Secondary Section Update 1-5-2025
Y11 & IB2 Exams
Year 11 and IB2 students are now underway with their final board examinations. Both year groups have started strongly and we wish them well with maintaining their excellent start.
PTSC survey
A big thank you to everyone who attended the Parent Teacher Student Conferences (PTSC) on Sunday we hope that the meetings were helpful and supportive. Please complete the feedback survey by Sunday 11 May, the link having been sent via email this week.
Y7, Y8, Y9, Y10 and IB1 End of Year Exams
A reminder that end of year exams will run from Thursday 29 May until Wednesday 4 June. During this period students should only attend school for scheduled exams. The examination schedule has been resent again this week with a minor improvement made to the Year 9 schedule. All other year groups exams remain as before.
Poetry Slam
Thank you everyone who supported Book Week across Secondary this week. Congratulations also to all of the Year 7, 8 and 9 students who performed at the poetry slam this week. All of the poems and performances were fantastic, and the judges were hugely impressed by standard and quality of writing.
Student spotlight
Congratulations to Talia Kayali for her wonderful presentation this week for the inaugural IB1 talks. Talia provided a very high-quality interpretation of the texts she is reading in English to members of staff and the rest of the year group. We look forward to welcoming Julia Garcia this coming Monday for the next iteration of IB1 talks whereby we seek to raise student standards in English Literature whilst developing important analytical and presentation skills.
That is everything for this week. Enjoy the weekend and week ahead.
- About Us
- Welcome to BISJ
Welcome to BISJ
The British International School of Jeddah (BISJ) is an international community with a global vision. Our innovative teaching and curriculum prepare students for the global stage.
We are a community co-educational school in Saudi Arabia with a long history of academic excellence and innovation. With 47 years of excellence in education, BISJ is a trusted name in the region. Recognised for its commitment to nurturing young minds, BISJ leads in delivering world-class education, providing a strong foundation for academic and personal growth.
Rooted in British educational values, but with a broad international outlook, we empower students to gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
A rigorous academic curriculum is combined with personalised one-to-one support, and outstanding extra-curricular opportunities to nurture critical thinkers and lifelong learners.
British values, global perspective
Founded in 1977, we operate on a purpose-built site, with over 1,300 students from over 60 countries and with more than 240 staff from 20 countries.
Our highly-qualified staff, use of international best practices, and exceptional facilities create a nurturing environment where young learners can explore, grow, and thrive. Our developmentally-appropriate programmes empower children to build essential skills, ensuring they are ready for the next stage of their educational journey and beyond.
International curriculum
Our curriculum reflects the international nature of the school. Our primary curriculum is based on the International Primary Curriculum, while in the secondary curriculum students follow a programme leading to the International General Certificate of Secondary Education in Year 11 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma in Year 13.
The school is licensed to operate by the Directorate of Foreign Education of the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia, and is governed by a Board of Trustees. While the school is patronised by some diplomatic missions, notably the British, the school does not have any form of diplomatic status.
BISJ has many traditions, but my favorite is International Day, where all the cultures come together. It’s something I look forward to every year.” Hana, IB2
A close-knit community
We believe in building a strong, supportive community where collaboration with families is at the heart of everything we do. We foster meaningful relationships between students, parents, and staff, creating a close-knit school community where everyone works together to ensure each child’s success.
TogetherWe Are BISJ
We encourage our students to be change-makers. Browse our student-led news content for an insight into daily life at the school.
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 30 April 2025
The British International School of Jeddah (BISJ) is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant to join our Primary Section. This full-time role is ideal for someone who enjoys working as part of a collaborative team to support students both inside and outside the classroom.
Key Responsibilities:
· Support the academic and personal development of Primary Section students.
· Assist teachers in classroom activities, lesson delivery, and resource preparation.
· Serve as a positive English-speaking role model and support students with additional language or special needs.
· Help plan and supervise extracurricular activities, including a minimum of 30 club sessions per year.
· Assist with classroom preparation, resource management, and the display of children’s work.
· Promote positive behaviour, student welfare, and a safe, inclusive environment.
