British American School of Charlotte

As an expat family who moves in and out of international schools frequently, we couldn't be more happy with BASC! The teachers and staff truly understand the needs of children, especially ones who are transitioning to new cultures, new learning styles and new friends. We first found BASC after returning from an assignment in Belgium and this is our second round at BASC. We spent the last year in London and our three children picked right up where they left off with friends and curriculum. A huge emphasis is placed on individual student learning and personal development. We wouldn't have our kids anywhere else! I believe the teachers have a true love of teaching children and you can feel it when you walk into the school! Our children are so sad to be leaving this year as we are off on another assignment. However, we will never leave our BASC family and are confident that through the efforts of the staff, our children are prepared for our next adventure!
—Submitted by a parent

We quickly took our child out of the school after a short time. We are appalled at the way the children are treated by the teachers. Some teachers see nothing wrong with hauling off and yelling at kids at the top of their lungs. I showed up at school when the teacher was not aware I was there, and heard her screaming - screaming! at the kids. My child's friend told me, "My teacher pretends to be nice, but really she is mean." Complaining to the administration does no good. Many parents have tried. We were very excited about this school because of the IPC curriculum -it is claimed the children learn more and progress faster. This appears to be true as your child comes home having learnt some pretty advanced things. However, kids who have been there for a while are deficient in some basic learning, while being very advanced in other areas. Other parents who took their kids out have told me this. The International Primary Curriculum is a money-maker for these schools - and yet there are some real problems with it. See the website below for reviews of the curriculum: theschoolrun.com/forum/many-many-problems-ipc-international-primary-curriculum-parent-be-warned
—Submitted by a parent

Our daughter has grown exponentially since enrolling at BASC. She is suddenly reading (she is not yet four years old), speaking both French and Spanish, and has become much more socially aware. She dislikes the weekends, and constantly asks when it will be Monday again so she can go to school! It doesn't get better than that!
—Submitted by a parent

By far, the best school in the region. My children are excelling here. We love the diversity of the school, as well.
—Submitted by a parent

Someone termed this school Charlotte's best kept secret and that is the truth. If you are looking for a school with excellent academics, but also a caring atmosphere, BASC is it. We are thrilled with the progress our children are making. They are way ahead of their peers and they simply love attending school. There are so many differences in the way this school approaches learning - too many to describe here. Its amazing.
—Submitted by a parent

Finally a school where children learn! They never come home annoyed after 7 boring hours of doing nothing. They receive help, if needed; they are pushed further if required. Very open minded environment focused on the global world. Teachers are very well prepared and great people. Staff is wonderful.
—Submitted by a parent

I usually would not even consider writing a review. But when I read the negative parent review incriminating basically all British schools, I felt like I had to react. We arrived two years ago from abroad and our kids were indeed welcome right from the start in BASC. They keep feeling very comfortable in this school (better than in any of the previous countries). We are very happy with their progress, both scholarly and socially. Teachers can give a lot of attention to each kids thanks to limited number of kids per class and are doing a good job tailoring the lessons to their potential. I am happy we selected the BASC.
—Submitted by a parent

'Learning is fun!' I never thought this would be like that for my kids but it is now. Until a couple of months ago, going to school has always been a struggle and something that they had to do. That is not a concern anymore, I see my kids flourish and not only in learning but also socially! The school is such a warm environment with outstanding teachers!
—Submitted by a parent

Such a fabulous place to learn!! Our children have attended the school for 5 years and we couldn't be happier! Such a nurturing environment and the learning is top-notch! Individualized lesson plans and project based learning make the schoolwork challenging, fun and also teach valuable critical thinking skills. Imagine a place where a teacher measures his/her success by the success of each student and where every child is valued for their unique gifts and you'll have an idea of the incredible learning that goes on in each and every class. My children come home every day excited about what they have learned. The school also has such great cultural diversity! School uniforms also help to keep the focus on learning.
—Submitted by a parent

I also am writing to disagree with the previous negative posts. We have been in the school for 6 years and have NEVER come across the issues of bullying or inappropriate discipline from the teachers. This school harbors a community of tight knit families and staff that work together to make the school the best that it can be. It would be hard to keep something so offensive under wraps in a school like ours. Beyond the amazing teachers, the individualized learning and the diverse student body, this school teaches respect and appreciation of oneself and of a much larger world outside the school doors. Surely issues arise as in any institution and they are addressed...whether big or small. The unique learning style is a sure fit for our kids.
—Submitted by a parent

The past review is a complete lie and someone who has no clue what they are talking about. I have never in all my years at the school seen or heard what this person is referencing. If those things did actually happen everyone would be aware and no one would leave their children at the school. This school is unique in that the older children care deeply about the younger ones, offer up assistance at recess & lunch, the parents are excellent, administration responsive and teachers excellent.
—Submitted by a parent

