The Best Private Schools in The Bahamas: Your Ultimate Guide

Relocating to a different country can be both thrilling and daunting, particularly for expats with families. Among various considerations regarding the move, education is at the top of the list for families with children.

Many parents wonder— if we were to move to The Bahamas, will our children have access to world-class education in The Bahamas? 

The answer, a definite YES! 

Many international and private schools in The Bahamas offer various curriculum options you can choose from. Our agents at ERA Dupuch Real Estate, who often work with families and parents, understand this concern and can help customers choose neighbourhoods near the schools of their choice.

With the help of our experienced realtors, we've compiled this guide to brief you about the various educational institutes in the country and the type of education your child can receive in the schools in The Bahamas. 

Curriculum Options in the Schools in The Bahamas

Besides its stunning beauty, The Bahamas offers diverse educational options for native Bahamians and expats living in The Bahamas. 

From internationally recognised programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB) to the familiar structures of U.S. and British National curriculums, you won't miss out on world-class education in this island country.

International Baccalaureate Programmes

IB is a globally recognised educational programme aimed at enhancing students' intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skill sets. The academic framework in the IB programme is structured as follows:

• Primary Years Programme (PYP) Ages 3-12 years

• Middle Years Programme (MYP) Ages 11-16 years

• Diploma Programme (D.P.) Ages 16-19 years

• IB Career-Related Programme (C.P.) for ages 16-19 years

Evaluation Method:  Performance-based evaluations in six subject areas — utilise a wide range of assessment methods, including written examinations, oral presentations, coursework, and extended essays. The evaluation criteria focus on critical thinking, research skills, communication, and independent inquiry. 

Instructional Approaches:  Learning mainly involves inquiry, discussion, and collaborative projects. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and explore their interests.

International Context:  IB is inherently global, emphasising international-mindedness, intercultural understanding, and global citizenship.

U.S. Curriculum

The American curriculum emphasises a wide range of subjects from sciences to humanities, arts, and social sciences. The U.S. academic program is divided into three levels:

• Basic: Elementary school (K – Grade 5)

• Middle school (Grades 6-8)

• High school (Grades 9–12).

Evaluation Method:  The academic year is divided into semesters, and grades depend on results from various exams, assessments, personal achievements and participation in extracurricular activities. Students undertake standardised testing like the SAT or ACT for college admissions to measure proficiency in core subjects. 

Instructional Approaches:  Besides traditional classroom instructions, the programme involves interactive learning, group work, projects, presentations and co-curriculars.

International Context:  The programme prioritises global issues and multiculturalism, focusing on developing cultural awareness and understanding among students. 

British National Curriculum

The British curriculum focuses on core subjects like English, maths, and science. It takes a structured approach with a set curriculum followed by affiliated schools all over the world. The academic framework in the British programme is structured as follows:

• Early Years Foundation Stage Framework (EYFSF) Age 3-5 

• Key Stage 1: Age 5-7 years

• Key Stage 2: Age 7-11 years

• Key Stage 3: Age 11-14 years

• Key Stage 4: Age 14-16 years

Evaluation Method:  Students take a series of exams called IGCSEs.

Instructional Approaches:  The teaching style is based on traditional methods, including lectures, class discussions, practical investigation, and independent study.

International Context:  The U.K. curriculum is rooted in British history, culture, and literature. However, it dynamically adapts educational materials for global relevance to ensure students can connect seamlessly with the curriculum, fostering an international perspective.   

National Curriculum of The Bahamas

All Bahamian schools follow the national curriculum set by the Ministry of Education. It focuses on core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, physical education, and Bahamian culture and history. 

The curriculum is tailored to meet students' educational needs and foster a strong sense of national pride. The education system is structured in a 6-3-3 format.  

• Primary Education (six years) Age 5 to 11

• Secondary education consists of two equal parts of three years each. 

• Junior High Age 11 to 14 

• Senior High Age 14 to 17  

Evaluation Method:  Examinations are conducted in four stages — Grade Level Assessment Tests (GLAT) after grades 3 and 6, Bahamas Junior Certificate (BJC) after grade 9, and Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) as an exit exam, generally taken after grade 12.

Instructional Approaches:  Teacher-led teaching style prevails across all public schools, and students stick mainly to the textbook context. The Bahamian education system focuses on academic excellence and vocational skills.  

International Context:  The national curriculum may not be widely recognised outside The Bahamas, and students may find it challenging to gain admission to a foreign institution.

Top International and Private Schools in The Bahamas

An international move can be very stressful for families with school-going children. You can ensure a seamless educational transition for your children with international and private schools in The Bahamas. 

No matter where you come from or what your future destination is, these schools, with their supportive environment and international curricula, minimise the stress and adjustment for students. 

Let's look at some of the private and international schools in The Bahamas to ensure a smooth educational journey for your kids, positively impacting grades and overall well-being. 

