Bordeaux International School vs International School 33

	B Bordeaux International School Bordeaux, France	I International School 33 Bordeaux, France
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €8,290 - 12,170	Fees / year €6,210 - 16,094
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum Cambridge IGCSE, French Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), French Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English, French	Instruction language French, English
Opened	Opened 1987	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Located in the heart of Bordeaux, France. 252 Rue Judaïque, 33000 Bordeaux, France.	Location 47 avenue de la Poterie, 33170 Gradignan, France
Stages	Stages Early Learning (3-6 years); Primary (6-10 years); Middle School (10-14 years); Upper School: International GCSE (14-16 years); Upper School: International A Level (16-18 years)	Stages Kindergarten (ages 2-6), Elementary (ages 6-12), Middle School (ages 11-16)
School type	School type Bilingual international school operated as a SCOP (Educational Cooperative) since 1999	School type Private international school
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix More than 40 nationalities represented	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support Small classes (15-20 pupils per class) with personalised follow-up. Tutoring, methodology and remediation sessions are integrated into the timetable to reinforce independence and confidence.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation France	Country affiliation France
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure Full-day program with bilingual instruction. Kindergarten day runs 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. with two French days and two English days; daycare is available from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Admissions & one‑off fees - Application / registration fee (one‑off, non‑refundable except if the school cannot guarantee a place): 1st child €680; 2nd child €580; 3rd child €480; 4th child free. - Capital fund (one‑off, per family, non‑refundable): €1,200. - Security deposit (one‑off, per child; refunded after audited accounts): - Early Learning: €2,600 - Primary: €2,700 - Lower Middle School: €3,500 - Upper Middle School: €4,000 - International IGCSE: €4,600 - International A Level: €5,200 The security deposit is refunded within 60 days of the student's departure after the accounts have been audited. Tuition fees — annual and per‑term by year group (tuition only) All figures are tuition fees (annual). Term amounts are shown on a 10‑month basis (school uses a 10‑month payment schedule: 1st term = 4 months; 2nd term = 3 months; 3rd term = 3 months): - Foundation / Reception / Year 1 (Early Learning) - Annual tuition: €7,890 - Term 1 (4 months): €3,156 - Term 2 (3 months): €2,367 - Term 3 (3 months): €2,367 - Years 2–5 (Primary) - Annual tuition: €8,240 - Term 1: €3,296 - Term 2: €2,472 - Term 3: €2,472 - Years 6–7 (Lower Middle) - Annual tuition: €10,050 - Term 1: €4,020 - Term 2: €3,015 - Term 3: €3,015 - Years 8–9 (Upper Middle) - Annual tuition: €12,170 - Term 1: €4,868 - Term 2: €3,651 - Term 3: €3,651 - Years 10–11 (International IGCSE) - Annual tuition: €14,290 - Term 1: €5,716 - Term 2: €4,287 - Term 3: €4,287 - Years 12–13 (International A Level) - Annual tuition: €16,290 - Term 1: €6,516 - Term 2: €4,887 - Term 3: €4,887 Reductions applicable to tuition fees only: - 4% discount for payment of the full year in advance by 1 June (date specified in the school's payment schedule). - 2% discount applicable for termly payments made on the set dates. - 3% discount for families with three or more children enrolled. Equipment, lunches and other recurring charges - Equipment fee (annual, per student): €680 (covers notebooks, textbooks, photocopies, materials for arts/music/theatre, specialised classroom resources and access to computers/software; excludes personal stationery, external exam fees, personal insurance and some school trips). - Lunch / canteen (annual) or packed‑lunch contribution (supervision/maintenance): - Early Learning: €1,254 (canteen) / €280 (packed‑lunch contribution) - Primary: €1,418 / €280 - Lower Middle: €1,418 / €280 - Upper Middle: €1,682 / €350 - IGCSE: €1,682 / €350 - A Level: €1,682 / €350 Meals are provided at school; special dietary/allergy arrangements require an official Individual Health Plan (PAI). - Miscellaneous academic costs: A‑Level online supplementary subjects, language support, special needs support and preparation for