BIFS is accredited through
BIFS is authorized to offer the courses and examinations of
ABRSM Associated Boards of the Royal Schools of Music
BIFS is a member of
EARCOS East Asia Regional Council of Schools
Korea Council of Overseas Schools
OUR GUIDING STATEMENTS Vision Our students will develop and pursue their passions, be successful and contribute to a positive global future.
Mission We are a diverse, supportive and dynamic international school that inspires and challenges students to explore, discover and thrive in the global community to which we belong.
We Believe · Students are to be at the center of all that we do. · Education is the shared responsibility of our entire community. · In being an independent non-denominational international family school. · In being unified and respectful in our diversity. · In providing the very best inquiry based, relevant, and experiential education for each student. · Students are to give back through community service.
4 ,5 Welcome to BIFS! Welcome to an incredibly warm and inviting community of inquiring learners and the Busan International Foreign School family, a place where ALL students have the opportunity to explore, discover, thrive and become the global citizens of tomorrow! We are a school that is "united in our diversity, and thriving in our individuality." Thank you for your interest in our school. It is my hope that by exploring and learning about our quality academic programs and the comprehensive activities we offer, you will come to know our vibrant and innovative school. BIFS, formerly known as International School of Busan, was established in 1983, and has a long and distinguished history of serving the international expatriate community in and around the Busan area. In the summer of 2010, BIFS moved to our current state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility, built by the Busan Metropolitan City, which supports our comprehensive approach to international education. We pride ourselves in personalized inquiry-based education experiences for all learners in a nurturing and inclusive environment. Our goal is to provide our students with a high quality education that will equip and enable them to acquire the attributes of the IB learner profile and to gain entrance to and succeed at the finest international universities around the world. To this end, we strive to provide a nurturing and rich educational climate that is committed to developing our students academically, socially, emotionally and ethically. BIFS is the leader and the school of choice for quality international education in south east Korea! As a testament to its quality and commitment to a truly international education for all students, BIFS has received authorization from the International Baccalaureate Organization to provide three IB programs: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP). Additionally, BIFS is accredited by the Western Association for Schools and Colleges (WASC) and Council of International Schools (CIS). Our families describe BIFS as a “warm and welcoming community” and a “family school.” I invite you to come and discover for yourself the rich and exciting educational opportunities we provide for all learners as you seek to explore, discover, thrive and belong to an international community that is committed to making a difference - the BIFS difference!
Kevin Baker Head of School
HEAD OF SCHOOL MESSAGE
INTRODUCTION
Established in 1983 by a group of international families and companies, BIFS has grown to support the continued development of foreign investment in
BIFS is located on the edge of Busan, South Korea’s second largest city, which is also Korea’s most popular tourist destination with wonderful beaches and hills only minutes away from the school.
the Busan area. It was the first school in Korea to begin authorization towards the IBPYP, the first school to use the International School Assessment tests from the Australian Council for Educational Research, the first to introduce a design technology program, the first to offer the qualifications from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and was the first to achieve dual accreditation from two independent organizations: the Council of International Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
6 ,7 We offer classes for children from the age of two years old, when they can enter our Playgroup, to Grade 12, the gateway to university entrance.
The school is organized into 3 divisions: The Elementary School The Middle School The High School
Each division has its own expectations but the close cooperation between them means that children are able to progress easily through each program as they grow and mature. With classes no larger than 20 and with a teacherstudent ratio of approximately 1:7, there is a genuine interest in the progress and welfare of each individual student. Families come from all over the world and BIFS is proud of its international mix of students. We believe that it is important to be united in our diversity, which promotes a sense of belonging within our school community. Our teaching staff also reflects our international diversity, having been recruited from all over the world including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Spain, New Zealand, Chile, the Philippines, Venezuela, Bulgaria, France, Japan, Singapore, South Africa and Korea. This, along with the international curriculum, creates a great learning environment. BIFS is a not-for-profit school that is served by a volunteer Board of Governors, elected every two years from the parents and members of the local community. This ensures that all decisions are made for the benefit of students.
CAMPUS
BIFS has a purpose-built facility that provides inspiring spaces for student learning.
