Why Choose ISB?

In Junior School, children learn through the IB Primary Years Programme in a warm, active and age-appropriate environment. They build curiosity, confidence and strong foundations in English, maths, inquiry, social skills and wellbeing. Families can choose English with German as an additional language, or the Dual Language Programme (English-German) in the Junior School. 
 

The IB Middle Years Programme helps students connect learning to real questions, personal interests and the world around them. Students strengthen subject knowledge while developing independence, organisation, collaboration and a clearer sense of who they are as learners. Teaching in Middle School is in English, with German as an additional language, and French and Spanish as optional third languages. Starting in 2027, families will also be able to choose a bilingual English-German pathway, through the Dual Language Programme.

In the final years of school, students choose a pathway that supports their strengths, goals and university plans. Many students complete the full IB Diploma Programme, while others take a combination of IB Diploma courses and ISBasel courses. Teachers and university counsellors work with students so they can make informed choices for life after graduation, opening doors both to Swiss and World universities.

ISB students are challenged through three internationally recognised IB programmes and supported to reach their full potential. Families can view the latest academic results, including IB Diploma outcomes, to understand how ISB students perform and where their learning can take them next. 

Our students’ academic excellence is made possible by a team of dedicated teachers, specialists and counsellors, who ensure that each student is supported and challenged to thrive academically, socially and emotionally according to their individual needs. Through multiple activities and initiatives, our students can explore their interests, build confidence and excel beyond the classroom.

English is the primary learning language at ISB, with students also building language skills through German, French and Spanish pathways.

ISB offers a Dual Language Programme (English-German) in Junior School, which will be extended to Middle School in 2027. This bilingual programme gives children the chance to learn both languages in an immersive way and feel more connected to life in Basel. Students who are not in the Dual Language Programme still learn German as a secondary language as part of their school curriculum. Students in Middle and Senior School can also optionally choose French and Spanish as third languages. 
 

University planning at ISB starts with knowing each student individually. Senior School students receive individual guidance on subject choices, applications, interviews and possible destinations in Switzerland and around the world. Families can also view the the School Profile for current academic results and university destinations.

Students, through their maths and science programmes, learn to ask questions, test ideas and solve real problems. Across the school, they develop confidence with numbers, scientific thinking, inquiry and practical problem-solving, building skills they can use in daily life and future study.

Students learn in different ways, and ISB works to understand each child’s strengths, needs and next steps. Learning support helps students access the curriculum, develop confidence and take part in school life as fully as possible. 

Children who are new to English receive “English as an Additional Language” support, helping them improve their English skills to reach the desired academic outcome.  

Children learn best when they feel known, safe and supported. ISB supports wellbeing through individual counsellors, a dedicated wellbeing curriculum, and age-appropriate activities and workshops that help students build confidence, friendship skills, self-awareness and resilience throughout their school years. 

ISB students can explore sport, drama, music, visual arts, robotics, debate, service and more. These opportunities help children discover interests, build friendships, try new challenges and grow as confident members of the school community. 

In addition, a wide range of outdoor education activities allow students to build confidence through real-world discovery and experience in Switzerland, Europe and around the World.

Students participate in Physical and Health Education during the school day and can optionally take part in a wide range of athletics opportunities beyond regular lessons. ISB’s sports culture is inclusive and active, offering training sessions, friendly games and tournaments for students wanting to develop their skills and enjoy being part of a team. Older students with high-level training needs may be eligible to follow the Elite Performance Pathway.

Students can express themselves through music, theatre, visual arts, dance and creative activities. Our arts programme help children develop confidence, focus, collaboration and the courage to share ideas in different ways. 

Technology at ISB supports learning, creativity and collaboration. Students use digital tools to research, design, communicate and solve problems, while learning how to use technology thoughtfully and responsibly. Students can also explore robotics and coding in a fun way, through games and competitions. We support parents with technology guidance to ensure responsible use of technology at home.

Our teachers and students embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) to make learning more engaging and effective, while prioritising responsible and ethical practices to ensure a positive impact on education. Phones are not permitted during school hours in Junior School and Middle School. In Senior School, teachers may allow phone use during lessons when it directly supports learning

ISB offers holiday and child care options that support family life beyond the regular school day. Children can join holiday camps during school breaks, while younger students can access childcare activities after school.

ISB offers a welcoming international community where students, parents and teachers work together in partnership. From the first day at school, ISB helps families make connections, understand school life and feel part of the community. 

ISB does not operate a school bus service because our three campuses are easily connected with tram line 11. ISB families can easily connect with others who live nearby through the school’s Car Sharing tool. This can help families organise shared travel, reduce car journeys and build connections with other parents. 

Yes. ASPIRE, the After School Programme for Inspiration, Recreation and Enrichment, supports younger students after the school day and during extended school holidays. Children have time for snacks, outdoor play, creative activities and calm routines before going home.