We were very disappointed and shocked at some of the things that are allowed to happen at this school. There is terrible gender-based bullying which is not addressed. Looks like all of the British Schools run by WCL (World Class Learning, the parent company) have the same problems. They operate schools in Houston, Chicago, New York, Washington DC, Charlotte and Boston, and all of them are reviewed on this site. Study the negative reviews from all of these schools, and you will have a pretty good idea what this school is like, especially regarding the interactions with leadership! Some of the teachers are well known for yelling at the students - even very little kids, to the point that many of the kids come home upset and crying at how they have been treated. DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD TO THIS SCHOOL. The "feel good" thing at the beginning is just a facade. This school is a real mess.
—Submitted by a parent

I am writing to respectfully disagree with the parent who believes the admin does not address issues. My family has been at the school for 7 years and while I have 3 children, inevitably, issues do arise. I have received phone calls over the weekend, prompt emails, and even had an impromptu meeting with the Headmaster. Issues will arise- the real question is - how does the admin handle the issues? I would not expect anyone to wave a magic wand, but I have always received fair honest consistent answers. They won't cave to parental pressure. If that were the case, my plea to lower tuition would have been granted years ago. They will however, listen and respond. Regarding turnover-kids come and go at any school and especially at a school that has many expats. Others choose to move on to larger schools and yes some leave because they do not agree with certain decisions. I expect this happens everywhere. Teachers generally stay although you will always have a few who decide to return to their home country. Most of the teachers have taught globally which makes a huge difference in the classroom. My kids are excelling and I believe they are better prepared to enter a global world.
—Submitted by a parent

We had high hopes for this school. We were very impressed by the individualized learning concept and the curriculum seemed wonderful. Unfortunately the leadership here is very inadequate. Serious problems are not addressed. Every year there is huge turnover in the staff and students. The image they present is just that: an image. Not reality.
—Submitted by a parent

This school truly is one of Charlotte's best kept secrets. It's intellectually challenging, but it also prepares children emotionally and socially for life in an ever-changing, multi-cultural world. It's a very close-knit community, and I believe both I and my son have made life-long friends there. They are really willing to work with your child -- playing to their strengths and strategizing through their weaknesses. It's not a one-size-fits-all approach. I also like that there's very little snobbery or elitism there -- something I fear I see at many other private schools.
—Submitted by a parent

We are in our 6th year here and extremely happy. My child performs well in a small class environment with lots of attention and she has thrived academically and socially. The teachers and curriculum as well as the overall philosophy of the school make it what it is. Over the years, I have noticed a big difference in BASC's Math program versus other schools. Kids move along at a quicker pace than American schools. Concepts are introduced at an early age and expanded upon as the kids get older. The sky is the limit here. If your child is ready, teachers are keen to move them forward in a very gentle way. The school's philosophy supports Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligence concept and they encourage the children to identify themselves within this model. A great school that I would highly recommend!
—Submitted by a parent

I think the school is phenomenal. The curriculum is lively, highly imaginative and of very high quality. I do believe there has been recent turnover of staff and a few teachers, but keep in mind that all of the teachers are from the UK and all topnotch, brought in each year. As for staff, the headmaster brings in only the best administrators and staff to keep the school running like clockwork.

This is an extraordinary school, and it has made a phenomenal difference in our daughter's life. The teachers are excellent. They truly know and care for each child. Individually learning styles are supported, and our daughter's self esteem and confidence has increased dramatically during her time at BASC. The school community is cohesive and nurturing, and we love the interaction between grade levels. Furthermore, the international focus is evident in the student population, the teachers, curriculum, festivals and celebrations. The British American School is wisely educating it's students for a future in a global world where 8 out 10 of the jobs the children will have do not even exit today. There are many fine private schools in Charlotte, but the British American School has a unique emphasis on the child's learning and long term growth and development. It is truly unique and one of the city's best kept secrets.
—Submitted by a parent

We recently moved from this school out of state. My boy had a great experience with the teachers and did very well with writing specifically. The development and teaching support was way beyond his grade level. The teaching and curriculum is almost perfect. The fall side though, is that not many issues are resolved when you approach the management for changes to systems or structures however minor or major. Staff keeps changing in the office too frequently. I saw atleast 5 reception and 3 admissions people and a few teachers come in and leave during the 2.5 yr period we were there. Its kind of weird asking a question or voicing a concern in this stiff environment for the parent. Thats the only fall side. I would highly recommend this school to all parents academically.
—Submitted by a parent

The school curriculum and teaching is excellent.However, the management is in pathetic shape and keeps changing its rules, people and components all the time. No consistency in following procedures other than teaching. Does not follow safety guidelines during school hours. The picture they paint in the beginning when you join is pretty colorful but does not raise to the standard. Disappointing for having such a wonderful curriculum.
—Submitted by a parent