Colombo International School

Colombo International School is a non-denominational institution that promotes an inclusive atmosphere where every child is valued. It emphasizes a holistic education that balances academic rigour with pastoral care, aiming to nurture students into confident, disciplined, and independent learners. The school's motto is to ensure that "ambition is translated into achievement."

The school delivers the UK curriculum from Nursery through to the Sixth Form, preparing students for IGCSE and A Level examinations. The academic structure is divided into Infant, Junior, and Senior sections, with the Senior section covering Intermediate (Years 7-11) and Sixth Form (Years 12-13). The Sixth Form curriculum includes an Enrichment Programme and specialized preparation for university entrance exams such as the BMAT, UKCAT, LNAT, and IELTS.

The school has a strong record of academic achievement, with alumni attending prestigious institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Princeton, and the London School of Economics. Graduates primarily pursue studies in medicine, engineering, economics, business management, and law. The school provides dedicated university and career guidance, including specific support for UK, US, Canadian, and Australian university applications.

The school maintains a staff-to-student ratio of approximately 1:9, allowing teachers to work with small groups or individuals outside of timetabled lessons. A specialized branch of the English Department provides a Supportive Literacy programme for students requiring additional language assistance. Additionally, a pastoral system ensures each student receives academic and personal support from their class teacher during daily tutoring sessions.

Admission to the school is available throughout the year for students aged 2 ½ to 18. The process involves an assessment in English and Mathematics, followed by a review of previous school reports and an informal interview.

The academic year is divided into three terms. For the 2026/2027 academic year, the first term runs from 28th August to 11th December 2026, the second term from 7th January to 31st March 2026, and the third term from 22nd April to 10th July 2026.

The campus in Cinnamon Gardens features purpose-built classroom blocks, specialist ICT and science laboratories, and a comprehensive library. The auditorium complex includes a 700-seat theatre, a sixth-form teaching area, and an examination hall. Sports facilities include a 25-metre outdoor swimming pool, an indoor training pool, and a sports ground with a pavilion.

Students are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of activities, including the arts, clubs, societies, and Model United Nations. The school maintains a diverse sports programme covering athletics, badminton, basketball, cricket, netball, rugby, soccer, swimming, and tennis, with teams competing at local and international levels.