Chinese International School Manila vs The British School Manila

	C Chinese International School Manila Manila, Philippines	T The British School Manila Manila, Philippines
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₱662,815 - 1,081,471	Fees / year ₱536,040 - 1,414,215
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 300	Pupils 978
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2007	Opened 1976
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The Chinese International School Manila is located on Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Hill, Fort Bonifacio, 1634 Taguig City, Metro Manila. It sits in the heart of Taguig's McKinley Hill area, a mixed‑use district with nearby residential and commercial developments. The campus is easily reachable from major roads in Bonifacio Global City and surrounding areas.	Location 36th Street, University Park, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. The campus sits within the Bonifacio Global City district, a major international business and residential area. It is near other international schools and foreign embassies, reflecting its international community.
Stages	Stages The school is an all‑through K‑12 institution with Early Years (ages 3–5), Elementary (ages 6–10), Middle School (ages 11–13), and High School (ages 14–17). The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is offered for the senior years (ages 16–19).	Stages The British School Manila provides education from Early Years through Senior School. Early Years Foundation Stage and Key Stages 1–5 follow the English National Curriculum, with Key Stage 5 offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
School type	School type CISM is a private international day school offering education from preschool through high school. The campus serves a diverse student body drawn from many nationalities.	School type The school is co-educational and privately run as a not-for-profit international school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning support includes English as an Additional Language (EAL) and an Additional Learning Needs (ALN) program. Support is provided both within regular lessons and in specialist classes as needed, with individualized educational plans and a referral/assessment process involving parents.	Additional learning support BSM offers Learning Support, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy and School Counselling as part of its Student Support Services.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation There is no country‑specific affiliation stated; the school is based in the Philippines and is affiliated with the Philippine DepEd and the IB through its accreditation and programmes.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated; BSM operates as a British international school and is not tied to a single country.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated; the school presents a secular, values‑based approach to education.	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation: none stated; the school is secular.
School day structure	School day structure Timings of the day are published for the 2026–2027 intake; for specific class schedules, contact the Admissions Office. The school operates a schedule that accommodates its diverse programmes and events.	School day structure School day typically starts at 7:40 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and at 8:10 a.m. on Thursdays. The day ends around 2:30 p.m. for most year groups, and Nursery ends at 12:30 p.m.
Bus service details	Bus service details The school offers a School Bus service with XID Transport as the provider. Service covers routes within BGC and Makati; an information packet is available on request and the provider can be reached at 0919‑094‑4672.	Bus service details Bus service: The school provides a bus service for students.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fee - An application and assessment fee is charged as part of the admissions process; the published guidance indicates an Application and Assessment Fee of Php 2,500. Tuition fees (by year group) — annual, semestral and quarterly options - Nursery - Annual: Php 662,815. - Semestral: Php 491,540 and Php 181,352. - Quarterly: Php 401,729 and Php 91,541/quarter. - Pre‑K / Kindergarten - Annual: Php 707,832. - Semestral: Php 514,691 and Php 204,503. - Quarterly: Php 413,415 and Php 103,227/quarter. - Grades 1–5 - Annual: Php 843,674. - Semestral: Php 595,262 and Php 263,024. - Quarterly: Php 465,004 and Php 132,766/quarter. - Grades 6–8 - Annual: Php 891,984. - Semestral: Php 630,817 and Php 276,529. - Quarterly: Php 493,871 and Php 139,583/quarter. - Grades 9–10 - Annual: Php 1,013,611. - Semestral: Php 714,789 and Php 316,401. - Quarterly: Php 588,097 and Php 159,709/quarter. - Grades 11–12 - Annual: Php 1,081,471. - Semestral: Php 771,108 and Php 328,620. - Quarterly: Php 608,365 and Php 165,877/quarter. (Amounts shown as published under the school's fee structure: Annual, Semestral and Quarterly columns are presented as listed above.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices are issued by email before the end of the current academic semester or immediately following acceptance of a place for a new enrollee. - Tuition is payable in advance either for the whole year or per semester. Tuition is due one month prior to the first day of school or upon enrolment. - For semestral payments, the payment is due one month prior to the first day of each term. - If fees remain unpaid two weeks after the due date, the student may be suspended; continued non‑payment after suspension may result in forfeiture of the place. Fees are not refunded when a child is withdrawn from the school. Boarding fees - Not applicable. Chinese International School Manila is operated as a day school and does not publish boarding or residential fees. Other costs and fees - English-as-an-Additional-Language (EAL) support is offered where required and carries a corresponding fee. - Additional school fees (for example, assessment fees, materials, learning‑support charges, transportation, cafeteria meal plans, extracurricular trips or program fees) are handled through the admissions/fee process and may be charged in addition to tuition; these supplemental fees are discussed during admissions. The school's admissions materials note that other school fees will be discussed during the admissions process. - Uniforms: a Uniform Guide is provided and uniform items are a separate cost; specific uniform prices are not listed in the published fee summary and are supplied through the school's uniform guidance. Refunds and forfeiture - Fees will not be refunded if a child is withdrawn from the school. Failure to pay by the stated deadlines can lead to suspension and, if unresolved, forfeiture of the child's place. Fee payment options - Accepted methods for tuition payments include wire transfer, direct deposit to the school's bank accounts, and cheque. Cash payments are discouraged. - The school issues invoices that state the due dates and payment instructions; the school's fee guidance emphasizes advance payment timing (one month prior to the start of school/term).	