Al Hekma International School vs The Bahrain Bayan School

	A Al Hekma International School Manama, Bahrain	T The Bahrain Bayan School Manama, Bahrain
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year BHD 1,589 - 4,392	Fees / year BHD 4,165 - 5,725
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Arabic Curriculum, American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 945	Pupils 1,000
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Arabic
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location AHIS is located on Istqlal Highway in Sanad, Bahrain. The campus sits in a residential area within the Manama metropolitan region, providing convenient access for families living in central Bahrain. The site is accessible by car or taxi and is near main roads and local amenities.	Location The Bahrain Bayan School is located in Isa Town, Bahrain, within the Isa Town Educational District. The main campus address is Building 230, Road 4111, Isa Town 841. A separate preschool campus, Dr. May Bint Sulaiman Al Otaibi Preschool, is on the same Road 4111 in Isa Town 841. The Isa Town site is accessible via Bahrain's main thoroughfares and is near other educational facilities.
Stages	Stages The school runs from Preschool through Grade 12, with divisions into Kindergarten, Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.	Stages The school serves early years through secondary education, from Nursery to Year 13 (ages roughly 4 to 18). It comprises Preschool, Primary, Middle, and High sections.
School type	School type AHIS is a co-educational international day school. It does not offer boarding facilities; the campus operates as a day school.	School type The school is a co-educational, independent, non-profit day school. It does not operate boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix There are about 26 nationalities represented at AHIS. The most common nationality is Bahraini. Local students account for roughly 55% of the student body, with international students representing about 45%.	Pupil nationality mix Approximately 98% of Bayan students come from Bahrain and neighboring GCC countries, with about 2% classified as international/non-GCC students. This results in a predominantly local/GCC student body with a small international minority.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support AHIS offers Gifted & Talented Programs. The Learning Support Team designs an Intervention Education Plan (IEP) for gifted and talented students and provides related academic and enrichment options, including an Advanced Placement program.	Additional learning support Additional Educational Assistance (AEA) provides targeted academic and wellbeing support using a MTSS framework. AEA offers in-class support, small-group intervention, individualized learning plans, and targeted Tier 3 instruction, with placement based on data and regular review. AEA services carry an additional fee.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school operates in Bahrain and is under the authority of the Bahraini Ministry of Education (MOE).	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation; the school is Bahrain-based and operates within the Bahraini education system.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation AHIS does not have a formal religious affiliation listed in its official materials.	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation; the mission emphasizes Islamic values and respect for Arab and Islamic heritage as part of Bayan's identity.
School day structure	School day structure The school day typically runs from around 7:00 AM to about 2:15–2:30 PM, depending on grade level. KG days end around 2:15 PM, while Middle and High School days commonly end around 2:30 PM. Breaks and lunchtime are scheduled per the school calendar.	School day structure The school operates Sunday to Thursday. The school day typically runs from morning into the early afternoon, with common schedules indicating start around 7:00 am and end around 3:00 pm.
Bus service details	Bus service details AHIS Bahrain does not provide a school bus service; transportation is arranged by families or private providers.	Bus service details A school bus service is available. Routes and providers are arranged through the school, with transportation coordinated by the admissions or transport team. Pickup times and areas are planned to accommodate families across Bahrain. Contact the school for current route options and schedules.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & Registration Fees - Application form fee: BD 35 for PS–KG1 and KG2; BD 35 or BD 45 for other grade bands as listed (Application Form: BD 35 or BD 45 depending on grade). - Seat reservation (booking) fee: BD 250 payable upon acceptance of enrollment. Booking/seat reservation fees are payable within five business days of acceptance and are not refundable. . Annual Tuition by Year Group (amounts inclusive of VAT) - PS–KG1: BD 1,589.000. - KG2: BD 1,616.000. - Grade 1–3: BD 2,510.000. - Grade 4–5: BD 2,513.000. - Grade 6: BD 2,524.000. - Grade 7: BD 3,377.000. - Grade 8: BD 3,371.000. - Grade 9: BD 3,432.000. - Grade 10: BD 4,146.000. - Grade 11: BD 4,256.000. - Grade 12: BD 4,392.000. What is included in the tuition - Tuition includes one set of sports uniform, one set of standard uniform, books and rental books, notebooks and the yearbook. The published tuition amounts also indicate the seat reservation amount as part of the fee structure. Per-term / Installment amounts (calculated from the annual tuition figures) - The following installment figures are calculated from the annual tuition amounts