ACE of Brussels and British Junior Academy of Brussels - Prep and Senior Campus are both in Brussels, about 3 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge IGCSE programmes. ACE of Brussels also offers Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge International AS Levels and Cambridge A Levels, and British Junior Academy of Brussels - Prep and Senior Campus also offers IB and British. Published annual fees are €13,999 - 35,490 at ACE of Brussels and €10,403 - 28,322 at British Junior Academy of Brussels - Prep and Senior Campus, which puts ACE of Brussels roughly 28% higher. ACE of Brussels takes pupils from 3 to 18, and British Junior Academy of Brussels - Prep and Senior Campus from 9 to 18.
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ACE of Brussels
Brussels, Belgium
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British Junior Academy of Brussels - Prep and Senior Campus
Brussels, Belgium
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year €13,999 - 35,490 | Fees / year €10,403 - 28,322 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 9 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational, Online/Hybrid | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels | Curriculum IB (DP), British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE |
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Pupils
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Pupils — | Pupils — |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size — |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened — | Opened 1992 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location Auderghem, Brussels-Capital Region, Belgium. ACE of BRUSSELS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL is located in a château in Auderghem, near NATO and EU institutions. Trams and buses service both ends of the road, and many students walk to the school. Address: Drève du Prieuré 19, Auderghem, Bruxelles 1160. | Location BJAB operates from two campuses in Brussels: the Lower School at 83 Boulevard Saint Michel, 1040 Etterbeek, and the Upper School at 101 Boulevard Louis Schmidt, 1040 Etterbeek. The two sites are in Etterbeek and are within a five-minute walk of each other. The school lies in the European Quarter, within easy reach of the European Commission, embassies, NATO and other business districts. Being located in Etterbeek, minutes away from central Brussels, the campuses are well situated for local transport and access. |
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Stages
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Stages Junior School and Senior School (ages 3–19). | Stages Early Years; Pre-Prep; Prep and Senior. |
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School type
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School type Private Cambridge International School | School type International English-speaking school in Brussels. Bespoke education in a nurturing environment for children from around the world. BJAB offers a British-style education. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix Pupils come from many nationalities and speak over 40 languages. The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for pupils not yet fluent in English. BJAB thrives on its diverse community. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support ACE Rising (Reception–Year 6) with a 2:3 adult-to-child ratio; ACE Plus for Senior Students; ACE Connect for ages 3–11 with a 2:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Each child has an Individual Education Plan. Services include occupational therapy, speech therapy, and related supports. | Additional learning support English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided for pupils not yet fluent in English. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation Belgium | Country affiliation Belgium. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure Lower School (PreKindergarten–Year 4) starts around 8:00 and finishes between 12:00 (half day) and 3:30 (full day); Garderie is available until 6:00 pm. Years 5–11 start around 8:00–8:20 and finish around 3:45–4:00, with Garderie again available until 6:00 pm; Wednesdays have different collection times. A sample Day at Prep shows a typical timetable with classes through the afternoon and a 4:00 pm dismissal. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details — | Bus service details — |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application fee - One-time application fee: EUR 750. Applications are not processed until this fee is paid. The application fee is non-refundable except where the school is unable to offer a place (in which case it will be refunded). Tuition fees by programme / year group (annual figures and inferred per-term amounts) - ACE START (N1, N2 — ages 3–4) - Full (standard): EUR 27,750 per year. Per term (calculated as the annual fee divided equally into three terms): EUR 9,250.00 per term (derived value). - Reduced (self-funding): EUR 13,999 per year. Per term (derived): EUR 4,666.33 per term. - JUNIORS (Reception to Year 6) - Full (standard): EUR 33,210 per year. Per term (derived): EUR 11,070.00 per term. - Reduced (self-funding): EUR 17,568 per year. Per term (derived): EUR 5,856.00 per term. - SENIORS (Year 7 to AS/A level) - Full (standard): EUR 35,490 per year. Per term (derived): EUR 11,830.00 per term. - Reduced (self-funding): EUR 22,040 per year. Per term (derived): EUR 7,346.67 per term. - ACE RISING (specialist Reception–Year 6 provision) - Full: EUR 50,011 per year. Per term (derived): EUR 16,670.33 per term. - ACE PLUS (specialist senior provision) - Full: EUR 52,490 per year. Per term (derived): EUR 17,496.67 per term. - ACE CONNECT (intensive learning support provision) - Full: EUR 52,490 per year. Per term (derived): EUR 17,496.67 per term. (Per-term amounts above are calculated by dividing the published annual fee by three and are presented as derived values for term-level display.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices for school fees are issued on 1 May (or immediately after that date) for the coming school year. Payment is due in full or a payment plan must be agreed no later than 15 days after the invoice date. Acceptance of an offered place requires payment within 30 days of receipt of the invoice. Each invoice must be paid in full on or before 15 days of the date indicated on the invoice unless a payment plan is agreed. - Preferred payment methods: online payment or electronic bank transfer to the school's bank account. Any bank charges incurred are payable by the payer. Supplemental charges and additional-service invoices are issued separately and must be paid by electronic transfer. - Late or defaulted payments incur interest at 2% per month on the unpaid balance and a fixed administration indemnity of EUR 125 per unpaid invoice. The school reserves the right to withhold reports or refuse attendance while fees or supplemental charges remain unpaid. Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed among the school's fee items and no boarding fee schedule is published. The school operates as a day provision; boarding fees are not applicable. Other costs and additional fees - Garderie (childcare) is charged at EUR 12 per hour. Lunches, snacks, individual music/instrumental/language lessons, examination fees, Cambridge International–related costs, learning support services, uniform (optional school sweatshirts/hoodies available via the school office), trips and extra-curricular activities are not included in the published tuition fees and are invoiced separately as applicable. - Examination fees: private-candidate Cambridge/IGCSE/AS/A-level examination entries are charged per subject; published per-subject examination fees for private entries include an example rate of EUR 300 per subject (exam fees are invoiced separately and are non‑refundable except where allowed by the examination board). - Additional specialist services and therapy fees: examples published by the school include a Sensory Profile service at EUR 50 and sensory-room sessions from EUR 25 for 45 minutes. These and other specialist services are charged separately. Refunds, withdrawals and cancellations (fee consequences) - The application fee is non-refundable unless the school is unable to offer a place, in which case it will be refunded. - Annual re-enrolment is automatic unless the school's Notification of Withdrawal form is submitted by the required deadline. Failing to submit the required notification by the stated date leads to automatic renewal of the school-fees contract for the next school year. - If a student is withdrawn and the school receives the Notification of Withdrawal on or before 31 October for a student leaving on or before 31 January, 25% of the annual fee will be reimbursed. No refund is due if Notification of Withdrawal is received after 31 October even if the child leaves before 31 January. If the student leaves on 1 February or later, no reimbursement of fees is made. Parents remain liable for fees as stated in any agreed payment plan. Final reports and documentation are withheld until all outstanding fees are paid. - Examination entries and examination fees are subject to the examination board's refund rules; Cambridge does not refund examination fees except in cases supported by approved medical evidence. Summary of payment methods and charges to note - One-time application fee: EUR 750 (non-refundable except where no place is offered). - Annual tuition: see programme-specific annual figures above; per-term figures shown are derived by equal division into three terms. - Childcare (garderie): EUR 12 per hour. - Exam entries, specialist services, lunches, music lessons, trips and uniforms are additional and invoiced separately; example prices: IGCSE exam subject EUR 300, Sensory Profile EUR 50, sensory-room session from EUR 25. - Invoicing occurs on 1 May (or immediately after); payment due in full or a payment plan agreed within 15 days of the invoice date; preferred payment by online or electronic bank transfer; late-payment interest 2% per month and EUR 125 administration fee for unpaid