BIFS was built by the Busan Metropolitan City to expand the educational opportunities for expatriate families in the region. BIFS is committed to continued development to meet the needs of the students. The BIFS campus covers 30,000 square meters and includes:
Classrooms for all ages | 4 fully equipped science labs 3 computer rooms | 3 art rooms | 3 libraries Music rooms and music practice rooms | Design Technology rooms Assembly rooms | Cafeteria | Large gymnasium | Tennis court Soccer field | Running track | Playgrounds for all ages
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CATERING
The quality and selection of the catering at BIFS is world-class.
BIFS is proud to have one of Busan’s top chefs to lead the catering team. Having previously been the Head Chef at one of the city’s 5-star hotels and having been the personal chef for Presidents George Bush and Vladimir Putin when they visited, there is no doubting his experience. With a menu that includes a range of hot meals, a salad bar, fruit and sandwich options, there is a great selection for students of all ages.
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TRANSPORTATION BIFS draws students from all over the south east of Korea. As a result, our buses travel long distances each day to carry our students to and from the campus. In the afternoon, with the wide range of activities in the after school programs, we operate bus routes at two different times in order to provide the best possible service.
BIFS provides safe and personalized transportation solutions.
CURRICULUM
International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) Offered for children aged 3 to 11, from Preschool to Grade 5
Our Philosophy: Approaches to Teaching To empower our staff in exemplary teaching - Student-centered - Inquiry-based - Focus on conceptual understanding - Inclusion of both local and global contexts - Promotes teamwork and collaboration - Explores differentiation - Assessment informs teaching and planning - Use of technology - Developes independent and lifelong learners
Our Philosophy: Approaches to Learning To develope life-long and transferable skills - Thinking Skills - Research Skills - Communication Skills - Self-management Skills - Social Skills
Transdisciplinary Program To provide an engaging, relevant, challenging and significant learning experience, focusing on issues that cross subject areas. - Science - Social Studies - Mathematics - Languages - The Arts: Visual and Performing - Physical, Social and Personal Education Our Support Services To assist all students in maximizing their potential - English as an Additional Language - Learning Support - Co-curricular Activities - Instrumental Lessons - Counselling
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International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) Offered for students from Grades 6-10 The IB Middle Years Programme encourages students to embrace and understand the connections between subjects studied at school and the real world. It provides the opportunity for students to become critical and reflective thinkers, innovative problem solvers and confident learners.
Through the MYP, BIFS: Encourages international mindedness while recognizing the importance of maintaining each student's foundation language and sense of their own culture. - Encourages a positive attitude to learning by challenging students to solve problems, show creativity and resourcefulness and participate actively in communities with which they identify. - Reflects real life by providing a framework that allows students to see connections to subjects studied. - Supports the development of communication skills to encourage inquiry, understanding and language acquisition. - Emphasizes through the learner profile, the development of the whole student.
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Key Concepts The MYP consists of eight subject groups, each guided by three to four key concepts. These broad, organizing, powerful ideas have relevance beyond just the subject group. They are a powerful tool of inquiry, used to create “big ideas” that are recognizable in, and applicable to, real-life “global contexts”. Global Concepts Teaching and learning in the MYP involves understanding concepts in context. All effective learning takes place when the student identifies with the learning or sees its relevance. Approaches to Learning (ATL) ATL skills represent general and subject-specific learning skills that the student will develope and apply during the program and beyond. Approaches to Teaching (ATT) MYP teachers deliver the curriculum through inquiry, concepts, differentiation, contexts and collaboration.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) The gold standard qualification for universities around the world.
16 ,17 The IB DP is academically challenging and is widely recognized as the best preparation for university success as it: - Provides a balance of subject breadth and depth - Encourages international mindedness - Developes a positive attitude to learning - Developes styles of learning required for future studies - Has rigorous external assessment - Emphasises the development of the whole student IB Diploma students study six subjects, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level. In addition, there are three core requirements of: - A 4,000 word extended essay with independent research - Theory of Knowledge – a course designed to encourage students to reflect on the nature of knowledge - Creativity, Action, Service – a requirement to actively learn from the experience of doing real tasks beyond the classroom. As an alternative, students can tailor their own program by selecting individual DP courses at levels to suit their own needs.
SPORTS
BIFS provides a wide range of competitive opportunities for all students. Go Bears!
