prospectus 2018-19 · ü full member of the council of british international schools (cobis) and...
TRANSCRIPT
2018/19
© All text and pictures copyright (c) BIS 2018
Our students come from diplomatic families stationed in Serbia, families who are here on contracts within international
companies, Serbian families returning from living overseas and local families who realise the benefits their children will gain
from an English language education.
This eclectic mix offers our students true internationalization within their academic and pastoral education.
Over the years our students have come from a wide range
of countries: Algeria, Angola, Australia, Belgium, Brazil,
Canada, Czech Republic, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Egypt,
Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Ghana, Greece,
Holland, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy,
Japan, Jordan, Korea, Lithuania, Malaysia, Montenegro,
Myanmar, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Pakistan,
Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland,
Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of
America, Zimbabwe.
How to contact BIS?
Smetanina 12, 11040 Belgrade, SerbiaTel: +381 11 3066096Fax: +381 11 3674851e-mail: [email protected]
How to find BIS?
FOUNDEDIN 1997
BRITISHINTERNATIONAL
SCHOOL
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Welcome to the British International School, Belgrade (BIS).
BIS is at the centre of a thriving and supportive community - a happy, challenging and forward-looking school.
Enriched by our cultural diversity and proud of our curriculum and ethos, we are committed to the highest
standards in all that we do. Whatever your enquiry - as an individual, a company or an organisation - we are
always here to help and we look forward to welcoming you to our school.
This package provides detailed information about the programmes we offer, the activities we provide and our
examinations systems. However, the following points summarise the main aspects that we feel are important
and should help you to decide if BIS is the right choice for your family:
ü A tradition of individual education to the highest standards
ü A quality, accredited curriculum with an international dimension
ü Well-qualified and dedicated teachers
ü Superb sporting facilities
ü Accreditated by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Development of the Republic of Serbia
ü Internationally recognised qualifications issued by Cambridge Assessment International Education and the University of Nebraska Lincoln
ü Full Member of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) and European Council of International Schools (ECIS)
ü A safe and caring environment
ü An emphasis upon courtesy, self-discipline and mutual respect
ü Professional support for students entering from other educational systems
ü Skilful tuition in English and encouragement of other languages, including French, German and Spanish
ü Professional help for children with special educational needs
ü Wide range of extra curricular activities
ü Welcome assistance for families arriving and leaving Serbia
We look forward to welcoming you to BIS and providing a quality education for your children.
Aleksandra Keserovic Ian Davies Principal Deputy Principal
BIS Prospectus
Government of the Republic of Serbia
Ministry of Education, Science and
Technological Development
Contents
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ABOUT BIS
History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
20th Anniversary Celebration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Educational Ethos. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Parents, Teachers and Friends Association (PTF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
BIS Annual Charity Event . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
SECONDARY SCHOOL
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Computer Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Pastoral activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Student Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Clubs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
The Duke of Edinburgh International Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Students helping Charityes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Assessment and Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Homework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Parent Teacher Evenings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Secondary School Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Individual Learning Programme & Special Educational Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Study Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Life beyond BIS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
PRIMARY SCHOOL
Caring for our Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Curriculum and Learning Programme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Key Stage 2 (Years 3, 4, 5 and 6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Homework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
English as a Second Language (ESL). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Assessment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Primary School Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Mathletics and SuperMathlete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Computers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
APPLYING FOR ADMISSION
Admission Conference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
About BIS
BIS began as the International High School Belgrade, co-founded in 1997 by Aleksandra Keserovic, a local
teacher and professional vocalist, and the late Dr Jonathan Rider. Being the first international secondary school
in Serbia based on the English language BIS was in the position to accommodate children of the diplomatic
corps, foreign business families, as well as local children interested in schooling in the English language and
wanting to attend universities worldwide.
In 2003 with the change of name to the British International School, reflecting a change to the British curriculum
and the addition of the Primary School, BIS became able to accept students from 4 to 19 years old.
BIS currently occupied three campuses. Upper Secondary students are in a beautiful building in Smetanina
which offers a range of practical rooms to suit all our class sizes, and allows for a large Resource Centre, as well
as two large computer rooms, and a smaller computer room.
With the school continuing to increase the student body in September 2015 BIS opened a campus in Palackova
very close to our Upper Secondary Campus. This is used by our Key Stage 3 students: those in Years 7, 8 and 9.
