OUR HISTORY
From a small group of visionary school leaders in 1988 to a thriving regional federation today, FOBISIA was built on collaboration. The Federation began when a handful of international schools delivering a British style curriculum outside the UK recognised the value of working together. Although each school had its own identity and context, they shared common principles and similar challenges. Rather than operate in isolation, they chose partnership.
The founding schools included the British International School Jakarta, now British School Jakarta, Kota Kinabalu School, now Kinabalu International School, Tanglin Trust School in Singapore, the British School Manila, Bangkok Patana School, and The Alice Smith School in Kuala Lumpur.
FOBISSEA Heads’ Business Meeting at Tanglin Trust School, Singapore, 1992
The first gathering of Heads took place in 1988 and what began as a professional dialogue quickly developed into something more structured. It was agreed that Heads would meet annually, with schools taking turns to host. These early meetings created a trusted space to share practice, strengthen leadership and build regional understanding.
As the network grew, its reach extended beyond Southeast Asia. By 2011, membership had expanded into China, prompting a change of name from FOBISSEA to the Federation of British International Schools in Asia, reflecting its broader regional identity.
What united the founding schools and continues to unite members today is a shared commitment to high quality British style education in Asia. Collaboration, mutual support and continuous improvement remain at the heart of the Federation.
FOBISIA Board Members 2025
With over 30 years of history, FOBISIA is a diverse and inclusive community of British international schools across Asia, supporting educational organisations worldwide.