International School Haarlem - Upper Primary Campus and International School Utrecht are both in Amsterdam, about 46 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and International School Haarlem - Upper Primary Campus also offers IPC, IBCP and BTEC Qualification. Published annual fees are close, at €5,330 - 6,740 for International School Haarlem - Upper Primary Campus and €4,820 - 7,700 for International School Utrecht. Both take pupils from 4 to 18. International School Utrecht is the larger school, with around 1,150 pupils to International School Haarlem - Upper Primary Campus's 228. Both keep typical class sizes around 22.
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International School Haarlem - Upper Primary Campus
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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International School Utrecht
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Fees / year
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Fees / year €5,330 - 6,740 | Fees / year €4,820 - 7,700 |
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Age range
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Age range 4 - 18 years | Age range 4 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IPC (International Primary Curriculum), IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), BTEC Qualification | Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) |
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Pupils
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Pupils 228 | Pupils 1,150 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 22 | Typical class size 22 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 2017 | Opened 2012 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location Three campuses in Haarlem: Lower Primary at Buitenrustlaan 9; Upper Primary at Schreveliusstraat 27; MYP 1-5 and DP 1 at Junoplantsoen 58. All campuses are located in Haarlem, The Netherlands. | Location The school is located at Van Deventerlaan 1, 3528 AG Utrecht, Netherlands. It sits in the city of Utrecht in the central Netherlands. The Utrecht International Centre information desk is located in Stadskantoor near Utrecht Central Station, illustrating proximity to transit and services for international families. |
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Stages
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Stages Lower Primary (Groups 1-3, ages 4-6); Upper Primary (Groups 4-7, ages 6-11); MYP 1-5 and DP 1 (ages 11-18). | Stages The school offers three IB programmes: Primary Years Programme (4–11), Middle Years Programme (11–16) and Diploma Programme (16–18). The Primary Years Programme covers ages 4–11, the Middle Years Programme covers ages 11–16, and the Diploma Programme covers ages 16–18. |
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School type
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School type Day IB World School offering the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-related Programme (CP), and Diploma Programme (DP) in Secondary. | School type The school is an IB World School. It offers the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix Over 50 nationalities represented; over 35 languages spoken; English is the working language. | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support Inclusive, personalised approach with support for diverse learning needs, including those with learning difficulties, disabilities or medical needs. A learning support structure with in-class support, 1-to-1 and small group interventions, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support; resources and ICT to enhance curriculum accessibility. | Additional learning support The school provides additional educational needs support through an inclusion team that includes school counsellors, inclusion coaches and a specialist. The school provides learning support services through the inclusion team, including in-class support, small group support and, where needed, individual support. The school uses a three-tier inclusion framework to organise interventions and progress monitoring. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation — | Country affiliation The Netherlands. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure To allow travel between sites, start and end times are staggered by campus. Lower Primary (Buitenrustlaan): doors open 08:05, lessons begin 08:15, 10:15-10:30 break, 11:45-12:45 lunch, dismissal 14:30 (12:15 on Wednesdays). Upper Primary (Schreveliusstraat): doors open 08:25, lessons begin 08:30, 10:30-10:45 break, 11:45-12:45 lunch, dismissal 14:45 (12:30 on Wednesdays). MYP 1-5 and DP 1-2: doors open 08:45, registration 08:50, 11:00-11:20 break, 13:20-13:50 lunch, dismissal 15:50 (MYP) and 17:00 (DP) with occasional clubs 16:00-17:00; Wednesdays have earlier dismissal times (MYP 13:20; DP around 14:20). | School day structure The school starts Kindergarten and Primary with drop-off at 8:00 and first lessons at 8:30. The school notes Secondary travel by bike and may use public transport if coming from further away; the day includes timetable-based lessons, self-study periods and field trips. The school is mobile-free, with devices put away during the day. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details — | Bus service details Public transport is available via bus, tram and train (U-OV and NS) in Utrecht and the surrounding area. Many students travel by bike, and those from further away may rely on public transport. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application / Registration fee - A one‑time non‑refundable registration (pre‑registration) fee of EUR 200 per student is charged at application. Deposit - A refundable deposit of EUR 500 per student is charged on the first invoice for new students. The deposit is refundable on withdrawal only if all school fees have been paid, correct notice has been given, and school property is returned in good condition; refunds may take up to 10 working weeks and any international transfer charges are applied to the recipient. Tuition fees — Primary (Groups 1–7) — academic year amount and month‑of‑start scale - Full annual tuition for Primary (Groups 1–7) is EUR 5,330 per year (100% for students enrolling in August/September). - If a child starts later in the academic year the tuition due is pro rata according to the month of enrolment as follows (amounts shown are the tuition charged for that month of enrolment): - August / September: EUR 5,330 (100%). - October: EUR 5,330 (100%). - November: EUR 4,799 (90%). - December: EUR 4,268 (80%). - January: EUR 3,737 (70%). - February: EUR 3,206 (60%). - March: EUR 2,675 (50%). - April: EUR 2,144 (40%). - May: EUR 1,613 (30%). - June / July: EUR 1,082 (20%). - An annual School Yearbook cost of EUR 20 is included in tuition and is not eligible for a late‑start discount. Tuition fees — Secondary (MYP / DP) — academic year amounts and month‑of‑start scale - MYP1–MYP4 (Middle Years Programme years 1–4): full annual tuition is EUR 6,660 (100% for August/September start). Field trip fee and the admin/deposit rules apply as below; pro rata tuition is applied by month of enrolment as listed. - August / September: EUR 6,660 (100%). - October: EUR 6,660 (100%). - November: EUR 5,996 (90%). - December: EUR 5,332 (80%). - January: EUR 4,668 (70%). - February: EUR 4,004 (60%). - March: EUR 3,340 (50%). - April: EUR 2,676 (40%). - May: EUR 2,012 (30%). - June / July: EUR 1,348 (20%). - MYP5 (final MYP year): full annual tuition is EUR 6,660 (100%), with separate E‑Assessment and field‑trip charges depending on enrolment timing as listed below. Pro rata tuition by month of enrolment follows the same percentage schedule as MYP1–4; the E‑Assessment fee is applied as shown. - MYP5 field trip fee (example values in fee schedule): typically EUR 540 (for August/September enrolments) and pro rata adjustments for later starts are listed in the fee table. MYP5 E‑Assessment fees are shown as EUR 415 (subject to the enrolment month schedule in the table). - DP1 (IB Diploma Programme year 1): full annual tuition is EUR 6,740 (100% for August/September start). Field trip fee is listed as EUR 540 and DP exam fees for DP1 in 2025–2026 are shown as EUR 0 for that year; deposit and admin fees apply as below. The last admission date for new DP1 students for the 2025–2026 year is specified as 30 September. - DP2 (IB Diploma Programme year 2, returning students only): full annual tuition is EUR 6,740 (100% for August/September start). A DP graduation fee of EUR 150 and DP exam fees of EUR 670 (for 2025–2026) are listed in the fee schedule for DP2. New DP2 transfer applications are not accepted. Additional / ancillary fees and typical charges - Field trip fees: charged per year group and vary by year and month of enrolment; amounts are listed in the fee schedules and cover transportation, entrance fees and occasionally accommodation. Example values: MYP1–4 field trip fee commonly EUR 320 (for early enrolment months) and EUR 280 for some later months; MYP5 and DP field trip fees listed as EUR 540 for August/September starts. - E‑Assessment / exam fees: MYP5 E‑Assessment fee listed as EUR 415; DP2 examination fees listed as EUR 670; DP1 exam fees are shown as EUR 0 for 2025–2026. - Yearbook: EUR 20 per student is included in tuition (no discount for late starts). - Laptop requirement for new Secondary students: new secondary students require a laptop provided via The Rent Company (details and timing communicated by the IT Team). The cost for laptop rental/purchase is arranged separately from tuition. - Company invoice fee: EUR 25 per invoice when an invoice is issued to an employer/third party or when paying in two instalments (admin fee). - Family discounts: the school applies fee reductions for large families — a 30% discount for the third (and youngest) child and a 40% discount for the fourth (and youngest) child attending the school concurrently; discounts apply to the specified child only. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices must be paid in advance to guarantee places. Payment options for the academic year include: (A) pay in full by the invoice date (or by 1 June for returning students), or (B) pay in two instalments (option available if enrolled before 1 October). When paying in two instalments the first instalment is 50% of tuition plus the EUR 25 admin fee (and EUR 500 deposit for new students) by 1 June (or within 14 days of invoice for new students); the remaining 50% is due by 31 October. New students starting after the year begins must usually pay the full invoice (including deposit) within 14 days of invoice date. - Payment method: payment can only be made by bank transfer to the school's account at Rabobank (IBAN: NL64 RABO 0316 370 223; BIC: RABONL2U). For international transfers the school requires the OUR instruction so that transfer charges are paid by the sender. Receipts are available via the school's Open Apply invoicing/account system. Boarding fees - The school's published materials list campus locations for Primary and Secondary and do not include any boarding provision or boarding charges; boarding fees are therefore not applicable. Refunds and withdrawal notice requirements - If a student is withdrawn before their scheduled start date, 90 days' written notice from the original start date is required to obtain a full refund of tuition and the deposit; failure to provide 90 days' notice will result in no refund. For withdrawal between August and March a 60‑day notice is required and refunds of the annual tuition are applied on a sliding scale depending on the month the student leaves. Example refund percentages (month of leaving) are as follows: - September–November: 50% refunded of the annual tuition. - December–January: 40% refunded. - February (Primary): 30% refunded; (Secondary schedule shows February–March at 20% refunded; check the relevant year‑group schedule for exact percentage). - March: 20% refunded (Primary); April–July: 0% refunded. - The deposit return is conditional on fee settlement, correct notice and return of school property; refunds can take up to 10 working weeks and international transfer charges for refunds are applied to the recipient. These notice and refund rules are stated separately for Primary and Secondary fee agreements. Consequences of non‑payment - Failure