If you're moving to Sao Paulo, I highly recommend that you send your application to the Graded (www.graded.br/) as soon as you hear about the possibility of moving to Sao Paulo. Also apply to other schools, to be on the safe side.
There are many expats moving to Brazil right now and, even tough americans have priority on the wait list, the Graded is completely packed right now and the wait list is huge! I mean, HUGE! But don't hate Lisa, she is awesome and I know that if she could she would find a way to accommodate everybody.
The other options:
There is the Chapel School (http://www.chapelschool.com/), a catholic school in Alto da Boa Vista. In my opinion is not as good as the Graded but it would be my second option.
Then there's PACA (http://www.paca.com.br/), a christian school. PACA was never an option for me. From what I've heard they are not accredited but still academically strong - the kids bring home lots of homework.
Other then this, there are the British Schools:
St. Francis (http://www.stfrancis.com.br/) would be my first option out of the british schools. It is more low key than Saint Paul's and has more students who are native english speakers.
Last but not least, St. Paul's (http://www.stpauls.br/). This school has extremely rich brazilians as the vast majority of their students. Some are more equal than others there. The brazilians don't really mingle with the foreigners, plus parental involvement is discouraged.
I wouldn't overlook the Swiss School (http://www.esbsp.com.br/). Actually, when we were about to move this was our third option.
There are some bilingual schools. They are an option if your children speak portuguese or are young enough to learn it without impairing their learning.
As for the schools in Mexico, I still would rather not go there. Same old issues but more american parents and teachers complaining about it.
Good luck!!
2 comments:
Hello, thanks for the blog, it’s a useful reference. A question.
We’re considering moving to Sao Paulo. We’re British. Our eldest is 12. Naturally we are looking at St Paul’s and St Francis. Interested in your rating St Francis before St Paul’s. Our eldest has dyslexia, which pulls him back. He benefits from an environment where there are smaller classes, and a more pastoral environment. It’s important to keep him tied to the British curriculum. But we need a school that goes the extra mile for the pupil. In this context, what would you recommend.
Regards
Hi Millie!
I am dyslexic myself, so I do understand your needs. My kids did not attend St. Francis or St. Paul's. They are Graded Alumini and my opinion on the british schools is solely based on Friends opinions and experiences. I had 10 friends with kids at St. Paul's and 8 with kids at St. Francis. A few of them moved their kids from St.Paul's to St. Francis for different reasons. They were happier at St. Francis.
I can not make a decision for you. I highly recommend a visit to both schools so you can have a better idea of their views, class sizes, if they have an optimal learning center or not, etc..
You should also visit St. Nicholas. I do not have a formed opinion about them. If you're going on a look and see you should maximize your time and look at all the options.
Every experience is personal and you will know better than anyone else what the right environment for your child will be. Keep an open eye and an open mind. And be prepared! Have a list with all the questions you need to ask with you. They will be trying to sell the school to you, showing you only the good.
Good luck!!
Post a Comment