The British School in New Delhi won the top gong at the British International Schools Awards, thanks to a burgeoning pupil base and “exceptional” exam results across Indian and international curriculums.
School director Vanita Uppal was in London to receive the award, which was given to what organisers described as “one of the best schools in India” and that is “considered to be one of the best British schools in the world”.
CEO of information systems provider WCBS, Emma Goodwin, presented the award and said that “[International schools] frequently amaze us with their innovative and rigorous educational approaches and commitment to sustained best practice”.
Schools in Chicago and Bangkok also won awards at the central London event.
Speaking earlier in 2018,
ISC Research schools director Richard Gaskell said that ISC’s recent research has uncovered a shift in the type of student that British international schools attract.
“Recent increased clarity in China’s private education law has been a big benefit for investment”
“As more international schools have opened around the world and incomes have increased… International schools, which offer a Western-style of teaching and learning in the language of English, and international curricula working towards globally-respected qualifications, have become the preferred route for an increasing number of local, as well as expatriate families.”
He added that more than 80% of students now attending international schools are the children of local parents, often seeking pathway to undergraduate degrees around the world.
ISC reports that the growth and interest in international schools is far from waning, with new projects – often specifically with local children in mind – proving popular the world over.
In China, ISC’s Grace Shi explained that the growth in school numbers is matched by the interest shown from parents.
“Waiting lists are extensive at all good international schools and much more school development is expected. Several schools are due to open including the British independent school brands of King’s College School and Lucton School in September 2018,” she said.
Arlo Kipfer added that legal changes have also had an effect in China.
“Recent increased clarity in China’s private education law has been a big benefit for investment,” he said. “Certain school entities can now legally receive dividends.”
In Saudi Arabia, Nalini Cook related that another legal change could spell success for international schools.
“If the law allowing 100% foreign ownership of education comes into effect, there will be huge opportunities for investors in Saudi Arabia in the near future,” she said.