using the school's published payment splits (50/50 or 50/25/25). These numbers are simple arithmetic based on the published annual fees and the published payment schedule: - PS–KG1 (BD 1,589.000): 50% = BD 794.50; 25% = BD 397.25. - KG2 (BD 1,616.000): 50% = BD 808.00; 25% = BD 404.00. - G1–G3 (BD 2,510.000): 50% = BD 1,255.00; 25% = BD 627.50. - G4–G5 (BD 2,513.000): 50% = BD 1,256.50; 25% = BD 628.25. - G6 (BD 2,524.000): 50% = BD 1,262.00; 25% = BD 631.00. - G7 (BD 3,377.000): 50% = BD 1,688.50; 25% = BD 844.25. - G8 (BD 3,371.000): 50% = BD 1,685.50; 25% = BD 842.75. - G9 (BD 3,432.000): 50% = BD 1,716.00; 25% = BD 858.00. - G10 (BD 4,146.000): 50% = BD 2,073.00; 25% = BD 1,036.50. - G11 (BD 4,256.000): 50% = BD 2,128.00; 25% = BD 1,064.00. - G12 (BD 4,392.000): 50% = BD 2,196.00; 25% = BD 1,098.00. Billing schedule and payment terms - Payment schedule options: - One full payment (due at the start of the year in August). - Two installments: 50% in August and 50% on January 1. - Three payments: 50% in August, 25% on January 1, and 25% on March 1. - If a student is admitted in the first half of a semester, a full semester's fees are charged; if admitted in the second semester, half of the annual fees are charged. - Booking/seat reservation fee is payable upon acceptance and must be paid within five business days or registration will be cancelled; registration, testing and interview fees are non-refundable. Discounts, if granted, will be revoked if parents are more than two weeks late on the due date. A late-payment fine of 7.5% applies and additional penalties may be added for further delay; a returned/bounced cheque carries an added fine. Failure to pay can result in withholding of certificates, transcripts and denial of examination or graduation participation. Boarding fees - No boarding fees are listed and boarding is not presented as an offered fee category. There are no published boarding charges on the fee schedule. Other costs and additional fees - Books and uniforms (one set each) are included in the tuition, but the policy notes that books, uniforms, tablets, transportation and any additional fees are not refundable once paid. The published schedule also references registration, testing and interview fees as separate charges and non-refundable. Any additional services (transportation, extra devices, additional uniform sets, extra-curricular fees if charged separately) would be considered extra and are not covered in the base tuition amounts. Siblings discount - Sibling discount policy: first eldest and second child pay full tuition; third younger child receives a 10% discount; fourth younger child and subsequent children receive a 15% discount. Note: the sibling discount does not apply to PS–KG2 grade levels. Discounts cannot be combined and may be revoked for late payment. Refund information - Tuition fees are non-refundable whether the student attended or not. If a student withdraws, one full semester's notice is required or a full semester's fees become payable. Registration, testing, interview and booking/seat reservation fees are non-refundable. Books, uniforms, tablets, transportation and any additional fees are not refundable. If registration is cancelled due to missing required documents, paid fees are not refunded. If the school terminates registration for discipline or rule breaches, fees are not refundable. Fees paid will not be refunded even if the student did not start or attend. Cancellation of enrollment must be submitted in writing where required by the school policy. Accepted payment methods and banking details - In-branch payment at BBK (submit receipt to accounts or admissions) or bank transfer to the BBK account: Account Number 100000087325; Account Name: Al Hekma International School S P C; IBAN: BH35BBKU00100000087325; SWIFT: BBKUBHBM. - In-branch payment at AUB (submit receipt to accounts or admissions) or bank transfer to the AUB account: Account Number 0016-270218-001; Account Name: AL Hekma International School; IBAN: BH65AUBB00016270218001; SWIFT: AUBBBHBM. - Cash or cheque payments accepted at the school (school office hours noted). Post-dated cheques are accepted only in accordance with the published payment terms and due dates. Receipts should be submitted to the accounts or admissions office. Credit card payment is not listed as a published payment method in the fee schedule. Notes on enforcement and penalties - A two-week delay on payment can result in blocking of the student's name in the Ministry of Education system and potential legal action. Discounts may be revoked if payments are more than two weeks late. No certificates, transcripts or graduation participation will be issued if fees remain unpaid. Summary of non-refundable items - Registration/testing/interview fees, booking/seat reservation fee, tuition once paid, books, uniforms, tablets, transportation and additional fees are non-refundable under the school policy. A written notice and one full semester's notice are required for withdrawal to avoid further charges.	