COBIS @ 45: Celebrating our Legacy. Shaping the Future.
45 Years of Excellence in British International Education
In 2026, COBIS marks 45 years of championing high standards, collaboration, and innovation in British international education. From our beginnings as a small group of schools in Europe, to a truly global association of more than 330 schools across 85+ countries, COBIS has grown into a trusted voice and vibrant community at the heart of international education.
Divider Logo
Our Journey: 1981–2026
Explore the milestones that have shaped COBIS over 45 years.
Divider Logo
A Message from Our CEO
Colin Bell, CEO, COBIS
“COBIS@45 is not only a celebration of how far we have come, but a statement of intent for the future. Over the past four and a half decades, our strength has always come from our members - the schools, educators, leaders and partners who believe in collaboration, quality and global connection.
As we mark this milestone, we are investing in new ways for our members to connect with one another, to share best practice, to strengthen safeguarding, to drive school improvement, and to access meaningful professional growth. We are expanding opportunities for students to engage globally, strengthening our support for school leaders, and continuing to set internationally recognised benchmarks for quality and safeguarding.
The next chapter of COBIS will be defined by deeper engagement, greater collaboration, and a renewed focus on impact. I am excited about what lies ahead - and proud to share this journey with such an exceptional global community.”
A Message from Our Chair
Lord Jim Knight, Chair of COBIS
“Reaching 45 years is a remarkable achievement - and one that speaks to the enduring relevance of COBIS in a rapidly changing educational landscape. Our role has never been more important: to champion excellence, to advocate for our sector, and to support schools in preparing young people for an interconnected world.
As we look to the future, COBIS is strengthening its leadership voice, building new partnerships, and creating more opportunities for schools to collaborate and innovate together. COBIS@45 is a moment of pride, reflection, and optimism and a powerful platform for what comes next.”
Divider Logo
Our Global Community in Action
At the heart of COBIS are the schools who bring our shared values to life every day. From long‑established schools to newer members of the network, COBIS schools are united by a commitment to high standards, global citizenship and continuous improvement. These stories capture what it truly means to be part of the COBIS community.
Divider Logo
What Comes Next for COBIS Members?
Our 45th anniversary year marks the beginning of a new phase of growth and opportunity for the COBIS community. Over the coming months, members will see the rollout of initiatives designed to strengthen connection, professional learning, and student impact across our global network.
Professional Learning
-
📚 COBIS Programme for Middle Leaders – developing the next generation of leaders
-
🛡️ Safeguarding Training – equipping staff to create safe, supportive school environments
-
🤝 Online Networking and CPD – connecting with colleagues across the world to share best practice
-
And more...
Student Engagement and Global Opportunities
-
🌍 Model United Nations – debating global issues with peers worldwide
- 🎮 E-Sports Competition – connecting through teamwork, strategy, and innovation
- 🎓 Senior Leadership Weekend – developing confidence, collaboration, and leadership skillsClick here to see our Student Engagement Calendar for 2025/26
Connect with the COBIS community
-
💻 Webinars – expert-led sessions on leadership, learning, and wellbeing
-
📰 Blogs – sharing insights and experiences from across the COBIS community
-
🌐 Online Networking Opportunities – connect with peers worldwide to collaborate and exchange ideas
Contact our team to find out how to share your stories
World-Class Safeguarding
-
🛡️ Safeguarding Training – essential learning to keep students safe and staff confident
-
👥 Safer Recruitment Support – guidance and training to ensure schools recruit safely and responsibly
-
✅ BISSC Membership – COBIS is part of the British International Schools Safeguarding Coalition, strengthening standards globally
Discover our Safeguarding Training and Safer Recruitment Resources