After moving from South Africa to Mauritius with my family, researching the right Mauritius schools for our toddler became a top priority.
Like any parent, I want my little one to feel comfortable. I also want them to receive a high-quality education. This education should set a solid foundation for the future.
With so many Mauritius schools to choose from, the process was a bit daunting at first, but I’ve learned a lot along the way.
Here’s what I found out about Mauritius education for expats including the best private schools in Mauritius and the international schools in Mauritius.
I have compiled a list of the best English medium schools in Mauritius for fellow expat families.
Understanding the Mauritius Education System for Expats
Coming from South Africa, I was eager to understand how the Mauritius education system works, particularly for expats.
The island is home to several international Mauritius schools. These schools follow different curricula, such as the British, French, and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. This variety makes it easier for families like mine to find a good fit.
I’ve heard great things about Le Bocage Mauritius (LBIS), which offers the IB program and is known as one of the best private schools in Mauritius.
This could be a good option if you want a smooth transition for your child, especially if they are coming from a school system outside of Mauritius.
Exploring Top International Schools in Mauritius
While searching for the right Mauritius schools, I discovered some of the most popular options for expat families.
Le Bocage International School stands out with its IB curriculum and supportive environment.
Another strong contender is Northfields International High School.
It has a great reputation and offers a well-rounded education, focusing on both academics and extracurricular activities.
I found Northfield Mauritius to be a wonderful option, especially if you’re living in the northern part of the island and want a nurturing learning environment for your child.
Insider Tip: If possible, choose a school near your home as there is a lot of traffic getting into and out of most schools around the island.
Mauritius Private Schools: Finding the Right Fit for My Toddler
There are also many private schools in Mauritius that cater to younger children, including kindergarten Mauritius programs.
We considered schools like Dukesbridge Mauritius and Doha Academy Mauritius for our toddler.
Both schools emphasize early childhood development. They create a warm and engaging environment. This would make it easier for our little one to adjust to life on the island.
Mauritius private schools tend to have smaller class sizes. This was an appealing factor for us. Smaller classes allow for more individual attention.
What are the Best Schools in Mauritius (English)?
After exploring numerous schools and considering various factors, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best schools in Mauritius (in no particular order) tailored for expats.
Here are my insights and recommendations, along with estimated costs in Mauritian rupees:
1. Northfields International High School
Located in Mapou, Northfields International High School offers a comprehensive British curriculum from Key Stages 3 to 5.
With state-of-the-art facilities, including science laboratories, IT suites, and sports amenities, students receive a holistic education. For example, they offer a wide range of extracurricular activities such as sports teams, drama productions, and community service projects.
Annual fees range from MUR 180,000 to MUR 220,000.
2. International Preparatory School
Located in the North of the Island, the International Preparatory School offers an enriched curriculum based on the British National Curriculum.
The school provides a nurturing environment for young learners, fostering their academic and personal development. For instance, they offer a variety of educational field trips and hands-on learning experiences.
Annual fees range from MUR 140,000 to MUR 180,000, depending on the grade level.
3. Le Bocage International School
Situated in Moka, Le Bocage International School follows the Cambridge International Curriculum, providing students with a rigorous academic program.
The school boasts modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, a library, and sports fields. For instance, they emphasize personalized learning through small class sizes and dedicated teachers.
Tuition fees vary based on grade level, ranging from MUR 170,000 to MUR 250,000 per year.
4. École du Centre
Situated in Helvitia, École du Centre offers a French-English bilingual program for students from kindergarten to secondary level.
The school promotes cultural diversity and academic excellence, with a focus on language acquisition and international-mindedness. For example, they organize cultural events and language immersion activities.
Tuition fees vary based on grade level, ranging from MUR 140,000 to MUR 190,000 per year.
5. Telfair Primary School
Telfair Primary School, located in Tamarin, Mauritius, offers a nurturing and dynamic learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds.
Moreover, Telfair Primary School prioritizes holistic development, offering a well-rounded curriculum that encompasses not only academic subjects but also extracurricular activities and character-building initiatives.
Telfair International Primary School incorporates the British National Curriculum.
The annual tuition fees for primary school education at Telfair can range from approximately MUR 100,000 to MUR 200,000 per year per student.