1. King's College School

Location:  Western Rd, Nassau

Curriculum:  British and IB

Website:  https://www.kingscollegeschool.bs/

Neighbourhoods:  Lyford Cay, Mount Pleasant Village

King's College School is part of the global Inspired Group, boasting a chain of 110 schools across six continents. The instructional method is based on the Inspired Learning Approach, which emphasises hands-on learning and exceptional pastoral care to develop open-minded, creative, empathetic, and resilient individuals. 

For international readiness, the school offers global exchange programs fostering cultural exchange and global citizenship. Besides English, students also learn French and Spanish. 

2. Lyford Cay International School (LCIS)

Location:  Lyford Cay, Nassau

Curriculum: IB

Website:  https://www.lcis.bs/ 

Neighbourhoods:  Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay, West Bay Street, Sandyport, Charlotteville

Established in 1962, Lyford Cay International School is a beacon of educational excellence in the Caribbean. It's the only institution in The Bahamas to provide the full spectrum of International Baccalaureate programs, catering from preschool (18 months) to grade 12.

LCIS emphasises linguistic diversity and delivers instruction in both English and Spanish. Boasting a student body representing 41 nationalities, the school fosters a profound cultural harmony. 

3. Tambearly International School

Location:  Sandyport, Nassau

Curriculum:  U.S.

Website:  https://www.tambearly.org/

Neighbourhoods:  Sandyport, Cable Beach, Palm Cay, Goldwynn

Tambearly School follows a U.S. education system with inclusions from British, Bahamian, and Canadian programs to prepare students for admission to colleges and universities in any country around the globe. The school was established in 1985 and maintains rigorous educational standards. 

Students follow the pathway to the U.S. high school diploma. They can also pursue advanced placement courses to meet the criteria of international universities they want to join.

With A diverse teaching staff of Americans, Canadians, British, Colombian, and many other nationalities, the school fosters a strong sense of community and harmony to make students productive global citizens. Since it's a smaller establishment than other schools, Tambearly School offers an intimate environment for students, which expats prefer. 

4. Queen's College

Location:  Village Rd, Nassau

Curriculum:  Bahamas National Curriculum

Website:  https://www.qchenceforth.com/ 

Neighbourhoods:  Eastern Road, Windsor Lakes, Blair Estates, Palmdale, Downtown Nassau

Queen's College is the first and only Lighthouse school in the entire Caribbean, one of the few affordable schools in The Bahamas that provide quality education. It is a government grant-aided private school in Nassau and follows the Bahamas National Curriculum. 

The school also prepares its students to sit the SAT and GCE Advanced Levels tests and various other advanced placement examinations.

Apart from the standard curriculum, they feature an Acceleration Programme for higher grades, enabling students to pursue more rigorous courses.

5. Kingsway Academy

Location:  Bernard Rd, Nassau

Curriculum:  Bahamian National Curriculum

Website:  https://www.kingswayacademy.com/ 

Neighbourhoods:  Eastern Road, Windsor Lakes, Downtown Nassau, Blair Estates, Palmdale

Kingsway Academy was established in 1959 as the Charles Tatham Memorial School. It's an institution of Christian education in the Bahamas. Mr. C. Ernest Tatham founded that school as it strives to provide students with a nurturing environment rooted in faith. 

Since its inception, Kingsway Academy has remained true to its motto, Training Children In the King's Way, instilling values of integrity, compassion, and academic excellence in its students. 

With a focus on holistic development and spiritual growth, the academy provides a comprehensive curriculum that integrates Christian teachings into every aspect of learning. 

6. Lucaya International School (LIS)

Location:  Freeport, Grand Bahama

Curriculum:  British and IB

Website:  https://www.lisbahamas.com/

Neighbourhoods:  Fortune Bay, Bahama Reef, Lucaya

Founded in 1998, LIS boasts a 12-acre purpose-built campus and provides a dynamic academic program to nurture intellectual curiosity and personal growth. The curriculum is based on American, British, and other international programs to foster global educational practices and intercultural education. 

LIS has several international accreditations: Council of International Schools (CIS), the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), NAECOB (National Accreditation Equivalency Council of The Bahamas).

7. St. Andrew's School

Location:  Nassau East Blvd, New Providence

Curriculum:  IB

Website:  https://standrewsbahamas.com/ 

Neighbourhoods:  Eastern Road, Port New Providence, Palm Cay, Treasure Cove, Yamacraw, Winton

St. Andrew's School is one of the oldest schools in The Bahamas, providing quality education to both local and expat students. In 1948, the school was founded by a group of parents to prepare their children for admission into private boarding schools in Britain. 

Today, St. Andrew's School is an IB accredited school helping students recognise their potential, develop their unique talents, and become productive global citizens. The school offers a seamless transition for expat students from other IB schools and Its graduates are securing admissions to renowned institutions all over the world.

At the end of the Middle Years Diploma programme, students sit external examinations (IGCSE/BGCSE) in the various disciplines, and the IB Diploma candidates face external assessments/examinations that are taken at the end of the 2nd year (Grade 12).

