British International School Belgrade

Fluency in English is emphasized. The official language of BIS Belgrade is English, and English is the language of instruction. The vast majority of communications are in English or Serbian, and English immersion is supported with English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision when needed. 1. Information pack will be sent to parents. Parents and child may wish to tour the school. The information pack explains BIS's admissions process and school environment. Tours enable prospective families to observe students at work and to meet the Head of Primary/Secondary and Head of School to experience BIS's ethos. 2. Optional trial day is available. The trial day offers the student a chance to experience BIS's routines and teaching style before a formal decision is made. It helps BIS assess how well the student fits with BIS's environment. The option is part of the initial application process. 3. Application form – Appendix 1. The application form is completed and sent to BIS. 4. References are sent to the current school. The application is in progress at this stage and students are not yet accepted. 5. References and reports are reviewed by a senior member of staff. The school decides whether to progress the application or halt it. If halted at this stage, the student may apply again in one term. 6. Written or online assessments. The GL assessment programme is used. Secondary pupils sit Maths and English tests; Primary pupils sit CAT4 assessments. The tests are usually sent to the current school and carried out under supervision. 7. Parent and Student Interview. Parents and students may be invited to attend a further meeting, which may discuss how BIS can best support the child and may involve a short student interview. 8. Meeting with the AEND coordinator. The Additional Educational Needs Coordinator will discuss the student's needs and plan support as needed. 9. Application assessment. A senior member of staff reviews the application; if successful, a start date is agreed and the student joins BIS; if not successful, the application is rejected. 10. AEND-related processes. If necessary, the AEND coordinator may contact the previous school to obtain information; additional assessments may be conducted; information will be shared with relevant staff. If external support is required, the costs may be charged to the parent. 11. ESL support. The English as a Second Language (ESL) programme is provided free of charge to students whose English proficiency needs bringing up to the required standard. 12. Transition planning. Following discussion with parents, it may be necessary to write an individual transition plan to determine how to meet the child's needs and what staff training may be required.