British School of Bahrain and St Christopher's School are both in Manama, about 7 km apart. Both schools offer British programmes, and St Christopher's School also offers IB, IGCSE, A-Levels and BTEC. Published annual fees are BHD 3,216 - 8,649 at British School of Bahrain and BHD 2,007 - 8,826 at St Christopher's School, which puts British School of Bahrain roughly 10% higher. Both take pupils from 3 to 18. British School of Bahrain is the larger school, with around 2,900 pupils to St Christopher's School's 2,300. Typical class sizes are 11 at British School of Bahrain and 22 at St Christopher's School.
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British School of Bahrain
Manama, Bahrain
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St Christopher's School
Manama, Bahrain
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year BHD 3,216 - 8,649 | Fees / year BHD 2,007 - 8,826 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 3 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type — | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum British Curriculum | Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), IGCSE Curriculum, A-Levels Curriculum, BTEC Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 2,900 | Pupils 2,300 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 11 | Typical class size 22 |
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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 1961 |
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Bus service
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Bus service — | Bus service — |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location The British School of Bahrain is located in Hamala, Bahrain, on a single-site campus within the Manama area. The campus is purpose-built with modern facilities designed to support a British international curriculum. It has convenient access to transport links across Bahrain. | Location St Christopher's School Bahrain operates across two campuses in Bahrain: the Infant and Junior campus in Muqabah (Gate 790, Road 1322, Muqabah 513) and the Senior campus in Isa Town (Building 119, Road 4109, Isa Town 841). A new Senior School facility is planned for spring 2026 at a site in Al Raffa. The postal address is St Christopher's School, PO Box 32052, Isa Town, Kingdom of Bahrain. |
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Stages
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Stages BSB serves students aged 3 to 18 and is organized into four academic stages: Kindergarten/Infant School (Nursery to Year 2), Elementary/Junior School (Years 3–6), Senior School (Years 7–11), and Sixth Form (Years 12–13). | Stages The Infant School and Junior School portion serves children from Nursery to Year 6 (ages approximately 3–11) on the Saar/Muqabah campus. The Senior School serves students from Year 7 to Year 13 (ages approximately 11–18) at Isa Town, with a Sixth Form component within the Senior School. |
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School type
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School type BSB is a co-educational, day school. It operates as a private international school and does not offer boarding. | School type Co-educational day school; it does not publish a boarding provision. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix The student body includes representation from more than 90 nationalities, indicating a highly international cohort. The most represented nationalities and the local-to-international ratio are not published publicly. | Pupil nationality mix Approximately 70 nationalities are represented at the school; the most common nationality and the local-to-international ratio are not published. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support BSB provides pastoral care and promotes inclusion for a diverse school community. Public information about formal SEN provisions at the school is not published; Bahrain's Ministry of Education supports inclusive education in mainstream schools. | Additional learning support The school maintains a Learning Support Department to assist students with learning challenges, aiming to contribute to the progress and inclusion of learners across the Senior School. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation The curriculum is based on the National Curriculum for England and Wales and the school is a British overseas school accredited by the British Schools Overseas (BSO); it is part of Inspired Education. | Country affiliation Kingdom of Bahrain |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation published for the school; the community is described as diverse and inclusive, with emphasis on mutual respect for different beliefs. | Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation; the school emphasises Education for a Shared Humanity and an inclusive environment. |
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School day structure