18 ,19 BIFS offers a large gymnasium, tennis court, full size soccer field, a 100m running track, long and triple jump sand pit and two outdoor basketball courts. These facilities, along with dedicated coaches, allow students to enjoy a wide range of sports for all ages and for all abilities. Students can also represent their school or their ‘house’ through an ever-growing array of inter-school and intra-school competitive and friendly matches. We are members of two activity conferences, the Southern Korea Activities Conference (SKAC) and the Korea International Schools Activities Conference (KISAC). We have three sporting seasons : Fall Elementary & Middle School Soccer / Middle and High School Cross Country / High School Volleyball Winter Middle School Volleyball / High School Basketball Spring Elementary and Middle School Basketball / High School Soccer There are also opportunities to participate in Tennis, Badminton, Table Tennis and Track & Field, along with specialty athletics organized trips that may include Skiing, Sailing and even Scuba Diving.
THE ARTS AND TECHNOLOGY Innovation, creativity, expression and design are all hallmarks of the BIFS experience.
BIFS prides itself on being able to offer a wide range of learning opportunities for our students. A major part of this are the arts and technology programs. The visual arts utilize the skills of specialist teachers from the beginning of Elementary School. With dedicated art rooms, the students are able to experience different techniques using a wide range of materials and forms, from oils and water colors through to ceramics and photography. Drama is offered through the various productions that take place each year. Whether it is a small play by Elementary School or a Shakespearean adaptation, students have the opportunity to express themselves in a number of ways.
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BIFS offers an innovative and challenging Design Technology program. Starting in the Middle School, students engage in practical activities that cover electronics, robotics, technical drawing, structures and forces while working in wood, acrylics, metal and design foam. Students use a variety of CAD / CAM programs and can produce work of high quality using the laser cutters and other machinery. The ICT department provides a structured, developmental program of computer usage and programming skills. Beginning at Grade 1, students have the support of specialist teachers who plan in close collaboration with their subject teachers to make the most of the learning opportunities that new technologies provide. The school has three computer labs and research centers in Middle School and High School, along with laptops and iPads that are available throughout the school, connected to a campus-wide wifi network. In the Middle and High School, we operate a 1:1 laptop program. The majority of classrooms have the advantage of Smartboards that allow teachers to facilitate a learning environment that is both stimulating and interactive.
MUSIC
BIFS is deeply committed to providing rich opportunities in music.
Music plays an important role in the enrichment of students’ lives. Our music facilities include teaching suites, separate practice rooms and two performance halls. Students at BIFS enjoy a well-rounded and creative music curriculum that is complemented by an array of after school ensembles. Our students have the opportunity to be actively involved in Orchestra, upper elementary class choirs, MHS Choir, String Ensembles and Beginning Band. The Music Department organizes a number of performances throughout the year at school, in the local community and overseas. Students who are keen on strengthening their music education are able to sit for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music's (ABRSM) practical and theory music exams on our campus twice a year.
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COCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
BIFS provides a variety of experiences beyond the classroom for our students to explore.
For every age, BIFS offers a broad selection of activities beyond our curriculum. Activities offered may include such options as :
National Honor Society | Model UN | Lego Robotics | Sailing | Taekwondo | Student Council | Softball | Ceramics | Gymnastics | Ballet | Chess | Art Designs: collage, models, sculpture | Guitar | Kumdo | Netball | Knitting | Print Making | Junior Chefs | Hanja Calligraphy | Handicrafts | Ultimate Frisbee | Debate
24 ,25 We actively participate in the Korean Speech Competition, the local and national English Spelling Bee, Model UN, and the annual Busan English Debate Championship. We have also developed a sailing program with the Busan Sailing Center. In addition, students have the opportunity to learn a wide range of musical instruments. These lessons take place during the day and after school.
Piano | Violin | Voice | Cello | Music Theory | Saxophone | Clarinet | Oboe Flute | Guitar (electric and acoustic) | Trumpet | French Horn | Trombone Drums | Singing | Hip-Hop | Junior/Senior Strings | Senior Orchestra Drama | Dance | Junior/Senior Choir
SERVICE
BIFS students seek to make a difference by giving back to the global community to which they belong.
BIFS is strongly committed to community service and encourages Elementary through High School students to actively participate in a wide varity of projects and fund raising activities within our own community. Many of these projects are tied to concepts students are learning in their classes. We believe our students gain a great deal from giving their time to helping others and becoming active members of their community. In our Middle School MYP program, we incorporate community and service into the classroom. The goal is to allow students to make connections between the curriculum and the world around them. When these connections are made, and a level of service is completed, students will head into High School understanding the role they can play in their community. In High School we follow the Community, Action, and Service (CAS) program set by the IB. Service is a component to the CAS program that allows students to get involved with activities that interest them, but also pushes them to step outside their comfort zones. BIFS has service requirements for all graduates.
