Mar Qardakh School

"Mar Qardakh School is a private international school located in Khalifan, Iraq, offering a rigorous, internationally recognized education to students in the region."

The school's adoption of the International Baccalaureate framework signals a clear commitment to developing curious, principled, and globally minded learners — a mission that resonates strongly with expatriate families and internationally oriented local families alike who are seeking world-class schooling outside of major urban centers. Founded in 2014, Mar Qardakh School is a relatively young institution, yet its embrace of the IB curriculum from an early stage reflects an ambition to deliver structured, inquiry-based education grounded in internationally accepted standards. The school offers two IB programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Middle Years Programme (MYP). The PYP provides younger students with a transdisciplinary framework that nurtures intellectual curiosity, creativity, and a sense of personal and social responsibility. As students progress, the MYP builds on that foundation by encouraging them to make meaningful connections between academic disciplines and the world around them, developing the critical thinking and communication skills that are central to the IB philosophy. English serves as the language of instruction at Mar Qardakh School, making it an accessible option for expatriate families relocating to the Khalifan area, including professionals working in Iraq's energy sector or with international organizations operating in the Kurdistan Region. For families moving from English-speaking countries or from international schools elsewhere in the world, the continuity of an English-medium, IB-based education can ease what is often a challenging transition for children. Khalifan is a district nestled in the mountainous landscape of the Erbil Governorate in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, known for its striking natural scenery and relatively calm environment compared to other parts of the country. For families considering a posting or relocation to this part of northern Iraq, the presence of a private international school offering globally recognized curricula is a meaningful consideration. The setting offers a quieter, more community-oriented atmosphere than a large metropolitan area, and Mar Qardakh School appears to reflect that character — a school where families can expect a more intimate educational environment. What distinguishes Mar Qardakh School is the combination of its location and its academic ambition. Delivering IB programming in a smaller, regional setting in northern Iraq is no small undertaking, and the school's choice to align with both the PYP and MYP frameworks demonstrates a long-term investment in providing students with an education that travels well — one whose credentials are recognized by schools and universities around the world. For expat families who may move on after a few years, or for local families with aspirations for their children's international futures, that portability and academic credibility carry real weight. Families interested in learning more about admissions, the campus, and the school community are encouraged to visit the school's website at marqardakh. com for the most current information.