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For expats whose children are still pre-schoolers, there are numerous kindergartens and nursery schools in Budapest, especially in the 2nd and 12th districts. Preschool education is compulsory in Hungary from the age of three until students start primary school at age six.
Below is a list of international kindergartens in Budapest that are popular with expat parents.
Pre-schools and kindergartens in Budapest
Apple Tree Kindergarten
As one of Budapest's most highly rated preschools, Apple Tree Kindergarten provides a high-quality English language programme. The school employs native English-speaking educators and Hungarian teachers while drawing pedagogical approaches from the US, UK, and Hungarian education systems to help prepare your children for further schooling in any of these systems.
Gender: Co-educational
Teaching language: English
Ages: 16 months to 6 years
Website: www.appletree-kindergarten.hu
The English Garden
Established in 2008, The English Garden is a nursery and preschool that offers British-style early childhood education. The school uses English as the language of instruction. A recognised Cambridge International School, The English Garden is situated on a large campus surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Gender: Co-educational
Teaching language: English
Ages: 4 months to 6 years
Website: www.englishgarden.hu
Happy Kids Kindergarten
Happy Kids Kindergarten has been serving local and expat families for nearly 25 years. The school boasts a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio, with a large playground and over 10 extracurricular activities to boot. Happy Kids Kindergarten is home to more than 20 nationalities and provides an English language education.
Gender: Co-educational
Teaching language: English
Ages: 18 months to 7 years
Website: www.happykids.hu
Plum Pudding Kindergarten
Plum Pudding Kindergarten is located on a quiet, tree-lined street in District 2. The school offers an English language education and a multicultural learning environment, allowing children to become global citizens. As a play-based preschool, Plum Pudding Kindergarten emphasises small-group playful learning.
Gender: Co-educational
Teaching language: English
Ages: 9 months to 6 years
Website: www.plumpudding.hu
Under the Rainbow Pre-school and Kindergarten
Under the Rainbow Pre-school and Kindergarten combines nature-based learning and experience-driven education with a warm, family-like environment. The school provides various extracurricular activities, including swimming, movement development classes, and sports and art activities.
Gender: Co-educational
Teaching language: English
Ages: 14 months to 7 years
Website: www.undertherainbow.hu