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School day structure The school day typically runs from around 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, with variations by year group. Breaks and lunch arrangements are not published publicly; families should confirm exact timings with Admissions. | School day structure Nursery operates with a flexible option: register 07:45–08:00, with half-day finish at 12:15 or full-day finish at 14:25. Reception to Year 2 start at 07:45–08:00 and finish at 14:25. Junior School (Years 3–6) runs from about 07:40–08:10 start with a 14:25 finish. Senior School starts with 07:10–07:50 AM language options, registration 07:50–08:10, and a regular school day typically running from 08:10 to 14:00, with lunch 11:05–11:45 and periods continuing to 14:40 (Enrichment Day may finish at 14:40). |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details BSB provides a school bus service with routes across Bahrain and to Al Khobar in Saudi Arabia. Buses are operated by an experienced team of drivers and bus nannies, and are managed by the Transportation Team; contact transport@thebsbh.com for registration and route details. | Bus service details A dedicated in-house bus service is not listed publicly. Public transport serves the area, with bus lines 15 and 19 stopping near Isa Town; nearest stops include Isa Town Terminal and Sacred Heart School/Isa Town. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Registration and application fees - Registration Fee (non-refundable): BHD 100.000. - Book / e-resources deposit (refundable): BHD 50.000. - Application Fee: BHD 50.000. Tuition fees (2025/26) — fees shown per term and per year - Nursery (ages 3–4): BHD 1,072.000 per term — BHD 3,216.000 per year. - Reception (ages 4–5): BHD 1,417.000 per term — BHD 4,251.000 per year. - Year 1 (ages 5–6): BHD 1,417.000 per term — BHD 4,251.000 per year. - Year 2 (ages 6–7): BHD 1,417.000 per term — BHD 4,251.000 per year. - Year 3 (ages 7–8): BHD 1,612.000 per term — BHD 4,836.000 per year. - Year 4 (ages 8–9): BHD 1,636.000 per term — BHD 4,908.000 per year. - Year 5 (ages 9–10): BHD 1,697.000 per term — BHD 5,091.000 per year. - Year 6 (ages 10–11): BHD 1,697.000 per term — BHD 5,091.000 per year. - Year 7 (ages 11–12): BHD 2,023.000 per term — BHD 6,069.000 per year. - Year 8 (ages 12–13): BHD 2,057.000 per term — BHD 6,171.000 per year. - Year 9 (ages 13–14): BHD 2,152.000 per term — BHD 6,456.000 per year. - Year 10 (ages 14–15): BHD 2,252.000 per term — BHD 6,756.000 per year. - Year 11 (ages 15–16): BHD 2,252.000 per term — BHD 6,756.000 per year. - Year 12 / Lower 6th (ages 16–17): BHD 2,855.000 per term — BHD 8,565.000 per year. - Year 13 / Upper 6th (ages 17–18): BHD 2,883.000 per term — BHD 8,649.000 per year. Educational technology fees - AI fee: BHD 20.000. - VR fee: BHD 20.000. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition must be paid in full at the start of the academic year or according to the school's payment-plan instalment schedule. - Instalment schedule (invoice date → due date): - First instalment: Invoice date 18 May 2025 → Due date 17 June 2025. - Second instalment: Invoice date 12 October 2025 → Due date 11 November 2025. - Third instalment: Invoice date 18 January 2026 → Due date 17 February 2026. - Enrolment for a new academic year carries the obligation to pay the full tuition for that year unless one full term's written notice of withdrawal is provided. If less than one term's notice is given, a full term's fees are payable in lieu of notice. Boarding fees - The school does not operate on‑campus boarding and no boarding fees are listed. Senior students are guaranteed entry to Inspired premium boarding schools if required. Other costs and optional charges - Uniforms are available for purchase at the BSB Uniform Shop (hours and contact details provided by the school); specific uniform prices are set by the uniform shop. - Bus service is available across Bahrain and to Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia; bus-route coverage is published and bus fees are managed through the Transportation Team (contact details provided). Specific bus fees are not listed on the fee schedule. - Some extracurricular clubs and activities incur no additional cost, while other activities and trips may carry separate charges; those charges are not detailed in the tuition schedule above. Refund information and deposits - The Registration Fee (BHD 100.000) is explicitly non‑refundable. - The Book / e‑resources deposit (BHD 50.000) is refundable. - Withdrawal rules: one full term's written notice is required to avoid payment of a full term's fees in lieu of notice. Fee payment options and instructions - Preferred payment methods: FAWATEER, bank transfer, payments via BFC, or cheque. Electronic transfers are accepted; parents are requested to quote the invoice number and student name and to submit the transaction receipt to the Accounts Department. Cash and cheques should not be directly deposited to the school's bank account. All tuition fees must be paid at the Accounts Office in accordance with the invoice due date. | Fee details Application and Registration Fees - Application fee (non-refundable): BD 100 per child. - Registration fee (one-off, non-refundable): BD 1,250 per child (payable if an offer of a place is made). Tuition fees (per term and per annum by year group) - Nursery (12:15 finish): BD 669 per term — BD 2,007 per year. - Nursery (14:25 finish): BD 