Brussels is home to a large international community, with over 180 nationalities represented. For English-speaking families moving to the city, finding suitable childcare and schools is often the top priority. The options range from publicly funded Dutch- or French-speaking schools to private international schools offering curricula from the UK, US, or International Baccalaureate. This guide covers the main pathways, costs, and practical steps to help you navigate the system. For a broader overview of settling in, see our complete guide to living in Brussels as an English speaker.

Overview of the Education System in Brussels

Belgium's education system is organised by language community. In Brussels, schools are either French-speaking (Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles) or Dutch-speaking (Vlaamse Gemeenschap). There are also a number of private international schools that follow other curricula. Education is compulsory from age 5, but most children start school at 2.5 years in école maternelle (nursery school).

  • Public schools: Free or very low cost, but instruction is in French or Dutch. Some offer immersion programmes in English or other languages.
  • Private international schools: Tuition fees range from €8,000 to €30,000 per year, with instruction in English and often other languages.
  • European Schools: Designed for children of EU staff, but places may be available to others. Instruction in the child's mother tongue (including English) with a multilingual curriculum.

Childcare and Daycare Options

For working parents, finding reliable childcare is essential. Brussels offers a mix of publicly subsidised crèches, private nurseries, and childminders (accueillantes).

Public Crèches

Subsidised by the French- or Dutch-speaking community, places are limited and waiting lists can be long (6–12 months). Fees are income-based, typically between €200 and €800 per month for full-time care. Registration is done through ONE (Office de la Naissance et de l'Enfance) for French-speaking crèches or Kind en Gezin for Dutch-speaking ones.

Private Nurseries

Private nurseries offer more flexibility and shorter waiting lists, but at higher cost. Full-time fees range from €800 to €1,500 per month. Many operate in English or are bilingual. Examples include Kids&Us (English immersion from 1 year), Bilingual Childcare Brussels, and Les Petits Princes.

Childminders (Accueillantes)

Registered childminders care for up to four children in their own home. Fees are regulated by ONE or Kind en Gezin, typically €2–€5 per hour. Language of care depends on the minder; English-speaking minders are rare but can be found via networks like Mums in Brussels or Brussels Childcare Network.

International Schools in Brussels

Brussels has a dense network of international schools. Below are the main English-language options.

British School of Brussels (BSB)

Located in Tervuren, about 10 km east of Brussels, BSB follows the English National Curriculum up to IGCSE and the IB Diploma. Tuition for 2024–2025 ranges from €18,000 (nursery) to €30,000 (secondary). The school has a strong reputation and a large campus with sports facilities.

International School of Brussels (ISB)

Founded in 1951, ISB is the oldest international school in the city. It offers the IB programme from nursery to grade 12. Located in Watermael-Boitsfort, the school has a diverse student body (over 60 nationalities). Annual fees: approximately €20,000–€32,000.

St. John's International School

Part of the worldwide network of Jesuit schools, St. John's is in Waterloo, about 15 km south of Brussels. It offers the IB Diploma and a US-style curriculum. Tuition is around €18,000–€28,000 per year.

European School of Brussels (EEB)

There are several European Schools in Brussels (Uccle, Ixelles, Laeken, and Woluwe). They follow the European Baccalaureate and are primarily for children of EU staff, but non-EU families can apply if places are available. Fees are lower than private schools: around €5,000–€7,000 per year for non-subsidised students. Instruction is in the child's language section (English, French, German, etc.).

Local Schools with English Programmes

Some public and private schools in Brussels offer bilingual or immersion programmes that include English.

French-Speaking Schools with English Immersion

Several French-speaking schools in Brussels offer immersion in English from the third year of nursery (age 4–5) or primary. Subjects are taught in English for up to 50% of the time. Examples include:

  • École Les Peupliers (Ixelles)
  • École du Parc (Saint-Gilles)
  • École Fondamentale Anneessens-Funck (Brussels city centre)

These schools are free (public) or low-cost (subsidised private). Admission is based on residence and sometimes a lottery. For more on living in these areas, see our guides on Ixelles/Flagey and Saint-Gilles.

Dutch-Speaking Schools with English Programmes

Dutch-speaking schools (Gemeenschapsonderwijs or GO!) also offer English in some contexts. The GO! International School Brussels in Oudergem offers a bilingual Dutch-English track following the Flemish curriculum. Fees are minimal (around €100 per year for materials).

How to Register: Step-by-Step

Registration procedures vary by school type, but generally follow these steps:

  1. Determine your language preference: Decide whether you want a French, Dutch, or English-language school.
  2. Check school zones: For public schools, priority is often given to families living in the school's postal code. Check the Inscriptions portal for French-speaking schools or Mijn Kinderopvang for Dutch-speaking ones.
  3. Submit applications early: For international schools, applications often open a year in advance. For public schools, registration typically occurs in February–March for the following September.
  4. Provide required documents: These usually include proof of residence, identity cards/passports, birth certificate, and previous school records (translated if necessary).
  5. Pay registration fees: For international schools, a non-refundable deposit (often €1,000–€2,000) is required to secure a place.

Costs and Financial Considerations

Education costs vary dramatically. Below is a summary of typical annual fees for 2024–2025:

  • Public French/Dutch school: €0–€500 (including lunch and aftercare)
  • Subsidised private school (immersion): €500–€3,000
  • European School (non-EU): €5,000–€7,000
  • International school (ISB, BSB, St. John's): €18,000–€32,000

Some employers (EU institutions, multinationals) offer education allowances. Also, check if you qualify for Belgian family benefits (allocations familiales) of about €100–€150 per child per month.

Practical Tips for English-Speaking Families

Here are some insights from long-term expats:

  • Start early: Waiting lists for both daycare and schools can be long. Apply as soon as you have a definite address.
  • Join local Facebook groups: Groups like Mums in Brussels, Brussels Expats, and Brussels Childcare Network are invaluable for recommendations and last-minute openings.
  • Consider location: Proximity to school affects your daily commute. Areas like Ixelles, Woluwe, and Uccle have many international schools. For a quieter area, see our guide on Schaerbeek's hidden gems.
  • Use public transport: Many schools are accessible by STIB buses, trams, or metro. Check our STIB guide for route planning.
  • Explore extracurriculars: English-language activities like sports, music, and scouting are available. The British & Commonwealth Women's Association runs a popular Saturday club.

Conclusion

Brussels offers a wide range of childcare and schooling options for English speakers, from free public schools with immersion to high-end international schools. The key is to start early, understand the language requirements, and choose a school that fits your child's needs and your budget. With careful planning, your family can thrive in this multicultural city.

Related articles

  • The Complete Guide to Living in Brussels as an English Speaker
  • Ixelles/Flagey Living
  • Saint-Gilles Vibe
  • Renting in Brussels
  • STIB: Metro, Tram, Bus