Fee details Application fee - Application fee (non-refundable): PHP 30,000. Tuition fees (termly) — amounts payable each term - Nursery: GBP 1,225 + PHP 88,030 per term. Annual equivalent (three terms): GBP 3,675 + PHP 264,090. - Reception – Year 6: GBP 2,440 + PHP 175,520 per term. Annual equivalent: GBP 7,320 + PHP 526,560. - Year 7 – Year 9: GBP 2,745 + PHP 197,365 per term. Annual equivalent: GBP 8,235 + PHP 592,095. - Year 10 – Year 11: GBP 2,885 + PHP 207,560 per term. Annual equivalent: GBP 8,655 + PHP 622,680. - Year 12 – Year 13: GBP 3,230 + PHP 232,385 per term. Annual equivalent: GBP 9,690 + PHP 697,155. Other compulsory or regularly charged fees - Yearbook: PHP 2,500 per family, charged yearly. - Class and individual photos: PHP 1,200 per year (charged yearly). - External examination fees: charged at cost as incurred (these appear as additional charges and are billed separately). - Learning Support Fees (for students who require additional learning support), charged termly by stage: - Stage 2: PHP 24,955 per term (PHP 74,865 annual). - Stage 3: PHP 65,100 per term (PHP 195,300 annual). - Stage 4: PHP 103,075 per term (PHP 309,225 annual). Entrance fee and Capital Development Fee (CDF) - A non‑refundable Entrance Fee is charged and is payable on acceptance; the Admissions Guide for prior years has recorded an Entrance Fee of PHP 339,450. - A Capital Development Fee (CDF) is charged and billed termly; previous published schedules show a CDF of PHP 47,825 per term (applicable Nursery to Year 13) and that the CDF is non‑refundable. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are billed and payable termly. There are three terms per school year. Existing students' fees must be paid in full by the first day of each term. - For new admissions, fees are payable according to the due dates shown on the school Statement of Account. Mid‑term admissions are billed pro‑rata for the remaining weeks of the term. The full term tuition is required regardless of the length of time the child attends, except where pro‑rata billing applies for mid‑term starts. - Illustrative term dates and due dates listed in published schedules: Term 1 due in August; Term 2 due in January; Term 3 due in April. Late payments incur interest (example shown: interest at 2% per month for fees not received by the due date) and prolonged non‑payment may result in suspension notices. Refunds and withdrawal terms - Entrance Fee and Capital Development Fee (CDF) are non‑refundable. - Notice of withdrawal must be submitted in writing using the school's Notice of Withdrawal form by the published deadlines; failure to provide the required notice can entitle the school to payment in full for the following term. Academic records and reports are withheld until all outstanding fees (including interest) are settled. - Prior admissions guidance documents state that a Nursery deposit equal to one‑half term's fee is billed on acceptance and may be refundable under the specific conditions listed in the school's enrollment terms (parents should note deposit conditions and deadlines). Boarding - Boarding is not offered; the school operates as a day school and does not publish boarding fees. Other optional / commonly billed services and likely additional costs - Optional services and ancillary costs (examples that are typically charged separately): school lunches, school bus/transport, extra‑curricular activities, overseas trips and specialist courses; these items are billed separately or on request. (Published schedules list yearbook, photos, external exam fees and learning support fees as separate charges.) Payment methods and instructions - Accepted payment channels include bank transfers to named school accounts (examples given include HSBC, UnionBank and Metrobank accounts in the school's collection arrangements). Parents must indicate the student's name on the bank advice and are responsible for any bank charges. - Card payments are accepted (credit/debit) via a card payment link; card payments incur a processing fee (example noted up to 3.2%). - E‑wallet payments (examples shown include Maya and GCash) are accepted as alternative channels in the school's payment options.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform information is available through the Admissions Office. The school maintains a uniform policy.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options The school maintains a cafeteria. The canteen concessionaire is The Institute of Culinary Management, Inc. (ICMI); meals can be ordered via the mealmanage.com portal.	Food options Sodexo Philippines provides the school's cafeteria service for SY 2024-2025. The partnership expands menu variety with international and local cuisines and includes micromarket and vending solutions, as well as after-school activities teaching cooking skills and nutrition. A detailed information pack and ordering options were planned to be rolled out to families in August 2024. (source: turn0search5)
House system	House system House events are part of the co-curricular program and student leadership activities.	House system On admission, students and staff are allocated to one of three Houses: Luzon (Green), Visayas (Red), Mindanao (Yellow). Each House has three Student Captains and three Deputies. The House System fosters community and includes whole-school and year-group competitions, with House Points, House Shields and a House Cup awarded across terms. (source: turn0search1)
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is a non-profit, non-stock organization administered by a Board of Trustees. The Head of School is Angelica Fernandez De Castro, and the Board Chair is Martin Lorenzo. The Board is responsible for finance, staffing, premises, enrollment, safeguarding, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.	Governance and ownership The British School Manila is operated by British Education Inc. It is governed by a 12-member Board of Governors (four elected, eight appointed) and overseen by a five-member Council of Trustees that includes members of the British Embassy and the Australian Embassy. Day-to-day operations are led by the Head of School, supported by the Chief Operating Officer and the Heads of Primary and Senior School. (source: turn0search0)
