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British School of Sofia

Bulgaria, Sofia

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees €600 - 17,900
Ages 2 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 450
Type Co-educational
Opened 2009
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, IB (PYP), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme)
Taught languages Bulgarian, Spanish, French, German, Russian
Typical class size 15
Strengths Sport, STEM, Visual and Creative Arts
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Community and Service
Stages Early Years, Kindergarten, Primary School, Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction

The British School of Sofia is a British international day school with three campuses (two in Sofia and one in Plovdiv) and IB World School status. It serves ages 2 to 18 and uses IEYC in Early Years, Cambridge Primary Programme, Cambridge IGCSE, IMYC, IB PYP, DP and CP, plus IBCP. English is the language of instruction with EAL support; Bulgarian is offered as a native language option, and IB language options include English, Bulgarian, French among others. The school opened in 2009; moved to newly built premises in 2019; in summer 2025 construction began on a new campus to expand facilities. Facilities include a Main Building since 2019 with a wide multifunctional sports field, a Primary School playground, well-lit classrooms, interactive whiteboards, audio systems; a new science lab, MAC Lab and Windows Lab; Robotics Room and Lego Room; Art Room; gym; large hall; library; iPads for every student. Active after-school clubs.

The Essentials

British School of Sofia has 450 pupils, typical class sizes of 15, instruction in English.

Location
Sofia, Vitosha district, with a Plovdiv campus. WonderWorld Kindergarten is at 15 Ivan Radoev Street for 2–9-year-olds, and British School and College is at 20 Georgi Raichev Street for 10–18-year-olds. Plovdiv campus is at 45 Tsar Ivan Asen II Street.

Stages
WonderWorld - Kindergarten; Grades 1-4 (2–9 years). British School and College (10–18 years).

Type
British international day school with three campuses (Sofia two campuses and Plovdiv) and IB World School status.

Additional learning support
EAL (English as an Additional Language) classes are offered. Additional language classes in Spanish, French, German, and Chinese are available. Learning support includes extra Maths and Science lessons; digital tools such as Fast ForWord and Clear Fluency support language and literacy development.

Country affiliation
British international school located in Bulgaria (Sofia and Plovdiv campuses).

School day structure
Kindergarten day runs 8:00–16:00, with Welcome and breakfast 8:00–9:00; Story Time 9:00–9:15; breaks 10:00–11:30 and 12:00–12:40; nap/quiet time 13:00–15:00; 16:00–17:00 free play and pick-up. Young Engineers (6–14) day runs 8:00–17:00 with breaks at 10:20–10:50 and 12:10–13:10, and a 16:00–17:00 pick-up window.

Bus service
Door-to-door transport in Sofia with either round-trip or one-way options; three zones: Zone 1 Inner Ring, Zone 2 Middle Ring, Zone 3 Outer Ring. 2024–2025 transport fees apply. Admissions: +359 886 510 510; office@bssofia.bg.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Uniforms are ordered directly from the official supplier's online store. Kindergarten-Grade 6 and Grades 7-12 have separate ordering pages.

Food Options
The canteen offers a monthly menu aligned with the needs of growing children and provides hot meals at lunchtime with vegetarian options, salads, and fruit. Kindergarten meals occur three times a day: 10:00 fruit breakfast, 12:45 lunch, and 15:00 afternoon snack. In School & College, meals occur twice daily: 10:00 fruit breakfast and 13:00 lunch, and there is a cafeteria snack shop available for purchases.

House System
The school has a house system with four houses (Dragon, Phoenix, Kraken, Centaur). Pupils wear house membership T‑shirts and house competitions encourage social activities and teamwork.

Governance and Ownership
The proprietor and principal is Mrs. Teodora Nenova; The chair of the board of governors is Mrs. Teodora Nenova.
Fees

Annual tuition at British School of Sofia ranges from EUR 600 to EUR 17,900 for 2026/27.

Application / Enrolment fee

- Kindergarten (Nursery, Reception): EUR 600 one-off enrolment fee for new students.
- School (Grades 1–IGCSE Year 2) and College (IB DP Years): EUR 1,000 one-off enrolment fee for new students. For IB DP Year 1 & Year 2 the enrolment fee is shown as EUR 1,000.

