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Learning support at international schools

Provision for students with learning differences (dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, ASD, EAL where it overlaps with learning needs) and for students needing accommodations in mainstream classes. Quality varies enormously across schools.

What learning support covers

Provision for students with learning differences (dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, ASD, EAL where it overlaps with learning needs) and for students needing accommodations in mainstream classes. Quality varies enormously across schools.

What good looks like

Dedicated learning support coordinator, individualised learning plans with regular review, structured in-class support, and a clear progression framework. Strong schools publish their approach and outcomes for learning support students.

Costs

Most schools include basic learning support in tuition. Significant ongoing support (1:1 sessions, specialist tutoring within school hours) often incurs additional fees of USD 3,000 to 12,000 per year. Verify before committing.

How to evaluate

Visit the learning support area during a school tour. Meet the coordinator. Ask for a sample learning plan and example progression outcomes. Find out the maximum number of learning support students per teacher.

When the school is not a fit

Some international schools are honest that they cannot serve specific learning needs. Take that honesty seriously; placing a child in an unsuitable school costs more than the time spent finding a fitter one. See SEN at international schools.

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