NIS HISTORY AND TIMELINE OF DEVELOPMENT
January 4, 1982
Naseem International School was established in response to Bahrain’s growing need for inclusive, high-quality bilingual education.
The school initially opened its doors to Kindergarten students, serving both national and international communities, with a strong commitment to inclusive Early Childhood Education.
June 1982
By mid-1982, student enrolment had grown significantly from the initial five students to a total of sixty.
Academic Year 1985–1986
Student enrolment reached 100, reflecting increasing demand and the school’s growing reputation.
Academic Year 1986–1987
Enrolment rose to 130 students. During this academic year, the school relocated to a larger premises in Ghudaiybiya, where the Elementary School section was officially introduced.
April 1991
Naseem International School moved to a more spacious campus in Adliya, marking a major milestone with the establishment of the Middle School section.
February 1994
Construction of the new Naseem International School campus in Riffa began at the onset of the holy month of Ramadan.
Academic Year 1994–1995
The completion of the Riffa campus marks a significant milestone for the school, allowing it to start the academic year in a new facility. Finished in just six months, this campus underscores the school’s commitment to growth and sets the stage for future expansion.
December 1995
The new Riffa campus was officially inaugurated under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain
Academic Year 1995–1996
Naseem International School officially introduced the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), significantly enhancing its academic offerings. Student enrolment in the program increased steadily in subsequent years.
June 1996
The school received accreditation from the Career and Technical Education International Accreditation (CITA), recognizing its commitment to high standards in education.
1997
The Ministry of Education of the Kingdom of Bahrain formally accredited the Naseem Diploma, recognizing it as equivalent to the national High School Diploma.
October 1997
Naseem International School was granted full accreditation by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) for its educational programs from Nursery through Grade 8
June 1998
Naseem School celebrated the graduation of its first senior class, marking an important milestone in the school’s history.
March 1999
The school formally added the word “International” to its name, becoming Naseem International School. Previously known as Naseem School, this change reflected the adoption of internationally recognized teaching programs, a growing body of international students, and the recruitment of educators from diverse global backgrounds.
2002
Naseem International School introduced the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), extending from Nursery through Grade 6, further strengthening its commitment to inquiry-based, globally focused education.
September 2002
A state-of-the-art Sports and Arts Complex was inaugurated, featuring an indoor sports hall, art studio, music room, home economics facilities, an outdoor soccer field, and shaded parking for faculty and staff.
September 2004
Naseem International School introduced the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP), expanding its IB continuum to include students from Grades 7 to 10.
2004
NIS received full accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA), completing its comprehensive accreditation for all grade levels from Nursery through Grade 12.
2006
A new cafeteria, additional classrooms, and a fully equipped conference facility were completed, supporting the school’s continued growth and development.
January 2008
The Elementary School received official authorization to deliver the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), reinforcing the school’s commitment
to international education from early childhood through to Grade 6.
January 2012
The Middle School was formally authorized to offer the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), completing the school’s full authorization across 3 IB program levels (PYP, MYP, and DP).
2012
Mrs. Sameera Al Kooheji introduced the school’s official motto, “Students First”, which was subsequently incorporated into the Naseem International School logo, reinforcing the school’s student-centred philosophy.
January 2017
Naseem International School was awarded accreditation by the Council of International Schools (CIS), further affirming its commitment to high standards in international education.
September 2017
Naseem International School inaugurated major extensions to its main building, including the state-of-the-art NIS Cultural Theatre, dedicated art studios, an art gallery, a new administration block, and additional classrooms, further enhancing the school’s learning environment and facilities.
November 2017
The NIS soccer team participated in the Mediterranean Cup Soccer U 18 Tournament in Verona, Italy from 2-5 November. Hearty congratulations to our soccer boys who have won their final against Oxford to become the Mediterranean Cup for International Schools 2017 Champions in Verona, Italy.
January 2018
NIS launched its “Go Green” campaign, promoting environmental responsibility through the “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” initiative. The campaign aimed to raise awareness and foster a culture of sustainability within the school community.
The school proudly embraced the phrase “Proudly Bahrain” as a reflection of its national pride and values. Through this expression, the NIS community reaffirmed its identity and loyalty to the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Naseem International School implemented the use of Chromebooks for students from Grade 3 to Grade 11, enhancing digital learning and integrating technology more deeply into classroom instruction.
April 2018
NIS became an officially certified BTEC Centre, offering specialized vocational programs in Business, Art & Design, and Applied Science, broadening post-secondary pathways for students.
September 2018
NIS unveiled its new STEAM Maker-Space, fostering hands-on, interdisciplinary learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and
mathematics. Additionally, the newly renovated Elementary School Library and Media Center, Elementary Art Studio, and upgraded IT and
Design Technology classrooms were opened, further enriching the learning environment.
October 2018
Naseem International School submitted its application to Google for Education – MENA, seeking recognition as a Google for Education
Reference School in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
December 2018
NIS was officially recognized by Google as the first Google for Education Reference School in the Kingdom of Bahrain, acknowledging its leadership in educational technology integration.
Academic Year 2018–2019
During the 2018–2019 academic year, NIS was authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP), becoming a fully authorized IB World Continuum School with all four IB programmes.
September 2021
Mrs. Sameera Al Kooheji inaugurated the newly renovated and upgraded NIS Sports Complex, further enhancing the school’s physical education and extracurricular facilities.
November 2021
NIS was granted Candidate School status by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) following a Virtual Learning Principles visit conducted from 3-7 October 2021.
NIS was awarded Candidate School status for CIS/MSA re-accreditation following the preparatory evaluation visit held from October 24–28, 2021.
September 2022
Completed a major refurbishment and enhancement of the Reception area, as well as the Middle and High School Library, creating a more modern and welcoming learning environment.
November 2022
Awarded an “Outstanding” overall performance classification by the Bahrain Education and Training Quality Authority (BQA), following
the Quality of School Practices review conducted from 14–16 November 2022.
June 2023
Successfully re-accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS), reaffirming the school’s commitment to international standards of excellence in education.
October 2023
Hosted the “NIS Space Exhibit”, celebrating innovation and providing students with a dynamic and inspiring educational experience.
November 2023
Achieved full accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), recognizing the school’s high-quality learning practices.
Earned re-accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA), covering programs from Nursery through Grade 12.
January 2024
Inaugurated “Naseem Park” in the presence of His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Khalifa, the Governor of the Southern Governorate following its transformation into an innovative educational space designed to enrich students’ learning experiences.
September 2024
Opened a new Middle and High School building, featuring modern, state-of-the-art facilities that promote effective teaching and foster academic excellence.
The “Taaleem” Program was launched to provide Education Continuity Insurance, developed in collaboration with the International Takaful Foundation. It ensures uninterrupted learning for students during unforeseen circumstances. The program is fully funded by the school for the 2024–2025 academic year and is offered free of charge to all enrolled families.
April 2025
Hosted the “Under the Sea” Art Exhibition, showcasing the school’s commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness through creative student artwork made from recycled materials.
September 2025
Completed the full renovation of the Elementary School KG and STEAM area, upgrading the facilities to align with the highest international standards and enhancing hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences.
October 2025
Celebrated the opening of the Pre-University Hall, a vibrant and collaborative space designed to support students as they prepare for higher
education by fostering innovation, critical thinking, and academic exploration.
NIS HISTORY Gallery
