Pinewood American International School

"Pinewood American International School is a private international school located in Thessaloniki, Greece, offering a rigorous, English-language education to students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12."

Founded in 1999, Pinewood has established itself as a cornerstone of the international education community in northern Greece, serving the children of expatriate families, relocating professionals, and local families seeking an internationally recognized academic pathway. The school's curriculum blends the strengths of the American educational tradition with the globally respected International Baccalaureate framework. Pinewood offers all three IB programmes: the Primary Years Programme for younger students, the Middle Years Programme for those in the intermediate grades, and the prestigious IB Diploma Programme for students in the upper secondary years. This seamless continuum means that families who enroll their children early can follow a coherent, philosophically consistent academic journey all the way through to university preparation, without the disruption of transitioning between different curricular frameworks. As a U. S. State Department assisted school, Pinewood holds a particularly meaningful place for American diplomatic and government families stationed in the region. This designation reflects the school's alignment with American educational standards and its role in supporting the broader community of U. S. citizens living abroad, while also welcoming students of many other nationalities who seek a high-quality, English-medium education. Instruction at Pinewood is conducted entirely in English, making it a natural choice for international families whose children need to maintain or develop strong English-language proficiency. This English-first environment also prepares students well for university study in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other English-speaking countries around the world, while the IB Diploma in particular opens doors to institutions globally. Thessaloniki itself provides a compelling backdrop for an international school experience. Greece's second-largest city is a vibrant, historically rich metropolis with a lively cultural scene, a warm Mediterranean climate, and a welcoming local community. For families relocating from abroad, Thessaloniki offers a high quality of life, and Pinewood serves as an important anchor within the city's international community, bringing together families from diverse national and professional backgrounds. What distinguishes Pinewood is the combination of its dual American and IB identity, its comprehensive grade span from early childhood through secondary school, and its long-standing commitment to serving mobile, internationally minded families. For parents evaluating schools in the Thessaloniki area, Pinewood represents a stable, accredited option where children can receive an education that travels well — one that will be recognized and respected whether the family's next destination is Athens, Washington, London, or beyond. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to visit the school's website at www. pinewood. gr or contact the admissions office directly.