Having opened its doors in 2004, AMA International School Bahrain boasts a fully equipped educational environment with teachers and staff wholeheartedly dedicated to nurturing, encouraging and inspiring learners. Employing the American curriculum in all areas of study, AMAISB uses inquiry-based, hands-on teaching processes and learning strategies to mould its students. Additionally, extra-curricular activities offered encourage the exploration of interests, allow for social interaction with those of similar interests, and contribute to the building of professional and leadership skills. The institute promotes exceptionally high standards of education while also preparing students for the real world – a changing, interdependent world, to which they must be capable of adapting.
In August 2016, AMA International School Bahrain started its Council of International Schools (CIS) membership application. The CIS is a leader in school evaluation and accreditation worldwide which focuses on student learning and global citizenship.
Currently, the CIS community includes 717 schools, 570 colleges and universities, and 112 countries.
Christine Bayliss, the appointed CIS school support and evaluation officer of AMAISB, carried out the membership evaluation in a two-day visit to the school in January, 2018. Part of the visit aimed to assess alignment of school documentation, and the organisation’s practice in conducting student, teacher, parent, support staff, school leaders’ and school board of directors’ interviews. Additionally, on-site and classroom observations were assessed and documents reviewed.
She cited positive findings in the AMAISB membership visit and appreciated the school’s readiness in undertaking work on the preparatory report for accreditation. She identified the key strengths of AMAISB, stating that the entire school community is actively committed to living up to the school’s mission and vision. Also noted was the board’s sound financial management which has led to thoughtful and planned expansion of the facilities and resources, enabling the school to grow.
The collaborative spirit, trust and familial essence plays a large part in the longevity of service to the school by the faculty and staff. Care and commitment provide an attractive, welcoming, safe and well-maintained learning and working environment for students and teachers. Teachers are also provided with professional growth opportunities and in-service training.
The school having been awarded CIS membership, AMAISB director Marietta S Sicat thanked Christine Bayliss for the feedback indicating that it will serve as a springboard for the accreditation they now hope to receive, following a preparatory visit in November 2018. She emphasised the importance of the visit as this will make way for further benefits to the school and its students in future.
