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Brilliant Stars International School

Slovakia, Bratislava

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees €300 - 11,890
Ages 2 - 14 years
Pupil numbers 200
Type Co-educational
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Montessori Curriculum
Taught languages Slovak, German, Spanish, English
Typical class size 14
Strengths STEM, Outdoor Education, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Preschool, Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle School, Secondary School
Introduction

Brilliant Stars International School offers a Cambridge-based curriculum from age 2 to 14 in Bratislava, with a Montessori-inspired approach in the early years. Kindergarten blends hands-on learning with the British Jolly Phonics programme and a Character Building Programme, while English is the language of instruction; Slovak lessons are available for Slovak students and expats. The Primary School combines the Cambridge International Curriculum with Montessori pedagogy, developing literacy, numeracy, science, digital literacy and programming, alongside global studies and RE. The Secondary School follows the Cambridge International Curriculum for Lower Secondary, with subjects including English, Maths, Science, German, Slovak, Music, Arts, History, Geography, and Computer Science. The campus features bright classrooms, a 4500+ book library, a Science Laboratory, a Music Room, a Pottery Atelier, a Ballet Studio, a large indoor gym, and rooftop classroom. The school also runs an Online School and a Summer Programme and emphasizes community service and Erasmus collaborations.

The Essentials

Brilliant Stars International School has 200 pupils, typical class sizes of 14, instruction in English.

Location
The school is in Bratislava, Slovakia. It is located at Vavilovova 18, 851 01 in Petržalka.

Stages
Kindergarten, Primary School, Secondary School, Online School, and Summer Programme.

Type
The school is an international school.

Additional learning support
In-house special educator and speech and language therapist.

School day structure
Kindergarten: 8:30–15:30; School: 8:15–15:00; Full-day care: 8:00–17:00; Morning & After-school club available daily.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
The school is a day school. Full-day care is available from 8:00 to 17:00. The Kindergarten day runs from 8:30 to 15:30 and the School day runs from 8:15 to 15:00.

Food Options
Food is prepared in-house in a kitchen that bakes its own bread. Meals are cooked from scratch and menus are planned weekly with accommodation for dietary requirements. Food is sourced from local and organic producers where possible, and the school operates an edible garden; international days showcase cuisines from different cultures.

Governance and Ownership
The school is led by a director within an in-house management and administration team, with an advisory board. It operates as a non-profit organization.
Fees

Annual tuition at Brilliant Stars International School ranges from EUR 300 to EUR 11,890 for 2026/27.

Application / Registration fee

- Registration fee: EUR 300.

Tuition fees (per term and annual) — academic year 2025/26

- Kindergarten (per term): Term 1 (Sept–Dec) EUR 3,512; Term 2 (Jan–Mar) EUR 2,634; Term 3 (Apr–June) EUR 2,634. Annual fee: EUR 8,780.

- Year 2 (per term): Term 1 EUR 3,700; Term 2 EUR 2,775; Term 3 EUR 2,775. Annual fee: EUR 9,250.

- Year 3 (per term): Term 1 EUR 3,848; Term 2 EUR 2,886; Term 3 EUR 2,886. Annual fee: EUR 9,620.

- Year 4 (per term): Term 1 EUR 3,980; Term 2 EUR 2,985; Term 3 EUR 2,985. Annual fee: EUR 9,950.

- Year 5 (per term): Term 1 EUR 4,116; Term 2 EUR 3,087; Term 3 EUR 3,087. Annual fee: EUR 10,290.

- Year 6 (per term): Term 1 EUR 4,264; Term 2 EUR 3,198; Term 3 EUR 3,198. Annual fee: EUR 10,660.

- Year 7 (per term): Term 1 EUR 4,400; Term 2 EUR 3,300; Term 3 EUR 3,300. Annual fee: EUR 11,000.

- Year 8 (per term): Term 1 EUR 4,540; Term 2 EUR 3,405; Term 3 EUR 3,405. Annual fee: EUR 11,350.

