SCHOOLS

Back to School!!

Trinidad and Tobago is considered one of the most educated countries in the World with a literacy rate of over 98%. The education system on the island mirrors the British education system and it is quite common for children to start Pre-School by the age of three. If you are moving with your children doing your research and planning ahead will minimize the disruption that can be created by an International Assignment and ensure that you maintain continuity of their Home Country education system. I have included listings of local schools from day-care all the way to high school. Starting this process prior to the move is essential as some school require enrollment months in advance. 

Tips to help children to cope with a move -  http://www.expatarrivals.com/article/tips-to-help-children-cope-with-moving-to-another-country

SCHOOLS	ADDRESS	CONTACT NUMBERS	EMAIL ADDRESS	CONTACT PERSON
International School of Port-of-Spain	#1 International Drive, Westmoorings	Tel: 1-868-633-4777, 1-868-632-4591-2 Fax: 1-868-632-4595	admissions@isps.edu.tt or jfungkeefung@isps.edu.tt http://www.isps.edu.tt/aboutus/shorthistory.htm	Jackie Fung Kee Fung Director of Admissions
Maple Leaf International School	Alyce Heights, Alyce Glen, Petit Valley	Tel: 1-868-632-9578 Fax: 1-868-633-3068	mlis@tstt.net.tt http://www.mapleleaf-school.com/	Janet Pomeroy Principal
St. Andrew’s School	# 16 Valleton Avenue, Maraval	Tel: 1-868-622-2630 Fax: 1-868-628-1857	standrewsschool@tstt.net.tt	Sandra Farinha Principal.
British Academy of Port-of-Spain		622-4285	http://britishacademy.edu.tt/ admin@britishacademy.edu.tt	Mrs. Mc Kenzie
Arbor Montessori	8 Hayes Street, St Clair	628-7944	arbor08@gmail.com http://www.arbortrinidad.com/	Mrs. Pounder
The Montessori Academy of Trinidad and Tobago	66 Long Circular Road, Maraval	622-1166/ 628-8175 or 335-5679		Mrs. Rahael
The London Early Learning Montessori Pre-School	n/a	627-1170	n/a	Mrs. Xavier
Happy Days	n/a	620-8219	n/a	Mrs. Bynoe
VALSCO Montessori	n/a	637-3024	n/a	Mrs. Thompson
Hands on Fun	n/a	312-3065	n/a	Michelle Govia

RELOCATION SERVICES

I need help…Someone with local knowledge of the housing market!!!

When considering moving to Trinidad and Tobago, using a relocation agency can make the process that much easier and can save you time and money. These destination services providers can assist with finding a home, provide assistance with enrolling kids in school, conducting tours of places of interest, opening a bank accounts and setting up utilities. Although not many agencies like these exist in Trinidad and Tobago there are a few on the island that you can contact:

• LARM (Latin American Relocation Management) – Agent : Cindy O’Connor (trinidad@larmgroup.com) 
• Housing Solutions Trinidad and Tobago Limited (HSTT) Agent: Terry-Ann Roach (terryannwilliams29@hotmail.com) 

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION

Where can I stay while I search for housing?

Once you arrive in country, you may require hotel accommodation for a few nights. Credit Cards are usually required for the reservation. Within the capital city of Port-of-Spain the hotels are:

·         Hilton Hotel and Conference Centre

·         Hyatt Regency

·         Courtyard Marriott

·         Carlton Savannah

If you require accommodation in the southern part of the island here is a list of the popular hotels:

·         Tradewinds Hotel

·         Cara Suits

·         Paria Suits Hotel

INTERNATIONAL SHIPMENT OF HOUSEHOLD GOODS

"How can I ship my furniture to Trinidad ?"

When relocating to Trinidad and Tobago, you and your family might explore shipping your personal items into the country. This should be done after your work permit has been approved as customs often requires a valid work permit to be presented before your shipment can be cleared. In some cases this is handled by the employing company but this varies depending on the firm and is subject to assignment policies. There may also be restrictions imposed by Trinidad Customs and Excise on shipment of specific items and your shipping company will advise you of these. Typically Items such as furniture and appliances are sent by sea while smaller items such as clothing can be sent via air freight. It is recommended that items such as jewellery or valuables are not left unattended during the packing and moving process as these should be kept secure and transported in your hand luggage.

I have included some companies below in Trinidad that can provide shipping services ahead of your arrival:

·         Henderson Shipping Service crate@tstt.net.tt

·         Laparkan - http://www.laparkan.com/

·         Navarros Shipping - http://www.navarros.com/nshpbrok.htm

IMMIGRATION

"What documentation do I need to work in Trinidad?"

All foreign nationals coming into Trinidad and Tobago to work are required to have a work permit which is issued by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. This is facilitated through the Ministry of National Security. Your family will be granted entry into Trinidad on the basis of your work permit. Spouses however are not permitted to work under the individual’s work permit.  You can submit a work permit application in person, or your application can be submitted on your behalf by:·         A company or institution based in Trinidad and Tobago that wishes to employ you.

·         An appointed attorney in Trinidad and Tobago.
·         An appointed company or institution based in Trinidad and Tobago acting on behalf of a foreign company.
 

There are a number of agencies in Trinidad that provide work permit services and work to assist you with gathering the required documents. I have included some options below:

·         Aegis Business Solutions http://www.aegistt.com/

·         LARM http://www.larmgroup.com/trinidadytobago.html

Additional Information can be found on the Ministry’s website: http://www.immigration.gov.tt/Services/Permits/WorkPermits.aspx 

WELCOME TO TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Welcome to Trinidad & Tobago

Welcome to my BLOG!!!!

I started this as a way to help families who have decided to move to Trinidad or thinking about moving to this beautiful island. Everything from finding suitable housing, schools, transportation or even the best food spots. Relocating to a new job, and moving your family can be very difficult but I hope my tips can make it a bit easier !!