parent essentials

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We’re incredibly proud of our inclusive international community. Our school is home to children, families, and teachers from more than 90 countries, creating a vibrant environment where everyone flourishes. This includes you, our parents, who are an essential part of everything we do.
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KEY DATES

Take a look at our term dates and upcoming events.

Our calendar
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Important documents

Find here the important documents for the British International School (BIS) Abu Dhabi
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School essentials

We’ll make sure your child has the most enjoyable time at our school, from their first to their last day with us. Here are the school essentials to ensure your child is happy, comfortable and confident.
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Lunch menu
Freshly prepared every day, our healthy lunch menu fuels our students’ learning.
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School bus
Our safe and efficient bus service covers the main residential areas of Abu Dhabi.
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Uniform
Our students are proud to wear our smart school uniform, which gives them a genuine sense of belonging.
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Health and wellbeing
Our highly qualified teachers and pastoral care team make sure your child is healthy, happy, and supported.
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House system
Every student belongs to one of our ‘houses’, ensuring they feel part of a strong community.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • What is your average class size?

    At every stage in their education, your child will learn in small class sizes that give them an exceptional personalised learning experience.

    Our early years children (ages 3-5) learn in a maximum class size of 20. They’re supported by their class teacher and two assistants.

    At primary level (ages 5-11), our students study in an average class of 24. They’re supported by one teacher and one assistant.

    Our secondary students (ages 11-18) learn in a variety of class sizes, which depend on the subject being taught. Typically, however, the average class is between 15 and 20 students. 

  • What curricula do you teach?

    We teach the very best in British and international curricula. This includes the English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). These pathways set the standard for global education and give our students access to the world’s leading universities.

    Early Years (ages 3-5): Early Years Foundation Stage

    Primary (ages 5-11): English National Curriculum

    Key Stage 3 (ages 11-14): English National Curriculum

    Key Stage 4 (ages 14-16): Cambridge IGCSE

    Senior School: (ages 16-18): International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) 

  • Do you focus on academic success?

    Of course. Our students get superb academic results. In 2021, 63% of our IGCSE students got A* or A grades – more than double the UK average. Our 2022 IBDP cohort exceeded the global average, too, with seven of our students placed in the world’s top 10%.

    While academic excellence is an absolute priority, we know there’s more to a well-rounded education. Our exceptional teachers will nurture your child’s growth, supporting them to do what they love, excel in new areas, and be ambitious. We want your child to leave us with the social, personal, and academic skills they need to succeed, and become a culturally aware, socially responsible global citizen.

  • Do you provide pastoral care?

    Yes, your child’s wellbeing is our top priority. We know that children who feel safe, supported, and included thrive – both personally and academically. 

    All our students follow our Personal, Social and Moral Education curriculum. Supported by our highly qualified pastoral team, they learn about healthy lifestyles and develop the tools they need to look after their physical and emotional wellbeing. We also have a comprehensive safeguarding programme that ensures our school community is looked after.

  • How do you personalise learning?
    In small class sizes, our teachers get to know each child individually. They’ll identify your child’s strengths, encourage them to do what they love, and help them to overcome any challenges. Our teachers work hard to understand how each child learns best, too, and nurture personal and academic growth.
  • What support programmes do you offer?
    We run a successful English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme for students who need extra help with their English. Our expert EAL team offer support in class and organise bespoke sessions. Our Additional Educational Needs (AEN) team create tailored learning programmes for students who need extra support.
  • Do you organise clubs and enrichment activities?
    Our students can choose from more than 100 co-curricular activities and clubs, which take place at lunchtime and after-school. There’s something for everyone and the list of activities changes each term. Clubs range from Lego robotics, coding and Minecraft to basketball, badminton and dance.
  • What excursions and trips do you offer?
    Learning outside the classroom is a vital part of our students’ development. Your child will go on adventures in the UAE desert, mountains, and along the coast. They’ll explore the world on once-in-a-lifetime expeditions to Tanzania and Switzerland. And they’ll learn in different ways through day trips to galleries, museums, and mosques.
  • What are the school's hours?
    7:40 am to 2:45 pm.
MORE FAQS

NEWS AND EVENTS

News image Message from the Principal-Message from the Principal-11 News | Posts From Our People | Featured
Message from the Principal

Yesterday saw the UAE recognise and celebrate mums. In fact, in the Arab world, there are over 10 countries that all celebrate the importance of mums on this day.

The history of it in the Arab world originates from Egypt. It was introduced in Egypt by a journalist called Mustafa Amin and was first celebrated in 1956. The practice has since been adopted by many Arab countries.

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Message from the Head of Primary

Recently, I've had the incredible privilege of connecting with professionals and leaders across the Middle East, India, and Asia. These conversations have surpassed the typical networking experience, becoming windows into diverse perspectives, rich experiences, and unique expertise.

It has become clear that collaboration is not just a buzzword but a powerful force that moves us beyond individual capacities and geographical boundaries.

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Proud Onlooker

For a moment I stood a little aside from the Community Iftar this week.  Alone, an onlooker, I watched a scene unfold.  Children ran and played.  Older children organised fun and games.  Adults talked and laughed, the sun turned the sky a rosy shade of pink and the smell of the imminent iftar filled the air.  A voice cried out in song.  New faces, familiar faces, old faces, smiling faces.  Standing alone, I couldn’t help but smile – and I couldn’t stop my heart from bursting with pride – at the sight of this community being together.

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OUR DOORS ARE ALWAYS OPEN

Your child can join us at any time during the year. Get in touch with our admissions team to find out more.

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