invoices. | Fee details *Application and one-time fees* - Registration fee (first child): EUR 500, payable upon enrolment and non-refundable. - Sibling registration fee (each subsequent child): EUR 250, payable upon enrolment and non-refundable. - Enrolment deposit: EUR 500, payable upon enrolment and fully refundable on departure provided there are no outstanding charges; any outstanding charges (for example damaged library books) will be deducted from the deposit. In exceptional circumstances the deposit may be withheld if written notice of departure is not provided within the required notice period. *Tuition fees by year group (full year totals and three-instalment schedule — academic year 2025–2026)* - Full‑year tuition (total payable): - Kindergarten (half day): EUR 10,403. - Kindergarten (full day): EUR 17,800. - Reception class: EUR 18,780. - Years 1 and 2: EUR 21,795. - Years 3, 4, 5 and 6: EUR 24,197. - Years 7 and 8: EUR 26,777. - Years 9, 10 and 11: EUR 28,322. - Three-instalment payment schedule (instalment dates and proportions for the full year total): - 1 May 2025 — 20% of the total. - 1 July 2025 — 40% of the total. - 1 January 2026 — 40% of the total. - Instalment amounts by year group (three instalments shown in the order 20% | 40% | 40%): - Kindergarten (half day): EUR 2,081 | EUR 4,161 | EUR 4,161. - Kindergarten (full day): EUR 3,560 | EUR 7,120 | EUR 7,120. - Reception class: EUR 3,756 | EUR 7,512 | EUR 7,512. - Years 1 and 2: EUR 4,359 | EUR 8,718 | EUR 8,718. - Years 3–6: EUR 4,839 | EUR 9,679 | EUR 9,679. - Years 7 and 8: EUR 5,355 | EUR 10,711 | EUR 10,711. - Years 9–11: EUR 5,664 | EUR 11,329 | EUR 11,329. *Billing schedule and payment terms* - When an employer/company is paying, tuition fees are payable for the whole school year. For parents paying privately, fees can be paid in the three instalments shown above. Monthly payments may be arranged only by request and at the discretion of the Headteacher. Pupils entering mid‑year receive a pro‑rata invoice before entry; payment is required within two weeks of invoicing. No student may be admitted or remain at the school unless payment arrangements have been made. Parents remain responsible for total sums due regardless of any employer subsidy. *Boarding fees* - Boarding is not applicable. The British Junior Academy of Brussels is a day school and does not operate boarding facilities. *Other costs and routine charges* - Annual residential week: An additional charge is applied for participation in the annual residential week for pupils in Years 2–11. - Duke of Edinburgh and Round Square: Additional charges apply from Year 9 to cover participation in the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme and Round Square activities. - Public examination fees: Standard charges levied by examination boards for public examinations are passed on to parents (for example Year 9 Cambridge Checkpoints and Year 11 Cambridge IGCSE). - Included within tuition: School fees cover books, use of school IT equipment up to Year 9, sports courses, swimming expenses and day visits. From Year 10 a Bring Your Own Device policy applies (device cost is borne by the family). - Uniform: Uniform must be purchased from the school supplier (Trutex) using the school code; standard home delivery is EUR 10 (free for orders over EUR 150) and returns are accepted provided items are unused and returned within 60 days. Refunds on returned items may take up to 14 days to process. *Refund information and departure notice* - Enrolment deposit refund: The enrolment deposit (EUR 500) is fully refundable on departure provided there are no outstanding charges; outstanding charges will be deducted from the deposit. - Registration fee: Non‑refundable once paid. - Departure notice period: The school requires 90 days written notice of a pupils departure. In the absence of 90 days written notice, three months fees will be payable. Specific notice cut‑off dates are applied around term end dates. *Fee payment options* - Credit and debit card payments: Card transactions (credit/debit) are processed using third‑party payment processors; the school does not itself store card account information. - Invoicing and payment timing: Invoices are issued according to the billing schedule described above and must be paid within the stated terms; parents pay the total sums due whether or not an employer contributes. Monthly payment plans are available only by request and at the Headteachers discretion. *Notes for parents on variable costs* - Expect additional, itemised charges beyond the published tuition where the school passes on third‑party costs (residential trips, award schemes, public examination fees). Day trips, books and most educational resources are included in the tuition. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement ACE of Brussels does not have a uniform. There is a Dress Code; sweatshirts and hoodies may be purchased through the school office. Clothing should be modest, clean, tidy and respectful. | Uniform requirement The full uniform is compulsory from Reception onwards; it includes dark blue or black shoes. The uniform can be purchased online from Trutex using BJAB's code LEA000151TF; delivery to the school is free when the school is open. |
