Parent's Review of The British School Manila in Metro Manila, Philippines

What is the name of your child's school? (Please report on one school per survey.)

The British School Manila

In what town or city is this school located?

Metro Manila

How would you describe this school? (i.e. American, British, International, Local, etc.)

British

What grade levels are represented at this school?

Nursery through Year 13

How do most children get to school everyday? (bus, train, walk, etc.)

Most children arrive by private car, but there is a bus option as well.

How would you describe the facilities at this school? What extra-curricular activities are available?

The school employs clusters, which makes it seem quite cozy. Facilities are good. There is a range of paid and free after-school activities for students - everything from football/soccer, swimming, RAD ballet, chess, martial arts, etc.

What has this school done to help your child transition from the curriculum in your home country into the curriculum in your new country? Are there programs to prepare your child for repatriation?

BSM uses the pastoral care system commonly used in the UK. Generally speaking, new students are integrated quickly into the student body. Tutorials can be scheduled with teaching assistants after school to help children who might have gaps in knowledge as they move from different schools/sytems.

For families currently living in Manila, part of the evaluation process includes a day in school. This gives both the teachers and the prospective student a practical opportunity to see if BSM is a good fit.

How would you describe the social activities available for parents through this school? Are there parent-teacher organizations?

All parents are automatically members of the PTA. Each year, there are two family-oriented activities for the entire school (Bonfire Night and the annual Fete), plus coffee mornings and curriculum evenings. Parents can be involved in the PTA, volunteering for special days/functions, helping with reading in class, and volunteering as class representatives.

What advice would you give to someone considering enrolling their child in this school?

The British School Manila is a warm, family-oriented school. The children always seem quite happy to be at school and many parents meet up in the afternoons whilst waiting for their children. BSM's approach to learning is especially good for able children who need a bit more challenge than what is available at schools with a rigid curriculum.

My children have studied at four schools (including another school in Manila), and BSM has been the best fit for us so far. I highly recommend a visit to talk to the administration and see the children's happy faces.