the Diplôme National du Brevet are charged separately (fees available on request). External examination fees, some school trips, extra tuition and personal items are not covered by the equipment fee. Boarding (host‑family) fees - Weekly host‑family stay (Monday–Friday, excluding school holiday periods): €7,495 per year. - Full‑time host‑family stay (including weekends, excluding school holiday periods): €11,445 per year. - Host‑family re‑arrangement fee (any changes during the school year): €200. Fees for host‑family stays include an annual local transport card (TBM); in the event of early departure a pro‑rata deduction is applied. Billing schedule and payment terms - Termly payment dates (reductions apply when payments are made on these dates): 1 June for Term 1 (4 months), 1 September for Term 2 (3 months), and 1 January for Term 3 (3 months). Monthly payments by standing order are available over 10 months (payments begin 1 June and end 1 March). - Late payments incur a 10% annual late fee plus a fixed administrative charge of €40. Bank charges (cheques, transfers, exchange costs, etc.) are payable by the payer. Refunds, early departure and related conditions - Registration fees are non‑refundable except where the school is unable to guarantee a place. The capital fund is non‑refundable. The security deposit is refunded within 60 days of departure after accounts have been audited. - Early departure notice requirements (registered letter with acknowledgement or hand delivery against signature): notice must be received by the school by the announced deadlines to take effect at the end of a term; if notice is not provided by those dates, tuition fees for the current term and the following term remain payable. In cases of definitive exclusion by the Disciplinary Committee, tuition fees will not be refunded. Fee payment options - Options explicitly described in the school's payment terms are: termly payments on set dates and monthly payment by standing order over 10 months. The school notes bank charges for methods such as cheques and bank transfers are to be borne by the payer (these payment types are referenced in the payment terms). Late payment penalties apply as above.	Fee details Application / initial registration fees - First registration fee (per child): EUR 600 (1st child), EUR 549 (2nd child), EUR 466 (3rd child). - Family development fund (one-off, per family): EUR 983. - These initial costs are indicated as non‑refundable; an initial withdrawal period of 7 days applies to the registration. Tuition fees by school level (2025–2026) — annual totals and instalments Note: fees are shown by household income category. The school applies 6 categories based on taxable reference income to determine the fee level. Tuition is invoiced as an annual total and is paid by monthly direct debit over 10 instalments (see Payment Terms). Annual totals below include the administrative charge shown on the school fee grid. - Category 1 (Taxable income up to EUR 54,000): - Kindergarten (2–6 years): Admin EUR 155; School EUR 6,210; Annual total EUR 6,365 (≈ EUR 637/month). - Elementary (6–12 years): Admin EUR 207; School EUR 6,831; Annual total EUR 7,038 (≈ EUR 704/month). - Middle school (12–15 years): Admin EUR 259; School EUR 7,452; Annual total EUR 7,711 (≈ EUR 771/month). - High School (15–18 years): Admin EUR 414; School EUR 8,073; Annual total EUR 8,487 (≈ EUR 849/month). - Category 2 (EUR 54,001–EUR 73,516): - Kindergarten: Admin EUR 176; School EUR 6,728; Annual total EUR 6,904 (≈ EUR 690/month). - Elementary: Admin EUR 207; School EUR 7,400; Annual total EUR 7,607 (≈ EUR 761/month). - Middle school: Admin EUR 279; School EUR 8,073; Annual total EUR 8,352 (≈ EUR 835/month). - High School: Admin EUR 435; School EUR 8,746; Annual total EUR 9,181 (≈ EUR 918/month). - Category 3 (EUR 73,517–EUR 120,000): - Kindergarten: Admin EUR 207; School EUR 7,245; Annual total EUR 7,452 (≈ EUR 745/month). - Elementary: Admin EUR 259; School EUR 7,970; Annual total EUR 8,229 (≈ EUR 823/month). - Middle school: Admin EUR 311; School EUR 8,694; Annual total EUR 9,005 (≈ EUR 901/month). - High School: Admin EUR 466; School EUR 9,522; Annual total EUR 9,988 (≈ EUR 999/month). - Category 4 (EUR 120,001–EUR 158,122): - Kindergarten: Admin EUR 228; School EUR 7,814; Annual total EUR 8,042 (≈ EUR 804/month). - Elementary: Admin EUR 279; School EUR 8,591; Annual total EUR 8,870 (≈ EUR 887/month). - Middle school: Admin EUR 331; School EUR 9,419; Annual total EUR 9,750 (≈ EUR 975/month). - High School: Admin EUR 486; School EUR 