African Excellence Awards 2026 19 With 13 years of excellence, The British International School of Tunis (BIST) has established itself as Tunisia’s leading British international school, providing an exceptional English education to pupils aged 3 to 18. BIST combines academic excellence with outstanding pastoral care, empowering every child to become a confident, compassionate and globally minded individual. Following its recognition as British School of the Year 2026 – North Africa, we take a closer look at the values, vision and achievements that continue to distinguish BIST across the region. For over a decade, The British International School of Tunis has been shaping futures through an education that goes beyond the classroom. As a family-oriented school, BIST is committed to nurturing the whole child, combining academic excellence with personal development, creativity and wellbeing. Every pupil is encouraged to challenge themselves, discover their passions and develop the confidence to succeed in an ever-changing world. The school’s guiding motto, “Work Hard, Dream Big,” reflects its belief that ambition, determination and resilience are the foundations of lifelong success. Pupils are inspired to set high aspirations while receiving the personalised support, encouragement and opportunities needed to achieve them. BIST occupies a unique position within Tunisia’s educational landscape as the country’s leading British international school, delivering the National Curriculum for England alongside Cambridge International programmes. As a recognised Cambridge International Examination Centre, pupils benefit from internationally respected qualifications that open doors to some of the world’s most prestigious universities. The school is proudly accredited by the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) and is recognised through the British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection framework, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of British education. These internationally recognised accreditations provide families with the confidence that their children are receiving an education that meets rigorous global benchmarks while remaining firmly centred on each child’s individual journey. At the heart of BIST lies a vibrant and inclusive international community. Welcoming pupils from more than 40 nationalities, the school celebrates diversity as one of its greatest strengths. Living and learning in Tunisia offers pupils the unique opportunity to experience the richness of Arabic language, history and culture while developing an appreciation for different perspectives and traditions. This multicultural environment prepares young people to become responsible global citizens who are comfortable working and collaborating across cultures. Pupils are encouraged to be Brave by embracing challenges, stepping beyond their comfort zones and developing the confidence to take thoughtful risks in both learning and life. They are inspired to be Imaginative, thinking creatively, solving problems with innovation and approaching the future with curiosity and vision. Through high expectations and consistent guidance, they become Selfdisciplined, taking responsibility for their learning, demonstrating perseverance and developing the habits required for long-term success. Above all, they learn to be Tolerant, showing empathy, kindness and respect towards others while valuing the diversity that enriches their school community. Alongside its rigorous academic programme, BIST offers a broad and balanced educational experience that nurtures every pupil’s talents. Whether through STEAM, performing arts, music, sport, leadership initiatives, Model United Nations, enrichment clubs or community projects, pupils are encouraged to discover new interests, build confidence and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Personalised learning remains central to the school’s philosophy. Recognising that every child has unique strengths, aspirations and learning styles, BIST provides tailored support that enables each pupil to flourish academically, socially and emotionally. The school’s dedicated pastoral care ensures that pupils feel safe, valued and empowered to become the very best version of themselves. This commitment is perfectly reflected in BIST’s educational mission: “An Education Without Limit”. More than a statement, it represents the school’s ambition to remove barriers to learning and create limitless opportunities for every child. Following extensive collaboration with staff and pupils, the school established a shared definition of learning that continues to guide its educational approach: “Learning is the acquisition and application of knowledge and skills through wonder, discovery and challenge, leading to sustained adaptability, intellectual development and a genuine thirst for more.” Reflecting on this vision, Karyn Walton, Executive Principal and Chair of Governors, explains: “Our mission statement describes the essential functions and culture of the school, the standards and aspirations we seek to maintain or improve, and what we must do to continue moving towards our vision. The British International School of Tunis aims to be a leading school in MENA, dedicated to educating kind, innovative and brave children and young people to their highest academic and creative potential.” As BIST looks towards the future, it remains committed to continually investing in innovation, outstanding teaching and enriching educational experiences that prepare pupils for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow. This unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation and character development continues to reinforce The British International School of Tunis’ position as one of the region’s most respected educational institutions and a truly deserving recipient of the British School of the Year 2026 – North Africa award. Contact: Karyn Walton Company: The British International School of Tunis Web Address: www.bistunis.info British School of the Year 2026 – North Africa
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