Why did CIS start a bilingual programme and why was it important to the school?

At CIS we believe language shapes more than how students communicate. It shapes how they think, connect, and see the world. That’s why we created our bilingual programme 12 years ago as an additional option for families who want their children to explore learning in two languages. It opens doors to new ways of thinking, new ways of connecting, and new ways of growing.

Bilingual education reflects who we are as a school. We are a world renowned IB school that is globally minded, locally rooted, and committed to preparing students to belong anywhere, think creatively, and dream without limits.

How has bilingual education strengthened our community over the years - among students, families, and teachers?

Bilingual education has strengthened our community by creating meaningful connections across students, families, and teachers.

For students, learning in two languages builds confidence, curiosity, and empathy, helping them develop a strong sense of identity and respect for different cultures. They learn to communicate thoughtfully, collaborate across differences, and see the world from multiple perspectives.

For families, bilingual education fosters a sense of belonging and partnership. Families feel seen, valued, and included in the learning journey, knowing that their language, culture, and experiences are respected and celebrated within our school.

For teachers, bilingual education encourages collaboration, reflection, and professional growth. Educators work closely across languages and disciplines, sharing expertise and learning from one another to design thoughtful, inclusive learning experiences.

Together, we’ve built a community at CIS where everyone belongs, learns, and thrives. 

What innovations in teaching and learning have had the biggest influence on how our bilingual programme has evolved?

The innovations that have shaped our bilingual programme go beyond curriculum or tools, they reflect how we design learning and teaching.

We value both languages equally and use them as windows into culture, helping students understand the world from multiple perspectives.

Learning is transdisciplinary, connecting concepts across subjects and languages, while also developing students’ bicognitive abilities - the skill to think deeply and creatively in two languages.

By combining cultural understanding, integrated learning, and bilingual thinking, we’ve created a programme that grows with our students and inspires them to explore, reflect, and reach higher.

Bilingual education reflects who we are as a school. As a world-renowned IB school, we are globally minded, locally rooted, and committed to preparing students to belong anywhere, think creatively, and dream without limits.

We believe language shapes more than how students communicate. It shapes how they think, connect, and see the world. That belief is why we launched our bilingual programme 12 years ago.

Together, we’ve built a CIS community where everyone belongs, learns, and thrives.