British International School of Houston (BIS Houston) ranks as one of the premier school options in Texas that combines globally recognized education with a diverse, rigorous academic curriculum. BIS Houston is a member of the world-renowned Nord Anglia Education family of schools, allowing students to be in an environment that is literally a combination of academically rigorous with an emphasis on the holistic development of the whole child. This article will explore the various ways in which the British International School of Houston stands out as an excellent option for families seeking an international education option in the Houston area, such as their curriculum, programs that integrate engaging in the community, and who should apply.
What Makes the British International School of Houston Unique in Global Education?
An Overview of the British International School Houston
The British International School of Houston (BIS) is located in Katy, Texas. BIS serves students from all backgrounds and, as an early childhood to middle school education institution, it aims to foster a student-centered environment enabling students to develop their passion and talents. This focus on holistic education is also represented in its innovative campus and surrounding facilities, all purposely designed for students’ learning and development. BIS provides curriculum content to facilitate the needs of the international student and to prepare students to live and work in a perfectly globalized world. These students will come to understand and grow foundational values of having empathy for oneself, having empathy for others, respecting one another, and understanding resilience and recovery from adversity.
Principle Attributes of the Offered Curriculum
BIS Houston offers a robust curriculum using the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework with students being able to take part in a great education that is recognized globally. In addition to the IB framework the curriculum at BIS encompasses the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). These programs will enable students to learn not only needed content knowledge but to also develop critical and independent thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for success in a fast-paced and global society. All students will be able to collaborate and communicate which is also important preparation for future study and their careers.
Initiatives for Community Engagement and Global Education
At BIS Houston our commitment to global education extends beyond the walls of the classroom. Local community engagement and global citizenship initiatives are at the heart of our school actions. Students pursue locally actioned service-learning projects through the support of a local organization (focusing on out of school time activities) and they are encouraged to make a functional positive difference in society. In addition, we actively provide opportunities to travel internationally and engage in cultural exchanges to extend their global understanding of cultures. This unique holistic form of education, enables students to become well developed individuals while knowing their responsibilities as a global citizen.
How Does the Curriculum Offered at the British International School of Houston Equip Students for the Future?
International Curriculum and Benefits
The International curriculum at the British International School of Houston is geared to prepare students for a world that is going to grow more competitive each year. The school is equipping students to proceed in their post high school educational journey with the International Baccalaureate Diploma. The IB programme utilises an inquiry-based learning model to encourage students to question, explore and think critically. This method supports improved student learning outcomes and develops a love of learning which is vital to adapt to an ever-changing job market.
Extracurricular Activities and Academic Programmes
Extracurricular activities are an important part of the total education at BIS Houston and are included in the context of the academic programmes. Students are offered a wide range of flexible engagement opportunities, across a variety of areas such as arts, music, sports and clubs of various descriptions. One clear demonstration of the school’s commitment to sports is the varsity girls soccer programme, which fosters fitness, discipline, and teamwork, in addition to the obvious benefits of the sport itself. Extracurricular activities allow students opportunities to explore their interest beyond the academic content of their studies, thus preparing them as rounded individuals with various life skills they can take advantage of in the future.
Preparing Students for Global Opportunities
In this age of globalization and internationalization, the British International School of Houston prepares its students to take advantage of the global opportunities offered by developing an international mindset. The British International School of Houston’s curriculum ensures that students develop an international approach to learning and exposes students to the diversity of cultural backgrounds within the school’s student population. Prepares students to understand and act on global issues where they learn different languages, engage with different cultures in class, and communicate with other schools across the globe. Educating students around global issues prepare them for a world where all citizens and communities are constantly immersed in diversity. Studying global issues within an international-minded curriculum augments the academic resumes of students and makes them competitive candidates for universities and employment opportunities around the world.
What Experiences and Activities Can Parents and Students Experience at the British International School of Houston?
Annual Events and Celebrations
The British International School of Houston organizes various annual events and celebrations to promote feelings of community and community engagement. Many of the annual events created by the British International School of Houston are related to cultural celebrations or academic showcases, whereby families come together to celebrate their child or the accomplishments of students as a whole. As parents become involved in planning or participating in each of these events, the school and community tie strengthens. Events like the annual shows also highlight the range of diverse talents of students and provide families with experiences to make memories, ultimately allowing them to be part of the BIS Houston community.
Sports Programs: Specifically Varsity Girls Soccer
Athletics are an integral part of the student experience at BIS Houston and the varsity girls soccer program is a great representation of the school’s commitment to athletics. The program emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship, and provides students the opportunity to develop their potential as athletes and people. Students also begin to understand how to be committed and dedicated, learn how to balance life, and experience persistence through a commitment to competitive sports. The relationships formed, the moments shared, and the experience of supporting your school, differ – all are meaningful, all are part of the extra educational experience that institutions provide.
Parental Engagement and Community Initiatives.