- Year 9 (per term): Term 1 EUR 4,756; Term 2 EUR 3,567; Term 3 EUR 3,567. Annual fee: EUR 11,890.

What the tuition covers and what it does not cover

- Fees include: tuition, teaching materials and learning supplies (materials, notebooks, textbooks, laptops for in-school use), many in-house extra-curricular activities, specialist teaching and learning support, day trips, and Cambridge examination fees.

- Fees do not include: school meals (lunch and snacks), individual instrumental lessons, some optional extra-curricular activities, and residential (overnight) trips. Meals are charged separately and are billed on the term invoice.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Billing schedule: tuition, meals and extra-curricular activities are invoiced for the whole term in advance (per-term invoicing aligned with the three school terms). Term dates for the 2025/26 year run roughly: Term 1 (early September–mid/late December), Term 2 (January–March), Term 3 (April–June).

- Payment terms: invoices for tuition, meals and activities must be paid in advance for the whole term and are to be paid by bank transfer. Meals cancelled before 7:45 a.m. on the day of the meal are deducted from the next meal invoice. There are no fee reductions for student absences.

Boarding fees

- The school operates as a day school with full-day care; no boarding or residential accommodation fees are published. Residential (overnight) trips are listed as optional and are charged separately when they occur.

Other costs and routine extras

- School meals: charged separately; the school runs its own kitchen and invoices meals per term. Cancellations before 7:45 a.m. are credited on the next invoice.

- Individual music/instrumental lessons: charged separately and not included in tuition. Payments for some activities are invoiced at the end of term.

- Optional extra-curricular activities and residential trips: charged separately.

- Uniform / dress code: there is a school dress code and the school references “Brilliant Stars t-shirts,” but no compulsory uniform fee or mandatory uniform price is published. Parents are expected to supply appropriate smart-casual clothing and PE kit as outlined in the dress code.

Refunds, cancellations and withdrawal policy

- Withdrawal notice: parents must notify the school in writing one term in advance to withdraw a child. Without written notice given one term in advance, tuition for the full term will be charged.

- Absence and refunds: there are no fee reductions for absences of any reason. Meal cancellations notified before 7:45 a.m. are deducted from the next meal invoice.

Discounts and scholarships

- Sibling discount: a 5% discount is applied for the third child enrolled (families with three or more children). Further sibling discounts are decided case-by-case. Scholarships for primary and secondary students are offered annually and are awarded and reviewed by the school's director.

Fee changes

- The school states fees increase by around 4% annually.

Accepted payment methods (published)

- Bank transfer is the published payment method for term invoices. No published information on accepting credit-card payment is listed in the school materials.
Academics

Brilliant Stars International School teaches Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Montessori Curriculum for students aged 2 to 14.

Curriculum
The Brilliant Stars international curriculum is Cambridge-based and taught entirely in English, preparing students to join Cambridge Assessment in over 160 countries. Kindergarten (ages 2½–6) blends Montessori-inspired hands-on learning with the British Jolly Phonics literacy programme and a Character Building Programme, emphasising concentration, perseverance, and cooperation. English is the language of instruction throughout the day, with mandatory Slovak lessons for Slovak students and expats can access Slovak language lessons. Primary School integrates the Cambridge International Curriculum with Montessori pedagogy and a Character Building programme, equipping students with strong English, reading, writing, maths, science, digital literacy and programming, global studies and RE. CAIE delivers the Cambridge Primary Curriculum for Key Stage 1 & 2, is part of the University of Cambridge, and is recognised by the Slovak Ministry of Education and by universities worldwide. Secondary School follows the Cambridge International Curriculum for Lower Secondary, with subjects including English, Maths, Science, German, Slovak, Music, Art, History, Geography, and Computer Science; Cambridge qualifications are recognised by universities worldwide; the school also offers an Online School and a Summer Programme.

