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British International School Belgrade

Serbia, Belgrade

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees Fees not listed
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 473
Type Co-educational
Opened 1997
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels
Taught languages French, German, Serbian, Spanish, Mandarin
Typical class size 16
Strengths Sport, Languages, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction

British International School Belgrade offers the British curriculum from ages 3 to 18 across four Belgrade campuses: two Primary and two Secondary. The Primary works with Cambridge Primary and the English National Curriculum, while Secondary uses Cambridge schemes, with nine IGCSEs at Key Stage 4 and up to four A levels at Key Stage 5. Students learn English with EAL support and study Modern Foreign Languages (French, German and Serbian) in Key Stage 2. The curriculum emphasises knowledge and vocabulary, coherence, accessibility and cross-curricular learning, with enrichment through visits and residential trips. The school is registered with the UK Department for Education and the Serbian Ministry of Education and is a regular member of ECIS and CIS. Facilities include interactive whiteboards, computer suites, in-class laptops on each campus, and sports facilities including a sports dome. A distinctive programme is the Duke of Edinburgh International Award; clubs include Debate, Chess and Computer Programming.

Primary School Campus: Župana Vlastimira 8, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia; Lower Secondary Campus: Palackova 11, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia; Upper Secondary (main contact) Campus: Neznanog Junaka 36, Dedinje, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia

The Essentials

British International School Belgrade has 473 pupils, typical class sizes of 16, instruction in English.

Location

Belgrade, Serbia. Primary Campus is at Zupana Vlastimira 8, 11040 Belgrade; Lower Secondary Campus is at Palackova 11, 11040 Belgrade; Upper Secondary Campus is at Neznanog Junaka 36, 11040 Belgrade (Dedinje).

Stages

Primary; Lower Secondary; Upper Secondary.

Type

International school.

Pupil Nationality Mix

The BIS serves a highly international student body. Students come from diplomatic families in Serbia, international families, and local Serbian families; nationalities represented include Algeria, Angola, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Egypt, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Ghana, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Korea, Lithuania, Malaysia, Montenegro, Myanmar, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Pakistan, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Zimbabwe.

Additional learning support

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision; an Individual Learning Programme is available; SEND Coordinator Jelena Ilić Milenković.

Country affiliation

Affiliations with the United Kingdom and Serbia. Recognised by the British Department for Education and the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development of Serbia; regular member of ECIS and CIS.

School day structure

Secondary School Day starts at 08:30; eight 40-minute lessons per day; lateness may result in detention per BIS policy.

Bus service

School buses operate using minibuses that cover different areas of Belgrade, providing a safe and efficient transport service.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement

Uniforms consist of navy blue T-shirts or long-sleeve polo shirts with the BIS crest and a yellow PE shirt. Uniforms are mandatory during lessons including PE and ECA clubs; Infant Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 wear uniforms, while Secondary students have a casual dress code. The crest appears on the front of the uniform and the BIS motto MERET QUI LABORAT is embroidered on the back.

Food Options

Catering provides nutritious meals using organic and seasonal foods. Menus are based on balanced three-course meals with accommodation for dietary or religious requirements, and vegetarian meals are available. Secondary students have access to the school canteen; both Lower and Upper Secondary Campuses have a canteen.

Governance and Ownership

Governing body is an advisory board. Members include Stefan Slijepčević (safeguarding) and Sonja Dragošan (Health and Safety).
Fees
Overview

- The school does not publish a full, itemised public fee schedule broken down by year group and term for the 2026/27 academic year; available public listings instead report a standard annual day-student tuition range.

Application and registration fees

- No definitive, publicly available single-figure application or one‑time registration fee is published for 2026/27 or 2025/26; a detailed one-off application/enrolment fee amount could not be located in publicly accessible materials.

Tuition fees (per year / per term)

- Published, itemised tuition amounts by individual year group or per term are not available from the school in publicly accessible material for 2026/27 (or 2025/26).
- Public listings that summarise the school's tuition report an annual day-student tuition range of approximately EUR 5,000 to EUR 10,900. This range represents annual tuition for day students rather than a term-by-term or year‑group breakdown.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- A specific billing schedule (for example: number of instalments, term dates for invoicing, deadlines, late‑payment penalties) and formal payment terms are not published in the school's publicly available materials for 2026/27. No authoritative public statement of whether fees are charged per term, per semester, or annually could be located.

