Information for Schools
The Department for Education (DfE) Approved Inspections for British Schools Overseas (BSO)
What do schools need to do to be recognised under this scheme?
Schools will need to demonstrate that they offer a broad and balanced curriculum and teaching that would equip pupils with the skills and qualifications to enable them to enter or re-enter the UK education system at school, college or university level as appropriate. In addition, British schools should be able to provide opportunities for a wide range of extra-curricular activities and strong welfare support. They should promote a general knowledge and understanding of modern British life, particularly in relation to the values of tolerance, democracy and respect for freedom of expression.
What do BSO inspections cover?
They cover quality of the curriculum, quality of teaching and learning, the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils, their welfare, health and safety, the suitability of the proprietor and staff, the school’s premises and accommodation (including boarding) and a school’s complaints procedures. An essential part of the inspection is considering the extent to which the British character of the school is evident in its ethos, curriculum, teaching, care for pupils and pupils’ achievements. Schools will be inspected against the criteria which are given in the Standards that inspectorates must meet document.
How much do BSO inspections cost?
Schools need to meet the costs determined by the approved inspectorate and these will vary from place to place and from country to country. COBIS or the DfE has no role in fee-setting.
How long are BSO inspection reports valid for?
An inspection is a snapshot the particular day of inspection took place. Inspections will take place every three years.
Which inspectorates have been approved by the DfE to inspect British schools overseas?
- Independent Schools Inspectorate
- Penta International
- CfBT Education Trust
- Cambridge Education
- G2G Education Ltd
- Tribal Education Ltd
The following inspection providers are in operation and are being monitored by Ofsted:
- Independent Schools Inspectorate
- Penta International
- CfBT Education Trust
- Cambridge Education
Following a successful inspection by one of the DfE approved Inspectorates listed above, COBIS is able to confer formal recognition on its member schools worldwide.
Heads and senior leaders in COBIS schools are also eligible to train as ISI inspectors and to participate in inspections of both British International Schools and schools in the UK. Inspection teams for COBIS schools have an independent lead or reporting inspector and include team members who are practitioners in international schools as well as those from the UK.
More details are available from COBIS Executive Director, Colin Bell This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
