Premium Private International School in Bahrain

British School of Bahrain | BSB

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British School of Bahrain is a Premium Private International School, located in Hamala, in the heart of Bahrain. Rated as Outstanding by BSO and BQA, the British school of Bahrain has been one of the leading schools in Bahrain for over 26 years.

Our purpose-built campus caters to students from ages 3 to 18; with over 90 nationalities we are a truly international school and our value of individuality is evident in our inclusive and innovative teaching approach. Our students attained the highest A Level results in Bahrain in 2021 and our graduates attend leading universities globally. At our School in Bahrain, we nurture our students to develop the skills needed in a modern connected world and achieve exceptional academic results, all in a stress free environment.

WHY CHOOSE OUR SCHOOL IN BAHRAIN

1:11 Ratio of teachers to students

36 sports offered, 32 sports teams

100 sporting fixtures for the school teams

90 nationalities

3-18 years

100% pupils learn public speaking

100% of Y10 & Y 12 students complete a personal investigation

36 subjects offered at GCSE, A level & BTEC

British national curriculum infant Reggio Emilia Approach

4 languages

Weekly inspirational lectures to enrich senior students 

BSB celebrates the highest A level results in the country for the second year in a row!
Congratulations to the A level class of 2022 on their excellent results

33%

achieved A*

Over 50%

achieved A* to A

73%

achieved A* to B

CONTINUED LEARNING GUARANTEED

At the British School of Bahrain, we equip all of our children with the skills and attitudes required to take on any challenge now and in the future. Each student develops resilience, tolerance, and an international mindset, ready to embark on their interconnected global future. The BSBs dynamic learning means that, in this ever-changing environment, our private school in Bahrain is always prepared to all eventualities; ensuring our students do not miss out on a moment of their education.
 

OUR CAMPUS IS SAFE AND OPEN

By implementing extensive health & safety measures, our school in Bahrain is ready to welcome our students back to class. For a blended learning schooling option, our live-streamed teacher-led lessons are still available enabling us to deliver a full curriculum in-class or online.
 

WE OPEN DOORS TO THE WORLD AND THE FUTURE

Our school has the most diverse campus in Bahrain with over 90 nationalities. This along with our English National curriculum offers children in Bahrain an unrivalled educational foundation and global perspective from an early age. As an outstanding international school in Bahrain, we are celebrating 26 years of excellence. Rich with experience, yet modern and future focused in our approach. The Infant School’s innovative Reggio Emilia approach to learning was the first in Bahrain. Every year our students secure places at some of the best universities in the UK, USA and Europe.

A guide on schools in Bahrain

What should be considered when choosing a school in Bahrain?

There are several important factors for parents to consider when selecting a quality education in Bahrain.

• Qualified and experienced teachers who provide a positive learning environment that ultimately benefits students.

• A school with a culture of ongoing learning and collaboration where teachers prioritise their professional development, share best practices and ultimately engage and connect more with students. A school with an engaged team, a nurturing environment and a commitment to lifelong learning.

• Schools in Bahrain with an international curriculums. It is important to understand the options available and choose an academically challenging curriculum that is child centric however is not overwhelming.

• A number of private schools in Bahrain offer extracurricular activities. Taking part in sports, music, arts programs and other after-school programs provides an opportunity to build teamwork skills, bond with other students and explore various interests. These activities can also enhance the personality and moral values of the students. It is important to assess what is on offer as these activities contribute to a better learning process and developing well-rounded individuals.

• A school with a clear set of values that promote positive behaviours.

• The distance between the school and home, the accessibility and whether the school provides transportation. Shorter travel times ensure students arrive on time and are fresh and ready for a new day.

• The age ranges taught at the school as a through school will ensure that students remain with their friends throughout their learning journey making lifelong friends and connections.

• The academic results and pastoral care provided. Before making any decision, a visit to the school is recommended to experience the atmosphere of the school, meet the teachers, observe the students in their classes and at play, speak to other parents and generally gather more information. Admissions for the top international schools in Bahrain tend to have waiting lists so it is highly recommended that parents apply in advance in order to secure a space for their child / children.

What are the benefits of a private education?

A private school education goes beyond academics helping students develop social skills through the provision of a well-rounded education. Students have access to a wide range of specialisations including arts programs, sports, maths, sciences and extra-curricular programs that they are highly encouraged to participate in for their personal growth. The best private schools enable students to thrive in a supportive environment with highly qualified dedicated teachers nurturing each individual’s unique abilities. This individualised approach engages students, tapping into their natural curiosity and creating lifelong learners who prosper both in school and beyond. Private schools make it a priority to involve parents into the school community from frequent parent-teacher meetings to coffee mornings to participation in parent committees and fundraising activities. Families become an integral part of the school community and their children’s education.

What defines a premium private school?

Premium private schools are innovative, relevant and forward thinking. These best in class schools focus on continuous improvement across all aspects of the school from overall facilities to academic profile to student development and school culture.

