

British Embassy School Ankara
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
The British Embassy School Ankara (BESA) is a co-educational, inclusive international school serving approximately 220 students aged 3 to 16 from over 30 countries. It provides a well-rounded education based on the National Curriculum of England within a nurturing and diverse community.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school follows a philosophy inspired by the belief that the mind is a fire to be kindled rather than a vessel to be filled, focusing on nurturing well-rounded individuals who are critical thinkers and lifelong learners. It emphasises British Values and a holistic approach that balances academic rigour with personal and social development, aiming to cultivate global citizens who are kind, focused, and bold.
Programmes
The school follows the National Curriculum of England from Nursery through to Year 11, enriched by the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) during the first three years of secondary education. As a Cambridge-affiliated school, it offers iGCSE qualifications in Years 10 and 11, utilising a thematic approach to learning that integrates core subjects like English and Mathematics with international curricula.
Outcomes
Students consistently achieve strong results in external examinations, with over 70% meeting or exceeding expected standards in core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science. The school is preparing its first cohort of students for iGCSE qualifications, with examinations scheduled for the summer of 2026.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides tailored resources and programmes for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to ensure they receive the necessary support to thrive. Additionally, the curriculum and teaching approaches are designed to challenge and extend more able students through enrichment and deeper learning opportunities.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does British Embassy School Ankara offer?
- British Embassy School Ankara offers National Curriculum (England) and IGCSE.
- What ages does British Embassy School Ankara teach?
- British Embassy School Ankara enrolls students aged 3 to 16.
- What accreditations does British Embassy School Ankara hold?
- British Embassy School Ankara holds accreditations including COBIS and Cambridge International.
- Is British Embassy School Ankara co-educational?
- British Embassy School Ankara is a co-ed school.
- Where is British Embassy School Ankara located?
- British Embassy School Ankara is an international school in Ankara, Türkiye.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The school manages admissions through a dedicated process, with information and application details available on its website. Prospective families are encouraged to contact the school office to schedule a visit or inquire about the enrollment process.
Calendar
The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer. Each term includes a half-term break, with additional holidays for winter, Easter, and local observances such as Seker Bayrami and Kurban Bayrami.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus features a dedicated outdoor learning environment in the heart of Ankara, which includes private woods for imaginative play, sports and ball game areas, and specialised outdoor learning classrooms. The school also operates a Forest School programme that provides hands-on, natural learning experiences for students.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a variety of leadership opportunities, including an elected School Council for students in Year 3 and above, and the selection of Head and Assistant Head Students. These roles involve representing the school at events, liaising with leadership, and collaborating on initiatives to improve student well-being and school life.

William PhelpsHeadteacherWilliam Phelps is the Headteacher of the British Embassy School Ankara. He leads the school's educational vision and is responsible for guiding students to become global citizens.
Katie VincentDeputy Head
Stuart DowningDeputy Head
Ozlem ElginBusiness Manager
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National Curriculum (England)
IGCSE
COBIS