Tuition fees by year group (annual and instalments)

- Nursery: Annual tuition EUR 9,980; two instalments of EUR 5,160; three instalments of EUR 3,630.
- Reception: Annual tuition EUR 10,500; two instalments of EUR 5,550; three instalments of EUR 3,890.
- Grade 1 & 2: Annual tuition EUR 13,000; two instalments of EUR 6,900; three instalments of EUR 4,830.
- Grade 3 – 6: Annual tuition EUR 14,300; two instalments of EUR 7,600; three instalments of EUR 5,300.
- Grade 7 – 9: Annual tuition EUR 15,300; two instalments of EUR 8,098; three instalments of EUR 5,680.
- IGCSE Year 1 & Year 2: Annual tuition EUR 16,600; two instalments of EUR 8,800; three instalments of EUR 6,200.
- IB Diploma Programme Year 1: Annual tuition EUR 17,900; two instalments of EUR 9,350; three instalments of EUR 6,560.
- IB Diploma Programme Year 2: Annual tuition EUR 17,900; two instalments of EUR 9,350; three instalments of EUR 6,560.

(All school tuition figures are quoted in EUR for an academic year that covers 10 months.)

Billing schedule and payment terms (deadlines and instalment rules)

- Parents may choose one annual payment, two instalments, or three instalments. The payment deadlines shown are:
- One instalment: due by 30 June 2025.
- Two instalments: due by 30 June 2025 and 30 January 2026.
- Three instalments: due by 30 June 2025, 28 November 2025, and 27 February 2026.
- Enrolment is for a full school year; students enrolling mid-year are charged pro rata for remaining school weeks (vacations excluded).
- The enrolment (application) fee is a one-off payment for new students, non-discountable and non-refundable.

School meals and related billing

- Kindergarten meals: 3,020 BGN annually (approx. EUR 1,540); two instalments 1,590 BGN (approx. EUR 810); three instalments 1,120 BGN (approx. EUR 570).
- School & College meals: 3,315 BGN annually (approx. EUR 1,690); two instalments 1,745 BGN (approx. EUR 890); three instalments 1,235 BGN (approx. EUR 630).
- Meal fees may be paid in one, two or three instalments using the same deadlines as tuition. Once a meal service is taken and paid for, refunds are not made for the academic year; if a meal service is cancelled during the year, only subsequent days (not prior days) may be credited.

Transport fees (home–school–home) and zones

- Transport fees are charged by zone and by one-way or two-way service. Examples shown (annual and instalment breakdowns are provided):
- Zone 1: Two-way 3,430 BGN (approx. EUR 1,750); two instalments 1,805 BGN (approx. EUR 920); three instalments 1,275 BGN (approx. EUR 650). One-way 2,080 BGN (approx. EUR 1,060); two instalments 1,100 BGN (approx. EUR 560); three instalments 765 BGN (approx. EUR 390).
- Zone 2: Two-way 4,570 BGN (approx. EUR 2,330); one-way 2,725 BGN (approx. EUR 1,390).
- Zone 3: Two-way 5,705 BGN (approx. EUR 2,910); one-way 3,265 BGN (approx. EUR 1,665).
- Transport service covers Sofia area and is optional; no discounts apply to transport fees. Transport invoices follow the same instalment deadlines as tuition.

Boarding

- The school's published information describes a day-school model with optional school meals and home–school transport; no boarding provision or boarding fees are listed in the school's published services.

Other costs and additional fees

- External examination fees are charged in addition to tuition where applicable: Cambridge Primary Checkpoint (Grade 6), Cambridge Secondary 1 Checkpoint (Grade 9), IGCSE Year 2 exam fees, and IB Diploma Year 2 exam fees are billed separately according to the relevant exam board rates.
- Fast ForWord accelerated English support (when required for new students) is charged at EUR 100 per month; the duration depends on the student's needs.
- A resources fee is included in the tuition and covers access to electronic learning materials and other compulsory curriculum-related materials.
- Uniforms: students are required to wear school uniform; a separate uniform cost is not listed in the published fee schedule.
- Sibling discounts: 5% discount for a second child and 10% discount for a third and any subsequent child from the same family (applied to tuition).

Refund and late-payment policy

- Tuition fees are non-refundable once paid. No refund is payable if cancellation is received seven (7) days or less before the school year/semester start date, or if a student withdraws or is withdrawn at any time after the academic year/semester commencement date. Fees are also not refundable for breaches of enrolment terms, disciplinary exclusion, or unsatisfactory academic progress. Refunds may be granted only at the school's discretion in exceptional circumstances.
- If a student enrols mid-year, fees are calculated pro rata for the remaining academic weeks (vacations excluded).
- Late payment: if a payment is overdue by more than seven (7) days, the school may not guarantee the student's place; continued non-payment may result in temporary suspension until outstanding balances are settled. No official documents or reports will be issued while amounts remain outstanding.

