The British International School Istanbul

PSHCE is the backbone of BIS Istanbul's curriculum, prioritising character and personal well-being. PSHCE is delivered across the whole school using the National Curriculum and Guiding Statements, with a modified SEAL-GD program where applicable. In Early Years, Personal, Social and Emotional Development covers self-confidence and self-awareness, managing feelings, and making relationships. Weekly assemblies support PSHCE themes and Stars of the Week recognise positive behaviours. In Primary, SEAL-GD objectives are embedded across the curriculum and reinforced through assemblies led by curriculum coordinators and teachers; ESL support helps all students access the program.

The Learning Support Department works with classroom teachers and parents to support children with special needs. The process begins at enrollment and includes Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and meetings. As students progress, teachers liaise with parents and the SEN department about concerns. Services available include formal monitoring and IEPs, with Learning Support staff collaborating with external Educational Psychologists, Speech Therapists and other professionals. The school serves a diverse international student body and provides pull-out and push-in support as well as Booster Classes and Learning Support across the curriculum.

An English as an Additional Language (EAL) program is provided to help non-native English speakers access the curriculum. German, Spanish, French and Turkish are also offered as foreign languages. EAL support helps students integrate and succeed academically.

Mental wellbeing is supported by BIS Istanbul's safeguarding and wellbeing framework, including a School Guidance Counselor. The Secondary Guidance Counselor is the point of contact, promoting a culture where students feel valued and can approach staff for support. The school has a dedicated school nurse at both the Zekeriyaköy and City Campuses to address health needs. Guidance & Counselling staff emphasise that students should feel confident and comfortable talking to staff. The PSHCE curriculum further supports emotional, social, and physical health.

BISI has a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy designed to safeguard and promote welfare. The policy designates Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) and uses CPOMS as a central record keeping system for safeguarding concerns. The policy states the school's core safeguarding principles: safeguarding and promoting welfare, ensuring safety, and that all staff and volunteers protect students from abuse and neglect. It requires staff training, safe recruitment, and clear reporting procedures; it also covers digital safeguarding, child protection case management, and working with external services. The policy emphasises creating a safe, welcoming environment where students are respected, valued and can thrive.