6. Westcoast International Secondary School
Found in Tamarin, Westcoast International Secondary School offers the Cambridge International Curriculum for secondary students.
The school focuses on holistic education, combining academic excellence with extracurricular activities. For example, they encourage student participation in clubs, sports teams, and community service projects.
Tuition fees range from MUR 160,000 to MUR 200,000 per year.
7. Ecole du Nord
Found near Grand Baie, Ecole du Nord offers a bilingual French-English education for students from kindergarten to secondary level.
The school promotes academic excellence and cultural awareness, preparing students for success in a globalized world. For example, they offer language immersion programs and international exchange opportunities.
Tuition fees vary based on grade level, ranging from MUR 140,000 to MUR 190,000 per year.
8. Clavis International Primary School
Situated in Moka, Clavis International Primary School offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for primary students.
The school focuses on holistic education, nurturing students’ intellectual, social, and emotional development. For instance, they incorporate inquiry-based learning and project-based assessments into the curriculum.
Annual fees range from MUR 120,000 to MUR 170,000, depending on the grade level.
9. Yahweh International School
Yahweh International School is a primary and pre-primary school, located in Ebene, which is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development.
Yahweh International School focuses on nurturing each student’s potential. It offers a dynamic learning environment. This environment inspires intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.
Yahweh International School follows the Cambridge International Curriculum, which is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and global recognition.
Annual fees vary by grade level, ranging from MUR 100,000 to MUR 180,000 per year.
Curriculum Options Available for Expatriate Children in Mauritius?
There are many options available. These include internationally recognized systems like the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). Additionally, there are American, British, and French curriculum schools.
Each curriculum offers its unique approach to learning, with varying emphases on subjects, teaching methodologies, and assessment styles.
1. International Baccalaureate (IB)
The IB curriculum is renowned worldwide for its holistic approach to education, focusing on developing critical thinking, communication, and intercultural understanding.
It offers programs for different age groups, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP).
IB schools in Mauritius follow a rigorous curriculum that encourages inquiry-based learning, interdisciplinary connections, and community service. Students are exposed to a broad range of subjects and are encouraged to explore global issues from multiple perspectives.
2. Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)
CIE offers a comprehensive suite of qualifications, including the Cambridge Primary, Cambridge Secondary 1, Cambridge IGCSE, and Cambridge International AS & A Levels. CIE schools in Mauritius are known for their rigorous assessment standards. They have a flexible curriculum. These schools provide a pathway for students to pursue higher education both locally and internationally.
The curriculum emphasizes academic rigor, practical skills development, and global perspectives, preparing students for success in the increasingly interconnected world.
3. American Curriculum
Schools following the American curriculum in Mauritius typically adhere to the standards set by US educational institutions. This curriculum emphasizes a broad-based education with a focus on core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education.
It often includes a variety of extracurricular activities, project-based learning, and opportunities for student leadership development. American curriculum schools aim to provide students with a well-rounded education that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and independent learning.
4. British Curriculum
The British curriculum, often referred to as the National Curriculum of England, is widely adopted by international schools in Mauritius. It is structured into key stages, including the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), Key Stage 1 (KS1), Key Stage 2 (KS2), Key Stage 3 (KS3), and General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) or International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE).
The curriculum emphasizes subject-specific knowledge, skills development, and assessment through standardized examinations. British curriculum schools in Mauritius focus on providing a high-quality education that prepares students for further studies or employment opportunities globally.
5. French Curriculum
The French curriculum, administered by the French Ministry of National Education, is followed by French international schools in Mauritius. It is structured into cycles, including the cycle primaire (primary cycle) and cycle secondaire (secondary cycle), culminating in the French Baccalaureate examination.
The curriculum places a strong emphasis on language acquisition, literature, mathematics, sciences, and humanities. French curriculum schools aim to provide students with a solid academic foundation while promoting French language proficiency and cultural appreciation.
Extracurricular Activities Are Offered by Mauritius Schools
As expatriate parents navigating the schooling landscape in Mauritius, we’ve discovered a wealth of extracurricular activities offered by Mauritius schools to complement academic learning and foster holistic development in our children.
