Founded in 1969 as a co-educational school, it is situated in the commune of Tervuren, 20 minutes from the centre of Brussels. Its modern, purpose-built premises occupy a very attractive site in green surroundings near to the Royal Museum of Central Africa and Tervuren park. Approximately 52% of the current students are British and some 70 other nationalities are represented. There is no uniform and no religious affiliation or instruction. The school follows an English-based curriculum, adapted to an international context, and offers the IB diploma in addition to A-levels. Academic standards are high and public examination results are very good, particularly as it is a non-selective school. The arts play a major part in the life of the school: music, drama and dance thrive and public performances are held in the purpose-built theatre. There are good sports facilities (available out-of-school hours to families and friends) including playing fields, gymnasia, sports hall, squash and tennis courts and all-weather pitches. The high standard of facilities enables pupils to take part in and host international schools sports tournaments. Local involvement with the school is vigorous and the campus is a focal point for community activities. It uses to advantage its European location for school journeys and fieldwork throughout the continent. Older pupils take part in the Model United Nations in the Hague.
Pupils: Total age range 1-18; 1250 day pupils (642 boys, 608 girls). Senior (secondary) school 11-18, 687 pupils (360 boys, 327 girls). Junior school 1-11, 563 pupils (282 boys, 281 girls), including a crèche, for ages 1-3 years. Entrance: Entry is at any age. The school aims to support families moving to Belgium and so runs a policy of comprehensive entry, all aptitudes welcomed.
Some school assisted places.
British and international.
Principal: Mrs Susan Woodroofe, in post from 2011. Previously Vice-Principal of the school. Teaching staff: 109 full time, 71 part time plus visiting instrumental teachers. 87% of staff are UK-qualified and all are trained to teach UK curriculum).
GCSE: 143 in Year 11: 91% gained at least grade C in 5+ subjects (35% with A/A* in 5+ subjects). A-levels/IB: 100 in Year 13. Of these, 60 took AS/A-levels, 11% passing in 4 subjects, 88% in 3 subjects. 40 took the IB, gaining an average IB score of 31.3 (15% gained 40-45 IB points).
96% of sixth-form leavers go on to degree courses (2% after a gap year), 2% to Oxbridge and others to eg UCLA, University of Miami, Harvard, Michigan State, ULB in Brussels, KV Leuven, Ghent and Utrecht. Subjects studied include economics, audio technology, policing, business management, sports development, interior design, drama, architectural engineering, event management, physiotherapy. A few typically go on to HND or art foundation courses, followed by a degree.
GCSE/IGCSE, AS- and A-levels, IB Diploma. 20+ AS/A-level subjects offered (including PE). School follows an English-based curriculum to age 16, with an emphasis on languages. Sixth form: Pupils choose between AS/A-levels, the IB or vocational course. Special provision: Learning support staff, EAL specialists (English language immersion courses available), educational psychologist, counsellors. Languages: French (compulsory from age 4-16); Dutch offered from age 7−11; German and Spanish from age 11; all offered at GCSE. Bilingual French/English programme being introduced: currently offered for ages 4-9 years (50% of subjects taught in French, 50% in English) and will extend to 14-year-olds by 2015. ICT: 600+ computers, all networked and with internet access; extensive use of i-pads.
Music: Up to 50% of pupils learn a musical instrument; instrumental exams can be taken. Some 16 musical groups - wind bands, orchestras, chamber ensembles, African drumming, individual groups. Music technology offered at A level. Technology suite, recording and rehearsal studios available for student use. Drama: Drama offered to A-level. All encouraged to be involved in a variety of productions, on and off stage. Art and design: 22 take GCSE, 10 A-level. Specialisms eg fine art, 3D-design, ceramics, graphic design, printmaking. Students regularly accepted at art colleges in UK, US and Europe.
Sport: Range of team games, gymnastics, sports compulsory. BAGA exams may be taken, PE at GCSE and A-level. Regular success on the International Schools circuit, 1st place in many ISST championships over many years. Activities: Model United Nations, debating, International Duke of Edinburgh's Award all popular. A number of clubs, run by subject leaders, include coursework support, science, sport, music, drama and art to charity, film, chess and the idle society club.
Uniform: No uniform worn. Religion: No religious affiliation.
Nick Kennedy (rugby player for England, London Irish)
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