10,350; Annual total EUR 10,836 (≈ EUR 1,084/month). - Category 5 (EUR 158,123–EUR 200,000): - Kindergarten: Admin EUR 259; School EUR 8,435; Annual total EUR 8,694 (≈ EUR 869/month). - Elementary: Admin EUR 311; School EUR 9,263; Annual total EUR 9,574 (≈ EUR 957/month). - Middle school: Admin EUR 362; School EUR 10,868; Annual total EUR 11,230 (≈ EUR 1,123/month). - High School: Admin EUR 518; School EUR 12,420; Annual total EUR 12,938 (≈ EUR 1,294/month). - Category 6 (Taxable income over EUR 200,000): - Kindergarten: Admin EUR 311; School EUR 9,108; Annual total EUR 9,419 (≈ EUR 942/month). - Elementary: Admin EUR 362; School EUR 10,040; Annual total EUR 10,402 (≈ EUR 1,040/month). - Middle school: Admin EUR 414; School EUR 12,524; Annual total EUR 12,938 (≈ EUR 1,294/month). - High School: Admin EUR 569; School EUR 15,525; Annual total EUR 16,094 (≈ EUR 1,609/month). Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition and administrative charges are invoiced as an annual total and must be paid by automatic direct debit in 10 monthly instalments. No single‑payment option is required. - All invoices must be paid by the due date. A payment incident will incur a surcharge of 10%. A delay in payment of more than 30 days may result in the pupil being excluded. - Fee category is determined by the household taxable reference income; categories 1–5 require a copy of the tax assessment (TI 2024) to qualify. Without proof by the second week of September, Category 6 will be applied automatically. Boarding - International School 33 operates as a day school (no boarding facilities). There are no boarding fees. Other costs and optional fees - Uniform: not included in tuition; families incur the cost of school uniform. - Meals / Canteen: not included; options are family‑prepared lunchboxes or delivered catered meals (charged separately). - Transport: optional and charged separately. - Language option fees (2025–2026): 1 hour/week EUR 500 per year; 2 hours/week EUR 850 per year. - French Language B (compulsory for students with no knowledge of French): EUR 2,200 per year. - After‑school care (daycare) rates (examples): morning care and evening care fees vary by level and time slot (examples shown on the school FAQ: mornings from EUR 2 / EUR 1.50; evenings until 5pm EUR 5 / EUR 5.50; further hourly brackets listed). - Extra‑curricular activities, external exam fees (HSK, Cambridge, Cervantes, IB), school supplies, study trips, and specific federation memberships are charged separately. Discounts and company support - Sibling discounts on tuition: second child −10%; third child and subsequent −15% (applied to tuition fees). Special company charge‑back rates are available for employer‑sponsored fees. Refunds and contract termination - Initial registration fees and the family development fund are indicated as non‑refundable. A 7‑day withdrawal period applies to the initial registration. - If a pupil leaves during the school year, a written notice of two months (sent to the secretariat with acknowledgement of receipt) is required. Fee payment method(s) - The school requires payment by automatic direct debit (prélèvement automatique) over 10 monthly instalments. Details for company support and special invoicing options are handled by the admissions office. No public listing for credit‑card or alternative payment methods is provided on the rates/FAQ pages. Notes on optional items and penalties - Optional items (uniform, meals, transport, language options, extracurriculars, exam fees, trips) are invoiced separately from core tuition. Late or failed payments incur a 10% surcharge; >30 days overdue may lead to exclusion.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Homestay with carefully selected French families living close to BIS. A school coordinator is available 24/7 and oversees the vetting process (interviews, home inspections and regular reviews) with parents consulted and families introduced prior to the move to ensure wellbeing.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement No uniform is required. Many students and staff choose to buy BIS merchandise through the PTA.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options There is an on-site canteen. Early Learning and Primary students receive hot meals; Middle School and Upper School students may order a hot meal or bring a packed lunch.	Food options Lunch is provided in the kindergarten program. Daycare runs from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm and includes meals. A canteen option is available and billed separately.