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Food options
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Food options Lunches and snacks are provided; a lunch order form is available. | Food options BJAB provides a hot lunch service on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, with Wednesdays served as a cold lunch. Packed lunches are permitted; the school is nut-free; monthly menus are available on the Parents Portal. |
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House system
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House system — | House system There are four houses at BJAB: Montgomery, Hepburn, Schuman and Cavell. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership — | Governance and ownership BJAB is privately owned by proprietor Ms Patricia De Maertelaere. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details ACE of Brussels uses the Cambridge International Curriculum for students from age 3 to 19 and is a Cambridge Assessment International Education registered school and Cambridge Examination Centre, offering iGCSE, AS and A‑Level examinations. ACE Ascend Online School provides Cambridge International online courses with a flexible timetable and the option to mix IGCSE, AS and A‑Levels. | Curriculum details BJAB uses a responsive, future-focused curriculum designed to prepare pupils with the skills needed in a dynamic world. Literacy is developed through project-based learning, STEAM activities, and digital education to enhance problem-solving and creativity in real-world contexts. The curriculum is embedded with digital literacy from Early Years, with a coding progression from game-based learning in Early Years to block-based coding in Key Stage 1, and then to text-based coding and robotics in Key Stage 2. CENTURY provides personalized learning pathways from Year 3, with dashboards that help teachers tailor next steps. The school emphasises safe online practices and an ethical approach to technology, delivering cross-curricular projects and a strong focus on adapting to accelerating change. The overall aim is to equip students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to thrive in the digital landscape of the future. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio ACE Rising has a ratio of 2 adults to 3 students for Reception–Year 6; ACE Connect has a teacher‑to‑student ratio of 2:1. | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results BJAB uses a mix of teacher assessment and standardised testing to track progress and attainment, aiming for above age-related expectations (standardised scores of 110+). The Independent School Inspectorate rated BJAB as Excellent in all categories in 2019, and ISI accreditation is reviewed on a three-year cycle; the latest ISI report published in 2025 confirms continued high standards. In 2022, the median standardised scores in Mathematics and English were 118 and 113 respectively, indicating performance above expectations; data from 2022-23 and checkpoint data also show strong results. |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression — | Higher education progression BJAB offers a secondary program that includes Cambridge IGCSE in Years 10-11 and, from Years 12-13, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Pupils have progressed to prestigious schools and universities worldwide, including Eton College, Thomas's Battersea, St Paul's Girls' School and others; the curriculum supports success in environments ranging from IB and Cambridge to the Belgian school system. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented ACE Rising, ACE Plus and ACE Connect provide personalised learning with Individual Education Plans; ACE Connect offers a dedicated 3–11 learning space with a 2:1 teacher‑to‑student ratio and ongoing therapies (speech, occupational, music) to support diverse learning needs. | Gifted and talented BJAB has a Challenge for All policy to provide challenge for higher attaining and more able learners. Higher attainers and more able pupils are defined by attainment data, and provision is tracked through baseline, mid-year and end-of-year assessments; Century AI is used to identify gaps and tailor pre- and post-learning tasks to extend learning. |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning The school develops character as well as academics. ACE RISING, ACE PLUS and ACE CONNECT are led by the Head of Inclusion with specialists who provide occupational therapy, speech therapy and more. Each child on ACE RISING and ACE PLUS has an Individual Education Plan and follows their own curriculum at their own pace. ACE CONNECT is an intensive program for 3- to 11-year-olds with a 2:1 teacher-to-student ratio and its own dedicated classroom. ACE CONNECT includes speech therapy, occupational therapy and music therapy, and provides testing and diagnosis and other professional support to promote inclusion. A range of sensory and wellbeing