What are the factors you need to consider before attending an international school in Manila?
- Academics and curriculum
- School environment and community
- Practicality and logistics
- Finances
Overview
- Choosing an international school in Manila involves more than prestige.
- Parents must assess curriculum options like AP, IB, and Cambridge, teaching quality, accreditation, environment, logistics, and overall fit.
- Schools like Reedley International School combine global standards with strong values, ensuring students grow academically, emotionally, and socially for lifelong success.
Every parent dreams of giving their child the best education possible. For some, this means finding a school that not only teaches academics but also provides a learning space where one builds confidence, compassion, and independence.
In that search, international schools often stand out for their diverse communities and global approach. Still, choosing one shouldn’t be made in haste.
Understanding the factors to consider before attending an international school in Manila ensures your child learns in an environment that supports both their growth and individuality.
What Makes An International School Different From Local Schools?
Unlike local schools that follow the Philippine Department of Education’s curriculum, international schools adopt global systems such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and Cambridge Assessment International Education.
At Reedley International School (RIS), the curriculum integrates Singaporean, American, and Filipino frameworks while offering AP courses to deliver a globally competitive education. This balanced approach combines academic rigor, character development, and essential life skills—helping students meet international standards while remaining grounded in strong values.
Classes are conducted in English and emphasize critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity through interactive projects and discussions—building confidence and cultural awareness for future academic and career success.
Academics
The core mission of any school is education, and the academic structure of an international school is its most defining feature.
Curriculum
The curriculum is the foundation of your child’s education. It defines what they learn, how they think, and the opportunities that follow after graduation. It’s the first and most crucial factor to consider when choosing an international school.
- Advanced Placement (AP) – Provides college-level coursework and exams while still in high school. Ideal for students aiming to earn university credits early or prepare for admission to U.S. and Canadian colleges.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) – Emphasizes inquiry-based learning and holistic development. Best suited for students who enjoy interdisciplinary study and want to cultivate critical thinking and global awareness.
- Cambridge International (IGCSE/A-Levels) – Focuses on subject mastery and academic specialization. A strong choice for students with clear career paths, particularly those planning to study medicine, engineering, or related fields in the UK or Europe.
Quality Of Teaching
When evaluating teaching quality, consider educators with specialized international certifications, such as IB, to ensure expertise in both pedagogy and subject matter. An ideal mix of internationally recruited and qualified local teachers provides a global perspective and cultural insight. Equally important is a low student-to-teacher ratio that encourages personalized attention and meaningful, discussion-based learning.
Accreditation
Accreditation acts as an external seal of quality. Beyond local standards, international accreditations ensure global recognition of diplomas and verify that the school meets high benchmarks for curriculum, governance, and student well-being.
- WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges): Accreditation by WASC is often essential for students applying to US universities.
- CIS (Council of International Schools): A respected global organization that provides a rigorous, in-depth evaluation focused on how well the school fulfills its mission and prepares students for global citizenship.
- NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges): Like WASC, NEASC accreditation signals academic rigor and quality that is well-regarded by North American universities.
- EARCOS (East Asia Regional Council of Schools): a network of over 200 English-instruction schools in East Asia, promoting professional development, intercultural understanding, and collaboration through conferences and resources for its member schools and educational institutions.
- CEP (Character Education Partnership): a nonpartisan coalition promoting moral character and civic virtue in youth. It provides research-based standards and principles to integrate ethical values into school curricula and culture, supporting students’ academic, social, and ethical development.
School Environment And Community
A school is a second home, and the environment heavily influences a child’s emotional and social development.
Extracurricular Activities
Exposure to classmates hailing from diverse cultures through extracurricular activities and daily interactions fosters empathy, inclusion, and a broader worldview, which are key qualities in today’s global landscape.
Student Body and Community
Complementing these programs is the diversity of the student body—interacting with peers from different cultures and backgrounds fosters empathy, inclusion, and a broader worldview.
This diversity, paired with intentional character development programs that emphasize emotional intelligence, resilience, and social responsibility, ensures that students grow into well-rounded, confident individuals.
Practicality And Logistics
Even the best education can be overshadowed by daily stress if the logistics are poor.
Admission Requirements
Before choosing a school, review the admission requirements carefully. This includes evaluating whether your child meets the academic and developmental criteria for their grade level, understanding the enrollment process, and preparing any necessary documents or assessments. Knowing these details early helps you plan and ensures your child can smoothly transition into the new environment.
Location And Commute
Consider the notorious Manila traffic when choosing a school. Assess its location relative to your home and check whether it offers safe, reliable transportation options. Minimizing travel time is essential for protecting a student’s well-being and ensuring they have enough time to rest and study, as long commutes can greatly affect their energy levels.
Finances
A top-tier international education is a long-term investment that requires thoughtful financial planning. While tuition is often the first consideration, families should also account for related expenses such as uniforms, meals, transportation, learning materials, and extracurricular or after-school programs.
Considering these costs along with the general cost of living provides a clearer picture of the total financial commitment and ensures the chosen school fits comfortably within your family’s budget.
Is An International School The Right Choice For Your Child?
Ultimately, choosing an international school in Manila is about alignment. The perfect school matches your child’s needs with your family’s logistical and financial realities.
Before deciding, reflect on these three key considerations:
- Emotional Readiness & Adaptability: International schools often have high student turnover. Assess if your child can adjust to diverse cultures and frequent changes.
- Future Educational Path: Balance global exposure with local identity. Blended programs, like Reedley’s, prepare students for both international and local opportunities.
- Trial Run: Let your child join summer programs or shadow days to experience the school’s environment and teaching style before enrolling.
Key Takeaway
Knowing the key factors to consider before attending an international school in Manila helps you make a decision that truly supports your child’s future. Beyond prestige, it’s about finding an environment that nurtures their academic growth, character, and confidence.
Reedley International School’s blended curriculum nurtures well-rounded learners who are prepared for global success. Contact us today or schedule a visit to see how Reedley can support your child’s growth and potential.