Global Citizens in the Making: Understanding Third Culture Kids

At The British International School Abu Dhabi, we celebrate the unique experiences of students growing up in an international community and help them develop the skills, confidence and perspective needed to thrive in a connected world.

For many children in international schools, home is more than one place.

They may have been born in one country, hold a passport from another, and live in a third. Their friends come from all over the world, and their experiences shape a unique global perspective. These children are often referred to as Third Culture Kids (TCKs), a term used to describe young people who spend a significant part of their formative years outside their parents' culture.

At BIS Abu Dhabi, this experience is part of everyday life. With more than 95 nationalities represented across our school community, students learn alongside peers from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and perspectives.

Growing Up Between Cultures

Growing up internationally offers children opportunities that few previous generations experienced. TCKs often develop a natural curiosity about the world, an appreciation for different perspectives and the ability to build friendships across cultures.

Many are bilingual or multilingual and become comfortable adapting to new environments and experiences. Alongside these strengths, growing up between cultures can sometimes bring challenges, particularly during periods of transition or when answering the question, "Where is home?"

At BIS Abu Dhabi, we recognise these experiences and provide an environment where every student feels known, valued and supported. Our inclusive curriculum, strong pastoral care and welcoming community help students develop a sense of identity and belonging while embracing the diversity of the world around them.

Our annual Community Day and Language Day also give students opportunities to celebrate their cultural heritage, share their languages and traditions, and learn from one another. These events encourage children to take pride in their identities and build meaningful connections with their peers. For TCKs, they are also a reminder that home is not always one place, but can be found in the connections they make, the cultures they share and the community they belong to.

Preparing Students for Global Citizenship

Schools play a crucial role in preparing informed, responsible citizens. At BIS Abu Dhabi, we equip students with the skills, knowledge and cultural understanding needed to thrive in a global society.

Through Nord Anglia's Global Campus, our students collaborate with peers around the world, gaining new perspectives and meaningful global connections. These experiences encourage students to think beyond their immediate surroundings and engage with the wider world.

We believe culture is about much more than food, festivals and traditions. It also encompasses values, beliefs and perspectives that shape how we see the world. By encouraging students to explore both similarities and differences between cultures, we help them develop respect, empathy and an appreciation for diverse viewpoints.

Beyond the classroom, House events, leadership opportunities and social impact initiatives help students develop teamwork, responsibility and a sense of purpose. In doing so, they learn that they can make a positive contribution to both local and global communities.

Skills for a Global Future

The ability to work effectively with people from different backgrounds is becoming increasingly important. Growing up in an international environment helps students develop qualities such as adaptability, collaboration, cultural awareness and resilience.

By learning and working alongside classmates from around the world, students gain the confidence to communicate across cultures, consider different viewpoints and approach challenges with an open mind.

Global Citizens in the Making

Growing up between cultures gives young people a unique perspective on the world. They learn to embrace diversity, build meaningful connections and navigate change with confidence.

At BIS Abu Dhabi, we celebrate these experiences and support students to become compassionate, internationally minded young people. Whether their future takes them to universities, careers or communities across the globe, they leave with the skills and outlook needed to thrive and make a positive impact in an interconnected world.