Moving to Brussels - schools near Woluwe-St-Pierre

[frazzlenz]

Hi there, I am a New Zealander about to move to Brussels in June with my partner and our three sons. We will be living in Woluwe-St-Pierre and will be sending the boys to local schools. They have started French lessons but we know the first few months will be difficult for them all. I have heard from Stockel school that they can take all 3 boys. I'm waiting to hear back from Joli-Bois and a couple of others.

I was just wondering if anyone here lives in brussels and knows anything about the local schools. Any advice would be great

Thanks

[RuthChan]

Hi Frazzlenz

I'm afraid I can't comment on the local schools around Woluwe-St-Pierre, but there are a few other Brussels residents on MN who might be able to help.

I just thought I'd say hi and good luck in your move over here.
I'm in Waterloo, just south of Brussels and not so far from where you'll be.
If you need any information about other things, just let us know!!

[daisydotandgertie]

I'd go for Stockel - no question. It's a really, really lovely area.

[frazzlenz]

Thanks for the replies The company has arranged a house for us in Woluwe-St-Pierre so we'll definitely be living there. Its right by the tram that goes to Stockel I think. Would it be much of a hassle to travel to Stockel from Woluwe-St-Pierre each day? Or would it be a lot easier to get a school closer to home. Mater Dei is full, I think that was one of the closest.

RuthChan, any and all advice appreciated!! I'd love to hear first hand what people think of brussels and the whole relocation process.

[RuthChan]

One of the most useful sources of information, support and friends for newcomers to Brussels is the BCT (the Brussels Childbirth Trust).
It's an organisation for English speaking foreigners and their families in Belgium.
By going to their coffee mornings, play groups and other events both you and your sons will be able to make friends with ease. It's well worth the joining fee.
Take a look at their site here:

www.bctbelgium.com/

[scaryteacher]

Hi Frazz,

Brussels is great - I live in Tervuren, and have been here since 2006. It's a great place to live; nice lifestyle and there is everything you need here.

Don't know much about the local schools as my lad attends the British school.

[MadAboutTrifle]

My son goes to Don Bosco secondary (which also has primary section) which is very good. It's in the next commune (Woluwe St Lambert) though, but depending where you will be living in WSP, maybe just a walk away! I can't remember other local schools apart from Mater Dei, I think there's one called (La) Providence. Try the website for the commune : www.woluwe1150.irisnet.be.

[Portofino]

My neighbour's dcs go to Stockel. They are very happy with it. They are French expats though. My dd goes to a french speaking school in Evere. Personally I have been very impressed with the standards and activities.

Brussels is lovely and very family friendly I think. 2nd the suggestion of the BCT. They have a local schools network. And there are lots of us lovely MNetters about of course. (Belgo was going to send out a message suggesting a meet up sometime soon I think......)

[RuthChan]

Hi Portofino [waving emoticon]
Did you mention another meet up?
Most overdue, I think!!!

[Portofino]

Yes! At least the weather should be improving!