10 questions with BiS Principal Lochie

An article has been doing the rounds on social media recently: 10 questions every parent should ask before enrolling their child.

Choosing the right school for your child is a decision that impacts their education, personal growth, and future opportunities. To provide clarity and transparency, BiS Principal Lochie has shared how BiS addresses some of the most pressing questions parents have about education today. Here’s what she had to say:

1. How does the school ensure the safety and wellbeing of my child?

At BiS, safety extends beyond physical well-being to include emotional and social safety. Principal Lochie explains:

“It’s vital for children to feel safe being themselves and to have the confidence to use their voices—even to challenge adults, respectfully. Our goal is to foster compassionate, confident individuals who can navigate the world with integrity.”

Lochie shared inspiring anecdotes of BiS alumni who have demonstrated this, standing up for fairness in high school settings, proving the value of a supportive and empowering foundation.

2. What is the school’s approach to preventing and addressing bullying?

BiS focuses on prevention through strong staff-to-student ratios and proactive conflict resolution. Staff are present in key spaces, helping students navigate social situations as they arise. Lochie noted:

“We’re constantly addressing social development and conflict resolution, which naturally prevents bullying. In eight years, we have only had to enact our formal bullying policy only three times.”

3. How does the school foster leadership and teamwork skills?

Leadership and teamwork are embedded into BiS’ multi-age classroom structure, allowing students to practice these skills progressively.

“By the time students reach year six, they’re experienced leaders. They’ve built teamwork and leadership skills at every stage of their journey, not just in their final year.”

4. How are creativity, critical thinking, and social-emotional skills integrated into the curriculum?

At BiS, social and emotional skills are given equal importance alongside academics. Through projects like term adventures, OMNI (process-focused learning) and BiStopia (a student-led market society), creativity and critical thinking thrive.

“These aren’t ‘soft skills’—they are vital life skills. We integrate them into everything we do.”

5. What professional development opportunities do your teachers have?

BiS educators are deeply committed to lifelong learning. Lochie shared:

“We attract educators who are passionate about reflection and growth. From nonviolent communication training to trauma-informed approaches, our staff are continually advancing their skills to better serve our students.”

6. How are the arts incorporated into the curriculum?

Unlike many schools, BiS ensures students experience the full spectrum of the arts—music, dance, drama and visual arts—throughout the year.

“Each term is dedicated to one art form, culminating in performances or exhibitions. This comprehensive approach allows students to explore and express themselves creatively.”

7. How does the school assess children’s progress without undue pressure?

Assessments at BiS are framed as “check-ins” rather than high-stakes tests. Lochie emphasised:

“Our environment is designed to reduce stress, from flexible test locations to soothing classroom setups. Assessment is about understanding what the teacher needs to teach next, not about pressuring the child.”

8. What is your approach to discipline and rewards?

BiS avoids traditional discipline and reward systems. Instead, clear expectations are set, with published rules and consequences.

“Children have a voice in creating and challenging rules. This approach fosters accountability and mutual respect rather than compliance for the sake of rewards.”

9. How does the school encourage independence and responsibility?

BiS emphasises the balance between freedom and responsibility. Students are given a voice in rule-making and are on a first-name basis with staff, which fosters mutual respect and independence.

“Our small, close-knit community ensures every child is known and valued, creating an environment where independence and responsibility naturally flourish.”

10. What is the school’s mission, and how does it align with my family’s values?

The mission of BiS is to create flexible, compassionate and creative citizens who are prepared for an ever-changing world. Lochie reflects on the school’s long-standing principles:

“We cherish childhood. Our students experience joy, play, and exploration daily. This foundation leads to confident, successful adults who value lifelong learning and emotional intelligence.”

BiS invites families who share these values to join a community that prioritises adaptability, creativity and compassion—skills that prepare children for a future full of possibilities.