Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Edmonton
Summary: If you're moving to Edmonton 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 Edmonton
Edmonton, is a vibrant city that offers a variety of educational options for expat families and digital nomads. While it may not have the extensive selection of international or bilingual schools found in some of the world's larger cities, there are still several reputable institutions to choose from. Among the most popular are the Edmonton Public Schools' various language programs and the International Baccalaureate (IB) offerings at certain schools. Here are some of the top international and bilingual schools in and around Edmonton that cater to the needs of expat children.
Edmonton Public Schools - International and Language Programs
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Various locations in Edmonton
Website: epsb.ca/programs/international/
Edmonton Public Schools offers a variety of language programs, including French Immersion, Spanish Bilingual, Arabic Bilingual, and a Mandarin Bilingual program. These programs are designed to provide students with a rigorous education while also allowing them to become proficient in a second language. The district also offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program at several schools, providing an internationally recognized curriculum that prepares students for global citizenship.
Westmount Charter School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): 11124 130 Street NW, Edmonton
Website: westmountcharter.com
Westmount Charter School is a unique educational institution in Edmonton that caters to gifted learners. While not a traditional international school, it offers a challenging curriculum that can be suitable for expat children who require advanced academic stimulation. The school focuses on personalized learning and critical thinking, and it encourages students to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities to develop a well-rounded skill set.
Suzuki Charter School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 6
Location(s): 10720 54 Street NW, Edmonton
Website: suzukischool.ca
Suzuki Charter School integrates the Suzuki philosophy of music education into the Alberta Education curriculum. This school is an excellent option for expat families who value music education and seek a nurturing environment for their children. The school emphasizes character development, parental involvement, and offers a unique approach to learning that combines musical instruction with academic excellence.
Lycee Louis Pasteur
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Calgary, AB (within a 40-minute drive from Edmonton)
Website: lycee.ca
Although located in Calgary, Lycee Louis Pasteur is within a reasonable driving distance from Edmonton and offers a full French curriculum from preschool through to high school. It is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and provides a rigorous academic program. The school is an excellent choice for expat families from French-speaking countries or those seeking a bilingual French education for their children.
Edmonton Islamic Academy
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): 14525 127 Street NW, Edmonton
Website: eia.ab.ca
Edmonton Islamic Academy offers an Islamic education combined with the Alberta curriculum. This school is a good option for expat Muslim families who wish for their children to receive an education that aligns with their religious values. The academy provides a supportive environment and encourages students to excel academically while fostering a strong sense of community and identity.
Tempo School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): 5603 148 Street NW, Edmonton
Website: temposchool.org
Tempo School is an independent school that offers a traditional academic curriculum. While not specifically an international school, it provides a high standard of education that may appeal to expat families. The school emphasizes small class sizes, individual attention, and a strong foundation in core subjects. Tempo School also offers a range of extracurricular activities to enhance the educational experience.
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.
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