The British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi) has once again been rated Outstanding in the ADEK Irtiqaa inspection for 2025/26, successfully maintaining the highest possible classification – one the school initially secured in 2021 and which will now remain in place for the coming years until the next inspection.

The result places the school among a select group in Abu Dhabi recognised for sustained excellence across both academic outcomes and student development.

The ADEK report highlights Outstanding performance across nearly all key areas, including teaching, curriculum, assessment, student achievement, safeguarding, inclusion, leadership, and students’ learning skills.

Outstanding student achievement

Students demonstrate consistently high attainment and progress across all English-language subjects and phases. Inspectors noted students as confident, independent learners who apply critical thinking and problem-solving effectively across their studies.

Exceptional personal development

Students were recognised for their strong behaviour, self-discipline, and sense of responsibility. Many take active roles in school and community initiatives, including environmental projects, service learning, and fundraising.

Highly effective teaching and curriculum

Teaching, assessment, and curriculum design were rated Outstanding throughout the school. Lessons are well-structured and adapted to meet the needs of all learners, including students of determination and those requiring additional challenge.

Students benefit from a range of pathways, including IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme, and BTEC, allowing them to pursue routes aligned with their strengths and future ambitions.

Outstanding safeguarding, care, and inclusion

Inspectors described the school as an “exceptionally safe and inclusive environment,” with strong pastoral systems supporting student wellbeing. Provision for students of determination was recognised as highly effective and responsive.

Strong leadership and partnerships

Leadership was once again rated Outstanding, with a clear strategic direction and focus on continuous improvement. The report also highlights the school’s strong engagement with parents, universities, and external organisations to enrich learning opportunities.

Areas for continued development

ADEK identified further opportunities to strengthen Arabic-language subjects, refine assessment consistency, and enhance governance oversight – all of which align with the school’s current development priorities.

Alan Cocker, Principal of BIS Abu Dhabi, said: “We are incredibly proud to have once again been recognised as an Outstanding school by ADEK. This achievement belongs to our entire community – our exceptional staff, whose dedication and professionalism inspire students every day; our students, who bring curiosity, ambition, and character to their learning; and our parents, whose trust and partnership are invaluable to our success.

“We are committed to continuous improvement, and the feedback from ADEK helps us refine and elevate what we do. Our goal remains the same: to ensure every student thrives academically, socially, and personally, and leaves our school prepared for a bright and successful future.”