How to Choose the Right School for Your Child After Moving to Greece

Moving to Greece as a new homeowner comes with many exciting opportunities, including finding the right school for your child. Greece offers a range of educational options, from public schools to private and international institutions. Whether you’re settling in cities like Athens or Thessaloniki or on one of Greece’s islands, here’s a guide to help you choose the best school for your child.

Understand Greece’s Education System

• Public Schools: In Greece, education is compulsory from the age of 6 to 15, and public schools are free for all residents, including international families. Public schools typically teach in Greek, so if your child doesn’t speak the language, they might face some initial challenges. However, many public schools offer language support for non-Greek-speaking students, especially in larger cities. If you’re living in a more tourist-heavy area, there might be more resources available to help your child integrate.
• Private and International Schools: For families who prefer their child to study in a language other than Greek, private and international schools are an excellent option. These schools often offer programs in English, French, or German, and follow international curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British GCSEs, or the American system.

Consider the Language of Instruction

• Public School Language: Greek is the primary language of instruction in public schools. While there may be language support, your child will likely need to learn Greek to fully integrate into the school environment.
• Private and International Schools: Many international schools in Greece offer instruction in English or other languages. These schools may be better suited if you want your child to maintain their native language while studying in Greece. International schools also often provide Greek language courses to help children adapt to the local culture.

Location and Commute

• Proximity to Your Home: The distance from your new home to the school is a key factor, especially in larger cities like Athens, where traffic can be a challenge. Many international and private schools are located in urban areas, but some may offer transportation options for students.
• Island Schools: If you’re living on a Greek island, options for schools may be more limited, but you’ll still find quality education at public or private institutions. Some islands, such as Crete or Rhodes, offer a wider selection of international schools.

School Reputation and Accreditation

• Reputation: Research the school’s reputation by asking other expat families, checking reviews, and attending open days. International schools usually have a strong reputation for quality education, but it’s worth looking into their academic performance and extracurricular offerings.
• Accreditation: Ensure that the school is accredited by a recognized body. International schools should be accredited by organizations such as Cambridge International, IB, or WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges). Public schools are accredited by the Greek Ministry of Education.

Curriculum and Extracurricular Activities

• Curriculum: Consider the educational approach that best fits your child’s needs. International schools often provide a diverse curriculum, which can be beneficial if you plan to move or travel frequently. Greek public schools follow the national curriculum but may also offer programs like ECCE (European Certificate of Competence in English).
• Extracurriculars: Check for extracurricular activities like sports, arts, or language programs. These opportunities can help your child integrate into the local community and pursue their interests outside of academics.

Class Size and Teacher-Student Ratio

• Class Size: Smaller classes typically allow for more personalized attention. If you’re considering international schools, inquire about the average class size. Public schools in Greece often have larger class sizes, especially in urban areas, but there are usually support systems in place for non-native speakers.
• Teacher Qualifications: International schools often employ teachers with international qualifications and experience. Public school teachers are highly trained in Greece, though their experience with non-Greek-speaking students may vary.

Cultural Integration and Support

• Cultural Integration: Many international schools offer a smooth transition by helping students integrate into Greek culture through Greek language lessons and cultural immersion programs. Public schools in larger cities are more accustomed to international students and may offer similar support.
• Social Integration: Consider whether the school fosters an inclusive environment for children from different backgrounds. Expat-focused schools often emphasize international-mindedness, which can help your child feel more at home.

Cost Considerations

• Public School Fees: Public schools in Greece are free, which makes them an attractive option for families on a budget. However, there may be additional costs for extracurricular activities, school materials, or after-school programs.
• Private and International School Fees: Private and international schools often have significant tuition fees, which can vary widely. Be sure to check the school’s fee structure, and ask about additional costs like uniforms, excursions, or special programs.

Visit the Schools

• School Visits: It’s crucial to visit the schools you’re considering to get a sense of their environment, facilities, and teaching methods. This is especially important when choosing between public and international schools, as the experience can differ greatly.
• Meet with Staff: Arrange meetings with school administrators and teachers to understand their approach to international students and the services they offer.

Feedback from Other Parents

• Parent Recommendations: Joining expat groups or forums can provide helpful insights into the experiences of other international families in Greece. Speaking with other parents who have children in local or international schools will give you valuable perspective on the pros and cons of each option.

Choosing the right school for your child in Greece depends on factors like language, location, curriculum, and budget. While public schools offer a high-quality education at no cost, private and international schools may better suit families who prefer their child to study in a language other than Greek. Whatever your choice, thorough research, school visits, and talking to other parents will help ensure your child’s smooth transition into the Greek education system.