The BIS Primary campus, in Uzicka, is exceptionally suitable for the students, given its closed off environment
with a large outdoor space. The size of the playground allows for many outdoor activities such as football,
basketball, climbing frame, swings, seesaws and two pergolas for rest and/or group activities. Students can
enjoy on-site swimming lessons with a professional swimming instructor.
BIS is accredited by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Development of the Republic of Serbia is
a Full Member of both the European Council of International Schools (ECIS) and the Council of British
International Schools (COBIS). BIS is a registered Cambridge Assessment International Education Centre
(EA011) and delivers their A and AS levels, IGCSEs, as well as Cambridge Checkpoint examinations.
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BIS Prospectus
School Motto
Success Comes to He Who Works
Meret Qui Laborat
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About BIS
Aleksandra KeserovicPrincipal
Dr Branislava KeserovicBoard Chairperson
Marina Gozze PujevicSenior Teacher Secondary
Alexander BourdillonSenior Teacher Primary
Ian DaviesDeputy Principal
Management
The Principal, Aleksandra Keserovic, was educated at the University of Belgrade, receiving a Master of Arts in
Musicology. She is a qualified teacher and an accomplished professional vocalist. Ms Keserovic was the co-
founder of IHSB along with the late Dr Jonathan Rider.
Dr Branislava Keserovic is Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Finance Director of the school. She holds a
doctorate in biological science from the University of Belgrade.
The Deputy Principal Ian Davies qualified at Edinburgh University. He has a masters degree in Politics and
Modern History (Hons). He has taught in the UK, the USA, Israel, South Korea and here in Serbia.
The Primary Senior teacher Alexander Bourdillon has a BA in Politics and International Relations from the
University of Essex. He gained his teaching qualification from Anglia Ruskin University and has taught in both
the UK and Serbia.
The Secondary Senior teacher Marina Gozze Pujevic graduated from the Civil Engineering University in
Belgrade. Before joining BIS, she designed a number of industrial, residential and engineering objects and was
the project manager on major thermal power plants. She teaches mathematics and physics.
20th Anniversary CelebrationOn 13 June 2017, BIS celebrated its 20th Anniversary and Graduation of the 20th generation of the BIS students
at the City Hall of Belgrade.
HE Mr Denis Keefe, CMG, the British Ambassador to Serbia was the Guest of Honour, and we are grateful that he
presented our graduates with their certificates and for giving a speach. The guests were numerous
Ambassadors, Embassy representatives, parents and various guests who helped to make this evening so
special.
There were also speeches by former BIS students who reflected on their experiences at BIS. The programme
was embellished with Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 choirs, with the Principal, Ms Keserovic leading the Key Stage
3 choir. After the programme, all the guest enjoyed the cocktail on the City Hall terrace which was followed by a
dinner for the graduates and their guests at the City Hall restaurant.
We wish all the best to our 20th generation of graduates, who have been accepted by the universities in the UK,
USA and Serbia.
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BIS Prospectus
7
About BIS
Educational EthosBIS students are set and expected to meet, high achievement goals in both personal and academic development
within a supportive environment. Each student is encouraged to strive for academic excellence through the
development of essential skills in critical thinking, acquiring and applying knowledge, working independently
and collaboratively, and effective communication.
Overall, our purpose is to assist students to develop their commitment to life-long learning in preparation for
further study pathways and roles as citizens and leaders in their homes, at work and in their communities.
ü BIS provides a happy, nurturing, caring and secure environment where each student is helped to feel
equally important and is encouraged to achieve his or her maximum potential in all aspects of school
life. The personal and social development of our students underpins all teaching and learning
activities at BIS where we:
ü encourage tolerance, respect and sensitivity towards others;
ü create opportunities for development of student leadership, and student participation in school and
community activities;
ü provide guidance to help students make informed decisions, live healthy lives and deal with the
moral, social and cultural issues they will face as they approach adulthood;
ü and promote an understanding of the global society in which we live.
When you visit our school, you will see our ethos in evidence. We are proud of our students' abilities to work
hard, create positive relationships and develop new skills and knowledge with enthusiasm. We believe that
children learn best when they are actively involved and interested. We also believe a child's school experiences
should promote a natural curiosity and interest in the world around them where learning is exciting, challenging
and fun!