House system	House system There are four Houses named after famous people from Bordeaux. Students and staff are allocated to Houses, participate in House Days and compete for House Points; a House Captain is elected from the Upper School.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership BIS is run by an educational cooperative (SCOP) since 1999, with a democratic 'one person, one vote' governance model and associates contributing to strategic decisions.	Governance and ownership IS33 is a partner of Ermitage International School Bordeaux. Ermitage Education is a network of international schools with offices in France and Belgium.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Cambridge International Education is the framework BIS uses. BIS is an official Cambridge Education centre and has been accredited since 1991. The bilingual English–French programme is delivered across Early Learning, Primary and Middle School. In Upper School, Cambridge International IGCSE (14–16) and International A Levels (16–18) are offered, with most subjects taught in English; students may take exams in their home language where possible. BIS administers SATs as an official College Board examination centre.	Curriculum details IS33 offers the International Baccalaureate continuum starting with the Primary Years Programme from kindergarten, incorporating Montessori pedagogy and English–French bilingualism. Core subjects are taught in both languages with a 50/50 French-English distribution, and two days per week are taught in French and two in English in the primary cycle. Cambridge exams are part of the programme, with Cambridge Young Learners offered and a 100% success rate reported in Cambridge exams, and Cambridge exam preparation provided annually. The four IB programmes are the Primary Programme (kindergarten–grade 5), Middle Years Programme (grade 6–10), International Baccalaureate Diploma (grade 11–12) and Career-related Programme (grade 11–12).
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Small class sizes: 10–12 per class in Early Learning; 16 per class in Primary and Secondary.	Student teacher ratio Class size is 15–20 students.
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results Cambridge exam preparation is provided every year and students take Cambridge English Qualifications with strong results. The school offers Cambridge Young Learners exams, and there is a 100% success rate reported for Cambridge exams in the elementary cycle. Cambridge exam preparation and related certifications are integrated into the curriculum to support students' academic development.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Students go on to study all over the world, most frequently in France, the UK, the Netherlands, the USA and Canada.	Higher education progression Universities and colleges benefit from IB education, with IB graduates typically pursuing undergraduate degrees and postgraduate studies. IB students are positioned for admission to prestigious universities and programs, including examples such as Ecole Polytechnique, HEC Paris, University of Oxford, and Harvard University.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented Teachers at IS33 work with children who have high intellectual potential, allowing them to develop at their own pace while accounting for their sensitivity and individual needs.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Student wellbeing and intercultural learning are central to BIS's approach. The school is a close-knit international community with more than 40 nationalities, where diversity is celebrated and students are encouraged to develop empathy and global understanding. The Personal, Social, Global Skills (PSGS) programme provides structured opportunities for social, emotional and intercultural development. Small class sizes support individual attention and positive relationships with staff (16 students per class). A tutor system and strong home–school communication underpin student wellbeing, with access to external bilingual professionals when needed.	Social & emotional learning The school places students at the heart of its educational project, with particular attention paid to their well-being and development. A focus on personal development, self-confidence and individual sensitivity is central. Students develop strong social and emotional skills.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) BIS provides Learning Support across Early Learning and Primary, with small classes and individualized follow-up. A dedicated Special Needs Coordinator collaborates with teachers, students and parents to identify and address diverse learning needs, and to develop Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for academic and social success. The Learning Support team also works with a Speech Therapist for targeted interventions, and may involve external consultants for more specialised needs. BIS maintains small class sizes (maximum 16 students per class) to enable personalised support.	Special educational needs (SEN) Small classes and personalised support for each student.