Discovery Bay International School

The school is guided by the core values of Courage, Respect, and Integrity, aiming to empower students to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. It fosters an inclusive, inquiry-based environment that celebrates diversity and encourages students to be resilient, curious, and socially aware. The school places a high priority on student safety and wellbeing, ensuring all children learn in a secure and nurturing atmosphere.

The school follows the English National Curriculum, adapted for its international context, with Mandarin Chinese taught throughout all stages. The Early Years Foundation Stage (ages 3–5) focuses on play-based learning, while the Primary School employs an inquiry-based approach. The Secondary School offers a curated range of subjects including UK GCSEs, International GCSEs, and vocational BTEC courses, with International A Level and BTEC options available at the dedicated Sixth Form campus.

The school prioritises personalised learning by tracking individual student progress and identifying specific next steps for development. Small class sizes allow teachers to understand the needs of every child and maintain strong home–school links. A range of extra support is available to help students pursue their interests and meet new challenges.

Applications are accepted throughout the year with no set deadline. The process requires submission of academic records, identification documents, and visa information, followed by an assessment and an interview with a member of the senior leadership team. Priority is given to siblings of current students, returning families, and those holding a Premium School Development Levy (PSDL).

The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn (August to December), Spring (January to March), and Summer (April to June). The calendar includes scheduled breaks such as a half-term holiday in October, a Chinese New Year break in February, and various public holidays. The school also designates specific days for teacher professional development and a "Week Without Walls" programme.

The school operates across three campuses in Discovery Bay, featuring an artificial turf pitch, a heated open-air swimming pool, a netball court, and a covered sports area. Academic facilities include state-of-the-art science laboratories, dedicated Art rooms, Music and Drama suites, and a purpose-built Globe Theatre. The campus also houses an extensive library with over 20,000 items, a Discovery Centre, a roof garden, and multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, including two Forest Schools.

Extracurricular activities are included in the school fees and are designed to add value to the student journey. The programme encourages students to pursue their strengths and interests, fostering independence and confidence. Opportunities for student service and voice are also integrated into school life to promote a deeper understanding of the world.