Join our Primary Open Day!
Thursday, 26th March 2026 at 08:45 am
The British School Warsaw is proud to introduce A-Levels as a new academic pathway for students entering Years 12 and 13. This development offers greater personalisation and flexibility for students already at the school, as well as for families moving to Warsaw who are looking for an educational experience tailored to their child's strengths and aspirations.
To understand the vision behind this important addition, we spoke with Mr John Brett, School Principal at The British School Warsaw. Mr Brett shared his perspective on the opportunities A-Levels will bring to our students and the wider school community.
According to School Principal Mr John Brett, introducing A-Levels allows the school to support an even broader range of learning styles and student profiles.
“A-Levels widen access for Year 12 and 13 students for whom the IB may not be a suitable pathway,” explains Mr Brett. “We can now offer an additional route that aligns better with certain learning styles and future aspirations.”
By offering both A-Levels and the IBDP, the school reinforces its commitment to personalised education and student choice.
A-Levels appeal to students who prefer to specialise early and study a smaller number of subjects in depth.
“Students who prefer to study fewer subjects in a more linear fashion-gaining deeper and deeper understanding as they go-typically thrive,” notes Mr John Brett.
This structure supports students who enjoy immersing themselves in specific subject areas and want to focus their efforts on what interests them most.
A-Levels are internationally respected for their academic rigour and depth. They are recognised by universities around the world as strong evidence of subject mastery.
“A-Levels are recognised internationally as entry criteria to most universities,” says Mr Brett.
This recognition ensures students can access competitive higher education opportunities in the UK, Europe, North America, and globally.
A-Levels help students shape their academic interests with a clear view toward university and future career paths.
“A-Levels enable students to find subjects and areas that truly interest them,” explains Mr Brett.
By working intensively within chosen disciplines, students develop strong analytical skills, intellectual independence and academic confidence that support success in higher education.
The international environment at The British School Warsaw enriches the A-Level experience in meaningful ways.
“Students mix with peers from different countries and backgrounds,” highlights Mr John Brett. “Studying A-Levels alongside our established IBDP programme is a significant advantage.”
This multicultural context encourages open-mindedness, collaboration and an appreciation for diverse perspectives-skills essential for young global citizens.
Selecting the right subjects is a key part of the A-Level journey. Students at TBS Warsaw receive thoughtful and personalised guidance throughout this process.
“It is important to try and find your element-the place where you feel most comfortable intellectually and academically, both in process and outcome,” says Mr Principal.
This approach ensures students choose subjects that reflect their strengths, align with their ambitions and support their future university choices.
A-Levels not only offer academic depth; they also help students develop valuable skills that prepare them for higher education and beyond. According to School Principal Mr Brett, students gain:
These qualities form a solid foundation for future academic and professional success.
For families arriving from abroad, A-Levels offer both continuity and flexibility.
“For children who have had a different education pre-16, who prefer studying fewer subjects, or who want a wider choice, the A-Level option is perfect,” Mr Brett explains.
This makes the programme particularly attractive for internationally mobile families seeking a familiar and globally respected qualification.
The introduction of A-Levels marks an exciting milestone for The British School Warsaw.
“It gives TBSW an exciting extra string to our bow!” says Mr John Brett. “We remain a flagship IBDP school, but now we have even more choices for students wanting to stay or join our amazing school.”
With A-Levels now part of the senior curriculum, The British School Warsaw continues to strengthen its position as a leading international school committed to excellence, opportunity and personalised learning.
