A warm welcome from the Head of School

 

Choosing the right school for your child is a major decision — especially when living abroad or aiming to provide a globally oriented education. Families are often faced with two main options: a British school or an international school.
While both types of schools share common goals, they differ in their teaching approaches, curricula, and cultural environments.

Discover the key differences between these two educational models to help you choose the option best suited to your child’s needs.


What is a British school?

British schools are based on the UK’s national education system, known for its academic rigour and clearly defined structure. Pupils follow an English-language curriculum organised into key stages that correspond to the different phases of their education.

A structured and widely recognised curriculum

The British education system is divided into key stages, spanning from Early Years (nursery) through to the end of secondary education (Sixth Form). The main stages include:

• Key Stages 1 and 2 – Primary School
• Key Stages 3 and 4 – Secondary Schoo
• Sixth Form – Equivalent to the final two years of secondary school (Years 12 and 13), with preparation for A Level examinations

At the end of Key Stage 4, pupils sit the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) exams. Those who continue into Sixth Form work towards their A Levels — a qualification that opens doors to universities in the UK, across Europe, and around the world.

A strong anglo-saxon cultural foundation

British schools place great emphasis on independence, critical thinking, and active participation in the classroom. Sport, the arts, and extracurricular activities also play a key role in the holistic development of each pupil.

For example, Mougins British School, located in the south of France — follows this model closely while fully embracing the diversity and richness that define an international school environment.

What is an international school?

The term international school is broader in scope. It refers to schools that welcome pupils from a variety of national backgrounds and typically offer instruction in English, based on an international curriculum or one adapted to multiple educational systems.

A more globalised curriculum

International schools may offer a variety of programmes, including:

• The International Baccalaureate (IB)
• The American system (AP, SAT)
• The British curriculum (IGCSE and A Levels)

Other national or hybrid curricula

The aim is to provide an education accessible to expatriate pupils or those from multilingual families. Teaching emphasises tolerance, intercultural openness, and global competencies.

A more pronounced cultural diversity

International schools are often seen as multicultural hubs. Pupils mix with classmates from all over the world, fostering a unique openness of mind. The teaching is generally more flexible, with a strong focus on modern languages, collaboration, and intercultural understanding.

Combining the strengths of both British and international schools, Mougins School fully embodies the values of diversity, tolerance, and cultural openness.

 

British school or international school: what are the real differences?

While some British schools are sometimes also described as international, there are notable differences to consider.

Points of comparison

Here are the main distinctions to keep in mind:

• Curriculum: A British school follows a curriculum strictly aligned with the UK national curriculum, renowned for promoting pupils’ well-being and holistic development through subjects such as positive education and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic education).
  In contrast, an international school’s curriculum can vary significantly from one institution to another.
   
• Language of Instruction: The primary language of instruction is predominantly English in both cases, but some international schools offer a wider linguistic variety, allowing pupils to learn additional languages alongside English. At Mougins School, English is the main language of instruction. However, all pupils from Year 1 to Year 9 receive two hours of French lessons each week. From Year 7 and above, this is supplemented by two hours of Spanish lessons per week.
   
• Student Body: International schools often welcome a more diverse population, with a high proportion of expatriate pupils. Considered both a British and an international school, Mougins School hosts a significant British community as well as many other nationalities, due to its location on the French Riviera.
   
• Educational Objectives: The British model prioritises academic performance, whereas the international model emphasises versatility, adaptability, and humanistic values. Mougins School combines the best of both approaches by fully integrating interpersonal skills, open-mindedness, and the values that define international schools.

Advantages of a British school

Choosing a British school offers many benefits, including:

• A clear and structured academic pathway
• Internationally recognised qualifications (IGCSEs, A Levels)
• Strong preparation for higher education
• A culture of excellence and individual responsibility
• Teachers trained within the British education system

Mougins School is a prime example of this academic rigour combined with a caring, supportive approach.

Mougins School – British excellence in an international setting

Located on the French Riviera, Mougins School perfectly embodies the balance between British tradition and international openness. The school welcomes pupils from over 55 nationalities in a nurturing, stimulating, and multicultural environment.

A demanding and globally recognised curriculum

Mougins School follows the British Curriculum, with teaching delivered in English from Early Years through to Sixth Form. Pupils prepare for IGCSE examinations, followed by A Levels — qualifications that open the doors to some of the world’s most prestigious universities.

The Thrive Programme: beyond academics

Beyond the academic path, our private school has introduced the Thrive Programme: dedicated sessions focused on personal development, mental health, leadership, and essential life skills. This programme aims to nurture confident, well-balanced individuals who are ready to face the challenges of the modern world.

An exceptional learning environment

Nestled in a natural setting in the south of France, Mougins School offers pupils a calm and inspiring atmosphere that supports effective learning. Modern facilities, a wide range of sports and arts activities, and personalised attention to each child make this school an outstanding choice for families seeking both academic rigour and student well-being.

With its balanced approach, Mougins School represents the very best of British education while meeting the demands of a globalised world.