· Collaborate with staff and participate in professional development, meetings, and school events.
Requirements:
· Fluent English speaker with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
· Experience working with children in an educational setting is preferred.
· Professional, punctual, and committed to fostering a positive and inclusive school environment.
· Willingness to support extracurricular activities and engage with the wider school community.
· Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and demonstrate initiative when required.
This is a full-time position for a candidate already residing in Jeddah. Please note that sponsorship is not available.
BISJ is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children. Pre-employment checks, including identity verification and police clearance, will be conducted as part of our recruitment process.
Start Date: As soon as possible.
Closing Date for Applications: 15 May 2025
Application Process: To apply, please complete the online application form available on our website www.bis-jeddah.com
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 28 April 2025
Y4 took to the catwalk in style to kick off our exciting new Textiles unit.
The students designed and modelled incredible upcycled outfits, turning everyday materials into high-fashion masterpieces.
Their creativity, confidence and flair made for an unforgettable fashion show! Stay tuned for more sustainable style inspiration from our talented young designers!
#BISJ #Y4Textiles #UpcycledFashion #CreativeKids
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 28 April 2025
FS2-2 has been learning about diversity and how we are all different but also the same. They gained an understanding about melanin, which gives us our hair, skin and even our eye colours.
They understood that darker people have more melanin in their bodies while lighter people have less melanin.
Not only do we have different skin colors, hair and eyes, but we have different personalities and interests. The children then drew a picture of their friends and spoke about why they like them. We are all the same, but different! How wonderful to be a part of such a diverse environment!
#BISJ #FS2 #EarlyYears #Diversity #Jeddah #BritishSchool
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 28 April 2025
We proudly celebrated the richness, diversity, and beauty of the French language and Francophone cultures at BISJ!
Students and staff came together to enjoy a vibrant celebration featuring live musical performances in French, beautifully delivered by our talented students. The festivities continued with a culinary journey through French cuisine, as food stalls served up delicious classics such as crêpes, croque monsieur, and quiche Lorraine — a true feast for the senses!
BISJ was honoured to welcome special guests:
* Mrs Lisbeth Choquet, Attachée culturelle at the French Consulate
* Mr Fabrice Quignon, Director of the French International School of Jeddah
* Mr Larry Lamartinière, Director of the Alliance Française of Jeddah
Our guests were warmly welcomed and shared in the joy of celebrating Francophone language and culture. They left inspired by the passion, creativity, and enthusiasm shown by our students and staff throughout the day.
Un grand merci à tous les participants et invités — merci d’avoir rendu cette journée si mémorable !
#BISJ #secondaryschool #JEDDAHSCHOOL #BRITISHSCHOOL #FrancophonieDay
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 27 April 2025
We warmly invite our Primary parents you to join us for our upcoming Coffee Morning on Tuesday, 29 April 2025.
This session will focus on the important topic:
“How to Talk to Children About Bullying.”
This is a valuable opportunity to gain practical insights and strategies to support your child’s well-being and emotional #coffeemorning We look forward to seeing you there!
#primaryschool #BISJ #JEDDAHSCHOOL #BritishSchool #coffeemorning
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 24 April 2025
SS Update 24-04-2025
Welcome back to school to everyone following the combined Eid and Easter holidays. I hope that everyone enjoyed the break and is energised ready for a successful conclusion to the academic year. Thank you to everyone involved in supporting the Francophonie day celebrations yesterday. And to our special guests from the French Consulate, Alliance Francaise and Ecole Francaise International De DJeddah
Y11 IGCSE and IB Exams
The Year 11 Cambridge IGCSE and IB Diploma Programme final exams commence in the coming days with students officially on study leave from Friday 25 April. Meaning that Year 11 and IB2 students should only be in school for board examinations or where they have prearranged to meet with a member of staff. We wish all our Year 11 and IB2 students the very best of luck during this challenging period. May you have clear and focussed minds under pressure and be well prepared ready to rise to the challenge and excel. To achieve these outcomes students should ensure that they gain plenty of sleep and avoid revising late at night, eat well, and exercise regularly.