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language BIS welcomes pupils who do not speak English, French or either language at enrolment. Language differences are not a barrier to education because language support is provided in Early Learning & Primary. For pupils starting out in French or English as a second language, a third language (Spanish) is provided only if needed; otherwise additional support in the second language is provided. A bilingual teaching assistant can accompany pupils in class to support language development. There are Second Language and Additional Language programmes at the IGCSE level to cater to diverse needs.	English as an additional language French-English bilingualism from kindergarten and throughout primary school; all subjects are taught in both languages. Additional language options include Spanish and Mandarin Chinese; Enhanced English as a second language; French as a foreign or second language.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The wellbeing of students is central; BIS has a comprehensive tutor system to support students at different stages of their education and to provide a central point of contact for students, parents and teachers. The school supports well-being through small class sizes and an effective communication network between school and home, enabling prompt intervention when required. BIS also has strong links with external bilingual professionals who can offer students and their families additional support when necessary.	Mental wellbeing The educational mission focuses on well-being and development. The goal is to enable students to be happy to go to work, to be respected as individuals, to have self-confidence, to respect others and to feel at ease in their environment. The school provides a calm and stimulating working environment to support well-being.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school has safeguarding policies and procedures to keep the school safe, including child protection, anti-bullying measures and online safety. There are two designated safeguarding leaders: Richard JONES (Early Learning and Primary) and Anni BLACKMORE (Secondary). Staff undergo regular safeguarding training to stay informed about policies and procedures. Open lines of communication encourage reporting of concerns with care, confidentiality and sensitivity. Safeguarding policies include both an English Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and a French version (Politique de sauvegarde et de protection de l'enfant).	Safeguarding —
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Located in the heart of Bordeaux with easy tram and bus access. Four student sections—Early Learning, Primary, Middle School and Upper School—each has its own learning space, and a new floor was added atop the secondary building in 2017. A partially covered on-site playground provides space for a range of activities. The Arts are supported by a dedicated Dance and Drama studio, and in 2023 BIS opened a brand new Art studio. An on-site canteen serves hot meals for Early Learning and Primary students, with Middle and Upper School students able to choose hot meals or packed lunches. The nearby sports centre offers facilities including a gymnasium, swimming pool, athletics track, tennis courts and an indoor area for ball games.	Facilities overview The IS33 campus consists of two modern buildings 500 metres apart. Building 1 covers 850 m² and serves Kindergarten to Grade 8, while Building 2 covers 480 m² for Grades 9 to 12. Building 1 was refurbished in 2019 and includes a library, science laboratory, visual arts rooms, interactive screens, and computers in every classroom, with tablets and 3D printers. There is 1800 m² of playground space with play structures, a football and basketball area, and a kindergarten playground, plus a 1000 m² secure outdoor area around Building 2. A dojo supports judo, sports and motor-skills classes; both buildings feature spacious outdoor spaces to support learning and pupil wellbeing.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The sports programme uses a nearby sports centre located a short walk from campus. Facilities include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, an athletics track, tennis courts and a gymnasium, plus an indoor area for ball games. BIS runs dedicated weekly sports classes taught by a specialist teacher.	Sports facilities There is a football and basketball area within the 1800 m² playground. A dojo supports judo, sports and motor-skills classes. Both buildings have spacious playgrounds, and there is a 1000 m² secure outdoor area for outdoor activity.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Four student sections—Early Learning, Primary, Middle School and Upper School—each has a designated space for learning, and a new floor on top of the secondary building was opened in 2017. BIS provides bilingual education across Early Learning, Primary and Middle School, with Cambridge International IGCSE, AS and A Levels in Upper School. Class sizes are small, with 10 to 12 pupils per class in Early Learning and 16 per class in Primary and Secondary. BIS draws on both the British and French curricular traditions to deliver bilingual education across the school.	