Boarding fees

- The school operates as a day school and does not publish boarding provision or boarding fees; publicly available records list weekly and full boarding as not applicable (zero). Boarding fees are therefore not applicable.

Other costs and typical additional charges

- Transport and meal charges are reported by public listings as separate additional costs in local summaries: examples listed include transport at around EUR 8 per day and food at around EUR 4 per day in the available public summary. These amounts are presented as typical ancillary daily charges in third‑party listings rather than an official school itemised fee schedule.
- No authoritative, itemised public listing for compulsory uniform costs, activity fees, exam fees, deposits, or capital/development levies for 2026/27 was found in the school's publicly available materials.

Refunds, deposits and withdrawal terms

- No publicly available, detailed refund policy, deposit amounts, or formal withdrawal notice periods for the 2026/27 academic year were located in the school's publicly accessible materials. Specifics on refundable or non‑refundable deposits and refund percentages are therefore not available in public sources.

Fee payment options (methods accepted)

- A definitive list of accepted payment methods (for example: bank transfer, credit card, standing order, online payment portal) for 2026/27 is not published in the school's publicly accessible materials. No public confirmation of which payment channels are accepted could be located.

Summary statement about available figures

- A publicly accessible, detailed fee schedule by year group and term for 2026/27 (or for 2025/26) is not published. The only concrete numeric guidance found in public listings is an annual day‑student tuition range of approximately EUR 5,000 to EUR 10,900; boarding is not applicable. Ancillary daily charges for transport and meals are reported in some third‑party summaries. For all other requested line‑items (per‑year and per‑term tuition by year group, explicit application fee amount, formal billing schedule, refund percentages and formal payment method list), no authoritative public figures were located in materials available for the 2026/27 or 2025/26 academic years.

(End of fee overview)
Academics

British International School Belgrade teaches British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum

The school provides a broad and stimulating curriculum aligned with the English National Curriculum in England for primary, with adaptations for its international context. English language development is supported through English as an Additional Language (EAL) for pupils who need it, and Modern Foreign Languages (French, German and Serbian) are taught in Key Stage 2. In secondary, Cambridge schemes of work are used in core subjects at Key Stage 3, with other subjects blending the English National Curriculum with additional material. At Key Stage 4, pupils study nine IGCSEs, timetabled as four 40‑minute lessons per subject; at Key Stage 5, pupils may take up to four A levels. The curriculum design rests on six core principles: knowledge and vocabulary richness, sequencing and coherence, flexibility, evidence‑based practice, accessibility and diversity, with a strong PSHEE component. Enrichment and extension are provided through curricular and cross‑curricular activities, educational visits and residential trips.

Exam Results

IGCSE and A Level results show high attainment. Pupils are successful in securing places at selective universities nationally and internationally. Regular assessments monitor progress and attainment across the curriculum.

Higher Education Progression

Careers education is well established and is actively integrated with form tutors and subject teachers. Careers advice emphasises goal‑setting and employability skills. Pupils are well supported in the university application process for institutions in Serbia, the UK and a wide range of international destinations.

Gifted and Talented

Differentiation of the curriculum for more able learners is provided. The school differentiates the curriculum in and outside lessons to challenge these pupils. Enrichment and extension are provided through a programme of curricular and cross‑curricular activities, including visits and residential trips.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Education at BIS for students aged three to eighteen is based on the British curriculum and programme, and on the development of all aspects of the student's intellectual, social, emotional, physical and spiritual identity. BIS aims to develop internationally minded, independent, confident and creative learners who will be able to contribute positively to future society.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school has identified 32 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Jelena Ilić Milenković serves as the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo). The SENCo coordinates SEND support, and staff receive safeguarding and SEN-related training to support those students.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English is the language of instruction at BIS (except the Modern Foreign Languages programme). Students with English as an Additional Language (EAL) are supported in school; where outside tutoring is not feasible, BIS provides additional EAL support for those identified.

Mental Wellbeing

The school runs the Wellbeing Ambassadors Project, a peer-to-peer wellbeing initiative that trains students to support their peers and lead wellbeing campaigns. Wellbeing Ambassadors develop communication and leadership skills while helping to promote mental health within the community.