Fee details Application & Enrollment Fees - Standard application fee: BHD 50 (payable on submission of the application). - Late application fee (preschool & primary, when applicable): BHD 100 (payable on application). - Enrollment fee (one-time, for preschool & primary, payable upon acceptance): BHD 1,350. - Seat reservation / first tuition installment due on acceptance: BHD 800 (listed as the First Installment / deposit). Tuition fees — instalments and amounts (per the published billing schedule) Fees are billed in four instalments. The instalment amounts and settlement windows published for the current academic cycle are: - First instalment (Deposit): BHD 800 — settlement period shown in March. - Second instalment (not including Educational Resources & Materials fees): BHD 800 — settlement period shown in May. - Third instalment: BHD 1,500 — settlement period shown in September. - Fourth instalment (amount varies by grade) — settlement period shown in January. Fourth-installment amounts by grade group are: - KG1 & KG2: BHD 1,065. - Grades 1 to 5: BHD 1,490. - Grades 6 to 9: BHD 2,015. - Grades 10 to 12: BHD 2,625. - Annual tuition totals (sum of the four instalments) by year group: - KG1 & KG2: BHD 4,165 per year (800 + 800 + 1,500 + 1,065). - Grades 1–5: BHD 4,590 per year (800 + 800 + 1,500 + 1,490). - Grades 6–9: BHD 5,115 per year (800 + 800 + 1,500 + 2,015). - Grades 10–12: BHD 5,725 per year (800 + 800 + 1,500 + 2,625). Note: the published instalment schedule explicitly states the annual tuition figures do not include Educational Resources & Materials (ERM) fees, Tablet Device Program charges, after‑school activity fees, graduation fees and similar charges. Billing schedule and payment terms - Instalment settlement windows are published with each instalment (March, May, September, January windows are shown for the published schedule). Late payment attracts an administrative charge of BHD 10 per month on each pending instalment. - The second instalment is shown as exclusive of ERM (Educational Resources & Materials) fees; ERM and similar ancillary charges are billed separately. Boarding fees - The Bahrain Bayan School operates as a day school; no boarding programme or boarding fees are published. (Boarding is not applicable.) Other costs and recurring / optional charges - Educational Resources & Materials (ERM) bookstore items (textbooks and related materials) are charged separately for applicable grades and are not included in the tuition instalments. The school operates an ERM bookstore for textbook distribution. - Tablet Device Program, after‑school activities, graduation fees and other programme-specific charges are additional to tuition and billed separately. The tuition instalment schedule notes those charges are excluded from the instalment totals. - Additional Educational Assistance (AEA) programme fees: when a student is enrolled in AEA the AEA fees are payable in advance for the full semester and are charged in addition to enrollment and tuition fees. - Uniforms are supplied through the school's Uniform Shop (shop located next to Gate 4). Uniform items and the uniform policy are published; specific uniform prices are not listed on the published uniform pages. - Transport (school bus) arrangements are managed separately; bus service fees are set by the bus provider and paid directly to that provider (fees depend on route/area). Bus fees are not included in the tuition instalments. Refund information (summary of published refund policy) - Deposit / first instalment and non‑refundable amounts: the school's published refund policy sets rules for refunds on withdrawal. It states the deposit / first instalment amount is not refundable; a portion (specified in the policy) may be transferable to a sibling when withdrawal is notified before school starts. - Withdrawal before the end of September: the policy states a partial refund (the policy specifies 50% of the second two instalments in the published policy) may apply if official withdrawal is received before the end of September. - Withdrawal after September: the policy states that when withdrawal is received after September, paid amounts will not be refunded and outstanding tuition for the year becomes payable. - Non‑refundable items: application fees, one‑time enrollment fees and other specific fees (Educational Resources & Materials, Tablet Device, ID card fees, etc.) are listed as non‑refundable in the published refund policy. Fee payment options and instructions - Online payment: invoices and tuition instalments can be paid online via the school's payment portal / parent app; the school's online portal and parent mobile app are used to view and pay invoices. The application/registration flow shows credit and debit card payment options are accepted for application payments. - Finance Department / in‑school payments: payment may also be made through the Finance Department; contact numbers for the Finance Department are published for fee enquiries. Key administrative notes - Late payment penalties: an administrative charge of BHD 10 per month is applied to overdue instalments as published in the fee schedule. - AEA or other programme fees are payable up front where applicable. (For specific invoice-level payment methods or any bank transfer details, the school Finance Department provides the payment instructions on invoices and the online portal.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements AHIS does not offer boarding; it operates as a day school for Preschool through Grade 12. The International Baccalaureate profile lists Boarding facilities as DAY, indicating there are no on-site boarding options.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are provided to all students upon registration. Only school-provided uniforms are allowed, and uniforms are worn according to the weekly schedule; sports uniforms are permitted only on designated sports days.	Uniform requirement Uniform is compulsory. The standard uniform consists of a white shirt with the BBS seal, a forest green tie, and the appropriate bottom (skirt or trousers) for the student's year group. Shoes must be closed; belts may be black, brown, or white; headscarves should be plain white, forest green, grey, or black; makeup is not allowed.
