Quick summary of key school information
School details
Number of students |
440 |
Number of nationalities represented in the school |
61 |
Most common nationality |
Our student population is very mixed and changes from year to year. Currently we have large groups from Japan, America, Italy and UK, but there is not one nationality that is dominant |
Ratio of local students to international students |
We currently have 14% of our students from the UK |
Native English speaking teachers |
Yes |
Language support for students not fluent in English |
We have an extensive Home Language programme that is integrated into the curriculum. We teach 21 languages at the moment and will find a native speaking language teacher for new students if there is not already one in the school. We also have a programme of English Language Learning for those students who are not so fluent in English (our language of instruction) that runs alongside the curriculum. Parents are invited to English language classes of their own. |
Additional language classes offered by the school |
Although there are more languages spoken in school, ISL offers lessons at mother tongue level in 21 different languages. |
Max. number of students per class |
22 |
Average number of students per class |
15 |
Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
Use of technology in the classroom |
ISL is proud that students and faculty benefit from a technology-rich learning environment which provides:
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Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures) |
ISL moved to Virtual School in advance of the government issued advice about school closures. We used Microsoft teams as the main platform to deliver the virtual classroom, with face-to-face lessons, mentoring, extra-curricular activities, social time, community outreach and service learning opportunities all delivered virtually to the home. |
Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
We are a non-denominational school where everyone is welcome. |
External examinations or assessments available |
IB Diploma |
Results in these examinations |
In 2023 ISL's students scored an average of 33 out of possible 45 points. ISL's 2023 highest score was 43 points. Bilingual diplomas were awarded to 43% of our students in 2023. |
Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes |
Approximate hours of homework given |
It varies according to the year group, and is managed carefully by class tutors to make sure that each student is achieving to their potential. |
Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
100% |
Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes. |
Learning support offered |
We employ specialists in neurodiversity to support the needs of our students. |
The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
Further programmes are available in a variety of subjects. We have particular expertise in further Mathematics. |
Student access to education psychologist |
Yes, this is available at an extra cost if required. |
Entry evaluation for students |
No, we have an inclusive admissions process, with no formal exams or English Language requirements needed. We do, however, ask for references from previous schools to ensure we can cater to any special needs and to place the student in the correct class. |
Waiting list |
No |
Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
We have rolling admissions, with no deadlines for enrolment. Students are supported to join at any time during the year. |
Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes |
School start time |
8.30 |
School finish time |
3.30 |
Supervised care before/after school |
Yes |
School bus service available |
Yes, it is a door to door service |
School provided lunches |
Yes, or they can bring their own lunch. |
Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
All food prepared in the school kitchen is halal. |
Uniform required |
No, except for PE |
Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
ISL offers in excess of 40 clubs per week in a variety of different activities including sports, the arts, technology, sciences, Service Learning, global issues and music. |
Sports activities included |
Football, basketball, volleyball, rugby, tennis, athletics, swimming, boxing and many more. |
Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes. They compete locally and in the International Schools Sports Association (ISSA) tournaments |
Facilities at the school |
Libraries for Primary, Secondary and Diploma College; large hall for music and drama performances; two science labs; music room with numerous instruments; Forest School in Gunnersbury Park for all Primary students and Grade 6. |
Sports facilities at the school |
ISL has partnered with Gunnersbury Park Sports Complex which is a brand new purpose built sports centre a short walk from the school site through Gunnersbury Park. It has a large sports hall, changing rooms, studios, gym, 4G football pitches and grass cricket, rugby and football pitches. |
Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
ISL provides an intercultural community that fosters a passion and enthusiasm for learning through outstanding educational practices, recognised by OFSTED, the IB and CIS.
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Teaching approach of the school |
ISL offers an exceptional world of learning for every student. Starting with a genuinely warm welcome to its multicultural environment, ISL works with each child to devise an individual learning programme tailored to their unique needs and goals. ISL's strong focus on student wellbeing, in a supportive environment, is complemented in the classroom by dynamic teaching practises. It’s this all-round approach that ISL believes leads to the academic and personal success that characterises ISL pupils. |