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Taught languages Norwegian, French, German, Spanish
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, STEM
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Preschool, Primary School, Secondary School
Introduction
BISS is an IB World School with three campuses serving ages 1 to 16 in Stavanger, Norway. Preschool operates at Gauselbakken 105, while BISS Gausel (Primary & Secondary) is at 107 and BISS Sentrum (Primary & Secondary) at Tanke Svilands gate 73. The school offers the IB Continuum, with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) on the Gausel and Sentrum campuses, and a Diploma Programme (DP) for older students. English is the language of instruction across the IB programmes, while Norwegian is integrated across the curriculum in both primary and secondary levels, with national testing at PYP5, MYP2 and MYP3. Preschool follows the Norwegian Framework Plan and supports English development in a multilingual environment. Learning is inquiry-based and aims to foster intercultural understanding and international mindedness. The school operates as an international day school, originally founded in 1977 and restructured in 2019 into three campuses.
British International School of Stavanger has 730 pupils, instruction in English.
Location
BISS has three campuses in Stavanger, Norway: BISS Gausel at Gauselbakken 107, 4032 Stavanger; BISS Preschool at Gauselbakken 105, 4032 Stavanger; and BISS Sentrum at Tanke Svilands gate 73, 4007 Stavanger.
Stages
BISS Preschool provides early years education at Gauselbakken 105. BISS Gausel operates primary and secondary IB programmes, and BISS Sentrum provides primary and secondary IB programmes.
Type
IB World School operating three campuses (Preschool, Gausel, and Sentrum); international day school.
Additional learning support
Pastoral care emphasises inclusion with additional learning needs supported by individualized learning plans; inclusive environment with collaboration between families, staff and specialists to provide the right support.
Bus service
The school does not operate a school bus service. There are nearby bus stops for students. Eligible PY1–MYP5 students living at least 4 km from school (2 km for PY1) may receive a 30‑day bus ticket subsidy from the Kommune. Gausel Station is nearby for travel by train, and limited parking with drop‑off areas is available for older students.
Fees
Annual tuition at British International School of Stavanger ranges from NOK 1,000 to NOK 44,800 for 2026/27.
Application and acceptance fees - Preschool application fee: NOK 1,000, payable on entry. - Acceptance fee for all schools: one month's school fees are charged on receipt of the acceptance form; this amount is deducted from the first invoice. If a place is accepted and the child does not attend, the acceptance fee is not refundable.
Tuition fees by year group (annual and per-invoice amounts) - BISS Preschool (100% / 5 day place, 07:30–16:30): NOK 13,200 per year (equivalent to NOK 1,200 per month). A Preschool Snack Programme option is charged separately at NOK 1,650 per year (NOK 150 per month). - BISS Gausel (Primary PYP1–PYP6 and Secondary MYP1–MYP5): NOK 44,800 per annum. The school publishes this as equivalent to NOK 4,073 per month when invoiced over eleven monthly instalments. - BISS Sentrum (Primary and Secondary): NOK 44,800 per annum, presented as NOK 4,073 per month over eleven monthly instalments.
Per-term detail and how to interpret invoice instalments - The school issues invoices in eleven monthly instalments; the per-invoice amount for an annual fee of NOK 44,800 is NOK 4,073 (44,800 ÷ 11). This is the published instalment schedule used for invoicing. - The school does not publish a formal termly invoicing schedule on the fee pages; converting the annual figure into a term amount requires an arithmetic division (for example, dividing the annual fee by three if you prefer a three-term estimate). That conversion is an arithmetic estimate and not an official invoice schedule.
Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices are sent to parents; parents have sole responsibility for payment. Invoicing for school fees is done in eleven monthly instalments. Children who join mid-year are invoiced from the first of the month in which they join, regardless of the child's actual start date during that month. - Withdrawal notice and charge: notice begins from the 1st of the month following submission of the withdrawal form. The withdrawal fee is equivalent to three months' fees at the current rate; if the leaving date is sooner than three months, the full withdrawal fee (equivalent to three months' fees) will be charged. The three months' notice period includes holiday periods.
Boarding fees (if applicable) - There is no boarding provision listed for BISS Preschool, BISS Gausel or BISS Sentrum; the schools operate as day schools (Preschool, Primary and Secondary). No boarding fees are published.
Other costs and optional services - Preschool Snack Programme: NOK 1,650 per year (NOK 150 per month). - After-school care (SFO) at BISS Gausel (PYP1–PYP6): monthly charge for a 100% place is NOK 3,188; monthly charge for a 60% place (three days per week) is NOK 2,194. There is no sibling discount for SFO; refunds are not made for illness or holidays for SFO. - School clothing / uniform: school fees do not cover school clothing. Uniform items are purchased separately from the school's supplier (Trutex Europe) using the school LEA code; parents choose delivery options (ship-to-school or home delivery) and handle returns through the supplier's customer service. Uniform cost is separate and paid to the supplier. - Extra-curricular clubs, school trips and specific course materials: such items may incur additional charges where explicitly arranged; SFO and the Preschool snack programme are examples of such charged services. Specific charges for clubs or trips are published only where applicable.