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BIS Prospectus
2017 Primary Christmas Production: Oliver!
2017 Secondary Christmas Production
We recognise the importance of the home/school partnership for successful education. Parents must become
actively involved in their child's learning. To achieve this both the school and the parents need to:
ü have open communication about what the school is trying to achieve;
ü have a shared vision and share information about what is being taught and how policies are put into
practice;
ü share current events and news through our website and other social media avenues as well as direct
communication;
ü recognize the school is a family environment where everyone is welcome and encouraged to contribute
to the life of the school.
We encourage parental involvement through:
ü welcoming parents who visit the school;
ü encouraging parental help in a variety of class based activities;
ü encouraging parents to be part of the Parents, Teachers and Friends Association;
ü liaising closely with parents at all times regarding their child's progress through school subject diaries and
both formal and informal parent-teacher consultations.
As an international school, BIS values the many different nationalities represented here and we encourage all
students to be proud of their own culture and to celebrate and enjoy the traditions, languages and cultures of
others.
Our approach arises out of the best of the United Kingdom state and independent education systems, as well as
best practices in international education.
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About BIS
Students benefit from small class sizes
Secondary Classroom
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BIS Prospectus
Parents, Teachers and Friends Association (PTF)
BIS values close co-operation with the parental body. The PTF brings parents together to strengthen the vital
link between home and school. All parents are automatically members of the PTF and their involvement in
school activities is encouraged. The PTF organises meetings and forums on educational matters and other
issues of interest to parents thus enabling them to gain a greater understanding of school policies. Teachers and
Management also get the opportunity to hear the views of parents. The PTF's fundraising social events are great
fun and very popular. The PTF gives parents a real place in the school community.
2017 BIS “Spring Fantasy Festival” Charity Event
The BIS school community and friends of our school had a great time on Saturday, 20 May at our traditional
spring charity event. In 2017, the event was called “Spring Fantasy Festival”, and all visitors had the opportunity
to enjoy excellent international food, goods and children’s games. Some of the luckiest ones won valuable raffle
prizes. The whole atmosphere of the event was in the spirit of the Middle Ages. The atmosphere was enhanced
by the casual layout of the venue with the emphasis on entertainment. There were the usual favourites – a
fashion parade, songs by children from the Primary School as well as a delightful display of dancing by young
children dressed in traditional Serbian costumes, energetic Salsa, Capoeira and Flamenco dancing by a local
groups.
The proceeds of the event have been dedicated for purchasing beds and equipment for one of the pavilions of
the Institute for Children and Youth, “Sremcica”.
BIS Annual Charity Event
SecondarySchool
About BIS
Overview
At the BIS, we offer a caring and high quality education for the international and local communities of Belgrade
in a secure environment on our unique campus. We have high personal and academic expectations for our
students and are proud of the varied and challenging learning opportunities that are provided for them. We
prepare our students for UK IGCSE, AS and A level examinations, at ages 16, 17 and 18 respectively. As a result,
all of our students are provided with an education that prepares them to enter a schooling system anywhere, as
well as to universities in Europe and elsewhere throughout the world.
Students from ages 12 to 14 complete a three year programme of study in an wide range of subjects to prepare
them for later years.
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) has been developed for 14 to 16 year
olds. It aims to prepare students for further academic success, including progression to AS and A Level study,
and equip them with skills for immediate employment. It is recognised as evidence of ability by academic
institutions and employers worldwide. It gives a wide, varied and balanced programme of study, written with an
international audience in mind whose first language may not be English. It provides a balanced mix of practical
experience and theoretical knowledge, taking account of differing abilities through a choice between Core and
Extended curriculum papers. Students are rewarded for positive achievement based on Knowledge and
Understanding, Application of Knowledge and Problem Solving Skills.
Secondary School
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Secondary students during a Science lesson
BIS Prospectus
At AS level, students retain an element of breadth as well as depth in their studies. At A2 level, subject choices
are further refined and are used as qualification for university entrance.
As an alternative option to the British Curriculum in Years 12 and 13 students can choose to follow the American-
style curriculum offered by the University of Nebraska Lincoln Independent Study High School, and graduate
from BIS with an accredited and internationally recognised American High School Diploma.
The University of Nebraska High School Diploma is recognised by all the American and Canadian universities, as
well as other Universities throughout the world.
The Secondary school is committed to ensuring that each student has the best possible opportunity to achieve
his or her potential.