Academic facilities IS33 is housed in two modern buildings 500 metres apart, with workspaces adapted to each level. Building 1 (850 m²) includes a library, science laboratory, visual arts rooms, interactive screens, and digital tools such as tablets and 3D printers. Building 2 (480 m²) provides large examination rooms, quiet study areas and laboratories. Refurbishments in 2019 refreshed spaces to be bright and welcoming. Outdoor spaces include 1800 m² playground and a 1000 m² secure outdoor area to support learning.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities There are many after-school clubs at BIS and the list continues to grow. Clubs in Early Learning and Primary include Arts & Crafts, Suzuki Violin, Chess and Chinese Club, as well as Robotics run with Magic Makers. In Secondary there are Model United Nations, Practical Science Skills, French Club and various dance and coding clubs, including Coding Club and Advanced Developers Club. BIS also runs the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, and students participate in house activities within Cousteau, Montesquieu, Alienor and Bonheur. Local and international trips are part of the programme, including destinations such as Spain, the UK, the USA and Italy.	Extra curricular facilities IS33 offers varied extra-curricular activities and a rich school life, including international events. From kindergarten onward, students participate in weekly physical activities and artistic activities such as music and art, supporting personal development.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Founded in 1987, Bordeaux International School has operated as an SCOP (Educational Cooperative) since 1999. The BIS SCOP was founded by Christine Cussac and is built on a collaborative, democratic model in which employees are associates and decisions are made according to the principle 'one person, one vote'. The school emphasizes bilingual education and intercultural learning, with small class sizes of 16 students per level to support individual growth. BIS aims to develop open‑minded global citizens through innovative teaching and a diverse, international environment.	History —
Community	Community BIS is a close-knit international community with more than 40 nationalities represented, celebrating differences and ensuring every student feels at home and valued. Diversity is celebrated and cultivated, encouraging dialogue and guiding us toward a harmonious global society. The school provides opportunities for intercultural exchanges and uses a Personal, Social, Global Skills (PSGS) programme alongside tailored learning approaches to suit different profiles. The community emphasizes equity and inclusion, ensuring fair opportunities for all students.	Community IS33 fosters a close, multilingual community near Bordeaux with small classes and a caring, international orientation. Class sizes are 15–20 pupils, enabling personalised support for each student. The campus comprises two modern buildings about 500 metres apart on a green site, with an 1800 m² garden and access to a range of cultural, artistic, scientific and linguistic activities, including regular school trips in France and abroad. Extra-curricular life includes robotics, theatre, music, and Model United Nations, contributing to a dynamic school culture.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The PTA brings together parents, teachers and management. The PTA board proposes initiatives and guides the Association's activities in collaboration with the school management. The PTA's mission is to foster community spirit and work together to provide the best possible educational environment for our pupils. PTA members welcome new families and organise family events outside the school, while also supporting fundraising. Regular events include the International Buffet, Halloween and Christmas parties, Sports Day and bake sales. Parents are invited to attend meetings, morning coffees and various events throughout the year.	Parent teacher association IS33 Association coordinates school life and international programs, including Erasmus+ mobility projects organized and co-financed by Erasmus+. The school's life features a broad calendar of events: culture-centered trips in France and Europe and university visits around the world, enriching student experiences. International celebrations (Halloween, Holi, Saint- Patrick, Christmas) are held as part of IS33's global culture week, fostering intercultural understanding. Performances and artistic projects, such as annual song and dance shows and eloquence presentations, are regular features of IS33 life. Family-focused gatherings strengthen community ties, including an end‑of‑year kermesse, dancing evenings, Welcome potluck, and family meetings.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual BIS provides bilingual French-English education across Early Learning, Primary and Middle School. In Upper Secondary, BIS offers Cambridge International IGCSE, AS and A Levels. The school draws inspiration from both the British National Curriculum and the French National Curriculum, delivering instruction in English and French in equal measure up to the completion of Upper Middle School. Small class sizes (10–12 per class in Early Learning and 16 per class in Primary and Secondary) support individual learning.	