Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Addis Ababa
Summary: If you're moving to Addis Ababa 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 Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, the bustling capital city of Ethiopia, is a hub for expatriates and digital nomads from around the world. Catering to the diverse community, the city offers a variety of international and bilingual schools, providing quality education for expat children. Among the most popular ones are the International Community School of Addis Ababa and Sandford International School, both known for their comprehensive curricula and multicultural environments. While there are several options to choose from, here is a list of some of the notable international and bilingual schools within a short drive from Addis Ababa.
International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS)
Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Old Airport Area, Addis Ababa
Website: www.icsaddis.org
The International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS) is an independent, co-educational day school, which offers an educational program from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 for students of all nationalities. The school follows an American-style curriculum that is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) in the upper grades. ICS boasts state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a diverse student body representing over 60 nationalities.
Sandford International School
Grades: Age 3 through Grade 13
Location(s): Kirkos Subcity, Addis Ababa
Website: www.sandfordschool.org
Sandford International School, founded in 1947, is one of the oldest international schools in Africa. It offers the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate Diploma for higher grades. The school is known for its historic campus, a blend of traditional and modern educational facilities, and a vibrant community that encourages students' personal growth alongside academic achievement.
Bingham Academy
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa
Website: www.binghamacademy.net
Bingham Academy provides a Christian education in English and follows an international curriculum that prepares students for universities worldwide. The school offers a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and has a diverse student body, with a community-oriented approach to education. Bingham Academy is known for its commitment to academic excellence and character development.
One Planet International School
Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa
Website: www.oneplanetschool.com
One Planet International School offers a holistic education with a curriculum that includes the Cambridge International Examinations and the Ethiopian National Curriculum. The school emphasizes environmental awareness, critical thinking, and global citizenship. One Planet boasts modern facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields, and offers a wide array of extracurricular activities.
German Embassy School Addis Ababa
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa
Website: www.ds-addis.de
The German Embassy School Addis Ababa provides a German-based education and offers the German International Abitur as well as the Ethiopian School Leaving Certificate. The school serves the German-speaking community and others seeking a German education in Addis Ababa. With a focus on intercultural learning and multilingualism, the school prepares students for higher education in Germany and worldwide.
British International School Ethiopia
Grades: Early Years through Secondary
Location(s): Addis Ababa
Website: www.bisethiopia.net
The British International School Ethiopia follows the English National Curriculum and offers a British-style education in Addis Ababa. The school provides a pathway to IGCSEs and A-Levels, with a focus on fostering independent and critical thinking. The school's facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, and sports amenities, and it offers a range of extracurricular activities to enhance the educational experience.
Lycée Guebre-Mariam
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Addis Ababa
Lycée Guebre-Mariam is a French international school that offers a curriculum based on the French education system. It serves students from kindergarten to the baccalaureate level and is part of the network of French schools abroad. The school is known for its rigorous academic standards, multicultural environment, and promotion of the French language and culture.
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.