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Riffa Views International School

Bahrain, Manama

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees BHD 3,600 - 9,200
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 400
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum
Introduction

Riffa Views International School (RVIS) is a non-profit international day school in Riffa (Manama), Bahrain, located at Building 407, Road 4303, Block 943. The school serves children aged 3 to 18, from Early Childhood through High School, and delivers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma programmes alongside a U.S.-style / American college-preparatory pathway that leads to an internal RVIS High School Diploma (with SAT preparation) and the option of the IB Diploma. The medium of instruction is English; Arabic is taught as the national language and the school also offers French and Spanish. The campus includes a range of facilities to support curricular and co‑curricular learning, specifically science laboratories, a two‑storey library, gymnasiums, a 25‑metre swimming pool, tennis courts, music and performing‑arts suites and an artificial turf field. RVIS additionally runs hands-on STEM initiatives, including the MIT MISTI Arab World robotics and engineering workshops.

Riffa Views, Building 407, Road 4303 Block 943, Bahrain

The Essentials

Riffa Views International School has 400 pupils, instruction in English.

Location

RVIS is located at Building 407, Road 4303, Block Al Mazrowiah 943, in Riffa, Kingdom of Bahrain. It sits in the Riffa Views area within the Southern Governorate, with road access linking to central Manama. The campus mail address is P.O. Box 3050, Bahrain. Public transport in Bahrain serves Riffa via the national bus network and local routes.

Stages

RVIS provides Early Childhood through High School. The school uses IB across Primary Years (PYP), Middle Years (MYP), and the IB Diploma Programme (DP) for the secondary years, alongside an American standard bilingual education with optional IB Curriculum.

Type

RVIS is a co-educational, day school.

Pupil Nationality Mix

RVIS represents about 37 nationalities; around 40% of students are Bahraini and 60% are international, with total enrollment in the low hundreds to around 400 students depending on year.

Additional learning support

A dedicated Student Support Services team supports students with pastoral care, counseling, mental health, and targeted academic support. The team includes a Head of Pastoral Care, School Counselors, a School Psychologist, and Learning Support Teachers.

Country affiliation

RVIS operates in Bahrain and is Bahrain-based; it follows an American Standard Bilingual Education with optional IB Curriculum, and its public accreditation reflects its Bahrain location.

Religious affiliation

RVIS follows the Bahrain Ministry of Education Islamic Studies curriculum for Muslim students; there is no separate religious affiliation publicly stated by the school.

School day structure

The school operates Sunday to Thursday. Typical daily hours are around the morning start and afternoon finish, with Thursdays sometimes operating on a shortened day for certain grades.

Bus service

Public bus services in Bahrain are run by the Bahrain Public Transport Company and connect Riffa with Manama and other towns; families can arrange transport through the admissions process. In the past, RVIS has facilitated transport arrangements for students living outside Bahrain (e.g., a Saudi-based shuttle for cross-border families).
Diving Deeper

Governance and Ownership

The school is a non-profit.
Fees

Annual tuition at Riffa Views International School ranges from BHD 3,600 to BHD 9,200 for 2026/27.

Application and admissions fees
- Admissions Fee: BHD 100, payable at the time of application. This fee is non-refundable.
- One-time Capital Fee: BHD 500, payable upon completion of admission and evaluation. This fee is non-transferable and non-refundable.
- Technology Fee: BHD 200 per academic year, payable at admission for new students or at re-enrolment for returning students. This fee is non-transferable and non-refundable.
- Device Deposit: Refundable deposit of BHD 100 for borrowing a school-issued laptop/device; refundable on return in good condition.
- Grade 12 Graduation Fee: BHD 350 payable in the first quarter of Grade 12.

