Finding a school? first do your homework
If you are moving to the Middle East with your family, choosing a school is one of the most important things you will do.
With a wide choice of private establishments offering US, UK and other curriculums - and fees often paid by your employer - children are likely to receive an education as good as, if not better than, the schooling they would receive at home. They will leave with the necessary qualifications for university in their native country, but having had the full cultural experience of studying abroad.
Educating children of the Middle East expat community has become a growth business. From a handful of schools a few decades ago, there are now hundreds, including one of the leading independent schools in England, Brighton College, which opens its first overseas campus in Abu Dhabi in September. Other renowned schools are St Christopher's in Bahrain and the American School of Dubai, founded over 40 years ago and the oldest US establishment in the emirate.
Historic links with the UK mean British schools are common in the region and are sought after by expatriates and many locals. Go to British Schools in the Middle East (bsme.org.uk) for a listing.
Source: Flight International
