Founded in 1997, BAISIS is dedicated to championing the academic and pastoral support of international students within UK independent schools. It defines and shares best practices in areas such as English as an Additional Language (EAL), visa compliance, and cultural integration. The association provides specialized training, conferences, and networking opportunities to help staff navigate the unique challenges of educating a global student body. Since 2020, BAISIS has operated as part of the BSA Group (Boarding Schools’ Association), strengthening its ability to support schools in delivering high-quality care to overseas pupils.
BAISIS Member Schools (29)
Situated in Eastbourne on the East Sussex coast, Eastbourne College is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 13 to 18. Established in 1867, the school is located between the beach and the South Downs, describing itself as a ‘blue health school’ that promotes well-being through its maritime environment. The campus features the Birley Centre and the Winn Building, offering a mix of modern and traditional facilities. The school claims to focus on a holistic education underpinned by its core values of excellence, integrity, participation, and kindness.
Bishop’s Stortford College is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18, situated on a 130-acre campus in Hertfordshire. Established in 1868 by Nonconformists, the school provides an all-through education that emphasises the values of scholarship and character. Architectural features include the 1922 Memorial Hall and the FS Young Library, which sit alongside modern facilities such as a 150-seat theatre and an indoor swimming pool. The college focuses on academic development alongside a broad programme in sport and the performing arts.
St Mary's School, Cambridge is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3 to 18, situated in the heart of Cambridge. Rooted in the Catholic tradition, the school provides a comprehensive educational journey encompassing nursery, prep, senior school, and sixth form stages. It focuses on fostering academic excellence, curiosity, and holistic development within a supportive community, offering flexible and full boarding alongside day provision.
Frensham Heights is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18, situated on a 120-acre estate near Farnham, Surrey. Founded in 1925, the school maintains a progressive ethos where students do not wear a uniform and staff are addressed by their first names. The campus is centred around a Grade II listed Edwardian mansion and features a dedicated performing arts centre. The school emphasises individual development and creative expression, offering a broad curriculum that includes a strong focus on outdoor education and the arts.
King Edward's Witley is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 11 to 18, situated within a 100-acre estate in the Surrey Hills. Founded in 1553 by King Edward VI, the school moved from London to its current site in Godalming in 1867. It offers a broad curriculum including both A-levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma. The school emphasises a holistic education, supported by facilities such as a dedicated music school, a business and finance centre, and extensive sports grounds.
Aldro is a co-educational day and boarding preparatory school for pupils aged 7 to 13, located in Shackleford near Godalming. Founded in 1898 and relocated to its current Surrey site in 1940, the school operates with a Christian foundation. Set within extensive grounds, facilities include a rowing lake, an adventure island, and a swimming pool. The school focuses on the development of the whole child through a broad curriculum and co-curricular programme, preparing pupils for transition to leading senior schools via the Common Entrance pathway.
Caterham School is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18, situated in the Harestone Valley in Surrey. Set within a 200-acre campus, the school was founded in 1811 and moved to its current location in 1884. It provides a broad curriculum with a strong emphasis on digital innovation, being recognised as an Apple Distinguished School. Facilities include a performing arts centre, a large sports complex, and extensive woodland used for outdoor education. The school fosters an environment focused on both academic achievement and personal development.
Sutton Valence School is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 2 to 18, set within 100 acres of Kent countryside overlooking the Weald. Founded in 1576 by William Lambe, the school balances its rich history with modern facilities, including a 200-seat theatre and the Sydney Wooderson Sports Centre. Its ethos centres on a "Total Curriculum" designed to develop well-rounded individuals through academic, sporting, and artistic achievement. The school provides a supportive community environment, maintaining strong traditions while offering extensive extracurricular opportunities in rugby, hockey, and cricket.
DLD College London is a co-educational independent college situated on London’s South Bank, overlooking the River Thames and the Houses of Parliament. Founded in 1931 as Davies, Laing and Dick, the college caters for students aged 13 to 19, offering GCSEs, A Levels, BTECs, and International Foundation Programmes. Housed in a landmark purpose-built campus, it provides on-site urban boarding alongside specialised facilities for the creative arts, music technology, and sciences. The college maintains an ethos of independence and maturity, using its central London location to prepare students for university and professional life.
Westminster School is a historic boarding and day school for pupils aged 13 to 18, located within the Precincts of Westminster Abbey. Refounded by Elizabeth I in 1560, it is the only ancient school to remain on its original site in central London. The school is centred around Little Dean’s Yard and includes notable architecture such as the 14th-century College Hall. It provides a liberal education that encourages independent thought and academic rigour. Facilities include the 13-acre Vincent Square playing fields and a modern sports centre. Girls are currently admitted to the Sixth Form.
Earlscliffe is an independent, co-educational sixth-form boarding school located in Folkestone, Kent. Housed in a Victorian building dating from 1870, the school is situated in the town's West End, close to the sea and the Leas promenade. Earlscliffe provides a personalised education for students aged 15 to 19, with a curriculum focused on A-levels and university foundation programmes. The academic approach is defined by small class sizes and a system of weekly progress testing. Now part of Dukes Education, the school supports a diverse, international community of students.
Benenden School is an independent boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18, situated within the 250-acre Hemsted Park estate near Cranbrook, Kent. Founded in 1923, the school is centred on Hemsted House, a Victorian mansion built in the 1860s. Its educational approach follows a 'Complete Education' model, which integrates academic study with professional skills and personal development. Facilities include a dedicated science centre, a professional-standard theatre, and a music school with a concert hall. The expansive grounds accommodate a variety of activities, including lacrosse, hockey, and equestrian sports.