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Frequently Asked Questions
- My child is currently in a very different school system. How will the School know what level of work he/she is capable of?
During the admissions process, the Admissions Officer together with the relevant principal or Head of Pre-School examines all the school reports and documents. This gives us a good picture of your child and his/her abilities. Our experienced staff are familiar with many different school systems. We may also take into consideration the recommendations from your child’s previous school. If we need more information, we will contact you before your child is offered a place at ISB.
- How does the School inform me of my child’s progress?
The School keeps you fully in the picture. Twice a year the School conducts parent/teacher/student conferences where the 3-way dialogue gives a good indication as to how your child is performing. The School also issues 2 semester reports and in Senior School, 2 additional interim reports.
- Does the School have any standardised testing every year? If not, when and how will I know if my child has been tested?
The School does not conduct standardised testing every year. Subject tests are done regularly to assess student progress and ensure that the expected learning is acquired. In Grade 3, students will sit for the ACER standardised tests, which provide a benchmark in both numeracy and literacy skills. At the end of Grade 10, students take the Middle Years Programme certificate exams. By the end of Grade 12, students take the International Baccalaureate Diploma and certificate exams.
- How does ISB perform in comparison with other high performing international schools?
ISB has consistently attained a success rate of 90% or above in the IB Diploma in the past years. This excellent achievement compares well with the worldwide average of 79% in 2009.
- Which universities do our graduates attend?
Our graduates go to universities around the world, with the UK, US and Canada being the most popular destinations. A full list of universities where our graduates have been accepted can be found on the universities placement page.
- What kind of international experience and qualifications do teachers at ISB have?
Our team of highly dedicated, experienced and qualified teachers come from all over the world. Currently, about 20 nationalities are represented with the majority coming from the UK, USA and Canada. Many ISB teachers have had experience working in other IB schools around the world.
- What is the average class size in each school section?
A typical homeroom size is less than 20 students and depending on the grade level, is often much smaller, especially in upper Middle School and High School. During the academic year, we may go up to a maximum homeroom size of 24 students, but this is very unusual.
- What curriculum does the School offer?
- How does the School monitor its standards?
ISB is accredited by the Council of International Schools and New England Association of Schools and Colleges. ISB undergoes joint accreditation by these organisations. A full re-accreditation takes place every 10 years with a 5-year interim evaluation visit. As an IB school, ISB also undergoes regular evaluation visits and a 5-year review programme by the IB to ensure that implementation of the programme meets the standards established by the IB. ISB is also a member of:
- Will my child fit in when he or she goes to a non-international school after attending ISB?
Yes, we believe that the approaches to learning that students acquire during their time at ISB will help them build confidence to adapt to changes and be resourceful in seeking the knowledge they require. We also keep in touch with our alumni and get to hear about the progress the students are making in their new schools.
- What are examples of typical field trips?
Field trips are organised during the year and are educational activities with identifiable academic objectives where students are expected to attend. Some examples are visits to the Art Museum (Kunstmuseum), Zoo, Science Museum, Jungfrau Glacier, Augusta Raurica (Roman settlement) and the World War One Trenches in France.
- What are the languages taught at the School?
All classes are conducted in English except for language classes.
German is offered from Pre-School, French from Grade 4 and Spanish as a
language option at Grade 6. Students not fluent in English receive regular English as an Additional Language (EAL) instruction to enable them to enter mainstream classes. As part of the IB Diploma Programme,
students may continue to study their native language even if it is not
offered as part of the ISB curriculum. In such cases, students proceed
on a self-taught basis with the assistance of an external language
teacher. The School will help to organize these classes for your child. Additional languages can be studied through the Extra Curricular Program. If you have any issues or concerns in regards to your child, please contact the Admissions Officer for additional information. Please refer to our Financial Regulations for more information.
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