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Chinese International School Manila offers a K–12 curriculum taught in English, with Mandarin as a key language strand. The program structure starts with Early Years (play-based and inquiry-led), moves to Elementary School (ages 6–10) following common core and next-generation standards alongside foreign language study, then Middle School (ages 11–13) focusing on communication, cultural understanding and a global perspective, and High School (grades 11–12) aligned to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The school is an IB World School authorized to offer the full Diploma Programme since 2011, requiring six subjects (three Higher Level and three Standard Level) plus the DP Core: Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity and Service; students may also undertake individual DP courses for certificates. Mandarin is available as a Group 2 language option within the DP, and English is the language of instruction. Learning Support is provided for students who require English language or other academic assistance.	Curriculum details BSM follows an adapted English National Curriculum arranged into Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stages 1–5. EYFS (Nursery–Reception) and KS1 (Year 1–2) use play-based learning with phonics (Letters & Sounds) and Year 2's Inquiry Projects to build foundational literacy and numeracy. KS2 (Years 3–6) develops knowledge through concept-based learning around topics such as interdependence, systems and change, supported by the Learning Power Approach and a Well-Being Framework. KS3 (Years 7–9) delivers a bespoke British National Curriculum taught by subject specialists with emphasis on global citizenship. KS4 (Years 10–11) follows a two-year International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) programme, with students choosing subjects to achieve breadth and depth for university study. KS5 (Year 12–13) offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), comprising six subject groups and a core of Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity and Service, with Higher and Standard Level options.
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 The Chinese International School Manila offers a Nursery–Grade 12 Guidance Programme delivered by two school counsellors. It supports students' personal, social, and academic development and covers topics such as self-awareness, goal setting, managing emotions, conflict resolution, and positive social skills. Counselling is provided on a short‑term, professional, and confidential basis for students and the wider school community. The Counselling Team collaborates with the Senior Leadership Team and the Safeguarding Team to address safeguarding matters, and students or staff can self‑refer or be referred for counselling. The team also shares wellbeing and mental health updates with parents through Parent Forums, pastoral meetings, and the weekly newsletter.	Social & emotional learning The British School Manila adopts a bespoke Well-Being Framework that promotes a whole-school approach to positive physical and mental health. Five key areas are defined as targets for all students: Self Acceptance, an Active and Balanced Lifestyle, an Ability to Self-regulate, a Sense of Belonging, and a Capacity for Growth and Resilience. The school uses a Positive Education approach (Positive Psychology) to help students lead meaningful lives and contribute to others, with the aim of cultivating what is best within themselves and in others. Dedicated Positive Education classes teach these concepts, and key ideas are reinforced in other subjects. The Physical Education Health & Well-Being Team delivers a programme that integrates the Well-Being Framework into the PE curriculum to support holistic development and belonging. Well-Being lessons cover relationship-building, self-talk and realistic thinking, emotional self-regulation, resilience, gratitude, self-motivation, curiosity, and strengths recognition.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school maintains an ALN (Additional Learning Needs) department and an EAL (English as an Additional Language) department to support learners. ALN is described as catering to students who have a specific learning disability or difficulty, or who require specialist assistance, within a mainstream setting. Support is provided within the classroom and in separate specialist classes as needed, with specialist teachers delivering individualized programmes through a multi‑sensory, cumulative approach. When literacy or numeracy needs are identified, the ALN or EAL Coordinator conducts a full assessment and parents are consulted, with a referral process used to monitor concerns and, if necessary, involve external bodies. The public materials do not describe the school as a dedicated SEN specialist institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) BSM offers Learning Support, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy and School Counselling as part of its Student Support Services, delivered by a multidisciplinary team. Learning Support provides high-quality intervention for Primary and Senior School, with tailored support for learning, language, social and behavioural needs, using a multi-tiered approach that includes in-class, small group and individual support for both short-term and longer-term needs. Speech-language therapists provide intervention for speech and language disorders and delays, assessing speech, language, cognitive-communication, pragmatic language and feeding/swallowing skills to determine accommodations and strategies. Occupational Therapy helps students improve task behaviours, gross and fine motor skills, cognitive skills, executive functions, sensory processing and communication to enable meaningful participation. School Counselling offers comprehensive, student-centered support aimed at promoting academic, personal, social and emotional development, delivered by a team of professionals with a focus on diversity, inclusion and cultural sensitivity. The school does not publicly disclose information regarding whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided by a dedicated EAL department. The school notes that the curriculum is taught in English and that staff are experienced in supporting students who speak two or more languages. Students receive support both within the classroom and in separate specialist classes as needed. Specialist teachers develop individualized educational programmes through a multi‑sensory, cumulative approach. A literacy/numeracy needs assessment is conducted by the EAL Coordinator with parent consultation, and external referrals may be made if required.	English as an additional language EAL support is provided through Learning Support; the Admissions page states that English Language Proficiency is required and that all candidates undergo an age-appropriate English assessment, with Learning Support available for incoming students. The Student Support page notes that Learning Support can address language needs as part of its broad intervention for learning, language, social and behavioural needs. There is no separate, named EAL department listed on the site; support is delivered through Learning Support. English language proficiency requirements are explicitly outlined in the Admissions section.