facilities is available, including the ACE spACE sensory room, Listening Program, intake sensory profile, and Life Coach services, with additional support like speech and occupational therapy available on request. | Social & emotional learning The school has a pastoral care program that aims to create a safe and secure environment where children become positive, responsible and increasingly independent members of the school community. The focus on positive reinforcement of good behaviour promotes a supportive and caring community, where everyone feels happy, safe and secure. The School Council and Student Parliament enable pupil voice in decision-making and events, with Head Pupils and Deputy Head Pupils serving as role models and leaders. Houses and House Captains promote teamwork, leadership and community involvement through projects, competitions and rewards. Values Education is woven through BJAB life, with monthly values introduced in assemblies and reflected in school activities to develop social, moral and cultural understanding. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) ACE RISING, ACE PLUS and ACE CONNECT provide Individual Education Plans for each child. Each child is supported to study at their own pace with the appropriate accommodations. ACE CONNECT provides a 2:1 teacher-to-student ratio and a dedicated classroom to support learning. The programs offer Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Music Therapy, as well as Testing and Diagnosis, to identify needs and plan interventions. ACE CONNECT enables inclusion by helping students join mainstream activities where possible, with tailored supports in a dedicated classroom. | Special educational needs (SEN) BJAB supports a small number of pupils with Special Educational Needs and can recommend external consultants to support education. Trained Learning Support Assistants provide targeted help to bridge gaps in learning, with the possibility of 1:1 support discussed during admissions. The school aims to be inclusive and to remove barriers to participation so that all pupils can access the curriculum. EAL provision is available within the same policy framework to support pupils with limited or no English. The school emphasises collaboration with families and flexibility in meeting individual needs. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language ACE is an English-speaking school community. The Junior School curriculum includes English as a subject, with French also taught as a subject. Cambridge Primary starts learners on an English-based curriculum and includes English and French among its listed subjects. The school presents itself as English-speaking in its community description and delivers Cambridge International Curriculum in English across primary and secondary levels. | English as an additional language The school has a diverse community with pupils speaking over 40 languages and provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for pupils not yet familiar with English. The admissions process assesses English language ability, and a tailored EAL programme is offered to help pupils access the BJAB curriculum. EAL provision typically includes group timetabled lessons focused on developing English with a specialist teacher, sometimes in place of French lessons, while subject lessons are designed to remain accessible. BJAB's English language provision is delivered by UK-qualified teachers who support language development across the curriculum. The school's inclusive approach helps pupils progress in English while continuing to participate in core subjects. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing The school provides wellbeing support through its allied services, including Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Music Therapy. A sensory room (ACE spACE) is available to support emotional and sensory regulation. A Listening Program and Intake Sensory Profile are available as part of support services. Life Coach services are available to assist students with wellbeing and personal development. Bonkers, the school dog, contributes to the supportive and inclusive environment. | Mental wellbeing Pastoral care aims to create a safe, secure environment and to help children become positive, responsible and increasingly independent. A focus on positive behaviour reinforces a supportive and caring community where pupils feel happy and safe. Values education supports social and moral development and fosters belonging, respect and kindness. The leadership opportunities, such as the School Council, Head Pupils, and House Captains, contribute to wellbeing by promoting engagement, responsibility and peer support. A monthly values program guides assemblies and activities, supporting emotional and social growth. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding — | Safeguarding The safeguarding policy confirms BJAB's commitment to safeguarding and promoting pupils' welfare, with all staff and volunteers required to act on concerns. The Designated Safeguarding Lead coordinates referrals, works with external agencies and ensures staff training and awareness. The policy establishes safeguarding roles, responsibilities and procedures, including annual reviews and contact details for the DSL and Deputy DSL. It references Keeping Children Safe in Education 2024 and Belgian legal requirements. A Designated Safeguarding Governor oversees safeguarding, with ongoing liaison with the Board and external partners. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview ACE of BRUSSELS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL is set in Auderghem in a château. The Junior School is housed in the Château and the Senior School is in a separate, modern building on the same grounds. The campus is in a leafy area near EU institutions, with tram and bus links at both ends of the road, and many students walk to school. It is a family-centered, inclusive, English-speaking international community. The school uses Cambridge International Curriculum for ages 3–19 and operates a Cambridge Examinations Centre for IGCSE, AS and A‑Levels. | Facilities overview The school operates across two campuses, Boulevard Saint Michel (BSM) and Boulevard Louis Schmidt (BLS), within a five-minute walk of each other. Classrooms are modern and well-equipped, with a state-of-the-art smartboard in every room. Digital learning is central: iPads are used from Year 1, personal iPads from Year 3, and Microsoft 365 Education is the hub for materials and homework. BJAB has partnered with CENTURY to generate personalized learning pathways from Year 3, with data dashboards for teachers to tailor instruction. Beebots, Lego Robotics and Strawbees support hands-on STEAM learning, and outdoor learning is a core element with forest trips each term and use of Cinquantenaire Park facilities. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities — | Sports facilities The school has access to nearby sports facilities including swimming, golf, and tennis. Regular use of Cinquantenaire Park's outdoor facilities supports sport and PE activities. Regular inter-school fixtures are organized, enabling students to compete against peers from around Belgium. Residential trips include sports tours. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities Project Based Learning guides mathematics, literacy, sciences, languages and technology across ages 3–19. The school uses the Cambridge International Curriculum and is registered with Cambridge Assessment International Education. It is a Cambridge Examination Centre for IGCSEs, AS and A Levels. | Academic facilities Modern, well-equipped classrooms support creativity and concentration. State-of-the-art smartboards are in every classroom. iPads are integrated from Year 1, with personal iPads from Year 3, and Microsoft 365 Education is the hub for materials and homework. Beebots, Lego Robotics and Strawbees provide hands-on STEAM learning in the curriculum. CENTURY AI generates personalized learning pathways from Year 3, with dashboards to tailor instruction. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Clubs vary by term and are available to all students. Examples include Rock School, Boys Football Club, Girls Football Academy, Running Club, Computer Club, Dungeons and Dragons and Piano. Garderie (after-school care) is available from 08:00 until 18:00, with Wednesday sessions 12:30–18:00; if a club is canceled with less than 24 hours' notice, Garderie is offered free for the duration. | Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities include Arts and Crafts, Chess, Coding, Debating, Drama, Eco Club, Fitness, French Conversation & Games, Football, Guitar, Gymbaroo, Hockey, Homework Club, Karate, Netball, Photography, Piano, Projects, Scottish Dancing, Ukulele, Violin and Yoga. Not every activity is offered each term. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History — | History BJAB was acquired in 1992 by proprietor Ms Patricia De Maertelaere, with support from a group of parents seeking a high-quality British-style education in Brussels. It opened with a handful of students and quickly grew in size and reputation. In 2005 Marlowe House was acquired, and in 2019 BJAB opened its first Year 7 section and earned an excellent ISI inspection. A renovated building on Boulevard Louis Schmidt was inaugurated in 2020 to support the growing secondary section, and from 2023 BJAB added a third building for a Senior School, with Year 9–11 cohorts and plans for an IB Diploma launch in September 2026; first graduates are expected in June 2028. |
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Community
