Finding the ideal school for children can feel like an overwhelming challenge for parents. Now that its time to enrol (or change schools) here a pick of five good ones. 

Zan Coastal Academy: Situated just 500 metres from Fumba Town, Zan Coastal Academy is a properly authorised Cambridge international school teaching both Tanzanian (NECTA) and international curricula from primary to A level, so students have the choice. Founding principal Harith Omar Ally describes Cambridge education as a “clear and flexible learning pathway”. Outdoor learning is part of it. Several Fumba Town kids have won accolades at the neighbourhood school. zaca.ac.tz 

International School of Zanzibar (ISZ): The undisputed champion of schools in Zanzibar has a solid 30-year experience offering world-class education, set in a beautiful compound with a school pool in Mbweni. With a claim of warming-up kids towards a “global perspective” from pre-Kindergarten through 13 school years, ISZ delivers comprehensive education and networks for a life-time. isz.co.tz 

FEZA School: Conveniently located just eight kilometres from Fumba Town, the school is attended by local and international kids stirring them to “creative thinking and moral responsibility”. It accepts students at the beginning of the academic year and throughout the year, based on space availability. “Well-mannered kids make a positive difference in the world”, is one of the credos. fezaschools.org 

Leera Schools: Located in Mbweni, 14.5 kilometres from Fumba Town, Leera School was founded by three Zanzibari women from diverse backgrounds describing it as a “safe, productive, and engaging space” where learners are encouraged to reach their full potential up to O level. Using “contemporary teaching methodology” is a welcome innovative approach for Zanzibar. leeraschool.ac.tz 

South East Coast International School: Joyful learning is the key to the warm-hearted coastal school which has been and still is growing with its pupils on the east coast in Jambiani. Being welcoming and diverse, kids get a well-rounded education here from nursery to lower secondary. Empathy and critical thinking are encouraged, the guidelines say. The school uses the British national curriculum. seczanzibar.com