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The Counselling Team consists of two counsellors who support the Nursery–Grade 12 Guidance Programme, addressing personal, social, and academic needs. The programme may include topics such as self‑awareness, goal setting, managing emotions, and social skills, and is responsive to current student needs. Counselling is short‑term, confidential, and available to students and the wider school community to promote well‑being. The team provides wellbeing and mental health updates to staff and families through parent forums, pastoral meetings, and the weekly newsletter. The Counselling Team works with the Senior Leadership Team and the Safeguarding Team to provide guidance on safeguarding matters, with self‑referrals or staff referrals possible.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is central to BSM's Well-Being Framework, which emphasizes positive physical and mental health and uses Positive Education to foster resilience and a growth mindset. The framework is integrated into the curriculum and school life, with a focus on self-acceptance, belonging, emotional regulation, and self-motivation. The PE, Health and Well-Being programme reinforces mental well-being by delivering the Well-Being Framework through PE and sport, promoting inclusivity, differentiation and active lifestyles. Well-being concepts are taught in dedicated Well-Being classes and reinforced across subjects, including relationship-building, self-talk, resilience and gratitude activities. The aim is to cultivate belonging, curiosity and a capacity for growth in all students.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students, with clear procedures in place to support children, families, and staff. The Designated Safeguarding Lead is the Head of School, Angelica Fernandez de Castro, and there are designated safeguarding deputies, including the Director of Elementary School (Mylene Pastor) and the Director of High School (Martin Frias). All staff receive safeguarding training on an annual basis, and a member of the Board of Governors serves as a safeguarding liaison. For serious concerns, safeguarding contacts are available through designated school emails.	Safeguarding BSM is committed to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and maintains an environment that minimizes risk of harm while promoting students' right to be heard if they feel unsafe. The school also promotes safeguarding and the well-being of staff, parents and volunteers and expects their active participation in creating a safe and inclusive environment. The Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy can be accessed through the Family Portal. These policies reflect a structured, school-wide approach to safeguarding and child protection.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Chinese International School Manila's Taguig campus provides a comprehensive set of facilities to support learning and well being. The academic facilities include a modern library/media center, dedicated laboratories for sciences, design technology, product design, and visual arts, and an ICT lab. Creative spaces include a theatre/dance studio and music facilities that support performance arts. The campus houses a large indoor sports hall and multiple gymnasia, outdoor fields, and courts for basketball, volleyball, and badminton. The school operates an on site cafeteria with a catering partner and online meal management, and offers a broad enrichment program with after school activities and trips.	Facilities overview The British School Manila's campus combines academic, arts, and sports facilities designed to deliver learning beyond the classroom. The indoor multi-purpose hall supports basketball, volleyball and badminton, with a covered court, two football fields, and two swimming pools on site. The Creative Arts Centre provides spaces for drama, music and visual arts, including dedicated music rooms and a dance studio, and it opened in 2019 with a large atrium and a glass exterior. A library was added in 2014 as part of the Learning Resource Centre. In 2024, laboratory prep rooms and ICT facilities were introduced as part of campus refurbishments.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The campus includes a large indoor sports hall and multiple gymnasia, with courts for basketball, volleyball and badminton.	Sports facilities Indoor multi-purpose hall for sports including basketball, volleyball, and badminton; a covered court; two football fields; and two swimming pools.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities A media center (library) is available, along with specialist laboratories for Biology, Physics, Chemistry, a design technology area, a visual arts room, and an ICT lab.	Academic facilities Library added in 2014 as part of the Learning Resource Centre. Laboratory prep rooms support science teaching, and ICT facilities in El Nido were updated in 2024 as part of campus refurbishments.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The enrichment program offers a broad range of after school activities across sports, arts, ICT and academics, including Basketball, Chess Club, Futsal, Dragon Art Club, Dragon Repertory, Intl Creative Dance Club, Ukulele Club, Robotics and Coding clubs, Cooking Club, and language clubs. After School Activities are refreshed each semester with online registration twice a year.	Extra curricular facilities 180+ After School Activities are offered weekly across five strands: Academic, Creative Arts, Physically Active, SIDE (Science, Innovation, Design, and Entrepreneurship), and Service & Sustainability. Primary and Senior cafeterias were refurbished as FoodiE Bistros in 2024.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Chinese International School Manila was founded in 2007 by Felicia Hung-Atienza and Maria Louisa Sian to provide an international education that combines the American Core Curriculum with a Mandarin language program across all grade levels. It began with about 20 students and 11 teachers. It expanded into a full 3–18 international school and received authorization to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in 2011. In 2022, CISM and Domuschola International School joined Global Schools Foundation, linking the Manila campus to a regional network and giving access to shared resources and best practices. The school is located on Upper McKinley Road in Taguig City's McKinley Hill area.	History The British School Manila was established in 1976 in the old Union Church with 36 students, making it the oldest not‑for‑profit international school in Manila offering British education. In 1980 the school moved to Merville, Parañaque as the student population grew to 107 students. In 1997 the school expanded to offer Key Stage 3 of Senior School, and in 2002 the Bonifacio Global City campus was inaugurated. The school was authorised to offer the IB Programme in 2003, with the first IB cohort in 2005. Royal visits included Princess Anne in 1999 and 2015, and the 40th anniversary was celebrated in 2016, followed by the opening of the Creative Arts Centre in 2019.
