Senior School

Years 7 to 9 (11 to 14 year olds)

These are the first years of senior school and consequently there is an increased emphasis upon academic work, independent study and homework. Subject specialists teach these older students across the curriculum. Students study English language and literature, mathematics, geography, history, chemistry, physics, biology, music, drama, art, German, and information and communication technology. There is also physical education.

As students progress through the senior years of the school, they are encouraged to take increasing responsibility for their studies. Independence is encouraged within a framework of high expectations. As well as aiming to develop the whole person, we also ensure that they build the firm foundation necessary for the rigours of study in the following years. In this way, we expect that students will eventually be able to achieve their full potential and be prepared for the demands of later life.

See further downloads, under "Extras" on the right, for full downloadable curriculum details.

Years 10 and 11 (14 to 16 year olds)

During these two academic years, students follow courses leading to the International General Certificate of Secondary Education of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate. IGCSE courses are studied each year by hundreds of thousands of students in international schools the world over. A wide range of academic subjects are offered by the school for study over the two years.

The courses are examined in May and June of the second year. Examination papers are sent from England and, after completion under strict examination conditions, are returned to Cambridge for marking. University of Cambridge certificates are issued to successful candidates. These certificates are a passport to further education around the world, for example, for entry onto British Advanced Level courses, the International Baccalaureate Diploma programme, and other college courses.

Years 12 and 13 - IB 1 and IB 2 (16 to 18 year olds)

During the final two years of school, students at BISB study the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). This rigorous programme, consisting of six academic groups and three core areas, is recognised by the world’s leading universities, and is aimed at teaching students more than just a simple collection of facts.

The IBDP culminates in the award of a Diploma which is recognized worldwide for entry to universities.

The three core aspects are the Extended Essay (EE), which develops crucial independent research and writing skills needed at any university, the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), which encourages appreciation of different cultural perspectives and interdisciplinary knowledge assimilation, and Creativity, Action, Service (CAS), which stimulates the students’ interests in areas outside of the educational institution by encouraging them to become involved in artistic pursuits, sports and community service.