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Community ACE of BRUSSELS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL is a family-centred, international, inclusive, English-speaking school community in Brussels, Belgium. The community focuses on developing character as well as academics. ACE Junior School is housed in the Château and ACE Senior School is in its own modern building, set in the school's grounds. A partnership between school and family is the cornerstone of the ACE community. | Community BJAB thrives on its diverse, international community. The school has a warm, supportive family atmosphere with strong relationships between pupils, parents and teaching staff. Friends of BJAB, the Parent Association, strengthens the BJAB family and hosts events that connect families with staff. Parent Partnership briefing events with the Headteacher and staff, and connected learning apps for Early Years, support ongoing parental involvement and dialogue through regular parent–teacher meetings. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association FACE (Friends of ACE) is our parent-teacher group. The main aim is to provide an additional link between parents and teachers; input and ideas are welcome at all times. FACE organises events and activities to raise funds for extras that benefit our children's education. FACE also organises social events to strengthen ties between the school, parents, teachers, students and the community. FACE is an integral part of our school community. | Parent teacher association Friends of BJAB is the Parent Association that strengthens the BJAB community. Parents participate in events and activities through Friends of BJAB, which fosters a sense of belonging and engagement. The association supports Parent Partnership briefing events with the Headteacher and staff. In the Early Years and Pre-Prep, connected learning apps allow parents to celebrate their child's achievements and stay informed. Regular parent–teacher meetings enable open dialogue about each child's school life. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual Rock School offers private guitar lessons (electric, acoustic and bass) and ensemble-based music activities. Theory lessons accompany Rock School, and ABRSM theory examinations prepare students for music theory assessments. Live shows and jam sessions provide performance opportunities and hands-on collaboration in music. | Academic & intellectual BJAB offers coding, debates and projects as part of its co-curricular activities, extending learning beyond the regular curriculum. In Prep, learning includes project-based work in Computing, Design Technology, Geography and History to connect classroom topics with real-world contexts. The curriculum policy notes enrichment through a diverse programme of curricular and cross-curricular activities, including intellectual, creative and sporting activities, as essential to the curriculum. In the Senior School, enrichment programmes include engineering, debate and journalism, alongside a personalised learning approach. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Rock School teaches guitar and supports ensemble-based music activities, with live shows and jam sessions that can be recorded for those interested in stage production or sound technology. Piano is offered as a club to develop keyboard skills and performance. | Arts & creative Arts and Crafts and Drama are among BJAB's co-curricular activities. Music options include Guitar, Piano, Violin and Ukulele, with Photography and Scottish Dancing also offered. In the Senior School, vibrant music and drama productions are frequently student-led. Yoga and other creative clubs are available as part of the Arts offerings. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language — | Cultural & language French Conversation & Games is offered as a co-curricular activity. BJAB hosts a diverse community with pupils speaking over 40 languages. Residential trips and international journeys broaden cultural understanding. French is differentiated to meet language needs, with English as an Additional Language (EAL) support available when required. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies A range of clubs are offered, including Boys Football Club, Girls Football Academy, Running Club, Computer Club, Dungeons and Dragons, and Piano. Clubs vary from term to term and are available to all students. | Social & hobbies The co-curricular program includes a wide range of clubs, including Arts and Crafts, Chess, Coding, Debating, Drama, Eco Club, Fitness, French Conversation & Games, Football, Guitar, Gymbaroo, Hockey, Homework Club, Karate, Netball, Photography, Piano, Projects, Scottish Dancing, Ukulele, Violin and Yoga. Clubs change each term and sign-ups occur in the weeks before each term. Clubs help pupils make friends outside their year groups within BJAB's community. After-school activities, including Homework Club, are available to support learning outside the classroom. |
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Community & service
