What are the strengths of the academic programme at ISS?

Holistic and Inclusive Education

• Holistic approach focusing on psychological, social and emotional well-being positively influences higher academic achievement and improves relationships at school and at home
• Well-rounded curriculum coupled with extensive co-curriculars connects learning and guarantees that the students’ education is in tune with their unique skills and needs
• Inclusive Performing (music and drama/theatre) and Visual Arts programme lets students tap into multiple intelligences, express themselves and grow as individuals

Supportive Learning Environment

• Small class sizes (1:9 teacher-to-student ratio) means one-on-one attention and opportunities for individualised guidance and learning
• “Extra help” opportunities where faculty willingly meet with students before, during or after school provides students with individualised help according to their needs
• Caring homeroom teachers, counsellors and an Advisory programme provide a “home base,” helping with transitions and insuring positive teacher contact for students
• Established English as an Additional Language and Learning Support programmes with one-on-one and small group instruction makes for improved learning in other classes

Proven Success and University Preparatory

• History of academic success, including 20 years of successfully delivering the IB Diploma Programme and 30 years of the IGCSE, insures students can choose from a range of courses based on their interests and be surrounded by peers who also value academic achievement
• An experienced faculty where 63% teachers have a masters or PhD means students learn from subject experts and are better prepared for their next move/school or university/college
• Dedicated University and Career Counselling Office means students know the ins and outs of the university/college application process for countries around the world and how to navigate their choices

Innovative Approach

• 1:1 iPad programme in Middle School and 1:1 MacBook Air programme in High School, integrated technology in Primary School and computer science in High School develops digital literacy, digital citizenship, coding and robotics skills – ISS is a leader in Norway regarding use of technology in schools
• Design Technology programme in Middle and High School provides hands-on opportunities to design, develop and make products – a fine example of building real-world creative and technological skills

Experiential and Signature Programmes

• Reggio-inspired and inquiry-based approach in Preschool sparks wonder, creates resilient children and engages the children in joyful learning – a much healthier approach than the lecture setting
• Exploratory programme in Middle School where children are challenged to step outside comfort zones and feel safe doing so
• “Leirskole” – a Norwegian tradition – provides students in Grades 4-8 with remarkable opportunities to experience the outdoors in Norway and grow in confidence
• Academic travel within Norway and in Europe and Asia gives students a chance to learn in realistic contexts, create memories of a lifetime and better understand their responsibilities in this world
• Commitment to service learning means students develop compassion, kindness and a drive to make a positive difference for others

International Mindset

• An international curriculum, foreign language and exchange programmes, the École Maternelle and Dutch (NTC) classes in Primary School broaden global perspectives and prepare students for their next move, whether that is back home or to a new country
• Diversity builds a community of respect and open-mindedness in the classroom – students say learning from others with different backgrounds is a key reason ISS is such a special school