Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Barranquilla
Summary: If you're moving to Barranquilla with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Barranquilla
Barranquilla, is a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity and dynamic atmosphere. While not as large as cities like Bogota or Medellin, Barranquilla offers a selection of international and bilingual schools catering to the expat community. Among the most popular are the Karl C. Parrish School and the Marymount School, both of which provide high-quality education with an international perspective. Here is a list of recommended international or bilingual schools in and around Barranquilla for expat families to consider.
Karl C. Parrish School
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Barranquilla
Website: www.kcparrish.edu.co
The Karl C. Parrish School is a well-established institution in Barranquilla that offers an American-style education with English as the primary language of instruction. The school is accredited by AdvancED and offers the Advanced Placement (AP) program for high school students. With a range of facilities including science labs, sports fields, and art studios, the school provides a comprehensive education that extends beyond the classroom. Extracurricular activities such as Model United Nations and various sports teams are also available.
Marymount School Barranquilla
Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Barranquilla
Website: www.marymountbq.edu.co
Marymount School in Barranquilla is a private Catholic school that offers bilingual education in English and Spanish. The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for its Diploma Programme (DP) and is known for its strong academic record. Marymount School boasts modern facilities, including technology-integrated classrooms, a library, and sports complexes. It also emphasizes the importance of community service and global citizenship.
Altamira International School
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Barranquilla
Website: www.altamira.edu.co
Altamira International School provides a bilingual education with a focus on developing well-rounded individuals. The school offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and is a candidate school for the Middle Years Programme (MYP). With a curriculum that encourages inquiry-based learning, Altamira also provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and cultural clubs.
British International School
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Barranquilla
Website: www.bis.edu.co
The British International School offers an education based on the English National Curriculum, with English as the language of instruction. The school prepares students for the IGCSE exams and offers A-Level qualifications for older students. With a diverse student body, BIS provides an international environment where students can thrive academically and socially. The school's facilities include science labs, computer rooms, and sports fields.
Lyndon B. Johnson School
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Barranquilla
Lyndon B. Johnson School is a bilingual institution that offers a Colombian and American curriculum. The school is known for its strong emphasis on bilingual education and cultural exchange. Students have access to a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama, which complement the academic curriculum and contribute to a well-rounded education.
Colombo Americano
Grades: Preschool through Grade 11
Location(s): Barranquilla
Website: www.colomboamericano.edu.co
Colombo Americano is a bilingual school that offers an American-style education with a strong focus on English language acquisition. The school provides a Colombian curriculum with an international approach, preparing students for both local and international higher education opportunities. Colombo Americano also offers cultural exchange programs and a variety of extracurricular activities.
The New Cambridge School
Grades: Preschool through Grade 11
Location(s): Barranquilla
Website: www.tncbarranquilla.edu.co
The New Cambridge School in Barranquilla is part of a network of schools that offer the Cambridge International Curriculum. The school provides a bilingual education with a global perspective, aiming to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. With modern facilities and a commitment to academic excellence, The New Cambridge School is an attractive option for expat families.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Retire in Barranquilla Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Barranquilla
- Pros & Cons of Living in Barranquilla
- Tips for Expats Driving in Barranquilla
- Discover the Best of Barranquilla
- Health Care in Barranquilla
- Cost of Living in Barranquilla
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Colombia
- Best Places to Live in Colombia
- Real Estate in Colombia
- Buying a Home in Colombia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Colombia 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Colombia