Jun 26, 2025

What Makes a Great International School? 5 Things Every Parent Should Look For

The summer break is always A season of transition, of relocating, progressing and of starting anew. 

For some families, this can be a time of big decisions, with moving to a new country or city, or even reflecting upon the current school. Relocating as well as reflecting upon the current choice of school comes with the important task of choosing the right school—one that not only educates but also nurtures, supports, and prepares children for a future unlimited in possibilities. In this context, international schools are often seen as the ideal choice. But what truly makes a great international school?

An international school can represent one or several aspects which indicate the label of ‘international’. While the literal definition might point to institutions offering globally-recognised curricula, such as the Cambridge International Education (CIE) and International Baccalaureate (IB), there’s far more to an international school than the framework of academics. It’s about the experience, the environment, attitudes, the level of support for both national and international careers and university guidance, as well as the cultural exposure and values.

If you’re searching for a truly enriching learning experience, let’s explore what sets an international school apart—and take Legacy School Bangalore as a meaningful example to draw inspiration from.

 

1. Multicultural Education

Diversity lies at the heart of any authentic international school. The very essence of these institutions is rooted in creating a learning environment where students from a range of nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds come together.

For example, Legacy School students learn alongside peers who speak different languages, celebrate different festivals, and bring unique perspectives to classroom discussions, as well as represent diverse values. This exposure fosters empathy, cross-cultural understanding, greater tolerance, interpersonal intelligence, and open-mindedness, informing and emphasising the ‘soft’ skills which increasingly distinguish students in today’s interconnected world.

A multicultural setting not only enriches daily learning experiences but also prepares students to be global citizens – to be more aware, respectful, and adaptive in diverse environments.

2. Multilingual Learning

Language is more than a medium of communication; it’s a bridge to understanding the world. International schools often emphasise the importance of learning additional languages, giving students the opportunity to become truly multilingual.

At Legacy School, language learning is integrated meaningfully into the curriculum. Whether it’s through dedicated language classes or cross-cultural exchanges, students are encouraged to explore new languages. This helps boost cognitive development, improves communication skills, and offers students a competitive edge, both academically and professionally.

Further, multilingual education offers a richness which expands the minds capacity the analyse, whilst offering a richer frame for interpreting the world.

3. High-Quality Education

Academic excellence remains a cornerstone of international education. The curricula offered by top-tier international schools are designed to foster inquiry, independence, critical thinking, and real-world application. Along with the soft-skills, it is these higher-order thinking qualities which set apart students as being far more than their Grades.

Legacy School follows globally benchmarked curricula that are continuously updated to reflect current global trends. The focus is not just on acquiring knowledge but on developing the ability in our learners to apply knowledge, through project-based learning, interdisciplinary thinking, and collaborative assignments. International school learners are encouraged to challenge, explore, ask questions, think deeply, and become active participants in their learning journey.

4. Personal Development

The best international schools prioritise the development of the whole child. Education is not confined to textbooks, but by the utility of knowledge in the way it is applied, exchanged, and explored on a human level. It encompasses character building, emotional intelligence, and leadership.

Legacy School places a strong emphasis on personal growth – fostering independence, self-reflection, and a growth mindset. Through mentorship programs, student-led initiatives, community outreach, and arts and sports engagement, students build confidence and resilience that go far beyond academic performance.

5. World-Class Facilities

The learning environment plays a significant role in shaping students’ experiences. From open classrooms and innovation labs to creative arts spaces and sports infrastructure, facilities in the best international schools, like Legacy School, offer thoughtfully designed spaces that support a variety of learning styles. Whether it’s a state-of-the-art science lab, a serene outdoor learning area, or a fully equipped performance studio, the campus infrastructure reflects a commitment to holistic education.

Choosing the right school is about finding the right fit—not just academically, but emotionally and culturally. A great international school is one where students are seen, heard, and challenged; where diversity is celebrated, curiosity is nurtured, and learning is a lifelong journey.

Being one of the Top International Schools in Bangalore, Legacy School embodies these values and continues to serve as a model of what international education can and should be—a launchpad for future-ready, globally-minded individuals.

So if you’re in the process of starting anew, now might just be the perfect season to choose a school that helps your child thrive in every way.