Since 1987...
What came through again and again was the depth of warmth and sense of community that permeates throughout BIS at all levels.
- CIS (Council of International Schools)
Our bilingual international school, founded in 1987, is distinguished by its unique status as a SCOP (an educational Cooperative). This independence ensures that our decisions are never driven by financial profit but are guided by our commitment to embody and promote the fundamental values of academic excellence, inclusion, respect, and the personal growth of each individual.
As a SCOP, every member of our community—teachers, staff, and parents—actively contributes to creating a harmonious and meaningful educational environment.
BIS is fully aligned with the principles of the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE), an alternative economic model that places people and the common good at its centre. This approach is based on democratic governance, where every voice matters, and decisions are made collectively in the interest of the entire community. This model ensures transparent and ethical management, consistent with our values of equity, solidarity, and sustainable development.
We firmly believe that this cooperative structure and these strong values allow each student to thrive both academically and personally, within a truly human-centered and forward-looking framework.
BIS is proud to be accredited as a "School of Excellence" by the internationally renowned Council International Schools (CIS). The CIS community represents over 1500 schools and universities in over 120 countries, and this prestigious recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to a quality international education and pedagogical innovation.
As the only institution in the region to hold this distinction, we offer a high-quality bilingual education to children aged 3 to 18. Since 2000, our collaboration with CIS has enabled us to continuously evolve, aligning with both French and international standards in academics, well-being, and safeguarding.
Each year, our school welcomes students from approximately 40 nationalities who come together to learn in a caring and supportive environment. Our students are taught by inspiring, experienced international teachers. Our small class sizes (maximum 10/12 pupils per class in Early Learning and 16 students per class in Primary and Secondary) ensure that all students receive the support and guidance that they deserve.
BIS has been an official Cambridge International Education (CIE) centre since 1991. Our collaboration has helped to ensure that our students get the best possible curriculum that prepares them for higher education and life beyond our school.
We work with schools worldwide to build an education that shapes knowledge, understanding and skills. Together, we give learners the confidence they need to thrive and make a positive impact in a changing world.
- Cambridge
Under 'contrat simple' with the French Ministry of Education since 1999 and 'contrat d’association' since 2010 in the primary section, BIS undergoes regular inspections by the French Ministry of Education, ensuring adherence to French academic standards.
Through commitment to our values of open mindedness, care, responsibility, and cooperation, BIS is now the benchmark for high-quality bilingual international education in Bordeaux and the surrounding area.
