When choosing a private English-language school, parents expect much more than simply “improving their child’s English.” The expectations are higher: that the child will speak freely, reveal their abilities, and study with genuine interest. For this, a real language environment is essential - one where English becomes a natural part of life: at home, outdoors, or while traveling.

English Through Real Communication - Not Memorization

In an international school children don’t study the language - they use it. Every day. In every situation.

Here is what a typical day at CIS International School looks like:

- Science lesson with Ms. Kim: students conduct an experiment, mix solutions, and explain why a reaction occurred. Even shy children speak out - the teacher supports them with guiding questions.

- Geography with Mr. John: students discuss climate, assemble a “mini world map,” and debate why Chile has such diverse landscapes.

- Math with Mr. Michael: fractions are explained through “pizza.” Children divide slices, laugh, and discuss the task - all in English.

This is how natural bilingualism forms: English becomes part of a child’s daily life gently and naturally, yet very effectively.

Learning with native teachers: a result you can truly feel

Working with native-speaking teachers is a standard in international schools and one of the key factors that differentiates them from traditional education.

When a child hears live English every day, participates in projects, debates in class, performs on stage, or presents their work i English becomes a working tool rather than “homework.”

This provides:

- a natural language environment - the child begins thinking in English rather than translating;

- confidence and zero fear of making mistakes;

- access to international teaching methodologies - projects, experiments, teamwork;

- broader worldview and cultural respect;

- rapid growth of academic English - the foundation for IGCSE and A-level.

Individual approach in small classes

International schools strictly regulate the number of students per class: usually no more than 15–18 children.

The teacher has time for everyone.

- a quiet child receives a role in a paired project that helps them open up;

- a strong student gets a mini research task - model a volcano or write a short story;

- those who need help receive additional explanations - but with no pressure.

There are no «weak» or «strong» children - only children progressing at their own pace. The teacher becomes a mentor. This is how independence, flexible thinking, and confidence are built.

Modern academic programmes: IGCSE and A-level

International private schools often offer the prestigious IGCSE and A-level programmes - the gold standard of international education.

These programmes teach children to think, explore, speak, debate, draw conclusions, and test ideas in practice. Every subject becomes a small laboratory, creative studio, or discussion space. Students do not repeat after the teacher - they search, question, analyse.

IGCSE (ages 14-16) - the first serious academic stage

Students gain:

- analytical thinking skills;

- strong academic English;

- ability to work with texts, tables, and graphs;

- a foundation for A-level.

A-level (ages 16-18)

- a programme that opens doors to world universities

Students:

- choose only 3-4 subjects for deep specialisation;

- study like real university students;

- write research projects and essays;

- present at conferences;

- build a strong academic portfolio.

After successfully completing A-level exams, graduates receive an internationally recognised certificate - a powerful competitive advantage.

In Russia, many graduates enter MGIMO, HSE, or MSU. Internationally, popular destinations include Oxford, Cambridge, King’s College, University of Amsterdam, NYU, and many others.

Age groups: from first words to an international diploma

CIS offers a smooth, well-structured educational pathway:

Early Years (2.5-5 years)

Play-based learning, music, sensory development, first English words, social skills.

Primary (5-11 years)

First projects, teamwork, early curiosity formation.

Lower Secondary (11-14 years)

Critical thinking, academic English, first subject-based research.

IGCSE & A-level (14-18 years)

Deep specialization, future career choices, preparation for global universities.

This is a unified, logical, and comfortable developmental trajectory.

Location: prestigious and eco-friendly areas

Private English-language schools in Moscow are located where families value safety, greenery, and infrastructure.

CIS campuses are conveniently located in:

- Gorki - an exclusive eco-campus in Rublyovo–Uspenskoye residences.

- Skolkovo - a modern, international campus in the innovation district of Skolkovo.

- Moscow (Festivalnaya St.) - a private, enclosed campus in a green district of Northern Moscow.

Tuition Fees

Tuition varies significantly and depends on teaching quality, international programmes, and facilities. Prices typically start from €15,000 per year, with installment options and discounts for families with several children. You can choose a campus and calculate the price here.

At CIS, tuition already includes:

- education under two programmes (international & Russian) taught by native-speaking teachers from various countries;

- textbooks and materials for the international curriculum (Primary, Secondary, IGCSE, A-level);

- modern laboratory and creative equipment;

- clubs, creative projects, sports events;

- psychological support services;

- four daily meals.

How to choose a private English-language school

Choosing an international school is not only about beautiful spaces and prestigious programmes. It is about a place your child will want to go to every day.

Here are four steps to help you evaluate the true quality of a school:

Step 1. Evaluate the academic programme - the heart of the school

Look for:

- which programmes are offered;

- how closely they follow international standards;

- opportunities for project-based learning;

- availability of academic support.

Review student work, project weeks, performances, Science Week — these show how the programme really works.

Step 2. Visit the school and feel the atmosphere

Photos won’t show:

- how teachers speak with children;

- whether students feel calm and confident;

- how the classrooms “feel.”

Pay attention to:

- student behaviour and well-being;

- teacher openness;

- condition of labs and facilities;

- safety and closed territory.

Step 3. Speak with teachers and administration

Ask about:

- support for children with different English levels;

- adaptation processes;

- approaches to motivation;

- teaching methods used by native-speaking staff;

- how progress is measured.

A good school answers openly, without clichés.

Step 4. Read reviews from parents and students

Reviews reveal what you won’t see during a tour:

- school flexibility and attentiveness;

- communication with families;

- how issues are resolved;

- whether children are genuinely happy.

Check success stories: university admissions, olympiad achievements, conferences.

FAQ

At what age can a child enter a private international school?

Most schools accept children from 2.5-3 years old. Early Years offers a gentle immersion into English through play, creativity, and communication with native teachers.

Which documents are required for admission?

Typically:

- birth certificate;

- medical records;

- photos;

- parent application;

- previous school reports.

What is the cost of studying in an international school?

It depends on the programme (Primary, Secondary, IGCSE, A-level) and facilities.

At CIS Moscow, tuition starts at €15,000 per year.

Installments and family discounts are available.

Which international exams does the school prepare for?

- IGCSE- first major academic qualification.

- A-level - international gold standard for university entry worldwide (Europe, UAE, Canada, Asia).

Conclusion

An international school is much more than learning English.

It is a place where a child:

- communicates freely with native-speaking teachers;

- develops critical thinking;

- gains academic confidence;

- grows in an environment of respect and cultural diversity;

- receives strong preparation for entry into leading global universities.

The main criterion is your child.

A school should inspire, support, and reveal their strengths - helping them build a future without borders.

If during your school visit you feel warmth, confidence, and calm - you’ve found the right place.

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