A Small School in a Big City
Over the last 15 years, Moscow has grown into a bustling, lively metropolis. It attracts investment from all over the globe, drawn by the ever increasing commercial and business opportunities. In this sea of turmoil and constant change, families need a focus of stability and calm. For many families the British International School, Moscow (BISM) has provided this place for their children.
The school has existed for the past 15 years and has developed and grown through the changes that have engulfed Moscow. It has never lost sight of its purpose: to protect, nurture, provide growth and opportunity for personal development and deliver a quality of education that is second to none and where every child matters.
To really appreciate and understand how BISM works it is important to be aware of the organization’s structure. Large schools can prove impersonal and threatening to children, and if combined with a move to a new country can lead to problems such as homesickness, stress, fear, and anxiety. In contrast, BISM is made up of seven small, welcoming schools spread across the north, centre, and south of the city. These small schools help children to settle quickly by introducing new arrivals into a friendly, diverse but manageable community. Children quickly relax, feel secure, make new friends, and start to learn and grow.
Each school has developed its own character and community over the years, but this does not mean that each school is separate, nor does it mean that the educational quality differs among the schools. All the schools follow the English National Curriculum, adapted and enhanced to meet the needs of an ever changing and demanding international community. This gold standard ensures that the curriculum coverage is broad and challenging. In addition, the oldest children follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for university entrance and have once again achieved a 100% pass rate in their International Baccalaureate Diploma Examinations last academic year.
Obviously a school relies on dedicated, committed, well-qualified, and experienced teachers. Teachers are the life blood of a good school, providing students with stimulation and challenge while ensuring that children meet and exceed their own personal targets. The teachers at BISM come from the broad range of English-speaking countries across the globe, with the majority made up of UK citizens. They come to Moscow to experience the sights and sounds of this vibrant and dynamic city and bring with them a surplus of energy, wonder, and excitement. This enthusiasm is evident in the classroom and around the schools, and is transferred to the children. The teachers soon become aware that they are not just joining a school, but a thriving community made up of all the schools, the parents, and the children.
Clearly a school is for children. It should match their requirements and needs. So, what kinds of children attend BISM?
Well, the children at the schools are polite, well-mannered, approachable, and hospitable. You can see that they love their school, have a close bond with their classmates, and display a fondness and loyalty to their teachers. They enjoy being at school and are eager to study and achieve. A happy child is a productive child. Children that enjoy school succeed.
For parents and families considering a move to Moscow, the knowledge that such a school exists can give them the confidence to take the plunge.
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