
The British School in Baku was honored to host the NCUK Inspection Team during a key strategic visit aimed at evaluating and enhancing the delivery of the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) program.
Mr. Rafig Yusifzada, CEO of the British School in Baku, warmly welcomed the NCUK delegation, which included Mr. Luke O’Duffy, Ms. Katty Whiteoak, and Ms. Trishna Kimtani, Academic Manager of the IFY Programme at NCUK. This high-level visit was part of NCUK’s regular academic review and support process, designed to ensure consistent quality, compliance, and student success across its global partner institutions.
Focus on Academic Excellence
The meeting included a thorough review of the academic delivery of the IFY programme, which is currently offered to senior secondary students at BSB as a pathway to prestigious universities in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the US.
The discussions addressed a range of key topics, including:
– Ongoing curriculum alignment with NCUK’s academic standards
– Teaching methodology and assessment practices
– Student progress tracking and support systems
– Faculty development and professional training
– Future innovations in digital learning and blended delivery models
Mr. Yusifzada emphasized the school’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of academic excellence and ensuring students have access to internationally recognized qualifications that open doors to global opportunities.
A Shared Vision for Student Success
Both the NCUK team and BSB leadership expressed shared values in prioritizing student achievement, global readiness, and personalized learning. The visit also provided an opportunity to highlight recent successes from BSB students who have progressed to leading universities through the NCUK pathway.
Ms. Trishna Kimtani noted that BSB students demonstrate a high level of academic readiness and engagement, reflecting the effectiveness of the teaching team and learning environment. She praised the school’s commitment to student-centered learning and innovation.
Campus Tour and Classroom Observations
As part of the visit, the NCUK team toured the BSB campus, visited classrooms, and observed live lessons. They interacted with faculty and students, gaining firsthand insight into daily teaching practices, resource use, and student involvement. The feedback from these observations will contribute to ongoing professional development and future academic planning.
Looking Ahead
The British School in Baku values its partnership with NCUK as a cornerstone of its international academic offering. By continuing to uphold rigorous academic standards and embracing forward-thinking educational practices, BSB ensures its students are not only academically prepared but globally competitive.
The visit concluded with a shared commitment to ongoing collaboration, innovation, and mutual support — with the ultimate goal of empowering students to access world-class universities and succeed on a global stage.