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The Secondary School
Art lesson
Mathematics lesson
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9)
The work done in Years 7, 8 and 9 is subject-based and follows the UK National Curriculum guidelines in all
areas. The focus of the National Curriculum, together with the wider school curriculum, is to ensure that pupils
develop, from an early age, the essential skills they need to learn, to provide them with a full and rounded
education, to foster their creativity, and to give teachers discretion in finding the best ways to inspire in their
pupils a joy and commitment to learning.
Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 follow a general curriculum that includes:
ü English/English as a Second Language (ESL)
ü Mathematics
ü Integrated Science
ü Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE)
ü History
ü Geography
ü Computing
Integrated with their academic programme is a wide range of extracurricular activities that are offered to KS3
students during school hours.
At the end of Year 9 students sit the Cambridge Checkpoint examinations in English, Maths and Science. These
are the equivalent of the Standard Attainment Tests (SATs) in the UK.
Students make their IGCSE choices in the Spring/early Summer of Year 9.
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ü Modern Foreign Languages (French, German
Spanish or Chinese)
ü Serbian Studies/Cultural Studies (Year 7/8)
ü Art and Design
ü Music
ü Physical Education (PE)
ü Global Perspectives
Serbian Studies Lesson
BIS Prospectus
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)
During Years 10 and 11, students study a number of core subjects and choose additional subjects to make up
their timetable. This two year programme culminates in students being externally accredited in their IGCSE
examinations through Cambridge Assessment International Education. Solid pass grades at IGCSE level are
required for entry into the A level programme.
Compulsory:
ü English Language/ESL
ü Mathematics
ü Two or three Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics)
ü ICT or Computer Science
ü Modern Foreign Languages (French, German, Spanish, Chinese)
ü PE
Elective:
ü History or Chemistry
ü Geography or Physics
ü Music or Biology
ü Art or Business Studies
Students in Years 10 and 11 are actively encouraged to participate in one of the BIS sports teams. Their PE mark
is based on each student's regular attendance and performance. In addition to their academic programme, Year
10 and 11 students are offered a number of extracurricular activities during school hours.
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The Secondary School
Artwork by Secondary students
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Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13)
Within the Cambridge programme, students in Year 12 would normally study four AS Level
subjects. Students in Year 13 will generally continue with at least three subjects to A Level.
Subject choices are based on the electives prepared by the school. Accreditation at A level is
accepted worldwide and provides entrance qualifications to universities in over 200 countries.
Subject Options:
ü Art
ü Biology
ü Business Studies
ü Chemistry
ü Computing
ü Economics
ü English Language
ü French
ü German
ü Spanish
ü Chinese
ü History
ü ICT
ü Mathematics
ü Music
ü Physics
ü Psychology
ü Thinking Skills
Students not following the Cambridge programme would be entered for the University of Nebraska curriculum in
Years 12 and 13 which includes the following subjects:
ü American History 1 and 2
ü American Government
ü Career Planning
ü Personal Finance
ü World Culture
We are also affiliated with external agencies who offer TOEFL, SAT and other accredited examinations.
BIS Prospectus
Year 12 Physics lesson
Computer Suites
As well as every classroom having at least one computer BIS has three computer suites, all fully networked
Windows PCs with the Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Software amongst others.
Permanent Internet connection and centralized file server are used for school management and learning
purposes. Computers are used in a wide number of subjects.
The school hosts a resource centre with computers to meet the needs of students, stocked with curriculum
based texts, research materials and general reading books in English as well as areas for private study and
computer based research.
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The Secondary School
The computer laboratories are always available to studentsfor supervised work and discrete ICT lessons
Pastoral Activities
Beyond the daily life of BIS, students are encouraged to join many pastoral activities that take place throughout
the year. Students actively engage in these activities allowing them to make cross-curricular connections and
meaningful use of the skills they have acquired within BIS.
The list of annual events include: ”Meet the World” project, Student Council activities, World Poetry Day, field trips
to various museums, exhibits and monasteries, Christmas Productions, Art Exhibition, UN Day Celebration,
Excursion Week, Community Service activities.
Secondary Halloween Party Visit to German Cultural Centre
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ClubsA range of extra-curricular activities is offered at BIS,
which are great fun, but also have their links with
curriculum areas. The range of clubs required varies from
term to term so details of current clubs may be obtained
from the school administration. Examples include drama,
choir, table tennis, swimming, basketball, the 'brain drain'
club, Filmmaking, African Art, etc.
