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Spectrum International School - Astana

Kazakhstan, Astana

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The school at a glance
Fees KZT 6,470,000 - 9,400,000
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 505
Type Co-educational
Opened 2008
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages English, French, Russian, Turkish, Korean, Mandarin, Kazakh
Typical class size 20
Strengths STEM, Performing Arts, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction

Spectrum International School Astana delivers a Cambridge International Curriculum for ages 3 to 18, with a dual diploma option. The school runs Cambridge Primary Grades 0–5, Lower Secondary 6–8, Cambridge IGCSE 9–10, and Advanced AS/A Levels 11–12, with the curriculum adapted to Spectrum's context and aligned to CAIE standards. The school provides a 13-year education and operates a Testing Center for international exams to support entry to leading universities. The campus is housed in a new building opened in 2023–24, five minutes from the Khazret Sultan Mosque, with science laboratories, rehearsal and performance spaces, and skylights that flood interiors with natural light. Security is high, with 255 CCTV cameras and on-site 24/7 staff. Spectrum hosts a broad activity program through Spectrum Life, including Coding Club, Art Club, Debate, and Music, and maintains partnerships with Bilim Orda, UNESCO, ECIS, and the London College of Music Examinations. Alumni join SIS World Network.

Buirat St 11, 010000, Astana 020000, Kazakhstan

The Essentials

Spectrum International School - Astana has 505 pupils, typical class sizes of 20.

Location

Koshkarbayev Avenue, 11, Astana, Kazakhstan.

Stages

Cambridge Primary Grades 0-5; Lower Secondary Grades 6-8; Cambridge IGCSE Grades 9-10; AS/A Level Grades 11-12.

Type

International school.

Additional learning support

EAL Department; Student support services.

Country affiliation

Kazakhstan
Diving Deeper

Governance and Ownership

Spectrum International School operates under the Bilim Orda International Social Foundation, its sole founder.
Fees

Annual tuition at Spectrum International School - Astana ranges from KZT 6,470,000 to KZT 9,400,000 for 2026/27.

Application and Admission Fees
Spectrum International School charges a one-time registration and entrance fee of KZT 100,000–1,000,000 depending on the admissions category and programme level.

Tuition Fees (2025/2026 Academic Year)

Grade 0: KZT 6,470,000 per year, approximately KZT 2,156,667 per term
Grades 1–5 (Cambridge Primary): KZT 8,470,000 per year, approximately KZT 2,823,333 per term
Grades 6–8 (Cambridge Lower Secondary): KZT 8,925,000 per year, approximately KZT 2,975,000 per term
Grades 9–10 (IGCSE): KZT 9,400,000 per year, approximately KZT 3,133,333 per term
Grades 11–12 (AS/A Level): KZT 9,400,000 per year, approximately KZT 3,133,333 per term

Billing Schedule and Payment Terms
Tuition fees are generally payable across the academic year in instalments. The school also offers several early payment discounts:

Up to 10% discount for full annual payment made before 31 March 2026
5% discount for full payment made before 30 June 2026
7–8% discounts for partial advance payments made before the stated deadlines

Boarding Fees
Spectrum International School operates as a day school and does not offer boarding accommodation.

Other Costs and Fees
Tuition includes the academic programme, textbooks, one set of school uniforms, and sports uniforms. Meals are charged separately at KZT 757,000 per year and include breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack. Additional costs may apply for extracurricular activities, transport, and optional school trips.

Refund Information
The school does not publicly provide a detailed refund policy. Registration and entrance fees are generally non-refundable.

Fee Payment Options
Payments are accepted in KZT according to the school’s billing schedule. The school provides payment plans and advance payment discount options.
Academics

Spectrum International School - Astana teaches Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum

Cambridge International Curriculum with a dual diploma option. Cambridge Primary Grades 0-5, Lower Secondary Grades 6-8, Cambridge IGCSE Grades 9-10, Advanced AS/A Level Grades 11-12. The curriculum is adapted to Spectrum's context and follows Cambridge Global Education Standards. The school offers a full 13-year education and provides a Testing Center for international exams to support entry to leading universities.

