Berlin British School (BBS) is a private, non-profit international school located in Berlin, Germany. Established in 1994, BBS offers a British-style education from Nursery to Grade 12. The school serves students aged 3 to 18 and follows an international curriculum that blends British education with local German requirements. With a reputation for academic rigor, discipline, and extracurricular excellence, BBS is a popular choice for families seeking a strong educational foundation in Berlin.
- Location: Dickensweg 17-19, Berlin, 14055, Germany
- Grades: Nursery (3 years) to Grade 12 (18 years)
- Student Numbers: Approximately 500 students
- Curriculum: British, IGCSE, IB Diploma, and German Bilingual Program
- Fees: €12,600 – €18,500 per year
- Languages: English (primary), German (mandatory)
- Uniform Requirements: Yes
- Accreditations: CIS, COBIS, IB World School
Academic Excellence at Berlin British School
Berlin British School offers a well-rounded education, combining British curriculum with German bilingual education. The school prides itself on preparing students for higher education through the International Baccalaureate (IB) and IGCSE qualifications.
Curriculum & Qualifications:
- Early Years: The Foundation Stage Curriculum is followed, combining the British model with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Berliner Bildungsprogramm.
- Primary School: Students in grades 1 to 5 follow the IB PYP with either a bilingual English-German program or a monolingual English program.
- Secondary School: In grades 6 to 10, students follow the IGCSE program. In grades 11 and 12, students can choose between the IB Diploma and German Mittlerer Schulabschluss (MSA).
The IB Diploma prepares students for university with a global perspective while the IGCSE provides a solid foundation in core subjects.
Extracurricular Activities and Sports
Berlin British School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities to support the development of students outside the classroom. From arts to sports, there are opportunities for every interest.
- Arts: The school offers a comprehensive music program, with private lessons and school performances, including drama and music productions.
- Sports: Students participate in German Independent Schools Sports Tournaments (GISST) and compete in a variety of sports including football, basketball, and volleyball. The school also has an indoor sports hall and outdoor sports fields.
- Clubs & Activities: Various clubs such as robotics, debate, and fencing are available, allowing students to pursue their interests and talents.
Learning Support and SEN Provision
Berlin British School is committed to inclusive education. The school employs a full-time learning support coordinator to assist students with mild learning disabilities such as dyslexia and ADHD.
- Learning Support: Students are provided with individual education plans (IEPs) to help them succeed in the classroom.
- Language Support: EAL (English as an Additional Language) is offered from reception to grade 6, ensuring non-native speakers can access the curriculum.
Pastoral Care and Community
The school fosters a strong sense of community with a focus on pastoral care and student well-being.
- Social-Emotional Learning: Social and emotional counseling is available to all students, helping them develop self-awareness, problem-solving skills, and empathy.
- Student Leadership: Students are encouraged to take on leadership roles within the school community, participating in student councils and other leadership initiatives.
The House System encourages team spirit and helps students build connections across all ages, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
University Admissions and Success
Berlin British School has a strong track record of sending students to top universities in Germany, the UK, and beyond. With personalized college counseling and support, students are well-prepared for success at prestigious institutions worldwide.
- Recent Graduate Destinations: Oxford, Cambridge, and University College London (UCL), among others.
- University Placement: The school’s IB Diploma program prepares students for global university admissions, particularly in Europe and North America.
Fees and Admissions
Berlin British School follows a non-selective admissions policy with a rolling admissions process. Students are evaluated based on their previous school records and, in some cases, an interview.
Annual Fee Structure:
| Grade Level | Fees (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Nursery (3-4 years) | €12,600 |
| Primary School | €14,000 – €16,000 |
| Secondary School | €16,500 – €18,500 |
Additional fees for registration, lunch, transportation, sports, and after-school activities may apply.
Conclusion
Berlin British School (BBS) offers a high-quality education in a nurturing environment, making it an excellent choice for international families in Berlin. With a rigorous academic curriculum, strong extracurricular opportunities, and a supportive community, BBS prepares students for success both in higher education and life beyond school.
For more information on admissions and school facilities, visit the BBS Website.
Accreditations & Memberships:
- IB World School
- Council of International Schools (CIS)
- Council of British International Schools (COBIS)
- Cambridge International Schools
- European Council of International Schools (ECIS)
- German International Schools Association (AGIS)
