We all know that education is the cornerstone of a bright future, so enrolling a child in a notable school can have many long-lasting benefits.
International schools are growing in popularity as parents in the UK increasingly recognise the advantages of enrolling their children in a school that can provide a diverse and inclusive environment for its pupils. Some international schools also offer the option of a multilingual education.
Absolutely shares the seven benefits of an international school education for young children.
A global curriculum
International schools typically follow a globally recognized curriculum, not centred on the educational system of just one country.
As they work hand-in-hand with the goals promoted by the International Baccalaureate, there is an implicit understanding of the importance of broadening and enriching children’s cultural awareness. This pursuit of a global education ensures that students receive a well-rounded experience that transcends national borders, preparing them for success in many areas of life.
TASIS England Lower School offers an individualised curriculum enriched by a broad co-curricular program. “The aim is not simply for children to gain knowledge, but for them to acquire the skills necessary to become passionate, life-long learners who are actively engaged with the world around them,” says Melodi Jordan, Head of Lower School.
Language acquisition
If learning new languages is high on your agenda for your child, an international school that provides instruction in more than one language can give them the best start.
Learning in a multilingual environment helps with the process of language acquisition by taking away the mystery, immersing students in the daily use of a language, and making learning new vocabulary fun. In this way, an international education can give children a unique set of skills to use as they grow.
As the use of technology and social media shrinks the world and blurs its boundaries, fluency in different languages and the ability to relate confidently with a global audience can be valuable assets throughout your children’s lifetimes.
Building relationships and interpersonal skills
Interacting with peers from around the world creates a deep appreciation for difference and diversity, which in turn builds strong relationships, partnerships, and valuable interpersonal skills.
Through teamwork and communication, children learn to acknowledge and respect divergent points of view and, as a result, begin to have a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. The cooperative skills they develop can open up future opportunities for students to engage in cross-cultural projects, exchange programs, and collaborative initiatives – particularly useful if they wish to study at a university abroad.
Melodi Jordan says, “TASIS England promotes the exploration, sharing, and celebration of different cultures and ideas. Offering young learners opportunities to engage with others in this way helps them to develop a rich perspective of the world and enables them to approach new and challenging situations with skill and confidence.”
A community experience
Enrolling your child in an international school means being in step with the implicit sense of community that is created when people with a wide range of backgrounds and cultural experiences come together with a shared purpose.
Children generally show remarkable adaptability and readily form bonds with peers from every corner of the globe. In this accepting and stimulating environment, children will flourish. Discerning parents may also discover the chance to cultivate friendships and a sense of community with families who, much like themselves, embrace the enriching ethos of global education.
Critical thinking skills
An inquiring mind and lateral thinking skills are highly important to achieve success in business, creative, personal, and professional pursuits in the modern world. The multi-dimensional view inherent in international education nurtures free thinkers and promotes independent and analytical thought processes.
The challenging academic programmes offered by international schools enable students to learn through dynamic cycles of inquiry, action, and reflection. Children who are encouraged to be risk-takers, eager to try new things and explore their talents and interests, become students who are open-minded, principled, and reflective. The strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning also develops practical skills, helping to boost self-confidence.
“We strive to meet the needs of each child by focusing on their unique strengths, interests, and learning style,” explains Melodi Jordan. “By providing personalised learning pathways within our challenging curriculum, we encourage academic excellence and enable students to gain confidence and thrive.”
Extracurricular opportunities
Beyond academia, international schools offer a diverse range of extracurricular activities. Students of all ages build confidence, independence, and lasting friendships as they engage in a variety of sports, clubs, and the arts. Sports competitions and performances showcase their developing skills and creative talents.
In addition to competing locally, Varsity Team members regularly travel to participate in international sports tournaments. Students often mention the resulting sense of teamwork and cultural exchange as a highlight of their time at school.
Leadership and community service opportunities are equally important, in keeping with the International Baccalaureate’s mission of developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world. At TASIS England, even the youngest students are encouraged to positively impact their school and local communities.
Cultural diversity
Young students at international schools quickly grow to appreciate and respect a broad spectrum of customs, traditions, and perspectives beyond those of their own households. Melodi Jordan observes, “As children forge life-long friendships with others from around the world, they learn to respect and value differences – key to their future success as global citizens.”
By choosing an international school, parents can expose their children to a global perspective from an early age, bestowing them with an international mindset and the confidence they will need as they prepare for all aspects of adulthood – from the boardroom to the badminton court!
This is a sponsored post created in collaboration with TASIS England, an international, independent day and boarding school near London.
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