8. Windsor School

Location:  Albany, Old Fort Bay, Nassau

Curriculum:  U.S. and STEM

Website:  https://www.windsorschoolbahamas.com/ 

Neighbourhoods:  Old Fort Bay, West Bay Street, Sandyport, Albany, Charlotteville, Love Beach, Venetian, Lyford Cay

Windsor School is an independent institution that follows a global curriculum derived from the best educational programs to provide a comprehensive educational journey from Pre-Reception to 12th grade. 

The school has two campuses on New Providence (Nassau) near Albany and Old Fort Bay, accommodating both boarding and day students. The school's commitment to small class sizes ensures strong teacher-student relationships for enriched learning experiences. 

Windsor School promotes cultural awareness and communication skills with a focus on English, French, and Spanish, preparing students for A.P. courses and SAT examinations. The six Albany Academies— Equestrian, Golf, Marine Biology, Music, STEM, and Tennis— offer unique opportunities for students to excel in the areas they're passionate about. 

9. Summit Academy 

Location:  East Bay St., Nassau

Curriculum:  British

Website:  http://www.summitacademybahamas.net/ 

Neighbourhoods:  Eastern Road, West Bay Street, Downtown Nassau, Blair Estates, Windsor Lakes

Summit Academy is a relatively small institution that provides a nurturing educational experience from preschool through middle school. Situated on the picturesque Lake Waterloo in Nassau, Bahamas, Summit Academy offers young learners a peaceful yet stimulating environment.

Since its establishment in 2003, the school has been committed to providing a holistic education that emphasises the child's moral, social, physical, emotional and spiritual development as much as their academic talents.

The small class sizes allow for more personalised attention, fostering a supportive atmosphere conducive to optimal learning. Christian values are emphasised, and students are encouraged to be involved in community work, such as fundraisers to support the less fortunate.

10. The Island School Eleuthera

Location:  Eleuthera

Curriculum: —

Website:  https://islandschool.org/ 

Neighbourhoods:  Jack’s Bay Club, Freetown

The Island School in Eleuthera offers education for pre-K( 3 years) to PhD with specialised semesters and summer school programmes. Students here experience a unique blend of outdoor learning, unconventional learning opportunities, and athletic emphasis. 

The early education begins at the Early Learning Center, a multiage classroom for 3 to 11 years. The academics include literary, mathematics, inquiry, and the arts only.

Deep Creek Middle School— for grades 7 through 9— provides an alternative, experiential approach to the Bahamian curriculum. High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors can only join a 100-day semester or a 6-week summer term. 

The Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) is integral to the school's mission, focusing on research, education, and conservation. It allows students to collaborate with scientists on diverse projects, from marine ecosystems to coral reefs, such as tagging sea turtles and nurse sharks.

Choosing the Right Private School For Your Child

Living in The Bahamas is a dream for many! Expats are making it a reality by investing in properties here and as you may have understood by now, schools in The Bahamas uphold global standards to ensure a smooth academic journey for expat kids. 

So, how do you decide which school is right for your child! Let’s discuss in detail. 

Addressing Educational Transitions

One of the primary concerns for expat families is how their kids are going to adjust to the change as they switch schools. International and private schools in The Bahamas provide a familiar environment and curriculum, minimising the stress and adjustment period for students from different educational systems. 

This seamless transition ensures your child's educational journey remains uninterrupted, positively impacting grades and overall well-being.

World-Class Education for Global Opportunities

Expats often seek schools that offer world-class education, preparing their children for admission to prestigious universities worldwide. 

Institutions like King's College School, Lyford Cay International School, St. Andrew’s International School, and Windsor School follow international curricula, such as British, IB, and U.S. curricula, ensuring students are well-equipped for global academic challenges. 

These schools prioritise academic excellence, linguistic diversity, and personalised learning experiences.

Consideration for Future Moves

For families anticipating further relocations, choosing a school that prepares students for adaptability is crucial. 

International curricula, like those offered by King’s College, Lyford Cay International School and Lucaya International School, emphasise global citizenship, cultural exchange programs, and a holistic approach to education. This ensures that your child can seamlessly adjust to different educational systems in the future. 

National Curriculum Considerations

While schools following the National Curriculum of The Bahamas, such as Tambearly School and Queen's College, may be suitable for those seeking government scholarships or grants, it's important to note that these credentials may not be universally recognised outside The Bahamas. 

Expats aiming for global educational opportunities often prefer schools with British, U.S., IB, or STEM curricula. 

Island and Neighborhood Dynamics

The choice of school in The Bahamas is intricately linked to the neighbourhood in which you reside. Each area  has unique offerings, and neighbourhoods vary in amenities, travel time, and cost of living. 

Considering your lifestyle preferences, community engagement, and proximity to the school is vital for a well-rounded educational experience for your child.

Navigating the diverse educational landscape in The Bahamas requires thoughtful consideration. Private and international schools offer seamless transitions, world-class education, and global adaptability. 

For families seeking a school and a holistic lifestyle, ERA Dupuch Real Estate is your partner in finding the perfect home. Elevate your child's educational journey by choosing the right school and the ideal residence with the help of our experienced local agents, and begin your future in The Bahamas with peace of mind.