The British International School of Houston highly values parental engagement and a variety of opportunities for families to engage in our school community. Parents may engage their time and skills which will help contribute to the program and positively impact student learning. The school also places a high value on engaging parents to learn about important topics in various ways including workshops and information meetings. This also demonstrates a productive partnership between home and school. Partnerships and events will enhance the structure between home and school which will positively impact students, their parents, and educators.
Informed about school news and events at the British International School of Houston?
School Communication Channels for Parents
At the British International School of Houston, it is important for parents to remain connected in order to be informed about school news and events. The school uses a number of successful modes of home-school communication to keep parents transparent and involved. The school’s emails or newsletters are a key form of communicated routinely about important announcements, events, and student achievements. This depth of communication is informative to parents about what’s going on at school, enabling parents to remain involved in their child’s educational experience and know what’s happening at school for events.
School Website and Social Media Updates
The British International School of Houston has a very informative website that serves as a hub of school information, including information about curriculum, admissions and events. Parents can access all of the relevant information and importantly, the school also uses its social media platforms to share live updates, photos and posts that celebrate the positive things happening in the school, thus supporting parents and students staying connected to the community. These forms of communication help to ensure the school is more transparent and supports parents and students having a sense of belonging.
Newsletters and Event calendars
Regular newsletters and event calendars are important ways for parents to stay connected to the British International School of Houston and the other activities that occur on campus. These newsletters are a way to share information about what is happening in classrooms, recognize student achievement and celebrate important dates in the academic calendar. In various settings, the school provides calendars in both digital format and hard copy to articulate events occurring in the community which, taken together, provides parents opportunities to participate in BIS Houston activities as they arise. Ultimately, the newsletters and calendars provide parents opportunities to engage in their child’s education and participate in the vibrant community that BIS Houston fosters.
What Are the Admissions Requirements for the British International School of Houston?
Application Process for Potential Students
The British International School of Houston purposely designed the admissions process to be straightforward, open, and accessible to families and potential students. When families are interested in applying to British International School of Houston, they must complete an online application, which provides important information, such as the student’s academic history. The school values diversity and aims to develop a student body that represents a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. For this reason, as part of the admissions process, families of applicants and students may be invited for an interview to extend the process of understanding the distinctive strengths and interests of each prospective student.
Key Dates and Timelines for 2024 Enrollment
It is a good idea for families interested in applying for admission in 2024 to know the key date elements and deadlines in the process. The British International School of Houston outlines the application deadline with clear information for prospective families about the interview and notification dates. Families can assure themselves that they will have the best opportunity to receive an offer for their child to apply if they meet the deadlines to apply. The school has a section in its website for holdings, with ongoing updates about admissions and family resources to use as they navigate through the admissions process.
Common Questions Relating to Admissions
To help make your admission process easier, we have provided a dedicated FAQ section on the British International School of Houston website – with useful responses to frequently asked questions by prospective families. The questions answered relate to eligibility, tuition, benefits of an international curriculum, etc. Based on our previous experiences with families new to this international school experience, the FAQ is an excellent opportunity to provide clarity to the admissions process. Our overall aim is to provide parents with all of the required information, so they are informed and can confidently embark on their educational journey with us.
FAQs
Q: Where is the British International School of Houston located?
A: The British International School of Houston is in Houston, Texas, in the Cypress area, in the Greater Katy area.
Q: What age range does the British International School of Houston serve?
A: The British International School of Houston serves students ages 3 to 18 through education that is age appropriate.
Q: How does the British International School of Houston incorporate the national curriculum?
A: The British International School of Houston incorporates the national curriculum with an international perspective, providing students internationally recognized education while also preparing them for local and international competition.
Q: What kind of extracurricular activities are offered at the British International School of Houston?
A: The school has activities for all interests, whether it be sports, the arts or expeditions. Outdoor challenge programs are designed to enhance the educational experience and allow students to develop transferrable skills outside of the classroom.
Q: What is the teacher-student ratio / how many students does each teacher have in the British International School of Houston?
A: The British International School of Houston provides an excellent teacher-student ratio, so that all students (especially at primary age students) receive the one-on-one attention and support for learning experiences.
Q: How does the British International School of Houston support students from different nationalities?
A: The British International School of Houston promotes an all-encompassing community for students from various nationalities, while providing opportunities for cultural appreciation, collaboration, and community within a diverse student body.
Q: Is there a specific admission policy at the British International School of Houston?
A: Yes, the admission policy at the British International School of Houston is to review any applicant’s academic record as well as their suitability for the school’s values and educational philosophy.
Q: In what ways does the British International School of Houston prepare students for universities in the world?
A: The British International School of Houston prepares students for countries and universities all over the world by a range of academic expectations, rigorous college counseling and global learning opportunities.
Q: What makes the British International School of Houston a premium school in the area?
A: The British International School of Houston is considered a premium school because of its goal to provide an outstanding education, care for character education and positive relationship building, and the extensive offering of programs whether academics or extracurricular activities.
Q: Will all families have a strong sense of community at the British International School of Houston?
A: Yes, families at the British International School of Houston become part of a tightly-knit community, often referred to as family of 80, where students, parents and staff can rely upon each other for support and collaboration.