Food options	Food options The catering and food page indicates a fully supervised cafeteria for students in grades 1 and above, offering hot meals, drinks, salads, and sandwiches; students may also bring lunch from home. Payments can be made by cash or via a cashless system, and the campus is nut-free to accommodate allergies.	Food options The on-site canteen serves meals and snacks. A menu from the 2017–2018 period shows breakfast options including American and English breakfasts, items such as omelettes and shakshouka, and a variety of sandwiches/wraps for recess and lunch; the canteen is open Sundays through Thursdays for recess and lunch.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership AHIS is governed by a Board of Directors that is appointed by the Managing Director to oversee operations, long-range planning, budgeting, and policy, including monitoring the School Wide Improvement Plan. The school operates under the Bahraini Ministry of Education and is privately founded, with Dr. Mona Rashid AlZayani listed as President & Founder.	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Trustees, with the founder Dr. May bint Sulaiman Al Otaibi listed as Executive Chair and other trustees including Sh. Aseel Al Khalifa, Sh. Altaf Al Khalifa, Sh. Mohamed Al Khalifa, and Yara Al Mulla. Bahraini Bayan School is described as an independent, non-profit, co-educational bilingual school (K–12) with private ownership.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details AHIS Bahrain serves Preschool through Grade 12 and offers an American curriculum alongside the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) for the high school years. AHIS is an IB World School authorized to deliver the Diploma Programme and is accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) and Cognia. The curriculum provides instruction in English and Arabic and covers a broad set of subjects, with additional emphasis on ICT, arts, health, and physical education. In high school, students have access to the American diploma pathway and the IB Diploma, with preparation for standardized tests such as SAT, AP, and TOEFL. AHIS also offers Global Programs (Junior Ambassadors Conference, Future Arab Leaders, Model United Nations) and STEM and Service-Learning initiatives as part of its curriculum.	Curriculum details The Bahrain Bayan School provides a bilingual English–Arabic curriculum for students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. In Primary, half of each day is taught in Arabic and half in English, with English, Math, and Science built to the AERO standards, and Arabic instruction aligned with the government syllabus for Social Studies, Religion, and Government; Music, Art, Technology, and Physical Education are also part of the program. Middle School (grades 6–8) maintains bilingual instruction with AERO-aligned English/Math/Science, continues Arabic and government-syllabus subjects, and includes Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Technology and Advisory, with Math offered in standard and higher streams. High School (grades 9–12) is college-preparatory, continues English–Arabic mastery and AERO-aligned courses, and includes Arabic, Citizenship, and Islamic Studies per Ministry of Education requirements; the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is available for grades 11–12, with some students pursuing IB Courses for certificates. Bahrain Bayan School is accredited by the Ministry of Education, the Middle States Association (MSA), and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning AHIS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a values-driven, school-wide approach. The Vision states AHIS aims to foster global citizenship, high self-esteem, low anxiety, and a strong sense of belonging. The school describes its environment as safe and nurturing, with a professional staff supporting students across academic life, activities, and events. The Life Skills program provides SEL-aligned curricula across grades: Kindergarten CARE (Caring, Articulated, Respectful, Engaged); Elementary BEST (Brave, Engaged, Self-confident, Tolerant); Middle School D.A.R.E (Disciplined, Accountable, Reflective, Engaged); High School RE.A.C.H (Responsibility, Engagement, Accountability, Confidence, Honesty). The program emphasizes staff support to meet students' SEL needs throughout the school years.	Social & emotional learning The Bahrain Bayan School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its Counseling Program for K–12, offering Guidance & Wellbeing Lessons in classrooms on friendships, feelings, problem-solving, online safety, and healthy habits, with counselors providing both one-on-one and small-group support and partnering with teachers and families to apply these skills in daily learning.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) AHIS provides a Gifted & Talented Programs (GT) for students with high capability. An Intervention Education Plan (IEP) is designed for Gifted and Talented students by the Learning Support Team. The GT program seeks to engage students through venues for research, problem-solving, leadership, and social-emotional development. For students who are struggling academically, teachers offer remedial classes, tutoring, and access to social workers and counselors, with differentiation and IEP plans to assist learning. AHIS is not described as a separate SEN institution; SEN support is integrated through GT and Learning Support within the school.