BIS Filmmaking Club
Football match against another international school
School Council
Students helping out at the BIS “Spring Fantasy” Festival
Leadership is one of the main tenets of the BIS philosophy and so student
participation in school management is viewed as an important and vital
component of school life. As one of the most important purposes of
education is to prepare young people to become active and informed
citizens of the communities in which they live, it is essential that students
are given meaningful opportunities to participate in the governance of the
school community.
Student Council representatives from Years 7 to 13 are elected by students
and represent all the students in the school. The Council helps arrange the
study tours and other social events, as well as being a
voice on issues, that concern them.
BIS Prospectus
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The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award
BIS students climbing a rockat Borski Stol
BIS has been granted the sole Individual Operators license for
this prestigious UK award in Serbia, which was initiated by H.R.H.
Prince Phillip. The Award is an exciting self-development
programme available to all young people aged 14-25 whose
concept is one of individual challenge designed to encourage
young people to develop into responsible, active citizens who will
positively contribute towards society. It presents a balanced, non-
competitive and enjoyable programme of voluntary activities
which encourage personal discovery and growth, self-reliance,
perseverance, responsibility and service to the community.
The Award covers four areas of study: Service, Expedition
Adventurous Tour, Skills and Physical Recreation at three different
levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold.
BIS awards all levels with overseeing all awards from the
International Secretariat in London. Students are encouraged to
enrol for this award at all levels.
Students helping Charities
Tour of the Royal compound as part of“Children helping Children” campaign
BIS organises various activities in order to motivate
and help its students develop into responsible
citizens of the world. Each year the school supports a
charity organised by their Royal Highnesses Crown
Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine
Karadjordjevic in collecting toys for children from
Belgrade’s orphanages.
Students and Staff in the Secondary School raised
money by wearing their sport shirts on “Football Shirt
Friday” and donated to The Bobby Moore Fund for
Cancer Research UK.
The Secondary School
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Sports
BIS supports participation in many local sports competitions, and exposes its students to various sports
activities. Below students are enjoying rugby, football, volleyball and ice-skating at professional venues.
BIS Prospectus
21
Assessment and Reporting
Assessment and reporting of every student's progress is undertaken throughout the year and the information is
used to plan future teaching and learning schedules. Target setting has become an important facet of reporting
and encourages students to assume responsibility for their own learning. All students receive written end of
term reports. Parents are encouraged to use these to support students in their progress throughout the school
year. The education of a child is a partnership between student, parents and teachers and solid progress is
based on good communication between these parties.
Homework
Homework is important in its own right and should be seen as a normal and regular aspect of school life and an
important and essential part of learning. Its purpose is to provide activities, which link work in the classroom to
planned activities at home, thus encouraging parental involvement in students learning. Students receive
regular homework assignments.
Parents are expected to support their child during this period by making available a suitable area at home in
which to complete homework undisturbed. Parents may also wish to be available themselves to assist with
homework but should not complete the homework for the student. Students who regularly fail to complete
homework will be disciplined and parents will be contacted to discuss the issue.
Parent Teacher Evenings
Parent Teacher Evenings are scheduled throughout the year. They offer a valuable opportunity for staff and
parents to meet and discuss students' progress and targets. Dates of these evenings are published in the
academic calendar.
Examinations
Cambridge 'mock' exams for Years 9, 11, 12 and
13 take place in January and the Cambridge
Checkpoint, IGCSE and A level examinations
take place in November and May/June of each
year. In addition to Cambridge external
examinations, internal assessments of students'
performance are carried out by the teachers
throughout the academic year.
Secondary students’ posterof “Djavolja Varos”
The Secondary School
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Secondary School Day
School commences promptly at 08.30 hrs. Lessons are of 40 minutes duration for Secondary students with eight
lessons per day. Students who are late for registration and/or classes may receive a 'detention' in line with the
BIS Discipline Policy.
