Founded in 1972, Bandung Independent School (BIS) is the oldest international school in Bandung and has earned an excellent reputation for providing a truly international education within a close-knit, non-profit community. Unlike many international schools, BIS operates as a non-profit foundation, meaning that all revenue is reinvested into improving student learning, campus facilities and educational programmes rather than being distributed to shareholders. This allows the school to continually invest in high-quality teaching, modern facilities and student wellbeing.
One of BIS’s greatest strengths is that it is the only school in Bandung authorised to offer all three International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes—the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). Students therefore benefit from a seamless IB education from the early years through graduation, developing inquiry skills, critical thinking, leadership and international-mindedness throughout their schooling. The school also attracts families from more than 20 nationalities, creating a genuinely multicultural learning environment.
BIS places a strong emphasis on educating the whole child. In addition to academic excellence, students participate in extensive sports, performing arts, outdoor education, service learning and leadership programmes. As a member of the IISSAC international schools sports league, students regularly compete against other international schools throughout Indonesia. Small class sizes, experienced international teachers and a welcoming community make BIS a popular choice for both expatriate and internationally-minded Indonesian families living in Bandung.
