Going global: how an international school education prepares students for the world stage

Studying at the British International School of Boston (BISB) is a passport to the world.

Our internationally recognized academic programs lead to qualifications prized by the world’s top universities and colleges. The global education we offer stretches far beyond the curriculum, too, through life-changing experiences that foster global citizenship and cultural understanding, and which spark passions and talents.

In this blog, we share the benefits of studying at an international school – and explain how BISB’s global education prepares students for life in a globalized world.

Why choose an international school?

Being prepared for a global future is more important than ever before.

As society, further and higher education, and careers expand across countries and continents – and the world becomes increasingly globalized – the ability to navigate different cultures, languages, and opportunities is crucial.

International schools, like BISB, develop the sorts of global competencies students need to succeed in today’s world. Through the curriculum, our diverse environment, and access to one-of-a-kind opportunities, we equip our young people with the skills, values, and knowledge to thrive in a globalized future.

How does an international school education prepare students for global success?

From unique international opportunities to renowned academic programs, the global education we offer is designed for the future.

So, how do we prepare our students for success – and empower them to become global citizens?

We lay strong academic foundations

Our academic curriculum is broad and diverse, inspiring students to explore different fields of study and become well-rounded global citizens.

Our students follow the English National Curriculum from Preschool through Middle School, before studying for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in Sixth Form. Both curriculum programs are academically rigorous and respected globally, providing learners with a competitive edge when it comes to applying to universities and jobs worldwide. Our curricula are adapted to our local and international context, too.

We raise awareness of diverse cultures and perspectives

Studying at BISB introduces our students to people and perspectives from around the world.

Our children learn alongside peers and teachers from different cultural backgrounds, which develops their understanding and appreciation of other traditions, beliefs, and customs. This fosters open-mindedness and adaptability, crucial traits for future success.

By learning to navigate cultural differences from a young age, students also become more effective communicators and collaborators, particularly in multicultural environments.

We increase our students’ global awareness

We work hard to develop our students’ sense of international awareness. Our IB Diploma, for example, is a truly global educational curriculum, which is purposely designed to nurture global citizenship and broaden perspectives.

We also organize overseas trips, like our service expedition to Tanzania, and collaborate with schools across the Nord Anglia Education family. These experiences beyond the classroom connect our students to different people, cultures, and communities.

Our collaboration with UNICEF, meanwhile, sees students explore issues like climate change, economic inequality, and social justice. This nurtures the development of future leaders and purposeful changemakers.

We help our learners develop lifelong skills

Both in and beyond our curriculum, we cultivate an environment that values inquiry, creativity, and problem-solving. We encourage students to explore their interests, take ownership of learning, and engage in independent research.

We challenge students to think beyond the textbook, too. Learners ask questions, seek new information, and challenge assumptions. This approach fosters intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of learning, essential both for success at college and in an ever-evolving global landscape.

We encourage collaboration

We emphasize the importance of teamwork and collaboration, encouraging our students to work together across cultural and linguistic boundaries. This teaches them to communicate effectively, manage diverse perspectives, and solve problems as a team.

Collaboration happens everywhere at our international school, including through group projects, at extra-curricular clubs, and through international experiences, like Model UN debates, sports competitions, and activities on our Global Campus digital learning platform.

These experiences are a great way for learners to hone the attributes they need for degree courses and global careers, where teamwork and the ability to work across cultures are essential.

We instill strong values

Our values are at the heart of the global education we provide.

We’re committed to character development and instil a sense of responsibility and ethical awareness in our students. We do this through our collaboration with UNICEF, through local and

international social responsibility projects, and by modelling the attitudes we want to see. This empowers our young people to grow into empathetic and purposeful individuals, open to the world.

Set for success on the international stage

Every aspect of the global education we offer at BISB is designed to set our students up for success – whether it’s here in the US or overseas.

Our holistic international school approach, which includes globally recognized academics and life-changing learning opportunities, develops lifelong skills that translate to settings around the world. By nurturing diverse perspectives, encouraging collaboration, and instilling strong values, too, our students have the tools to thrive at college and in global careers, and to contribute meaningfully to our society.

To find out more about the global education we offer at the British International School of Boston, please get in touch with: admissions@bisboston.org.