Safeguarding

The school has a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and two Assistant Designated Safeguarding Leads (ADSLs), supported by safeguarding officers to ensure coverage. The safeguarding team undergoes regular training and staff training on safeguarding and online safety, including ongoing two-year refreshers and advanced certifications. The policy aligns with UK guidance and local Serbian procedures and includes clear roles, responsibilities and reporting pathways. The DSL prepares termly and annual safeguarding reports, and contact details for safeguarding are published for staff, students and families.
Parent Experience

History

The BIS began as the International High School, Belgrade, co-founded in 1997 by Aleksandra Keserovic and Dr Jonathan Rider. It was the first international secondary school in Serbia based on the English language, serving corps diplomatique families, foreign business families and local students seeking English-language education for university admission. In 2003 the school moved to a new site, opened a Primary School and renamed itself the British International School to reflect its emphasis and the quality of education provided. The BIS has since operated across multiple campuses and is today spread across four campuses—two primary and two secondary.

Community

The BIS emphasizes close communication with parents/guardians and provides information about premises, achievements and events. Parents/guardians are encouraged to participate in the Parent, Teacher, Friends Association (PTF), which organises fundraising and charity events and works with the Principal on school improvement. The school has Primary and Secondary Student Councils whose members represent the student voice and help organise charity events such as the annual BIS Charity Bazaar, as well as study tours and social events.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The Parent, Teacher, Friends Association (PTF) is a BIS volunteer group that involves parents/guardians in the life of the school. The PTF organises fundraising and charity events and, with the teachers and the Principal, discusses ideas for school improvement. The association may be involved in addressing student academic and disciplinary issues if necessary. Parents are encouraged to participate actively in PTF activities. The PTF collaborates with staff to support the school's aims and to enhance the overall BIS community.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

The British International School Belgrade operates across multiple campuses in Belgrade. Primary School Campus is at 8 Zupana Vlastimira Street; Lower Secondary School Campus is at 11 Palackova Street; Upper Secondary School Campus is at 36 Neznanog Junaka Street. The school provides state-of-the-art teaching resources, including interactive whiteboards in every classroom and computer suites with devices for students. In the Primary School, sets of laptops are provided for in-class use. The campuses feature spacious playgrounds with climbing frames, swings, seesaws, pergolas and benches, and a sports dome is used for PE. Play spaces and equipment are adapted for the students' ages on each campus.

Sports Facilities

The BIS offers a wide variety of sports such as swimming, running, athletics, karate, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, yoga and capoeira. The Primary School has an annual Sports Day and students participate in events. We have competitions against other international schools as well as inter-class competitions. Our ECA clubs within school time are completely free of charge and provide two hours of sports activities per week; after-school clubs come at a minimum extra cost per lesson.

Academic Facilities

The school provides state-of-the-art equipment to students. Every classroom has an interactive whiteboard. A computer suite with devices is available on each campus, and Primary School has sets of laptops for in-class use. The equipment and spaces support digital learning across the curriculum.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Extra curricular activities include Creative Arts, Sports, Outdoor Activities and Awards. The Duke Of Edinburgh International Award is offered. ECA clubs during school time are completely free of charge and provide two hours of activities per week; after-school clubs carry a minimum extra cost per lesson.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

Debate club, Film Animation, Photography, Chess, and Computer Programming are among BIS Belgrade's secondary extra-curricular offerings. Primary ECAs include Pottery, Jumping Clay, Capoeira, Cricket, Volleyball, Football, Ballet, Film Animation, and Foreign Language clubs (French, Spanish, German, Greek, Chinese). Secondary ECAs also include Drama, Film Making, Photography, Debate, Chess, Computer Programming, Choir and School Band, plus the Duke of Edinburgh club. BIS participates in the Archimedes Maths competition and awards Mathletics certificates (Gold, Silver and Bronze), with certificates issued at the end of each half-term.

Arts & Creative

Creative Arts is a central focus, with Primary ECAs including Pottery, Jumping Clay, Capoeira, Cricket, Volleyball, Football, Ballet, Film Animation, and Foreign Language clubs (French, Spanish, German, Greek, Chinese). Additional foreign language lessons can be arranged after school based on student interest. Secondary ECAs include Duke of Edinburgh club, Film Animation, Film Making, Photography, Debate, Computer Programming, Chess, Drama, Choir and School Band. All Secondary extracurricular activities are free of charge except for Duke of Edinburgh expeditions.