Tuition fees (per semester and annual) — by year group
- Nursery – Pre-K: BHD 1,800 per semester; BHD 3,600 per year.
- Kindergarten – Grade 2: BHD 2,450 per semester; BHD 4,900 per year.
- Grades 3 – 5: BHD 2,900 per semester; BHD 5,800 per year.
- Grades 6 – 8: BHD 3,450 per semester; BHD 6,900 per year.
- Grades 9 – 10: BHD 4,050 per semester; BHD 8,100 per year.
- Grades 11 – 12: BHD 4,600 per semester; BHD 9,200 per year.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Tuition invoices are issued semi-annually and are billed in Bahraini Dinars.
- Invoice due dates: Semester 1 invoices are due on June 1; Semester 2 invoices are due on January 15.
- Discount for full-year payment: A 2% discount applies if the full year's tuition is paid by June 1 (discount applies to tuition only).
- Family incentive: A 10% discount applies to the tuition fee from the third child and 15% for each subsequent child from the same immediate family (conditions apply).
- New-student reservation deposit: For new students enrolled prior to April 1, a 10% non-refundable deposit of tuition is required to reserve a seat. Students enrolled after April 1 must pay full semester tuition on admission.
- The school may require payment of tuition in full at application where deemed appropriate.
- Late-admission and prorating: Tuition for late entry is prorated on an academic quarter basis. If a student begins in a quarter they are charged the quarter rate: Quarter I = 100% of annual tuition; Quarter II = 75%; Quarter III = 50%; Quarter IV = 25%. If a student attends even one day of a quarter, there is no rebate for that quarter.
- Non-payment: The school reserves the right to suspend enrolment, deny re-registration, withhold student records, and pursue legal action for recovery of outstanding fees.

Other costs and optional charges
- Uniforms: School uniform costs are not covered by tuition.
- Transport: Bus/transportation is not included in tuition and is charged separately.
- Meals: Lunch is not included; students may bring lunch or purchase food from the school cafeteria.
- Extra-curricular or trip costs: These are not included in tuition and are charged separately when applicable. (General statement consistent with fees policy.)

Refunds, withdrawal and re-enrolment rules
- Automatic re-enrolment: Students are automatically re-enrolled for the following academic year unless written notification of withdrawal is received by April 1.
- Withdrawal processing fee: A non-refundable BD 50 withdrawal fee is charged for processing withdrawal documents.
- Late withdrawal penalty: If withdrawal notification is received after April 1, parents will be charged 50% of the first semester's tuition; this amount must be settled before withdrawal paperwork or student records are released.
- Refunds for early withdrawal: If a student withdraws during the first semester, second-semester tuition may be reimbursable only if all three conditions are met: written notice to the Head of School at least 30 days before the second semester, the student is no longer residing in Bahrain, and the vacant seat is successfully filled; otherwise no reimbursement. For withdrawals during the second semester, second-semester tuition and other fees will not be reimbursed. Refund rules tied to specific dates: before April 1 of the previous school year 100% of tuition is refundable (excluding non-refundable fees); after April 1 the first-quarter tuition is charged; within two weeks prior to start of the academic year the first-semester tuition is charged; 30 days before the start of the second semester only the second-semester tuition is refundable.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is not applicable: RVIS is a day school (boarding facilities: day), so no boarding fees apply.

Fee payment options
- Invoices are issued in Bahraini Dinars and an Online Payment portal is provided via the school's quick links. The published tuition schedule does not specify the full list of accepted payment instruments (for example, exactly which credit cards or bank-transfer details are accepted). Parents should use the school's online payment portal or contact the school's accounts/admissions office for the specific payment methods and bank remittance instructions.
Academics

Riffa Views International School teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum

Riffa Views International School delivers an IB World School curriculum from Early Childhood through High School. The Primary Years Program (PYP) supports early learners with inquiry-based, cross-curricular learning, while the Middle Years Program (MYP) extends the IB framework for ages 11 to 16 with an interdisciplinary approach. The High School offers three graduation pathways, including the IB Diploma Program (taught in English), which RVIS has offered since the 2014–15 school year. The Arabic program supports native and non-native speakers and aligns with IB Arabic A and B tracks to support bilingual diplomas. RVIS supplements IB with Extended Learning Time, Careers Education and Guidance, and hands-on learning such as STEAM, MISTI, and Innovation Day to develop inquiry, digital literacy, and college readiness.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

RVIS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a dedicated Student Support Services team that works with the Academic Leadership Team to help every student thrive academically, socially, and personally. The team includes a Head of Pastoral Care who coordinates school-wide well-being initiatives, School Counselors who provide guidance and emotional support, a School Psychologist who leads mental health initiatives, and Learning Support Teachers who deliver targeted academic interventions. This arrangement provides individual guidance, small-group programs, and school-wide initiatives to promote social, emotional, and academic health. The pastoral care pathway, counseling, and psychology services are integrated with classroom learning to support inclusion and well-being. The school emphasizes resilience, self-management, and healthy relationships as core outcomes of SEL.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

