International schools are one of the ideal learning environments that any parent would want to enroll their children in. However, nowadays, there are many different types of international schools. Each type of school will have a teaching method and operational structure that has many distinct differences. Through today’s article, International School Saigon Pearl will help you learn in detail about the popular types of international schools today.
How many types of international schools around the world?
An international school is a type of school that not only focuses on education according to the national curriculum but also incorporates international elements into their teaching and learning. International schools typically have teachers and students from many different countries, creating a multicultural learning environment. In addition, international schools often have different teaching and evaluation standards compared to traditional schools in the country.
Nowadays, parents tend to enroll their children in international schools, especially at the preschool age. This can bring some benefits for children such as:
- Exposure to diverse cultures and languages: International schools often have students from various countries, which provides an opportunity for children to learn about different cultures and languages. This exposure can help children develop a global perspective and appreciate diversity.
- Multicultural learning environment: Children will have access to many different languages and cultures during their learning process. This helps children to develop an open-minded attitude and respect for the diverse cultures.
- Developing English language skills: International schools often use English as the primary language of instruction. This is a good opportunity for children to develop language skills and gain confidence in communicating in English.
- Comprehensive education: The education program in international schools is often comprehensive, including education in the arts, physical education, personality development, and life skills. This helps children to develop all aspects of themselves.
- Study abroad opportunities: International schools also provide opportunities for children to study abroad or participate in international study programs, allowing them to have new experiences and learn from different educational systems.
- Development of social skills: International schools often provide opportunities for children to interact with students from different backgrounds, which can help them develop social skills such as empathy, respect, and communication.
In fact, there is not just one type of international school, but international schools can be divided into many different types. Therefore, parents need to carefully research information about different types of international schools to make an appropriate choice for their children. Here are some popular types of international schools today:
- American International Schools
- Canadian International Schools
- British International Schools
- IB International Schools
Overall, international schools provide a unique educational experience that prepares students for success in a global society. They offer a multicultural learning environment, a recognized international curriculum, and a range of opportunities for personal and academic development.
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What are the different types of International School?
As mentioned, international schools are divided into different types based on the school’s organizational structure and curriculum. Below are the differences between different types of international schools:
American International Schools
American International Schools are a type of international school that follows an American educational curriculum, which is based on the standards and practices of education in the United States. These schools are usually accredited by American educational organizations and provide modern and advanced teaching programs.
Beside that, American International Schools apply a teaching method that focuses primarily on critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity for students. Additionally, these schools often organize many extracurricular activities such as sports, music, drama, and community service. English is usually used as the language of instruction at American International Schools, but schools may also offer foreign language courses.
>> Read more: How to Raise a Multilingual Child
Canadian International Schools
One of the other popular different types of international schools today is Canadian International Schools. Canada is considered one of the countries with high-quality education. Therefore, Canadian International Schools often follow the high educational standards of Canada and are accredited by reputable educational organizations.
These schools usually have a team of professional teachers who are trained to teach according to Canadian educational standards and methods. The schools set comprehensive education goals that focus on developing necessary skills for students, including critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, social skills, and other soft skills.
Another highlight of Canadian International Schools is that they offer diverse teaching programs, including General programs, IB (International Baccalaureate Program), and other special programs, providing students with many options for their learning journey.
Last but not least, Canadian international schools provide a unique educational experience that combines academic rigor with a focus on student well-being, multiculturalism, and environmental sustainability. They prepare students for success in a global society and promote the values of diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility.
>> Read more: How does personalized education at ISSP help students develop comprehensively?
British International Schools
British International Schools follow the British educational system, which is renowned for its high standards and quality of education. The schools offer globally recognized qualifications such as IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) and A-Levels (Advanced Level), which are highly valued by universities and employers worldwide.
The primary language of instruction in these schools is typically English, which helps students develop strong English language skills. This is particularly beneficial for students who plan to study at English-speaking universities or work in international environments.
On the other hand, British International Schools provide a holistic education that focuses on the development of the whole student, including their academic, social, emotional, and physical well-being. In addition to academic excellence, these schools regularly organize diverse extracurricular activities such as sports, music, drama, and community service, providing students with opportunities to develop their interests and skills outside of the classroom.
Overall, British international schools aim to provide a high-quality British education to students living abroad, preparing them for further study or employment in the UK or other countries around the world.
IB International Schools
IB International Schools are also a prominent name among other popular different types of international schools. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools teach the IB curriculum, which is recognized worldwide and focuses on developing critical thinking, inquiry, and problem-solving skills. Such a teaching style also creates opportunities to encourage students to become responsible global citizens. The school’s IB program also emphasizes the development of the whole student, including their academic, social, emotional, and physical well-being.
Additionally, the school encourages students to learn multiple languages, which helps them gain a broader perspective and deeper understanding of different cultures. Another distinctive feature of the IB program is its use of various assessment methods, including exams, essays, and oral presentations, to evaluate students’ learning. This provides a more comprehensive picture of students’ academic progress and abilities. In addition, the program requires students to participate in CAS activities, which involve creative pursuits, physical activities, and community service. This encourages students to develop a well-rounded personality and become active members of their communities.
International School Saigon Pearl – the IB School in HCMC
International School Saigon Pearl (ISSP) is known as a prestigious and high-quality international school for children from 18 months to 11 years old located in Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. In addition to being a member of the long-standing education Cognita Family with over 100 member schools worldwide, ISSP is also the first international preschool and elementary school in Ho Chi Minh City to be dual-accredited by two reputable accreditation organizations in the world – the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Currently, ISSP is also a member to teach the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) recognized globally.
>> Read more: The international learning environment at International School Saigon Pearl (ISSP)
The educational philosophy of “placing students at the center” is emphasized in the IB program at the school. By offering the IB PYP, ISSP provides a high-quality, internationally recognized education that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing global society. The program is designed to help students become lifelong learners who are knowledgeable, caring, and active global citizens. Additionally, ISSP provides many extracurricular activities and personal development programs, including cultural, sports, creative, ethical education, and community service activities with opportunities to develop their interests, skills, and character outside of the classroom.
The school also has modern facilities, including a library, science laboratories, computer rooms, and spacious playgrounds for students to support the school’s mission to provide high-quality education that also help to create a safe and comfortable learning environment that promotes student engagement and achievement.
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Different types of international schools may have different philosophies, curricula, teaching methods, and facilities. It is important for parents to carefully consider their children’s learning needs and preferences when choosing an international school. The International School Saigon Pearl in Binh Thanh district always welcomes parents and students to visit the school to have a deeper understanding of its activities. Parents can schedule a visit to ISSP through the following phone number and email:
- Phone number: +84 (028) 2222 7788.
- Email: admissions@issp.edu.vn