Fee payment arrangements and instructions

- Tuition, meal and transport fees are quoted in EUR (meals and transport are shown in BGN with EUR approximations). Parents choose between annual, two-instalment or three-instalment schedules and must meet the instalment deadlines given above. The school issues invoices and provides the payment instructions and billing arrangements to parents as part of the enrolment/billing process.

(If you require the fees presented in another currency or need a different display format for database entry, the numerical figures above are given as published.)
Academics

British School of Sofia teaches British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, IB (PYP), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme) for students aged 2 to 18.

Curriculum
IEYC is used in the Early Years, Cambridge Primary Programme for ages 5–11, Cambridge Secondary, IPC, and IMYC. The school is licensed to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and provides the IB Diploma Programme (DP) and the IB Career Programme (CP). Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) courses are taught, and IGCSE revision courses are offered in the summer. Art & Design is offered in IGCSE, and Visual Arts is offered in the IB Diploma Programme. English is the language of instruction with EAL support; Bulgarian is offered as a native language option, and there are IB language options including English, Bulgarian, and French among others.

Student Teacher Ratio
Student to teacher ratio 5:1; average class size 15 students, maximum 20.

Higher Education Progression
IB Diploma is widely recognized by universities. Some IB students can receive university credits before enrolling; high IB scores can be accepted for credit or advanced standing by some universities. For example, Oxford commonly requires 38–40 points with 18 at Higher Level; Yale and New York University have accepted IB results as alternatives to certain standardized tests. Universities across Europe and the UK set various IB score expectations (e.g., University of Amsterdam 36, ETH Zurich 38, University of Copenhagen 30, Université PSL 33, Sorbonne University 33). Graduates from BSS have been admitted to universities such as Charles University, Bocconi University, University of Amsterdam, Warwick Business School, University of Manchester, and Concordia University, with many progressing to master's programs. The IB diploma is associated with enhanced access to scholarships and financial aid in some cases.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school delivers social-emotional learning through planned Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHEE) lessons as part of the curriculum. It includes the Youth Effectiveness Programme (YET), circle time, and themed assemblies linked to the school's values and the informal curriculum. The approach emphasizes developing social skills, collaboration, ethical understanding, and the ability to work with others. The school fosters holistic development with social and emotional learning integrated across formal teaching and everyday school life.

Mental Wellbeing
Pastoral care focuses on the physical and emotional welfare of each student and aims to promote mental wellbeing. It supports personal and social development, with a counsellor and a network of staff across the school. The welfare of every pupil is safeguarded as part of daily teaching and school life, ensuring they feel safe, happy, and able to learn. SMSC development is a core expectation and is supported by relationships among staff and the pastoral programme.

Safeguarding
Promoting and safeguarding the welfare of every student underpins everything we do. The school aims to create the safest environment within which each pupil can achieve their potential. Pastoral care supports physical and emotional welfare and helps monitor progress to keep students safe and supported. The school has a counsellor and a strong network of staff who work together to identify and address concerns, ensuring students are happy, safe, and learning.
Parent Experience

History
Established in 2009, the British School of Sofia has grown to a multi-campus presence. In 2019, due to growth, the school moved to newly built premises, occupying three buildings in close proximity. In summer 2025, construction began on a new BSS campus to expand its facilities.

Community
BSS has welcomed international families from more than 45 countries, who now make up around 65% of the school community; local families account for about 35%. Teachers bring international experience, and official exams have been offered in nine languages with past student exchanges. The community is extended through Lead Class Parents who bridge class teachers and the parent community, partnerships with local charitable foundations and a meals provider, and memberships in COBIS and British Schools Overseas.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Lead Class Parents act as a bridge between the class teacher and the parent community.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Since moving to the new Main Building in 2019, the British School of Sofia offers a modern campus with a wide multifunctional sports field and a vibrant Primary School playground. The classrooms are well lit with large windows, furnished, and equipped with interactive whiteboards and an audio system. A brand-new science lab, a MAC Lab, and a Windows Lab support science and technology learning, while a Robotics Room and a Lego Room enable hands-on design and coding activities. An Art Room, a gymnasium for PE, and a large hall provide space for creativity, performances and events, while the library supports reading and research. The school uses iPads in classrooms, with every student having a device to enhance learning.

Sports Facilities
The school has a multifunctional sports field suitable for football, volleyball, basketball and tennis. The gymnasium supports PE classes whenever outdoor activity is not possible. Table Tennis is available as an extracurricular activity.

