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How to Choose an International School in Addis Ababa: A Parent’s Checklist
A practical, no-nonsense checklist for choosing an international school in Addis Ababa — from curriculum and safety to the questions to ask on your tour.
Choosing a school is one of the bigger decisions a family makes, and it is easy to be swayed by a glossy website. Here is a checklist to keep you focused on what matters.
1. Curriculum and portability
Decide whether you want Cambridge, IB or another system, and check it travels to wherever you might go next. Ask which curriculum is actually taught at your child’s grade today — not what is planned.
2. Safety and safeguarding
For young children this often matters most. Look at access control, supervision and how the school talks about safeguarding. You should feel the answer, not just read it.
3. Teachers
Ask about teacher qualifications, how many are international or multilingual, and how long they stay. Stable, certified staff are a strong signal.
4. Beyond academics
Robotics, science, sport, music, agriculture, nutrition — the "extras" shape a child as much as the textbooks. See what is real and running, not just listed.
5. The visit
- Can you tour during a normal school day and see real classes?
- Are the children engaged and at ease?
- Do the staff answer money and safety questions directly?
- Does your child light up when they imagine being there?
Trust the tour. A school worth choosing will welcome your questions and let you see it in motion.