1,032 per term — BD 3,096 per year. - Reception: BD 1,577 per term — BD 4,731 per year. - Year 1: BD 1,577 per term — BD 4,731 per year. - Year 2: BD 1,577 per term — BD 4,731 per year. - Year 3: BD 1,753 per term — BD 5,259 per year. - Year 4: BD 1,753 per term — BD 5,259 per year. - Year 5: BD 1,753 per term — BD 5,259 per year. - Year 6: BD 1,753 per term — BD 5,259 per year. - Year 7: BD 2,136 per term — BD 6,408 per year. - Year 8: BD 2,136 per term — BD 6,408 per year. - Year 9: BD 2,569 per term — BD 7,707 per year. - Year 10: BD 2,569 per term — BD 7,707 per year. - Year 11: BD 2,569 per term — BD 7,707 per year. - Year 12: BD 2,942 per term — BD 8,826 per year. - Year 13: BD 2,942 per term — BD 8,826 per year. Additional and optional fees - Examination fees (GCSE, A-Level, IB): charged in addition to tuition; typically amount to several hundred BD depending on subjects and exam entries. - Optional extras charged separately where applicable: instrumental tuition, English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for specific students, out-of-hours lessons, and similar activity-based charges. - Uniform: official uniform must be purchased from the listed suppliers (Zaks Store Bahrain, Kukri online store, and Cafe 61 on campus); uniform costs are payable by parents and vary by item and year group. Boarding - St Christopher's operates as a day school; there are no full or weekly boarding places or associated boarding fees. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are charged termly or annually (termly is the standard billing cycle). - Fees must be paid by the last day of the preceding term. Late payment may result in temporary exclusion of the student until payment is made; persistent late payment may lead to cancellation of enrollment. - Bank charges are the responsibility of the payer. Refunds and withdrawal - If notice of withdrawal is given at least two weeks before the start of term, a full refund will be provided for the relevant fees. - No refunds are provided for absence due to sickness or other reasons, except in specific withdrawal circumstances as noted in the school's fees regulations. Fees are otherwise non-refundable. Fee payment methods and bank details - Accepted payment methods: bank transfer (National Bank of Bahrain/NBB), cheque, and cash (cheque and cash accepted at the Saar Campus Accounts Office). - Bank details provided for transfers: - Account name: ST CHRISTOPHERS SCHOOL. - IBAN: BH61NBOB00005000103453. - SWIFT: NBOBBHBM. - Make sure to include your parent reference on the transfer and send proof of payment to accounts@school.st-chris.net. Regulatory and other notes about fees - The school is not-for-profit and fee income is reinvested into school operations. Fees are approved by the Ministry of Education. (End of fees overview) |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements Boarding is not offered at St Christopher's School Bahrain. The school operates as a day school for pupils aged 3 to 18 across two campuses. An International Baccalaureate listing notes 'Boarding facilities: DAY', indicating there is no on-site boarding provision. Families relocating should arrange accommodation off campus. |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement BSB's uniform is designed to be smart, comfortable and practical for Bahrain's climate. Uniforms are available for purchase at the BSB Uniform Shop near the main entrance, and clothing should be labelled with the student's name and class to aid return of items. The Uniform Shop is open from Saturday to Thursday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm; Friday is closed. | Uniform requirement St Christopher's has a formal school uniform. Uniforms can be purchased at Zaks Store Bahrain in Nakeel Centre, Kukri via the Kukri website, or Cafe 61 on both campuses. The PE uniform is ordered separately from Kukri. |
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Food options
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Food options The school cafeteria offers well-balanced, nutritious meals daily with options to meet dietary requirements. Catering staff provide a diverse range of choices, and students may bring meals from home. BSB operates a nut-free environment and prohibits nuts or nut-based products on campus. | Food options Cafe 61 operates on both Saar and Isa Town campuses, offering homemade, healthy snacks and drinks in line with the school's healthy eating policies. It provides a take-away option and encourages eco-friendly practices such as reusable cups. The Saar Campus cafe operates 07:00–16:00, Sunday to Thursday. |
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House system
