Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
The Seychelles, a paradise archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is attracting more and more expatriates seeking an exceptional living environment. For families, children’s education is a major concern. Fortunately, the Seychelles has excellent international schools offering quality education. In this article, we will explore the best educational options for expatriates, as well as the financial aspects to consider for a successful relocation to this small tropical paradise.
An Overview of the Education System in the Seychelles
Before diving into the details of international schools, it’s important to understand the local educational context. The Seychellois school system is based on the British model, with English and French as the main languages of instruction, alongside Seychellois Creole. Education is compulsory from ages 6 to 16 and free in public schools.
However, many expatriates opt for international schools, which offer globally recognized programs and facilitate the transition for children accustomed to other educational systems. These institutions typically provide curricula in English, sometimes with bilingual or trilingual options.
International schools in the Seychelles stand out for their modern pedagogical approach, quality facilities, and multicultural environment. They effectively prepare students to pursue higher education abroad while offering them a rewarding experience in a unique tropical setting.
Good to know:
International schools in the Seychelles generally follow the British or international academic calendar, which may differ from the local calendar. It’s important to take this into account when planning your relocation.
The Best International Schools in the Seychelles
1. French School of Seychelles
Address: Mont Fleuri, Mahé, Seychelles Annual Cost: Approximately €7,000 to €9,000 per year
The French School of Seychelles is the reference institution for the French-speaking community in the Seychelles. Accredited by the French Ministry of National Education, it offers education from kindergarten through high school in accordance with French curricula.
- Bilingual French-English instruction
- Preparation for the French Baccalaureate
- Qualified and experienced teaching staff
- Varied extracurricular activities
This school stands out for its innovative pedagogical approach and commitment to sustainable development. Students benefit from a stimulating learning environment with small class sizes allowing for personalized follow-up. The institution also emphasizes cultural openness, regularly organizing exchanges with other international schools.
2. International School Seychelles (ISS)
Address: Chemin La Misère, Mont Fleuri, Mahé, Seychelles Annual Cost: Between €8,000 and €12,000 per year
International School Seychelles is one of the most renowned international schools in the archipelago. It welcomes students from over 40 different nationalities, from kindergarten through high school.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) program
- Excellent sports and cultural facilities
- Strong focus on information technology
- Unique outdoor education program
ISS stands out for its holistic approach to education. Beyond academic excellence, the school emphasizes students’ personal and social development. Its outdoor education program leverages the exceptional environment of the Seychelles to teach conservation and sustainability. Students regularly participate in community and environmental projects, strengthening their ecological awareness and civic engagement.
3. Independent School Seychelles
Address: Anse Royale, Mahé, Seychelles Annual Cost: Approximately €6,000 to €8,000 per year
Independent School Seychelles offers an interesting alternative, combining the Seychellois national curriculum with elements of the British system. This hybrid approach allows students to benefit from the best of both worlds.
- Trilingual instruction (English, French, Creole)
- Strong emphasis on arts and local culture
- Small class sizes
- Personalized mentoring program
This school distinguishes itself through its personalized approach to education. Each student benefits from a mentoring program tailored to their needs and aspirations. The institution also emphasizes the integration of Seychellois culture into the curriculum, offering students an educational experience truly rooted in the local context while maintaining international standards.
Good to know:
International schools in the Seychelles often have waiting lists. It’s recommended to apply early, ideally 6 to 12 months before the desired start date.
Budget to Plan for an Expatriate in the Seychelles
Relocating to the Seychelles as an expatriate requires careful financial planning. Beyond tuition fees, several other aspects need to be considered to establish a realistic budget.
Housing
Housing often represents the most significant expense for expatriates. Prices vary considerably depending on location and property type:
- 2-bedroom apartment in city center: €1,500 to €2,500 per month
- 3-bedroom villa with garden: €2,500 to €4,000 per month
It’s important to note that areas popular with expatriates, such as Beau Vallon or Eden Island, tend to be more expensive. Some employers offer packages that include housing, which can significantly reduce costs.
Food and Daily Living
The cost of living in the Seychelles is relatively high, particularly for imported products. A monthly budget for a family of four might break down as follows:
- Food: €800 to €1,200
- Transportation (including fuel): €200 to €300
- Entertainment and outings: €300 to €500
It’s recommended to prioritize local products and markets to reduce food expenses. Seafood and tropical vegetables are generally cheaper than imported products.
Health and Insurance
Although the Seychelles has a free public healthcare system for residents, many expatriates opt for international private health insurance. The cost can range between €200 and €500 per month for a family, depending on the coverage chosen.
Estimated Total Monthly Budget
Taking all these elements into account, a monthly budget for a family of four might be established as follows:
- Housing: €2,500
- Food and daily living: €1,500
- Tuition (for two children): €1,500 to €2,000
- Health and insurance: €400
- Entertainment and unforeseen expenses: €600
Total estimated: €6,500 to €7,000 per month
This budget can vary considerably depending on lifestyle and individual choices. It’s crucial to research thoroughly and carefully plan expenses before relocating.
Good to know:
Salaries in the Seychelles are generally higher than in many other countries, which can partially offset the high cost of living. However, it’s important to negotiate a salary package that takes these local realities into account.
Tips for Successful Integration
Relocating to the Seychelles with school-aged children requires careful preparation. Here are some tips to facilitate your integration:
Anticipate Administrative Procedures
Visa and residence permit procedures can take time. Start the process at least 6 months before your departure. For international schools, registrations often occur one year in advance. Don’t hesitate to contact institutions as soon as your expatriation project becomes concrete.
Get Involved in the Expatriate Community
The Seychelles hosts a dynamic expatriate community. Joining groups on social media or participating in local events can help you obtain valuable advice and create a support network. These contacts can be particularly useful for finding housing or understanding the subtleties of local life.
Learn the Basics of Seychellois Creole
Although English and French are widely spoken, learning a few phrases in Seychellois Creole will greatly facilitate your integration. This will show your interest in the local culture and help you in daily interactions.
Explore Extracurricular Activities
The Seychelles offers an ideal setting for many outdoor activities. Encourage your children to participate in water sports, hiking, or nature conservation clubs. These activities will complement their education and promote their development in their new environment.
Good to know:
Most international schools in the Seychelles organize orientation days for new families. Participate in these to facilitate your children’s integration and meet other expatriate parents.
Relocating to the Seychelles with children is an exciting adventure that requires careful preparation. The archipelago’s international schools offer excellent education standards in a paradise setting. Although the cost of living is high, the exceptional quality of life and unique opportunities for learning and personal development largely compensate for this investment. With good planning and an open approach, your family can fully enjoy this enriching experience in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
