Cambridge International School (CIS) is a private international school offering education through both Russian and British curricula. Students are prepared for IGCSE and A Level examinations, which pave the way to top universities in Russia, the USA, the UK, Australia, Canada, and beyond. The school guarantees a truly high-quality education and fosters the development of creative talents!
Our Advantages
- Native English-speaking teachers: Immersion in an English-speaking environment enables children to master the language quickly and speak fluently.
- International community: The school hosts students from diverse nationalities, promoting cultural exchange.
- Personalised approach: Teaching methods are tailored to meet each student’s individual needs.
- Practical focus: Students engage in real-world projects, such as filmmaking, developing computer games, and building robots.
- Preparation for top global universities: Our staff assist with the application process for leading universities in Russia and worldwide.
Philosophy and Values
We aim not only to provide an excellent education but also to nurture thoughtful, responsible, and proactive global citizens. Our school is more than a place for acquiring knowledge; it is a hub for personal growth. Our core values guide everything we do:
- Care: We create a safe environment where every student feels valued and heard. We believe that only in an atmosphere of love and acceptance can students unlock their talents and achieve ambitious goals.
- Collaboration: We encourage teamwork among students and teachers alike. Sharing ideas and solving problems together forms the foundation of successful learning. Collaboration sparks creativity, fosters innovation, and makes everyone feel part of a shared endeavour.
- Lifelong learning: We view education as a continuous journey that extends beyond the classroom. We inspire students to pursue constant self-development, nurturing their curiosity and enthusiasm for exploration.
Accreditations
CIS holds the status of a Cambridge International School, enabling it to administer Cambridge Primary, Cambridge IGCSE, and Cambridge AS/A Level examinations, as well as other Cambridge programmes.
Additionally, CIS is accredited by the Edexcel International Centre, offering programmes based on Edexcel International GCSE exams. The school also participates in professional development programmes for teachers and leaders, endorsed by the Cambridge Professional Development Centre.
These accreditations ensure a world-class standard of education recognised globally.
How We Teach
We place a strong emphasis on project-based learning. Our teachers demonstrate that academic knowledge is essential for solving real-world challenges, encouraging students to participate in large-scale projects.
A prime example is the work of Iosif, a Year 10 student. He created a game in Roblox Studio for younger CIS students. First, he designed a 3D model of the primary school, including classrooms, corridors, and playgrounds. This model became the backdrop for his game, where players explore the school to find hidden green coins, complete challenges, earn rewards, and engage with quirky mechanics that keep users captivated.
Last academic year, Year 8 students were tasked with producing a film. They faced numerous challenges, including casting, storyboarding, filming, and editing. The result was two detective short films and one superhero movie. This project provided an unforgettable team-building experience and a valuable addition to their future portfolios.
Interactive learning isn’t limited to older students. Teachers in the primary school also make lessons engaging. Leia, a CIS graduate who completed all 13 Years, shares her memories:
“In primary school, during ‘Science’ lessons, we studied the structure of volcanoes, the placement of human organs, and conducted experiments. In history, we built Egyptian pyramids from sugar cubes, the Great Wall of China from cardboard, and Viking houses from wine corks—it was so much fun!
One teacher from Australia brought us souvenirs, shared stories about the continent’s flora and fauna, and treated us to national dishes. Another teacher wore a quirky tie with a button that lit up when pressed!
My love for the world around me and unusual things later sparked an interest in physics. I wanted to consolidate all my knowledge and gain a precise mathematical understanding of everything.”
Our Infrastructure
Our campuses are designed for the holistic and comfortable development of children. For instance, the Gorki campus offers unique sports facilities, including a building with an ice rink and swimming pool, where students can improve their physical fitness and enjoy themselves.
For events, the school has a large amphitheatre-style auditorium, perfect for lectures, concerts, and other occasions.
Young artists will appreciate the spacious hall with modern, multifunctional art studios. Music enthusiasts can access a recording studio to create their own hits. Aspiring researchers can explore laboratories equipped for chemical experiments and even practice with specially prepared animal organs.
Our Dream Team
Our teachers are experienced professionals from around the world. Some were previously surgeons, others developed computer programmes, and some participated in international art exhibitions, conquering the art world. Now, they share their expertise with CIS students.
For example, Dr Charles Lanio from Ghana, a natural sciences teacher, shares his approach:
“I trained as a doctor and spent years treating patients. Later, I chose teaching to combat ignorance, which is equally important. In the operating theatre, I could help one person at a time; in the classroom, I can educate dozens of future doctors, engineers, and inventors. I aim to instil scientific curiosity in young minds—it’s the most effective way to ‘heal’ our world.
Instead of teaching from textbooks, I share knowledge gained in the operating theatre. For biology, I tell stories about human anatomy; for physics, I use medical technology as a lens; and for chemistry, I draw on reactions used in pharmaceuticals. I stress that science isn’t just a subject to memorise—it’s a tool to shape the future. To connect with students, I show genuine interest in their views, listening to their ideas, even if I think they’re mistaken. Ultimately, curiosity and ambition unite us, and they trust my guidance to achieve their goals.”
Amanda Paiva from Sri Lanka is a unique educator teaching mathematics and performing arts at CIS. She founded a theatre institute in her home country, taught at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, and served on the examination board of Trinity College London.
