Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Cartago

Cartago, while rich in history and culture, is not as large as some of the major cities like Bogota or Medellin and therefore has fewer international or bilingual school options for expat families. However, there are still some reputable institutions in and around the area that cater to the needs of expat children, offering international curricula and a diverse cultural environment. Among the most popular are the Colegio Ingles de los Andes and the Liceo Francés de Pereira, both of which are within a reasonable driving distance and offer high-quality education with international standards.

Colegio Ingles de los Andes

Grades: Preschool through Grade 11
Location(s): Armenia, Quindio

Colegio Ingles de los Andes is known for its commitment to bilingual education, offering a curriculum that is both challenging and comprehensive. The school follows the Colombian national curriculum alongside a strong English program, ensuring that students are well-prepared for both local and international academic challenges. With modern facilities and a range of extracurricular activities, it provides a well-rounded education for its students.

Liceo Frances de Pereira

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Pereira, Risaralda

The Liceo Frances de Pereira is part of the global network of French international schools. It offers a bilingual education in French and Spanish, with the possibility of learning English as well. The school follows the French national curriculum and is accredited by the French Ministry of Education. Students benefit from high-quality teaching methods, excellent facilities, and a wide array of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and cultural exchanges.

Colombo Britanico

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Cali, Valle del Cauca

Colombo Britanico, located in the neighboring city of Cali, is a prestigious bilingual school offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for its high school students. With a strong emphasis on the English language, the school prepares students for global citizenship and provides a diverse learning environment. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including music, theater, and robotics clubs.

The Columbus School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Medellin, Antioquia

Although a bit further away, The Columbus School in Medellin is an option for families willing to commute or relocate for a top-tier bilingual education. This school offers the IB program and is accredited by both Colombian and U.S. educational authorities. With a strong focus on developing leadership and social responsibility, The Columbus School provides excellent academic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including MUN, sports teams, and community service projects.

Montessori British School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Cali, Valle del Cauca

The Montessori British School in Cali offers a unique blend of Montessori philosophy and the British educational system. It provides a personalized learning experience that fosters independence and creativity. The school's curriculum is designed to prepare students for both the IGCSE and IB Diploma programs, with a strong emphasis on English language proficiency. Facilities include science labs, art studios, and sports fields, complementing the academic offerings with a robust extracurricular program.