The British School of Costa Rica

Introduction

The purpose of the school plan is to promote long- term thinking and, by consulting all involved in the school, give them a sense of commitment and a sense of security as to the future of the school.

The plan is for the next five years, beginning in January 2007.  It is anticipated that progress should be reviewed at the end of each academic year.

The plan is based on maintaining numbers in the area of 900 pupils without significant increases in either fees or spending from current dollar equivalent levels. The above notwithstanding, should student numbers fall drastically or inflation make substantial salary increases necessary in order to retain staff, then the School’s revenue sources would have to be reviewed.

Strategic

• Work through ACEP to establish a permanent  agreement with the Ministry of Education with regard to MEP exams in the school
• Work to extend I.B. recognition at national and private universities.
• Explore the possibilities of establishing another school in a different, nearby location that could eventually offer better facilities on larger premises.
• Explore the possibilities of collaborating with the Instituto Británico by establishing a school in the same premises as a new Language Centre in another part of the country.

Curriculum

• Respond to the report of ECIS Self-Study Curriculum and Assessment Committees
• Continue expanding range of options at IGCSE and International Baccalaureate levels.
• Establish final Gifted and Talented Policy

Building, Isntallations and Facilities

• Complete the construction of all basic infrastructure within one year … including auditorium and Music / Performing Arts centre.
• Remodel the Administration Building.
• Improve the recreational facilities, including buying more land, if available with requisite planning permission
• Continue with the ongoing remodelling and refurbishment programme to improve all classrooms, libraries and other facilities that are more than 10 years old at any given time.
• Provide wireless access facilities to allow students to work effectively on the internet from all parts of secondary school.

Finances

• Hold the dollar equivalent fee as stable as possible, whilst adjusting for inflation in colones or dollars as necessary.
• Revise and improve school financial management procedures
• Maintain the purchasing power of staff salaries as far as possible by adjusting against devaluation of the local currency and also inflation if excessive.
• Create a Strategic Reserve Fund.

Staffing

• Review recruitment policy with a view to increasing the number of suitably qualified, local hire teachers.
• Collaborate with the Instituto Británico and / or the “A.C.E.P.” in the establishment of a bilingual teacher training programme for both Primary and Senior School teachers.

N.B.  Last revised 24th April 2007 after consultations with Advisory Council, Steering Committee and Instituto Británico.