American School of Bahrain and Naseem International School are both in Manama, about 2 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes. American School of Bahrain also offers American, and Naseem International School also offers Bahraini. Published annual fees are BHD 2,900 - 8,980 at American School of Bahrain and BHD 2,292 - 4,526 at Naseem International School, which puts American School of Bahrain roughly 74% higher. American School of Bahrain takes pupils from 2 to 18, and Naseem International School from 3 to 18.
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American School of Bahrain
Manama, Bahrain
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Naseem International School
Manama, Bahrain
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Fees / year
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Fees / year BHD 2,900 - 8,980 | Fees / year BHD 2,292 - 4,526 |
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Age range
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Age range 2 - 18 years | Age range 3 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type — | Type — |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum | Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Bahraini Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 449 | Pupils — |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size — |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English, Arabic |
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Opened
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Opened — | Opened — |
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Bus service
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Bus service — | Bus service — |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location ASB is centrally located in North Riffa (Wadi Al Buhair), near the Bahrain National Stadium. The 17-acre campus is easily accessed from the main highways and offers parking for parents and visitors. The campus address is Building 1528, Road 3429, Block 934, Riffa Al Shamali, Kingdom of Bahrain. | Location Naseem International School is located in the Riffa area of Bahrain. The campus address is Building 30, Road 18, West Riffa, Isa Town, P.O. Box 28503, Kingdom of Bahrain. The school sits in central western Bahrain near Isa Town and Riffa and is accessible via major road links. The Bahrain-based location is listed in the school's contact details. |
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Stages
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Stages ASB serves Early Childhood through Grade 12. The school offers Head Start to Grade 12 with an Early Childhood Center that follows Ontario Kindergarten for Pre-K and KG1 and AERO standards for English, Science and Math in KG2; Grades 1–10 follow AERO standards aligned with Common Core. Pathways in Grades 11 and 12 include the IB Diploma Programme. | Stages Naseem International School is an N-12 IB World School. It offers the full International Baccalaureate continuum: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP). The school identifies itself as a dual-language IB World School and is authorized for all four IB programmes. |
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School type
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School type ASB is a co-educational day school with no boarding facilities. | School type The school is co-educational and operates as a day school. It does not publish boarding facilities; the IB information for the school lists boarding facilities as DAY. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix ASB serves a diverse student body with dozens of nationalities represented. Publicly available estimates place the total nationalities represented at about 33 to 48, with Bahraini, American and Canadian among the most represented; the local-to-international student ratio is roughly around 50:50. | Pupil nationality mix The school serves both local Bahraini and international families and describes itself as bilingual and internationally oriented. Exact numbers of nationalities represented and the local-to-international ratio are not publicly disclosed. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support ASB provides learning support spaces and services, including English Language (EL) support and general learning support, delivered in designated learning support rooms and counseling areas on campus. Availability may be limited by program and staffing. | Additional learning support Public information does not specify a dedicated SEN/Special Educational Needs provision in official materials. The school describes itself as a dual-language institution offering IB programmes and operates within Bahrain's context of local Islamic culture. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation The school is an American international school located in Bahrain and is part of the Esol Education network. | Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated. The school operates in Bahrain and is identified as an IB World School in Bahrain. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation Religious affiliation: Not affiliated with a specific religion. The curriculum includes Arabic language instruction and Islamic Studies as part of Bahraini cultural education. | Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation published. The school notes education within the context of local Islamic culture. |
