A school can apply for COBIS (Council of British International Schools) membership by following a structured process that involves meeting specific quality assurance criteria, preparing the necessary documentation, and undergoing a review. Below is a comprehensive guide on how schools can navigate the COBIS membership application process, including the different membership routes, current requirements, key benefits, and the latest updates for 2025. COBIS membership is open to high-quality British international schools worldwide.
Schools can pursue several routes to membership, each tailored to their specific circumstances and existing accreditations. The process is designed to ensure that all member schools uphold the rigorous standards and ethos associated with British education.
COBIS Membership Categories
Schools may apply for COBIS membership under different categories depending on their operational status, existing accreditations, and desired level of recognition. Below is a breakdown of the main membership categories:
| Category | Eligibility Criteria | Key Requirements | Typical Fees (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provisional School | Not yet operational; planning phase | Commitment to quality assurance within 1 year | £1,495 + £295 reg. fee |
| Member (Compliance) | Operational; seeks compliance with Standards 1-5 | Self-review, documentation, visit | £3,869 + £310 reg. fee |
| Accredited Member (COBIS) | Operational; meets full Standards 1-10 | Compliance plus additional QA, visit | £8,943 + £310 reg. fee |
| Accredited Member (BSO, CIS, ISI, NEASC, WASC, OEAS) | Successful external accreditation (e.g., BSO, CIS, etc.) within last 5 years | Inspection report, action plan, ethos statement | Varies |
Membership costs and requirements may differ based on the route and the size of the school.
Steps to Apply for COBIS Membership
1. Choose the Appropriate Membership Category
- Provisional School: For schools opening soon, granting early support and recognition.
- Compliance/Accredited: For established schools demonstrating compliance with COBIS standards through self-assessment and external review.
- Accredited by Other Bodies: For schools already accredited by CIS, BSO, ISI, NEASC, WASC, or OEAS, which may allow for streamlined application.
2. Prepare Application Documentation
Typical documentation required for COBIS membership includes:
- Detailed organisation and school information
- Two school-based references
- Signed Code of Conduct
- School development plan
- Action plans addressing specific inspection points
- Outcome letters and reports from external accreditations (where applicable)
- Statement of commitment to British Educational Ethos and Values
3. Complete the Online Application
- Submit an online application form through COBIS. All applications are reviewed by the Membership Department.
- Upload evidence documents demonstrating how the school aligns with COBIS Accreditation and Compliance Standards.
- If applying under a recognised accreditation route, supply the most recent inspection or accreditation reports, action plans, and ethos statement as required.
4. Undergo Review and Quality Assurance Visit
- Schools seeking Member (Compliance) or Accredited Member status are typically visited by COBIS Lead Improvement Partners and Peer Accreditors. The visits range from 3 to 5 days depending on school size.
- For schools applying with external accreditations (e.g., BSO, CIS), the review focuses on submitted inspection reports and documentation.
5. Board Approval and Payment
- The COBIS Board reviews the application and visit findings.
- Once approved, pay the appropriate membership and registration fees.
- Upon confirmation, the school receives access to COBIS member services, events, and resources.
Key Features Evaluated for Membership
COBIS evaluates schools across ten standards, including:
- Leadership and Management
- Student Welfare, Safety, and Safeguarding
- Education and Curriculum Delivery
- Staff Development and Training
- Commitment to British Educational Ethos and Values
- Boarding and Extra-curricular (where applicable)
- Communication, Community, and Parental Involvement
Latest Updates to COBIS Membership Standards (2025)
- Refreshed Accreditation and Compliance Standards: Launched in January 2025, these standards emphasize greater clarity and specificity about the evidence schools must submit.
- Increased Emphasis on DEIJB: There is now a greater focus on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Belonging (DEIJB). Schools are expected to evidence inclusive practices and diverse representation in teaching materials, policies, and curricula.
- Streamlined Process: Requirements have been clarified, making it easier for schools to understand and meet the expectations, ensuring a more transparent application experience.
Benefits of COBIS Membership
- International recognition of British educational quality
- Access to professional development, student competitions, and school improvement resources
- Opportunities for global networking and collaboration
- Support in recruitment, safeguarding, and staff training
- Enhanced reputation among parents, staff, and the wider education community
Common Questions About Applying
What Happens After Application?
- If approved, schools receive a welcome letter and setup information for the COBIS Member Area.
- Schools must agree to work within the COBIS Ethical Code of Practice and Guide to Good Governance.
Can a School Apply if Not Yet Open?
- Yes, “Provisional School” status is designed for schools still in the planning stage, with the expectation that full quality assurance will follow within 12 months.
What if a School Has Existing Accreditation?
- COBIS recognises several leading accreditations (CIS, BSO, ISI, NEASC, WASC, OEAS) as a fast track route to membership, provided current accreditation evidence and an action plan are submitted.
Summary Table: COBIS Membership Application Process
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Select Membership Category | Determine best fit: Provisional, Compliance, Accredited, External Accreditation Route |
| Gather Documentation | Prepare reports, references, compliance evidence, and action plans |
| Submit Application | Use COBIS online platform to submit application and upload evidence |
| Undergo Review/Visit | School visit (if applicable) and document review by COBIS or external accreditors |
| Board Approval & Payment | Final ratification after review and payment of fees |
| Confirmation & Access | Receive welcome, access to member benefits, and COBIS online resources |
Bulleted Checklist for Schools
- Review COBIS membership categories and eligibility
- Ensure compliance with the latest (2025) Accreditation and Compliance Standards
- Gather required evidence/documentation (inspection reports, school plans, etc.)
- Complete and submit the online application
- Host/participate in any required school visit or review
- Respond to any follow-up requests from COBIS Membership Department
- Pay registration and membership fees upon approval
- Begin participation in COBIS community and programmes
Final Thoughts
Applying for COBIS membership is a clear, structured process, aimed at upholding excellence in British international education. With refreshed standards for 2025, the focus is increasingly on clarity, inclusivity, and real-world evidence, making COBIS membership both a mark of quality and a valuable partnership for internationally minded schools.
