TBS IGCSE class achieve superb IGCSE Results
100% pass rate in mathematics for the second year running, 100% A*s in biology!
The TBS IGCSE class achieved some wonderful IGCSE results with 28% or grades at the highest grade A*. With the exception of the post COVID result of 2022, this is the highest the school has ever achieved. When compared to our six year average of results achieved in actual examined years, the 2025 results are almost exactly in line with the school average. These results are much higher than the UK average (67% A*-C) and in line with the UK independent school average (89% A*-C) where much of the UK independent sector is considerably more academically selective than the inclusive all ability commitment to learning that characterises a TBS education.
For the second year in a row the entire cohort passed at grade C or higher in mathematics whilst in biology the entire class achieved a remarkable A* equivalent (Edexcel grades 9 or 8).
Individually 16 students achieved at least one A* grade with two students gaining 8 A*s and 6 students achieving at least 7 A or A* grades. 92% of the class achieved 5 or grades A*-C, the standard benchmark used in the UK for progression into A level study.
TBS students do better than expected – a value added commentary.
Success at IGCSE is not just measured in number of A*s. Even more important is how much progress has been made and using this metric it has been a fantastic set of results which the whole TBS community can celebrate. At the start of year 10, all students take a CAT test which projects the most likely IGCSE outcome for each student. In 2025 TBS students returned an average CAT score of +0.6, meaning on average across all subjects TBS students achieved more than half a grade higher than their peers across the UK and world taking GCSEs.
A number of subjects achieved our higher CAT challenge target – the grade a student is most likely to achieve if they exceed expectations. Special congratulations to students in the following nine subjects who achieved this impressive feat: art, chinese, computer science, design technology, drama, maths, science (double award), biology, chemistry and physics.
Individually, well done to the following 12 students who all achieved their CAT challenge target when their results across all 9 subjects on average: Vivaan, Triral, Jigtenla, Ede, Aarya, Kaustubh, Saugat, Dhanush, Tanushka ,Kashvi, Indu and Anvi.
21 TBS students awarded their DoE Bronze Award
Last year, the Y10 students embarked on the great Duke of Edinburgh adventure. It started with deciding on their goals for three different types of activities (physical recreation, skill, and volunteering), and going on a hike during expedition week, as a practice. Throughout the year, the students have shown great dedication towards their goals, as well as excellent team work, organisation skills, and creativity during the Qualifying Adventurous Journey in Shivapuri, where they hiked for two days in small groups, pitched their tents and cooked for themselves. Some moments were fun, some others were challenging, but they never gave up! Today, we are proud to announce that 19 (currently) Y11 students have completed the Bronze Award, as well as two Y13! Sanah, Maulik, Paridhi, Nikhil, Athalia, Sizuka, Arka, Mateo, Saanvi, Victoria, Shrishti, Yajur, Upasana, Manashi, Suzanne, Bibhushan, Ira, William, Ivanjali, Soniva, and Amitayush. Congratulations on this great accomplishment! For those many of you who have decided to carry on with Silver, we can’t wait to see how brilliantly you will take on this new challenge!
Ms Maes, Outdoor Education Coordinator
Reflections on results week
TBS students received some fantastic IGCSE results this week. Curriculum prefect Avani has shared her reflections of how it feels to be a student collecting their results.
The first thing I noticed when handed the envelope was how light it felt. Somehow I had expected it to be heavier. Perhaps it was because of the weight the results carried on my mind that made me think it would have the same properties physically. Still it felt strange that something so important could be contained on a single sheet of paper.
As my peers and I nervously opened our envelopes, I saw a range of reactions around me. Some were celebrating, others seemed shocked or were reflecting quietly. But one thing remained consistent throughout the room: the support and encouragement being shared with one another. Whether through cheers, kind words, or simply being there, it showed that our sense of community mattered more than any single grade.
After all, grades are individual. A concept that may be hard to accept at first but is important to remember. Someone predicted an A might feel disappointed with a C, while for someone else that same mark could represent significant progress in a subject. Results not only reflect what we know now, but also highlight areas where we can continue to grow and improve.
For students everywhere, exam season brings a mix of emotions. Grades may feel like the most important thing, but are really just part of a larger journey. For some, results bring celebration; for others, they provide a chance to reset and set new goals. Above all, this time reminds us that success comes in many forms, and with resilience and encouragement, each of us can keep moving forward.
Saturday August 17th New prefect team training day
Last Saturday, for the first time ever, the 2025–26 prefect team held its introductory meeting. With Ms. Sheldon and Mr. Draper generously taking time out of their weekend to share insights on planning for the year ahead, the team had the chance to get to know each other and exchange ideas. We believe the day was a huge success.
Starting the year with a clear understanding of what it means to be a prefect (our responsibilities, expectations, and role as student leaders) puts us in a strong position to make a tangible impact from the very beginning. We are excited for what lies ahead, and plans are already underway to make our school environment an even better place.This was just the start, and we’re excited to bring our ideas to life. Whether it’s introducing new projects or building on traditions we already value, we’re looking forward to making this year meaningful for everyone.
