Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Half Moon Bay
Summary: If you''re moving to Half Moon Bay 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 Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay, is a picturesque location that is increasingly popular among expats and digital nomads for its serene beaches and laid-back lifestyle. While it is not a large city bustling with international schools like some global metropolises, there are still a few reputable options for expat families seeking quality education for their children. Among the most popular are the Island Academy International and the Antigua International School, both of which are within a reasonable driving distance and offer international curricula.
Island Academy International
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Buckleys
Website: www.islandacademy.com
Island Academy International is a well-established school that offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. With a diverse student body, the school provides a global education that encourages critical thinking and international-mindedness. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and sports fields, and the school offers a range of extracurricular activities to complement the academic program.
Antigua International School
Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): St. John's
Website: www.antiguainternationalschool.org
Antigua International School offers a curriculum based on the Cambridge International Examinations, catering to students from Pre-K to Grade 12. The school aims to provide a balanced education that prepares students for higher education and life beyond school. With a focus on small class sizes, AIS ensures personalized attention for each student. The school also boasts a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama.
Sunshine Academy
Grades: Pre-K through Grade 6
Location(s): Cedar Grove
Sunshine Academy is a smaller, community-oriented school that offers bilingual education in English and Spanish for younger children, from Pre-K to Grade 6. Emphasizing a nurturing environment, the school focuses on developing foundational skills in literacy and numeracy, as well as fostering a love for learning in two languages. Extracurricular activities and field trips are integral to the school's program, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
Cedar International School
Grates: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Cedar Grove
Cedar International School is another option for expat families, offering a curriculum that blends elements from various international educational systems. The school serves students from Pre-K through Grade 12 and is known for its commitment to academic excellence and character development. With a range of extracurricular activities, Cedar International School aims to develop well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of a global society.
St. Nicholas Primary School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 6
Location(s): St. John's
St. Nicholas Primary School is a private institution that provides a bilingual education in English and French. Catering to students from Kindergarten through Grade 6, the school offers a curriculum that emphasizes language acquisition and cultural awareness. With small class sizes and a dedicated teaching staff, St. Nicholas Primary School is an excellent choice for expat families seeking a personalized and immersive educational experience for their children.
Please note that while these schools are recommended for expat families living in or near Half Moon Bay, it is always best to visit the schools personally and discuss your child's specific needs with the administration to ensure the best fit for your family.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.