We have welcomed our new and returning students into BIC for the start of the 2023/24 academic year, so it's the perfect time to catch up with Alison Colwell, Principal at BIC, Sa Porrassa. We caught up with Alison to get her perspective on BIC’s excellent summer results and hear her thoughts on the British education system, something she knows an awful lot about.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Baleares International College?

I am the, very proud, Principal of Baleares International College, Sa Porrassa. I've had the privilege of leading this remarkable institution for the past five years, and I'm looking forward to another exciting year ahead.

How do you feel about the IGCSE and A-Level results released in the summer?

BIC students achieved exceptional results in both iGCSE and A-level exams, which left me immensely proud. We faced some challenging predictions, especially considering the ongoing discussions about tougher grading and changes in the UK's education system. However, our students' performance remained outstanding.

BIC received strong results in the face of tougher grading by UK exam boards. Why do you think this is?

There are two crucial factors at play here. First and foremost, our school is blessed with a phenomenal team of teachers who consistently go above and beyond to support our students. These remarkable exam results are a testament to their dedication and expertise.

Secondly, the success of our students is deeply rooted in the strong foundations laid during their time in Primary school and the early years of secondary education. Our students possess remarkable determination, commitment, and resilience. They've put in a tremendous amount of hard work, and it has undoubtedly paid off.

Outside of academic achievement, what else do you prioritise at Baleares International College?

While academic success is undoubtedly crucial, it's just one part of our holistic approach to education. At BIC, we prioritise the happiness, safety, and well-being of our students. We aim to create an environment where they can enjoy their time at school, learn important life skills, and engage in various extracurricular activities.

Because fundamentally, a school is about education, but it's also about preparing students for the next stages of their lives. Exam outcomes serve as the keys that open doors to future opportunities. That's why we believe in transparency and publicise our results. Parents have the right to know the quality of education their children are receiving. But students also need to be emotionally prepared and ready to take on their life after sixth form.

What are your expectations for Baleares International College in this new academic year?

I'm genuinely excited about the year ahead. With this being my fifth year as the Principal, I've seen the school grow and flourish, and I believe the upcoming year will be no different. We have an outstanding team of teachers, and our recent recruitment has brought in more exceptional talent. We are well-prepared and confident that it will be another successful year at BIC.

BIC will continue its journey of excellence with Ms Colwell and her team, but we couldn’t do it without our community of parents and of course our hard-working students. Here’s to another fantastic year at BIC!

Jonathan DeyRegional Head of Schools