Founded in 1959 as a kindergarten in two rooms of the British Council, The British Embassy School Ankara (BESA) in Turkey now serves students of 35 nationalities, from ages three to 14. The campus, situated within the premises of the British Embassy, houses a vibrant learning environment with a calm and cheerful atmosphere. Bright, airy classrooms in modern, purpose-built facilities rest among woodlands and play areas on the school’s extensive grounds.
BESA is a member of the Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS) and an accredited member of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS). A report of the successful inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in autumn of 2016 can be accessed on the school’s website. Although a British school, BESA is very internationally-oriented. This balance is reflected in the school’s choice of curriculum, a combination of the English National Curriculum, the International Primary Curriculum, and the International Middle Years Curriculum. At present, 207 students are nurtured by a teaching staff of 20, mostly from the U.K.
The school offers its students many opportunities to explore and excel in the arts. The Performing Arts Program at BESA introduces students to music from various époques and cultures while developing their skills in playing a range of musical instruments. Ocarinas—a type of flute with ancient roots—are introduced in Year 1, recorders in Year 3, guitars in Year 5, and trumpets in Year 7. Throughout the year, piano lessons are offered by a private piano teacher. Each school level (“Milepost” in the school’s lexicon) has the opportunity to put on a performance during the school year, and individual classes also showcase their learning during assemblies. Some shows are even performed at a local theater. Students enjoy a range of drama opportunities as well, and the beloved Drama Club produces onsite and local community performances.
BESA aims to use Turkey’s rich history and unique geography as resources for teaching, so field trips are an integral part of the students’ school experience. Current trips include both domestic and international destinations: Cappodocia, Fethiye, and Space Camp for the younger students; Gallipoli in Year 7; London in Year 8; and the U.K.’s Lake District in Year 9. The trips are designed not only to support the academic curriculum through experiential learning, but also to support the children’s social development.
BESA is interested in hiring certificated singles and couples, including those with a non-teaching partner. They will consider outstanding newly-certified teachers as well. All candidates must hold an academic degree in the subject they will be teaching. Turkey issues work visas to those under the age of 65.
The package includes a competitive salary not subject to tax, a generous moving allowance, and fully-furnished housing in addition to certain utilities. Round-trip flights are included at the start and end of each contract period, which is initially for two years, with subsequent annual renewals. The tuition benefit is 100% for up to two children. Access to a personal professional development budget of £1,000 per academic year is provided. BESA also holds in-house training opportunities throughout the year, determined by priorities in the school’s development plan. Local health insurance with emergency worldwide coverage is offered, with the employee paying up to 20% for non-emergency treatment. The school purchases additional travel medical insurance for employees traveling outside of Turkey for work purposes, as well as for during the summer holiday period. Because of the low cost of living in Ankara, the BESA package allows for some savings or a great opportunity for a family of four to live comfortably on one salary.
To gain access to The British Embassy School Ankara’s full profile on the Search Associates database, including a list of all open positions, candidates can apply for membership by clicking here. Candidates already registered can easily access the school profile directly through their dashboards.
Please note: The information presented about this school was valid on the date published. This information may change, and the most up-to-date information can be found on the school profile.