Refunds and returns - Acceptance fee refund: the acceptance fee (one month's fee) will be deducted from the first invoice and is not refundable if a place is accepted and the child does not attend. - Withdrawal fee: when a pupil leaves, the withdrawal fee equivalent to three months' fees will apply if notice is shorter than three months; the three-month notice period includes holidays. - SFO refunds: refunds are not made for illness or holidays for SFO places. - Uniform returns and refunds: uniform returns and refunds are handled by the uniform supplier (Trutex); the supplier processes refunds through its tracker and bank refunds may take several working days to clear. Parents must follow the supplier's returns process.
Fee payment options and contact for payment queries - The fee pages state that invoices are sent to parents and that parents are responsible for payment, but specific public details of accepted payment methods (for example, bank transfer, card payment options) are not listed on the published fee pages. For queries about reduced payments or accounting matters the published contact is accounting@biss.no; school office email addresses for each campus are also provided for general enquiries.
Summary of key headline figures (annual) - BISS Preschool (100% / 5 day): NOK 13,200 per year; Preschool application fee NOK 1,000; Preschool snack programme NOK 1,650 per year. - BISS Gausel (PYP & MYP): NOK 44,800 per annum (invoiced as NOK 4,073 per month over 11 instalments). - BISS Sentrum (PYP & MYP): NOK 44,800 per annum (invoiced as NOK 4,073 per month over 11 instalments).
Academics
British International School of Stavanger teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP) for students aged 1 to 16.
Curriculum
BISS Gausel and BISS Sentrum are IB World Schools offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Middle Years Programme (MYP). The IB Continuum includes the Diploma Programme (DP) for older students. The language of instruction is English. Norwegian is integrated across the curriculum in both Primary and Secondary, with national testing at PYP5, MYP2 and MYP3. Preschool is integrated with the Norwegian Framework Plan, and English language development is supported within a multilingual environment. Learning is inquiry-based, and the school fosters intercultural understanding and international mindedness.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education) lessons and assemblies complement the curriculum and address how students live in their communities and practice looking after their own wellbeing. The school provides a school nurse who is available for confidential advice on health and emotional wellbeing. The approach recognises each student as a valuable member of the school community and supports the development of self-awareness, resilience, and healthy relationships. Parent involvement is an important part of wellbeing, with regular communications and opportunities for information meetings. Wellbeing is integrated with academic learning to help students become confident, compassionate, and responsible global citizens.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Special Educational Needs (SEN) are addressed. Besides improving academic performance, the aim is to improve students' self-esteem.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English is the language of instruction. All lessons are delivered in English. If a child needs it, additional language support is provided to help them thrive here. For children new to English, teachers and support staff use Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to ensure lessons are accessible at all levels of English proficiency.
Mental Wellbeing
PSHE lessons and assemblies address how students live in their communities and practice looking after their own wellbeing. There is a school nurse available for confidential advice on health and emotional wellbeing. The wellbeing program supports emotional development alongside academic learning and helps students manage emotions and relationships.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding procedures are in place to protect all students. Registering concerns is directed to the Lead Designate for Saf safeguarding at the school. Norwegian law requires safeguarding information to be treated as non-confidential, and reports may lead to a §12 or §8 Action Plan.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions are open for Academic Year 2026-27. All applications for a place at BISS Gausel, BISS Sentrum and BISS Preschool are handled by the Admissions Department, a remote office not located at any of the schools. The Admissions Office handles applications for all three schools via the Admissions portal. Step 1: Create a parent profile and login. The portal requires a parent profile to begin the process. You can manage applications for multiple children and schools from this profile. Separate applications are required for each child and for each school. Step 2: Verify your email address and then log in with the password provided. Verifying ensures you can access the portal and receive updates about your application. You can proceed to complete the application after logging in. Step 3: Complete the application form. You must submit separate applications for each child and for each school. You can save your progress and return to complete the form later. Step 4: Submit your application. Submitting finalizes the application. Once you have submitted, changes are not possible. Step 5: Apply for another school for the same student or another child, by returning to the dashboard. Use the dashboard to initiate additional applications. You can save progress and return to complete any outstanding applications.
Scholarships
From 1 January 2026 BISS Gausel and BISS Sentrum will offer a reduced parent payment option for households with low income. Eligibility is based on low income and you should email accounting@biss.no for further details. Applications for reduction of Preschool fees should be done via Stavanger kommune. For the 2025-26 and 2026-27 periods, deadlines are: by 15 December 2025 for reductions that apply January 2026 to June 2026, and by 30 June 2026 for the 26-27 school year.
FAQs
Where are the three BISS campuses located, and which age range do they serve?
BISS operates three campuses in Stavanger: BISS Preschool at Gauselbakken 105, BISS Gausel (Primary & Secondary) at Gauselbakken 107, and BISS Sentrum (Primary & Secondary) at Tanke Svilands gate 73. The schools serve children from ages 1 to 16, with English as the language of instruction and Norwegian integrated across the curriculum.
What IB programmes are offered at BISS Gausel and BISS Sentrum, and is the Diploma Programme available?
