Bonn International School
Web: www.bis.bonn.org
2007-2008
The Bonn International School (BIS) was created in 1997 from the merger of 3 well-established and successful schools in Bonn: The Bonn American High School, the British High School Bonn, and the Bonn American Elementary School. BIS offers an English language program from ages 3-18 including an Early Learning Center (ELC) for ages 3 to 5 that complements the kindergarten through grade 12 program. The school year comprises 2 semesters beginning in mid-August and ending in the last week of June for a total of 180 school days.
Organization: BIS is an independent, self-supporting, nonprofit association, (e.V. eingetragener Verein) registered in Germany, governed by a Board of Trustees comprised of 10 members. Of these, 7 are elected by parents, 1 is the parent elected chair of the parent volunteers, 1 is elected by staff, and 1 represents the school leaders (one director). BIS works closely with the City of Bonn to serve the English language needs of the international community.
Curriculum: The curriculum throughout the School is based on the philosophy and practice of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). The IB Diploma, Middle Years Programs (MYP), and Primary Years Program (PYP) are fully authorized by the IBO making BIS one of only 140 schools worldwide with this status. In addition to optional external IB examinations, each student who completes the School's requirements will receive a high school diploma. Students in Grades 1-9 sit the International School Assessment (ISA). The School offers students the opportunity to sit PSAT and SAT examinations at regular intervals. Instruction in the German language is required of all students. The challenging class work requires daily homework of all students. A wide range of clubs, activities, community service, and outdoor experiences enhances the curriculum. An extensive music program is offered school-wide. Career and university counseling assists secondary students with planning for the future. The School has trained staff to support students with mild special learning needs. Bonn International School is a regular member of the European Council of International Schools (ECIS), the Association of German International Schools (AGIS), is certified by DoDDS and authorized as an IB World School.
Faculty: In the 2007-2008 school year, there are 57 full and part-time faculty members. Classes normally range in size between 12 and 22.
Enrollment: At the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year, enrollment was 512 students.
Facilities: Situated in a beautiful new campus on the banks of the Rhine River, the school now has state-of-the-art accommodation for 560 students; a well-equipped library; two large computer laboratories; a design and technology laboratory; four science laboratories; art and music rooms; performance spaces, a multipurpose room; a large sports hall and spacious, safe playgrounds and external sports facilities. In addition, the School has a learning support facility. The School offers an on-site catering service from 08.00 to 17.00 provided by Sodexho. The School does not provide transportation, but public transport is excellent.
Finances: In the 2007-2008 school year, annual tuition rates are as follows: ELC: half day €4,150; and full day €6,303; Kdg: €10,716; grade 1-5: €12,345; grades 6-10: €14,078; grades 11-12: €14,703. For new families, a one-time registration fee of €1,600 is payable on receipt of student's application. Registration fee for ELC is €800. The registration fee for second and subsequent children from the same family, including siblings of children already enrolled is €800. An annual facility fee of €550 per student and a capital fee of €500 per student is charged. (All fees are quoted in euros.).