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Community & service — | Community & service Meaningful service opportunities enable BJAB students to engage in volunteer projects and make a positive impact in the local community. Residential trips and international journeys broaden pupils' perspectives and independence. Friends of BJAB and parent partnerships foster community involvement and connections within the BJAB family. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional — | Leadership & professional Leadership roles such as House Captain and the Duke of Edinburgh programme are part of BJAB's co-curricular opportunities. A personalised learning experience and small class sizes support students in taking on leadership roles. Enrichment programmes include activities in engineering, debate and journalism that encourage student leadership and project collaboration. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Garderie is available for all students from 08:00 to the start of school and 15:30–18:00, with Wednesday afternoons from 12:30–18:00 (€10 per hour pro rata). Facilities include ACE spACE sensory room, Listening Program, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Testing and Diagnosis, Support Dog Therapy, Life Coach. Some facilities are available to non-registered users. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Outdoor education is a key component, with forest trips at least once per term and day trips aligned with the curriculum. Regular inter-school fixtures and access to nearby facilities support sport and physical activity, including swimming, golf and tennis. The co-curricular program includes Fitness and Yoga, alongside a variety of sports such as netball, football and hockey. Residential trips for Year 2 and up help develop independence and well-being. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision The school teaches in English. Languages are taught as a subject within the Cambridge Curriculum from ages 3 to 19, and beyond. The Cambridge Curriculum provides IGCSE, AS and A-Level examinations, and the school is a Cambridge International Examination Centre for both registered students and external candidates. | Language provision The core curriculum is taught in English by experienced UK-qualified teachers in Early Years and Pre-Prep. French language lessons are part of the curriculum, with English language support available if needed. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided for pupils not yet familiar with English, with a tailored program that can include group lessons with a specialist teacher, in lieu of some French lessons. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards ISI rated Excellent in 2019 across all categories. |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations Cambridge Assessment International Education – ACE is a registered Cambridge International School, using the Cambridge Curriculum and hosting a Cambridge Examinations Centre for iGCSE, AS, and A-Levels. Cambridge International Online Education – ACE ASCEND is a Cambridge International Online School offering online Cambridge programmes. | Accreditations The school is regularly inspected by the Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) and has Ofsted's British Schools Overseas (BSO) accreditation. It is a member of COBIS and IAPS. The latest ISI report is available (2025). |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions Full time education in Belgium is compulsory from the age of five. The Cambridge Primary Curriculum is for children aged 5 to 11 (Reception to Year 6) at ACE. The ACE academic year runs from 01 Sept to 31 August. The Tuition Fee schedule published on the site is the most recent and accurate version of the current school fees. If you need to withdraw your child from ACE, the information is in ACE of BRUSSELS Terms and Conditions, Section 3, paragraph (e). The application fee is 750€. | Admissions BJAB offers rolling admissions with year‑round entry. Entry begins with a tour and interview with the Headteacher, Mr Retter; tours can be requested via the Enquiry Form, and video conference appointments are available for admission from abroad. After the tour, parents apply formally by submitting the application and medical information forms; the Admissions Officer confirms receipt and may issue a formal offer after agreement with the Headteacher. Some prospective pupils may undertake entrance assessments (these do not determine admission) and pupils may have a trial day. Admission decisions are made by the Headteacher and the Senior Leadership team; spaces are limited and waiting lists may occur. Applications from those requiring 1:1 learning support, financial aid or other special circumstances may take longer. Registration and payment follow the Schedule of Fees: the first invoice covers a 500€ Registration Fee and 500€ Deposit, securing the space; these fees are non-refundable if a place is not taken within the agreed period; further invoices for school fees follow; attendance certificates can be issued for employers. Start Your Journey: enter your child's date of birth to discover when they can start at BJAB. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships — | Scholarships Discretionary financial assistance on school fees is available upon admission. Scholarships and bursaries are available for strong Sixth Form candidates through a Sixth Form assistance programme. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist Spaces are limited and may involve waiting lists. |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
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