A Private International School in Bahrain

There are several important factors for parents to consider when selecting a quality education in Bahrain.

• Qualified and experienced teachers who provide a positive learning environment that ultimately benefits students.

• A school with a culture of ongoing learning and collaboration where teachers prioritise their professional development, share best practices and ultimately engage and connect more with students. A school with an engaged team, a nurturing environment and a commitment to lifelong learning.

• Schools in Bahrain with international curriculums. It is important to understand the options available and choose an academically challenging curriculum that is child-centric but is not overwhelming.

• A number of private schools in Bahrain offer extracurricular activities. Taking part in sports, music, arts programmes and other after-school activities provides an opportunity to build teamwork skills, bond with other students and explore various interests. These activities can also enhance the personality and moral values of the students. It is important to assess what is on offer as these activities contribute to a better learning process and develop well-rounded individuals.

• A school with a clear set of values that promote positive behaviours.

• The distance between the school and home, the accessibility and whether the school provides transportation.

• The age ranges taught at the school as a through school will ensure that students remain with their friends throughout their learning journey making lifelong friends and connections.

• The academic results and pastoral care provided. Before making any decision, a visit to the school is recommended to experience the atmosphere of the school, meet the teachers, observe the students in their classes and at play, speak to other parents and generally gather more information. Admissions for the top international schools in Bahrain tend to have waiting lists so it is highly recommended that parents apply in advance in order to secure a space for their family.

A private school education goes beyond academics helping students develop social skills through the provision of a well-rounded education. Students have access to a wide range of specialisations including arts programs, sports, maths, sciences and extra-curricular programs that they are highly encouraged to participate in for their personal growth. The best private schools enable students to thrive in a supportive environment with highly qualified dedicated teachers nurturing each individual’s unique abilities. This individualised approach engages students, tapping into their natural curiosity and creating lifelong learners who prosper both in school and beyond. Private schools make it a priority to involve parents into the school community from frequent parent-teacher meetings to coffee mornings to participation in parent committees and fundraising activities. Families become an integral part of the school community and their children’s education.

Premium private schools are innovative, relevant and forward thinking. These best in class schools focus on continuous improvement across all aspects of the school from overall facilities to academic profile to student development and school culture.

The best private schools focus on their academic profile to ensure that they provide the best educational curriculum delivered and assessed by highly qualified teachers while integrating technology into the overall learning path.

Top international schools believe education is not just centred on producing intellectual achievement but also recognises their responsibility to develop the whole child. These schools focus on nurturing and growing students’ academic abilities while offering extensive extracurricular opportunities. These additional activities allow students to pursue their unique passions, explore new talents, and cultivate physical and social skills. These opportunities challenge the students enabling them to grow in confidence, independence and responsibility.

The greatest private schools are student centred, placing the student at the heart of every decision. These schools deliver a safe and secure environment where students are happy, productive, engaged and accepted by the community, valued as individuals and supported by teachers and peers. The best private schools foster a culture of collaboration and communication, developing a robust and connected community. They promote cultural intelligence and teach students how to operate successfully in a multi-cultural world.

The Ministry of Education is responsible for education in the country. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for every citizen to develop their mental, physical and emotional potential and skills. A rigorous assessment program delivered by the Education & Training Quality Authority evaluates all schools and secondary vocational institutions annually to ensure that the quality and effectiveness of the education offered in Bahrain meets international standards. There are two school systems in Bahrain: public schools, which are government-run, and private schools -many of which are international schools. Education in the public system is free, with students also receiving free supplies, uniforms, meals and transportation. There are now 50 private schools in Bahrain, with new private schools opening in the market - further expanding the international curriculum options available to the local Bahraini and ex-pat communities. Education in Bahrain typically includes six years of primary (also referred to as elementary) school (age 6 to 11), three years of intermediate school (12-14 years) and three years of secondary school (15-18). Schools vary between two to three semesters a year, with an academic calendar from September to early July as mandated by the Bahraini government. Private schools in Bahrain offer different international curriculums - from the British curriculum to the American or Canadian systems and the International Baccalaureate. Tuition fees vary depending on the school, and the class attended. The best private schools in Bahrain tend to have waiting lists and an assessment process for entry, so it is recommended that parents apply well in advance to secure a spot for their children.

There are 50 international schools in Bahrain available. The first step would be to conduct some online research. There are a number of educational sites that provide overviews of each school, such as Bahrain Schools Guide and Edarabia. Also consider joining parent forums such as Mums in Bahrain and ExpatWomen to gather feedback and information. The second step would be to visit each school website for further information. The next step would be to develop a shortlist and arrange an in person visit. The final step would be to make a decision on based on personal preferences and values and child’s education and extracurricular needs.
 

The most effective way to apply to a private school in Bahrain is to contact the qualified admissions team who can help walk parents through the process. This is especially useful for expat families moving to Bahrain, who will be able to receive additional guidance on regulatory requirements relating to relocating schools internationally. The top international schools in Bahrain also have online admissions forms that guide applicants through the process and detail what is required to apply.
 

An application fee is standard for all applications for private schools in Bahrain. Documents required for the application process include copies of:

• Child’s passport

• Both parents passports

• Central Population Registry cards of child and parents (if available at the time of application)

• Child immunization card

• Passport size photo of the child

• School report (if applicable)

• Previous school transfer certificate (if applicable)

1. Bahrain’s public school system dates back to 1932 and is the oldest in the Arabian Peninsula.

2. Prior to the 20th Century, there were only religion schools in Bahrain dedicated primarily to Qur’an studies.

3. Public education in Bahrain is free until secondary school for both girls and boys.

4. Education is mandatory for children aged 6 to 14.

5. The literacy rate in Bahrain is 95.7%.

6. There are 50 private schools in Bahrain.

7. Schools in Bahrain typically have two semesters from September to July.

8. Each school in Bahrain observes different holidays, expect for the Islamic holidays which are observed by the whole country.

9. Tuition fees vary dependent on the school and the year attended.

10. Education in Bahrain is expansive with a variety of international curriculums available.