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school offers Additional Educational Assistance (AEA) using a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS), providing in-class support, small-group intervention, individualized learning plans, and targeted Tier 3 instruction, with placement based on data and the service available for an additional fee; public pages do not describe a dedicated SEN unit.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The language of instruction is English. On-campus Arabic language options can be arranged for interested students through Special Arabic teachers. AHIS operates an American Program and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, with English as the primary language of instruction. Differentiation and an IEP process are used to support diverse learners, including needs related to English as an additional language. The school also notes on-campus Arabic language offerings and an international, multilingual student body as part of its language and EAL approach.	English as an additional language The school maintains a bilingual Arabic–English environment from KG to G12, with instruction delivered in both languages; there is no publicly listed separate EAL program, indicating EAL support is integrated within the bilingual framework rather than a standalone service.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through a safe and nurturing environment; the Vision emphasizes low anxiety and high self-esteem. The school aims to foster belonging and global citizenship as part of wellbeing. The Life Skills program across Kindergarten to High School includes staff dedicated to supporting student wellbeing through a professional team. Affiliations with professional bodies (NESA, ASCD, UNESCO, PTC) indicate ongoing staff development that can support wellbeing. The IB DP candidacy and other global programs promote holistic development that underpins student wellbeing.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed via the Counseling Program's focus on social-emotional wellbeing, including wellness lessons and both individual and group sessions (e.g., anxiety management, social skills) to support resilience and healthy coping strategies.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school does not publicly disclose safeguarding and child protection policies on its site. The Vision describes a safe, nurturing environment with a sense of belonging. The Life Skills program across K-12 emphasizes safety and care as part of its values. The Life Skills page notes a professional staff dedicated to supporting students' well-being. AHIS's affiliations with professional bodies indicate formal professional development and policy alignment that may inform safeguarding practices.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is supported by policies with a designated safeguarding lead, staff background checks, safeguarding training, and escalation of safeguarding allegations in accordance with school procedures.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview AHIS provides modern facilities, including spacious buildings, multimedia classrooms with interactive Smartboards and wireless internet, science labs, music labs, art labs, and computer labs. It has two libraries, meeting and lecture halls, a cafeteria, and a modern theatre; large playgrounds and dedicated sports facilities complement the academic spaces.	Facilities overview The Bahrain Bayan School operates on a self-contained campus in Isa Town that includes pre-school, primary, middle, and high schools, along with administration, a library, and a cafeteria. Al Bayan Hall, a gymnasium/multi-purpose building completed in 2001, houses a 600-seat theatre, two full-size basketball courts, two squash courts, an aerobic dance studio, and a fitness center, with a running track added in 2011. The Preschool building sits on a separate campus, and the Primary School Complex serves Grade 1–5; a Bayan Mosque is also on campus. The AlRomaihi Innovation Hub provides a Maker Space, a robotics lab, a multimedia studio, a sound room, a research center with access to JSTOR, EBSCO, and WorldBook Online, and an extensive digital library. The campus also features science and computer facilities, including three science labs in the secondary building plus a new Science Building with three additional labs and four computer labs (two Mac labs in Primary and two PC labs in Secondary).
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school has a gymnasium, an air-conditioned sports hall, track and field facilities, a soccer field, a tennis court, basketball and volleyball courts, and play areas for children.	Sports facilities The Bayan Hall gymnasium/multi-purpose building includes two full-size basketball courts, two squash courts, an aerobic dance studio, and a fitness center, and it also houses a 600-seat theatre; a running track was added in 2011. There is a football field with artificial grass on campus (installed by 2013).
