At this time of year, many Bermuda families begin thinking seriously about what comes next for their children. For some, that means looking overseas, as boarding schools from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom visit the island and share what they have to offer.

As head teachers of Bermuda’s independent schools, we believe families should explore their options for choosing a school carefully. Do the research and ask the right questions but know that there is a compelling case for looking closely at the breadth and quality of education available here at home. Distance should not be confused with opportunity.

Bermuda’s independent schools offer an exceptional range of educational experiences and internationally recognised pathways, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), A-Levels, BTEC, I/GCSEs, Montessori education, Canadian curricula and US high school diplomas. Our schools are also accredited by respected international bodies.

This gives Bermuda families real choice and it matters because there is no single educational path that is right for every child. Each child has different strengths, interests and ambitions. The right environment for one will not necessarily be the right one for another. As educators, we know the most important question is not simply where a child goes to school. It is whether that school provides the right environment for that individual child to be challenged, supported and able to thrive.

Bermuda’s size can be a real strength in that regard. Our students have access to teachers who know them well. They can take on meaningful leadership roles, pursue a large variety of sports, music and the arts, contribute through service, and gain practical experience through local internships and work opportunities. These are experiences that build confidence, independence and a sense of belonging, while remaining connected to family, friends and the wider community.

And being educated in Bermuda does not mean having a narrow view of the world. Far from it. Our students go on to universities around the world. Our previous collective research found that first-choice university acceptance rates matched those of boarding schools, while alumni reported feeling well prepared for university.

There are practical considerations too. Overseas education represents a significant financial commitment beyond tuition alone. That is part of the picture families will naturally consider alongside the academic opportunities, their child’s wellbeing and whether a school is the right fit.

Bermuda may be a small island, but there should be nothing small about the ambitions we have for our children. Our schools have different philosophies, programmes, cultures and approaches to learning and we see that as a strength. What unites us as heads of school is our belief in what Bermuda’s young people are capable of, and our responsibility to give them the education, opportunities and support they need to realise that potential.

So, to families considering their options, we encourage you to visit our schools, speak with our staff, and talk to our students and alumni. Ask about academic pathways, university destinations and the opportunities available both inside and outside the classroom.

See for yourself what a Bermuda education can offer your child. Because an exceptional education is not defined by how far a child travels to receive it. It is defined by how far that education enables them to go.

• Bermuda Independent Schools Heads Association represents the Bermuda Centre for Creative Learning, Bermuda High School for Girls, Bermuda Institute, Chatmore, Mount St Agnes Academy, Saltus Grammar School, Somersfield, Warwick Academy