How to choose an English school for your family in the Philippines
Choosing a school for your child - or for your whole family - involves more than just looking at lesson counts. You need to balance safety, supervision, age ranges, and the type of environment that will help your child actually speak English. The Philippines has 23 English schools spread across Cebu, Mactan, Baguio, and Clark, but only a few are set up for young learners. The most family-friendly options include Boracay Coco English Academy and Paradise English (both offer junior camps by the beach), CIJ Academy (with dedicated junior and family programs on Mactan), and Genius English (relaxed and beginner-friendly). Below, we break down what each type offers and what you need to know before booking.
What age groups are accepted?
Most family-oriented schools welcome children from age 4 when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Some schools, like CIJ, offer programs specifically designed for families, where parents and children study at the same time but in separate classes. For teens, summer and holiday junior camps are common - these often group students aged 12-17 into a structured schedule of one-to-one lessons, group activities, and supervised outings.
If you have a child younger than 4, only a few schools have programs (some start kids at 3), but always check directly with the school as availability may vary seasonally. The key is to confirm that the school has staff trained to handle younger children and that the campus is secure, with gated access and 24/7 supervision.
Do parents need to study?
No, parents can either enroll in their own English classes or simply accompany their children. Many schools offer a 'family package' where the parent pays a lower rate for a room and meals, while the child takes lessons. This is a great way to turn your child's English education into a family holiday. If you want to study too, you can choose a program with 4-8 one-to-one lessons per day for adults, often at the same campus but with separate teachers.
What do typical family programs include?
All-inclusive packages in the Philippines generally cover tuition, a private room, and three meals per day, costing around $900-$1,400 per month per person - that's roughly $31 per day. For families, this can make it more affordable than similar programs in other countries. Some schools also include airport pick-up, laundry, and use of school facilities such as swimming pools or game rooms.
Junior programs often add supervised evening activities, weekend trips, and constant monitoring. Meals are usually buffet style with a mix of Filipino and Western dishes, which helps picky eaters find something they like.
Which schools are best for families and juniors?
- Boracay Coco English Academy (Boracay) - Famous for its beautiful beach location. Offers a 'family package' and junior camp during summer. Children can attend from age 4 with a parent. Lessons are one-to-one, and there's a strong focus on speaking confidence.
- Paradise English (Boracay) - Another beachfront school known for its relaxed atmosphere. They run junior camps (typically for ages 7-17) during school holidays. The school is small, so your child gets more personalized attention.
- CIJ Academy (Mactan) - This school has purpose-built facilities for juniors and families, including a separate building for younger students. They offer ESL, IELTS, and TOEIC courses for both children and adults. CIJ is one of the more structured options, with strict supervision and a range of activities.
- Genius English (Mactan) - If your child is a beginner, Genius English is a good choice - it's less intimidating and teachers are praised for their patience with young learners. They accept children from age 4 and also have family programs.
For a complete list of all our partner schools, see our best English schools in the Philippines guide.
Are there schools in Cebu City or Baguio that accept children?
Yes, but options are more limited than on Mactan. Some larger schools in Cebu City (like Cebu Blue Ocean or SMEAG) have junior departments, but they are not always open year-round. In Baguio, schools like HELP have a stricter academic focus, which may suit older teens (16+) but not younger children. For kids under 12, beach destinations like Boracay or Mactan are more common because they offer a more relaxing environment and easier access to family activities.
What about visas for children?
For language courses shorter than 59 days, students typically enter on a tourist visa. If you study longer, the school will arrange an SSP (Special Study Permit), which costs around $100-200. After about 59 days, you'll need an ACR I-Card, which is roughly $50-70. Children under 18 are usually included on their parent's visa application, but always confirm with the school. Importantly, you do not need a 9(f) student visa for language study - the SSP is sufficient.
How do costs compare to other countries?
Studying English in the Philippines is one of the most affordable options globally. In the US, UK, or Australia, you could easily spend $1,500 per week for a similar immersion program. In the Philippines, a full month with accommodation and meals is about the same cost. For families, the savings are even greater. If you're considering other destinations, check our cost guide for a detailed breakdown.
Is it worth choosing the Philippines for a family?
Yes, for many families the Philippines offers a unique mix of quality English education, low cost, and natural beauty. Kids get constant one-to-one interaction with native-level teachers (Filipino teachers are trained in American English), which accelerates learning. Plus, the experience of living in a tropical country with warm weather and friendly locals is memorable. However, you should weigh the pros and cons for your specific situation. Read our honest take in is studying English in the Philippines worth it to help you decide.
Practical tips for a smooth family stay
- Book at least 4 weeks to allow your child to adjust and make progress.
- Check if the school has a curfew and strict rules - some parents want this, others don't.
- Ask about the teacher-to-student ratio - more one-to-one lessons (up to 8 per day) mean faster progress.
- Ensure the school has health insurance arrangements or a nearby clinic.
- Travel during the dry season (November to April) for beach-friendly weather.
Comparing all these factors can be overwhelming. Schools are different, and the right fit depends on your child's age and your family's goals. That's where a free matching service helps - we've visited the campuses in person and can connect you to schools that meet your criteria. You pay the school's own price, and there's no mark-up. To get started, simply request a free, no-mark-up school match - we'll handle the details so you can focus on preparing for your adventure.
Ready to find the perfect school for your family? Get a free, no-mark-up school match now.