Higher Education Progression
Cambridge international qualifications are recognised by universities worldwide. This recognition supports admission to higher education institutions around the world.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school centers on character development and social-emotional learning. Teachers receive in-house training in Character Education and mentoring to identify and nurture virtues in each student. The approach emphasizes developing a love of learning while fostering empathy, responsibility, and respectful global citizenship. A strong emphasis is placed on addressing aggression, bullying, and inappropriate language early to maintain a safe and supportive environment.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
In-house specialists support learners with diverse needs, including a Montessori expert, a special educator and a speech and language therapist, and an in-house psychologist. An education consultant is also available to advise on learning approaches. This team helps tailor support within general classes and school life.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English is the language of instruction throughout the day, with classes typically led by foreign teachers who are native English speakers. English is the first language at the school, and students are guided to achieve fluency in written and spoken English. Slovak language classes are taught by qualified Slovak teachers to meet ministry standards, and the school offers the option to study an additional foreign language.

Mental Wellbeing
The school supports mental wellbeing through its focus on social-emotional development and a caring learning environment. It emphasizes character development and provides opportunities for students to explore interests in a safe setting. An in-house psychologist and other specialists support wellbeing, and staff are trained to foster students' emotional and social growth.

Safeguarding
Safeguarding is supported by in-house specialists who monitor wellbeing and safety, including a Montessori expert, a special educator, a speech and language therapist, and a psychologist. Aggression, bullying, and inappropriate language are addressed early by trained staff to maintain a secure community.
Parent Experience

History
Brilliant Stars International School was founded by Venus Jahanpour. The school has 21 years of experience and hosts staff and students from more than 30 countries. It operates in Bratislava with programmes for Kindergarten, Primary School, Secondary School, Online School, and a Summer Programme. It is a non-profit organization and emphasizes intrinsic motivation and character education to develop globally minded citizens.

Community
Brilliant Stars has an international community with a diverse teaching team and staff from many countries. Our School Life content shows active wider engagement, including projects, conferences, and NGO events, focusing on environment, diversity, and social topics, as well as Erasmus projects and partnerships with Cambridge and UCL researchers. The school collaborates with Townshend International (CZ) and The School of the Nations (Macau), expanding its global network. Evening parent discussions and open parent spaces provide ongoing opportunities for parents to engage in the school's learning and community activities.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Parent involvement is supported through Parent Spaces, which include an open-door policy with the director and individual meetings with teachers. There are topic-specific meetings such as eco-committee and service projects, and discussions are held in evening parent spaces hosted by the director to explore education and parenting themes. Networking opportunities with like-minded parents and committees to bring about social change are offered, and all Brilliant Stars parents are notified of these spaces and are welcome to join. The structure encourages ongoing collaboration between parents and staff beyond formal admissions and classes.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Our bright, well-lit classrooms support self-directed and interactive learning. In classrooms, technology such as computers, tablets, and a SmartBoard is available for research and projects. The library houses 4500+ hand-selected books for reading and research. Specialised spaces include a Science Laboratory, a Music Room, and a Pottery Atelier. There are additional spaces such as a Ballet Studio and a large indoor gym, and the Dining Hall serves nutritious meals.

Sports Facilities
A brand-new multisport outdoor playground supports team and individual activities. An expansive indoor gym provides space for physical education and indoor sports. A Ballet Studio supports dance and movement activities. Outdoor facilities include the Certified Natural Garden for biodiversity and edible gardening, and a rooftop outdoor classroom provides learning outdoors as part of the school's facilities.

