France, Bordeaux
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Founded in 1987, Bordeaux International School has operated as an SCOP (Educational Cooperative) since 1999. The BIS SCOP was founded by Christine Cussac and is built on a collaborative, democratic model in which employees are associates and decisions are made according to the principle 'one person, one vote'. The school emphasizes bilingual education and intercultural learning, with small class sizes of 16 students per level to support individual growth. BIS aims to develop open‑minded global citizens through innovative teaching and a diverse, international environment.
BIS is a close-knit international community with more than 40 nationalities represented, celebrating differences and ensuring every student feels at home and valued. Diversity is celebrated and cultivated, encouraging dialogue and guiding us toward a harmonious global society. The school provides opportunities for intercultural exchanges and uses a Personal, Social, Global Skills (PSGS) programme alongside tailored learning approaches to suit different profiles. The community emphasizes equity and inclusion, ensuring fair opportunities for all students.
The PTA brings together parents, teachers and management. The PTA board proposes initiatives and guides the Association's activities in collaboration with the school management. The PTA's mission is to foster community spirit and work together to provide the best possible educational environment for our pupils. PTA members welcome new families and organise family events outside the school, while also supporting fundraising. Regular events include the International Buffet, Halloween and Christmas parties, Sports Day and bake sales. Parents are invited to attend meetings, morning coffees and various events throughout the year.
Bordeaux International School (BIS) is a bilingual international school in central Bordeaux serving ages 3–18. The curriculum uses Cambridge International Education as its framework, and BIS has been an official Cambridge centre since 1991, delivering Cambridge IGCSE, AS and A Levels with most subjects taught in English and exams available in students' home language where possible. The bilingual English–French programme runs across Early Learning, Primary and Middle School, while Upper School follows Cambridge pathways. BIS operates as an SCOP (Educational Cooperative) since 1999, founded in 1987, and uses a democratic four‑house system (Cousteau, Montesquieu, Alienor, Rosa Bonheur). Class sizes are small (10–12 in Early Learning; 16 in Primary and Secondary). Facilities include four sections with dedicated learning spaces, a new Art studio (2023), a Dance and Drama studio, and an on-site canteen; a nearby sports centre provides an Olympic pool, track and tennis courts. BIS also administers SATs and offers extensive clubs and trips to foster international-mindedness and leadership.