RVIS provides learning support through dedicated Learning Support Teachers who deliver targeted academic support and interventions tailored to individual student needs. The School Support Services team collaborates with the Academic Leadership Team to ensure inclusive learning and address diverse needs. The materials do not describe RVIS as a specialist SEN institution, and no explicit list of specific SEN categories is published. The school notes tailored teaching strategies, accommodations, and interventions to help each student reach their potential, with plans created collaboratively with students, teachers, and families. The school does not publicly disclose a published list of the types of Special Educational Needs the school can support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English is the main language of instruction at RVIS. Students developing their English skills receive extra support while continuing to value their home language, especially Arabic. RVIS offers language programs in English, Arabic, French, and Spanish. A dedicated EAL program is not explicitly described beyond the English language support noted. The school does not publicly disclose a separate EAL department or specific EAL curriculum.

Mental Wellbeing

The School Psychologist leads initiatives to promote mental health and well-being, offering individual and group support as needed. The Head of Pastoral Care oversees the pastoral care program and coordinates school-wide well-being initiatives. School Counselors provide guidance and emotional support to help students navigate personal, social, and academic challenges. RVIS's on-campus clinic supports health and wellbeing, with a full-time nurse, health education, and wellness programs. The campus provides health monitoring, emergency response readiness, and health education to support student wellbeing.

Safeguarding

Student safeguarding is a priority at RVIS, with state-of-the-art security measures throughout the school. The Campus Overview specifies secure entrances and biometrics for attendance as part of safeguarding. The on-campus clinic and health education contribute to safeguarding by addressing student welfare. School policies define a foundation of safety, respect, and support, with tailored accommodations and collaborative planning for individual needs. Overall, safeguarding at RVIS is embedded in governance, health services, and policies to create a safe, inclusive environment.
Parent Experience

History

RVIS opened in 2008 in Riffa Views, Bahrain, in partnership with International School Services (ISS). It began as a small, non-profit international school focused on personalized learning and cultural alignment with Bahrain. RVIS was authorized as an IB World School in 2013 and has continued to pursue international accreditation, including a Council of International Schools (CIS) reaccreditation in 2022. By 2025, RVIS announced it had transitioned to a full International Baccalaureate program across its offerings.

Community

RVIS fosters a close-knit, international student community with a diverse mix of nationalities. It hosts and participates in events that involve students, families, and residents, such as interschool chess tournaments hosted by RVIS and broader community chess events. The school participates in community initiatives organized by the Riffa Views Owners Association, including Tree Week plantings and other service activities. RVIS's athletic programs include participation in local leagues such as the Bahrain Senior School Sports League, reflecting a strong emphasis on sports within the community.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The RVIS Parent-Teacher Partnership (PTP) was founded as a social partnership between parents and teachers to strengthen the relationship between the school and the RVIS community. The PTP coordinates with the school to support school initiatives and invites parent involvement. A Parent Consultative Council (PCC) promotes communication between the school and parent community; PCC members regularly advise the Head of School and assist with school initiatives. For involvement, parents can contact the PTP at ptp@rvis.edu.bh. Other parent resources include Lunch Service, Transportation, Uniforms, and the School Calendar 24-25.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

The RVIS campus is designed to support learning through exploration, collaboration, and reflection with a range of inspirational learning spaces. Classrooms are technology-rich and supported by a 1:1 laptop program, and there are four fully equipped science labs along with dedicated rooms for art, music, and drama, plus flexible spaces for group and individual work. The Innovation Hub is a state-of-the-art STEAM facility, equipped with digital fabrication and prototyping, electronics and robotics, AI, programming, and virtual/augmented reality tools. The library is a welcoming space offering books for all ages with reading corners and quiet study areas, plus access to digital resources. On-campus facilities include a FIFA-standard soccer field (scheduled for resurfacing in summer 2025), two gymnasiums, six outdoor tennis courts, and basketball courts; an on-campus clinic and a cafeteria support daily life, and safety is maintained with biometric systems and controlled entrances.

