Alan Cocker
Principal
At BIS Abu Dhabi, our warm, friendly and diverse community fosters a global outlook. Our students thrive in an environment where curiosity is encouraged, personal growth is nurtured, and academic outcomes are celebrated.
We pride ourselves on our rich curriculum offer, which is enhanced by our links with UNICEF, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and The Juilliard School. Our adaptive curriculum gives students a global outlook, as well as nurturing the skills and attributes they need to be successful in the future.
As a school, we’re committed to personalised learning and the opportunities that exist for young people in and outside of the curriculum. Supported by outstanding facilities, we always put our children first; we respond to their needs and create local and global learning experiences that enrich their lives – and the lives of others.
One of the greatest gifts we share and cherish is our BIS Abu Dhabi community. It's a genuine pleasure to be a member of this international community, which is made up of more than 90 different nationalities. We believe that the best international schools embrace the community they serve, cultivating a tightknit family culture, strong partnerships, and a commitment to philanthropy. This is why BIS Abu Dhabi is such a special place to be.
I encourage you to come and see us, and hope you decide to become a member of our wonderful family.
We have organised the information available for this school into 10 sections and 42 questions. Click or tap on the name of each section to read more.
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Number of students
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2300 +
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Number of nationalities represented in the school
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More than 90 nationalities
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Most common nationality
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British
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Ratio of local students to international students
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15%
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Native English speaking teachers
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Yes
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Language support for students not fluent in English
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Yes, we offer EAL (English as an Additional Language)
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Additional language classes offered by the school
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Arabic, Spanish, French and German
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Max. number of students per class
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24
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Average number of students per class
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22
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Does the school employ teaching assistants?
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Yes
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Use of technology in the classroom
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Technology is an essential part of education at our school, but we use a balanced approach as we believe it is crucial for students to also learn the traditional way. To be able to live, learn, and work successfully in our information-rich society, students must be able to utilise technology effectively and therefore parents are required to ensure that their child has a suitable learning device in school to enhance their learning experience. Our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) guidelines provide parents with essential information to ensure their children have the most appropriate device to support their learning. The latest BYOD Parent Guide can be accessed through this link: https://anyflip.com/oyxz/kbhw/
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Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures)
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The Nord Anglia Virtual School Experience means your child always has access to personalised learning taught by their school’s world-class teachers. When necessary, we will welcome your child into their classroom through our virtual school.
Your child will:
- Participate in lessons in real-time with their world-class teachers wherever possible
- Receive and submit assignments
- Collaborate with their peers
- Develop essential skills independently
- Be recognised for their outstanding work
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Do students practice religion at the school? What religion?
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No
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How does the school accommodate non-religious students or students of a different religion?
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N/A
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External examinations or assessments available
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IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme, BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma Programme
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Results in these examinations
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Https://www.nordangliaeducation.com/bis-abu-dhabi/academic-excellence
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Do teachers assign homework to their students?
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Yes
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Approximate hours of homework given
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This is age dependant
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Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation
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100%
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Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs
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Yes
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Learning support offered
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English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Additional Education Needs (AEN)
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The school supports gifted, able and talented students
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We are committed to recognising and nurturing gifted, able, and talented students through a personalised approach to learning. We tailor teaching to individual strengths and provide additional challenge in areas where students demonstrate high ability, whether that’s in Maths, English, PE, or other subjects.
Students who are significantly ahead of age-related expectations are added to a dedicated register, ensuring their progress is closely monitored and supported. For example, a student excelling in phonics in Early Years may join sessions with older year groups to maintain appropriate challenge and engagement. In Mathematics, students may be invited to take part in the UKMT (United Kingdom Mathematics Trust) competitions, and those in Secondary who show advanced understanding can be prepared for extended or higher-level examination papers.
Beyond the classroom, we offer a wide range of enriching co-curricular activities designed to stretch students’ abilities and foster their broader talents- whether in the arts, sciences, leadership, or sports.