Community	Community CISM serves a diverse student body drawn from more than 29 nationalities. Life at CISM includes a broad co-curricular program with house events, student leadership, service learning, field trips and residential trips. School-wide community events—such as Spirit Week, Mid-Autumn Festival, United Nations Day, and Chinese New Year—invite family participation. CISM is a member of Global Schools Foundation, which provides a framework for engagement across a network of international schools.	Community The school community is diverse, with more than 950 students from over 50 nationalities across Primary and Senior School on a single campus. Home–school partnerships and close engagement with UK and Commonwealth trained teaching staff support cross‑year interaction and a family‑like atmosphere. The calendar features Whole School Assemblies, Fun Run, International Evening and Speech Day, while Guy Fawkes Night and the Summer Fete are led by the PTA to strengthen community ties.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Parent involvement at Chinese International School Manila is described through a Home-School Partnership and the Life At CISM pages, indicating formal collaboration between families and staff. There is no publicly visible standalone PTA board or page; parent engagement appears to be channeled through the Home-School Partnership rather than a traditional PTA structure. The Global Schools Foundation partnership provides a framework for cross-school collaboration and community engagement that can include families across member schools. Public event listings show family participation in annual events such as Spirit Week, Mid-Autumn Festival, United Nations Day, Chinese New Year, and Wellness Day. Enrichment and Life At programs describe parent involvement through programs, volunteering, and partnerships with staff in service-learning and field trips. Detailed PTA committees or fundraising programs are not publicly enumerated on the accessible pages.	Parent teacher association The PTA sits at the heart of BSM, focusing on sustaining a sense of belonging and organizing events that engage students, families and staff. It coordinates whole‑school occasions such as Guy Fawkes Night in Term 1 and the Summer Fete in Term 3, and supports other school events to involve parents in the life of the school. Parent Representatives and the BSM PTA work together to strengthen family–school communication and ensure timely dissemination of key messages. The SY 2024-2025 PTA committee oversees areas including Work at BSM, BSM Alumni, BSM Taguig Scholarship Programme, Community Events, and the official PTA group. Membership comprises 11 parents and two teachers, elected by the school community. The PTA aims to create moments of joy, with funds from ticket sales supporting further activities or projects such as a climbing wall, bleachers on the sports field, and garden restorations.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual CIS Manila offers an extensive After School Activities (ASA) program that includes academic enrichment, STEM, debate, and ICT-related activities. The ASA lineup changes each semester, and online registration occurs twice a year, allowing students to sample different areas of interest. Students are encouraged to participate in at least one activity to interact with peers across classes and develop new skills. Examples include Junior Math Society and Math Society, IB Biology Revision, Robotics Competition Club, Block Based Game Making, Dragon Debate Club, Dragon Chronicles, Dragon Archives, and Cubing and other academic clubs.	Academic & intellectual The After School Activities (ASA) programme offers 180+ scheduled sessions each week across five strands: Academic, Creative Arts, Physically Active, Science, Innovation, Design, and Entrepreneurship (SIDE), and Service & Sustainability. SIDE provides STEM-focused experiences such as science, design challenges, and entrepreneurial projects beyond the classroom. The school supports academic enrichment outside class time through student leadership roles and clubs, including Model United Nations. Activities Week and Trips provide residential and outdoor learning experiences that extend education beyond the classroom.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The ASA program includes arts and performance opportunities such as Dragon Art Club, Dragon Repertory, Intl Creative Dance Club, and Ukulele Club, in addition to music and drama offerings. Students can explore visual arts, performing arts, and creative expression through these clubs. The program acknowledges arts as a core component of holistic development by providing regular creative outlets alongside other disciplines.	Arts & creative BSM offers extensive arts and creative activities across music, drama, visual arts, dance, and film, supported by the Creative Arts Centre. The Visual and Performing Arts department showcases student work through displays, performances, and exhibitions, including regular concerts, theatre productions, and art events. Students participate in major events such as the BSM Summer Concert featuring orchestras, choirs, and bands, and in productions and art festivals hosted or attended by the school. The school also hosts large-scale arts events such as FOBISIA drama festivals and various school productions.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Language and culture are supported through Foreign Language Clubs (Chinese, Filipino, and Spanish Language Clubs) and the Korean Culture Club, among others. These clubs foster cultural awareness and language practice beyond the classroom. The offerings emphasize cross-cultural understanding and global citizenship as part of everyday school life.	Cultural & language Model United Nations is offered for students from Year 5 to Year 13, providing opportunities to engage in diplomacy and global issues. International evenings and other multicultural events are part of the school's community life, reflecting its diverse community. Cultural activities are integrated with student leadership and performance opportunities within the Creative Arts and broader ASA programmes.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies A broad range of recreational clubs supports social interests and hobbies, including Coding w/ Ipad, Cooking Club, Cubing Club, Storytelling Club, Toy Makers Club, and various book- and game-oriented groups. The program also includes chess, board games, and other leisure activities to complement academics and sports. This diversity provides students with informal peer networks and opportunities to develop teamwork and communication skills.	Social & hobbies The ASA programme includes a broad range of after-school clubs across academics, arts, sports, and service, with a dedicated Physically Active strand for sports and fitness. Facilities such as the indoor multi-purpose hall, covered court, two football fields, and two swimming pools support these activities. The Student Leadership programme and peer mentoring provide social development experiences, alongside coaching roles and extracurricular projects. Activities Week & Trips further enhance social engagement through group experiences and community-building activities.
