BESA Announces New Partnership with COBIS (Council of British International Schools)

BESA is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Council of British International Schools (COBIS).

This collaboration will provide BESA members with enhanced opportunities to engage with British international schools worldwide, strengthening our shared commitment to excellence in international education and supporting members in expanding their global reach.

With BESA representing nearly 400 trusted UK education suppliers and COBIS supporting over 330 British international schools across more than 85 countries, this partnership will open new channels for collaboration and growth.

Through this partnership, BESA members will gain access to speakers and insights from school leaders operating in key international markets, drawn from the extensive COBIS network. There will also be additional benefits for COBIS Supporting Associates who are BESA members, and opportunities for collaboration on events and conferences for the mutual benefit of our communities.

Caroline Wright, Director General of BESA, said:

“We have long admired COBIS and the work they do to raise standards, ensure safeguarding, and facilitate collaboration among their network of international schools worldwide. COBIS and BESA share many of the same values and offer complementary services, so it seems a natural next step to formalise our collaboration. This partnership will support the work of both associations and deliver greater value for our members. I look forward to continuing what is already a long and healthy working relationship.”

Colin Bell, CEO of COBIS, said:

“We are delighted to partner with BESA, an organisation that shares our commitment to supporting high-quality education worldwide. This collaboration will create new pathways for COBIS Supporting Associates to connect, learn, and grow their international reach. By working together, COBIS and BESA can further strengthen the bridge between trusted education suppliers and leading British international schools around the world.”

Closer ties between BESA and COBIS will bring greater opportunities for both associations and raise awareness of our shared mission to champion excellence, innovation, and collaboration in education worldwide.