Practical Information

Academic Calendar

The academic year at Hawassa International School follows a three-term structure aligned with international norms and the Pearson Edexcel International Curriculum framework. The school year begins in late August and concludes in early July, with scheduled breaks in December, April, and over the summer months. 

The calendar is designed to balance rigorous academic instruction with periods of rest and enrichment, ensuring students remain engaged, motivated, and well-supported throughout the year. Key events such as parent-teacher conferences, assessment weeks, school performances, and co-curricular celebrations are thoughtfully integrated across the calendar to enhance learning and community involvement.

School Uniform

At Hawassa International School, we expect all students to attend school in the designated school uniform, which reflects our commitment to equality, respect, and a strong sense of community. Our uniform policy is designed not only to promote a sense of belonging, but also to support a focused and inclusive learning environment.

Wearing a uniform helps students feel part of something bigger—a united school community where every learner is valued equally. It reduces social pressure around clothing choices and helps eliminate distractions, creating a positive atmosphere that allows students to focus on what matters most: their learning, growth, and relationships.

Our uniform also encourages students to take pride in their school and their appearance, reinforcing values of responsibility, self-discipline, and mutual respect. It sets a tone of professionalism and purpose, preparing students to engage seriously and confidently in their studies each day.

We are proud of our smart, practical, and culturally respectful school uniform, and we work with families to ensure it is accessible and appropriate for all students. By wearing it, our students represent not only themselves but the values and spirit of Hawassa International School—on campus, in the community, and beyond.

School Transport

At Hawassa International School, we understand that safe, reliable, and efficient transport is an essential part of a successful school experience. Our transport service is designed to support families by ensuring that students travel to and from school in comfort, security, and on time—every day.

We operate a fleet of well-maintained, clean, and modern school buses equipped with essential safety features. Each vehicle is operated by a highly trained driver and supported by attentive staff who are committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of our students during every journey.

Our transport service covers key residential areas in and around Hawassa, making it easier for families to access our campus without stress. We also maintain clear communication with parents regarding schedules, routes, and safety procedures.

By offering reliable school transportation, Hawassa International School helps remove barriers to education and supports punctuality, regular attendance, and student wellbeing. We are proud of the role our transport service plays in creating a secure and connected learning environment for all members of our school community.

Catering

At Hawassa International School, we believe that healthy, balanced, and nourishing meals are vital to student wellbeing, academic performance, and overall development. 

Our catering service is thoughtfully designed to provide fresh, nutritious, and delicious food options that fuel learning and support a vibrant school community.

Our meals are crafted to meet the nutritional needs of growing children, with an emphasis on whole foods, seasonal produce, and balanced choices. We prioritise sourcing local ingredients whenever possible, supporting farmers and businesses in the Hawassa region and ensuring freshness in every meal.

Health, Sustainability, and Community

Hawassa International School is committed to sustainability and social responsibility. Our catering approach reflects this through:

Minimising food waste via portion control, composting, and recycling

Environmentally conscious sourcing, including local and organic options where possible

Reducing processed ingredients and focusing on natural, wholesome meals

Food is not just about nutrition—it’s about connection. That’s why we ensure our meals reflect the diverse cultural backgrounds of our students and families. We strive to make our dining experience inclusive, respectful, and enjoyable for all, offering a variety of dietary options and honouring student preferences and traditions.

At Hawassa International School, our commitment to quality extends to every part of the student experience—including what’s on the plate. We are proud of our catering team and the meaningful role they play in nourishing minds, bodies, and our school community.

Facilities

At Hawassa International School, our facilities are thoughtfully designed to support inspirational teaching, joyful learning, and student wellbeing, all while meeting the high standards of the Pearson Edexcel International Curriculum.

Situated beside the tranquil shores of Lake Hawassa, our campus offers a peaceful, secure, and naturally beautiful environment—ideal for both academic focus and personal growth. From the Early Years to the Senior School, every learning space has been created with purpose, reflecting our commitment to innovation, inclusion, and excellence.

Purpose-Built for Learning

Spacious classrooms with natural light and modern furnishings foster comfort, collaboration, and creativity.

Dedicated zones for Early Years, Primary, and Secondary students ensure age-appropriate resources and environments.

Specialist subject labs for science, ICT, and design & technology are fully equipped to support hands-on, inquiry-based learning.

A well-stocked library supports reading, research, and digital literacy for all ages.

Art, music, and drama spaces provide room for creative expression and talent development.

Sports and Wellbeing

Outdoor sports fields for football, athletics, and team games

A dedicated multi-purpose indoor sports hall for basketball, volleyball, and physical education

Safe, shaded play areas for younger children

Plans for a swimming pool and additional wellness facilities as the school grows

Safe, Sustainable, and Student-Centred

Our campus is secured by controlled access and on-site supervision, ensuring a safe and welcoming space for all students. Every facility meets or exceeds health, safety, and accessibility standards, and we incorporate sustainable practices wherever possible—from green landscaping to resource-efficient design.

At Hawassa International School, our learning environment reflects our values: global in outlook, local in heart, and designed to inspire.

We’re currently accepting applications from FS1 to Year 6, with higher levels opening annually.

We welcome Ethiopian, international, and diaspora families. Our admissions process is fair and inclusive, with readiness assessments—not entrance exams.

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