Academics
We combine the legacy of British Grammar Schools with the rich heritage of Mesopotamia, creating an education that is both globally relevant and locally rooted.



Language development: from mother tongue to other tongue
Building Strong Linguistic Foundations for Lifelong Learning
At British Grammar Schools in Kurdistan, we believe a strong foundation in a student’s mother tongue is key to effective language development. Research shows that students who learn in their first language perform better academically and acquire new languages more easily, as linguistic skills transfer across languages.
A well-developed vocabulary in the native language enhances comprehension, categorisation, and retention of new words in additional languages. Proficiency in the mother tongue also boosts metalinguistic awareness, aiding in understanding grammar, syntax, and literacy across languages.
At BGS, we are committed to fostering bilingual and multilingual competence, equipping students with the skills needed for academic success and global communication.

The Oxford International Curriculum, from Oxford University Press
At British Grammar Schools in Kurdistan, we proudly deliver the Oxford International Curriculum in collaboration with Oxford University Press (OUP), one of the world’s most respected educational publishers.
With a legacy dating back to the 15th century, OUP is the world’s largest university press, renowned for producing high-quality educational resources and academic publications. As a global leader in learning, OUP supports schools and institutions with expertly crafted curriculum, fostering excellence and innovation in education.
Through this partnership, BGS ensures that students receive a world-class British education, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed for lifelong success.
The Oxford International Curriculum is a comprehensive, inquiry-based framework that fosters global competence and academic excellence. Designed to meet international standards, it integrates core subjects with essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, digital literacy, creativity, and problem-solving.
With a balanced and rigorous approach, this curriculum empowers educators to deliver engaging, dynamic learning experiences, equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Oxford University Press Approval: A Mark of Excellence
At British Grammar Schools in Kurdistan, we are proud to be the first schools in the region approved to deliver the Oxford International Curriculum—a recognition that reflects our unwavering commitment to educational excellence.
Oxford University Press (OUP) maintains a rigorous vetting process for its partners, ensuring that only institutions that uphold its high standards are authorised to implement the curriculum. Through an extensive review, we demonstrated the strength of our vision, the expertise of our staff, and our dedication to academic excellence.
As an OUP-approved school, our students benefit from expertly developed teaching materials, while our educators receive specialised training through OUP’s professional development platform, ensuring world-class instruction in every classroom.

Oxford International Curriculum: A Holistic Approach to Learning
The Oxford International Curriculum provides a holistic and well-rounded education, ensuring that students develop a strong academic foundation while gaining essential life skills. Covering core subjects such as mathematics, science, and English, alongside humanities, social studies, and the arts, this curriculum encourages students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
More than just academics, the curriculum is designed to nurture intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and a lifelong love of learning. It emphasises inquiry-based learning, allowing students to explore concepts in depth, ask meaningful questions, and develop their analytical abilities. By integrating collaborative projects, research-based assignments, and real-world applications, the curriculum ensures that students develop both independent learning skills and the ability to work effectively in teams.
Beyond traditional subjects, the Oxford International Curriculum equips students with 21st-century competencies that are essential for success in an evolving global landscape. Digital literacy ensures that students can confidently navigate technology, while global awareness fosters cross-cultural understanding and a broad perspective on international issues. Personal development is also a key focus, helping students build resilience, leadership skills, and emotional intelligence to thrive in both academic and professional settings.

Internationally Recognised Qualifications
Students at British Grammar Schools in Kurdistan will have access to a wide range of internationally recognised qualifications offered by Oxford, including Oxford AQA, IGCSEs, and the Oxford Test of English. These globally respected exams provide students with academic credentials that are accepted by universities and employers worldwide, ensuring they are well-prepared for higher education and future careers.
Our ambition is to become the first authorised exam centres in the region, allowing students to sit for these prestigious assessments locally rather than traveling abroad. This will not only provide greater accessibility and convenience but also reinforce our commitment to offering a world-class British education in Kurdistan.
We are actively collaborating with Oxford University Press to achieve this certification, expanding the opportunities available to our students and positioning British Grammar Schools as a leader in internationally accredited education in the region.