Both BISS Gausel and BISS Sentrum are IB World Schools offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Middle Years Programme (MYP). The Diploma Programme (DP) is available for older students as part of the IB continuum.
Who is the head of school, and how large is the student community?
The Head of School is Fiona Rhodes, and the three campuses together educate around 700 pupils in total.
What are the key tuition fees for preschool and for the IB campuses, and how are invoices structured?
Preschool fees are NOK 13,200 per year (with an optional Preschool Snack Programme at NOK 1,650 per year). For Gausel and Sentrum (PYP/MYP), fees are NOK 44,800 per year, invoiced as NOK 4,073 per month over eleven instalments. Invoices are sent monthly, and the eleven-month structure is the standard billing arrangement.
What is the admissions process to secure a place at BISS, and who handles it?
Applications for BISS Gausel, BISS Sentrum and BISS Preschool are handled by the Admissions Department (a remote office). The process uses an online portal where you create a parent profile, complete separate applications for each child and each school, and submit. For help, contact admissions@biss.no.
Are there any scholarships or fee reductions available, and what are the deadlines?
From 1 January 2026, BISS offers a reduced parent payment option for low-income households (eligibility via email to accounting@biss.no). Reductions for Preschool fees are handled through Stavanger kommune with deadlines of 15 December 2025 for January–June 2026 and 30 June 2026 for the 2026–27 school year.
What does the preschool and school day look like in terms of options and inclusion?
Preschool runs on a full-day schedule at 100% for five days. The curriculum includes Norwegian integration with English language development supported in a multilingual environment, and the broader IB framework is taught in English with Norwegian language integration.
What are the typical yearly fees and the per-term equivalent for invoicing, and are there any additional costs to expect?
Preschool 100%/5 days costs NOK 13,200 per year (plus optional snack). IB campuses cost NOK 44,800 per year, billed as NOK 4,073 per month over 11 instalments. Additional costs can include uniforms (purchased separately), the Preschool Snack Programme, SFO, clubs or trips, and any specific course materials.
What is the school's policy on uniforms and where are they purchased?
A uniform is required across BISS Gausel and BISS Sentrum. Primary students wear a pale blue polo with navy trousers/skirt; secondary students wear a white shirt with a black V-neck sweater, plus black trousers/skirt. Uniforms are purchased from Trutex Europe using LEA codes LEA000132TF (Gausel) or LEA000133TF (Sentrum) and can be shipped to school or home.
What is the status of boarding at BISS?
BISS operates as a day school; there is no boarding provision listed for Preschool, Gausel, or Sentrum.
What facilities are available on the Gausel campus for sports and outdoor learning?
The Gausel campus has three artificial grass pitches, a running track, a basketball court, and a sand volleyball court. Outdoor education takes place in nearby forests and the Gandsfjord, with access to surrounding natural spaces for fieldwork.
What academic facilities and campus layout support primary and secondary learning?
The Lower Building houses the Preschool and younger primary students (PYP 1–2), while the Upper Building houses older primary students (PYP 3–6) and the secondary school, with administrative offices nearby. The two buildings form a single on-site campus supporting learning across primary and secondary.
Can you name some clubs and activities that use BISS facilities, and who runs them?
Clubs and activities are run by external providers and use the school's facilities. Examples include 1st Stavanger Scout Group, Capoeira, Chess Club, Be Creative art club, Cricket Club, and the I'M A MUSICIAN private music academy, among others.
What coding and technology clubs are available, and what do they teach?
YoungCoderz Coding Club runs at BISS, offering programming, robotics and electronics for students from PYP3. They cover Scratch (PYP3–5), Python (Year 6+), and website development, with details available through YoungCoderz.
What cultural and social activities exist for language learning and cultural exchange?
The French Club offers weekly courses for French learners and organises gatherings and cultural events. The British Scouting Overseas group also uses BISS facilities for Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers, promoting leadership and teamwork.
What wellbeing and support services does BISS provide for students and families?
BISS provides PSHE lessons and assemblies focused on wellbeing, plus a school nurse available for confidential health and emotional support. The approach emphasizes self-awareness, resilience and healthy relationships, with regular parent information and involvement.
How does BISS support students with special educational needs and English as an additional language?
SEN support is available through individualized learning plans and an inclusive approach involving families, staff and specialists. EAL support uses Universal Design for Learning to make lessons accessible, with Norwegian integration and language acquisition support as needed.
How is safeguarding managed at BISS, and what protocols are in place?
Safeguarding procedures are in place with a Lead Designate for safeguarding. Norwegian law treats safeguarding information as non-confidential, and reports may lead to an action plan under applicable regulations.
Is there a house system at BISS, and what is its purpose?
Yes, pupils are grouped into houses and wear house-colour PE shirts as part of the PE kit. The house system supports school culture and friendly competition across activities.
What does the uniform policy say about age groups and practical wear for daily activities and PE?
Uniforms are standard across the Gausel and Sentrum campuses, with primary students in pale blue polo shirts and navy bottoms, and secondary students in white shirts and dark knitwear. PE kit is color-coded based on the pupil's house.
