English Language in Kuwait’s Educational System

The present study investigates the role of the English language in the educational system of Kuwait. Specifically, it explores the views of parents regarding the choice of their children’s education by focusing on the differences between school types, including Arabic-language public schools, Arabic-English bilingual schools, and private English-medium schools. It discusses such characteristics as affordability, quality of education, linguistic development, and the general requirements for education in a second language. The data collection includes a survey of Kuwaiti parents (N=77) and semi-structured interviews (N=6). Following the Bernstein model, the study examines the parental motivation behind school selection. The results show that English language proficiency is regarded as an important educational outcome regardless of the school type. Public schools are typically chosen for convenience, while bilingual and English-medium schools are associated with quality education, better English skills, and opportunities for study abroad. The results reveal that parents would change the type of education for their children if they could find a more suitable one. The study concludes by recommending a balanced-bilingual approach where Arabic continues to develop alongside English to strengthen the Arabic heritage while giving young Kuwaitis English skills valued in a global economy.