End of Year Exams
The End of Year examinations for students in Years 7, 8, 9, 10. And IB1 are scheduled from Thursday 29 May until Wednesday 4 June inclusive, with important feedback being conducted after the Eid Al Adha holiday. During the examination period students will have study leave and only attend school for scheduled examinations. Please refer to the examination schedule circulated today and make arrangements for transport to and from school during the examination period.
PTSC
Next week we will hold the PTSC meetings on Sunday 27 April. The booking system closes today at 3:15pm. Morning conferences from 8am-12:30 will be virtual meetings via Engage Video Conferencing. Parents need to ensure that they are logged in using the same credentials used for making the bookings. We understand that both parents can now join the same meeting via two separate devices but both must use the same log-in credentials as each other. Afternoon meetings from 1:15-6pm will be face-to-face in the sports hall. We kindly request all colleagues and parents be mindful of adhering to appointment timings to ensure the smooth running of the conferences.
Book Week
The coming week is Book Week and on Monday 28 April we invite Secondary students and staff to dress as a character from a book of their choice. We look forward to an exciting array of literary characters and in LLL time it will be dedicated towards Book Week and the importance of reading.
IB2 documentations
IB2 students and families are reminded of the need to finalise any requests for IB Results Legalisation and University Transcript Services. Students should refer to the Google Forms and deadlines available via the IB Studies Google Classroom.
DofE
Looking further ahead, we are excited to be offering Gold DofE Students the opportunity to visit Nepal for their Expedition and Residential elements of their award, in March 2026. Working with World Challenge, students will spend 14 nights in Nepal, trekking and working with local communities to make a real difference, offering students a truly once in a lifetime experience. Sign up is now open, and for further information, there will be a Zoom meeting with World Challenge on the 13th of May, where full details of the trip will be shared. Spaces are limited to 30 students so please register your interest and get involved.
Uniform Shop POS
Finally, please note that the uniform shop now benefits from a point of sale card machine to simplify payment of uniform purchases.
Have a good weekend everyone. I look forward to updating you next week.
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 24 April 2025
Reminder: Secondary Section Parent Teacher Student Conferences (PTSC)
Date: Sunday 27 April 2025
Online Meetings: 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM (via Engage Video Conferencing)
Face-to-Face Meetings: 1:15 PM – 6:00 PM (in the Sports Hall)
Booking System Closes on Thursday, 24 April at 3:15 PM.
Book via Engage portal to secure your preferred time slots!
Working together to support our students' success — see you there!
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 23 April 2025
Get Ready for World Book Day!
We’re celebrating over two exciting days !
Sunday:
Primary Book Character Parade | 8:20–9:00 AM
Primary students will dress as their favorite book characters and bring their favorite books. *Parents are invited to attend!*
Monday:
Secondary Dress-Up Day
Secondary students show off their favorite book characters—plus a full day of book-themed fun:
- Quiz during LLL
- Reception & Book Week activities
- Best-dressed competition at lunch (hosted by the Student Council)
- Read-aloud sessions with the Primary Section
Come dressed as your favorite character!
Let’s make it a World Book Day to remember!
#BISJ #primaryschool #secondaryschool #JEDDAHSCHOOL #BookDay
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 23 April 2025
Join us for a special Early Years Open Day on Thursday 1 May 2025 from 9:45 AM - 11:45 AM.
Find out what makes us unique:
✨A Warm, Vibrant, and Welcoming School
✨Holistic Development
✨Play-Based Learning
✨Reggio Emilia Philosophy
✨A Safe and Supportive Environment
✨A Diverse and International Community
✨Support for Every Child
This is a fantastic opportunity for parents of children ages 2–5 years to get an inside look at what makes our school so special!
Spaces are limited, so be sure to register today! Don't miss out on this chance to find out how we nurture and inspire young learners.
Book your spot today via bis-jeddah.com or send an email to registrar@conti.sch.sa
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 29 March 2025
As we celebrate this special occasion, we extend our heartfelt wishes to our BISJ family.
