ISF is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS), the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) and British Schools Overseas (BSO), well-regarded educational communities committed to high standards and ensuring high-quality international education.
At ISF, we are deeply committed to the well-being of our entire school community, including students, staff and parents, fostering a supportive and engaging environment for everyone involved. Both ISF Tervuren and ISF Waterloo adopt a holistic approach to education, focusing not only on academic excellence but also on the emotional and social well-being of our students. This comprehensive focus on well-being extends to every member of our school community, fostering a nurturing and positive environment where everyone can thrive.
Our curriculum is inclusive, catering to the diverse needs of all students. We offer specialised support for students with learning difficulties and for those whose first language is not English. This ensures that every student receives the individual attention they need to succeed, fostering a sense of belonging and self-confidence. We prioritise the well-being of our students, creating an environment where they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our comprehensive approach to student well-being includes a variety of programs and services designed to support and enhance their overall school experience.
Our Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) program is a cornerstone of our well-being initiative. Conducted weekly, these interactive lessons cover a broad range of topics, such as healthy eating, relationships, safety, mindfulness, and environmental respect. This program is essential in helping students develop important life skills, as well as essential attitudes and values to support them in their personal growth. Our full-time social counsellor plays a vital role in supporting students' emotional and social needs. He provides one-on-one counselling, teaches a range of our PSHE lessons, and assists with transitions and career guidance for secondary students.
A specialised well-being app builds our student's emotional intelligence, allowing them to reflect weekly on all aspects of their well-being and encourages them to give gratitude to others. This personalised support ensures that each student receives the care and guidance they need to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
As part of our Critical Curriculum, we emphasise real-world learning experiences and global citizenship, preparing students to navigate and contribute to an interconnected world. Projects, field trips, and community involvement initiatives help students understand their role in the global community and develop a sense of purpose and responsibility.
We firmly believe in the importance of student voice, which is why we have an active Student Council on both Campuses. Elected representatives from each school section meet regularly to discuss ideas and plan activities that enhance the school community. This encourages students to take ownership of their school environment and nurtures a sense of responsibility and leadership.
We also offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports and arts to clubs and community service. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build meaningful connections with their peers. Participation in extracurricular activities enhances students' social and emotional well-being, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Our curriculum includes mindfulness practices and mental health education, helping students manage stress and develop emotional regulation skills. By integrating healthy practices into daily routines, we create a calm and focused learning environment where students can thrive academically and emotionally.
At the heart of our curriculum is a supportive school culture that prioritises student well-being. Our teachers, staff and parents are dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where every student feels valued and supported.
The well-being of our staff is paramount. We offer various professional development opportunities and create a supportive work environment. Regular staff meetings and inset days are designed not only for professional growth but also to foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among our educators and administrative staff. We ensure that our staff members have access to the resources and support they need to maintain a healthy work-life balance including regular well-being workshops.
We also recognise the crucial role parents play in their children's educational journey. Our open-door policy encourages parents to be actively involved in school life. We maintain excellent communication with parents through regular updates, meetings, and school events. Our parent's group, the Friends of ISF, helps build a strong sense of community among families.
Social events, such as picnics, cultural celebrations, and family fun days, bring together parents, students, and staff, fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. This sense of belonging is crucial for the well-being and happiness of both students and their families. This partnership is essential in creating a cohesive support system for students, ensuring their academic and personal success.
It also provides a platform for parents to contribute their skills and expertise, whether in organising events, supporting classroom activities, or serving on committees. This engagement fosters a stronger connection to the school and a deeper understanding of the educational process. We also offer our parents the opportunity to attend Mindfulness and Well-being workshops that are designed to support, educate, and practically implement the tools of holistic wellness in everyday life.
At ISF, our focus on well-being is integrated into every aspect of school life, creating a nurturing environment where our whole school community can flourish. For more information, please visit our websites ISF Waterloo and ISF Tervuren.
To book a tour, please contact our Tervuren Campus at office@isftervuren.org or our Waterloo Campus at office@isfwaterloo.org
