Brent International School Manila Guide: Academics, Admissions, Campus Life

Brent International School Manila is one of the Philippines’ most established and prestigious international schools, offering a strong academic program, diverse extracurriculars, and a supportive environment for both local and expatriate families. Known for its global curriculum, values-driven education, and well-developed campus facilities, Brent has become a top choice for families seeking high-quality international education in Metro Manila.
This comprehensive guide covers academics, campus life, admissions, fees, and what parents should know when considering Brent International School Manila.

Overview of Brent International School Manila

Brent International School Manila (often simply called Brent) is a private, co-educational, college-preparatory international school located in Biñan, Laguna. Established in 1909, Brent is one of the oldest international schools in Asia and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

The school follows an international curriculum with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme offered in Grades 11–12. Brent prides itself on its inclusive educational philosophy rooted in the values of love, honesty, excellence, and service.

Brent serves a multicultural student population from over 50 nationalities, making it a diverse global learning environment.

Academic Programs

Brent International School’s academics are structured around three major divisions: Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School. The curriculum blends international best practices while integrating character development and critical thinking.

Early Childhood and Lower School (Nursery–Grade 5)

Early childhood and elementary years focus on building foundational skills across literacy, numeracy, science, social studies, and creative expression.
Key features include:

• Inquiry-based learning

• Strong emphasis on reading and writing

• Social-emotional learning

• Daily specialist classes such as art, music, and physical education

• Integration of technology in age-appropriate ways

The goal is to nurture well-rounded young learners who are curious, confident, and able to collaborate.

Middle School (Grades 6–8)

Middle School bridges foundational learning and advanced academic preparation. Brent uses an interdisciplinary, skills-focused approach.

Highlights include:

• More subject-specific classes (English, Math, Social Studies, Science)

• World languages such as Mandarin, Spanish, and French

• Engagement in sports and performing arts

• Leadership and community service opportunities

• Structured advisory system for guidance and support

Middle School prepares students for the more rigorous academic expectations of Upper School.

Upper School (Grades 9–12)

Upper School is academically rigorous and designed to prepare students for top universities worldwide.

Key components:

• College-preparatory curriculum

• Advanced coursework in sciences, humanities, and mathematics

• Extensive elective options including visual arts, drama, economics, and technology

Students in Grades 11–12 follow the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), widely regarded as one of the strongest pre-university qualifications globally.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)

Brent International School’s IB programme is one of its strongest academic pillars. The two-year IB Diploma Programme includes:

• Theory of Knowledge

• Extended Essay

• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

Students choose subjects across six IB groups, ensuring a balanced academic profile. The IB Diploma equips students with research, writing, and analytical skills that are highly valued in global universities.

Brent graduates consistently gain admission to top institutions in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and Europe.

Faculty and Teaching Approach

Brent’s faculty is a mix of international and local educators with advanced degrees and extensive teaching experience in international schools. Teachers receive ongoing training in:

• Differentiated instruction

• Inquiry-based learning

• IB methodologies

• Educational technology

Class sizes are small, allowing teachers to provide personalized guidance and support.

Campus and Facilities

The Brent Manila campus is a modern, well-planned environment designed to support academics, arts, sports, and community life.

Academic Facilities

• Large, technology-equipped classrooms

• Science laboratories

• Computer and innovation labs

• Art studios and design rooms

• Music rooms and performance spaces

• Library with global resources

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Brent is known for its strong athletics program and offers extensive facilities:

• Multiple indoor gymnasiums

• FIFA-standard football fields

• Outdoor track and sports courts

• Olympic-size swimming pool

• Fitness center

These facilities support physical education classes, varsity teams, and after-school sports programs.

Performing Arts and Community Spaces

• Fully equipped theater

• Black box drama room

• Dance studios

• Multi-purpose halls

Community activities, parent events, productions, and ceremonies are often held in these spaces.

Student Life at Brent

Brent places strong emphasis on holistic development. Students are encouraged to participate in activities that nurture leadership, teamwork, and creativity.

Clubs and Extracurricular Activities

Clubs change every year based on student interest but typically include:

• Robotics

• Model United Nations

• Debate and public speaking

• Photography

• Journalism

• Drama and performing arts

• Environmental clubs

• Music ensembles

Extracurricular activities are structured so students can explore passions while building collaborative skills.

Athletics and Varsity Teams

Brent participates actively in competitive sports leagues including ISAC (International Schools Activities Conference). Popular sports include:

• Basketball

• Football

• Swimming

• Volleyball

• Track and field

• Badminton

• Tennis

Athletics teaches students sportsmanship, discipline, and resilience.

Community Service and Leadership

Community service is central to Brent’s identity. Students join service projects such as:

• Outreach programs

• Environmental campaigns

• Community tutoring

• Donation drives

Leadership programs, student council, and peer mentoring are also available for students who want to take on greater responsibilities.

School Culture and Values

Brent’s culture is deeply rooted in its founding principles:

• Love

• Honesty

• Excellence

• Service

Students are encouraged to practice empathy, develop strong moral character, and respect cultural differences. Brent fosters a supportive environment where diversity is celebrated and global citizenship is cultivated.

Admissions Process

Admission to Brent International School Manila is competitive but open to students of all nationalities. The school accepts applications year-round, depending on grade-level availability.

Requirements Typically Include:

• Application form

• School records from the past two years

• Recommendation letters

• Admissions interview

• Assessment tests (depending on grade)

• Copy of passport or birth certificate

For non-native English speakers, additional English language support may be recommended.

Priority Admissions

Children of expatriates, embassy staff, and corporate employees often receive priority placement, but local Filipino families are also encouraged to apply.

