BIS has gained recognition from both the UK Department for Education and the Serbian Ministry of Education. The school today spreads across three campuses: one primary and two secondary
The main BIS curriculum is the National Curriculum for England, which is aligned with most leading British International schools. However, it is adapted in many ways to the Serbian and international context.
Could you walk us through what parents need to do if they wish to enrol their child in the BIS nursery or primary school?
— The first step is to arrange a meeting with the head of admissions, who will walk parents through the enrolment process. Following this, the parents and child will be offered a tour of the school, meeting the head and other teachers, as well as the children.
Should parents wish to take this further, then a trial day will be organised to see if the parents and child are happy with what we offer at BIS, as this is a mutual process. Provided everything goes to plan, we then accept the child through the whole academic year. One of the joys of working at an international school is that the children are used to new children joining their classes and newcomers are welcomed very easily indeed; most transfers are seamless.
How does the BIS curriculum cater to both British and Serbian educational standards, as well as the international standard?
— Our curriculum is tailored to the needs of our learners, many of whom are Serbian. We place great emphasis on our host nation and celebrate many Serbian national events. For example, our Serbian teacher presents an annual assembly on Saint Sava. We also engage in many trips and outdoor activities to local museums and landmarks, celebrating the culture and history of Serbia.
We believe that it is very important for children to have a love of learning, to feel happy and safe in school and to want to come to school every day to learn
Our children have the opportunity to study Serbian, which is open to HAPPY CHILDREN ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE BIS has gained recognition from both the UK Department for Education and the Serbian Ministry of Education. The school today spreads across three campuses: one primary and two secondary GARETH EVANS Head of the BIS Primary School both native and non-native learners, once their level of English is proficient. Our main curriculum is the National Curriculum for England, which is in line with most leading British International schools. However, it is adapted in many ways to our Serbian and international context.
Your school places a strong emphasis on student wellbeing, fostering a sense of community and cultivating a love for learning. Can you elaborate on why these aspects are prioritised and how they contribute to the academic success of your pupils?
— I believe that it is very important for young children to have a love of learning, to feel happy and safe in school and to want to come to school every day to learn. In facilitating this, their sense of self-esteem and self-worth will grow, increasing their confidence and developing strong characters. This is balanced with increased academic rigour and high standards. In order to achieve excellence, children should be happy. Without happiness, a child will not thrive and achieve excellence.