The Council of British International Schools (COBIS) requires schools to renew their membership quality assurance every five years to maintain membership status and comply with its high standards. This renewal typically coincides with the school’s accreditation or compliance review process, which ensures ongoing adherence to COBIS quality benchmarks.
Renewal Cycle Overview
- Schools undergo a quality assurance renewal every five years.
- Renewal involves either COBIS Accreditation and Compliance processes or approved partner inspections (such as BSO, ISI, CIS, NEASC, or WASC).
- The renewal is initiated about one year before the five-year cycle ends, with COBIS contacting the school to schedule the next review.
Process of Membership Renewal
The renewal process can follow two main routes:
- COBIS Accreditation and Compliance Route
- Schools apply online and pay for the compliance/accreditation process.
- Schools complete a self-evaluation and submit evidence.
- A Lead Improvement Partner (LIP) is assigned to support and arrange the school visit.
- After the visit, a detailed report and membership recommendation are compiled.
- The COBIS Quality Assurance Committee and Board ratify membership status.
- Membership confirmation and reports are sent to the school.
- Annual contacts are maintained for support, and four years after a visit, schools are notified to prepare for the next cycle.
- Approved Partner Inspection Route (BSO, ISI, CIS, NEASC, or WASC)
- Schools supply the latest approved inspection reports and action plans.
- COBIS reviews documentation and ratifies membership.
- No additional payment is required for renewal via this route, aside from the standard membership fees.
Membership Fees and Annual Subscriptions
- The COBIS membership fees for schools are calculated annually on a per pupil basis, with the 2025/26 fee at approximately £6.01 per pupil.
- Schools pay an initial application fee when joining COBIS.
- Annual membership subscription fees must be paid in full and on time to maintain active membership, with penalties such as suspension or termination if fees become overdue.
Supporting Points on COBIS Membership Renewal
- Quality assurance renewal ensures schools uphold British educational ethos and values.
- Renewal cycles facilitate continuous improvement in educational standards and inclusivity.
- The renewal process includes detailed documentation and school visits or quality reports.
- Renewal notification is given at least a year before the process to allow sufficient preparation.
- The membership renewal cycle is designed to align with global accreditation timelines.
- Annual fees and compliance requirements emphasize the commitment to sustained quality.
Summary Table: COBIS Membership Renewal Essentials
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Renewal Frequency | Every 5 years |
| Renewal Process Options | COBIS Accreditation/Compliance or Approved Partner Route (BSO, ISI, CIS, NEASC, WASC) |
| Renewal Initiation | COBIS contacts schools 1 year before due date |
| Membership Fee Calculation | Annual, per pupil basis (£6.01 per pupil for 2025/26) |
| Application Fee (New Members) | £372 (2025/26) |
| Payment Requirement | Fees payable annually to maintain membership |
| Reporting Post-Visit | Detailed reports and recommendations provided |
| Additional Annual Support | Annual contact for ongoing support and documentation updates |
Latest Updates for 2025 Membership
- COBIS refreshed its Accreditation and Compliance Standards in January 2025 to emphasize Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Belonging (DEIJB).
- Schools must provide clear evidence of inclusivity and diverse representation in their learning materials and policies.
- The updated standards aim to streamline procedures and clarify evidence requirements during membership renewal.
- COBIS continues to support schools through Lead Improvement Partners during the five-year renewal cycle.
In conclusion, schools need to renew their COBIS membership every five years through a structured quality assurance process involving accreditation or approved partner inspections. This renewal is essential to maintain membership benefits and align with COBIS’s commitment to educational excellence and inclusivity. Annual fees are calculated per pupil and must be kept current to avoid suspension or termination of membership. The 2025 updates focus on enhancing inclusivity and clarity in renewal standards for member schools.
