The British School of Bahrain (BSB) is investing more than half a million dinars in upgrading its facilities at its infant school in its complex in Hamala.
Executives at the award-winning school, part of Inspired, a UK-based group boasting international schools on four continents, say the ongoing investment is keeping true to its ethos of putting the child at the centre of everything they do.
The development plan, called Project Tifl (the Arabic word for ‘child’), which boasts an investment of more than BD600,000, has been split into three phases.
“It is wonderful to see Project Tifl taking shape and it is a very exciting time to be part of BSB,” said the school’s executive headmaster, John Maguire.
The first phase, completed in December, focused on transforming outdoor learning environments and work is now concentrating on the second phase of upgrading the nursery and reception classrooms, bathrooms and corridors.
“Starting education at an early age has been shown to give children a significant advantage over their peers, so it is great to see so many parents enrolling their children in BSB’s Early Years and they are sharing the excitement of the new development,” he added.
“Our philosophy is always to have an entire family on one campus and that’s what parents love about BSB.
“The school has very ambitious plans for renovation and redevelopment of its campus in Hamala, including imminent expansion.”
According to Mr Maguire, Phase 2 of the project should be completed by August using an Italian design company to renovate every inch of the BSB infant school with bespoke Italian furniture, Scandinavian ceilings and ‘the best craftsmanship of schooling in Bahrain’.
The designers aim to create ‘inspirational bespoke designs’ for each classroom that reflect the Reggio Emilia approach, an educational philosophy and pedagogy focused on preschool and primary education.
The model focuses heavily on social collaboration, encouraging children to work in groups and develop knowledge through communicating with others.
“The designs from Italy are breath-taking and will revolutionise our already outstanding teaching and learning at BSB,” said Mr Maguire.
“Every aspect of the learning environment has been designed by experts taking into account lighting, toilets, acoustics and furniture. We are confident that our BSB infant school classrooms will reflect the outstanding teaching already going on within them.”
The third phase, which will be completed by 2024, will involve the entire renovation of the Year 1 and Year 2 classrooms and corridors, including the BSB Arabic Hub and Sports Hall.
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