Complete List of British International Schools in Brussels and Surrounding Areas
British International Schools
Some international schools in and around Brussels offer education based on the British Curriculum, a globally recognized educational framework known for its rigor, structured progression, and excellent university preparation.
Two main variations of this curriculum are typically offered:
- The National Curriculum of England (UK national curriculum)
- The Cambridge International Curriculum, developed by the University of Cambridge specifically for international schools
While slightly different in approach and content, both programs follow similar stages and lead to internationally recognized qualifications, such as the IGCSE and A Levels. The Cambridge program is particularly common in English-speaking international schools, designed to suit multicultural audiences while maintaining British academic standards.
In Brussels, international schools following the National Curriculum of England adapt their programs to meet the needs of students from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds, reflecting the international context in which they operate. Originating from a national framework, this curriculum gains a truly international dimension in global school settings.
The British education system is structured around several Key Stages, each corresponding to a specific age group and academic level. The final two stages lead to official exams: GCSE/IGCSE at age 16 and A Levels at age 18.
National Curriculum of England
The EYFS program is intended for children aged 2.5 to 5 and forms the foundation of learning in British schools. It emphasizes holistic child development through play, exploration, communication, and early literacy, numeracy, and creative skills. It generally includes Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Reception.
> List of schools with EYFS program
Primary school starts at age 5 and covers Key Stages 1 and 2. Pupils develop core skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and science, along with arts, physical education, and social learning. If used, the Cambridge Primary follows a similar structure with internationally adapted assessments.
> List of schools with British primary curriculum
During these years, students expand their learning across a wide range of subjects. The Cambridge Lower Secondary provides a clear framework for these levels with optional assessments. This stage prepares students for more specialized studies.
> List of schools with Key Stage 3 program
At this stage, students prepare for the GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) or IGCSE (International GCSE), depending on the curriculum followed. IGCSE, offered by Cambridge, is the international equivalent of GCSE with more flexibility for multicultural contexts. These exams are recognized globally and provide a strong foundation for post-compulsory education.
> List of schools with GCSE / IGCSE program
In the final two years, students choose 3 to 4 subjects to study in depth for A Levels, offered by both the UK national system and Cambridge International. These exams are essential for admission to universities in the UK and around the world.
> List of schools with A Levels / Cambridge International A Levels program
Cambridge International Curriculum
A solid foundation in communication, motor skills, exploration, and creativity, tailored for multicultural settings.
> List of schools with Cambridge Early Years
English instruction in core subjects, with optional assessments to track individual progress.
> List of schools with Cambridge Primary
Subject mastery with skills- and inquiry-based learning.
> List of schools with Cambridge Lower Secondary
Preparation for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), the globally recognized equivalent of GCSE.
> List of schools with Cambridge Upper Secondary
Advanced study in 3 to 4 subjects with final exams. This diploma grants access to universities worldwide, including in the UK, US, and Canada.
> List of schools with Cambridge Advanced – A Levels
List of British International Schools
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) | Cambridge Early Years – Preschool (ages 2,5 to 5)
Key Stage 1 & 2 | Cambridge Primary – Primary (ages 5 to 11)
Key Stage 3 | Cambridge Lower Secondary – Secondaire inférieure (ages 11 to 14)
Key Stage 4 | Cambridge Upper Secondary – GCSE / IGCSE (ages 14 to 16)
Key Stage 5 | Cambridge Advanced – Sixth Form / A Levels (ages 16 to 18)
Why choose a British curriculum school in Brussels?
- Rigorous, structured, and coherent academic teaching
- Internationally recognized qualifications (IGCSE and A Levels)
- In-depth English language learning in an authentic school context
- High-quality teaching approach fostering independence, creativity, and critical thinking
Explore below the list of international schools in Brussels offering the British and Cambridge curriculum: