Bahrain, a small island nation in the Persian Gulf, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and excellent educational institutions. It’s a popular destination for expatriates from all over the world, many of whom choose to send their children to international schools. These schools offer a diverse curriculum, often following the British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB) system, and provide a multicultural environment that fosters global awareness and understanding. In this blog post, we will delve into the top 5 international schools in Bahrain that you need to know about.
1. The British School of Bahrain
About the School
The British School of Bahrain (BSB) is a leading international school that offers a British-style education to students from over 70 different nationalities. Established in 1995, the school has a strong reputation for academic excellence and a holistic approach to education.
BSB follows the English National Curriculum from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through to A-Level. The school is known for its high academic standards, with students consistently achieving above-average results in their GCSE and A-Level examinations.
Facilities and Extra-Curricular Activities
BSB boasts state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, art studios, music rooms, and sports facilities. The school encourages students to participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities, from sports and arts to community service and leadership programmes, fostering well-rounded individuals.
Compared to other international schools in the region, BSB stands out for its strong emphasis on character development and its vibrant, inclusive community.
2. St. Christopher’s School
About the School
St. Christopher’s School is another top-tier international school in Bahrain that follows the British curriculum. Founded in 1961, it has a long-standing reputation for providing high-quality education to students of all ages.
The school offers the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. St. Christopher’s is renowned for its academic rigour and its commitment to nurturing the individual talents and interests of each student.
Facilities and Extra-Curricular Activities
St. Christopher’s School features impressive facilities such as a theatre, swimming pools, sports fields, and specialist rooms for music, art, and design. The school offers a plethora of extra-curricular activities, allowing students to explore their passions outside the classroom.
St. Christopher’s School is often compared to BSB for its academic excellence, but it also stands out for its strong focus on creative arts and its commitment to community service.
3. The American School of Bahrain
About the School
The American School of Bahrain (ASB) is a relatively new addition to the international school scene in Bahrain, having opened its doors in 2020. Despite its recent establishment, the school has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative approach to education.
ASB follows the American curriculum, offering a comprehensive educational programme from Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is committed to providing a nurturing learning environment that promotes critical thinking, creativity, and global citizenship.
Facilities and Extra-Curricular Activities
ASB boasts a modern campus with cutting-edge facilities, including a design and innovation lab, a performing arts centre, and an athletics complex. The school offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities, from robotics and coding to drama and music.
While ASB may not have the long history of BSB or St. Christopher’s, it is quickly making a name for itself with its forward-thinking approach to education and its emphasis on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).
4. The International School of Choueifat
About the School
The International School of Choueifat (ISC) is part of the global SABIS Network, which operates in 20 countries across the world. ISC has been providing quality education in Bahrain since 1983, following a unique, proprietary curriculum that blends elements of Western and Eastern educational philosophies.
ISC’s curriculum prepares students for the SAT, TOEFL, and IELTS examinations, as well as the American high school diploma and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. The school is known for its rigorous academic programme and its high expectations of students.
Facilities and Extra-Curricular Activities
ISC features a range of facilities, including science labs, computer labs, a library, and sports facilities. The school offers a variety of extra-curricular activities, with a particular focus on academic clubs and competitions.
Compared to other international schools in Bahrain, ISC stands out for its unique curriculum and its strong focus on academic achievement.
5. Riffa Views International School
About the School
Riffa Views International School (RVIS) is a non-profit, college preparatory school that offers an American-style education with an international perspective. The school was established in 2008 and serves students from Nursery through Grade 12.
RVIS follows the American curriculum and also offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. The school is known for its small class sizes, personalised learning approach, and commitment to incorporating Bahraini culture and traditions into its curriculum.
Facilities and Extra-Curricular Activities
RVIS boasts a spacious campus with state-of-the-art facilities, including a performing arts centre, science labs, and sports facilities. The school offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities, from sports and arts to academic clubs and community service projects.
While RVIS may not be as well-known as some of the other schools on this list, it is highly regarded for its warm, welcoming community and its commitment to cultural inclusivity.
Conclusion
Choosing the right school for your child is a significant decision, and Bahrain offers a wealth of excellent options. Whether you’re looking for a school with a British, American, or international curriculum, a strong focus on academics, arts, sports, or character development, you’re sure to find a school in Bahrain that meets your needs.
Remember, the best way to get a feel for a school is to visit in person. So why not schedule a tour of a few schools and see for yourself what they have to offer? Happy school hunting!
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