering to diverse student needs and preparing them for international higher education. ([isbi][7])
International School Ghent – Ghent
Curriculum: British, International.
Ages: 3–16.
Highlights: ISG encourages cultural diversity and personalised learning while also engaging the community.
You may also find these articles helpful
Frequently Asked Questions on Belgium
Belgium immigration quotas and caps – what you need to know