to pay invoices when due may result in a student being moved to the waiting list (placement no longer guaranteed), withholding of certificates/transcripts, suspension from participation in lessons, referral to debt‑collection, and denial of subsequent year placement until fees are cleared. Summary of key payment amounts (selected highlights) - Registration fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): EUR 200 per student. - Refundable deposit for new students: EUR 500 per student (applied to first invoice). - Primary (Groups 1–7) annual tuition (100%): EUR 5,330. - MYP (secondary) annual tuition (typical full year): EUR 6,660. - DP annual tuition (DP1 / DP2 full year): EUR 6,740. (End of fee overview.) | Fee details Application & enrolment fees - Application fee (non-refundable): EUR 250. - Enrolment fee / deposit for new students (payable in advance): EUR 750. This enrolment fee serves as the deposit once the child starts school and is non-refundable if you decline the offered place. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per-term instalment amounts) Note: instalment payments are structured as four equal payments (25% each) when instalments are used; amounts below show the annual fee and the value of one instalment (25%). - Primary (KG1 – Grade 5) - Annual tuition for existing students: EUR 4,820. - Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,205. - New-student first invoice: Annual tuition EUR 4,820 + Enrolment fee EUR 750 = Total invoice EUR 5,570 (enrolment fee payable in advance). - Secondary — MYP (Grades 6–10) - Annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,050. - Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,512.50. - New-student first invoice: Annual tuition EUR 6,050 + Enrolment fee EUR 750 = Total invoice EUR 6,800. - Secondary — DP (Grades 11 and 12) - Grade 11 annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,950. Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,737.50. - Grade 12 annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,950. Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,737.50. - DP examination fee (Grade 12): EUR 800 (additional one-off fee invoiced for DP exam). - New-student first invoices: Grade 11 = EUR 6,950 + EUR 750 enrolment = EUR 7,700; Grade 12 = EUR 6,950 + EUR 800 DP exam fee = EUR 7,750 (enrolment fee not applicable for Grade 12 new intake as listed). Billing schedule and payment terms - Four payment options are accepted: - Full payment by direct debit. - Payment by direct debit in instalments (available for students starting at the beginning of the academic year). - Manual payment by parent within 14 days of the invoice date. - Manual payment by company within 14 days of the invoice date. Parents remain ultimately responsible for payment regardless of any employer commitment. - Instalment timing (direct debit instalments): - 25% due by end of September; 25% due by end of October; 25% due by end of November; 25% due by end of December. An administration charge of EUR 10 applies for payment by instalment. Full fee settlement is required by the stated deadline in the invoice schedule. - Bank/payment details and instructions: - The school uses separate bank accounts for primary and secondary invoicing; payments must clearly display the student's full name and invoice number. Primary (PYP) IBAN: NL28RABO0182469549 (SPOUtrecht). Secondary (MYP/DP) IBAN: NL04RABO0356552195 (NUOVO). BIC: RABONL2U. Bank address: Rabobank Utrecht, Beneluxlaan 31-33, 3526 KK Utrecht. - Non-payment consequences: - Failed direct debits may lead to termination of the direct debit agreement; outstanding debts are transferred to a debt collection agency and additional costs will be charged to the parent/legal guardian. Persistent non-payment may result in referral of the student to the national education system. Boarding fees - Boarding: Not applicable. International School Utrecht operates as a day school and does not provide boarding facilities. Other costs and optional fees - MYP e-Assessment (external moderation / invoiced separately): - Partial e-Assessment (per course): EUR 60. - Personal Project and Interdisciplinary Assessment: EUR 120. - e-Assessment certificate (8 components): EUR 420. - Items and activities excluded from the standard tuition fee (invoiced separately): - External tuition and tutoring, School Supported Self-Taught (SSST) language tuition and materials, after-school clubs, home language lessons, Pamoja fees, optional overnight stays, and some optional activities. - Laptop requirement and cost responsibility: - All students from Grade 6 upwards are expected to have an Apple MacBook for school use; families must purchase this device themselves. The school operates an Apple webshop option and recommends purchasing insurance and repairs (36-month cover option available via the school webshop). Any purchase and insurance cost is borne by the family. - After-school activities, optional overnight trips and some assessments are charged separately and will appear on later invoices as required. Discounts and fee reductions - Sibling discount: Families with three or more children attending the school receive a 30% reduction on school fees starting from the third child and for each additional child thereafter. - Mid-year starter fee reduction (prorated scale when students start after the academic year begins): - Full amount if start in August or September. - 90% if start in October; 80% November; 70% December; 60% January; 50% February; 40% March; 30% April; 20% May/June. Refunds and deposit return - Refunds for leaving during the school year (percentage of the annual tuition refunded depending on month of departure): - August–December: 50% refund. - January: 40% refund. - February: 30% refund. - March: 20% refund. - April: 10% refund. - May–July: no refund. Note: specific departure procedures and the leaving form must be completed to process refunds. - Deposit return: - Thirty (30) days' notice via the leaving form is required to return the deposit. The deposit is reimbursed only when all financial obligations are met and school property is returned. Families who have re-enrolled and then cancel after 1 June are not eligible for deposit return except where ISU recommends an alternative programme. Fee payment methods (summary) - Accepted/available payment methods: direct debit (full or instalments), manual bank transfer/payment by parent, or manual payment by company within 14 days of invoice. Direct debit creditor IDs appear on statements; separate creditor IDs are used for primary and secondary billing. Credit/debit card payment is not listed as a standard payment method in the standard terms and conditions. An administration charge of EUR 10 applies for instalment plans. Administrative notes - Instalment payments are available only for students starting at the beginning of the academic year; instalment processing carries a EUR 10 administration fee and must be fully settled by the deadline stated in the invoice schedule. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement The school does not have a uniform; students do not wear a school uniform. | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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Food options The school does not operate a canteen. All students have snack and lunch at school. In Primary, parents can sign up for a paid warm lunch provided by Tommy Tomato. | Food options Primary students eat their packed lunch in the classroom and have a morning snack break. Secondary students often bring their own packed lunch, which they may heat up at school; they can also order a salad or sandwich from an external catering company set up in the school. Secondary lunch runs 12:45-13:30. |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership The school is a Dutch subsidised international school established by TWijs and IRIS, supported by the City Council in Haarlem; it is governed by the TWijs and IRIS boards and is a member of the Dutch International Schools (DIS) group. | Governance and ownership ISU is a Dutch International School governed by two cooperating local school boards: SPO Utrecht (primary) and NUOVO Scholen (secondary). |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details International School Haarlem offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-Related Programme (CP), and Diploma Programme (DP) in Secondary. The school is authorized as an IB World School. | Curriculum details ISU is an IB World Continuum school offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The PYP is inquiry-based and transdisciplinary, with student voice and ownership of learning, using units of inquiry that integrate mathematics and language while developing international-mindedness. The MYP develops active, internationally-minded learners through inquiry into local, national and global issues, organized into eight subject groups; in Grade 10 students begin more individualized pathways to prepare for the DP. The DP comprises six subject groups plus a core of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), with many subjects offered at Higher Level and Standard Level. ISU is a state-subsidised Dutch international school accredited by the International Baccalaureate and the Council of International Schools, and taught in a Dutch setting. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results Class of 2025: 77 registered in May; 75 passed; 97% passing rate; 4 registered in November with 100% passing rate for the cohort including November; ISU average points 32.2; highest score 45; 17 bilingual diplomas. Class of 2024: 63 registered; 63 passed; 100% passing rate; bilingual diplomas 18; worldwide May session passing rate 80%; ISU average 31.6; highest 43. Class of 2023: 50 registered; 49 passed; 98% passing rate including November retake; bilingual diplomas 18; worldwide May session 79%; ISU average 31.5; highest 43. Graduates have enrolled in universities including Imperial College London, TU Delft, University College London (UCL), London School of Economics (LSE), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Utrecht University (UU), University College Roosevelt, University of Galway, University of Hong Kong, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and others. |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression The Next Steps Programme guides students after MYP5. In DP1 and DP2, academic counsellors support university applications, including arranging Go-Abroad Fair visits in Utrecht and providing information on university Open Days, transcripts, reference letters, and predicted grades. | Higher education progression Graduates pursue higher education at universities around the world. ISU alumni study at institutions such as Imperial College London, TU Delft, University College London, LSE, University of Amsterdam (UvA), Utrecht University (UU), University College Roosevelt, University of Galway, University of Hong Kong, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and others. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented Inclusivity is provided through Learning Support. The school supports English as an Additional Language, and students who are working at a significantly higher level than age-related expectations, or identified as gifted, may be placed on the Learning Support Register with a tailored plan. | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning International School Haarlem is an inclusive school with a personalised approach to the diverse learning needs of students, including those with learning difficulties, disabilities or medical needs. A clear and responsive support structure exists where teachers, tutors and Student Support staff work together to identify and remove barriers to learning. Support provision is planned and regularly reviewed, taking into account the views of the individual student and their parents/guardians. The safeguarding team handles social‑emotional concerns for the school. The safeguarding team for social‑emotional concerns includes Janine Ric‑Hansen, Clare Peterkin, Hannah Mansbridge and Mirjam van den Berg. | Social & emotional learning The school creates a positive and supportive environment that fosters belonging and well-being. The IB programmes are designed to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all learners. The Inclusion Team provides learning support, early intervention, in-class support, small-group and individual interventions. Student voice is encouraged and involved in planning and reviewing learning. A multilingual approach supports access to the curriculum and social inclusion. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) International School Haarlem operates as a mainstream school with a personalised approach to learning diversity. Admission depends on the applicant's needs and the school's ability to meet them within a mainstream setting and to enable benefit from the MYP curriculum. Learning Support includes 1‑to‑1 and small group targeted interventions, resources and ICT to support curriculum accessibility, and in‑class support by skilled support assistants. Primary Inclusion focuses on enabling all children to achieve academically, emotionally and socially through high‑quality teaching, differentiation, strategies to support neurodiversity, and access to appropriate resources. English as an Additional Language is supported with small group EAL lessons taught by a specialised EAL teacher, access to texts and vocabulary prior to lessons, and resources to support curriculum accessibility. | Special educational needs (SEN) Additional educational needs refer to groups who may face barriers to education and learning. Categories include communication & interaction; cognition & learning; social, emotional and mental health difficulties; and sensory and/or physical needs. The inclusion framework uses three tiers to provide instruction and interventions at increasing levels of intensity. The Inclusion Team delivers learning support through consultation, observation, in-class support, small-group and individual support. ISU collaborates with regional support networks for Primary and Secondary and has a school doctor and nurse appointed by the municipality, coordinating with the Attendance officer and Buurtteam as needed. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language English as an Additional Language is valued and teachers are skilled in welcoming and supporting students who are new to English. Students who are new to English or developing academic English receive support in small group EAL lessons with a specialised EAL teacher, have access to texts and vocabulary prior to lessons, and benefit from resources to support curriculum accessibility in the classroom. | English as an additional language The language of instruction is English; all classes are taught in English, except Dutch Language Acquisition and secondary Spanish Language Acquisition. A multilingual approach recognises the value of home languages and multilingual learning. The school provides an English Language Acquisition (ELA) program for learners whose first language is not English; in primary, specialist ELA teachers work with classroom teachers with stand-alone ELA sessions. In secondary, students join English Language Acquisition (ENLA) classes and attend stand-alone ELA sessions in the Language Hub. Students may be asked to take a language assessment as part of enrolment. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is addressed through a focus on promoting positive self‑esteem and enjoyment of learning. A safeguarding team is available to support social‑emotional concerns. Staff responsibilities include creating a safe and respectful learning environment and supporting student wellbeing. The school provides digital safeguarding guidelines and codes of conduct for ICT use, with guidance for both students and parents. Safeguarding policies include reporting procedures for safeguarding concerns, including cases of domestic violence and child abuse. | Mental wellbeing Well-being is central to student success; the school provides a positive, safe and supportive environment to help students thrive. The Inclusion Team, including school counsellors and inclusion coaches, delivers support for social-emotional and mental health needs, with early intervention where possible. Student voice is encouraged in planning and reviewing learning to foster resilience and belonging. The school also provides health support through a school doctor and nurse appointed by the municipality and coordinates with local services as needed. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding The Wellbeing and Safeguarding Protocol establishes Codes of Conduct to safeguard against discrimination, sexual harassment and violence. A safeguarding team handles social‑emotional concerns and is responsible for safeguarding procedures. Digital safeguarding is addressed through an ICT code of conduct for students (and a signed agreement for parents), with disciplinary actions for breaches. The protocol provides reporting steps for suspected abuse and mandates reporting to authorities when required. Personal data handling follows GDPR guidance, with data access limited to what is legally required and necessary for safeguarding and education. Volunteers and staff are subject to background checks, including Certificates of Good Conduct (VOG) where applicable. | Safeguarding The school takes safeguarding seriously with annual safeguarding and child protection training for all staff; a safeguarding lead and an inclusion team ensure school-wide focus. A safe learning environment is maintained; staff require a Police Clearance Certificate (VOG) and recruitment includes reference checks. Staff are trained to identify and respond to signs of abuse or neglect and take appropriate action, including involving local or international authorities when necessary. The school provides for trainees with an intensive guidance procedure; trainees must provide a valid VOG before entering their traineeship. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The school operates across three Haarlem locations: Buitenrustlaan 9 for Lower Primary, Schreveliusstraat 27 for Upper Primary, and Junoplantsoen 58 for Secondary. The Libraries provide fiction and non-fiction, with magazines and a multilingual selection reflecting the international student body. The Libraries serve as learning hubs with magazines, online resources, and IT equipment such as printers, iPads, cameras, headphones, and Chromebooks, and staff assist with research and referencing. In Primary, the Oxford Reading Tree system supports literacy development and the library supports language development activities. ISH is an IB World School offering the International Primary Curriculum in Primary and the MYP, CP, and DP in Secondary. | Facilities overview The school operates from a temporary two-storey campus at Van Deventerlaan 1 in Utrecht Papendorp, with room for 1,200 students. A large temporary sports hall at the rear serves both primary and secondary students. Construction is underway for a new, purpose-built campus at Utrecht Science Park on Cambridgelaan 101 and is scheduled to be fully operational in 2027. The new campus will include indoor and outdoor sports facilities and a theatre, as well as spaces for science labs, visual arts and design, music studios, and outdoor learning. Regular building updates are published. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Every MYP student has a two-hour practical Physical & Health Education (PHE) lesson each week, with sessions taking place in the school hall or outside on the fields. Students need gym shoes with non-marking soles, appropriate clothing, a towel, and a gym bag for PHE/PE. The Extracurricular Programme includes Olympic Moves, where students compete against peers from other Dutch schools; in 2024 the basketball team performed very well. BSJ and Sports Days are organized to celebrate culture and share community involvement through sports activities. | Sports facilities The school has a large temporary sports hall at the rear of the Papendorp campus used by both primary and secondary students. The temporary campus includes a two-storey building with space for 1,200 students. The new Utrecht Science Park campus will feature dedicated indoor and outdoor sports facilities. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities The school is an IB World School, offering IPC in Primary and the MYP, CP, and DP in Secondary. Primary literacy is supported by the Oxford Reading Tree system, with the library hosting language development activities. The Libraries offer magazines, online resources, and IT equipment (printers, iPads, cameras, headphones, Chromebooks) with staff guidance for research and referencing, providing a safe space to work or collaborate. The working language is English, with English Language Acquisition and support available as needed; DP language courses and language development initiatives are described in policy materials. Secondary students are required to bring a laptop to school, and Essential information for the student experience is published in ManageBac and the ISH School Guide available to families. | Academic facilities The new campus will offer indoor and outdoor sports facilities and a theatre. It will provide comfortable classrooms, science labs, visual arts and design spaces, music studios, and green spaces for outdoor learning. It will also provide spaces for independent learning and social spaces. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Secondary year groups go on residentials in the Netherlands and abroad, with team-building exercises to foster community. ISH hosts International Days and Sports Days to celebrate culture and sport. Students participate in Model United Nations (MUN) and Olympic Moves, with competitive events against other Dutch schools; in 2024 the basketball team performed exceptionally well. After-school clubs include language-focused activities, debate, newspaper clubs, bullet journaling, and more, all designed to support language development and diverse interests. | Extra curricular facilities After School Activities (ASA's) are run over two terms from September until February and from March until June. ASA's organised by ISU include Home Language Clubs (Grades 1-5) with languages such as Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish, and music programs including a private instrumental lessons program and the ISU Music Academy with seven musical projects across levels. Other ISU activities include Ballet (KG & Gr1), Chess (Gr1–5), Crochet (Gr3–5), Drama (Gr2–5), Football (Gr1–5), Guruscool Abacus (Gr1–5), and Photo Club (Gr3–5). Kind & Co Ludens offers varying after-school activities, including arts & crafts. Sign-ups are via a school app shortly before activities begin. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History ISH opened its doors in September 2017 with a primary department. In 2018, its first cohort of secondary students began their learning journey in Haarlem. The school is an IB World School. It offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-related Programme (CP), and Diploma Programme (DP) for secondary students. | History — |
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Community
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Community ISH aims to develop a community of caring, compassionate, honest, open-minded global citizens who engage with the world on local and global scales. The school provides dynamic, world-recognised teaching programmes with inquiry-based learning at the core and encourages participation in matters of worldwide interest and service activities. It emphasises positive personal and learning values, guides students to reach their potential as thinkers and lifelong learners, and maintains a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of the school community. | Community ISU fosters a connected Utrecht community. The Utrecht International Centre information desk is located in Stadskantoor near Utrecht Central Station, is open five days a week, and helps with residency permits/visas and registration with the municipality. ISU highlights the expat community by listing organizations such as International Women's Contact Utrecht, Utrecht mamas, Expats in Utrecht, Expats Utrecht, Make the Most of Utrecht, Expatica, Access and Iamexpat, and English-language news sources like Holland Times and Dutch News. The school community participates in celebrations of learning, school festivals, concerts and whole-school celebrations. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association The Parent Committee is a group of volunteer parents who contribute their time, talent and passion to make a difference in the school community. Current team: Chair – Mercedes Hualli; Secretary – Nada Wouters; Treasurer – Lydia Bruwer. The committee organizes events throughout the year to bring families together, including International Day, Bake Sales, Coffee Mornings, Seasonal Event Celebrations and the Summer Feest, and helps welcome new parents and foster belonging. The Committee relies on volunteers to run these events; to get involved contact ishparentcommittee@gmail.com. | Parent teacher association The Parent Support Group (PSG) helps parents connect by organizing monthly events such as coffee mornings, daytime outings and evening drinks, and supports parent clubs including running club, language club and book club. PSG can be contacted at psg@parent.isutrecht.nl. New Parent Connectors assist new parents with school information and link them with Grade parents. Each primary class has at least one parent representative who works with the teacher to recruit volunteers for class activities and excursions. ISU also has a Participation Council (PC) that includes staff, parents and students and advises on school vision and planning; PC regulations were updated in June 2024, and annual reports for 2022–23, 2023–24 and 2024–25 are available. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual International School Haarlem offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Career-Related Programme (CP), and the Diploma Programme (DP) for secondary students. The school is authorized as an IB World School. The learning philosophy centers on high-quality, challenging international education and the development of global citizens. The curriculum emphasises inquiry-based learning and the ability to think critically and act with empathy about local and global issues. | Academic & intellectual ISU participates in the National Educational Fair (NOT) with a Design Team from Grades 8–9 that demonstrates 3D printing, laser cutting, soldering and coding for Junior IOT. The library provides personalised support for research, academic writing, referencing and responsible technology use. The language of instruction is English, and an English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme helps learners whose first language is not English access the curriculum. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Art and music are integral to the curriculum. Expressive arts and design is a core area of learning in Early Years, and Art and Music feature prominently in the Primary IPC framework. Primary Music develops singing, music notation, creation and recording of music, and exploration of music from around the world, linking musical learning to IPC topics. Art and music are embedded in IPC themes across the Primary curriculum. | Arts & creative ISU has an ambitious music programme for KG-Grade 9 delivered by an experienced music team. The ISU Music Academy runs group lessons and private instrumental lessons and includes seven musical projects. Private instrumental lessons cover vocal, drums, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, guitar, violin/viola, cello and piano, with after-school lessons available. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Language acquisition includes English, French, Spanish and Dutch. In Primary Years, English and Mathematics are taught using the English National Curriculum, while the IPC provides a thematic, multi-disciplinary approach to learning that nurtures internationally minded, globally competent citizens. The IPC aims to develop adaptability, empathy, ethics, resilience, respect, communication, collaboration and thinking across cultures. | Cultural & language Home Language Clubs for Grades 1–5 are offered after school, including languages such as Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish. English is the language of instruction, with an English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme to help learners whose first language is not English access the curriculum. The language acquisition approach supports multilingual learning and curriculum access. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies The Extracurricular Programme includes International Days that celebrate culture and diversity, and Building Social Justice Days that bring in local and global communities to discuss societal issues. Students participate in Model United Nations (MUN) to practice dialogue and consensus, and in Olympic Moves to compete in various sports. Secondary students also undertake residential trips and team-building activities to develop teamwork and social skills. | Social & hobbies After School Activities & Care offers Ballet (KG & Gr1), Chess (Gr1–5), Crochet (Gr3–5), Drama (Gr2–5), Football (Gr1–5) and Photo Club (Gr3–5). Home Language Clubs are available as part of ASA with languages including Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish. ISU Running Group provides a weekly social run for parents, with coffee and chat after the run. |
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Community & service
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Community & service International Days celebrate culture and diversity, reflecting the school's inclusive, international community. Building Social Justice Days engage local and global communities to address poverty, diversity and women's rights. Community engagement is a core component of the CP and is emphasized alongside other core CP elements such as language and culture studies. | Community & service Service as Action (SAA) is an integral part of the Middle Years Programme at ISU, giving students aged 11-16 the chance to learn and grow through community service. SAA projects include volunteering at local soup kitchens and fundraising for causes, with students choosing projects that hold personal significance. SAA develops critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration and leadership, following a four-step process from investigation to action. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional The Career-Related Programme (CP) offers a broad, flexible education with a career-related study (Business) and a career-related core comprising personal and professional skills, the reflective project, community engagement and language and culture studies. CP aims to develop higher-order thinking, practical knowledge and employability. Academic counselling supports students with Next Steps planning, university visits, and application timelines after MYP5 and during the DP years. | Leadership & professional SAA fosters leadership and professional skills through project coordination and teamwork. Students take active roles in planning and managing SAA projects. ISU's student-led design team has represented the school at external events, such as the National Educational Fair (NOT). The SAA program is led by a dedicated coordinator who guides the projects. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Health and Wellbeing is a named area within the Primary IPC framework. Physical Education is provided to all Primary students, with two hours per week of specialist time, covering Games, Athletics, Gymnastics, Health-Related Fitness and Dance. P.E. lessons are linked to IPC units to promote healthy, active lifestyles. The school also supports wellbeing through inclusive practices, including English as an Additional Language support where needed. | Lifestyle & wellbeing ISU Running Group offers a weekly social run for parents, promoting fitness and community. Grade 2 students participate in swimming lessons as part of the school's safety and wellbeing program. Mental well-being is addressed in ISU's educational events, such as themes highlighted at the National Educational Fair (NOT) 2025. After School Activities & Care support wellbeing through structured activities and care. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision English is the language of instruction for all students. English Language Acquisition (EAL) support is provided for learners who start with little or no English, and all MYP students study English and Dutch. MYP Language Acquisition courses are offered in English, Dutch, French and Spanish, and all MYP students study French or Spanish as LA in addition to English and Dutch. In the Diploma Programme, Dutch is compulsory for DP students who hold only a Dutch passport; DP offers Dutch Language & Literature and English Language & Literature, with SSST Language A: Literature and additional language options including French and Spanish. | Language provision ISU uses English as the language of instruction, with Dutch Language Acquisition and Spanish Language Acquisition taught as separate language courses. An English Language Acquisition (ELA) program supports learners whose first language is not English in both primary and secondary. In secondary, English Language Acquisition (ENLA) classes and a Language Hub provide ongoing language support, and students may be required to take a language assessment during enrolment. Home Language Clubs and Home Languages Week celebrate multilingualism. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching No bilingual teaching; English is the language of instruction. Dutch Language Acquisition and Spanish Language Acquisition are taught as separate language subjects. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations IB World School (authorized to offer the IB Middle Years Programme, Career-related Programme and Diploma Programme). | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions International School Haarlem offers primary and secondary education in an English-speaking environment and welcomes applications from students worldwide who need international education. Admission follows national regulations for the Dutch International School. A student is admitted if they meet at least one of these conditions: the student has a non-Dutch nationality and a parent working in the Netherlands for a limited time; the student has Dutch nationality and has attended an international school abroad for at least two years because a parent was stationed abroad; or Dutch nationality and a parent who will be stationed abroad within two years of admission for at least two years, confirmed in writing by the employer. Prospective families submit a pre-application via Open Apply; completing the pre-application is required before requesting a school visit. For 2025-2026, there are no spaces left in MYP and DP; there are some spaces in Primary. The school will respond within 10 working days if eligible for admission, and a start date and visit can be arranged. A school visit can be scheduled once the application is complete and the registration fee has been paid; visits are on Tuesday 9:00-11:00 (Primary and MYP1-5), Thursday 9:00-11:00 (Primary and MYP 1-5), and Friday 12:20-13:20 (CP/DP). School visits are available throughout the year, with a 2–3 week waiting time to book a visit. Phone bookings are not accepted. The school offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-Related Programme (CP) and Diploma Programme (DP) in secondary, and is IB World School authorized. | Admissions Get in touch. We would like to get to know your child(ren). Please contact our admissions team through OpenApply, our admissions portal. This initial contact starts the admissions process. Providing documentation. When you start the admissions process, we will ask you to upload information about the languages your child(ren) speak(s) and their educational background. This documentation helps the admissions team understand your child(ren)'s profile. Submitting the information advances you to the next stage of the process. Application stage. We will talk to you and look at your documentation to make sure that there is a good match between the school's educational provision and your child(ren)'s needs. The admissions team may discuss next steps and timelines with you. You will be updated as the process progresses. Welcome and onboarding. Once placement is confirmed, you will receive welcome information. On your starting date, you will be welcomed by the admissions team and join an induction meeting. Your child(ren) will be welcomed and supported by their classroom teacher or mentor. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships — | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
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