Community & service	Community & service Service Learning at CIS Manila connects classroom learning with real-world impact through leadership roles, community service, internships, and field experiences. Examples include fundraising for local orphanages, assisting victims of natural disasters, environmental projects, and partnerships to support education in other regions. These activities are designed to develop civic responsibility and practical problem-solving skills.	Community & service Service & Sustainability is a dedicated ASA strand offering volunteering, charity work, and community outreach opportunities. The school emphasises partnerships with community organisations and integrates service initiatives into school life, including broad participation during events and assemblies. Community events and school-wide activities foster a sense of belonging and social responsibility among students, families, and staff.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Service Learning emphasizes leadership opportunities and work experiences or internships, helping students develop professional skills and personal interests. Students engage in leadership roles within service projects and interact with communities to apply knowledge in authentic contexts. The program aims to foster responsibility, ethical engagement, and career-awareness as part of the school's holistic development approach.	Leadership & professional BSM's Student Leadership programme runs for Year 6–Year 13, providing a platform to initiate ideas, model positive behavior, and develop problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity. In addition to the Student Council and leadership teams, students can engage in Buddying and Peer Mentoring, Sports Events & Extra Curricular Coaching, magazine editorial work, and opportunities such as TEDxBritishSchoolManila and Model United Nations. These roles cultivate leadership, communication, project management, and teamwork skills across the school community.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Health & Wellbeing program focuses on mental, emotional, social, and physical health, aiming to create a caring, inclusive, and supportive school community. It encourages students to develop resilience, self-regulation, and informed decision-making about wellbeing. Extracurricular activities and pastoral support are aligned to promote safe, healthy lifestyles and positive mental health.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Well-Being framework guides a holistic approach to health, aiming for an active and balanced lifestyle, self-regulation, belonging, and resilience. The ASA strands emphasize physical activity and wellness as part of everyday school life, supporting students' physical and mental health. Positive Education and well-being initiatives are integrated into daily practice to promote lasting healthy habits. Outdoor education, residential trips, and activities within ASA also contribute to well-being and personal growth.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the language of instruction in CIS Manila's IB programme. Mandarin is taught through a Mandarin Language programme in the Early Years and as Mandarin AB in the IB Diploma Programme, with additional IB language options including Spanish AB and Chinese B. Other languages such as Korean A Lit are available within the IB framework. Non-native English speakers receive English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, and some students may be exempt from a foreign language if appropriate.	Language provision The language of instruction at The British School Manila is English. Beyond English, the school offers Mandarin, French and Spanish as Group 2 languages in the IB Diploma Programme, with Mandarin B HL/SL, French B HL/SL, Spanish B HL/SL and Spanish ab initio SL. Students may access English language assessments and Learning Support to assist non-native English speakers.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Mandarin language instruction is integrated into CIS Manila's program. In the Early Years (Nursery to Pre-Kindergarten), all children follow a Mandarin Language programme as part of the California-aligned curriculum. In the International Baccalaureate Programme, Mandarin is offered as a course (Mandarin AB), with English remaining the language of instruction for the majority of the curriculum. The school also provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for students whose first language is not English.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs The site does not describe a separate language immersion program. Mandarin instruction is embedded from the Early Years as part of the standard program, and intercultural understanding is emphasized across the curriculum. Mandarin is also offered as an IB language course (Mandarin AB), indicating language exposure within both Mandarin and English contexts.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards The school publicly notes that it has earned 450+ Awards in Education Excellence (as part of its Global Schools Foundation affiliation). A year-by-year or award-by-award list is not published on the site. The Global Schools Group network itself is described as having over 500 prestigious awards across its member schools, providing network-wide context for accreditation and recognition.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations The Chinese International School Manila (CISM) holds several accreditation and affiliation statuses that reflect its international standards and local recognition. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) and is an IB World School, aligning its curriculum with IB standards for students aged 16–19. It is affiliated with the Council of International Schools (COIS) and with the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). The school is also affiliated with the Department of Education (DepEd) of the Philippines. In addition, CISM is a member of Global Schools Group, an initiative of Global Schools Foundation. These affiliations indicate engagement with international quality-assurance bodies and a global network of international schools.	Accreditations {