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House system — | House system The House System comprises four houses named after birds of prey: Falcon (red), Kestrel (blue), Merlin (green) and Osprey (yellow). Family members are placed in the same House as their siblings. Students wear their House colours at events such as Sports Days and Swimming Galas and can earn House Points for effort, achievement and good behaviour. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership BSB is part of Inspired Education, a global group of premium private schools. It identifies itself as an Inspired School, indicating governance within the Inspired network and access to its international community of schools. | Governance and ownership St Christopher's School Bahrain is governed by a Board of Governors consisting of representatives from the founder Companies and from the parent body. The Board also includes the Dean of St Christopher's Cathedral and may include co-opted members for specialist knowledge. The school identifies itself as a not-for-profit institution. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The British School of Bahrain follows the National Curriculum for England and Wales, adapted for an international context and Bahrain, and is organized into Infant (EYFS Nursery–Reception; Key Stage 1 Year 1–2), Junior (Key Stage 2 Year 3–6), and Senior (Key Stages 3–5: KS3 Years 7–9, KS4 Years 10–11, KS5 Years 12–13). English is the language of instruction; Arabic is a core subject taught in sets, with French offered as a language option in the Primary School. At Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11), students may study GCSE, IGCSE, or BTEC qualifications. In Sixth Form (Years 12–13), the school offers International A Levels, A Levels, and BTEC diplomas, with a wide range of subjects including International A Level offerings such as Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography and Computer Science. The curriculum is complemented by a broad co-curricular program, and Arabic language and Islamic Studies options are provided where applicable. | Curriculum details St Christopher's Bahrain operates a Future Ready Curriculum across the Infant, Junior and Senior sections, designed to develop six competencies: Academic, Metacognition, Service, Enterprise, Digital, and Wellbeing. The Infant School uses the UK Early Years Foundation Stage framework with a play-based approach that emphasises communication, language, physical development, and early literacy and numeracy, with specialist Arabic, PE, Music and swimming. From Year 7 to Year 9, the curriculum follows the English National Curriculum (adapted to the local context); Years 10–11 offer GCSEs with broad subject choices, and Post-16 provides either A-levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. In the Sixth Form, students can study A-levels, the IB Diploma Programme, or BTEC courses (stand-alone or in combination with A Levels), with entry requirements and university guidance provided by the school. The Arabic department delivers Arabic, Islamic Studies and Bahrain Citizenship under the Bahraini MOE curriculum, with non-Arabic-speaking students able to study Arabic as a second language and GCSE Arabic as a Second Language where offered. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression — | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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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 supports Social and Emotional Learning through a Support 360 wellbeing programme led by the well-being team, with three dedicated school counsellors; Form Teachers act as the first point of contact for pastoral matters, and Heads and Deputy Heads provide additional support alongside counselling and academic staff, with collaboration from external agencies as needed. | Social & emotional learning St Christopher's Bahrain integrates wellbeing into everyday school life to support students academically, socially, and emotionally. The core values guiding this approach are Caring, Honesty, and Mutual Respect. A dedicated counselling team provides proactive support across all phases, addressing emotional, social, and behavioural challenges with tailored interventions. Wellbeing is embedded in the curriculum, co-curricular programmes, and school events, with staff across form groups and subject areas sharing responsibility for students' welfare. The Wellbeing Framework focuses on Balance, Resilience, Belonging, and Self-Regulation to promote healthy habits, resilience, and positive mental health. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) The SENDA policy confirms inclusive education for all students aged 3–18, with provision for communication and interaction, cognition and learning, social, emotional and mental health difficulties, and sensory/physical needs; SENCOs are named for Senior, Junior, and Infant sections, and support is planned and reviewed using the graduated APDR cycle. | Special educational needs (SEN) St Christopher's Bahrain offers Learning Support via a dedicated department staffed by specialist teachers and learning support assistants. The department provides targeted in-class support, small-group interventions (LS Clubs), and short one-to-one sessions, with withdrawal groups to help students access the curriculum with greater independence. Senior School also provides in-class support and targeted withdrawal sessions as needed to foster inclusion across the curriculum. The Learning Support team works in close partnership with families, the school counselling team, class teachers, and outside agencies to deliver an integrated service across the school. Specific categories of Special Educational Needs (SEN) supported are not itemised publicly on the site, and it is not described as a specialist SEN institution. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language The English and Additional Language (EAL) Policy states that EAL students are entitled to the full BSB programmes, with all teachers responsible for enabling them to learn English alongside other subjects; language needs should be identified and planned for in curriculum planning, and EAL students have access to Learning Support and other programmes when appropriate. | English as an additional language English is the language of instruction at St Christopher's Bahrain, as reflected in external programme profiles. EAL support is referenced in the Fees schedule as an optional extra for specific Infant students. Details about staffing or formal EAL programmes beyond this note are not publicly listed on the site. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported via Support 360, a holistic wellbeing service on the campus, delivered by the well-being team and including counselling services; it brings together counselling professionals, pastoral and academic staff, and external agencies to address emotional and social development. | Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through a robust counselling provision and comprehensive wellbeing procedures. The counselling team offers specialised support across all phases and works proactively with students, families, and staff to address emotional, social, and behavioural challenges. Wellbeing is a cornerstone of the school's strategy, integrated into classroom practice, co-curricular activities, and school events. The Wellbeing Framework emphasises Balance, Resilience, Belonging, and Self-Regulation to help students develop healthy habits, cope with challenges, and engage confidently with the school community. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding Safeguarding and Child Protection are governed by the Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy, with Designated Safeguarding Leads for the Senior, Junior, and Infant schools and a Deputy DSL; staff training is mandatory, and clear procedures exist for reporting concerns and coordinating with external agencies. | Safeguarding St Christopher's Bahrain is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its care. The school follows safe recruitment practices, and appointments are subject to vetting including reference checks, identity verification, and criminal record checks. The safeguarding ethos is reinforced across the school's policies and staff practices, with explicit safeguarding statements appearing in the school's recruitment and employment materials. External indicators of safeguarding focus include regular inspections and accreditations that emphasize child protection and welfare. |
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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 The British School of Bahrain is located on a purpose-built campus in Hamala and serves students aged 3 to 18. The school operates across two campuses: Hamala Campus and New Senior School. It has an international community with over 90 nationalities represented. It is accredited by the British Schools Overseas (BSO) and rated Outstanding by the Bahrain Education and Training Quality Authority (BQA). The BSB Infant School uses the Reggio Emilia approach to learning. | Facilities overview St Christopher's School Bahrain operates across two campuses: the Primary campus (Infant and Junior) in Muqabah and the Senior School in Isa Town, with a new New Senior School campus planned to open in spring 2026. The New Senior School is designed to be state-of-the-art with modern technology and sustainable design. SPARTA provides a Sports and Arts Academy Programme with facilities including a FIFA-standard artificial grass football pitch, a fully shaded 7-a-side pitch, and a heated indoor pool. Libraries across campuses include an infant/junior library space in Saar, plus a Senior Library with digital resources and a Post-16 area, and Accelerated Reader with over 7,000 quizzable books. Drama and music are supported by a dedicated Drama Hall with lighting and sound, two smaller studios, and a large music program offering hundreds of one-to-one lessons and ensembles. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities The school offers an extensive sports programme. It includes 30 sports, 32 teams and around 100 fixtures. The programme supports broad participation and talent development across divisions. The school emphasises sports as a key part of holistic education. The sports provision is integrated across the campus. | Sports facilities SPARTA facilities include a FIFA-standard artificial grass football pitch and a fully shaded 7-a-side pitch. The indoor pool is heated and air-conditioned, providing space for swimming lessons and the Sharks elite squad. SPARTA Athletics offers competitive leagues and obstacle-based events for younger and older students. SPARTA Dance provides classes with IDTA and RAD qualifications, from recreational to competitive levels, across age groups. SPARTA Swimming, Tennis, Volleyball and Gymnastics are available as part of the overall SPARTA programme. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities The English-led curriculum is based on the English National Curriculum, with Arabic, French and Spanish language study. IB Diploma, BTEC and A Levels are offered. The academic stages are Kindergarten/Infant (Nursery–Year 2), Elementary/Junior (Years 3–6), Senior School (Years 7–11) and Sixth Form/IB Diploma (Years 12–13). The school maintains a 1:11 teacher-to-student ratio. There is on-campus university counselling to support university applications. | Academic facilities The Science Department operates twelve fully equipped laboratories with up-to-date data-logging equipment. The Drama Department uses a dedicated three-space setup: a fully equipped Drama Hall with theatre lighting and sound and two smaller studios. Design and Technology facilities include CAD/CAM capabilities and access to smart materials. Libraries across campuses support learning with a Primary library in Saar, a well-resourced Senior Library with digital resources and a Post-16 area, and an Accelerated Reader program that supports reading development with thousands of quizzable books. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities The school runs summer camps and student exchange programmes. University counselling is available on campus to support applications. It is part of Inspired, a global education network spanning 24 countries. The school has more than 90 nationalities represented in its student body. Senior students have guaranteed entry to Inspired premium boarding schools worldwide. | Extra curricular facilities The school's music program offers over 400 weekly one-to-one instrumental lessons, a full symphony orchestra, multiple ensembles, a large choral program, and music theory classes. A robust drama program features annual whole-school productions and KS3 performances, along with drama and dance clubs. SPARTA provides a broad range of sports and arts activities, including athletics, football, tennis, swimming, gymnastics, volleyball, and dance. Cafe 61 and other campus facilities support community events and family engagement. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History The British School of Bahrain began in the summer of 1994 when George Hawkins joined as consultant and headteacher to establish the school. The first term opened in January 1995 with seven classes, after preparations in December 1994 that included three founding students. By January 1995 the school exceeded its early target with about 90 students, and within seven months it had expanded to 14 classes serving more than 200 students from more than 40 countries. The school now operates on a single campus in Hamala and is part of Inspired Education Group, reflecting its integration into a global network of premium schools. Inspired Education Group is a large global network that includes BSB among its member schools. | History From modest beginnings in a villa in 1961, St Christopher's has grown into a large, not-for-profit, internationally renowned school at the heart of the community. It now educates over 2,300 students from more than 70 nations. The founders were the fourteen sponsor companies who took over management in 1975; the number later rose to eighteen in 1995, with the constitution requiring that between five and eight founder companies be represented on the Board of Governors. Current founder companies include ALBA, BAPCO, Bank ABC, British Airways, Gulf Air, HSBC, Investcorp, Unilever Bahrain and YBA Kanoo Holdings. The school operates across two Bahrain campuses—Infant and Junior on one site and Senior on Building 119 in Isa Town—with a New Senior School planned to open in spring 2026. |
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Community
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Community BSB describes itself as a family-first, inclusive, and diverse international community with a strong focus on wellbeing. English is the medium of instruction, with Arabic taught as a core subject, and the school emphasizes mutual respect for cultures and beliefs. Pastoral care is strong, with about 300 staff and three school counsellors, and a 360-degree well-being service that supports students. Community life includes charity work and cultural celebrations, such as the annual BSB International Family Fair, which in 2023 drew thousands of attendees and showcased dozens of countries. | Community The school has a diverse international community with students from more than 70 nations. The school hosts a range of community events that bring families together, including School Productions, the Performing Arts Festival, the Festive Fayre, and Young Musicians of the Gulf, as well as Iftar in the Park and various sports competitions. An active Alumni Programme is being developed to reconnect graduates and support the St Chris community. Parents participate through the Parent Teacher Organisation (PTO) and related activities, fundraising, and volunteering opportunities. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association Active parental involvement is encouraged through voluntary groups, including the British School of Bahrain Parent Community Ambassadors (PCA) and the Parent Advisory Group (PAG). These groups provide opportunities for engagement between parents and staff, reinforcing the school's family-oriented ethos. The on-site cafe supports parent activity and serves as a hub for engagement. The school's News & Events pages show PTA-led activity, including the annual BSB International Family Fair, which in 2023 drew almost 4,000 attendees and showcased cultures from many countries. Parents participate as volunteers and in workshops, with opportunities to attend meetings, tours and other school-life activities organized by PCA and PAG. | Parent teacher association The school's Parent Teacher Organisation (PTO) is the formal parent body that supports and strengthens St Christopher's School Bahrain's community life. Historically, the PTO has organized the Festive Fayre and many other community events, as well as in-school activities such as School Productions and Bahrain Day across the Primary and Senior Schools. A key focus of the PTO is fundraising, leveraging support from local businesses to extend school life beyond its normal scope. There are multiple ways for parents to get involved, including leadership roles, PTO Committee membership, or volunteering on projects, with involvement tailored to each family's availability. To participate, parents can submit the volunteer information form at stchris.online/PTOVolunteerInfo or contact pto.stchris@gmail.com. The PTO is fundamental to a cohesive and thriving school community and we hope that many of you will choose to join us. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual The Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) programme, Elements by BSB, delivers diverse opportunities for students to explore interests beyond the classroom. The programme includes sports, arts, music, drama, and clubs such as S.T.E.M. Lab, Robotics, Photography, Chess, and an Environmental & Sustainability Club. ECAs are led by specialist teachers and are available after school on campus; the majority are offered free of charge. | Academic & intellectual The school provides education from Nursery through Sixth Form, with an Infant School, a Junior School, a Senior School, and a Sixth Form. It offers a British curriculum with multiple pathways including BTEC, A Levels, and the IB Diploma Programme. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Drama, Dance, Music, and Art are offered as extracurricular activities. Drama lessons and music tuition are part of the enrichment options, and Fine Arts and Arabic Calligraphy are highlighted as visual-art opportunities. | Arts & creative — |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language English, French, Arabic, and Spanish books are available in the campus library. Language-related ECAs and clubs support language study, and debate team membership is part of enrichment activities. | Cultural & language — |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Sports offered include Basketball, Football, Taekwondo, Swimming, Gymnastics, and Tennis, with clubs such as Photography and Chess providing creative and recreational outlets. | Social & hobbies — |
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Community & service
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Community & service — | Community & service — |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Elements by BSB is led by passionate coaches and teachers who are specialists in their fields, guiding students to gain confidence and develop skills. Debate team membership is available as part of enrichment. | Leadership & professional — |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus features a basketball court and an astroturf football pitch that support physical activity. Extracurricular activities run after school on campus, contributing to students' physical health and social development. | Lifestyle & wellbeing — |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision English is the medium of instruction. Arabic is a core subject taught in sets according to children's prior experience. French is taught as a language, and Spanish is offered as well. The curriculum is English-led and includes Arabic, French and Spanish tuition. | Language provision The school uses English as the language of instruction and follows the English National Curriculum in Years 7–9 and I/GCSEs in Years 10–11. Arabic is taught as a specialist subject in the Infant School from Reception and continues through the primary years. French is taught as a specialist subject in the Junior School. In the Sixth Form, French and Spanish are offered as International Baccalaureate subjects, including Ab Initio options. |
