Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Nashville
Summary: If you're moving to Nashville with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee, known for its vibrant music scene and southern charm, is also a city that caters to the educational needs of expat and digital nomad families. While Nashville may not have an extensive list of international or bilingual schools like some of the world's larger cities, it does offer a selection of reputable institutions that provide quality education with an international perspective. Two of the most popular schools among the expat community are the International School of Nashville and the Nashville French School, both known for their diverse student bodies and strong academic programs.
International School of Nashville (ISN)
Grades: Pre-K through Grade 8
Location(s): Nashville
Website: www.lindenwaldorf.org
The International School of Nashville, operating under the umbrella of Linden Waldorf School, offers a Waldorf education that emphasizes holistic learning and creative thinking. While not strictly an international school, it attracts a diverse community with its unique curriculum that includes language immersion programs in Spanish and German. The school boasts a vibrant arts program, hands-on learning experiences, and a commitment to fostering a global perspective among its students.
Nashville French School
Grades: Pre-K through Grade 4
Location(s): Nashville
Website: www.nashvillefrenchschool.org
The Nashville French School offers a bilingual education with instruction in both French and English. Catering to young learners, the school follows the French national curriculum and is accredited by the French Ministry of Education. The school's mission is to provide students with a multicultural education that prepares them for a globalized world. With small class sizes and a focus on cultural enrichment, the Nashville French School is an excellent choice for expat families seeking a bilingual education for their children.
Franklin Road Academy
Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Nashville
Website: www.franklinroadacademy.com
Franklin Road Academy, while not an international school per se, offers an inclusive community with a diverse student body. The school provides a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum and a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. With a strong emphasis on character education and service learning, Franklin Road Academy prepares students to be global citizens and leaders.
Harding Academy
Grades: Pre-K through Grade 8
Location(s): Nashville
Website: www.hardingacademy.org
Harding Academy is a co-educational day school that offers a balanced approach to education, combining rigorous academics with arts, athletics, and service learning. The school's curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing students for success in high school and beyond. While Harding Academy does not offer a bilingual program, it does provide Spanish language instruction starting in Pre-K.
Ensworth School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Nashville
Website: www.ensworth.com
Ensworth School is a coeducational independent school that emphasizes a well-rounded education with a strong liberal arts foundation. The school offers a variety of honors and AP courses, as well as a comprehensive arts program and competitive athletics. Ensworth's commitment to diversity and inclusion makes it a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.
Battle Ground Academy
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Franklin, TN (near Nashville)
Website: www.battlegroundacademy.org
Battle Ground Academy, located just a short drive from Nashville in Franklin, TN, offers a college-preparatory education with a strong emphasis on personal development and leadership. The school's curriculum includes a wide range of AP courses, and students are encouraged to engage in community service and extracurricular activities. Battle Ground Academy's global studies program and cultural exchange opportunities make it an attractive option for expat families.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
First Published: May 31, 2024