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Admissions Process 1. Initiate inquiry and arrange a visit. The school welcomes applications at all points during the year and the admissions team aims to make the process straightforward for relocating families or those already in Manila. If you would like to learn more or see the campus, contact the admissions team to set up a visit and discuss your child's fit with CIS Manila's international-baccalaureate pathway. This initial step emphasizes a personal overview and a chance to ask questions about programs, scheduling, and transition plans. 2. Prepare and submit the initial application package. Applications are submitted with a completed Application Form and a set of supporting documents. You can email scanned copies (signed and with school seals where required) to the admissions inbox to start the file. The required documents include: a completed Medical Form, Tuberculosis Screening and Physical Examination Form, Recommendation Form, birth certificate, passport pages, visa/ACR/ICR as relevant, both parents' documents, last two years of school reports, Transcript of Records, Certificate of School Attendance, three 2" x 2" photos, any special needs report, Parent Media Consent Form, and Home Language Form. 3. Admissions review, assessment, and language support options. All applicants are considered under CIS Manila's admissions guidelines. If English proficiency is not at grade level, an English-as an Additional Language (EAL) program is available with a corresponding fee. The school may also request an external educational assessment to determine additional needs. These steps help ensure appropriate class placement and support where needed. 4. Class capacity, waitlists, and placement decisions. Class sizes are fixed per grade to support learning, and when a section is full a waiting list is started. A new section may be opened by the Head of Schools after consultation with the Board of Trustees, with a maximum of two Elementary School sections per grade. The school operates on a rolling admissions basis, accepting students up until the beginning of the fourth quarter for the current year. 5. Admission decision, offer, and enrollment steps. Decisions are made by the Admissions Committee, composed of an Admissions Officer, Guidance Counselor, Director, IBDP Coordinator (when applicable), and Head of Schools. Once offered a place, families proceed to enrollment, which includes confirming attendance and beginning the payment process. The school provides an information packet with next steps for enrollment. 6. Enrollment completion and initial documentation. Upon acceptance, families complete the enrollment forms and finalize all required documents. Invoices are issued by email and fees are due prior to the admission date. Tuition can be paid annually or per semester, with other school fees discussed during the admissions process. Final enrollment requires submission of all remaining forms (including the Home Language Form) and payment of applicable fees. References: CIS Manila admissions overview and policy, including rolling admissions, waitlists, EAL program, and required documents; fee structure guidance and enrollment timelines. (turn1view0; turn2view0; turn3view0)	Admissions 1. Submit an Enquiry. Submit your enquiry via the Admissions Enquiry Form. The Admissions team will respond to your enquiry with information and the next steps in the admissions process. Applications are processed throughout the year, subject to space availability. 2. Admissions Briefing/School Visit. To ensure you have the information you need, a briefing and a school visit are offered as part of the application process. The briefing typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, while the visit lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. Because briefing and visit appointments are limited, they are scheduled in line with application priorities, and advance booking is required. 3. Submission of Application Requirements. To process the application, provide a complete application form and health record for each child, school reports covering the past two years (with a grade translation and current English/Math work if from a non-British system), and the details of your current school for online reference forms. Include copies of the child's birth certificate and passports ( Applicant and Parents ), recent photos, and an application fee payable prior to invitation for review/assessment. 4. Review of Application Requirements. The Admissions team, together with the Primary and Senior School teams, will review the submitted documents and the application form to determine readiness for assessment. This review assesses documentation completeness, language proficiency considerations, and alignment with available spaces. 5. Invitation for Assessment. An applicant will be invited to proceed with assessment if recommended after the review. Invitations are issued by the Admissions team in accordance with the school's assessment plan for the relevant year level. 6. Assessment. The assessment duration varies by year group: Nursery–Reception about 1 hour; Year 1–2 about 1–2 hours; Year 3–6 about 1.5 days; Year 7–13 about a full morning with a 15-minute interview. The school may request additional days if further assessment is recommended. 7. Decision. The Admissions team will inform families of the decision regarding their child's application, indicating whether a place is offered, the child is placed in the wait pool, or the application is declined. Wait pool placements depend on space and pass of entrance assessments.
