The International School of London (ISL) is an excellent choice for families seeking a warm, inclusive, and globally-minded school community. As a co-educational institution serving students ages 3 to 18, ISL offers a truly international environment, welcoming students from over 50 nationalities. The school prides itself on celebrating diversity and providing a supportive atmosphere where every student’s cultural identity is embraced.
Location
ISL operates across two campuses in West London. The Chiswick Campus serves students aged 3 to 15, while the Ealing Campus hosts the Diploma College for students aged 16 to 18. The school’s location makes it ideal for families living in Chiswick and Ealing, but a door-to-door bus service also serves those in surrounding areas, such as Richmond, with journey times of 20 to 30 minutes.
Foreign Languages
One of ISL’s unique offerings is its comprehensive language program, teaching up to 24 home languages. This approach helps students retain their native language while learning English at a comfortable pace, which is invaluable for international families transitioning to life in London. In addition, ISL hosts language cafes for parents to give their feedback to senior staff members, and to share their London experiences with people from the same cultural background.
International Baccalaureate
A pioneer in International Baccalaureate (IB) education, ISL offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and IB Diploma. The school has a strong track record of academic success, with students achieving higher-than-average scores. In 2023, ISL students had an average IB score of 33, with 63% achieving a bilingual diploma. Beyond academics, ISL integrates holistic development into its curriculum, which includes physical and emotional well-being.
Sports at ISL
Sports play a significant role at ISL, thanks to the state-of-the-art Gunnersbury Sports Hub. Students participate in a variety of sports, including football, basketball, rugby, and tennis, and enjoy outdoor activities in Gunnersbury Park. A standout feature of the primary & middle school programmes is the Forest School. A space where students can connect with nature and develop teamwork and problem-solving skills through outdoor learning. Forest school initiatives have a multitude of benefits for young people, particularly in areas like mental health.
Mobile Phone Ban
ISL also implemented a mobile phone ban in 2022, and staff have reported noticeable improvements in students’ concentration levels and overall well-being since its introduction. This policy aligns with the school’s mission to provide a focused and balanced learning environment. Please see our recent blog on mobile phones for more information on schools’ changing policies,
Extracurricular Activities
Additionally, ISL offers over 40 extracurricular activities ranging from film production to coding, encouraging students to explore a wide variety of interests. The school’s rolling admissions policy allows for flexibility, enabling students to join at any point in the academic year. ISL also provides support with student visa applications, easing the transition for international families.
The Final Word
As ISL celebrated its half-century anniversary in 2023 It continues to balance academic rigour with a strong focus on pastoral care. The school’s award-winning transitions program supports students and families from the moment they arrive, ensuring that they quickly feel at home in this vibrant, supportive community.
For families looking for an international school that values academic achievement, personal well-being, and cultural diversity, ISL remains an ideal option. For more information on ISL and for supported applications to top London International Schools, please do contact us.