May this Eid bring moments of joy, peace, and togetherness.
We hope it is filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories with your loved ones.
Eid Mubarak to each and every one of you!
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 27 March 2025
The British International School of Jeddah (BISJ) is seeking a proactive and highly organised School Services Coordinator to join our administrative team. This key role supports the smooth and efficient day-to-day operations of the school, including cafeteria coordination, front desk coverage, staff housing logistics, sustainability initiatives, and uniform shop support.
Key Responsibilities:
· Oversee daily cafeteria operations and maintain stock records of supplies and tableware.
· Provide front desk support in the absence of the receptionist to ensure smooth communication and visitor assistance.
· Coordinate staff housing logistics, including inspections, maintenance requests, and house moves.
· Support sustainability and environmental projects, including recycling efforts and student-led initiatives.
· Assist with the operation of the uniform shop during peak periods.
· Carry out general administrative and operational tasks as assigned by the School Services Manager.
Skills and Experience:
· Educated to bachelor’s degree level
· Strong organisational and multitasking abilities with attention to detail.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
· Fluent English communication skills (spoken and written); Arabic is a plus.
· Discretion and professionalism in handling sensitive information.
· Flexible and willing to work occasional weekends or after-hours when required.
· Previous experience in an administrative or coordination role, ideally in an international school or hospitality setting.
· Knowledge or interest in sustainability initiatives is desirable.
· Familiarity with the local Jeddah community and cultural awareness is an advantage.
Note: This position is open to candidates currently residing in Jeddah. Sponsorship is not available for this role.
BISJ is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children. Pre-employment checks, including identity verification and police clearance, will be conducted as part of our recruitment process.
Start Date: May 2025
Closing Date for Applications: 24 April 2025
Application Process: To apply, please complete the online application form available on our website www.bis-jeddah.com
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 27 March 2025
Our amazing Year 6 Playground Leaders have been making a huge impact during Year 1 and 2 playtimes!
By guiding and supporting younger peers, they’re developing essential leadership skills like responsibility, communication, and problem-solving.
These students have provided structured activities and have been positive role models in our playground. Creating a more exciting space for all!
#BISJ #jeddahschool #PlaygroundLeaders #primaryschool #JEDDAHSCHOOL
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 27 March 2025
Don’t miss out on our exciting collaboration with partners to bring you an action-packed lineup of programmes, including watersports, fitness, creative robotics, art, football, and swimming! With something for every age group, each programme has been carefully designed to deliver amazing experiences and fun memories you won’t want to miss!
Book your spot now!
#BISJ #SpringCamp #Sports #Art #Robotics #Swimming #Football
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 27 March 2025
The British International School of Jeddah (BISJ) is seeking a qualified and vigilant Lifeguard to join our team This full-time role is key to maintaining a safe, clean and supportive environment at our swimming pool. Reporting to the Head of Swimming, the successful candidate will support swimming lessons, competitions, and events while ensuring the highest standard of safety for all pool users. The position offers a supportive and dynamic working environment, opportunities for training and professional development, and the chance to contribute to a vibrant international school community.
Key Responsibilities:
· Monitor swimmers and enforce pool safety rules at all times.
· Identify and mitigate safety risks in and around the pool area.
· Perform rescues and administer first aid or CPR in emergency situations.
· Conduct regular inspections of pool equipment and report any hazards.
· Support school swimming lessons, competitions, and events.
· Attend staff meetings and participate in professional development.
· Ensure pool equipment is properly maintained and stored.
· Maintain a high level of physical fitness and emergency preparedness.
Requirements:
· Valid lifeguard certification (e.g. Red Cross, RLSS or equivalent).
· Current First Aid and CPR Certification.
· Experience in lifeguarding and water safety.
· Strong observational skills and quick response in emergencies.
· Ability to work effectively with students, staff and the swimming team.
· Commitment to student safety, professionalism, and ethical conduct.
Note: This position is open to candidates currently residing in Jeddah. Sponsorship is not available for this role.