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include spacious multimedia classrooms with interactive Smartboards and wireless internet, science labs, music labs, art labs, and computer labs, along with two libraries and meeting/lecture halls.	Academic facilities The library system comprises separate Primary and Middle/High School libraries, with the Destiny Library Catalog and the Tumble Books Library for resources. The library is open to Secondary students from 7:15 am to 3:00 pm, with Primary students visiting weekly; librarians support research and curriculum needs. The school operates four computer labs: two Mac labs in Primary (28 iMacs each) and two PC labs in Secondary (26 Windows PCs each). The Secondary building houses Biology, Chemistry, and Physics labs, and a dedicated Robotics Lab; a newer Science Building adds three more science labs.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities AHIS offers a variety of clubs and activities during and after school. Global programs include Junior Ambassadors Conference, Future Arab Leaders, and Model United Nations.	Extra curricular facilities The school supports after-school activities and clubs, including programs advertised under Student Life. The AlRomaihi Innovation Hub provides hands-on maker, robotics (VEX), multimedia, and research opportunities after class, including a Maker Space, a Robotics Lab, a Research Center with JSTOR/EBSCO/WorldBook Online, and a Learning Commons.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History AHIS was founded in 1985 by Dr. Mona Rashid AlZayani, who is listed as President and Founder on the Board of Directors page. The school is governed by a Board of Directors, with Mohanned Al-Anni as Chairman; the board oversees long-range planning, budgeting, and adherence to Ministry of Education directives. AHIS operates as a co-educational international school from Preschool through Grade 12 offering an American and IB diploma, and it operates under the Bahraini Ministry of Education. It holds accreditations from the Middle States Association for Accreditation of Colleges and Schools (MSA), Cognia, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and has affiliations with UNESCO and ALECSO.	History The Bahrain Bayan School (BBS) was established in 1982 by Dr. Sh. May Al Otaibi as an independent, national, co-educational bilingual school serving Kindergarten through Grade 12. In 1986 the school relocated to a larger Isa Town campus to accommodate growing enrollment. The school introduced GCE English and the U.S. high school diploma in 1987–1988 and later gained authorization to offer the International Baccalaureate program. It is governed as an independent, non-profit institution with governance through a Board of Trustees and a General Assembly, and it is accredited and licensed by the Bahrain Ministry of Education, with recognition from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and by the Bahrain Education & Training Quality Authority (BQA) as outstanding. Over the years the campus expanded with notable facilities and initiatives, including the completion of the PTA quarters in 2017 and the Dr. May bint Sulaiman Al Otaibi Preschool building in 2018.
Community	Community AHIS organizes a set of global programs to foster leadership and global engagement, including the Junior Ambassadors Conference, Future Arab Leaders, and Model United Nations, which connect students with local and international issues. AHIS hosts cultural and community events such as the Bahraini Women's Day event Razjia 2, with participation from board members and student councils. The school also runs overseas trips, such as a middle/high school trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, broadening horizons and developing life skills. AHIS offers a variety of clubs and activities during and after school, contributing to well-rounded development.	Community BayMUN is a student-led event established in 2008–2009, now the biggest student event at Bahrain Bayan School and the country's first THIMUN-affiliated MUN. EcoLab 360 won first place in UAE's Zayed Sustainability Prize in 2017, reflecting the school's emphasis on sustainability and project-based learning. The Bin Faqeeh Zakat Al Elm Building, designed by Bayan alumni, houses a library and quiet study zones for middle and high school students. The Bayan community emphasizes a strong home-school partnership, with parents participating in planning committees for the school's strategic plan and accreditation processes and in inaugurating many school events.