Academic Facilities
Classrooms are welcoming and well-lit, designed to support interactive, hands-on learning. Computers, Tablets, and a SmartBoard are available in the classrooms for research and projects. The library houses 4500+ hand-selected books and supports literacy and research activities. A Science Laboratory enables practical STEM learning. A Music Room and a Pottery Atelier provide dedicated spaces for arts and creative development.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Extra-curricular activities are led by teachers and external specialists and the offering evolves with student interests. Clubs include Chess, Math, Logic & Coding, Robotics, Poetry, Drama & Film, Yoga, Ballet, Tennis, Gymnastics, Team Sports, Ceramics, Upcycling, Home Economics, and Eco-club. These activities take place on-site, saving families time on transport. They foster diverse creativity, cognitive development, physical skills, teamwork, and environmental awareness.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Chess, Math, Logic & Coding, and Robotics are offered as on-site extracurricular activities led by teachers and external specialists. The clubs are evolving based on student interest, expanding as new topics gain popularity. These activities support critical thinking, problem solving, and STEM inquiry beyond the standard curriculum. They provide intellectual stimulation and opportunities to develop analytical skills and perseverance.

Arts & Creative
Poetry, Drama & Film, Ceramics, Upcycling, and Home Economics are offered on-site as creative clubs. They are led by teachers and external lecturers, enabling expressive writing, performance, crafts, and hands-on making. Movement and Dance are also part of the arts activities, promoting creativity through physical expression. The programme nurtures artistic talents and practical craftsmanship.

Cultural & Language
Brilliant Stars collaborates with international partners and participates in Erasmus projects, with connections to Townshend International (CZ) and The School of the Nations (Macau). The school engages in events focusing on environment and diversity to promote inclusion. Partnerships with Cambridge and UCL researchers support cross-cultural understanding and global awareness.

Social & Hobbies
On-site clubs include Yoga, Ballet, Tennis, Gymnastics, and Team Sports, offering physical activity, coordination, teamwork, and personal wellbeing. Movement & Dance activities also contribute to social and creative development. Morning and after-school clubs are available daily to support families' schedules.

Community & Service
Students and parents participate in community service, including planting around the school, charity projects, and events focused on the environment and diversity. The school engages with local governments and organizations, supports environmental action planning with businesses, and participates in international NGO events to connect learning with real-world impact.

Leadership & Professional
Service learning and community projects cultivate leadership skills. Students participate in conferences, NGO events, and Erasmus projects in collaboration with universities, developing teamwork, communication, and professional competencies. Partnerships with Cambridge and other institutions provide opportunities for further leadership development and cross-border collaboration.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Yoga, Ballet, Tennis, Gymnastics, and Team Sports support physical fitness and wellbeing. Movement and Dance are integrated into on-site activities to promote health, coordination, and balance. The school also offers Daily Morning & After-school clubs to encourage healthy routines and safe, active lifestyles.
Languages

Language Provision
English is the language of instruction across the curriculum, with Full Day English in Kindergarten and All-day English in Primary and Secondary. English fluency is the aim by graduation. Slovak is taught as a mandatory subject for Slovak-speaking learners to meet the Slovak Ministry of Education standards, and expats can access Slovak language lessons. German is offered as a second language in the Secondary School.

Bilingual Teaching
English is the language of instruction across the curriculum. Slovak language lessons are mandatory for Slovak students to meet the Slovak Ministry of Education requirements, and expats can access Slovak language lessons. An optional second language is offered, with German provided as a second language in the Secondary School.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Applicant Admissions Enquiry: A short admissions form is required to receive the necessary information. Applications are processed on an ongoing basis throughout the year. Early application is strongly encouraged in order to guarantee space.

2. Visit and Knowledge Check: Prospective families are invited for a visit to the school to meet the admissions staff and discuss the curriculum and life at Brilliant Stars. All prospective students visit with their parents to take part in a friendly informal knowledge check. For international students, an online call is scheduled with a follow-up visit upon arrival. For School Only, parents/guardians of all school applicants provide current school records including transcripts and reports from the previous year, if applicable, and any psychological evaluations.

3. Admissions Decision: Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis. The admissions team informs families as soon as a decision is reached. Families may receive updates as decisions are finalized. Decisions are communicated directly by the admissions team.

Scholarships
Every year, a number of scholarships are offered for Brilliant Stars primary and secondary school students. Scholarships are awarded to students and families who demonstrate academic and character excellence. Scholarships are awarded and reviewed annually by our director.
School Events
The school has not added events
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