Higher Education Progression

Graduates gain admission to recognized universities around the world. Cambridge qualifications prepare learners for university and beyond. Spectrum offers a dual diploma programme (A-level Diploma and National Diploma) and aligns with CAIE standards to support progression to higher education.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school has a School Counselor who focuses on enhancing students' social-emotional skills, resilience, and coping mechanisms. Through workshops, group sessions, and individual support, they assist students in stress management, self-esteem building, effective communication, problem-solving, and decision-making.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school has an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program that aids students in language acquisition.

Mental Wellbeing

The school has Wellbeing Officers (two) who promote students' mental health and provide individual counseling. They conduct group workshops on stress management, resilience building, and conflict resolution, and collaborate with teachers and parents to support students' social-emotional growth and academic achievement.

Safeguarding

The school has safeguarding measures including a comprehensive safeguarding policy, staff background checks and regular training in child protection and safeguarding. There are designated safeguarding leads, open lines of communication with parents, and an anti-bullying procedure with reporting channels and prompt investigations; counseling and conflict resolution are available to affected students.
Parent Experience

History

NurOrda International School opened in 2008. In 2011 it gained permanent membership in the Council of International Schools and accreditation as a Cambridge International Examination Centre. In 2014 the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan granted it international school status (decree No. 259, March 26). In 2015 it earned premium membership with the European Council of International Schools, and in 2017 it was renamed Spectrum International School with CIS accreditation and NEASC accreditation. Since 2018 it has been an official SAT testing center, and in 2023-2024 Spectrum International School began the academic year in a new, modern building.

Community

Unity Day celebrates diversity with a culture fair, student performances, and community displays that promote unity and multiculturalism. Nauryz is celebrated with Kazakh music and dance, cultural displays, cuisine, and traditional attire to foster cultural awareness. Public holidays are observed with school events and lessons, including Teacher's Day, Constitution Day, Republic Day, Independence Day, New Year, Gratitude Day, International Women's Day, Defender of the Fatherland Day, and graduation activities. Co-curricular life includes World Scholars Cup and Owlypia competitions, Robotics Club, sports such as badminton and volleyball, theatre performances, and a student council that leads events and represents student interests.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The school has a Parent Teacher Association and aims to maintain open lines of communication with it.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

Located in a new residential area, Spectrum International School Astana occupies a modern building described as reliable and safe, five minutes from the Khazret Sultan Mosque. The campus hosts science laboratories and provides spaces for sports and stage performances. Skylights in the hallways bring natural light to the building, creating a welcoming learning environment. The campus is covered by 255 CCTV cameras and access is restricted to authorized personnel, with 24/7 security on site. The building was constructed in line with safety regulations and fire safety measures.

Sports Facilities

The campus supports a sports program as part of the learning experience. Great sports victories are highlighted as part of Spectrum's campus life. A venue for stage performances is available on campus, supporting arts alongside athletics. Safety and security measures on campus apply to athletic facilities and activities.

Academic Facilities

The Cambridge pathway is used at Spectrum International School, offering A-level Diploma and National Diploma. The school provides a 13-year education aligned with Cambridge and CAIE Global Education Standards. Cambridge qualifications are adaptable to local context and culture, encouraging curiosity and independent learning. Graduates receive a general education certificate, a certificate with distinction, or the Altyn Belgi certificate. Cambridge qualifications are internationally recognised by universities.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Clubs are available as part of Spectrum Life, and events are held on campus. Student support services are available to support wellbeing and personal development. A home-school partnership is in place to engage families in the learning process. The school operates a student council and student clubs to involve students in leadership and activities. Graduates participate in the SIS World network.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

Coding Club teaches programming languages and coding skills. Debate Club strengthens public speaking, critical thinking, and argumentation. Science Club engages students in hands-on experiments and exploration across scientific fields. Environmental Club raises awareness of environmental issues and promotes sustainability.

Arts & Creative

Art Club provides a space to express creativity through painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media. Music Club promotes musical talents with opportunities to learn instruments, join bands or orchestras, and receive vocal training. Drama Club encourages students to develop acting skills, stage presence, and participate in performances. London College of Music Examinations offers internationally recognized music exams through a partnership with the London College of Music.