Cultural & Language

Foreign language clubs include French, Spanish, German, Greek and Chinese. Additional foreign language lessons can be organized after school based on BIS students' and parents' interest.

Social & Hobbies

Parents/guardians participate in the Parent, Teacher, Friends Association (PTF), which organizes fundraising and charity events. Primary and Secondary Student Councils elect class representatives and ensure student voice is heard, with presidents and members representing the student body. The Student Councils help in organising charity events such as the BIS Charity Bazaar and in planning the annual study tour and social events like student parties.

Community & Service

Community service is supported through BIS charity activities; The PTF coordinates fundraising and charity events, and the Student Councils organise charity events such as the BIS Charity Bazaar and contribute to the annual study tour, volunteering initiatives, and other service-oriented activities.

Leadership & Professional

The Duke Of Edinburgh International Award is available to BIS students and covers Service, Adventurous Journey, Skills and Physical Recreation at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. BIS is a participant in the Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award (iDEA), which aims to develop digital, enterprise and employability skills.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Pastoral care is a central feature, with staff focused on wellbeing, health and safety and safeguarding, fostering a safe and supportive atmosphere. The school emphasizes open communication with parents, including blogs and a responsive school office. BIS offers a wide range of sports, including swimming, running, athletics, karate, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, yoga and capoeira, with the Primary School hosting an annual Sports Day. Secondary ECAs are free within the school day (two hours of sport per week), while after-school clubs may incur a minimal cost, and Duke of Edinburgh expeditions have separate charges.
Languages

Language Provision

The language of instruction is English. English as an Additional Language (EAL) lessons are provided for pupils who do not have a secure use of spoken and written English. Modern Foreign Languages (French, German and Serbian) are taught to children in Key Stage 2, provided they do not require EAL lessons. The curriculum is based on the English National Curriculum with adaptations for an international pupil body.
Reputation

Awards

BSO accreditation awarded in 2025.

Accreditations

The school is recognised by the British Department for Education and by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development of the Republic of Serbia; it is a regular member of ECIS and CIS. It operates as an operator for the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.
Admissions

Admissions

Fluency in English is emphasized. The official language of BIS Belgrade is English, and English is the language of instruction. The vast majority of communications are in English or Serbian, and English immersion is supported with English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision when needed. 1. Information pack will be sent to parents. Parents and child may wish to tour the school. The information pack explains BIS's admissions process and school environment. Tours enable prospective families to observe students at work and to meet the Head of Primary/Secondary and Head of School to experience BIS's ethos. 2. Optional trial day is available. The trial day offers the student a chance to experience BIS's routines and teaching style before a formal decision is made. It helps BIS assess how well the student fits with BIS's environment. The option is part of the initial application process. 3. Application form – Appendix 1. The application form is completed and sent to BIS. 4. References are sent to the current school. The application is in progress at this stage and students are not yet accepted. 5. References and reports are reviewed by a senior member of staff. The school decides whether to progress the application or halt it. If halted at this stage, the student may apply again in one term. 6. Written or online assessments. The GL assessment programme is used. Secondary pupils sit Maths and English tests; Primary pupils sit CAT4 assessments. The tests are usually sent to the current school and carried out under supervision. 7. Parent and Student Interview. Parents and students may be invited to attend a further meeting, which may discuss how BIS can best support the child and may involve a short student interview. 8. Meeting with the AEND coordinator. The Additional Educational Needs Coordinator will discuss the student's needs and plan support as needed. 9. Application assessment. A senior member of staff reviews the application; if successful, a start date is agreed and the student joins BIS; if not successful, the application is rejected. 10. AEND-related processes. If necessary, the AEND coordinator may contact the previous school to obtain information; additional assessments may be conducted; information will be shared with relevant staff. If external support is required, the costs may be charged to the parent. 11. ESL support. The English as a Second Language (ESL) programme is provided free of charge to students whose English proficiency needs bringing up to the required standard. 12. Transition planning. Following discussion with parents, it may be necessary to write an individual transition plan to determine how to meet the child's needs and what staff training may be required.
School Events
The school has not added events