How does the British curriculum taught in Brussels differ from Belgian or International Baccalaureate systems?
A British-curriculum school follows the English National Curriculum structures (Early Years Foundation Stage, primary, secondary with IGCSEs and usually A-levels) and assesses students with UK-style public examinations at 16 and 18; some British schools in Brussels also offer IB options at post-16. Belgian state and European schools use different national or European frameworks, with different timetables, languages of instruction and assessment models, so families transferring between systems should check subject coverage and qualification recognition for onward university plans.
Will my child learn French or Dutch at a British school in Brussels?
Yes - most British-curriculum schools in Brussels teach French as a core modern language and many offer extensive French programmes or bilingual French-English pathways; Dutch may also be offered, especially in schools emphasising local integration. Language provision ranges from weekly language lessons to partial-immersion bilingual classes, so check each school’s timetable and the level of specialist language support for newcomers.
What range of fees should I expect and what do they usually include?
Fees vary by provider and by year group: published examples for British-curriculum schools in the Brussels area show annual tuition broadly from the low €10,000s up to the mid-€40,000s, with younger years usually cheaper and senior years more expensive. Schools differ on what is included - many include core classroom materials, some trips and basic extracurricular provision while extras such as meals, school transport, individual music lessons and certain trips are commonly charged separately - so request the full fee schedule and a list of inclusions and extras.
When should I apply and what documents or assessments are typically required?
Most families target a September start and begin enquiries many months in advance, but British schools in Brussels also accept applications year-round subject to space; busy entry years and popular age groups can have waiting lists, so early contact is advised. Typical application requirements are a copy of the child’s passport, proof of residence or work contract, recent school reports (translated if necessary), proof of vaccinations if requested, and an age-appropriate placement test or interview in English and sometimes in mathematics.
What ages and qualifications are covered by British international schools here?
Most British international schools in and around Brussels cover the full range from early years and primary through to secondary, preparing pupils for IGCSEs (around age 16) and then for either A-levels or alternative post-16 routes such as the IB or vocational BTEC courses. Confirm with each school whether they run the full 3-18 pathway on a single campus or if families need to change schools for sixth form, and ask how university guidance is organised for post-18 progression.
What should I check when comparing British-curriculum schools in Brussels?
Look for clear information on curriculum and exam pathways, the strength of language and newcomer support, formal accreditation or inspection reports, pastoral and special-educational-needs provision, and transparent fee and refund policies including what extras cost. Also consider practical factors such as location and transport, start-of-term and holiday calendars, and how the school supports transitions for internationally mobile families and university applications.}]}