SECONDARY TIME SCHEDULE
08.30 – 08.45 Registration
08.45 – 09.25 Lesson 1
09.25 – 10.05 Lesson 2
10.05 – 10.20 Morning Break
10.20 – 11.00 Lesson 3
11.00 – 11.40 Lesson 4
11.40 – 12.10 Lunchtime Break
12.10 – 12.15 Registration
12.15 – 12.55 Lesson 5
12.55 – 13.35 Lesson 6
13.35 – 13.50 Afternoon Break
13.50 – 14.30 Lesson 7
14.30 – 15.10 Lesson 8
Individual Learning Programme & Special Educational Needs
BIS believes in an entitlement to education for all students. Therefore, students will be assessed as to their
individual needs and be advised accordingly whether BIS can meet their requirements. Students of any age with
Special Educational Needs (diagnosed or non-diagnosed) are highlighted by their teachers who will then advise
whether special programmes of study are required, either on a one-to-one basis or in the form of in-class
support. In this case, BIS will arrange such additional support on an individual basis. Decisions regarding the
admission of a student with Special Needs remain at the discretion of the Principal.
BIS also provides extra support to facilitate the students' integration into the school system and prepare them
for examinations in English as a Second Language. Given the international composition of the school's student
body, the work of this department is vital in making it possible for students entering the school, with little or no
command of English, to benefit from the full curriculum as soon as possible. From the beginning, students
following an extensive ESL programme take practical subjects and physical education with their normal classes
to assist with integration. Students are given intensive English language help in small groups, following an
individual programme. Students quickly develop an enthusiastic attitude and a high commitment to
improvement. In this, careful planning and skilled teaching support them.
Peace poster created by Year 7 students for Ana Lwho took it to the UN in New York
BIS Prospectus
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Study Tours
Each year Secondary students are taken on an annual study tour to a foreign country. Field trips within Serbia
are also organised for Secondary students.
Italy, 2014 Holland, 2015
The Secondary School
Scandinavia, 2016 Russia, 2017
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l Academy of Fine Arts, Belgrade, Serbia
l American University of Rome, Italy
l Barcelona Marketing School, Spain
l Berkley University, USA
l Bocconi University, Milan, Italy
l Bridgeport University, Connecticut, USA
l Chaminade University, Hawaii, USA
l Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, USA
l European Business School of London, UK
l European University of Barcelona, Spain
l Faculty of Economics, Budapest, Hungary
l Faculty of International Business, Belgrade, Serbia
l Faculty of Philology, Belgrade, Serbia
l Franklin College, Lugano, Switzerland
l Huron University, London, UK
l Intercollege, Nicosia, Cyprus
l London School of Economics, UK
l Loyolla College, USA
l Macmaster University, Hamilton, Canada
l Medical Univesty of Vienna, Austria
l Megatrend University, Belgrade, Serbia
l New York University, USA
l Otawa Algonquin College, Canada
l Oxford University, UK
l Rice University in Huston, USA
l Richmond University, London, UK
l Sarah Lowrens College, USA
l Schiller University, Heidelberg, Germany
l School of International and Public Relations, Prague, Czech Republic
l Sorbone Univesity, Paris, France
l St. Louis University, Madrid, Spain
l St. Peter's College, USA
l UCLA, USA
l University of Aberdeen, UK
l University of Edinburgh, UK
l University of Boston, USA
l Sheffield University, Thessaloniki, Greece
Students receive every encouragement to plan their futures in a constructive and positive manner, basing
their considerations and decisions on sound information, relevant experience and an understanding of
themselves in terms of aptitudes, abilities and needs. The school supports students by providing advice and
guidance on suitable careers and the choice of universities.
The school supports students to research possible university options, develop a list of universities that
provide a good ”fit” for the students, and submit their applications in a thorough and timely fashion.
Life Beyond BIS
Students in the school's history have gained places at the following institutions:
Graduation Ceremony
BIS Prospectus
PrimarySchool
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Caring for our Children
Our students join us from all over the world
making BIS a truly international school. It is a
non-selective school with students joining and
leaving throughout the academic year as
parents move on in their careers. Teachers are
well used to this student movement and
handle the 'new child' with considerable
expertise and sensitivity.
Students are placed in classes of mixed
nationality groups with a maximum of 16
pupils. The class teacher may often group the
students by ability or set for specific subjects.
High standards of work and behaviour are expected and maintained within an atmosphere of shared harmony,
respect and concern for each individual child. It is our aim to help and encourage all students to fully achieve
their potential.
