How BIS Hanoi prepares students beyond academics

At BIS Hanoi, students don’t just aim for high grades — they aim higher. Whether that means gaining access to top global universities, preparing for a future career, or learning how to live independently, success at this international school in Hanoi goes far beyond the classroom. 

“We want them to be able to walk into any room in the world and hold their own,” says Lee Falconer, Head of Secondary. “Whether that’s in an interview, a seminar, or simply moving to a new city… it’s about preparing them for life.” 

Academic excellence with global outcomes 

As part of the Nord Anglia Education family, BIS Hanoi delivers a world-class academic experience grounded in the British curriculum. At the secondary level, students work toward IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma — with results that consistently place them among the top in Vietnam. 

“The results speak for themselves,” Lee says. “But more importantly, they’re a reflection of how students are supported, challenged, and encouraged to stretch themselves — both academically and personally.” 

Their IB diploma results in Vietnam reflect a culture of academic excellence and ambition — supported by a strong foundation in pastoral care and personal development. Recent graduates have gone on to study at prestigious institutions such as Stanford, University College London (UCL), and NYU, as well as top universities in Canada, the Netherlands, Korea, and beyond. 

University readiness, built on care 

At BIS Hanoi, university readiness is about more than just applications. Joe McKinney and Rachel Hahn, who lead the university and careers guidance programme, focus on helping students understand who they are — and who they want to become.

“We’re not just guiding students toward the right course or university,” explains Joe. “We’re working backwards — starting with their passions, the careers they’re drawn to, the skills they’ll need — and helping them build toward that future.” 

That means focusing on more than academics. Rachel, who also plays a key role in emotional support, often helps students navigate personal challenges as they weigh major decisions.

“Sometimes they’re struggling mentally and emotionally,” she says. “But I try to be there not just as a counsellor, but like a caring auntie — someone they can open up to, someone who tells them, ‘It’s all right.’” 

Together, they’ve transformed the school’s university guidance programme, introducing new approaches and personalised pathways. Their teamwork is part of what makes the support so impactful. 

“Joe has his strengths, and I have mine,” says Rachel. “We ask each other questions, we fill in each other’s gaps — and because of that, we can give students better guidance.”

Personalised support at every step 

At BIS Hanoi, student support is woven into every part of the academic journey. Teachers, form tutors, and university counsellors work closely with families to ensure students are known, supported, and encouraged to explore their full potential. 

“We know our students really well,” Lee says. “That means we can push them in the right way — not just to succeed academically, but to grow into young adults who are ready for the world.”