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School day structure
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School day structure The school day runs from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | School day structure School hours run from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. This schedule is reflected in the school's opening hours. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details ASB offers a school bus service; transport details, routes, and providers are coordinated through the Admissions Office. Inquiries about transport options should be directed to admissions@asb.bh or by calling +973 1721 1800. | Bus service details The school does not publish an internal transport service. Public bus routes 15 and 19 serve the area near Naseem International School, with nearby stops such as Driver Training School-1 and Bahrain Training Institute. Families often use local bus routes or private transport. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application and Registration Fees - Application fee: BHD 75 per student. - Registration fee: BHD 300 per student due on acceptance of a place. The application fee (BHD 75) is deducted from the registration fee, so the net registration payment on acceptance is BHD 225. Registration and application fees are not refundable. Tuition fees by year group (2025–2026 academic year) — annual and per-term amounts - Head Start — BHD 2,900 per year (Term 1: BHD 1,450; Term 2: BHD 1,450). - Pre-KG — BHD 3,310 per year (Term 1: BHD 1,655; Term 2: BHD 1,655). - KG 1 — BHD 4,730 per year (Term 1: BHD 2,365; Term 2: BHD 2,365). - KG 2 — BHD 4,820 per year (Term 1: BHD 2,410; Term 2: BHD 2,410). - Grade 1 — BHD 4,900 per year (Term 1: BHD 2,450; Term 2: BHD 2,450). - Grade 2 — BHD 5,330 per year (Term 1: BHD 2,665; Term 2: BHD 2,665). - Grade 3 — BHD 5,330 per year (Term 1: BHD 2,665; Term 2: BHD 2,665). - Grade 4 — BHD 5,660 per year (Term 1: BHD 2,830; Term 2: BHD 2,830). - Grade 5 — BHD 5,660 per year (Term 1: BHD 2,830; Term 2: BHD 2,830). - Grade 6 — BHD 6,820 per year (Term 1: BHD 3,410; Term 2: BHD 3,410). - Grade 7 — BHD 6,820 per year (Term 1: BHD 3,410; Term 2: BHD 3,410). - Grade 8 — BHD 6,820 per year (Term 1: BHD 3,410; Term 2: BHD 3,410). - Grade 9 — BHD 7,910 per year (Term 1: BHD 3,955; Term 2: BHD 3,955). - Grade 10 — BHD 7,910 per year (Term 1: BHD 3,955; Term 2: BHD 3,955). - Grade 11 — BHD 8,980 per year (Term 1: BHD 4,490; Term 2: BHD 4,490). - Grade 12 — BHD 8,980 per year (Term 1: BHD 4,490; Term 2: BHD 4,490). Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is billed in two equal installments: Term 1 (September–January) = 50% of the annual tuition, and Term 2 (February–June) = 50% of the annual tuition. Term 1 payment is due in August; Term 2 payment is due in January. - Monthly fee calculations for proration or leave-of-absence purposes are made by dividing the annual tuition by 10 months; one or more days' attendance during a month is counted as a full month. The school reserves the right to charge late-payment penalties. An installment plan beyond the two-term schedule may be agreed in exceptional cases subject to written request and management approval; parents should apply to the Finance Department (accounts@asb.bh). Reservation deposit and re-enrollment deposit - A reservation deposit of 10% of the total fee amount must be paid within ten (10) days of the acceptance letter to secure a place. The deposit is deducted from the annual tuition balance and must be paid before the student's first day. The deposit is non-refundable except where the family must relocate outside Bahrain before the academic year starts. If joining at the beginning of a term, the full term fee must be paid instead of a deposit. - A re-enrollment deposit is required in Term 2 to reserve a place for the next academic year; the school will advise the percentage, due dates and refund conditions. Refund information and leaving mid-year - Refund requests must be submitted in writing using the school's Refund Request Form; refunds will be processed after internal clearance and the return of all school-issued books and equipment. The school aims to process refunds within one month of receiving the completed form and supporting documents. Parents are responsible for any bank transfer charges related to refunds. When fees are paid directly by an employer, any refund or difference will be returned only to the employer's account. - If a student leaves during the academic year, tuition charged is calculated as follows (‘fee per month' = annual tuition / 10): - Attendance two weeks or less during the term = charge of one month's fee. - Attendance between two weeks and one month = charge of two months' fee. - Attendance between one and two months = charge of three months' fee. - Attendance two to three months = charge of four months' fee. - Attendance more than three months = full term fee charged. Other costs and exclusions - The published tuition fees do not include transportation, field trips, cafeteria, IB exam fees or any board exam fees, graduation fees, uniform fees, stationery, notebooks or workbooks. These are additional costs to be covered by parents. - Sibling discounts: 10% for the third child and 15% for the fourth and subsequent children (applies to families with more than two children enrolled). Boarding - Boarding is not listed as part