Introduction

The 'feel' of Internationalism you get when you visit an International School can tell you a lot more than anything you might read in school documents that quote the number of nationalities present in the school and noble intentions written in mission statements.

Some International Schools are better at moving from mission into action than others. If you as a parent are not able to see any evidence of the lofty ideals written in the school's documents in action then doubts and questions may be raised.

The main aim of this chapter, as the title suggests, is to help parents to choose the best International School they can for their child. Criteria as varied as the following are considered:

• the 'feel' of internationalism;

• the importance of the right kind of assessment;

• the type and organisation of ESL programme;

• class size;

• attitude to native language use;

• exams and tests taken.

Questions to ask prospective schools are suggested and descriptions of what you might find in the many models of International Education are given. Finally, advice to help parents in the selection of a school that cares about Internationalism and the full educational development of ESL children is offered.

How Can You Feel 'Internationalism'?

As you walk into an International School for the very first time, observe how welcome you are made to feel. Has someone tried to put you and your child at ease? Are your questions welcomed or have you been told that all the answers are in the glossy booklet you have been given? Many International Schools are good at marketing themselves: but don't judge a school by its literature alone.