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association AHIS has a PTA described as a grassroots organization made up of parents and teachers who have a special interest in children, families, and schools. The PTA's mission is to support and speak on behalf of students and youth in the school, in the community, and before governmental bodies and other organizations that make decisions affecting students, and to assist parents in developing the skills they need to raise their children and to encourage parent involvement in the school's activities. AHIS's PTA works to develop the school environment through its objectives, promoting the welfare of all children at home, at school, and in the community, and strengthening the home–school relationship. AHIS has creative and intellectual parents and teachers forming its PTA who work together toward offering the best quality of education in the most convenient educational environment, meeting the highest international standards. The leadership includes Chairperson Inshad Abdullah Johar, Vice Chair Ateqa Taheri, and a broad slate of members such as Donia Ahmed, Dima Nahouli, Shazeema Rasheed, Sabri Ben Trabelsi, and many others, with roles such as Secretary Asmaa Osman and Treasurer Rehab AlBaz.	Parent teacher association The Parent Association (PTA) includes elected members for 2022–2026, with a President, Vice President, and several other members. Its objectives include promoting closer relations between parents, students and the Bayan School administration; representing parents and supporting the school's educational process; cooperating with the school in social, educational and cultural activities during and after school hours; promoting closer relations between the school and other institutions in the country by sponsoring cultural, social, educational and sports activities; and fundraising to help meet school needs. Members are elected every two years, and communications through the school's executive administration guide PTA activities. Main events organized by the PTA include the Bayan Annual Carnival and Grandparents Day. The PTA is accountable to an Executive Committee and participates in planning and accreditation processes, with contact information published on the PTA page for engagement.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual AHIS promotes academic development through a broad range of activities that build written and oral communication in Arabic and English. Throughout the year students participate in research tasks, presentations, field trips, and reading, spelling and writing competitions. AHIS courses include computers, health, art, music, drama, and physical education; these classes are taught by certified staff and designed to enrich students' self-confidence and creativity. Extracurricular programs such as Model United Nations and other global programs supplement classroom learning by developing research, analysis, and presentation skills.	Academic & intellectual The Bahrain Bayan School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for grades 11–12. It requires six subjects drawn from IB course groups, the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) component, and Theory of Knowledge (TOK). The school has been an IB World School since 1993, delivering a university-preparatory curriculum through the IB framework.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Art, music, and drama are part of the core AHIS curriculum and are taught by certified staff. These subjects foster creativity and self-expression and are supported by dedicated facilities. AHIS emphasizes creative development as a component of a well-rounded education.	Arts & creative Arts and creative opportunities include the National Art Honor Society (NAHS) for grades 9–12, which emphasizes art scholarship, service, and community engagement, and Theatre Club that supports drama and stage production. A Guitar Club provides music-making and social interaction, and NAHS activities often involve exhibitions and collaborative art projects.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Bilingual communication in Arabic and English is a focus, with Arabic language included in the curriculum. Programs such as Future Arab Leaders and Model United Nations provide opportunities to develop bilingual communication skills and engage with global communities. The Model United Nations program is linked to UNESCO and emphasizes diplomacy and global understanding.	Cultural & language The school is bilingual, delivering English and Arabic instruction, with 98% of students from Bahrain and neighboring GCC countries. English and Arabic are emphasized equally to develop bilingual leadership and national identity. The Model United Nations (MUN) Club and LAMDA Public Speaking program offer opportunities for language use, debate, and international-cultural engagement.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies There are extensive opportunities to participate in school clubs and student-led activities. The high school profile lists MUN, YLC (Young Leaders Council), BYE (Bahrain Young Entrepreneurs), and Student Council as avenues to develop leadership and social engagement. Model United Nations also provides a forum for teamwork and debate as part of AHIS's global programs.	Social & hobbies After-school activities include Bayan Post, Charity Club, ECOBOOSTERS, Infinity Math Mentors, Press Committee, The Perspective Podcast, and High School Student Council. The programs develop leadership, communication, and teamwork through student-led media, service projects, and clubs across grades 9–12.
