Is Lighthouse an “international school”?

Author: Susanna Dalais, Director of Board, Lighthouse Education Ltd.

At Lighthouse, we are often asked, “Are you an international school?” The simple answer is: no, we are not. We are proud to be a multicultural school that embraces diversity, yet our core focus remains on providing an exceptional education for Mauritian students, with a welcoming environment that attracts international families.

Many people perceive us as an international school due to the globally recognised nature of our educational approach and curriculum. This is certainly one of the reasons why families from all around the world choose Lighthouse. Our curriculum aligns with international standards, making it both familiar and relevant to families coming from different countries. It sets us apart, offering a high-quality, internationally-minded education while firmly staying rooted in our Mauritian identity. In terms of diversity, Lighthouse stands as a true representation of the global community. With 71% of our students being Mauritian and 29% expatriate, we have a rich mix of cultures and backgrounds, with students representing 23 nationalities. 

This blend of local and international students creates a dynamic and enriching learning environment where students learn not only from their teachers but also from one another. Our multicultural student body adds to the vibrancy of our school, allowing us to offer a global perspective within a Mauritian context. Our faculty diversity is equally impressive. With teachers from Mauritius, Australia, Kenya, South Africa, the UK, the US, Zimbabwe, Germany, the Netherlands, and El Salvador, our staff bring a wealth of international experience and cultural perspectives to the classroom. This international outlook enhances the educational experience and equips our students with the skills and mindset they need to thrive in a globally connected world.

Lighthouse is also proud to be a candidate for ACSI/MSA accreditation, a globally recognised accreditation body for American and international schools. We are the only school in Mauritius seeking this prestigious accreditation, which further highlights our commitment to providing an internationally-minded education. Additionally, our dedication to sustainability has been recognised by our status as a finalist for the Zayed Sustainability Prize in 2022 and 2023. We were also the first private school in Mauritius to achieve Green Flag status under the UN Green Schools programme, which reflects our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and global citizenship.

While we embrace a diverse, international environment, one of our core values is “Citizenship.” We honour our Mauritian roots and are committed to making a positive impact in Mauritius. That said, it is worth mentioning that the first four classes of Lighthouse graduates are now represented in 15 countries around the world, excluding Mauritius. This global reach is a testament to the quality of education and the impact that our graduates are having in the world.

In conclusion, while often referred to as an international school, Lighthouse embraces its identity as a multicultural school, offering a global perspective while staying rooted in our Mauritian context, preparing students to thrive locally and internationally and make a meaningful impact wherever they go.