The best private schools focus on their academic profile to ensure that they provide the best educational curriculum delivered and assessed by highly qualified teachers while integrating technology into the overall learning path.

Top international schools believe that education is not just centred on producing intellectual achievement but also recognise their responsibility to develop the whole child. These schools focus on nurturing and growing students’ academic abilities while also offering extensive extracurricular opportunities. These additional activities allow students to pursue their unique passions, explore new talents, and cultivate both physical and social skills. These opportunities challenge the students enabling them to grow in confidence, independence and responsibility.

The greatest private schools are student centred, placing the student at the heart of every decision. These schools deliver a safe and secure environment where students are happy, productive, engaged and accepted by the community, valued as individuals and supported by teachers and peers. The best private schools foster a culture of collaboration and communication developing a strong connected community. They promote cultural intelligence and teach students how to operate successfully in a multi-cultural world.

Are international schools better?

International students generally form the majority of the community at an international school. This diverse community from different nationalities and cultures enables every student to be educated on the importance of being culturally sensitive and aware. A school with a truly international environment also further enhances students’ social skills, communication skills and critical thinking skills - preparing them well for further study and future work.

How is the school system in Bahrain?

Bahrain consists of 30 islands in the Arabian Gulf and has been a major centre of trading since the old ages. It was the first Gulf Country to discover oil and has one of the region’s most diversified economies. It has one of the oldest public education systems in the region that was established in 1932 when the government assumed responsibility for operating two existing schools. As of this time, the school system expanded and Bahrain now has a literacy rate of 95.7%. The Ministry of Education is responsible for education in the country and their mission is to provide educational opportunities for every citizen to develop their mental, physical and emotional potential and skills. A rigorous assessment program delivered by the Education & Training Quality Authority evaluates all schools and secondary vocational institutions on an annual basis to ensure that the quality and effectiveness of the education offered in Bahrain meets international standards. There are two school systems in Bahrain: public schools which are government-run, and private schools -many of which are international schools. Education in the public system is free with students also receiving supplies, uniforms, meals and transportation for free. There are now 50 private schools in Bahrain with new private schools opening in the market - further expanding the international curriculum options available to the local Bahraini and expat communities. Education in Bahrain typically includes six years of primary (also referred to as elementary) school (age 6 to 11), three years of intermediate school (12-14 years) and three years of secondary school (15-18). Schools vary between having two to three semesters a year, with an academic calendar that runs from September to early July as mandated by the Bahraini government. Private schools in Bahrain offer different international curriculums - from the British curriculum, to the American or Canadian systems and the International Baccalaureate. Tuition fees vary dependent on the school and the class attended. The best private schools in Bahrain tend to have waiting lists and an assessment process for entry so it is recommended that parents apply well in advance in order to secure a spot for their children.

How to choose the best school in Bahrain?

There are 50 international schools in Bahrain available. The first step would be to conduct some online research. There are a number of educational sites that provide overviews of each school, such as Bahrain Schools Guide and Edarabia. Also consider joining parent forums such as Mums in Bahrain and ExpatWomen to gather feedback and information. The second step would be to visit each school website for further information. The next step would be to develop a shortlist and arrange an in person visit. The final step would be to make a decision on based on personal preferences and values and child’s education and extracurricular needs.

How to apply to a private school in Bahrain?

The most effective way to apply to a private school in Bahrain is to contact the qualified admissions team who can help walk parents through the process. This is especially useful for expat families moving to Bahrain, who will be able to receive additional guidance on regulatory requirements relating to relocating schools internationally. The top international schools in Bahrain also have online admissions forms that guide applicants through the process and detail what is required to apply.

What are the admissions requirements for a private international school in Bahrain?

An application fee is standard for all applications for private schools in Bahrain. Documents required for the application process include copies of:

• Child’s passport

• Both parents passports

• Central Population Registry cards of child and parents (if available at the time of application)

• Child immunization card

• Passport size photo of the child

• School report (if applicable)

• Previous school transfer certificate (if applicable)

10 important facts about an education in Bahrain

1. Bahrain’s public school system dates back to 1932 and is the oldest in the Arabian Peninsula.

2. Prior to the 20th Century, there were only religion schools in Bahrain dedicated primarily to Qur’an studies.

3. Public education in Bahrain is free until secondary school for both girls and boys.

4. Education is mandatory for children aged 6 to 14.

5. The literacy rate in Bahrain is 95.7%.

6. There are 50 private schools in Bahrain.

7. Schools in Bahrain typically have two semesters from September to July.

8. Each school in Bahrain observes different holidays, expect for the Islamic holidays which are observed by the whole country.

9. Tuition fees vary dependent on the school and the year attended.

10. Education in Bahrain is expansive with a variety of international curriculums available.

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT OUR SCHOOL IN BAHRAIN