Choosing a bilingual school in Dakar is an important decision for the whole family. Beyond reputation or proximity, the essential question is whether your child can learn, express themselves, and grow confidently there. This guide helps you organise questions before enrolling.
Start with your child’s needs
Age, first language, temperament, and daily habits matter. Toddlers have different needs from primary pupils. Ask how the team supports settling in, morning separations, rest, meals, and communication with parents.
Understand what bilingual means in daily life
A bilingual school is more than an added English lesson. Ask how French and English feature in activities, instructions, stories, songs, and projects. Children should use languages in lively situations suited to their level.
Observe the teaching approach and environment
A visit reveals more than a brochure. Look for orderly, accessible spaces appropriate to children’s ages. In Montessori, hands-on materials, guided choice, independence, and individual observation are important indicators. Ask how progress is monitored and particular needs supported.
Ask practical questions
Before deciding, check the calendar, hours, enrolment procedures, fees, activities, and communication channels. Ask what parents are expected to do at the start of the year so you can prepare a calm transition.
Take time to visit
A good visit gives you room to observe, ask questions, and decide whether the setting suits your child. Record impressions afterwards: the welcome, adult–child relationships, language use, and clarity of answers.
In Almadies, families can book a visit to BSA Schools to explore the bilingual Montessori environment and discuss a pathway suited to their child.
A simple decision grid for families
Avoid comparing schools solely on a general impression. Create four columns: your child’s well-being, languages, teaching approach, and practical considerations. After each visit, record one or two concrete observations in each. This supports a thoughtful decision tailored to your family.
Well-being and relationships with adults
Children learn more easily when they feel known and safe. Ask who follows their settling-in period, how important information is shared, and how school and family communicate. Answers should be precise but realistic: a good school does not promise an emotion-free transition; it explains how children are supported.
Languages, programme, and progress
Ask for examples: a reading activity, group gathering, science activity, or art project. These show how languages and learning connect. Ask how the school supports children joining mid-year or needing more time in a subject.
A checklist to take on a school visit
- Can my child use the spaces independently at their age?
- Are both languages heard and used naturally?
- Are rules, hours, and fees clearly explained?
- Does the team genuinely listen to our family’s questions?