Cultural & Language

Bilim Orda International Foundation partners Spectrum to develop multilingual, educated students who uphold national values and thrive in a global context. Students are record-breakers in medals won at national and international competitions and Olympiads. UNESCO partnership enables students to participate in exchange programmes, cultural festivals, and scientific conferences, while teachers participate in professional training. These partnerships promote global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding.

Social & Hobbies

Sports Club offers opportunities to participate in various sports and develop athletic skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Art Club, Music Club, and Drama Club provide creative outlets and opportunities to collaborate with peers. Coding Club and Debate Club support intellectual hobbies and peer interaction.

Community & Service

The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is offered as part of Spectrum's Individual Development Program, focusing on physical recreation, skills, volunteer service, and adventurous journeys. Mentors guide students in setting goals, building resilience, and developing valuable life skills. The program fosters community contribution and leadership through service and challenges.

Leadership & Professional

The Student Council represents student interests, organizes events, and fosters school-wide community. Students elected to the council collaborate with faculty to voice concerns and plan activities. The Duke of Edinburgh Award develops leadership and teamwork. Partnerships with ECIS and London College of Music Examinations provide opportunities for professional development through conferences, exchanges, and music certification.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Sports Club promotes physical activity, teamwork, and healthy competition. The school supports wellbeing through events and Spectrum life activities. The Duke of Edinburgh Award includes physical recreation and adventurous journeys that build resilience and well-being.
Languages

Language Provision

English language support is provided through the EAL Department. English as an additional language (EAL) is English language intervention for students whose level of English is low and who require specialized courses to develop English language proficiency. It takes place during the mainstream English lessons with a specialised EAL teacher and in reduced groups of the same level. The intervention can last from one term only to four terms depending on the starting level and improvement of the student. The aim is that the student progresses rapidly so they can join their peers for English as soon as they are ready.
Reputation

Accreditations

CIS accreditation since 2011; NEASC accreditation since 2017; CAIE exams administered on campus
Admissions

Admissions

1. Leave a request. A consultation or personal school tour can be arranged, and a Spectrum manager will contact the family to discuss admission options and schedule the visit. The Admissions office is located at Koshkarbayev Avenue, 11, Astana, and operates from 08:10 to 16:30. 2. Application for admissions. Submit a copy of the child's state ID and the most recent school report. The online application can be started via the Apply Now option, and a downloadable document lists the enrollment documents for the 2025-2026 academic year. 3. Registration for Test and Interview. The CAT4 assessment evaluates cognitive abilities (verbal, non-verbal, quantitative, and spatial) and indirectly determines English proficiency, and the interview with the Academic Vice Principal is conducted in English. Registration for the entrance assessment is via an online form. 4. Success. Successful candidates will be required to provide the necessary documents and sign an enrollment agreement.

Scholarships

Stages of Educational Grant Awarding: 1) Application & Selection. Applicants submit an online application with a portfolio (assessment results, transcripts, and other academic achievements); a selection committee shortlists candidates for the next stage. Deadline: February 28, 2026. 2) Interviews & Testing. Candidates undergo interviews and testing to assess knowledge and personal qualities. Date: April 2026. 3) Final Results. Applicants are informed about the selection results and grant awards. Date: April 2026. 4) Agreement Signing. Signing of the educational service agreement with the candidate's legal representative. Date: May 2026. Scholarships: Spectrum provides scholarship funding for pupils entering Grade 6, which covers the entire period of schooling. For students in grades 10, 11 and 12, scholarships are available for one academic year. Academic Performance Requirements: 1) Academic Excellence: Minimum average GPA of 4.5 and exemplary behavior. 2) Assessment Results and Transcripts: Evidence of academic achievements. 3) Certificates: Participation in Olympiads and competitions. 4) Additional Achievements: Notable accomplishments outside academic performance. 5) Test Results (if available): IGCSE, AS Level, SAT Subject, SAT Reasoning, or International Olympiad results. List of Required Documents for Grant Application: 1) Scanned copy of the candidate's ID card, passport, or birth certificate. 2) Scanned copy of official school transcripts for the last 3 academic years. 3) Scanned copy of IGCSE or AS Level certificates (if available). 4) IELTS TRF number (if available). 5) Essay template. 6) Email addresses of two referees, one of whom must represent the current educational institution.
School Events
The school has not added events