Primary students learning to say"Good morning" in different
languages
BIS Prospectus
Primary Students visit the Asimo robot presentation
Primary Students designing T-shirtsfor a Cheerleaders Club
Curriculum and Learning Programme
The academic programme for all students follows the British National Curriculum, adapted for our international
setting. Students will study Numeracy (Mathematics), Literacy (English), Science, Computing, Geography,
History, Design and Technology, Art, Music and PE. In Key Stage 2 Primary students follow the Cambridge
International Programme for Mathematics, English and Science. This culminates with formal checkpoint
examinations in Year 6 that are externally marked by Cambridge (these being the equivalent of the UK SATs).
The curriculum is delivered through themes in the earlier years, gradually leading to more subject-based
approaches for the older year groups. The primary teachers ensure that the curriculum is progressive and
continuous from age 4 to 11 years. The breadth, depth and balance are closely monitored.
Primary is organised according to UK national curriculum year groups within Key Stages 1 & 2.
The teaching staff are trained and recruited from the UK.
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Primary School
Visit to cave at Gradac
Students perform Shakespeare
BIS Prospectus
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Reception
At this stage students who are 4 to 5 years old are being prepared for their life at school. The curriculum content
is based around learning through play and acquiring the basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2)
Students enter Key Stage 1 in Year 1, at the start of the academic year during which they will be six years old.
During Year 2 students will be seven years old.
In Key Stage 1 students will begin to acquire and develop reading, writing and number skills in addition to
experiencing all the subjects that are described under the Curriculum and Learning programme. The students
enjoy a variety of physical and musical activities. Throughout Key Stage 1 a qualified assistant, who is also a
Serbian speaker, assists the teacher providing help with both individual and group activities .
The Key Stage 1 curriculum is delivered through a topic approach. Specific schemes of work outline the
progressive skills that are taught at this age and all work is closely monitored to ensure that pupils are making
progress matched to their abilities. In the case of students who display unusual talent or ability, extension
material is given to motivate and challenge their intellectual growth.
The Primary school is committed to ensuring that each student has the best possible opportunity to achieve his
or her potential and that boys and girls have equal access to all aspects of the curriculum. The basic aim of the
curriculum is to build upon the firm foundation provided through a student's exposure to a broad and balanced
education, which utilises the best educational practice in small teaching groups.
BIS Prospectus
Primary students enjoying Pottery Club
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During these two years students are encouraged to learn both practically and academically. They enjoy a variety
of experiences, visiting places of interest in the immediate locality, performing in dance, drama and music and
engaging in extra-curricular activities.
Primary School
Key Stage 1 students in an Art lesson
Global Running Day 2017
Key Stage 2 (Years 3, 4, 5 and 6)
Skills and knowledge acquired during Key Stage 1 are consolidated and developed in Key Stage 2. Students
continue to work individually, in groups and as a class, depending upon the task in hand.
During the latter part of Key Stage 2, subject teaching becomes more defined, especially in the core subjects of
English, Mathematics and Science and more extensive use is made of the science and ICT laboratories. Students
are prepared for the subject-orientated approach evident in Year 7 and are expected to become more
independent in planning and completing their studies.
Sport, dance, drama and music feature prominently in the curriculum with students engaged in team activities
and competitions.
From Year 3 students not requiring ESL have the option of studying either French, German or Serbian as a
second language.
Homework
Homework is important in its own right and should be seen as a normal and regular aspect of school life and an
important and essential part of learning. Its purpose is to provide activities which link work in the classroom to
planned activities at home, thus encouraging parental involvement in student learning.
In Key Stage 1 homework is given on an informal basis, mainly in the form of a small amount of Numeracy and
Literary work. Parents are asked to share books with their children and maintain a two way line of
communication to staff.
In Key Stage 2 the nightly reading and weekly spelling will be supplemented with written tasks, which will
increase throughout the year.
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BIS Prospectus
Key Stage 2 students demostrating Karate
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Primary School
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Students who need extra help to learn English as a Second Language are given support both in the classroom,
and either in small groups or individually where they are taught specific language skills. An experienced teacher
sees students who need help with a change to the new curriculum either individually or in small groups.
Primary students learn English Alphabet and Phonics
Assessment
All students are assessed on entry to BIS in order to provide a baseline from which to monitor progress and
achievement during their stay with us. After an assessment has been carried out, the class teacher comes up
with an individual learning plan for each student based on their level of knowledge which should correspond to
their age. The class teacher uses this to ensure access to the curriculum for all students. Differentiation is
applied at all stages of learning.
