Founded in 1958 as a non-profit organisation, BOS imparts a rigorous British curriculum with UK qualified staff.
Over the years BOS has evolved into a fully integrated Primary and Secondary School leading to International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and A Level Years 7–13, following the British system.
The patron of the British Overseas School Association is Her Britannic Majesty's High Commissioner in Islamabad.
The school is managed by a board of 12 governors that includes 4 permanent representatives: the British Deputy High Commissioner in Karachi, the Chairperson of UKAP, the Director of the British Council, the Principal, and 4 elected parent representatives.
The Head Boy and Head Girl are prominent members of the School community, taking a leading role on the Student Council, acting as role models for younger students and as ambassadors for the School.