BISJ is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children. Pre-employment checks, including identity verification and police clearance, will be conducted as part of our recruitment process.
Start Date: May 2025
Closing Date for Applications: 22 April 2025
Application Process: To apply, please complete the online application form available on our website www.bis-jeddah.com
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 27 March 2025
SS Update - Thursday 27th March 2025
End of Term:
Congratulations to everyone on reaching the last day of term 2. I hope that all members of the school community will enjoy a restful Eid and Easter holiday.
Year 11 and IB2:
For Year 11 and IB2 students, the holidays need to support the readiness for exceptional performance in final examinations in addition to providing some rest. Both year 11 and IB2 have three days of school remaining after the holiday where we expect to see them all in school, prior to study leave commencing on Friday 25th April. The Year 11 IGCSE and IB examination schedules have been recirculated this week. The start times of examinations should be closely noted allowing sufficient travel time to avoid any unnecessary stress and pressure to come into play.
Term 3:
Looking forward, we have a lot happening upon our return to school on Tuesday 22nd April. The Francophonie French Day will take place on Wednesday 23rd April. Students bring 30 SAR to enjoy the celebration and buy French Food. Please remember the last day of submission for the Francophonie photography contest is the 22nd of April - that is the first day back. The cafeteria will also be supporting the event and serving French themed food on the day.
PTSC:
Parent, Teacher, Student Conferences (PTSC) will be held on Sunday 27th April 2025 via a blended approach - morning conferences from 8am to 12.30pm will be conducted online via Engage Video conferencing while afternoon conferences from 1.15pm to 6pm will be face-to-face meetings in the Sports Hall. The appointment booking process will be open on Engage on Tuesday 22nd April at 11am closing on Thurs 24th April at 3.15pm.
Y7, Y8 and Y9 Poetry Slam:
The Years 7, 8 and 9 Poetry Slams will take place on the 28th and 29th of April. This is where the winning poets from each class will perform their poetry to a live audience at a special after-school performance in the Drama Studio. Parents of Year 7, 8 and 9 students please keep an eye out after the holiday for an invitation to these events and come and enjoy an evening full of poetic mastery.
DofE:
A reminder to all students that sign up for DofE for the next academic year is now open, please contact a member of the DofE team for further information.
And finally, Enjoy the Eid and Easter holiday wherever you will be spending it. We look forward to seeing everyone back at school ready for an 8am start on Tuesday 22nd April.
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 27 March 2025
Yesterday, over 200 students, teachers, and parents attended the Y6 Science Fair, a testament to BISJ's commitment to scientific excellence. The event was a tremendous success, marking the culmination of three weeks of hard work during which children demonstrated creativity and resourcefulness in designing their science projects.
The students created a measurable scientific question and devised and conducted experiments, utilising all aspects of the scientific method and presented their work to judges from across the school community.
#BISJ #Upperprimary #ScienceFair #JEDDAHSCHOOL #BRITISHSCHOOL
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 24 March 2025
Children from YE.1 showed a keen interest in learning more about shadows and light, so we took our exploration outside!
They observed their own shadows and those of different objects, noticing how they changed with movement and position. To deepen their understanding, they experimented with paint, paper, and transparent blocks, discovering how light interacts with different materials.
This hands-on exploration guided them through an exciting journey of curiosity and creativity!
#BISJ #JEDDAHSCHOOL #BRITISHSCHOOL #earlyyears #FS1
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@The British International School of Jeddah - 24 March 2025
Year 3 Water Sports Adventure!
Over the last three weeks, the Year 3 students have had an unforgettable experience at the Yacht Club in Jeddah! From sailing and kayaking to paddle boating and so many more exciting water sports activities, our young adventurers embraced every challenge with big smiles and endless enthusiasm.
They showed teamwork, courage, and curiosity while learning new skills on the water — and, of course, having tons of fun!
Swipe to see their laughter, determination, and moments of joy. We are so proud of them!
#WaterSportsAdventure #Year3 #LearningBeyondTheClassroom #YachtClubJeddah #Teamwork #Confidence #FunInTheSun #BISJAdventures
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