Scholarships	Scholarships 3. Scholarships CISM offers a range of scholarships administered under the Global Schools Foundation. These scholarships cover a variety of talents and financial situations, and they operate on merit and, in many cases, family-income considerations. The scholarship programs include the Universal Values Merit Cum Means Scholarship, Global Future-Ready Merit Scholarship, 9GEMS Holistic Development Scholarship, Global Skills Scholarship, CISMP Global Sports Scholarship, and CISMP Global Citizen Scholarship. Each program has its own eligibility criteria, value, applicable grades, and application process. - Universal Values Merit Cum Means Scholarship (Grades 1–12): Provides financial assistance based on family income and academic performance (minimum 85% in past two years). Benefits range by category, with up to 80% tuition coverage for the top category. Applicants must reside in the Philippines and supply income verification and other supporting documents; the process includes a scholarship assessment and an interview if applicable, with notifications typically within four weeks after cycle closing. Terms include that recipients may not apply for other CIS scholarships and must sign a scholarship deed. (turn6view0) - Global Future-Ready Merit Scholarship (Grades 6–8 for initial eligibility; later grades 9–12): Aims to prepare students for university admission at top global universities, with a limited number of awards and tiered eligibility based on grades. Benefits include up to 15% tuition coverage in some categories, with detailed minimum grade thresholds and examination components. The scholarship process comprises online application, documentation upload, online scholarship assessment, interviews, and final notification. (turn8view0) - 9GEMS Holistic Development Scholarship (Grades 6–12): Aligns with CIS Manila's 9GEMS framework across academics, sports, leadership, arts, and universal values. Benefits vary by category, up to 60% of tuition for Category A (based on international-level achievements) and down to 7% for Category D, with eligibility requiring at least 85% average and a documented record of achievement. The process includes application, documentation uploads, potential interview, and final approval with a four-week notification window. (turn9view0) - Global Skills Scholarship (Grades 6–12): Recognizes talent in science, digital technology, and related fields. Scholarships provide 6–20% tuition coverage depending on category and achievement level (e.g., international, national, regional, interschool). Eligibility requires 85% average and relevant achievements; the process includes application, documentation upload, an interview if applicable, and notification within about four weeks. (turn12view0) - CISMP Global Sports Scholarship (Grades 7–12): Targets athletic achievement across a wide range of sports with up to 100% tuition coverage in Category A and down to 20% in Category F, based on criteria tied to national/international representation and results. Applicants provide supporting documents and undergo a scholarship assessment and interview, with final notification about four weeks after cycle close. (turn11view0) - CISMP Global Citizen Scholarship (International students): A regional scholarship offering substantial funding for up to two years of Grade 11–12, with eligibility based on prior exam results (e.g., high marks), online scholarship assessments, and multiple interview rounds. The award is capped and requires documentation and a scholarship deed; notification is provided to successful applicants. (turn10view0) Notes: Each scholarship has its own specific eligibility criteria, cycles, and terms. Documentation requirements typically include recent academic records, income verification if relevant, and evidence of achievements. The Global Schools Foundation serves as the umbrella through which these scholarships are offered at CIS Manila. (turn5view0; turn6view0; turn8view0; turn9view0; turn12view0; turn11view0; turn10view0)	Scholarships BSM Taguig Scholarship Programme (BSMTSP). The British School Manila operates the BSM Taguig Scholarship Programme to help excellent, but financially disadvantaged Senior High School and college students in Taguig obtain higher education from the top schools in Metro Manila. The programme provides augmented services and supports scholars with seminars/workshops and pastoral guidance, and the committee monitors career movements after graduation to support ongoing development. Current scholars are being supported by the programme, and the initiative has supported scholars for about 20 years. Since it began, the programme has funded a total of 55 scholars, with 24 current scholars noted on the page.
Waitlist	Waitlist 2. Waitlist/Pool - The school uses a rolling admissions process, and when a class or section reaches capacity a waiting list is started. This helps CIS Manila manage intake while maintaining class sizes and program quality. - If demand remains high, the Head of Schools may approve opening an additional section after consulting with the Board of Trustees. For Elementary grades, a maximum of two sections per grade is allocated. - These waitlist and capacity controls are designed to preserve the school's intended student-to-teacher ratios and learning environment while allowing continued access for relocating families. (turn2view0)	Waitlist Wait Pool and Admissions Priority. A wait pool process is in place. Once admissions by year level have reached the maximum class size, the following Admissions Priority Procedures apply, subject to the student applicant successfully completing the entrance assessment. Priority categories determine order of consideration: Category 1 – Dependents of British diplomats and Commonwealth diplomats; Category 2 – Commonwealth nationals resident in the Philippines by expatriate employment status; Category 3 – Siblings of enrolled students not in Category 1 or 2; Category 4 – Dependents of families not included in Categories 1–3.
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