Our aim is to ensure that every student reaches their full potential by providing opportunities that stimulate, motivate, and inspire at every stage of their learning journey.
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Student access to education psychologist
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Yes
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Entry evaluation for students
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We complete entrance assessments from Year 1 and play sessions for our young learners in Early Years (Nursery and FS2).
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Brief description of entry evaluation required
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An age-appropriate assessment, which determines the right age group and class the child will be enrolled in. Previous reports will also be reviewed.
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Waiting list
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This is year group dependent.
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Deadline for registration (new academic year)
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We accept applications throughout the year depending on availability. The Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) have guidelines which the school follows.
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Students can join after academic year begins
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Yes, with ADEK approval.
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School start time
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7:40am
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School finish time
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3:00pm Monday - Thursday, 12:00pm on Friday
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Supervised care before/after school
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Yes, after school activities take place from 3:15 - 4:15 pm.
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School bus service available
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Yes
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School provided lunches
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We have partnered with ADNH Catering, who offer nutritious, healthy and tasty snacks and lunch options every day. For Primary students, parents can conveniently pre-order meals from the regularly changing menu.
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Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc)
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Yes
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Uniform required
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Yes
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Facilities at the school
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Large classrooms, Primary and Secondary libraries, an Arts Centre including a 500+ seated auditorium, high-tech dance and drama studios, three modern music suites and three practice spaces, a Creative Technology Zone for Design Technology, Coding, Computer Science, and our Eco Edventure, a unique outdoor and enclosed learning area designed to immerse students in nature.
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Sports facilities at the school
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A semi-Olympic sized swimming pool, an indoor heated swimming pool, natural grass football and rugby playing fields, outdoor basketball courts, two large air-conditioned multi-purpose halls that can be used for basketball, volleyball, tennis, and other sports, and a large gym sized 150m2.
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Qualities and characteristics best defining the school
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The British International School Abu Dhabi champions an ambitious and transformational education. We believe there are no limits to what our students can achieve. Our inclusive and welcoming community represents over 90 nationalities, fostering global awareness, mutual respect, and a strong sense of belonging.
Academic excellence is central to our identity. By combining the best of British and international education —from EYFS to IGCSE, and through to the IBDP or BTEC pathways— our students are empowered to follow personalised routes that prepare them for success at the world’s top universities and beyond.
As part of Nord Anglia Education —the world’s leading premium schools group— our students gain a truly global outlook and benefit from exclusive collaborations with world-renowned institutions including The Juilliard School, MIT, and UNICEF. These partnerships, along with transformative trips, expeditions, and enrichment opportunities, broaden students’ horizons and develop key life skills such as creativity, empathy, confidence, and resilience.
With over 80 Nord Anglia schools in 32 countries, BIS Abu Dhabi is part of a global learning community that inspires over 70,000 students aged 1.5 to 19. Our students are not only academically successful—they are curious, socially responsible, and equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing, interconnected world.
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Teaching approach of the school
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At The British International School Abu Dhabi, our teaching approach is deeply personalised, empowering students to shape their academic journey from the Early Years through to Year 13. We follow the National Curriculum for England, offering a clearly structured pathway through the IGCSEs and on to either the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma in Years 12 and 13.
Our passionate, highly qualified teachers tailor learning to each child’s strengths, interests, and goals. This ensures that students are both challenged and supported as they develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to thrive. High expectations are balanced with a nurturing, inclusive classroom environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration.
As part of Nord Anglia Education, our curriculum is enriched by unique collaborations with MIT and The Juilliard School, allowing students to explore STEAM and the performing arts in meaningful, innovative ways. This broad and dynamic academic experience is complemented by a wide array of sports and extra-curricular activities, supporting students’ personal development beyond the classroom.
Above all, we prioritise the quality of teaching as the most significant driver of student progress. Through ongoing professional development and a commitment to excellence, we ensure that every student receives an education that is both rigorous and inspiring.
