Our story
Where we began
Founded in 2011 by parents, British & French Academy carries a singular conviction: to be the extension of every family in the education of their child.
It began with a group of parents united by a single conviction: that a school should not simply pass on knowledge. It should be a place where every child is known, respected, and encouraged with the same care they receive at home.
It was from that search that British & French Academy was born — not as a variation on an existing system, but as the project of parents determined to build, themselves, the school they wanted for their children. Years later, that spirit still drives our work every day: staying attentive to you, the parents, and carrying your vision as far as our own. Because here, your child never truly leaves home — at school, they find an extension of their parents.
What guides us
At British & French Academy, our vision is to shape tomorrow's decision-makers, versatile international professionals, and leaders. Our qualified teachers awaken each child's gifts, ensuring personalized guidance and nurturing every child's unique potential.
British & French Academy (BRIF) was founded by parents and run by educators who share your aspirations. We educate and train your child in a healthy, serene, and secure environment, ensuring each child receives the guidance and support they need.
Founded by
Founder
Charlotte Frédérique De Souza studied literary arts before going on to pursue language translation, a path that left her with a lifelong sensitivity to language and how it shapes a child’s sense of belonging. She went on to build her career in property and casualty insurance. But it was that first sensitivity, born of literature and translation, that gave rise to a conviction: that families in the region deserved a school where every child could feel truly at home, in English as in French. That conviction led her, in 2011, to found British & French Academy, a school she continues to lead and grow today.
Co-founder
Gualbert Adohoueto has built his career at the intersection of leadership and innovation, working across education, health, commerce, and industry to help drive sustainable development throughout West Africa. When Charlotte confided in him her ambition for the education of Cotonou’s children, he recognised the same high standards that had always guided his own path. Convinced by her vision, he chose to support her in this venture, offering the confidence and encouragement she needed.
What we stand for
We do what is right, especially when no one is watching.
We ask every student to bring their best, and we help them get there.
Founded by families, we still look after one another, parents and staff alike.
To be salt and light means to give back to Cotonou and beyond.
What sets us apart
Students work confidently across English and French every day, not as subjects, but as the languages of real learning.
Teachers know every student by name. We keep class size to a maximum of 15 students, so no child slips through the cracks.
Our motto, Lux Mundi et Sal Terrae, guides a culture of integrity, service, and respect for one another.
From primary through secondary, we prepare students for universities and futures across Benin and beyond.
Official recognition
British & French Academy is officially recognised by the Government of Benin. Our accreditation is validated by ministerial decree from the Ministère de l'Enseignement Maternel et Primaire (MEMP) for primary education, and the Ministère de l'Enseignement Secondaire, Technique et de la Formation Professionnelle (MESTFP) for secondary education. You can trust our accredited institution to give your children a path to academic excellence.
Our school is an approved Cambridge International School, registered to offer education programmes and qualifications from the Cambridge Pathway. We are proud to be part of the world's largest global community of schools.
Accreditations & partners
British & French Academy is proud to be affiliated with the following institutions and accrediting bodies.
Cambridge International
SAT
British Council
IronSecur
Iteb Africa
Our motto
Lux Mundi et Sal Terrae
The Light of the World and the Salt of the Earth
Lux Mundi et Sal Terrae: "the Light of the World and the Salt of the Earth." It is a call to live with purpose: to bring light where there is confusion, and to preserve what is good in our community.
