Copenhagen is a lively, incredible city that warmly welcomes expats from around the world, including many families from the United States. These families often prioritize finding excellent educational institutions for their children, seeking schools that offer a high-quality education in a supportive environment. Read on and learn more about best schools for expat children in Copenhagen.
Throughout this article, we will focus on the best schools for expat children in Copenhagen, which will help American families navigate their options. Whether you’re looking for an international curriculum or a school with a strong sense of community, this guide provides valuable insights into the educational landscape in Copenhagen, making your transition smoother and your child’s learning experience more enriching.
Overview of the Education System in Copenhagen
The Danish education system is highly regarded for its innovative teaching methods and commitment to student well-being. It includes both public and private schools, with public schools being tuition-free. However, one challenge for American expat families is that Danish is the primary language of instruction in public schools. This language barrier can make it difficult for children who are not fluent in Danish. International schools offer a solution by providing instruction in English and following internationally recognized curricula. These schools are designed to accommodate the needs of expat children, offering a familiar educational environment while helping them integrate into their new surroundings.
Top Schools for Expat Children in Copenhagen
Copenhagen International School (CIS)
Copenhagen International School is one of the most prestigious schools for expat children in Copenhagen and is highly regarded by the expat community. Established in 1963, CIS offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program from kindergarten through high school. It has state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports complexes, providing a comprehensive educational experience. Extracurricular activities are diverse, ranging from sports to arts and technology clubs, catering to various interests. The admission process is competitive and includes assessments to evaluate the child’s readiness for the IB program. While the fees are relatively high, they reflect the exceptional quality of education and resources provided.
Rygaards International School
Rygaards International School is a well-established institution that combines Danish and international education, making it an excellent choice for expat families. Founded in 1909, the school offers the British curriculum alongside the Danish system, providing flexibility for families with a longer or uncertain stay in Denmark. Rygaards strongly emphasizes holistic development, offering various extracurricular activities such as music, drama, and sports. The admission process includes an interview and assessment to evaluate the child’s academic and social readiness.
Østerbro International School
Located in the heart of Copenhagen, Østerbro International School offers the Cambridge International Curriculum, making it an ideal choice for parents seeking a structured, globally recognized education system. It provides a nurturing environment with small class sizes and a low student-teacher ratio, allowing personalized attention for each student. Extracurricular activities are plentiful, including a wide range of clubs and sports teams, encouraging students to explore their interests beyond academics. The admission process is straightforward, involving an application and an interview to assess the child’s suitability.
European School Copenhagen
The European School Copenhagen is part of a network of European schools offering multilingual and multicultural education. It is very appealing to many American expat families. The school follows the European Baccalaureate program. That makes it ideal for families with a European background or those planning future moves within Europe. It promotes cultural diversity and multilingualism, with instruction in Danish, English, and several other languages. Extracurricular activities are extensive, covering arts, sports, and academic clubs, providing a well-rounded educational experience. The admission process includes language assessments and interviews to determine the child’s readiness. Fees are moderate, reflecting the high quality of education offered.
Tips for Enrolling and Settling In
Relocating from the US to Copenhagen involves numerous steps, and enrolling your children in school is a top priority for expat families. Finding the best schools for expat children in Copenhagen and organizing a timely enrollment can be daunting amidst the complexities of an international move. That is where the expertise of an overseas moving team proves invaluable. Professional international movers handle all logistics, from packing and shipping to customs clearance, allowing you to focus on settling your family. With reliable movers managing the move, you can dedicate more time to visiting schools, meeting with administrators, and preparing your children for their new educational environment. A smooth logistical transition ensures you can prioritize helping your child adapt to their new school and surroundings, making the overall relocation experience much more manageable.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a School
When selecting a school for expat children in Copenhagen, American families should consider several important factors. The curriculum and teaching philosophy are key, as international schools offer various programs such as IB, British, or American curricula. Location and commute are also significant; proximity to your residence can greatly affect your daily routine. Class size and student-teacher ratio are important for personalized attention and academic success. Additionally, it’s worth considering the school’s facilities and resources, such as libraries, sports facilities, and extracurricular programs. The level of community and parent involvement can enhance your child’s overall educational experience, providing a supportive environment for both students and parents.
Additional Resources and Support for Expat Families
Copenhagen offers a variety of resources to support expat families. Expat communities and networking groups provide platforms for sharing experiences, advice, and support. Educational consultants can guide the school selection, helping families make informed decisions. Relocation services are available to assist with everything from housing to schooling, making the transition easier. Danish language courses and integration programs are also available to help families adjust to their new environment. These resources include:
- Expat communities and networking groups
- Educational consultants
- Relocation services
- Danish language courses and integration programs
These resources help expat families thrive in Copenhagen, making the city a welcoming and enriching place to live and learn.
Best Schools for Expat Children in Copenhagen – Conclusion
This blog post has highlighted the best schools for expat children in Copenhagen, detailing their unique features and benefits. You can find a school that best fits your child’s needs by considering factors like curriculum, location, and community involvement. Visiting schools and speaking with other expat parents can provide deeper insights and help you make an informed decision. With the right choice, your child can thrive academically and socially in this beautiful city, making moving to Denmark a rewarding experience.
Best Schools for Expat Children in Copenhagen, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Emily Johnsen. Emily is an experienced travel writer and former expat who has lived in Copenhagen. With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by American families moving abroad, Emily specializes in providing practical advice on relocation and integration.
Feature image on top © Marcus Winkler/Pexels