Expert Info
on 5 Nov 2013
I am about to move to Brussels with my two kids, aged 11 and 9. They are both being educated in the French system, and I want to put them into a public school in Brussels. The problem is that we should move in a couple of months and my daughter is in what seems to correspond to the Belgian 6th grade. Meaning that she should take this CEB (or whatever it is called) test and move on to the secondary school as of September. My son is in what corresponds to Belgian 4th grade, so I guess it would be easier for him. I am still trying to figure out how the system functions, but what I grasped is that it is crucial to get them into a decent elementary school in order to have them move on into a decent secondary. Does anyone have any experience with/knowledge of a similar situation??? Thanks!!! Alexa P.S. My office will be in Ixelles
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance.
Medical insurance specifically designed for expats. With Cigna, you won't have to rely on foreign public health care systems, which may not meet your needs. Cigna allows you to speak to a doctor on demand, for consultations or instant advice, wherever you are in the world. They also offer full cancer care across all levels of cover, and settle the cost of treatments directly with the provider.
Moving Internationally?
International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!
It is possible for expat students to attend a public school in Belgium through as there are immersion schemes in place to assist them.
Securing a place at secondary schools in Belgium can be difficult however as it is unclear what the process for admission is. It really will depend on the particular school you decide on for your daughter. Some schools require parents to queue up to make the application and for others you may end up having to make endless phone calls. Regardless, just ensure you are patient and persistant. Try to get in touch with other people in Belgian who have been through the process themseleves.
For a more detailed overview of schooling options in Belgium and how the public schools admission works then check out Education and Schools in Belgium.
Good luck.