Community & service	Community & service The Junior Ambassadors Conference focuses on child rights, citizenship, and health, education, and safety topics. Participants engage with communities and policy discussions to advocate for youth needs. The program links students with broader global citizenship initiatives within AHIS's global programs.	Community & service Community service is integrated into the school ethos, with Grade 6–7 programs emphasizing global thinking with local implementation. Primary School activities include Beach Cleanup; Middle School activities include The Pencil Project; High School activities include Charity Club Donations, reflecting a commitment to social responsibility across the curriculum.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Future Arab Leaders develops leadership and social skills and bilingual communication through experiential simulations and current-events discussions. Model United Nations builds diplomacy, research, policy-writing, and public-speaking abilities. Young Leaders Council and Bahrain Young Entrepreneurs, along with Student Council, provide ongoing leadership and entrepreneurship opportunities.	Leadership & professional Student leadership is fostered through the High School Student Council and other clubs. National Honor Society is by invitation and recognizes scholarship, service, leadership, and character. The MUN Club and NAHS provide leadership roles within diplomacy and the arts, while clubs like Bayan Post cultivate journalistic and professional skills.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Life Skills programs provide age-appropriate modules with names like CARE, BEST, DARE, and REACH to promote values such as caring, bravery, self-confidence, discipline, responsibility, and accountability. AHIS describes a safe, nurturing environment with a dedicated staff supporting students' development across academic life and activities. The program emphasizes wellbeing, organization, and healthy study habits through ongoing guidance.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The athletics program participates in regional leagues and competitions, including MOE leagues and various age-group tournaments in Basketball, Football, Athletics, Cross-Country, Badminton, Table Tennis, Padel, and Tennis. These activities support physical health and teamwork as part of the school's well-being emphasis.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Arabic language is taught as part of the curriculum to develop written and oral communication in Arabic. English language is taught as part of the curriculum to develop written and oral communication in English. The school offers American and IB Diploma Programme options.	Language provision The language of instruction is English, and Arabic is taught as a core language across all divisions. Arabic, Citizenship, and Islamic Studies follow Bahrain MOE requirements. The library maintains separate Arabic and English collections.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching The school provides bilingual education in Arabic and English for Kindergarten through Grade 12.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Preschool uses a dual-language program with instruction alternating between Arabic and English on alternate days. Primary School delivers approximately half the day in Arabic and half in English. In Middle School and High School, instruction is conducted in both languages with balanced Arabic and English components, and the IB Diploma Programme is offered in Grades 11–12.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards The school has received multiple recognitions as an outstanding school from the Bahraini authorities (per BQA accreditation).
Accreditations	Accreditations MSA, Cognia, and IB Diploma Programme; Cognia STEM Certification; MSA Service-Learning Program of Distinction.	Accreditations The Bahrain Bayan School is an independent, non-profit, co-educational bilingual school in Arabic and English serving Kindergarten through 12th grade. It is accredited and licensed by the Bahrain Ministry of Education and holds accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and the Bahrain Education & Training Quality Authority (BQA) as an outstanding school.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1. Submit the application with the required documents. Attach a copy of the student's passport, a copy of the parent's passport, a copy of the residency ID (CPR), a copy of the residency permit in the passport (for expats), the student's vaccination record, the birth certificate, one photo, and transcripts for the past two years. Students applying from outside Bahrain must attest the last year's report card from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Bahrain, then present these documents to the Ministry of Education in Bahrain to receive an equivalency letter. Step 2. Take entrance exams and participate in an interview. Students must sit for entrance exams in English, Arabic, and Math; non-Arabic speaking students are exempted from the Arabic entrance exam. Students must attend an interview to determine eligibility for enrollment. Step 3. Complete placement assessments. AHIS admits students based on policies set by the MOE in Bahrain. Placement assessments are conducted in English, and students who are non-speakers or new to the language are assessed at the beginning of the academic year and placed at the proper academic level. Step 4. Receive an admission decision. Acceptance or rejection of enrollment is at the sole discretion of the admissions committee. Both interviews and entrance exams must be passed to be considered for admission. Step 5. Confirm enrollment and secure a seat. If accepted, a seat booking fee is payable upon acceptance of enrollment and must be paid within 5 business days from notification of acceptance; failure to pay will result in cancellation of registration. Registration, testing, and interview fees are non-refundable even if a student is placed on a waiting list or rejected. Step 6. Complete enrollment formalities or withdrawal terms. When enrolling, follow the payment schedule and provide all required documents; Registration, testing, and interview fees are non-refundable. If there is a withdrawal, a full semester notice is required; if notice is not given, full semester's fees are payable. Transfer certificates may be required for moving to another school.	Admissions Step 1: Registration. The Admissions Office starts receiving applications in November each year. Submit an application form (online or physical copy) with all required documents. The documents checklist includes birth certificate, copy of passport and CPR, immunization records, previous school reports (last three years), passport-sized photograph, parents' resume with photographs, and copies of parents' passport and CPR. Pay the BD 50 application fee; the fee is non-refundable, and submitting an application form does not guarantee a seat.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist Step 3 indicates that acceptance decisions may include a waiting list; parents are notified of acceptance, non-acceptance, or waiting list by SMS or email within 2-3 weeks after the assessment date. If a seat is not available, the applicant may be placed on the waiting list, and a seat may be offered if one becomes available.
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