Academic & intellectual IS33 is an IB World School offering the four continuum programmes: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP). The Primary Years Programme begins in kindergarten. The French National Education curriculum is taught in parallel.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The Arts play a central role at BIS, with all students having opportunities to engage in dance, theatre, drawing, painting, modelling and music. This takes place within and beyond the curriculum, and students showcase their talents through shows and exhibitions. BIS views arts as essential to developing confidence and creativity.	Arts & creative IS33 provides weekly art and music sessions. Kindergarten includes two performances per year and offers piano and guitar. Extra-curricular activities include theatre, hip-hop, musical comedy, piano, guitar, violin, programming and tennis; robotics and MUN are also offered.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language BIS runs a multilingual program with French, English and Spanish language learning. In Early Learning and Primary, each class has two native-speaking teachers (French and English) and Spanish lessons begin at age four. In Middle School about half of subjects are taught in French and English (roughly 45% each) with about 10% of time spent on Spanish, and in Upper School English is the main language of study with continued French and opportunities to study Spanish; students may take exams in their home language where possible. The curriculum promotes international-mindedness through Global Perspectives/Global Skills and cross-cultural understanding.	Cultural & language Bilingual teaching begins from nursery with two days per week in French and two days per week in English, with teachers speaking only their mother tongue. In addition to bilingualism, IS33 offers Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, German and Russian as language options. Cambridge English Qualifications are prepared annually.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies There are many after-school clubs at BIS and the list of opportunities continues to grow. Clubs in Early Learning and Primary include Arts & Crafts, Suzuki Violin, Chess, Chinese Club, Robotics, Early Learning Wednesday Club, Singing Club, Classical Dance and Pianissimo. In Secondary, clubs include Model United Nations, Practical Science Skills, French Club, Contemporary Dance and Coding. All clubs are run subject to demand.	Social & hobbies Extracurricular activities include robotics, theatre, music and MUN. After-school offerings include theatre, hip-hop, musical comedy, piano, guitar, violin, programming and tennis. The school also organises field trips and cultural, artistic and scientific activities.
Community & service	Community & service BIS promotes community engagement through events and volunteering opportunities. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is available to students aged 14 and above and is a global youth development programme that develops life skills such as teamwork, leadership and communication; it includes exploration, skills, community service and team activities. It helps participants build confidence, resilience and global awareness.	Community & service In the Diploma Programme, Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) is included as community involvement. The IB programmes emphasise global awareness and social responsibility.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional BIS uses a four-House system named Cousteau, Montesquieu, Alienor and Rosa Bonheur, with students earning points for exemplary behaviour, outstanding work, initiative and participation. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award also develops leadership, teamwork, communication and problem-solving. These structures and programs cultivate leadership and professional skills across student life.	Leadership & professional Model United Nations (MUN) is offered as an extracurricular activity. Robotics, theatre and other activities provide opportunities for teamwork and project-based learning.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Safeguarding and wellbeing are priorities at BIS; the safety and wellbeing of students is paramount, with comprehensive safeguarding policies and a supportive environment. A tutor system supports students across stages, and small class sizes help tailor learning to individual needs. Designated safeguarding leaders oversee safeguarding, and BIS maintains links with external bilingual professionals for additional support when needed.	Lifestyle & wellbeing IS33 runs weekly sport classes and judo every week from age 4. The campus features an 1800 m² garden, a renovated building and direct access to Stade d'Ornon for sports. After-school daycare and homework help are available, and the school emphasises the well-being of the whole child (well-being in body, mind and spirit).
