Education and Schools in Bahrain

Education in Bahrain is given high regard, and in service to the burgeoning expat population there are plenty of schools for families to choose from.

Bahrain championed the Gulf's first public education system in 1919, and even went so far as to allow its female population equal access. Government devotes a large annual expenditure to this sector, and the Kingdom boasts one of the highest literacy rates in the region.

Unfortunately for expats though, public schools in Bahrain are not available for foreign use. Expat children can only attend private and international schools.

Private and international schools in Bahrain

As mentioned previously, a mushrooming foreign demographic has inspired both local and foreign-run private institutions to start-up in Bahrain.

Currently, there are over 30 schools for expats to choose from, but still the demand often outweighs the supply. As a result, classes fill up quickly and therefore registration should be completed as soon as possible - even from abroad, prior to relocation.

Waiting lists, especially for the popular English speaking schools, are commonplace and if expats want to ensure their child has a space reserved it's vital to get the ball rolling sooner than later. Admission requirements vary from school to school, but usually the following is required:

• Passport copy
• Prior school reports
• Completed application form with application fee

Most schools are located in Riffa, and nearly all of them are unisex.

Tuition fees for private schools in Bahrain can be absolutely tremendous - up to 7000 BD annually. Be sure to factor this expense into your expat contract if possible. If an employer is reluctant to grant an education allowance, take care that the negotiated salary can adequately cover the costs of schooling.

Curriculum and exams

The curriculum taught in schools in Bahrain varies from institution to institution. Each has it's own unique study plan, course schedule and required textbooks. Final exams and certificates granted also differ from school to school.

One common thread, however; is the fact that a mixture of nationalities often attend each school and that Arabic and Islamic studies are a required part of all curricula.

For expat families who find this unacceptable, the only other option is to home-school your child.

Generally speaking, standards in the private schools are quite high, smaller class sizes are the norm and most have modern facilities and healthy extra-curricular programs.

Recommended schools in Bahrain:

• St. Christopher's School
• Bahrain School
• British School
• Naseem School
• Bayan School
• Sh. Hessa School
• Kanoo School
• Ibn Khuldoon School
• Sacred Heart School