The primary differences between private and international schools in Doha are the curriculum, extra-curricular activities, and cost. Choosing the right school for your child can be a daunting task, but there are a few things you can do to make your search easier. We have listed down some of the most important factors to consider when choosing an international school. Read on to find out what makes private schools appealing to so many families.
1: When comparing the cost of boarding schools and private and international schools, parents should keep several things in mind. Unlike public schools, private schools charge higher fees for extracurricular activities and support for special needs. Moreover, admissions at private schools are not determined by geographic location; therefore, children living outside the neighborhood can attend such schools. Furthermore, these schools offer boarding facilities for their students. However, private schools can be selective about their students, and they often do not accept all children.
2: In addition to the higher tuition, international schools typically employ foreign staff and teachers. The cost of recruitment and international hires can add to the school fees. International schools also tend to have more expensive facilities, especially in high-risk countries. However, international schools’ benefits far outweigh the costs. International schools often have state-of-the-art learning technology and impressive campuses. The cost of international school education can be high if the parents live in an expatriate community.
3: While the curriculum of public and private schools in the same, there are some significant differences between them. American international schools are typically located in embassies abroad, but some are not. American international schools abroad typically have the same core curriculum as the national public schools, but their students are often not native English speakers. The language of instruction in international schools is typically English, supplemented by the host country’s language of instruction.
4: While academics remain the number one priority at private and international schools, many private institutions encourage students to engage in extracurricular activities. These activities can range from sports and music to arts and clubs. These activities can help students become more engaged in their studies, and, according to a recent study, arts involvement is a good motivator. Students involved in the arts are three times more likely to receive an attendance award. Some parents say that sports are a vital part of their daughters’ lives and have helped them become more focused.