Tuition Fees and Costs

Brent International School Manila is one of the higher-cost international schools in the Philippines due to its facilities, accreditation, and internationally trained staff.

Typical annual fees include:

• Tuition fee (varies by grade level)

• Capital development fee

• Registration fee

• Technology and miscellaneous fees

• Transportation and lunch fees (optional)

• IB DP additional costs (Grades 11–12)

While Brent is a premium option, many parents consider the investment justified due to the school’s academic quality and university placement track record.

Transportation and Accessibility

The Brent Manila campus is located in Biñan, Laguna, near the Metro Manila–Laguna boundary. While not central to Manila, it is accessible from:

• Alabang

• Santa Rosa

• Manila South areas

• Some Makati and BGC villages (via school shuttle service)

Many families choose to live closer to the school to reduce travel time.

Parent Involvement and Community

Brent encourages strong partnership between school and families. The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) organizes:

• Cultural events

• Fundraisers

• Outreach programs

• Workshops and seminars

Parents often highlight Brent’s warm, welcoming community as one of its key strengths.

Why Choose Brent International School Manila?

Parents typically choose Brent for:

• Strong academic reputation

• IB Diploma Programme

• Balanced emphasis on academics, sports, arts, and character

• World-class facilities

• Safe and supportive campus environment

• Diverse student community

• Strong university acceptance results

Brent is ideal for families seeking a global education rooted in values and holistic development.

Final Thoughts

Brent International School Manila offers a comprehensive international education with a strong blend of academic rigor, community values, and multicultural engagement. With its long history, excellent facilities, and strong global university pathways, it remains one of the Philippines’ top choices for international schooling.

If you’re seeking a school that develops both intellect and character, Brent is a standout option.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What curriculum does Brent International School Manila follow?

Brent International School Manila offers an international, college-preparatory curriculum from early childhood through Grade 12. In the Upper School, students can pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. The school combines international best practices with a strong emphasis on literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and character formation across all grade levels.

Is Brent International School Manila an IB World School?

Yes, Brent International School Manila is authorized to offer the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. Students who enroll in the IB track take a balanced mix of subjects across different disciplines, along with core components such as Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). This program is widely recognized by universities around the world.

What grade levels are offered at Brent International School Manila?

Brent International School Manila serves students from early childhood through Grade 12. The school is typically divided into Lower School (early childhood and elementary), Middle School, and Upper School. Each division has age-appropriate academic programs, guidance, and co-curricular opportunities designed to support students’ academic and personal development.

What is the student population like at Brent?

Brent has a diverse student body that includes both Filipino and expatriate students from many different countries. This multicultural environment allows students to learn alongside peers from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds. The school promotes respect, open-mindedness, and global citizenship, helping students feel comfortable in an international community.

How large are the class sizes?

Class sizes at Brent are generally kept relatively small to support personalized instruction and close student–teacher interaction. While exact numbers can vary by grade level and subject, the school aims to maintain a manageable student–teacher ratio so teachers can provide more individual support, frequent feedback, and differentiated learning activities.

What languages are offered besides English?

English is the main language of instruction, but Brent typically offers additional language options such as Filipino and other foreign languages depending on demand and grade level. In Middle and Upper School, students may be able to choose from world language offerings as part of their academic program, helping them develop multilingual skills useful for global study and work.

What extracurricular activities and sports are available?

Students at Brent can join a wide range of extracurricular activities, including academic clubs, arts and performance groups, service organizations, and student leadership bodies. Sports options often include football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, track and field, and more. Activities may change from year to year based on student interest, facilities, and league participation.

Does Brent offer support for students who are new to English?

Yes, Brent typically provides additional support for students whose first language is not English. Depending on a student’s proficiency, they may receive English language support or placement recommendations to help them adjust to an English-medium environment. The goal is to help students develop language skills without compromising their overall academic progress.

How does the admissions process work?

The admissions process usually involves an application form, school records from recent years, recommendations from teachers, and, in many cases, an interview and academic assessment. Requirements may vary slightly by grade level. Families are encouraged to contact the admissions office, review current guidelines, and submit applications well before their intended start date to allow for processing and placement.

What documents do we need to submit for enrollment?

Common requirements include recent report cards or transcripts, recommendation forms, a completed application, proof of identity (such as passport or birth certificate), and any relevant learning support documentation. International families may also need to provide visa or residency information. For the most accurate and up-to-date list, families should refer to the school’s official admissions information.

How much are the tuition and fees at Brent?

Tuition fees at Brent are considered premium compared with many local schools because of its international curriculum, facilities, and resources. Costs vary by grade level and may include tuition, registration, capital development fees, technology fees, and optional services such as transportation or lunch. Since fees can change over time, parents should consult the school’s latest fee schedule directly.

Is transportation available for students?

Brent typically offers school bus services to and from designated pick-up points in surrounding areas, such as parts of Metro Manila and nearby communities. Routes, costs, and availability can change from year to year. Families who plan to use school transportation should check current routes, schedules, and policies with the transportation office before enrollment.

What kind of university placements do Brent graduates achieve?

Graduates from Brent International School Manila often attend universities in the Philippines and abroad, including institutions in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Europe, and Asia. University destinations vary each year, depending on student interests, academic performance, and personal preferences. The school’s college counseling team typically supports students with applications, recommendations, and planning.

How can parents get involved in the school community?

Parents can participate through school events, parent–teacher conferences, volunteer opportunities, and parent organizations such as a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), if available. These groups often help organize community-building activities, cultural events, and service projects. Active parent involvement can strengthen communication with the school and support a positive learning environment for students.