Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Cartagena

Cartagena, known for its historical significance and beautiful Caribbean coastline, is also a hub for expats and digital nomads who bring along their families. While Cartagena may not have the vast number of international or bilingual schools found in some of the world's largest cities, it does offer a selection of reputable institutions. Among the most popular are the Colegio Jorge Washington (COJOWA), which is known for its American-style curriculum, and the British International School of Cartagena, which offers the English National Curriculum. These schools provide expat children with a quality education and a smooth transition into their new environment.

Colegio Jorge Washington (COJOWA)

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Cartagena
Website: www.cojowa.edu.co

Colegio Jorge Washington, commonly referred to as COJOWA, is an American international school that offers an English-based education with a focus on bilingualism. The school follows an American curriculum and also prepares students for the Colombian Bachillerato diploma. COJOWA boasts modern facilities, including science labs, sports fields, and art studios. Extracurricular activities range from MUN to various sports teams, catering to a diverse set of interests. The school is accredited by AdvancED and serves the international and local community in Cartagena.

British International School of Cartagena

Grades: Nursery through Year 13
Location(s): Cartagena
Website: www.bisct.edu.co

The British International School of Cartagena offers the English National Curriculum alongside the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for older students. With a strong emphasis on global citizenship and academic excellence, the school provides a well-rounded education. Facilities include science and IT labs, a library, and sports areas. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and sports, to enhance the educational experience of its students.

Aspaen Gimnasio Cartagena de Indias

Grades: Preschool through Grade 11
Location(s): Cartagena
Website: cartagenadeindias.aspaen.edu.co

Aspaen Gimnasio Cartagena de Indias is part of the Aspaen group of schools in Colombia, known for its bilingual education and emphasis on personal development. The school follows the Colombian curriculum in conjunction with English language instruction. It offers modern facilities, including technology-integrated classrooms and sports complexes. The school's extracurricular program includes cultural and artistic activities, as well as environmental projects.

Montessori Cartagena International School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 6
Location(s): Cartagena
Website: www.montessoricartagena.com

Montessori Cartagena International School adheres to the Montessori philosophy, offering a bilingual education that fosters independence and a love for learning. The school provides a nurturing environment with a focus on hands-on learning experiences. Facilities include specially designed Montessori classrooms and outdoor play areas. The school's curriculum is designed to meet the needs of both international and local students, providing them with a solid foundation in both English and Spanish.

Liceo Frances de Cartagena

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Cartagena
Website: www.lfcartagena.com

Liceo Frances de Cartagena offers a French curriculum with a strong bilingual component in Spanish. The school is part of the AEFE network of French schools abroad and provides a rigorous academic program that leads to the French Baccalaureate. The school's facilities include science labs, a multimedia library, and sports fields. Extracurricular activities such as music, theater, and sports are an integral part of the school community, contributing to the holistic development of students.