Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Placencia

Placencia, is a serene coastal village known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning beaches, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. While Placencia itself is not a large urban center and thus has fewer educational facilities compared to a big city, there are still some international and bilingual school options available for expat children. Among the most popular are the Peninsula International Academy and the Maya Beach Community School, both of which cater to the needs of international families and offer quality education with a global perspective. Here are some of the schools within a 40-minute drive from Placencia that expat parents might consider for their children.

Peninsula International Academy (PIA)

Grades: Preschool through Grade 8
Location(s): Placencia Village
Website: www.peninsulainternationalacademy.org

Peninsula International Academy offers a Montessori-based early childhood program and an inquiry-based learning approach for older students. The school follows an international curriculum that prepares students for a global environment. Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, and spaces for art and physical education. Extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and clubs are also part of the school's offerings.

Maya Beach Community School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 6
Location(s): Maya Beach, Placencia Peninsula
Website: www.mayabeachschool.com

Maya Beach Community School is a small, community-oriented school that provides a bilingual education in English and Spanish. The school emphasizes hands-on learning and outdoor education, taking advantage of its proximity to the natural beauty of Belize. The curriculum is designed to be culturally relevant and includes a strong focus on environmental stewardship.

St. John's Memorial School

Grades: Infant I through Standard VI
Location(s): Placencia Village

St. John's Memorial School is a local institution that offers education from early years to the end of primary school. While not exclusively an international school, it provides a bilingual environment where expat children can learn alongside local students. The school follows the Belizean curriculum and includes cultural immersion as a significant part of its educational approach.

Independence High School

Grades: Form I through Form IV
Location(s): Independence Village, near Placencia

Independence High School serves the educational needs of older students in the area. It offers a range of academic subjects and vocational training. The school's curriculum is designed to prepare students for the Belizean Secondary School Examination (CSEC) and includes opportunities for cultural exchange and language learning for international students.

Hummingbird Elementary School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 8
Location(s): Stann Creek District, near Placencia

Hummingbird Elementary School is another option for expat families, offering education from preschool to middle school. The school provides a blend of local and international educational practices and includes a focus on the arts and environmental education. It's a place where expat children can integrate with the local community while receiving an education that acknowledges their diverse backgrounds.

Please note that while these schools are within a reasonable distance from Placencia, it's always best to contact them directly to inquire about specific programs, enrollment procedures, and any other questions you may have.