Academic Facilities
The school has a brand-new science lab for Chemistry, Physics and Biology. The MAC Lab and Windows Lab support computing and digital learning. A Robotics Room and a dedicated Lego Room support coding and engineering activities. An Interactive Classroom uses iPads, with every student having a device to enable learning. The library supports reading and research.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Lego Room and Robotics Room host Lego and Robotics classes that teach coding, building instructions, and programming missions. The Art Room provides space for creative projects, and the Hall hosts performances and dance classes. The Library supports reading and independent study, and Table Tennis is available as an after-school activity.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The school runs the Duke of Edinburgh Award programme as part of its extracurricular offering. It also provides competitions to challenge students beyond the classroom and a Mental Arithmetic club to develop numerical skills. An Arabic Language extracurricular is available to support language development. These activities extend learning opportunities beyond standard timetables.

Arts & Creative
The school offers Vocal Group, Piano, Guitar, Modern Dance and Applied Arts as after-school activities. These clubs enable students to develop performance, craft and creative expression outside lessons. Participation provides opportunities to collaborate with peers and showcase work.

Cultural & Language
The school provides Arabic Language as an extracurricular activity. This supports language development and cultural awareness. The program complements the school's broad language offerings.

Social & Hobbies
The program includes Sports & Fun as a general recreational activity, with specific options such as Football and Taekwondo. These activities promote teamwork, physical activity and social interaction. Students can explore interests beyond academics.

Community & Service
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is part of the extracurricular programme. House Systems foster a sense of community across year groups. School Trips and Ski Week expand community experiences beyond the campus.

Leadership & Professional
Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award builds leadership and project-management skills. House Systems provide leadership opportunities within the student body. Competitions offer opportunities to lead and collaborate with peers.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Sports & Fun, Taekwondo and Football support physical fitness and well-being. Dance and music activities promote mental well-being through creative expression. The broad range of activities encourages a balanced lifestyle.
Languages

Language Provision
The language of instruction is English. Native languages include English, Bulgarian, Chinese, German, and Russian. Foreign languages offered include English, Bulgarian, Spanish, French, German, and Russian.
Reputation

Accreditations
Department for Education: The school is the only British School in Bulgaria registered with the Department for Education (DfE) of the British Ministry of Education with the unique number URN 142484 as a British School Overseas.
BSO accreditation: The school is the only Bulgarian school inspected by PENTA, an accredited body for inspecting British Schools Overseas; the inspection report is supplied to the British Ministry of Education.
Bulgarian Ministry of Education: A British School of Sofia diploma is recognised by the Bulgarian Ministry of Education.
Cambridge International School: The school is an accredited Cambridge International School that offers Cambridge Primary, Cambridge Lower Secondary, and Cambridge Upper-Secondary, with students receiving a Cambridge Diploma for their Secondary education.
IB Diploma Programme: The school has been an accredited IB Diploma International School since 2016; in 2021, after an inspection by the IB DP authorities, it retained its status as an IB World School.
IB Career-related Programme: The school is an IB World School offering the IB Career-related Programme.
IB Primary Years Programme: The school became a fully licensed IB PYP school in 2025.
Council of the British International Schools: The school is accredited by COBIS (The Council of the British International Schools).
Admissions

Admissions
The Admissions section provides access to Financial Terms 2025 - 2026, Entry Requirements, FAQ and Book a Visit. Financial Terms cover the Enrolment Fee and multiple payment options (Annual, Two Payments, Three Payments) for Kindergarten, School and College, with specific payment deadlines. School meals and door-to-door transport are available for an additional fee, and a Resources fee applies to learning materials; external examination fees may apply for Cambridge and IB assessments. English proficiency support is available via Fast ForWord at €100 per month if required, and a family discount reduces fees for a second (5%) and a third or subsequent child (10%). Fees are quoted in euros for a 10-month academic year and can be paid in one, two, or three instalments with deadlines such as 30 June 2025, 30 January 2026, 28 November 2025 and 27 February 2026. Entry Requirements describe documents and steps for Kindergarten, School and College enrolment (online apply, birth certificates, parent IDs; medical documents for younger children; placement tests in English and Maths for older cohorts; English-language level targets and use of Fast ForWord if needed). For College, entrance exams in English and Maths and an interview are arranged during trial days. The FAQ confirms BSS covers ages 2–18, outlines curriculum pathways (British National Curriculum, IEYC, Cambridge Primary/Lower Secondary/IMYC, IGCSE, IB DP), notes English as the language of instruction, and describes school meals and transport, uniform expectations, application timing (January–June, with summer entry possible), and how to apply (contact the Admissions team by email or phone). It also notes the school is the only accredited British School Overseas in Bulgaria, and provides details on nationalities, class sizes, and student body as part of the FAQs.
School Events
The school has not added events
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