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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 A-level results in 2024 were Bahrain's highest for the fifth year in a row. | Awards Top 100 Spear's; TES 2024 Curriculum Initiative of the Year; BSO Outstanding; BQA Outstanding |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations BSO accreditation; Bahrain Quality Assurance (BQA) Outstanding rating. | Accreditations BSO Outstanding; BQA Outstanding in all categories; Spear's Top 100 Private Schools (global ranking); TES Award 2024 – Curriculum Initiative of the Year |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions Registration: To register for a place, complete the online Application Form and submit it with the required documents: child's passport; child's CPR card (if available); copies of both parents' passports and CPR cards (if available); child's immunisation record; passport-sized photo of the child; child's school report; previous school transfer certificate (if available). An Application Fee of 50 BD is payable. Sixth Form applicants attending a non-British school must include certificates of alternative qualifications. Assessment: Infant School applicants are assessed on Readiness for School, which evaluates English language development, social skills and behaviour. Children applying to Year 1 and Year 2 sit assessments in Math and English and are evaluated on social skills, behaviour and ability to sustain a conversation. From Year 3 upwards, applicants sit an online entrance assessment under exam conditions; assessments comprise a mathematics section, an English section and a Non-Verbal Reasoning section followed by a written task. After the application is completed, each student must successfully complete age-appropriate assessments. Enrolment: To begin the enrolment process, successful applicants must sign the Parent-School Agreement (PSA); pay a non-refundable Registration Fee of 100 BD; pay a Book Deposit Fee of 50 BD. Please note that the school must receive all documentation and fees before finalising enrolment. Admission: Upon admission to the school, new students will be introduced to their class teacher and members of the Pastoral Team. The first term is probationary and students will be well supported during this time. Follow the links below to view the Ministry of Education's application requirements for relocating to Bahrain or transferring from schools within Bahrain. | Admissions 1. Enquiry and campus visit. The school offers British-style education for children aged 3–18 and has been rated Outstanding by the British Schools Overseas (BSO) and Bahrain Quality Assurance Authority (BQA) for four consecutive years. Prospective families visit the Saar Campus for Infant/Junior and the Isa Town Campus for Senior to experience facilities, with the Admissions Team guiding the process. 2. Application submission. Complete the online pre-registration form; an application fee of BD 100 per child applies. Submit required documents (passports, CPRs, recent school reports, vaccination records) with requirements varying by year group. 3. Assessment and offer. Applicants undergo age-appropriate assessments (play-based observations for younger children; formal tests for older students). An offer pack is issued by email, and the non-refundable registration fee of BD 1,250 must be paid with acceptance. 4. Age-specific admissions details. Nursery (Age 3) may offer half-day or full-day options, with SPARTA sessions for full day and on-site play-based assessments; Reception to Year 2 (Ages 4–7) use play-based assessments focusing on social, emotional, and early academic skills; Years 3–6 (Ages 7–11) assess English, Mathematics, and general ability with possible interview and review of previous reports; Years 7–13 (Ages 11–18) involve formal testing in core subjects and general ability with consideration of prior records and potential interviews. 5. Placement timing and contacts. Applications are accepted up to one year in advance of entry, and placement depends on assessment outcomes and available places. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships BSB Scholars Programme recognises talent across disciplines and is open to exceptional learners ready to shine in academics, music, sports, arts, and drama. Scholarship categories: Academic, Music, Sports, Arts, Drama. Benefits include tuition fee remission for outstanding talent from Year 3 onwards and opportunities for advanced development, including enrichment activities, specialist coaching and personalised guidance; additional benefits apply according to scholarship type. Eligibility: scholarships are open to both current and prospective students from Year 3 onwards. DEADLINE: Applications close 30 December 2025. ANNOUNCEMENT: Selected Scholars announced in February 2026. How to apply: submit your application online to admissions@thebsbh.com, showcase talent via assessment, audition, or portfolio, attend an interview with our panel, and receive the scholarship and ongoing support. | Scholarships St Christopher's offers three scholarship categories: academic, sport, and music. Scholarships are awarded by the Scholarship Committee, which comprises three Board members, the Principal, and the Head of Senior School, to ensure transparency and fairness; families receiving fee reductions are not entitled to additional financial gain. Scholarships may be available to current students or to students from other schools, with renewal contingent on maintaining high standards. Fee reductions awarded range from 0% to 20% and may include waivers of some participation fees (e.g., music or sport). Information regarding opportunities for the 2026/27 academic year will be released in early 2026. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
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