Quick summary of key school information
School details
Number of students |
30 |
Number of nationalities represented in the school |
It varies, but we almost always have a mix of local and various international. |
Ratio of local students to international students |
Varies from Hub to Hub. |
Native English speaking teachers |
Our Learning Coaches and Course Managers all speak English at a professional level, ensuring clear and effective support for every Learner. While not all are native speakers, their fluency and expertise guarantee high-quality guidance within our international community. |
Language support for students not fluent in English |
BGA does not provide separate English classes. To join, Learners must already have a strong level of English—either as native speakers, through at least two years in an English-speaking curriculum, or by completing our placement test. The minimum requirement is a B1 level for Lower Secondary or grades 7/8 and a B2 level for IGCSEs and A-Levels or grades 9-12, ensuring they can fully engage with our curriculum and thrive in their studies. |
Additional language classes offered by the school |
Yes, BGA offers a variety of language courses within our curriculum, including Portuguese, Spanish, French, German, and Afrikaans (French and German are only offered for Lower Secondary). |
Max. number of students per class |
30-45 depending on the Hub. |
Average number of students per class |
This depends on each Hub. |
Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
No, instead of teaching assistants, BGA provides one Learning Coach for every 15 Learners. This ensures personalised support, close guidance, and meaningful mentorship, while also maintaining a balanced ratio so every Learner gets the attention they need. |
Use of technology in the classroom |
At BGA, technology is at the heart of our learning model. Learners access their accredited curriculum through our digital platform, which allows them to work at their own pace, submit assignments, and receive feedback directly from Course Managers. Alongside this, our Worktools system keeps Learners, parents, and Learning Coaches connected—tracking progress, generating reports, and providing clear insights into each child’s learning journey. This digital-first approach is balanced with the physical environment of our Hubs, where technology supports collaboration, mentorship, and real-world projects—ensuring Learners gain knowledge, skills, and community. |
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) |
Yes. BGA is already built on a hybrid model that combines online learning with in-person support, so our Learners are well-prepared for any situation. All courses are delivered through our digital platform, meaning that academic progress continues uninterrupted—whether Learners are at a Hub or at home. In times of disruption, Learning Coaches and Mentors stay connected with Learners through virtual check-ins, video conferencing, and ongoing communication tools, ensuring guidance, motivation, and community are never lost. Our model was designed with flexibility in mind, making it resilient and adaptable even in unexpected circumstances. |
External examinations or assessments available |
For the British Curriculum, Learners complete both International GCSEs and A Levels, and through the American Curriculum they can pursue the US High School Diploma. In the case of the Portuguese Curriculum, they complete exames nacionais. |
Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
No, BGA does not assign traditional homework. Each Learner follows an individual timeline agreed with their Learning Coach, giving them ownership of their learning. While some Learners choose to complete studies at home outside of Hub hours, this is entirely optional and not a requirement. |
Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
While our flexible learning model can often make education more accessible for children with special learning needs, BGA does not employ specialised staff or offer dedicated programmes in this area. Families who require additional support are welcome to complement their child’s learning with external specialists alongside the BGA model. |
The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
At BGA, learning is entirely self-paced, which means gifted and talented students are never held back by a fixed classroom schedule. They can progress through subjects more quickly, explore areas of personal interest in greater depth, and take on additional challenges without the risk of becoming bored or disengaged. Our Learning Coaches and Course Managers provide ongoing support and encouragement, helping each Learner set ambitious goals and stretch their abilities to reach their full potential. |
Student access to education psychologist |
No |
Entry evaluation for students |
In most circumstances there is no evaluation. The only assessment we have is in the circumstance of no official academic records. |
Brief description of entry evaluation required |
We only carry out an assessment if a Learner does not have official academic records, for example in the case of homeschooling. In these situations, a placement test may be used to determine the best starting point within the curriculum, ensuring the Learner begins at a level suited to their abilities. |
Waiting list |
There are waiting lists for certain Hubs. Contact admissions to find out more. |
Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
We offer rolling admissions, so Learners can apply and join BGA at any time of year. |
School start time |
BGA Hubs are generally open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (exact hours vary by Hub), and Learners are expected to attend around five hours each day. Within that timeframe, they choose the hours that suit them best, allowing them to balance their studies with sports, hobbies, or other personal commitments. |
School finish time |
BGA Hubs are generally open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (exact hours vary by Hub), and Learners are expected to attend around five hours each day. Within that timeframe, they choose the hours that suit them best, allowing them to balance their studies with sports, hobbies, or other personal commitments. |
Supervised care before/after school |
Learning Coaches are in the Hub during open hours, but not beyond. |
School bus service available |
No |
School provided lunches |
No. Learners are encouraged to bring their own food and use our kitchenette to prepare it. Or Hubs are often located near supermarkets and restaurants. |
Uniform required |
No |
Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
BGA does not organise its own extracurricular activities. Instead, we encourage families to take advantage of opportunities available in the local community. However we do have clubs at BGA, some in-person and some online depending on the Hub. If a Learner is interested in it, they're encouraged to create a club to engage others! |
Sports activities included |
None |
Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
No |
Facilities at the school |
BGA Hubs do not have dedicated facilities such as libraries, theaters, or science labs. However, we encourage Learners to take advantage of resources and opportunities available within their local community. |
Sports facilities at the school |
None |
Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
BGA is a flexible, Learner-centred school built around three pillars: Knowledge, Skills, and Community. Our learning model develops academic understanding, practical abilities, and social connections, empowering Learners to take ownership of their education. With personalised guidance from dedicated Learning Coaches and Course Managers, Learners can progress at their own pace while building independence, adaptability, and skills for the future. |
Teaching approach of the school |
At BGA we are a hybrid school. This means that the curriculum is fully online, guided by remote Course Managers who provide academic support and feedback. Learners work in Hubs with in-person Learning Coaches, who offer daily personalised guidance, help plan studies, and support wellbeing. The programme is self-paced and personalised, allowing Learners to progress at their own speed. Roles:
Course Managers: Online subject specialists who track progress and provide subject-specific support. This blended approach is built around BGA’s three pillars: Knowledge, Skills, and Community. |