Stavanger, Norway

What are the schools in Stavanger like?

"Be careful about: 1. Childcare provision for school holidays. There is no provision for about 9 weeks of the year so if both parents work it is not a feasible solution 2. If your child requires anything that is different to the schools standard procedures, accept that you will have to go through some heartache to convince them of your child's needs. 3. The children get a lot out of the activities offered, and all seem to be happy so I would say my gripes are only about administration rather than happiness of the child," remarked another expat living in Stavanger with children attending British International School of Stavange (BISS).

"I would not be sold on the glitz and glamour of this school. The ratio for teacher-aids, counselors and people of that nature is way too small. It is a great school if you have a middle of the road student but little effort or support is offered to high end and low end students. Finding out exactly what the curriculum your child will be learning is nearly impossible. You are provided with a very general summary. The administration is slow to make progress and keep current with modern teaching strategies. There is a music program for middle schoolers but due is not properly staffed to provide a good education in music. The ratio for teacher-aids, counselors and people of that nature is way too small. Finding out exactly what the curriculum your child will be learning is nearly impossible. You are provided with a very general summary. To be honest, this school is past its time. It is surviving on reputation alone," said another expat in Stavanger with children at International School of Stavanger.

"ISS is an amazing school environment, provides an excellent all-around education for children, and is highly supportive of parents and families. Visit the school and you'll understand immediately what a wonderful place it is," remarked another parent with kids at The International School of Stavanger in Stavanger.

"I couldn't be happier with this school. I have had 2 children there for the past 3 years and the children love the school and their teachers. I am sad that my oldest will be going on to school because she has been so well cared for at the Children's House and I wonder how her new school will be. The teachers all have their own email addresses and each classroom has their own telephone number. It is extremely easy to get a hold of the teachers and they address every concern, big or small, immediately. They helped potty train the youngest, they have been an immense support for my oldest who has needed extra help. They are helping acclimate my youngest to having to wear glasses. They have a speech therapist/special education teacher that don't cost any extra. She is excellent. They also have a music teacher that comes in and visits each class once a week. The loving care offered and the quality of this school is wonderful. My husband and I both work full time so our children are both in the childcare and school programmes. The fact that my children love going to the Children's House helps alleviate the guilt of leaving your kids every day. This is not a "child storage fa cility". My kids have learned their colors and shapes, letters and numbers, the oldest has begun to learn how to read and write and can do simple math, they have gym and dance, plant and bake, do art projects, and learn about topics such as space, vikings, trolls, nature etc. When they first started at the school they literally cheered when they saw the building every morning - what more could you want?," explained one expat living in Stavanger, Norway.

"Definitely consider it, but do it quickly as places fill up fast. The parent community is very friendly and inviting to everyone. The last PA meeting I went to included Norwegians, Americans, Canadians, British, Scottish, Polish, Dutch, Italians and Australians. It is very international in nature and a fun yet academically strong programme for children," said another parent with children at The British International School of Stavanger in Stavanger.

"You should do it!! The school is open to all nationalities. My child has over 9 nationalities in her classroom including American, British, Australian, Canadian, Norwegian, Polish and Singaporean. The school books up VERY QUICKLY and is a real favourite with parents because of its extremely gentle and child welcoming approach. So if you are considering enroling your child you should do it as soon as possible. The registration drive takes place in February for the following year. By the way, the school also provides a free Mother and Toddler group for anyone with a baby or toddler. You do not have to be associated with the school to go and is a favourite with parents of babies and toddlers," commented one expat when asked about The International Pre-School in Stavanger.