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school teaches in English and French, supporting bilingual proficiency from Early Learning through Upper School.	Language provision French-English bilingual instruction starts at kindergarten and continues through primary, with all subjects taught in both languages. Additional languages offered include Spanish and Mandarin Chinese, with Enhanced English as a second language and French as a foreign or second language available for language support. Cambridge English Qualifications are prepared for every year, and DELF junior, Cervantes and HSK language qualifications are offered. IB is offered across four programmes (Primary, Middle Years, Diploma and Career-related Programme), and exams may be taken in French, English or bilingual tracks.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The school provides bilingual education in English and French. Early Learning classes are taught by qualified native-speaking teachers. Class sizes are small, with 10–12 pupils per level in Early Learning and 16 pupils per class in Primary and Secondary.	Bilingual teaching From kindergarten onwards, teaching is bilingual in English and French; all subjects are taught in both languages, with teachers delivering lessons in their mother tongue. In secondary school, bilingual pupils join the international section to study English language and literature and sit bilingual IB exams. Non-bilingual students join a dedicated section with language support to progress at their own pace.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Immersion from nursery level in French, English, Spanish and Chinese, with native teachers. Immersion is integrated across the curriculum to develop language proficiency and cultural openness. The multilingual environment supports international-mindedness.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards The school has been recognised as a CIS School of Excellence since 2000.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations The school is accredited as a “School of Excellence” by the Council of International Schools (CIS) since 2000. The school is a Cambridge International Education centre since 1991. It has an associative contract with the French Ministry of Education since 2010 (simple contract since 1999). It is a member or affiliate of ECIS, ELSA, URSCOP, and the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award; it is part of the National Federation of Private Education (FNEP). The school holds CIS accreditation and is aligned with international and French educational standards.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Submit an application for Early Learning or Primary (3–10 years). The Admissions Committee reviews all applications because demand exceeds places each year. BIS welcomes foreign, binational and French students and reserves places for international families on short- and long-term missions to balance bilingual classes. No test is required for BIS registration before the age of 14. 2. For Middle School & Upper School (10–18 years), BIS admits students from around the world who demonstrate a positive attitude to work and accept the school's attendance conditions and Mission and Objectives. An Open Day is organized in February or March to allow visitors to discover the programme and meet the teaching team. Applicants for IGCSE must have sufficient English to benefit from the programme (CEFR B1; extra English support may be arranged at cost). Applicants for International A Level must have CEFR B2 English to follow the full range of subjects; they may be accepted with fewer English requirements only in certain circumstances or with longer duration. Applicants should have five IGCSE passes (or equivalent) including English and Mathematics, with a B in chosen A Level subjects where possible; where the certificates cannot be produced, prior assessment may be required. 3. Admissions Policy and Admissions Pack: The Admissions Policy 2025–26 in ENGLISH and the Admissions Pack 2025–26 in ENGLISH are available, with French versions also offered. These documents outline the official criteria, required documentation, and timelines for Early Learning through Upper School admissions and reflect BIS's bilingual mission. 4. Fees: Fees are published in the School Fees 2026/2027 document, which lists the annual tuition by section. For current amounts and payment schedules, refer to the Fees document. 5. An Open Day is also offered to showcase the school's programmes and facilities, and staff are available to answer questions during organised visits.	Admissions 1. File online — Fill in the application form. The admissions process is open year-round, subject to availability. Admission is based on the application and an interview; there is no academic entrance test. The International Baccalaureate Diploma is recognized by the French state and is integrated into Parcoursup. 2. Family interviews — Meet with management to discuss the educational project and your child's goals. This interview helps assess compatibility with the international bilingual program. You may be asked about your child's learning needs and expectations. 3. Visit the campus — Get to know the school and its teaching team during a campus visit. The visit allows you to see the school in operation and to ask questions about programs and daily routines. A representative guides you through facilities and daytime activities. 4. Decision — You will receive a decision within 10 days of the interview and campus visit. Admission decisions are based on the application and interview; no entrance exam is required. The enrollment decision is communicated with the next steps for registration. 5. Finalisation — Complete administrative registration to finalize enrollment. Provide the required documents and confirm the starting date. Subsequent onboarding information will be provided.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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