Sports Facilities

The sports facilities include a FIFA-standard soccer field (scheduled for resurfacing in summer 2025). There are two gymnasiums, six outdoor tennis courts, and basketball courts. These spaces are used for physical education classes, extracurricular activities, and community events.

Academic Facilities

The RVIS classroom environment is technology-rich and supported by a 1:1 laptop program. There are four fully equipped science labs and specialist rooms for art, music, and drama, along with flexible spaces for group and individual work. The Innovation Hub provides STEAM facilities including digital fabrication and prototyping, electronics and robotics, AI and software development, VR/AR, and related tools. The RVIS library offers a welcoming space with books for all ages, reading corners, quiet study areas, and access to digital resources. Language programs include English, Arabic, French, and Spanish.

Extra Curricular Facilities

RVIS offers a variety of extracurricular activities as part of its IB framework. The Extended Learning Time (ELT) program provides activities across academic, creative, athletic, and service-oriented areas. Hands-on programs such as STEAM, MISTI, and Innovation Day promote digital literacy, robotics, AI, software engineering, programming, and related areas through the Innovation Hub. The school partners with MIT's MISTI Arab World program to provide robotics and engineering workshops, and there are opportunities for field experiences and leadership initiatives as part of the IB pathway.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

RVIS offers an IB-based curriculum from Early Childhood to High School. It is an authorized IB World School offering the Diploma Program, with Primary Years Program and Middle Years Program. The academic program emphasizes conceptual understanding, inquiry-based learning, and interdisciplinary connections within global contexts across the IB framework. Growth is central to the approach, with standards guiding each student's development. Programs such as STEAM, MISTI, and Innovation Day promote hands-on learning in robotics, artificial intelligence, software development, and related digital skills.

Arts & Creative

Arts education is supported by specialist rooms for art, music, and drama, and a library that supports reading and research. The Innovation Hub provides STEAM learning with digital fabrication, electronics and robotics, AI and software development, VR/AR, and flexible spaces for project work.

Cultural & Language

The school offers language programs in English, Arabic, French, and Spanish. The Arabic program serves native and non-native speakers and follows the Bahrain Ministry of Education framework, with Arabic A and B tracks.

Social & Hobbies

The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities. The Extended Learning Time (ELT) program provides academic, creative, athletic, and service-oriented activities beyond the regular timetable.

Community & Service

The school provides internship programs, community engagement opportunities, and leadership initiatives. College counselors support university options, planning, and deadlines, including essay writing and scholarship searches, with university representatives visiting campus for guidance.

Leadership & Professional

Leadership initiatives and internship opportunities are available for students. College counselors guide students through university options, application processes, and scholarship searches, with university representatives visiting campus.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The campus includes an on-site clinic operated by a full-time nurse, health monitoring, and emergency response procedures. Safety and security are prioritized with a secured entrance and biometric attendance tracking. The cafeteria serves nutritious options from Healthy Calorie. Sports facilities include a FIFA-standard soccer field, two gymnasiums, six outdoor tennis courts, and basketball courts.
Languages

Language Provision

The school offers language programs in English, Arabic, French and Spanish.
Reputation

Awards

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Accreditations

IB World School; offers IB Diploma Programme
Admissions

Admissions

Stage 1: Initial Application Submission. Applicants must submit academic transcripts (middle and high school: stamped original transcripts for the past three years; Early Years (age 6+) must provide at least one year of transcripts), attendance and behavior reports (including number of days present and absent and reasons for absences), completed application form, proof of payment (Receipt of BHD 100), CAT 4 test results, and interview result, if applicable. Stage 2: Assessment Process. Early Childhood applicants complete an interview assessment; Grade 1 and above applicants complete the CAT 4 assessment; feedback is obtained from an Academic Head or Principal to assess academic readiness and social fit within the school community. Stage 3: Admission Decision. Acceptance includes notification to parents; conditional acceptance requires a follow-up meeting to set terms, review the process, and establish assessment points, with a minimum of two checkpoints; the school provides a welcome package for the student; the student's start date is added to the school portal; contact information is updated, and parents are added to relevant groups if applicable; primary and secondary administration are informed of the student's admission. Deferment allows families to reapply after six months. Denied means families cannot reapply. Declined triggers the school sending a survey to the family. The application is submitted online via OpenApply. Priority Admissions: Siblings of current students are given priority in the admission process.
School Events
The school has not added events