Introduction

Bengaluru, the Silicon Valley of India, globally renowned for its technological advancements and thriving startup culture has always been one of the best destinations for global workforce. Expatriates relocating into foreign country face many challenges in settling in. Finding the right school for their children can be a significant challenge for expatriates relocating into this cosmopolitan city. We at IKAN Relocation Services India Pvt. Ltd. have successfully relocated over 1500 expatriate families globally. Being a leader in the relocation industry for over 25+ years we will help you navigate into the realm of international schools in Bengaluru, shedding light on why they are the preferred choice for many expat families seeking an international education for their children.

Academic Curriculum followed in international schools:

International schools in Bengaluru offer a diverse range of curricula, catering to the needs and preferences of international students and expat families. It is important to select the right curriculum for the children which aligns with their educational goals and aspirations. Here are some of the curricula widely practiced by international schools in Bengaluru.

• International Baccalaureate (IB): The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is an internationally recognized educational program that aims to develop students with a global perspective. Founded in 1968, the IB offers a range of programs for students aged 3 to 19, focusing on students’ intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills, promoting international-mindedness and a holistic approach to education. IB is widely recognized and implemented by many international schools in Bengaluru. It consists of three main programs: the Primary Years Program (PYP) for students aged 3 to 12, the Middle Years Program (MYP) for students aged 11 to 16, the Diploma Program (DP) and the Career-related Program (CP) for students aged 16 to 19.

• Cambridge International Examination (CIE): The Cambridge International Examination (CIE) curriculum is another popular choice among international schools in Bengaluru. CIE is an international assessment program administered by Cambridge Assessment, a department of the University of Cambridge. CIE offers a comprehensive range of qualifications and assessments for students aged 5 to 19, enabling them to progress from primary to pre-university levels. The curriculum emphasizes academic rigor, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Students can pursue qualifications such as the Cambridge Primary for students aged 5 to 11, Cambridge Lower Secondary for students aged 11 to 14, Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) for students aged 14 to 16, and Cambridge International AS and A Levels for students aged 16 to 19, AS – Advanced Subsidiary Level represents the first year of study, while A – Advanced Level represents the second year. The program fosters independent research, analytical thinking, and preparation for higher education

• Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE): The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum is the national curriculum of India. Established in 1962, the CBSE is governed by the Union Government of India through the Ministry of Education. While not specifically an international curriculum, many international schools in Bengaluru offer the CBSE curriculum to cater to families seeking a strong foundation in Indian education. The CBSE curriculum follows a structured approach and focuses on a wide range of subjects, including languages, sciences, mathematics, social sciences, and arts for students aged 5 to 19.

• International Primary Curriculum (IPC): Developed by Fieldwork Education in 2009, the IPC is implemented in schools worldwide and aims to provide an engaging and relevant learning experience for students The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) is designed for students aged 5 to 11 and focuses on a thematic and cross-curricular approach to learning. The International Primary Curriculum is implemented in schools around the world, including international schools, bilingual schools, and schools following an English-medium curriculum. It offers a flexible framework that can be adapted to meet the needs of diverse student populations and allows schools to integrate local and national requirements while maintaining an international focus. It is often used in conjunction with other curricula, such as the IB PYP or national curricula.

• Montessori: Montessori education is an educational approach developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, in the early 20th century. It is based on the belief that children are naturally curious, self-directed learners who possess an innate desire to explore and discover the world around them. Many international schools in Bengaluru also follow the Montessori method of education, particularly at the early childhood level. The Montessori curriculum emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning and self-directed exploration. It fosters independence, self-discipline, and a love for learning by providing a prepared environment and a carefully structured curriculum that aligns with the developmental needs of young children. Montessori classrooms typically include mixed-age groups of children spanning three-year age ranges, such as 3-6, 6-9, and 9-12 years. This setup fosters peer learning, collaboration, and a sense of community. Younger children learn from older peers, while older children reinforce their learning by guiding younger ones.

• Other Curricula: In addition, there are international schools in Bengaluru that may follow country-specific curricula, such as American, British, Australian, or Canadian curricula. These curricula are often in conjunction with any of the above-mentioned curricula and provide a seamless transition for students who may be relocating from or planning to pursue higher education in those countries.

Common challenges faced during school search and to how to overcome them:

Finding a suitable school for expatriate families in Bengaluru can pose some challenges. Navigating the challenges of finding the right school in Bengaluru as an expatriate requires assistance and guidance from well-known destination service providers. By being proactive and seeking assistance when needed, you can overcome these challenges and find a suitable school for your child in Bengaluru. At IKAN Relocation Services India Pvt. Ltd., we have a team of expert consultants who have done thorough research on international schools in Bengaluru and have assisted over 1500 expatriates find the right school for their children.

• Cultural and Language Differences: Expatriate families may face cultural and language barriers when searching for schools in Bengaluru. Understanding the local education system, curriculum, and language of instruction can be daunting. Conduct thorough research about the education system in Bengaluru, including the types of schools available, curriculum options, and language requirements. Seek advice from other expatriate families, online forums, or local expatriate communities for insights and recommendations. Arrange school visits or virtual meetings to ask questions and assess if the school is a good fit for your child.

• Availability of International Schools: While Bengaluru has a range of international schools, availability and admission procedures may vary. Some popular international schools may have limited vacancies or long waiting lists, making it challenging to secure a spot. Start your school search well in advance and consider applying for admission as early as possible. Contact schools ahead of time to understand their application process, admission criteria, and timelines. This will give you a better chance of securing a place for your child.

• Distance and Commute: Bengaluru’s traffic congestion can pose challenges in terms of school commutes. Some international schools may be located far from residential areas, leading to long travel times. While choosing a school, consider its proximity to your residence or potential neighbourhoods. Opting for a school closer to your home can minimize commuting time and allow your child to have more time for extracurricular activities and rest.

• Adjustment to a New Education System: Adapting to a different education system can be overwhelming for both parents and children. Differences in teaching methods, grading systems, and educational expectations can present challenges. Look for schools that offer support services for expatriate students, such as orientation programs, language support, and cultural integration initiatives. These resources can help ease the transition and aid in understanding and navigating the new education system.