British Schools in Central and South America are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best British Schools in Central and South America, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why families choose a British school in Central and South America?
Cultural Familiarity in a Global Context
Choosing the right school is paramount for many families living in Central and South America, and British schools are often at the top of the list. One of the primary reasons families lean towards British education is the blend of cultural familiarity combined with an international outlook. British schools maintain a curriculum that is globally recognized and respected, particularly by universities and employers worldwide. This makes them an attractive option for families who prioritize academic excellence and global mobility.
High Standards of Education
British schools are renowned for their high educational standards. The curriculum is rigorous, structured, and designed to foster critical thinking from an early age. Subjects like English Literature, Science, and Mathematics are taught with a depth that prepares students exceptionally well for higher education. Moreover, the emphasis on extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, and social service enriches student experiences, helping develop well-rounded individuals.
English Proficiency
As the world becomes increasingly globalized, proficiency in English is seen as a key advantage. British schools in Central and South America offer an immersive English-speaking environment, which is a significant draw for families. This exposure not only enhances academic and professional prospects but also eases international travel and communication.
Expat and Local Community Integration
For expatriate families, these schools provide a sense of community and familiarity amidst foreign settings. They serve as a gathering spot for expat families facing similar cultural adjustments. For local families, these institutions offer a platform for their children to interact with international peers, promoting cultural exchange and global understanding from a young age.
Structured Pathways to Higher Education
British schools often have well-established pathways to the world’s leading universities. This is particularly compelling for parents with aspirations of their children continuing their education in the UK, the US, or elsewhere. The guidance provided by these schools in terms of preparation for university entrance exams, like the A-Levels, is invaluable. They also often boast strong alumni networks that help students secure placements in prestigious institutions.
Values and Discipline
The ethos of a British education system often emphasizes values such as discipline, respect, and integrity. These schools are known for enforcing a disciplined environment that aids in character building. The uniformity in dress code and conduct goes a long way in instilling a sense of responsibility and pride among students.
Top rated British Schools in Central America 2025
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King’s College, Panama
Panama City, Panama •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - EnglishYearly fee: from 7,995 to 23,624 EUR
Foundation: 2012Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: IB Diploma - IGCSEKing’s College School Panama is a world-class international private school in Clayton, Panama, bordering the beautiful Panamanian rainforest and conveniently located near the vibrant city centre.As a diverse, inclusive British international school in Panama, we are proud to deliver an exemplary, values-based education. Our British school in Clayton offers a unique educational pathway for students aged 2 to 18, starting with the Reggio Emilia approach for Early Years, followed by…
One of the best private schools in Panama, King’s College offers outstanding international education, combining innovative teaching methods and global programmes to inspire creative, dynamic learners. As the only private school in Panama providing an accredited British curriculum and the IBDP, and the only High Performance Learning School in the Americas, our British international school empowers all students to achieve their full potential. At our leading international school in Clayton, Panama, we are proud to consistently exceed the global IBDP average, achieving an impressive 35 points in 2024 compared to the global average of 30.3. As an Inspired School, we follow The Three Pillars approach to learning: Academics are at the heart of all we do, supported by Sports and Creative and Perf...Annual tuition fees at King’s College, Panama range from EUR 7,995 to EUR 23,624, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Entrance feesFamilies can choose the plan that best suits their needs.Plan A: $1,000Plan B: $12,000Family discountA 15% discount on entrance and yearly tuition fees is offered for the third child.Paym...Boarding tuition: -
The Wingate School
Mexico City, Mexico •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
“This school has an environment that feels like a home with excellent professionals who are top in their fields. The education and values imparted to the children stand out far beyond what is offered by other institutions. I have had the privilege to experience The Wingate School first hand for the past 8 years from working here and having a child in attendance. I have seen them grow and transform over time as an institution as well as the students from little ones into thoughtful, intelligent teenage leaders that inspire, and empower their peers. With the integral character program these children are maturing not only their intelligence but also their capacity for empathy, responsibility, integrity and confidence. Developing both sides of the coin if you will, character and intelect, to work hand in hand to develop our future leaders.”School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Bilingual - English - SpanishYearly fee: from 168,300 to 299,200 EUR
Foundation: 2016Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: IB DiplomaThe Wingate School , part of Inspired Education network, is a leading British International School in Mexico City, dedicated to nurturing a community of critical thinkers who embrace a multicultural perspective and actively contribute to society.Our students benefit from a rigorous academic program rooted in the British curriculum, providing a strong foundation for success in a globalized world. We offer the Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum and IGCSEs, culminating in the…