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Student ownership over this service program is crucial, as the service learning cycle begins and ends with the students. Our student-led clubs are responsible for creating service opportunities. The school offers both local and international service opportunities for the students. Recent international trips include Borneo, Nepal, Laos and Cambodia. Some of our local projects include: raising money for Busan Abandoned Pet Sanctuary, running the Kids Corner at the annual Busan International Women’s Association (BIWA) Christmas Bazaar, serving lunch at the Haeundae Soup Kitchen and collecting socks for the Happy Feet and Something Sweet event at the soup kitchen. Our students also tutor and help at orphanages. In addition, both the Harvest Festival (collection of food for the Isaac House Children's Home) and the Angel Tree (collection of holiday presents for children in orphanages) are community service projects in which the whole school participates.
COMMUNITY
BIFS is a community school that celebrates and is united in our diversity.
The BIFS Parent Teacher Association (PTA) comprises BIFS parents and staff who support and promote our school community. All Parents, Guardians and Teachers of BIFS students are members of the PTA. The PTA's support is essential to the school, giving parents and staff an opportunity to show their dedication to making BIFS a unique and energetic, family-oriented school which values and celebrates diversity. Parent/staff involvement in the PTA includes monthly parent coffees, volunteering during fundraisers, serving as committee leaders, participating and planning in school events such as Ice Cream Socials, Fall Family Festival, International Day, Teachers' Appreciation Week and more.
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GRADUATION
With the range of programs and the level of support provided, BIFS students are ready to continue their education at colleges and universities around the world. The school offers three separate paths towards graduation. BIFS High School Diploma, IB Courses, IB Diploma
Since its establishment, BIFS has been recognized worldwide as a well-respected college preparatory school. Over 90% of our graduates matriculate directly to university, while the remaining graduates complete national service commitments, pursue their dream careers or plan a meaningful gap year. Upon completion of the BIFS graduation requirements, BIFS graduates receive a BIFS High School Diploma and for those students that choose to pursue the full International Baccalaureate program, the prestigious IB Diploma. BIFS is committed to providing quality personal support for each and every student as they explore their post-secondary options. Our higher education support services include individual and group counseling to provide students with opportunities for self-discovery, work experience research, and academic and vocational decision-making. Our staff are dedicated to helping students choose and gain admission to colleges, universities and other institutions of further education, or with gap year planning that is based on the “right fit” or “best match” for each student’s individual interests and aspirations. Other higher education support activities include guest speakers, university representative visits to our campus, preparation workshops, newsletter articles, parent coffees and higher education testing services.
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BIFS graduates are accepted to reputable colleges and universities worldwide. Some examples include: Asia: Waseda University Australia / New Zealand: Challenger Institute of Technology, Curtin College, Notre Dame University Europe: Aarhus University, BI Norwegian School of Management, Delft University of Technology, Ipag Business School, Les Roches International School of Hotel Management, Lillebaelt Academy of Professional Higher Education, Tilburg University, Universita Bocconi, University of Bordeaux, University of Paris- Sorbonne, University of Szeged North America: Berklee College of Music, Boston University, California State Polytechnic University, Colorado State University, Cornell University, Florida Atlantic University, Illinois Institute of Technology, Lawrence University, Long Beach State, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Mount Allison University, Northeastern University, Parsons The New School of Design, Pennsylvania State University - Erie, Pennsylvania State University - University Park, Portland State University, Pratt Institute, Purdue University, Queen’s University, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Savannah College of Art & Design, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Texas A&M University, University of California - San Diego, University of Cincinnati, University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign, University of Massachusetts, University of Minnesota - Pomona, University of Oregon, University of Wisconsin - Lacrosse United Kingdom: Brunel University, Glasgow Caledonian University, University of Bath, University of Essex, University of Exeter, University of Glasgow, University of London, University of York
50 Gijang-daero, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan, 46081, Korea Ph : +82 51 742 3332 Fax : +82 51 742 3375 Email : enquiries@bifskorea.org Web : www.bifskorea.org