She describes her work:
“I nurture both logical thinking and creative abilities in students. It’s rewarding to see each student grow in confidence in their own way. In mathematics, I show how numbers connect to everyday life, helping students understand the relevance of what they learn. In performing arts, I encourage them to take risks and experiment, fostering joy in teamwork on stage. Building strong relationships with students is key. I challenge them while maintaining a positive and encouraging classroom environment.”
The director of CIS Moscow, Jessy Richardson, trained the first UN peacekeepers from Vietnam before their deployment to South Sudan and the Central African Republic. She now aspires to lead an NGO in Southeast Asia, providing education to at-risk children.
These individuals create an environment where students set ambitious goals and work diligently to achieve them.
Feedback
We highly value the opinions of parents and students, regularly conducting surveys to assess their views on the quality of education.
For example, Olga Piven, co-founder of the Digital Industry of Industrial Russia conference, the SO.ZNANIYE forum, founder of the Ko-Lab platform, and author of the Telegram channel *PostNepravda*, has children at our school. In an interview last year, she shared her thoughts on CIS:
“I rate the level of education highly. My children are in primary school, where the academic load isn’t heavy. At this stage, an emotional approach is key—teachers need to engage children in the learning process, and they do so brilliantly! Teachers always listen to my child and adapt to their needs. The curriculum is flexible, allowing substitutions like extra English or neuropsychology sessions. Individual learning plans are available—my eldest follows an advanced mathematics track with challenging tasks.
Teachers keep us informed about our children’s progress and emotional well-being. I appreciate receiving information that helps me support my child when needed.”
Olga also highlighted the importance of the international community for her children’s development:
“Fluency in English remains crucial in today’s world. I studied English extensively at university and believe interacting with native speakers is far more effective than tutoring. It shapes linguistic thinking and delivers superior results. I want my children to have options—studying at Russian universities or pursuing international education. Thanks to their CIS experience, they can easily integrate into global environments if they choose.”
Read more in our magazine *Youngzine* (p. 70)
In another survey, Natalia, mother of Vlada in Year 8, shared her daughter’s first impressions of CIS:
“For the first two weeks, I gave Vlada time to settle in without asking questions. Later, I asked, ‘How do you like the school?’ She replied, ‘At CIS, they treat me the way you do.’ This meant a lot, as our family is built on mutual respect. We don’t believe in ‘I’m big, you’re small.’
We were curious about Natalia’s thoughts on combining the Cambridge and Russian curricula. She said:
“Many parents might think a dual curriculum is exhausting, but I see the opposite—when I pick Vlada up, she’s bursting with energy! This is thanks to teachers who structure lessons effectively. Vlada says she feels no fear of teachers or the director and can approach them directly. She handles school challenges independently, which is wonderful! This friendly environment fosters independence and responsibility.”
Read more in our magazine "Youngzine" (p. 74)
Success Stories of Our Graduates
Alina, a CIS graduate, enrolled at the University of Wollongong in Dubai, pursuing a degree in international business. She credits her teacher, Mr Donovan, for his unwavering support in shaping her path.
Another graduate, Lisa, after 13 years at CIS, was accepted into the University of Groningen in the Netherlands.
Sumin Bae, a student at the Tashkent campus, achieved five A* grades in Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and English at A Levels—exams known for their rigour, requiring deep subject understanding and strong self-discipline. Even one top grade is an achievement; five is a triumph!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What curriculum do you offer?
Our school provides both the Cambridge and Russian curricula. Graduates receive two qualifications: a Russian certificate and an A Level certificate.
- What is the age range of students?
From 2 to 18 years (varies by campus). We offer kindergarten and a full-cycle school.
- How many students are in a class?
No more than 18 or 20, depending on the age group.
- How long is the school day?
The main academic programme runs from approximately 8:30 AM to 3:40 PM. After-school activities follow, with extended care available until 5:30 PM.
- Is extended care available?
Yes, after the main programme ends at 3:40 PM, students can join extended care or extracurricular activities.
- What is included in the tuition fees?
Fees cover lessons under both curricula, four meals daily, learning materials, stationery, some extracurricular activities, extended care, and participation in school events.
- What extracurricular activities are offered?
Options include:
- Creative: pottery, beading, fun crafts
- Music: piano, vocals, guitar
- Sports: hockey, figure skating, martial arts, basketball, football, yoga, table tennis, chess
- Technical: robotics, programming, electronics
- Humanities: English, French, Chinese, book club, Russian literature club
- Are extracurricular activities included in the fees?
Some are included; others require additional payment.
- Is there homework?
Yes, homework varies by year group and depends on the student’s knowledge level. Parents can access detailed homework information and teacher recommendations.
- Can students join mid-year?
Yes, subject to availability of places.
- Which universities do your graduates attend?
In Russia: Lomonosov Moscow State University, Higher School of Economics, RANEPA, MGIMO, Gubkin University, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, and others.
Abroad: Oxford Brookes University, British Higher School of Art and Design, University of Amsterdam, University of Manchester, New York Institute of Technology, University of Westminster, and others.
Ready to see it for yourself? Book a personal tour of our campus and meet our director!