TWS provides our pupils with an aligned curriculum. Each curriculum - IEYC in Kinder; the IPC in Primary; Cambridge courses in Forms 1, 2and 3; and the Cambridge IGCSE course in Forms 4 & 5 - takes in consideration the others. The students can see that the material studied, and skills practised, are highly apt. The IEYC and IPC are project-based, recognising that the acquisition of knowledge and skills is confluent. Our curriculum programmes will lead to the pre-university International Baccalaureate Diploma ProgrammeAnnual tuition fees at The Wingate School range from EUR 168,300 to EUR 299,200, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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King's College School, The Bahamas
The Bahamas, Nassau •Co-Education •- from 4
- to 12 years old
“In 2004 I was part of a pioneering expedition to Nexapa, Mexico; this proved to be the single most important event during my time at King’s College School. It not only helped me to win a place at the London School of Economics, but also formed me as a person and my understanding of the world, in such a meaningful way that it has entirely shaped my professional career.”School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 15,750 to 25,305 USD
Foundation: 2022Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: Cambridge - IB DiplomaKing’s College School, The Bahamas is part of Inspired, the leading global group of premium schools.Cambridge International Primary Curriculum; Cambridge International Secondary Curriculum; International Baccalaureate Diploma ProgrammeAnnual tuition fees at King’s College School, The Bahamas range from USD 15,750 to USD 25,305, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Top rated British Schools in South America 2025
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The British College of Brazil
Sao Paulo, Brazil •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
“As a parent at The British College of Brazil (BCB), I can say with confidence that this school offers something genuinely special. From the moment you walk through the doors, you feel the warmth of a close-knit community combined with the high standards of a leading international education. What stands out the most is how well BCB balances academic excellence with emotional wellbeing. The school follows the British curriculum all the way through to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, offering a rigorous yet supportive path that encourages critical thinking, curiosity, and independence. BCB’s teachers — many of whom are international — are not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to their students’ growth. The classes are small, and each child is known, supported, and challenged according to their individual needs. The community is incredibly diverse, with families from over 38 nationalities. This brings a global perspective to everyday learning and helps children feel comfortable and celebrated for who they are. The values of respect, kindness, and courage are embedded in the school culture — and you can see it in how students interact with each other and with staff. Our child loves going to school every day, and as a parent, I feel reassured knowing they are in a safe, happy, and inspiring environment. Whether you’re an expat looking for a smooth transition or a local family wanting a world-class education, BCB is a school where students thrive academically and personally! Highly recommended!”School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 90,000 to 129,000 EUR
Foundation: 2011Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: A Level - IB Diploma - IGCSEThe British College of Brazil, one of São Paulo’s most distinguished international schools, caters to students of 38 different nationalities.Along with the English National Curriculum, IGCSE and IB Diploma Program, our students learn Portuguese and Brazilian history, culture and geography. The British College of Brazil offers double certification. By obtaining the Brazilian diploma, students are allowed to continue their studies in Brazil, as the school is fully certified by the Ministry of Education. Small class sizes allow teachers to focus on the individual needs of each pupil. All teachers have outstanding professional credentials from the UK with relevant experience in delivering the English National Curriculum followed by the IGCSE in YEar 10 - 11 and the IB Diploma Program in Year 12. English speaking assistant teachers support all Primary classes. Top of the school’s priorities is the personal development of its student...Annual tuition fees at The British College of Brazil range from EUR 90,000 to EUR 129,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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British International School Colombia
Barranquilla, Colombia •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: English - French - SpanishYearly fee: from 63 to 71 EUR
Foundation: 1981Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: DELF - IB Diploma - MYPBritish International School (BIS) in Barranquilla, Colombia, is a trilingual institution and a proud member of Inspired Education, the world’s leading global school network. With over 43 years of academic excellence, BIS offers the IB Diploma Programme and a holistic curriculum emphasizing well-being, performing arts, and sports. Its modern facilities, global perspective, strong values, and commitment to character development make it a top choice for families seeking world-class education in…
British International School (BIS) offers a rigorous, globally recognized curriculum that prepares students for academic and professional success. As an IB World School, BIS provides the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the IB Diploma Programme, fostering critical thinking, research skills, and global citizenship. The school is divided into Early Years, Primary, and Secondary sections, ensuring a seamless educational journey. Its trilingual approach—English, Spanish, and French—enhances linguistic proficiency, while international exchange programs through Inspired Education Group broaden students' global perspectives. With a strong focus on well-being and leadership, BIS equips students to thrive in an ever-changing world.Annual tuition fees at British International School Colombia range from EUR 63 to EUR 71, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Summary
Families choose British schools in Central and South America for their rigorous academic standards, global curriculum, and immersive English-language environment. These schools not only prepare students for top universities worldwide but also foster a well-rounded character and cultural integration, making them ideal for both expatriate and local families aiming for high educational and professional achievements.