These activities span a wide range of interests and talents, catering to diverse preferences and age groups.
From sports such as soccer, basketball, swimming, and athletics to creative pursuits like art, music, drama, and dance, there’s something for every child to explore and excel in.
Additionally, schools often organize clubs and societies focusing on areas such as robotics, coding, photography, environmental conservation, and community service, providing opportunities for students to pursue their passions and develop leadership skills.
Cost Considerations When Choosing a School in Mauritius
When considering the cost of schooling in Mauritius, my family and I have encountered various expenses that influence our decision-making process.
For instance, tuition fees can range from around MUR 20,000 to MUR 50,000 per term for international schools, depending on the grade level and reputation of the institution.
Additionally, registration fees typically amount to MUR 5,000 to MUR 15,000 annually, while uniform costs can range from MUR 3,000 to MUR 10,000 per set, depending on the school’s dress code requirements.
Transportation fees vary depending on the distance between our home and the school, with monthly bus passes ranging from MUR 1,000 to MUR 3,000.
Furthermore, extracurricular activity fees may vary, with some schools charging MUR 500 to MUR 2,000 per activity per term.
Ancillary expenses such as cafeteria meals can amount to approximately MUR 1,000 to MUR 3,000 per month, while school supplies and textbooks may cost around MUR 2,000 to MUR 5,000 per academic year.
Considering these specific examples helps us gauge the overall affordability of each schooling option and make an informed decision that aligns with our budgetary constraints.
How Can Expatriates Navigate the School Admission Process?
Navigating the school admission process in Mauritius as an expatriate can initially seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be manageable.
Firstly, it’s essential to research and shortlist Mauritius schools that align with your family’s values, educational philosophy, and budget.
Once you have identified potential Mauritius schools, reach out to them directly to inquire about admission procedures, deadlines, and required documentation.
Some schools may require academic records, recommendation letters, or entrance exams, so it’s crucial to gather all necessary paperwork in advance.
Additionally, scheduling school visits or virtual tours can provide valuable insights into the campus environment and facilities.
Insider Tip: There is a long waiting list to enroll your child into international schools in Mauritius. Try and enroll them as far in advance as you can!
Tips and Recommendations to Help Expats Make Their Final School Decision
When making the final decision about which Mauritius school to choose for your children, there are several tips and recommendations that can help you make an informed choice.
Firstly, consider the school’s academic reputation and performance, looking at factors such as exam results, curriculum quality, and accreditation.
For instance, École du Nord has a strong reputation for its International Baccalaureate program, while Le Bocage International School is known for its Cambridge curriculum and excellent academic outcomes.
Additionally, take into account the school’s facilities and resources, including classrooms, libraries, sports facilities, and extracurricular offerings, to ensure a well-rounded educational experience.
For example, Northfields International High School boasts state-of-the-art science labs and a fully equipped performing arts center.
It’s also essential to consider the school’s location and accessibility, as well as factors like class sizes, teacher qualifications, and student-teacher ratios.
For instance, International Preparatory School is centrally located in Moka, offering convenient access to expat communities across the island.
Preparing My Child for School in Mauritius
Moving to Mauritius has been an adventure for our family, and finding the right school for our little one was a big part of settling in.
I visited several schools, from LBIS to Dukesbridge, and it made all the difference in helping our child adapt to a new country and culture.
Whether you’re looking for a school that follows the British curriculum, the IB program, or offers a bilingual French-English environment, Mauritius international schools for expat families have plenty of options to choose from.
The warmth and professionalism of teachers in Mauritius made us feel reassured that our child would be in good hands.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Mauritius School for Our Child’s Education
Choosing a school in a new country can feel overwhelming, but Mauritius schools offer a variety of excellent options for expat families.
From Le Bocage and Northfield to newer options like Doha Academy, there’s something for every family’s needs.
I found that taking the time to explore different Mauritius schools helped us find the right fit, and it made our transition to island life much smoother. If you’re an expat like us,
I hope this guide helps you make the best choice for your child’s education and enjoy the wonderful experience of living in Mauritius.
[…] Moka provides access to quality education options. From renowned international schools like École du Centre to educational facilities within Moka Smart City, you can ensure your children receive a top-notch […]