Recognition on a global stage for students at a leading British school in Tbilisi

At the British International School of Tbilisi (BIST), success is measured not only in academic results, but in character, kindness and contribution to the wider community. That ethos has just been recognised on an international stage: three BIST students have been celebrated in the COBIS Student Achievement Awards 2026, an annual programme run by the Council of British International Schools.

Selected from a worldwide network of 172 British international schools, our students were honoured for outstanding contributions both inside and beyond the classroom – a result that speaks to the strength of a genuine British education delivered right here in Georgia.

What the COBIS Student Achievement Awards recognise

The Council of British International Schools (COBIS) is a membership association representing British international schools across more than 80 countries. Its Student Achievement Awards celebrate individual students who have demonstrated something exceptional – whether in academic work, personal character, resilience, creativity or service to their school community.

Each member school may nominate only a small number of students every year, which makes recognition across such a large global network a genuine distinction. For three students from a single school in Tbilisi to be honoured in the same year is a particularly proud moment for the whole BIST community.

Celebrating Lazare, Nivedita and Veronika

Each award tells a different story about what it means to be a BIST student. Lazare, in Year 12, was recognised for exceptional academic achievement – reflecting the rigour and ambition of the school’s senior pathways. Nivedita, also in Year 12, was honoured for a remarkable demonstration of compassion and kindness, a reminder that character matters every bit as much as academic results. Veronika, in Year 11, was celebrated for her significant contribution to the wider life of the school, the kind of leadership and involvement that shapes a thriving school community.

Together, the three awards capture the balance BIST strives for in every student: strong academics, genuine empathy, and active participation in school life – values nurtured through both the classroom and the school’s wide beyond-the-classroom programme.

An award that gives back

In keeping with the spirit of the awards, COBIS made a charitable donation to Cool Earth on behalf of every nominated student. Cool Earth works alongside rainforest communities to halt deforestation and tackle climate change – a cause our students care deeply about. It is a fitting tribute: recognising young people not only for what they achieve, but for the kind of world they want to help build.

What this means for families choosing a British school in Tbilisi

For parents weighing up a private school in Tbilisi, international recognition like this is more than a headline. It is independent evidence that a British school in Georgia can hold its own among the very best institutions worldwide – and that students here are seen, valued and supported as individuals.

BIST follows a UK-based curriculum, including the globally recognised Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level programmes, taught by experienced British educators. Families who would like to learn more can:

• explore the school’s academic programmes;
• read the latest school news and student highlights;
• or get in touch through the admissions team to arrange a visit.

Congratulations once again to Lazare, Nivedita and Veronika. You truly represent the spirit of BIST – and the very best of a British education in Tbilisi.