Relocating to a new country can be both thrilling and overwhelming especially when you have children. For many expat families moving to Ireland, finding a good school that offers an internationally recognised curriculum is a top priority. If you’re planning a move and want to settle near strong expat hubs, you’ll be happy to know that Ireland boasts several excellent international schools nestled in family-friendly neighbourhoods.
At FindQo.ie, we understand that choosing the right location and school go hand in hand. In this guide, we explore top international schools near Ireland’s most popular expat communities so you can find the perfect match for both your home and your child’s education.
Dublin: A Magnet for Expats and Academic Excellence
Dublin continues to be the first choice for many expats and for good reason. It combines a vibrant international culture with world-class amenities, and yes, it also offers some of the finest international schools in the country.
St. Andrew’s College, Booterstown
Located in the leafy suburb of Booterstown, St. Andrew’s College is a prestigious co-educational school that offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma alongside a strong Irish curriculum. The area itself is home to many expat families, thanks to its close proximity to Dublin city centre and coastal charm.
International School of Dublin (ISD), Ballsbridge
Set in the upmarket neighbourhood of Ballsbridge, ISD is Ireland’s only fully authorised IB primary school. It’s popular with international professionals who work in the embassy district or tech hubs like Grand Canal Dock. The school focuses on nurturing inquiry, cultural understanding, and multilingual skills perfect for globally-minded families.
Living in areas like Ballsbridge, Donnybrook or Blackrock gives families access to top schools, lush parks, and reliable public transport. With FindQo.ie, you can easily discover properties in these neighbourhoods that match your lifestyle and budget.
Cork: Quality Education in a Family-Friendly City
Often chosen for its slower pace and excellent quality of life, Cork is a rising star among expat families. It offers a blend of cultural richness and affordability, along with exceptional international education options.
Cork Educate Together Secondary School
Though not a traditional international school, this progressive school has an inclusive ethos and is known for welcoming families from all backgrounds. It’s an ideal option for expats seeking a modern educational approach.
Griffith College Cork
For older students, Griffith College offers globally recognised degree programmes and is particularly popular with expat teenagers preparing for university life in Ireland or abroad.
Douglas, Rochestown, and Blackrock (Cork) are popular residential areas among international families. Each offers green spaces, friendly communities, and good access to schools and city life. Explore properties in Cork using FindQo.ie’s smart filters and location-based search.
Limerick: Affordable Living with Global Options
Limerick may not be the first city that comes to mind, but it has a growing international population and education sector. It’s especially attractive to professionals working in tech, medical, and academic industries.
Villiers School
Founded in 1821, Villiers School is a co-educational boarding and day school that recently introduced the IB diploma programme. Set on a spacious campus along the Shannon River, it attracts both local and international students.
The Castletroy and Annacotty neighbourhoods are popular with professionals working at the University of Limerick and multinational companies. They offer a peaceful yet connected lifestyle perfect for raising children while enjoying the best of Irish life.
Galway: A Cultural Hub with Global Reach
Known for its artsy vibe and stunning Atlantic coast, Galway is a wonderful place for families who value culture, community, and scenic beauty.
Galway Educate Together Secondary School
Though still new, this school has earned a reputation for diversity, innovation, and openness. It may not be labelled “international,” but it embraces global citizenship and modern teaching methods.
Neighbourhoods like Salthill, Knocknacarra, and Oranmore offer great homes for families. These areas are safe, well-connected, and just minutes from both schools and the seafront. Find your ideal home in Galway today on FindQo.ie.
What to Look for When Choosing an International School
When selecting an international school in Ireland, it’s essential to consider more than just rankings. Look for curriculum compatibility (especially if your children will transfer back or continue education abroad), language support, extracurricular offerings, and pastoral care.
It’s also smart to explore nearby communities, commute times, and access to facilities such as parks, shops, and healthcare. This is where FindQo.ie makes your search easier by linking educational hubs with the most liveable areas around them.
Education Meets Lifestyle
Choosing the right school doesn’t need to be stressful. Ireland offers a strong mix of international schools and inclusive mainstream options that make settling in much easier for expat families. By aligning your property search with top-rated schools, you’re not just investing in a home you’re investing in your family’s future.
At FindQo.ie, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re moving to Dublin, Cork, Limerick or Galway, we make it easy to explore homes near top schools with powerful tools and friendly support.
