The British International School Abu Dhabi

The school follows the English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), and the BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma. The learning approach is built on six core educational pillars with personalised learning to nurture growth. The STEAM program with MIT and collaborations with UNICEF and The Juilliard School connect classroom learning to real‑world contexts. In 2025, the IBDP average score was 34.1 points, and GCSE results show 52% of students achieving grades 7–9.

The Juilliard School collaboration provides high‑quality performing arts education. Facilities include state‑of‑the‑art dance studios, music suites, and an auditorium for performances. The Creative Technology Zone supports arts‑integrated learning across STEAM. Students perform and study with world‑class instrumentalists as part of the program.

The BIS Abu Dhabi community represents families from over 90 nationalities. Arabic is taught as part of the core curriculum, with French, Spanish, and German available as additional languages in IGCSE. Muslim students study Islamic studies as part of the IGCSE program. All lessons are taught in English.

There are close to 200 co‑curricular activities. Activities include building model Formula 1 cars on the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix track, Harry Potter, British Sign Language, Lego robotics, and basketball clubs. The activities engage diverse interests and encourage teamwork.

The school collaborates with UNICEF and participates in Nord Anglia's global Student Summit, focusing on UN SDGs. The BISAD Diploma promotes honesty, kindness and social responsibility, with Personal, Social and Moral Education embedded across the curriculum. Students support local causes, including Ramadan initiatives, beach clean‑ups, and outreach expeditions to Tanzania.

Students have opportunities to develop leadership and professional skills through debates, presentations and Student Council activities. The school supports teacher professional development through the Nord Anglia University platform and partnerships with Evidence Based Education and the UK National College, including ongoing action research and training. A needs‑based professional learning fund supports pathways such as IB training, coaching qualifications, and Mental Health First Aid.

The campus features advanced facilities, including dance studios, music suites, science labs, a state‑of‑the‑art auditorium, air‑conditioned sports halls, indoor swimming pools and expansive outdoor fields. Personal, Social and Moral Education is embedded across the curriculum to support wellbeing. A broad range of sports and outdoor activities promotes physical health, resilience, and wellbeing.