Education
In Country Schooling
The Jerudong International School (JIS) and the International School of Brunei (ISB) cater for children from primary through to secondary age. Full tuition costs met by the Government of Brunei. All queries about admissions must be made directly to the school.
School transport arrangements are a personal responsibility and Motor Mileage Allowance is payable.
Nursery Schooling is available at both schools.
JIS Geckos is a mother and baby group offering friendship and support. Children can attend this before they become eligible for a nursery place. JIS Geckos operates 3 times a week throughout the JIS academic term. Sessions run on Monday, Wednesday and Friday 7.30am -11am.
Initial schooling start up costs on arrival are steep and payments are cash only. Please be prepared to bring up to BND $5000 in cash to ensure you can provision all uniforms, chromebooks, trips, text books and school stationery items required for your family.
Home Education
EHE (Elective Home Education) will be considered on a case by case basis by the Ministry of Education Brunei. It requires careful consideration, particularly for this specific overseas posting.
There’s a process that must be followed to ensure that you’re able to home educate when located outside of the UK. Brunei currently (as of 2026) do not automatically recognise nor support EHE, however, they will consider each case on its own merits. Please note however, that this can take up to 12 - 18 months to gain a decision. If you are considering EHE, please engage with the SA LST at the earliest opportunity.
Elective Home Education Overseas, clearly lays out the MOD’s policy. The serviceperson can access this policy through the internal Defence Connect portal within the DIN Library, 2021DIN01-134 – Elective Home Education Overseas. It details the process for applying, the responsibilities of both the parent and the chain of command when in the host nation.
Basic Malay Course
The Basic Malay Course is available roughly four times a year. It is open to Loan Service military personnel of all ranks and civilians who are currently working with the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, British Forces Brunei and their respective spouses. The course takes place at Penanjong Garrison for three weeks.
The staff recognise that some participants have to collect children from school, and are open to discussing once the course starts. However, please be assured that it is possible to attend the course and collect children from JIS. The hours are generally 0830-1200, Monday-Thursday and 0830-1130 on Fridays.
The activities conducted throughout the course are briefly summarised as lectures, discussions and a presentation including formative and summative assessments. Course participants will also be able to experience the Bruneian culture and lifestyle through social activities and a visit to the Tutong Market.
The courses aims to:
a. Apply the Malay ethics and basic expressions.
b. Use the Malay language in its spoken and written forms.
c. Introduce the Malay customs and culture of Brunei Darussalam.
It is a popular course with Loan Service and many find that the three week commitment at the start of their time in Brunei helps with cultural understanding as well as basic language skills. If you would like to take part please contact the current SO2 TDA who will advise you on the next dates.