Ok, firstly - I know there have been several threads on this subject but I am still not finding what I am looking for so looking for any advice!! We move to Brussels the end of June this year (specifically to allow our two little ladies (aged 5 and 7) the time to settle in before school). We are on expat contract with my work so schools covered and relocation agent first meeting done and I am so much more confused than I expected!! The first options given were the 2 schools above (also the British School but I would not be willing to live so far out of the city). My office is Uccle but I will be travelling in Europe a lot so not such a big consideration.
So! my questions are as follows:
1. My girls (despite all encouragement, classes, creche etc) are basically shy and not so open to change (neither was I at their age so unfortunately its in the genes!). I had originally considered local schooling but I could not face the idea of them not understanding any potential friends (the schooling I could get over) so opted for international schooling. What are the experiences of others? Just keep in mind - mine won't even go to Ballet as they would have to attend a class alone - they are both in school but it took 3 months before the younger one stopped crying each morning.....are any of your kids in either of these schools - what are your experiences? It seems the first is small and community based (how small though?) while the other has lots more facilities but very large (will they be lost in it?)
2. Where to live! End of Ixelles near the BEPS school - Uccle (public transport seems poor) - Watermael? Any other suggestions. My hubbie won't work at the beginning so fine to get the girls to school but longer term I am thinking either Au Pair or lots of granny visits when we are not available - so need to live near school - right?
3. Am I making a big mistake in not going for local schooling?
Thanks!!