of the school's provision; there are no boarding fees shown. Payment methods and bank details - Accepted payment methods: the school's E-Cashier portal (pay.asb.bh), the online payment link on invoices, electronic bank transfer (Fawri), direct deposit, Benefit Pay (Fawri+), cheque payable to American School of Bahrain W.L.L., cash or credit card at the school accounts office (cash is discouraged). Parents are requested to email deposit or transfer advices to accounts@asb.bh and to quote the student number to ensure correct allocation. - Bank account details for direct transfers: - Account title: American School of Bahrain W.L.L. - Beneficiary bank: Khaleeji Bank - Account number: 3900501463001 - IBAN: BH45KHCB03900501463001 - Swift code: KHCBBHBM - Country: Kingdom of Bahrain. Late payment and non-payment - The school may charge late-payment penalties, restrict access to curriculum support, withhold reports, examination results and leaving certificates, and may remove students from the enrolment register for persistent non-payment. Misplacement of an invoice is not an acceptable reason for late payment; parents should contact the accounts office if an invoice is not received. Installment option - Where parents cannot pay the two-term schedule, an installment option may be considered for the current academic year only, subject to a written request and management approval; parents must reapply in subsequent academic years if needed. (Fees and policies are presented for the 2025–2026 academic year.) | Fee details Below is a clear, factual breakdown of Naseem International School fees for the current academic year, presented for use by parents and external databases. Application and one-time enrolment fees - Application form (new students): BHD 30.00. - Registration (one-time, new students): BHD 300.00. - Services development fee (one-time, new students): BHD 400.00. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per-term amounts) - Nursery (Kindergarten / Nursery): Annual tuition BHD 2,292. Term breakdown: BHD 1,146 + BHD 1,146. - KG1: Annual tuition BHD 3,056. Term breakdown: BHD 1,528 + BHD 1,528. - KG2: Annual tuition BHD 3,268. Term breakdown: BHD 1,634 + BHD 1,634. - Grades 1–5: Annual tuition BHD 3,518. Term breakdown: BHD 1,759 + BHD 1,759. - Grade 6: Annual tuition BHD 3,928. Term breakdown: BHD 1,964 + BHD 1,964. - Grades 7–8: Annual tuition BHD 3,943. Term breakdown: approximately BHD 1,972 + BHD 1,971. - Grades 9–10: Annual tuition BHD 4,450. Term breakdown: BHD 2,225 + BHD 2,225. - Grades 11–12: Annual tuition BHD 4,526. Term breakdown: BHD 2,263 + BHD 2,263. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school issues tuition billing in scheduled installments across the academic year; parents are required to settle the invoiced amounts by the published deadlines prior to enrolment. - The school's published tuition policy uses a multi-part installment schedule: a first payment (reservation/deposit) due in early May, the remainder of the first installment due in early August, and the final installment due in early December. Late payment penalties are applied to overdue amounts. Specific due-date windows and a 1% per‑week late-payment penalty are part of the school's published tuition policy. - The bus fee (where used) is collected with the May installment / first payment cycle. Boarding fees - The school operates as a day school; there is no published full- or weekly-boarding programme and no boarding fees are listed. Other costs and annual extras - Books and resources are not included in the tuition figures; book/resource fees are charged separately. - IB exam and programme fees are not included in tuition and are charged separately when applicable. - Grade 12 graduation participation carries a separate graduation fee (not included in tuition). - Chromebook devices for Grades 1–12 are purchased directly through the school and are not included in the tuition totals. - School bus/transport is an additional charge announced in the annual fees notice (bus fees are typically announced in the May billing cycle and must be paid with that installment). - Uniform, stationery, extracurricular trip costs and certain activity fees are additional to the published tuition and are not included in the annual tuition figures above; those costs are invoiced or communicated separately. (No fixed uniform price schedule is published with the general fee schedule.) Refund information - The publicly available fee materials do not publish a detailed refund schedule for tuition, registration or other one-time fees. The school's published fees page states that fees are payable before enrolment but does not provide a public, itemised refund/credit policy in the fee schedule. Where a formal refund policy or the refundability of one‑time fees is required, the school's accounts or admissions office should be consulted directly. Fee payment options - The school's published fee schedule and public fee summary do not list specific accepted payment methods (for example: bank transfer, credit card or cheque) in the fee image/text that accompanies the published schedule. The school's accounts office handles fee collection and payment details for families at registration. Summary of source coverage and gaps found - Published one-time fees (application, registration, services development), annual tuition amounts by grade and notable exclusions (books, IB fees, Chromebooks, bus