It’s common to find considerably high international school fees in many metro cities. However, the benefits are also more tangible in these bustling areas. From gaining invaluable skills to building a strong network, there are many reasons why international schools focus on extracurricular activities for their students. This article will uncover how and why extracurricular activities are essential.

What are Extracurricular Activities?

These are activities that fall outside of the regular curriculum. This can include sports, clubs, music lessons, volunteering, and much more. While most of these activities take place outside of school hours, some may be offered during the school day as an enrichment activity.

Benefits of Extracurricular Activities

There are several benefits to letting children indulge in extracurricular activities. These activities can help them in all areas of life, from academic to social to emotional. Some of the fundamental benefits of extracurricular activities include:

• Improved academic performance: Studies point out that children who participate in extracurricular activities have better grades and are more likely to attend college.

• Higher self-esteem: Children involved in activities feel good about themselves and their abilities. This can lead to improved social skills and increased confidence.

• Reduced stress: Participating in activities can be an excellent way for children to relieve academic stress. It is also a healthy outlet for any frustration they may be feeling.

• Sense of belonging: When children are involved in activities, they often experience a sense of community and belonging. This can significantly benefit children who don’t feel like they fit in at school.

• Fun: Let’s remember that extracurricular activities are supposed to be fun! They offer a chance for children to explore new interests and try new things.

• Improved physical health: Many activities, such as sports and dance, require physical activity. This can lead to improved fitness and overall health.

• Improved cognitive ability: Extracurricular activities such as chess and debating can improve cognitive skills. This can lead to better grades and enhanced problem-solving abilities.

• Improved social skills: It is a well-known fact that children who are enrolled in international schools have access to a world-class education. However, these institutions also provide students opportunities to develop social skills through extensive extracurricular activities.

Why do International Schools inculcate Extracurricular Activities in their Curriculum?

International schools help kids become more well-rounded by offering extracurricular activities. These can range from sports teams to clubs and organizations focused on different hobbies or interests.

Participation in these activities gives children a chance to interact with their peers positively and learn how to cooperate and work together towards a common goal. In addition, there are many reasons to encourage children to get involved in extracurricular activities. These activities allow children to explore new interests, make friends, and learn valuable life skills.

With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why these activities are crucial for kids. International school fees may be higher, but the benefits of extracurricular activities they offer are worth investing in.

Should Extracurricular Activities be included in Secondary School Education?

Students indulging in wholesome extracurricular activities and attending IB schools often pay higher international school fees than regular secondary school students. While the IB program is rigorous and challenging, many students feel it rewarding.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is a demanding pre-university course of study available at select schools worldwide. It is designed to encourage critical thinking, independent learning, and give students a competitive edge when applying to universities.

Conclusion 

Should extracurricular activities be included in secondary school education? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question.

On the one hand, extracurricular activities provide students with essential life skills and experiences they might not get from academic subjects alone. But conversely, these activities can also add to the already high cost of education. So ultimately, whether or not to pay international school fees depends on what you prioritize for your child.