The class teacher undertakes continuous
assessment of academic achievement
regularly in classes. Students are
regularly tested and the Cambridge
Primary Programme is used as a
recognised testing method to determine
the level of knowledge, understanding
and skill in the core subjects of English,
Mathematics and Science at the end of
Key Stage 2. The results are analysed to
direct the planning and the content of
work that is to follow in Key Stage 3.
A group of BIS Primary Students with H.R.H. Crown PrinceAlexander II Karadjordjevic and H.R.H. Princess Katherine
at the White Palace
Primary School Day
School commences promptly at 08.30 hrs and finishes at 15.00 hrs. On Friday there is a wholeschool assembly
at 13:45 followed by “Golden Time” from 14:15 – 15:00.
PRIMARY TIME SCHEDULE
08.30 – 10.30 1st block of lessons
10.30 – 11.00 Break
11.00 – 12.00 2nd block of lessons
12.00 – 13.00 Lunch break
13.00 – 15.00 3rd block of lessons
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Primary students in a football match
BIS Prospectus
Mathletics and SuperMathlete
BIS has a subscription to Mathletics, which is enjoyed by students throughout the Primary school. In the final
assembly each half–term certificates are awarded to those students who have achieved Gold, or Silver
certificates.
There is also an award each year for the top student in Mathletics that year, the SuperMathlete.
BIS also takes part in the annual World Maths Day, normally in March.
Primary students with “Word Mania” Trophy
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Primary School
Library
The Primary school has both its own central library and smaller in-class libraries. Students are taught through a
formal programme how to use the library through frequent visits. Books are taken out on a regular basis and BIS
encourages all parents to help their child develop their reading skills.
Computers
Every classroom has an interactive whiteboard and Primary students have both a computer suite, as well as two
sets of laptops. These are used by all years, due to the importance of information technology today. Students in
all years have both discrete ICT lessons as well as use them during other times e.g. to reinforce their Numeracy
and Literacy lessons.
A wide range of software is available as well as internet based subscriptions to some UK educational sites.
School Assembly
Primary Students taking part in an ICT lesson
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Primary Students Learn Through Self-Created Educational Posters
BIS Prospectus
Trips
BIS Primary students for last year’s annual trip visited Ivanjica area. One of the many activities was to take a
boat journey around the meandering turns of the Uvac river. The views were spectacular and it must be one of
the most beautiful parts of Serbia. The boat arrived at an ice cave where students went inside the freezing
cavern. The single file path was difficult to negotiate especially as they were only able to use torch light. At the
end of the first section the students were asked to switch off their lights and pitch darkness ensued. The
students enjoyed the tranquil nature of the cave but did find the minute of silence a challenge.
Other activities included swimming in a Spa Centre, a mountain waterfall adventure, a disco party and a
monastery visit in the Javor area.
Primary Study Tour to Ivanjica
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Admission Conference
We hope that both the parents and the prospective BIS student can attend the Admissions Conference, which
will be scheduled for all prospective students. At this meeting decisions will be made about the students future,
so it is important that this Prospectus has been read and its contents fully understood. The following information
is needed for admission:
ü A completed application form
ü The currently published Registration Fee (non-refundable)
ü The official transcripts from your child's previous school
ü Immunization Certificate
ü Photocopy of passport or birth certificate
During the course of this conference the school rules, policies and procedures will be outlined to both students
and parents and students will be able to decide which electives they require. The curriculum will be explained as
well as its organisation for examination purposes in terms of University of Cambridge and/or University of
Nebraska requirements.
Classes may be started once the above documents, the signed contract, the non-refundable deposit and an
instalment of the annual tuition fee have been received.
Fees
Tuition costs are as provided to individual parents on request and at time of enrolment.
Tuition costs provide the teaching personnel to deliver the courses on offer and each student with the required
textbooks and course materials. These remain the property of BIS and must be returned to the school when a
course is completed, or the student leaves the school. Students who do not return textbooks or who damage
them will be charged for their replacement.
Tuition fees do NOT cover:
ü Course extension fees
ü Travel to and from school
ü Lunch
ü After-school activities
ü Study tour / sports tours and visas
ü Primary school uniforms
Applying for Admission
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BIS Prospectus
Our Campuses
BIS Infant Primary Campus
