BEO 2026 Empowering Global Learners at NISC

By Pritesh Parekh

Secondary English Teacher

From late March to mid-April 2026, ten of our Grade 8 and Grade 9 students from Northbridge International School Cambodia (NISC) proudly represented the school at the British English Olympics (BEO), marking an exciting first participation for NISC in this prestigious international event. The BEO is a leading English Olympiad that combines academic excellence, bilingual learning, and global leadership, bringing together top schools from around the world.

This milestone reflects the strength of NISC’s exclusive global and local programmes, which provide students with opportunities to develop perspective, resilience, and leadership in ways not found elsewhere in Phnom Penh. Through experiences like BEO, students are empowered to step beyond the classroom and engage meaningfully with the world.

At its core, the BEO experience extends far beyond traditional academics. Throughout the programme, NISC students strengthened their critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities while building confidence in their English language proficiency. Through engaging activities such as public speaking, debate, and collaborative challenges, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new perspectives.

A defining feature of the British English Olympics is its focus on teamwork and real world communication. Our students worked alongside international peers, fostering meaningful cross-cultural collaboration and enhancing their ability to articulate ideas clearly and confidently. These experiences not only prepare students for success in a globalised world, but also reinforce the values of adaptability and resilience that are central to the NISC learning experience.

The global exposure gained during the event was equally impactful. By connecting with students from diverse cultural backgrounds, participants expanded their worldviews and developed a deeper sense of global citizenship. These are the kinds of transformative experiences that set NISC apart, equipping students with the mindset and skills to lead with confidence in an ever-changing world.

In recognition of their integrity, teamwork, and respect throughout the competition, our students proudly received the Fair Play Award, a testament to their character and the strong values embedded across the NISC community.

Reflecting on the journey, teacher Pritesh shared, “Watching the students step outside their comfort zones showed me how far they have come.” His words highlight the remarkable personal growth demonstrated by students as they embraced challenges with confidence and determination. Student Long also captured the emotional depth of the experience, saying, “BEO has been such an emotional rollercoaster. Throughout various challenges we connected, communicated, and laughed.”

The British English Olympics 2026 proved to be a truly transformative experience. Students returned to NISC with enhanced confidence, independence, and a stronger sense of themselves as globally minded learners. Their ability to collaborate, speak publicly, and think critically has been meaningfully strengthened.

We are incredibly proud of our students’ achievements and their role in representing NISC internationally for the first time. As they continue their journeys, experiences like the BEO will remain a powerful foundation, shaping future leaders equipped with the perspective, resilience, and ambition to thrive anywhere in the world.