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In the last few years, International Schools have gathered quite a large fan following. They have become the premier educational destination for the children of well-to-do families in different parts of the world.
As more and more developing countries start experiencing new wealth, there is a demand for the best English education that is on offer. It is not the western societies that are seeing marked growth in international schools. On the other hand, it is new emerging economic powerhouses like China, India, Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangladesh, etc. that are fuelling the demand.
It would be safe to say that in terms of a business opportunity, international schools are a profitable bet. Data shows that in 2019, international schools did revenue of nearly $50 Billion. This was a marked improvement from $34 Billion which they did in 2013!
In this article, we are going to explore why international schools are in demand in these developing economic powerhouses.
Why the Demand for International Schools is Growing?
There are multiple reasons for the growth in demand for international schools. Let us look at some of the major ones below-
1. Aspirational Qualities-
Just like your newly launched Mercedes is a status symbol, sending one’s kids to an international school is also one. In other words, if you are an individual that can afford to send your kid to an international school, you have arrived in life. These schools are famous or infamous for their high fees. This means that if you can afford one, you are rich!
2. Standard of Education-
There is no doubt that international schools provide the highest levels of education. As most of their teachers are hired from western countries, kids pick up cool American and British accents. Browse the courses offered and you will see that these schools follow the best curriculum just like European schools. Do not be surprised when you walk into a mall in Bangladesh and see a local kid with a British accent speaking fluent UK English.
3. Cheaper than Sending Kids Abroad-
For a very long time, wealthy families in these developing countries would send their kids to European countries for schooling. Not only was this expensive, but also kept young children away from their families for a long time. International schools come with boarding facilities along with the best infrastructure and resources. This is cheaper and more beneficial.
4. Training for the Future-
A lot of the children that go to international schools belong to a business or bureaucratic families. Parents know that if they want their kids to succeed them in business or as a professional, they need to start right from the schooling level. International schools prepare children for higher education through a range of mock tests and after-school coaching facilities.
5. Engaging with Extra-Curriculars-
“I loved football but could not play it because of family compulsions”. Today’s parents want their kids to get the best exposure possible. They want their children to experience everything that they could not. International schools have great facilities when it comes to extracurriculars. Playing fields, music lessons, swimming classes and so on.
The Bottom Line
The integration of technological aids in modern teaching methods is something all the best international schools do. All their classrooms are ‘Smart’ and they use the best and latest AV integrations to create a fun and engaging learning environment for the kids.
Education has changed by leaps and bounds. A student today is much more positive, confident and aware of what they have to do to succeed. Digital platforms like the internet are building awareness levels. This is why international schools are rising to the occasion.
They are helping parents, children and families get the best education and fulfilling their social aspirations. In many ways, this is prompting the move from public or private schools to international schools. If you wish to know more or have any other queries, let us know in the comments below.
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