fee timing) are listed in the school's public fee materials and corroborated by independent school-fee directories. - The school public fee materials include billing timing and installment practice but do not publish a detailed, itemised refund policy or a list of accepted payment methods in the public fee image/text. These specific items were not available on the publicly posted fee schedule. If you need these figures displayed or imported in a specific field layout for your external database, use the figures above exactly as shown (currency: BHD). |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement — | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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Food options The cafeteria provides balanced meals designed to promote nutrition and health. The offerings align with USDA Dietary Guidelines (2015-2020) and include options that combine fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy to support students' daily needs. | Food options — |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership ASB is a joint venture between Esol Education and Elm Education Fund (Elm), a Bahrain-based education platform established by Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat), the sovereign wealth fund of the Kingdom of Bahrain. Elm establishes and co-invests in world-class educational institutions in partnership with leading global operators. | Governance and ownership The school is led by the Founding President/CEO, Mrs Sameera Al Kooheji. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details Instruction is delivered in English and Arabic. From Early Childhood through Grade 10, ASB follows the AERO standards aligned with the Common Core, with Early Childhood using the Ontario Kindergarten Program for PreK and K1. The Grades 1–10 science program follows the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and emphasizes inquiry-based, hands-on learning. In Grades 11–12, ASB offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) after IB authorisation in 2022; Grade 10 students have access to pre-IB courses to prepare for the DP. The DP comprises six subject groups (Group 1–Group 6) plus the DP core (Theory of Knowledge, Creativity, Activity, Service, Extended Essay), with three HL and three SL (or four HL) options across the groups. | Curriculum details Naseem International School is an IB World School offering the full IB continuum: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP). The school operates as a bilingual program with daily instruction in English and Arabic, covering core subjects—language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and religion—alongside specialists in music, drama, art, physical education, design and technology. PYP is licensed for grades 1–5 (2008), MYP for grades 6–10 (2012), DP from 1996, and CP from 2019, making Naseem the first IB World Continuum School in Bahrain to offer all four IB programmes. In the CP pathway, students complete two IB certificates, a BTEC Subsidiary Diploma, and CP Core, with graduates receiving the IB CP Certificate, a BTEC Subsidiary Diploma, and the Naseem High School Diploma. Naseem International School holds accreditation from the IB, the Middle States Association (MSA), and the Council of International Schools (CIS), and was rated Outstanding by the Bahrain Quality Assurance Authority (BQA) in 2022, with a NEASC accreditation visit completed in 2023. Technology and college guidance are integrated, including Google for Education Reference School status, a paperless learning approach from Grade 3, and 1:1 college counselling. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression — | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning ASB provides social-emotional support through dedicated School Counselors for Early Childhood/Elementary and for Middle/High, as well as a University Counselor. The school emphasizes pastoral care and wellbeing as central to student life, with staff attuned to students' wellbeing. Social and emotional development is a core focus within ASB's holistic approach to education. Wellbeing is embedded in student life through the Extra-Curricular Activities program, which includes a Wellbeing category (e.g., Yoga Club). The school's messaging and culture highlight happiness and wellbeing as foundational to learning and belonging. | Social & emotional learning Naseem International School provides Guidance Counseling to support students' social and academic development. The major objectives are to help students acquire necessary study and social skills and to build self-confidence to maximize achievement. The program is designed to prepare students for personal, educational, and vocational decisions and to support them in facing academic, social, and emotional difficulties. The school also offers university counseling with dedicated counselors to assist senior students with applications and post‑secondary planning. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) ASB provides Learning Support and English as an Additional Language (EAL) services, with Kathryn Adams (Curriculum Coordinator and English Teacher) and a team of Learning Support staff (e.g., Natasha McGlade, Jennifer Morrissey, Eimear Peoples, Hiruni De Silva). Leadership for Learning Services includes Caryn Pelletier as Head of Learning Services (Early Childhood and Elementary) and Natasha McGlade as Head of Learning Support (Middle and High School). Hiruni De Silva is presented as Learning Support and EAL teacher. Natasha McGlade holds a Post-Graduate Certification as an Inclusion Specialist, indicating inclusion-focused expertise within the Learning Services team. The school runs Muzdawaj, a dual-language program expanding to KG1 and KG2, to support bilingual language development (Arabic-English). | Special educational needs (SEN) The materials publicly available for Naseem International School indicate language-focused support rather than a defined SEN department. Arabic as a Second Language (ASL) is available for students from non-Arabic backgrounds, and English as a Second Language (ESL) receives differentiated instruction in English classes. No dedicated SEN unit or specialist SEN provisions are listed in the publicly available material. The school is described as a dual-language IB World School rather than a specialist SEN institution. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language ASB provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support through dedicated staff, including Hiruni De Silva as Learning Support and EAL teacher. Kathryn Adams serves as Curriculum Coordinator and English Teacher, contributing to English language learning and literacy development. The Learning Services leadership includes a Head of Learning Services and a Head of Learning Support to coordinate EAL and related language needs. Hiruni De Silva explicitly holds an EAL teaching role at ASB. Muzdawaj is a dual-language program (Arabic-English) that enhances language development for bilingual learners. | English as an additional language English as a Second Language (ESL) support is provided, with differentiated instruction for ESL students. Naseem International School also operates as a dual-language institution with daily instruction in English and Arabic, supporting language development for learners of both languages. The IB listing confirms English as the language of instruction. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is a central facet of ASB's approach, with pastoral care and a focus on students' happiness and confidence. School Counselors support mental wellbeing across campuses; Early Childhood/Elementary and Middle/High counselors exist, plus a University Counselor. Wellbeing is integrated into ASB's activities program, including a dedicated Wellbeing category in Extra-Curricular Activities (e.g., Yoga Club). Wellness is a core pillar of the campus design, with facilities and programs to promote physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. The school communicates a culture of happiness and wellbeing as a foundational aspect of its learning environment. | Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through Guidance Counseling, which helps students manage social and emotional difficulties and develop self-confidence. Counseling services also aim to prepare students for academic and personal challenges. The health service includes an on-site school nurse for minor illnesses and injuries, with emergency protocols coordinating with parents and medical professionals when needed. The university counseling service provides additional guidance for post-secondary planning and wellbeing. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding ASB adopted a Child Safeguarding Policy in August 2022, defining child abuse and neglect and outlining preventative measures and the school's response to suspected cases. The policy outlines four components: a Preventative Program, a Child Safeguarding Management Team, a Core Response Team, and a Multi-Disciplinary Team. All staff are required to report suspected incidents of abuse or neglect, with processes for investigation and contact with local authorities as needed. The policy includes age-appropriate safeguarding curricula for students from K to Grade 12, plus annual staff training and parent information sessions. The policy aligns with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and Bahrain's laws (e.g., Decree No. 4 of 2021; Child Law No. 37 of 2012), with ongoing commitments to training and safeguarding practice. | Safeguarding The publicly accessible materials do not disclose safeguarding policies for Naseem International School. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview ASB's campus is located in North Riffa on a 17-acre site near the Bahrain National Stadium. It features technology-enabled classrooms, STEAM labs and maker spaces. The library is multi-level and equipped with digital resources, serving as a research space and learning hub. Art studios, music rooms and performance spaces support visual and performing arts. Naturally lit classrooms and open spaces promote collaboration, and connectivity supports modern teaching. The athletics complex includes a shaded swimming pool, a 1500 square meter gymnasium, basketball courts, a regulation-sized soccer field and a running track. | Facilities overview Naseem International School occupies a purpose-built campus designed for young learners. It is Bahrain's first Google for Education Reference School, and learning is paperless from Grade 3 onward as part of the Go Green initiative. The campus features grade-level classrooms, an auditorium, a world-class theater, and an indoor gym with sports courts; a full-service cafeteria is available on campus. It also provides designated playgrounds, computer labs, and dedicated innovative/creative spaces, alongside comprehensive libraries. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Elementary has three shaded playgrounds, separated by age group. Middle School and High School have dedicated playgrounds. The campus includes a 1500 square meter gymnasium for indoor athletic activities, a shaded swimming pool, a regulation-sized soccer field, and a running track. | Sports facilities The school has an indoor gymnasium and dedicated sports courts for basketball and volleyball. There are two designated elementary-school playgrounds and additional outdoor spaces, including a running track. Outdoor spaces are integrated with the learning environment to support daily physical education and team sports. The facilities are designed to accommodate a range of athletic activities and events. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities ASB's Learning Facilities include spacious classrooms, science and technology labs, and specialized spaces for graphic arts, performing arts, and music. Open workspaces and breakout rooms support collaborative teaching. The campus has two libraries serving Elementary, Middle, and High School. Outdoor learning spaces, learning support rooms, and counseling areas are available. | Academic facilities Academic facilities include grade-level classrooms, science laboratories, IT labs/computer labs, and a design technology workshop. The campus hosts comprehensive libraries and an auditorium for presentations, along with a cultural theater for performances. There is a dedicated art gallery and adjoining art studios as part of the creative spaces. Learning is paperless from Grade 3 onward as part of the Go Green initiative, supported by Google for Education technology integration. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities The ECA program provides opportunities spanning athletics, arts, leadership, and special interests, available during lunchtime and after school. ECAs are led by ASB faculty and enriched by partnerships with external providers. The ECA year is divided into three blocks: Block 1 (September–November), Block 2 (November–February), and Block 3 (February–May). Sign-up is through School Buddy. Music ECAs, sports teams and other activities are offered, with the school having over 60 sports teams in the school year. | Extra curricular facilities Creative and performing arts form a core part of the program, with dedicated music rooms and art studios and a performance space. A range of clubs and activities is offered, including chess, drama, arts and crafts, and singing. Model UN and other leadership-oriented activities are part of the extracurricular program. Naseem Park and innovation labs support experiential learning outside the classroom. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History ASB opened in September 2020. It is a joint venture between ESOL Education and Elm Education Fund (Elm), a Bahrain-based platform established by Mumtalakat. ASB benefits from ESOL Education's 45-plus years of experience in creating and operating international schools. Under ESOL Education's stewardship, the ASB leadership team operates and manages the school. ASB is part of ESOL Education's global family of international schools, sharing accreditation principles and a common mission across locations. | History Naseem International School was established in the Kingdom of Bahrain on January 4, 1982 as a dual-language school serving Nursery through Grade 12. It became Bahrain's first IB World School to offer the full IB continuum, with the Primary Years Programme licensed in 2008, the Middle Years Programme licensed in 2012, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme licensed in 1996, and the IB Career-related Programme licensed in 2019. In 2019, construction and interior fittings for the NIS Cultural Theater were completed, and the theater was inaugurated to host elementary performances and cultural activities. The school was designated a Google for Education Reference School in Bahrain and has pursued technology initiatives such as a 1-to-1 Chromebook policy. By 2023, Naseem International School had gained reaccreditation by the Council of International Schools and earned an Outstanding rating from the Bahrain Quality Assurance Authority in 2022, with ongoing expansions of facilities and programs. |
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Community
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Community ASB describes its community as a village where teachers, parents, students and the wider community form strong bonds to support each student's growth. The school emphasizes inclusion and Belonging, honoring its rich collective cultural heritage and promoting global citizenship. Student life features events such as International Day, literacy and arts initiatives, environmental awareness drives and social responsibility programs. Parents are engaged as partners through the Our Parents, Our Partners framework and regular updates via The ASB Insider newsletter. | Community The Naseem International School community is shaped by bilingual instruction in English and Arabic, with regular family communications via weekly bulletins and monthly newsletters. The school hosts Bahrain National Day celebrations and an Annual Family Day, alongside cultural celebrations and student activities that engage families and the wider community. The NIS Cultural Theater provides a venue for student performances and cultural events, reflecting the school's emphasis on culture and the arts. The school also offers field trips and extracurricular programs that involve students, families, and staff in shared learning experiences. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association ASB uses a parent engagement model described as Our Parents, Our Partners rather than a traditional PTA. The primary parent information hub is ASB Parent Essentials, which provides calendars, E-Cashier, school uniforms and transportation details. Regular updates are delivered to families through The ASB Insider newsletter. ASB hosts and participates in family-inclusive events such as International Day, the Arabic and Islamic Conference, and ESOL Education Sportsfest. The ESOL Sportsfest and graduation-related events illustrate ongoing parent involvement in school life. ASB's pillars include community leadership and cultural respect, reflecting the aims of its parent partnership. | Parent teacher association The Naseem International School Parent Teacher Association (PTA) serves as a strong advocate for student education and well-being, with its leadership including Mrs. Sameera A. J. Al Kooheji, Mrs Amina Al Murbati, Sh. Nayla Al Khalifa, Mrs Jehan Hasan, Mrs Nasreen AlAsoomi, Mrs Amina Al Refai, Mrs Majeda Shubbar, Mrs Asma Al Kooheji, Dr Najma Taqi, Mrs Saba Mohamed Alsaffar, and Mrs Aida Attiga. The PTA is newly elected every two years and includes parents, teachers and administrators. Its objectives include facilitating parent involvement and creating and maintaining an NIS community, promoting consultation, cooperation and positive interaction among all who form the NIS community. It aims to foster and maintain a productive parent–school partnership to develop sound character and a healthy lifestyle, to support and monitor the teaching and learning intentions, and to promote the development of school activities. It also coordinates and supports extra-curricular activities such as the Family Day, cultural celebrations, presentations, and inviting expert speakers to address students. The PTA actively assists with fundraising by obtaining sponsorships to support school facilities and ongoing development, and it seeks to widen students' cultural awareness and engagement through school-wide initiatives. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual ASB provides a standards-based American curriculum from Head Start to Grade 12. The Grades 1–10 program follows the AERO standards aligned with the Common Core; the Early Childhood Center uses the Ontario Kindergarten Program in Pre-KG and K1 and AERO Common Core Plus for English, Science and Math in KG2. In Grades 11–12, the IB Diploma Programme is offered with three graduation routes: ASB High School Diploma; ASB High School Diploma + IB Diploma Courses; and ASB High School Diploma + Full IB Diploma. The language of instruction is English and Arabic. | Academic & intellectual The school is a Kindergarten to Pre-University IB World Continuum School. The language of instruction is English and Arabic as part of a dual-language program. It is accredited by the Ministry of Education in Bahrain and is the first K-12 recipient of NEASC accreditation. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative ASB emphasizes visual and performing arts as part of a holistic education. The Visual Arts program follows the US NCCAS standards, and the school operates three art studios and two maker space labs with facilities for exhibitions. The arts program includes regular art shows and exhibitions, and the Performing Arts offerings include music and choral programs with performances throughout the year. | Arts & creative Specialists in music, drama, art, physical education, gymnastics, design, and technology support students' creative and physical development. The campus includes an auditorium and a world-class theater for performances. Design and technology are integrated through dedicated spaces and programs. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language French and Spanish are taught in High School using the AERO World Language standards with IB success criteria. After-school language programs include Arabic, French, Russian, Italian and German. | Cultural & language Dual-language program with daily instruction in English and Arabic. Core subjects such as language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and religion are taught in both languages. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies ASB runs an active after-school program with Extra Curricular Activities, Sports and Athletics, Students' Leadership Activities, Performing Arts and Outreach and Service Learning, plus trips and other social experiences. | Social & hobbies INJAZ entrepreneurship competitions provide opportunities for student teamwork and leadership. In 2021-2022 Naseem International School teams won top awards, including best student company in Bahrain and in the Arab world, along with a MasterCard award for technological excellence. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Outreach and Service Learning is part of ASB's after-school activities, enabling student involvement in community-based projects and service opportunities. | Community & service INJAZ programs reflect community engagement and enterprise; the awards demonstrate impact on the school and its students. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Students participate in leadership activities through after-school programs and Students' Leadership Activities, providing opportunities to develop leadership skills. | Leadership & professional Students develop leadership and professional skills through INJAZ entrepreneurship programs and student-led projects. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus features high quality sports facilities and a design emphasizing natural light and modern learning spaces, supporting physical activity and well-being. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Facilities include an auditorium, a world-class theater, an indoor gym, sports courts, designated playgrounds, and comprehensive libraries. The campus is purpose-built for learners with grade-level classrooms and learning spaces. Naseem International School is a Google for Education Reference School in Bahrain, and implements a Go Green initiative with paperless learning from Grade 3 onwards. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision English is the language of instruction for the standard curriculum. Arabic is taught as a core language and as Arabic as a Foreign Language; Arabic language instruction also includes Islamic education for Muslim students, Social Studies and Citizenship Education as part of the core curriculum. French and Spanish are taught in High School as World Languages. The Early Childhood Center follows the Ontario Kindergarten Program for Pre-KG and K1, and the AERO Common Core Plus Curricular Standards for English, Science and Math in KG2. The school provides Arabic language support for both native and non-native speakers. Grades 11–12 follow the IB Diploma Programme. | Language provision Daily instruction in English and Arabic covers core subjects. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching ASB offers a dual-language Muzdawaj program in the Early Childhood Center (Pre-KG to KG2) that immerses students in Arabic and English through a co-teaching model. The program is expanding to include KG1 and KG2 in the 2025-26 academic year. | Bilingual teaching The school provides bilingual teaching in English and Arabic. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs Muzdawaj is an immersion program that combines Arabic and English learning in a bilingual/co-teaching environment. | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards ASB Graduation 2025: first graduation ceremony with 37 graduates | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations MSA and ACS WASC accreditation; Bahrain BQA Outstanding School recognition | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. ASB offers a standards-based American curriculum from Head Start to Grade 12. The school is part of the ESOL Education family of international schools. ASB is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC). Bahrain Quality Assurance (BQA) accreditation is also shown. 2. ASB is open to students of all nationalities who can benefit from the American and international curriculum offered by the school. The program covers Head Start to Grade 12 and provides a standards-based US curriculum. 3. The campus is located in North Riffa, near the Bahrain National Stadium. The ASB campus sits on a 17-acre plot and is designed with technology-enabled classrooms, STEAM labs, a multi-level library, art studios, music rooms and extensive athletic facilities. 4. Pathways in Grades 11 and 12 include the IB Diploma Programme. There are three routes to graduation: ASB High School Diploma; ASB High School Diploma + IB Diploma Courses; and ASB High School Diploma + Full IB Diploma. 5. ASB is enrolling for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 academic years. Weekly campus tours are offered and led by the leadership team. The Admissions Manager is Nada Faraz. 6. Fees and payment: Application fee is 75 BHD and the registration fee is 300 BHD upon accepting an offer. Tuition is listed by grade for 2025-2026 with two-term payment; a 10% reservation/deposit is required to secure a space. Sibling discounts apply (10% for the third child, 15% for the fourth and subsequent children). 7. ASB offers a Dual Language Program, Muzdawaj, in its Early Childhood Center. The program immerses students in both Arabic and English with a co-teaching model and plans to extend to KG1 and KG2, then Grades 1 and 2, with class sizes capped at 18. Fees for the 2024-25 year were the same as the international program. | Admissions 1. Requests for enrollment are taken online, by phone, or in person. The Admissions Office provides an information packet and explains the IB programmes and admissions requirements. Families are encouraged to contact the Admissions Office to arrange an information session. 2. A meeting is scheduled with the Principal or Admissions Officer to explain the programme and answer questions about the IB Continuum (PYP, MYP, DP, CP), language policy, and expectations. 3. Prospective families and students are taken on a school tour. 4. At the end of the tour, the Admissions Officer reviews the registration process and the parent can submit the application and registration forms. 5. The Admissions Office coordinates the next steps for enrollment. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships — | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
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