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Early Years | Ages 3-5
Our youngest learners follow the English EYFS framework, which provides the best possible start to their education. Through multi-sensory play, our nursery school children enjoy fun, exciting experiences that spark curiosity and cultivate a love of learning.
At BIS Abu Dhabi, our nursery and reception children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, carefully adapted to our international context.
In classes of no more than 20 children, with a dedicated teacher and two assistants, your child receives the attention they deserve. Our personalised approach ensures each student is supported in the way they learn best, helping them to flourish from the very start.
We work closely with parents, too – inviting you into the classroom and keeping you regularly updated on your child’s journey.
Primary | Ages 5-11
Our broad and balanced British primary curriculum lays the foundations for your child’s success, combining outstanding subject teaching with amazing activities, trips, and hands-on projects. Our teachers will nurture your child’s growth, helping them to become confident, curious, and creative learners.
Their learning progresses through two stages, Key Stage 1 (age 5–7) and Key Stage 2 (age 7–11), which build our students’ skills and knowledge in core subjects like English, maths, and science, while Key Stage 2 introduces more specialist teaching in areas such as ICT, music, drama, humanities, art, languages, and PE—laying strong foundations for success at secondary and beyond.
Secondary | Ages 11-16
At Secondary School, our students follow the English National Curriculum through Key Stage 3 (ages 11–14) and Key Stage 4 (ages 14–16), which culminates in their IGCSE exams at the age of 16.
Our curriculum encourages students to take on new challenges, pursue their academic passions, and develop their knowledge in specialist subjects. Lessons challenge, engage, and inspire, ensuring our students achieve outstanding IGCSE results.
Exceptional learning experiences cultivate a global mindset, preparing them for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma pathway.
Senior School | Ages 16-18
After completing their IGCSEs in Year 11, our students continue with one of the following pathways in Key Stage 5:
International Baccalaureate Programme
The pinnacle of international education, our IB Programme is the ideal springboard to the world’s top universities. Through a wide choice of subjects, leadership opportunities, and extraordinary learning experiences, the Full Diploma (IBDP) and IB Courses Programmes create successful, independent young people.
BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma
Our BTEC Business, IT and Sport programmes provide vocational pathways to university and beyond. They are perfect for students looking for a more immersive, practical experience. Developing our students' theoretical knowledge and practical skills, our BTEC courses offer the perfect blend of academic rigour and hands-on, real-world experiences.
Our Campus
Set across 25,000+ square metres, our vibrant, purpose-built campus combines cutting-edge facilities with inspiring learning spaces. Students explore their talents in our Creative Technology Zone, science labs, and Design & Technology workspace, or perform in our Arts Centre featuring a 524-seat theatre, music suites, and dance and drama studios. Our libraries house 15,000+ books, while our indoor pools, gym, sports hall, and shaded courts support sport for all. Our dedicated early years area includes sensory outdoor spaces and the Eco Edventure area, fostering curiosity and a love of nature. Every space is designed to help students thrive.
Parent and Student Testimonial
At BIS Abu Dhabi, our community is at the heart of everything we do. Hear directly from one of our families as they share their unique journeys, from settling into a new country to thriving in academics, sports, and student life.
🎥 The Coquand Family shares how their sons found confidence, friendships, and a love for learning after relocating from France in 2024.
This story highlights what makes BIS Abu Dhabi more than just a school, it’s a place where students grow, families connect, and lifelong memories are made.
Student Testimonial - How Little Steps Lead to a Big Future!
At BIS Abu Dhabi, our community is at the heart of everything we do. Hear directly from one of our families as they share their unique journeys, from settling into a new country to thriving in academics, sports, and student life.
🎥 Sophia’s Story takes us from her first steps in FS1 to the IB Diploma, showing how BIS Abu Dhabi inspires curiosity and creativity from the very beginning.
This story highlights what makes BIS Abu Dhabi more than just a school, it’s a place where students grow, families connect, and lifelong memories are made.
