British International School Inaugurates New Campus in Al Waha

Riyadh – Asdaf News:

British International School Riyadh (BISR) announced the official opening of its newest campus, Al Waha, marking the school’s seventh campus in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, here on Wednesday.

The opening of BISR Al Waha is an event hailed as an exciting new chapter in the school’s four-decade history in Riyadh.  The ceremony was attended by H.E. Stephen Hitchen, the British Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, distinguished guests from the Ministry of Education, heads from Saudi Arabia’s leading schools, key councils and advisory boards, key contributors and partners, and the BISR board of governors.

The opening ceremony began with The Saudi traditional Al Ardha, followed by speeches from BISR officials and captivating musical performances by BISR students at the school’s auditorium.

BISR Al Waha is the realization of a long-held strategic ambition and represents a significant investment in the future of the school’s community and its commitment to educational excellence. It signals confidence in the future, a direct investment in BISR’s students, and a strong belief in the collective potential of the community.

Serving 2,000 students aged 3–18, BISR Al Waha offers an excellent educational experience under the leadership of Principal Karen Jones, a highly experienced educator with a proven track record both in the UK and other international schools in the region.

Students are already benefitting from an environment that cultivates academic excellence, creativity, and overall development.Highlights of the new campus include:
Expansive Classrooms – Adaptable, flexible learning spaces designed to support academic and well-being programmes.

Performing Arts Facilities – A 750-seat auditorium, ensemble rooms, and drama
studios designed to inspire collaboration and a love of performance.

Specialised Laboratories – State-of-the-art science, food technology, and design labs that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving.

Aquatic Facilities – An 8 lane, 25m swimming pool with Colorado timing system and a learner pool for swimming development and water-based activities. Outstanding Sports Facilities – Two sports halls, tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts, a dance studio, climbing walls, and a fully equipped gym.

Karen Jones, Principal of BISR Al Waha, stated “We are absolutely delighted to have opened the doors to BISR’s 7th campus, Al Waha. This is the next stage in our long history and an exciting new chapter for all. Albeit a state-of-the-art facility, a school, however, is just a building without our children and young people. Hearing their voices in the corridors, the classrooms and our shared spaces is what brings the school to life. It is now a living, breathing, inspiring place of learning full of energy and focus. As I reflect on the journey to our new campus, I would like to pay tribute to the strong relationships that underpin our whole school community. I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has come together to get us to where we are today – students, staff, families and partner organizations have all played a part . Here’s to a year of growth and seeing everyone flourish in our new space.”

Nick Prince, Chair of the BISR Board of Governors, stated “The success of this campus will not be measured by its design, but by the difference it makes in the lives of children. The responsibility now lies with the school’s exceptional staff and leadership to transform the building into a dynamic environment dedicated to learning, belonging, and ambition.”

Speaking to Asdaf News, Jeremy Newton, Director of Schools at BISR, said: “Since 1979, we have proudly served the expatriate community in Saudi Arabia, dedicated to delivering the finest British education within the Kingdom. Today, we are announcing the Grand Opening of our brand new Al Waha Campus, marking the launch of Riyadh’s largest and most modern educational facility, currently with nearly 2,000 students from foundation grade through year 13, and committed to paving their way to the world’s top universities.

“Our diverse student body, spanning seven campuses across the Kingdom, is a testament to our international character. We currently host a vibrant mix of nationalities, with approximately 52% British passport holders and 48% representing other countries. Our Diplomatic Quarter campus, in particular, stands as a truly international hub.

Next week, we will celebrate our annual International Week, a cherished tradition where students proudly showcase the diverse cultures, customs, and traditions of their home countries through national flags, attire, and cuisine—a powerful event that beautifully unites our community. While our curriculum is proudly British, we have meticulously adapted it to resonate with the rich culture of the Kingdom. Importantly, our admissions process is not academically selective; we warmly accept all students, recognizing the value in diverse backgrounds and ensuring opportunity for everyone.”