Brishi & Abdul, Head Prefects
Auditions for Jerusalem by Jez Butterworth
Jerusalem by Jez Butterworth is set in rural England on St. George’s Day. It follows Johnny “Rooster” Byron, who is seen by some as a rebellious outsider resisting eviction from his woodland home, and by others as a legend. The play explores themes of English identity, myth, freedom and resistance to authority, combining both humour and tragedy.
Auditions for the production were held this week, with around 15–20 students taking part. It was especially encouraging to see that several students who do not take Drama for A-levels or IGCSE also joined the auditions, showing that the opportunity to participate in theatre is open to all.
The play will be performed during Enrichment Week in a professional theatre in Kathmandu. Recalls will take place next week, and any new students who are interested, as well as those who missed this week’s auditions, are welcome to contact Ms. Mountjoy.
Aditi & Josef, CPA prefects
NISSA league updates
The senior boys’ football team tryouts took place last Monday, The turnout was immense with 28 determined participants ranging from Year 10 all the way to Year 13, everyone there for the love of the game.
The intensity was set from the get-go with hard tackles and powerful shots. The coaches were impressed, not only by individual ability but also by team chemistry. Together it created a quite palpable atmosphere. Everyone gave their maximum effort, however not all players would get a spot on the team as there was only enough room for 18 athletes.
The final team was announced the next day on the bulletin board. Congratulations to those who made it, and better luck next year to those who missed out, but props to each and every person brave enough to show up and put themselves out there.
This past Wednesday, the NISSA girls’ basketball tryouts brought 18 to 20 enthusiastic participants from Years 10 through 12, all of whom were eager to establish themselves on the court. The intensity was high from the first drills with quick layups and shooting practice, then moving forward to intense defensive and offensive pressure games establishing a positive atmosphere. In addition to individual skill, coaches were impressed with the teamwork and resilience displayed. However, there were only a few spots available on the final roster. Emotions were running high as the list was made public in the following week, some were happy, others were disappointed, but everyone was proud. Well done to everyone who had the courage to try out, looking forward to a positive outcome this year. Good luck!
Rheha & Pratham, Sports Prefects
Drama Recap 2024/25
GCSE and A Level Drama at TBS
This year, the Drama Department has been a dynamic hub of creativity and critical thought, with students from Years 11, 12, and 13 delivering exceptional examination performances. Their dedication extended beyond the classroom, as they invested countless lunchtimes and after-school hours to devise and rehearse compelling pieces.
The students tackled pressing global issues through their performances, delving into topics such as corporate greed, the complexities of international elections, and the societal pressures stemming from unrealistic beauty standards. Their work not only showcased their artistic talents but also sparked meaningful conversations about these critical subjects.
By using the stage as a platform for social commentary, our GCSE and A Level students demonstrated the power of drama to challenge perceptions and inspire change.
To see clips from the GCSE and A Level exam work, you can click on the QR code below!
KS3 Drama Club
Bibek Neupane has played a vital role in shaping the KS3 Drama Club this year, fostering a space where KS3 students can grow as storytellers and build their confidence. Through a blend of engaging drama games, acting exercises, and impactful techniques like repetition, slow motion, mime, freeze frames, and breaking the fourth wall, he has encouraged students to push their creative boundaries. His mentorship has transformed the Drama Club into a lively, supportive environment where students can freely experiment and develop their skills on stage.
Drama FOBISIA
In December, we had 9 GCSE and A Level students attend the FOBISIA Senior Drama Festival – ‘Actions Speak’ at The British School, New Delhi.
This immersive experience brought together Drama students from across Asia, fostering collaboration, creativity and cultural exchange.
Throughout the festival, students engaged in dynamic workshops, devised original performances, and explored the power of non-verbal storytelling. The theme Actions Speak challenged participants to convey compelling narratives through movement, expression, and stagecraft, emphasising that sometimes, actions resonate louder than words.
KS3 Drama
KS3 sets the foundations of skills and knowledge for GCSE and A Level and the students had an exciting year learning about many different styles of theatre, practitioners and theatre companies.
Year 7 put their physical skills to the test as they explored Mime in Term 1 and, in Term 4, learnt lifts and how to fly as we study The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night – Time.
Year 8 researched the practitioner Bertold Brecht in Term 3, and re-imagined traditional fairy tales for the 21st Century adding in a socio-political message. In Term 4, they focused on Naturalism and rehearsed and designed the set and props for duologues which they performed to the rest of the class in June.
Year 9 performed pieces of Immersive Theatre set in The Night Circus and which were inspired by the theatre company ‘Punchdrunk’. In Term 4, we explored a co-curricular project with Geography and History where students found first hand accounts of migration and used those to create Verbatim Theatre.
