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The British International School Ho Chi Minh City (BIS HCMC) has once again secured the highest possible accolade — Outstanding in Every Category — following its November 2025 British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection, conducted by Penta International on behalf of the UK Government.
Recognised by the UK Department for Education and aligned with standards applied to leading independent schools in England, this outcome confirms more than ten consecutive years of sustained excellence. Maintaining the top distinction across five inspection cycles places BIS HCMC among a select group of British international schools who are globally able to demonstrate consistent, independently verified quality over time.
For families, this provides clear assurance: BIS HCMC delivers exceptional academic standards, high-quality teaching and leadership, and a breadth of enrichment and wellbeing provision that ensures students thrive both academically and socially — meeting and exceeding expectations of British education worldwide.
The British Schools Overseas framework enables British curriculum schools worldwide to be inspected against standards aligned with those in England. Inspections take place every three years to ensure standards are consistently maintained.
Our 2025 inspection spanned three days across all three campuses with a team of nine inspectors undertaking:
This was BIS HCMC’s fifth BSO inspection since 2013 — and the fourth consecutive time the school has achieved the highest judgement in every category.
Inspectors described BIS HCMC as:
“A well-led, vibrant international community where a true sense of belonging, trust and excellent relationships provide the optimum conditions for students to thrive academically and develop the personal, social and cultural skills needed for the next stages of their lives.”
This independent judgement reflects not only academic strength, but the culture of ambition, care and consistency that defines BIS HCMC.
Sustained excellence of this kind does not happen by chance. It reflects strong governance, leadership continuity and a deeply embedded culture of professional commitment — upheld by successive Principals, senior leaders and by the many dedicated teachers and staff whose expertise and stability underpin the school’s success.
Since our first BSO inspection in 2013, BIS HCMC has been guided by successive Principals — including Shaun Williams, Anthony Rowlands and now Simon Higham — each building on a shared vision of academic ambition, student wellbeing and continuous improvement. Achieving Outstanding outcomes across multiple inspection cycles under different leaders demonstrates that excellence at BIS HCMC is institutional.
While newly appointed as Principal, Simon Higham’s connection to BIS HCMC spans more than a decade. He was part of the leadership team during the school’s first BSO inspection in 2013 and later led An Phu Primary through subsequent inspection success. His return to lead the whole school reflects continuity, long-term commitment and a deep understanding of the school’s culture and standards.
“This latest BSO report celebrates the strength of our academic provision and the depth of care within our community. We are ambitious for every student and committed to ensuring they are supported, challenged and inspired at every stage of their journey. Sustaining this standard over time is a testament to the professionalism of our staff and the partnership we share with our families.”
Built over 28 years, this foundation of stability, expertise and shared purpose continues to shape the experience of every student who joins BIS HCMC.
Academic outcomes exceed British and international benchmarks, but inspectors highlighted that achievement extends well beyond examination results. They described a BIS student as:
“Confident, articulate, hard-working and proud of their school… caring, socially skilled self-starters who take pride in their work.”
Across all age groups, students demonstrated respect, empathy, collaboration and a strong sense of community — reflecting a holistic approach to education.
The report praised students’ “self-awareness, empathy and leadership” and their contributions to local and global communities. Relationships throughout the school were described as “characterised by mutual respect and curiosity,” reinforcing the inclusive and internationally minded culture at BIS HCMC.
Inspectors noted that students feel safe and well cared for, describing an “exceptionally strong culture relating to the welfare, health and safety of students” alongside an “exemplary emphasis on student wellbeing.” This culture of care provides the foundation for sustained academic excellence.
Leadership was identified as a defining strength. Inspectors observed that staff morale is high, reflecting a collaborative culture fostered by leaders who value wellbeing. Leadership across the school was described as:
“Inspirational at all levels, grounded in a deep moral purpose and a steadfast commitment to providing a holistic and enriching education for every child.”
Sustained excellence over more than a decade reflects stability, clarity of vision and disciplined continuous improvement.
The inspection acknowledged ongoing investment in facilities since 2022, including the Early Years climbing wall, secondary auditorium and theatre, the expanded Sixth Form Centre, and major infrastructure upgrades.
“The premises at BIS are of a high standard and offer a stimulating environment that supports and encourages high-quality learning.” — BSO Report 2025
Facilities were recognised not simply for their quality, but for how effectively they enhance learning.
In concluding their visit, inspectors stated:
“Students feel safe, well cared for, and proud of their learning and school. The school’s commitment to continuous improvement, high standards, and holistic development ensures students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to succeed in a constantly changing world.”
Maintaining the highest inspection judgement for over a decade reflects expertise, stability and a culture of continuous improvement. This recognition affirms the strength of our teaching, leadership and community partnership — and our commitment to ensuring every student thrives.
At BIS HCMC, Outstanding is not a milestone. It is the standard.
Read the full 2025 BSO Report here.