Cambridge School of Bucharest leads the way in UK and international accreditation
Cambridge School of Bucharest (CSB) has once again demonstrated its commitment to education by successfully passing its latest inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), becoming the first school in Romania, and among the…
Cambridge School of Bucharest (CSB) has once again demonstrated its commitment to education by successfully passing its latest inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), becoming the first school in Romania, and among the first international schools in the world, to do so under the newly revised British Schools Overseas (BSO) framework. This milestone solidifies CSB’s position as a benchmark institution within international education, coming just months after the school earned accreditation as an IB World School.
With these two internationally recognised, gold-standard accreditations now secured, CSB is “two for two,” a testament to its mission of nurturing confident, successful learners within a safe and inclusive environment.
A First for Romania: Pioneering a New Inspection Standard
The recent ISI inspection was not only rigorous but historic. Overseen by the UK Government’s Department for Education, the new BSO framework aligns British Schools Overseas more closely with the expectations of the UK’s independent-school sector.
The updated framework moves away from grading terms like “excellent” or “good” and instead focuses on whether schools meet each of five clearly defined standards. These cover all aspects of school life, including quality of education, pupil wellbeing, school leadership, students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, and child protection and safeguarding.
"This recent inspection was a truly 360-degree review of our school life, going into remarkable depth across every area. It was a significant step up from previous processes, and rightly so, as expectations for schools continue to evolve. We are delighted with how our school performed under this new and rigorous framework, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in all aspects," said Matthew Wemyss, Assistant School Director - Secondary.
This new format brings greater clarity, consistency, and accountability, measuring schools on substance rather than qualifying labels.
What the Inspectors Found
Inspectors affirmed CSB’s strengths across both academic provision and student wellbeing. They commended the school’s learning culture:
“Pupils work hard, show curiosity and are not afraid to make mistakes.”
This attitude reflects CSB’s belief that effort and inquiry are as valuable as achievement. Students become resilient, reflective learners who go on to leading universities and successful careers.
“Pupils behave well in lessons and around the school… [and] are respectful to their peers and others.” - the school’s respectful and inclusive culture was also highlighted.
