ISB PROSPECTUS

Building your child's future

Building your child's future!

pageIntroduction 3 the International School of Bucharest

The International School of Bucharest (ISB) is a not-for-profit

international school serving the needs of international

students aged three to eighteen. It is also open to children

of Romanian families.

An enviable and spacious learning environment, the school

is set in a new purpose-build modern building in Sector 3,

Bucharest, overlooking the Swan Lake to the front. Over 40

nationalities are represented among its 600 children.

Our curriculum is based on The National Curriculum for

England and Wales, adapted to meet international best

practices.

We offer International General Certificate of Education

(IGCSE) and International A-Level

Diploma programme which means our students can apply

and go on to respected universities around the world.

The International School of Bucharest (ISB) and its curricu-

lum are fully recognised by the Ministry of Education and

Research, Romania. ISB is accredited as a Cambridge

University International Exam Centre for International

General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and

International A-Level Diploma Programmes which are

accepted by universities and colleges throughout the world

as well as in Romania. ISB is also a regular member of the

Council of International Schools (CIS).

Overview

pageIntroduction 5 the International School of Bucharest

International A Level and AS Level have widespread interna-

tional recognition as educational qualifications. This recogni-

tion is because:

• International A and AS Level qualifications are recognised

by universities as equivalent in value to UK A and AS Levels

• Good grades at A and AS Level can result in one full year

of advanced standing or credit at universities in the USA and

Canada

• Good A and AS Level grades are vital for admission to all

the world’s major English-speaking universities and many

non-English-speaking universities

• A and AS Level are rigorous programmes that encourage

high academic standards

• A and AS Levels have a high profile amongst English-

medium international schools around the world

International Recognition

the International School of Bucharest

Our goal is to provide the students of the International

School of Bucharest with the best possible programme of

academic and personal development in a challenging

and supportive environment.

Mission Statement

At the International School of Bucharest:

• We believe that all our pupils and staff are unique

human beings, capable of spiritual, moral, intellectual

and physical growth and development.

• We value truth, freedom, justice, human rights, the law

and collective effort for the common good.

• We believe that pupils need to be taught to learn and

build on new skills and develop socially.

• We value families as sources of love and support for all

their members, and as the basis of a society in which

people care for others. We believe we should respect the

people, places and environment around us.

• We also wholly believe that pupils learn to value and

treat others with respect, not only for what they have but

also for what we can do for them.

• We recognise and celebrate achievement.

• We believe relationships are fundamental to the

development and fulfilment of ourselves and others, and

for the good of both the local and wider international

community.

Philosophy

At the International School of Bucharest:

• We aim to develop a love of learning, which will

remain with the individual long after the process of

formal education has finished.

• We will encourage cross–curricular learning, supported

by advancements in technology wherever possible to

enhance the learning of our pupils.

• We will provide our pupils with a stimulating and

caring environment to learn within, where the develop-

ment of the whole child is a priority. We also encourage

our pupils to develop as independent learners who can

make positive choices for their own learning and devel-

opment.

• We fully encourage parents to take an active role in

their child's education and development.

• We aim to reward achievement of all members of our

school community for their successes.

• Our pupils are members of their local community and

of our host country, Romania. We recognise our students

come from a multitude of cultural, religious and ethnic

backgrounds. We therefore seek to provide a secular

education that reflects and draws from this diversity by

embracing the ideals of international understanding and

responsible citizenship.

• We will provide a balanced and broad curriculum

which will include all pupils of different abilities and

needs, from the Early Years Foundation Stage to

Secondary.

• We offer a range of extracurricular activities and trips

to broaden the experience of school for our pupils and to

enrich their learning of academic and social skills.

International RecognitionWe recogniseand celebrateachievement

We aim to reward achievement

of all members of our school community for their successes

pagePrimary School 7

Primary SchoolAt International School of Bucharest (ISB) we believe that every child deserves the best

possible start in life and the support to fulfill their potential. The early years of a child’s

education is a unique period of time and their experiences during this crucial stage of

development has a major impact on their future life chances. A secure, safe and happy

childhood is important in it’s own right, and it provides the foundation for children to

make the most of their abilities and talents as they grow up

Early Years Key Stage 1 Key Stage 2


The International School of Bucharest - Early Years and

Foundation Stage provides a safe and secure

environment in which very young children

can grow and learn.

Early Years (age 3 to 5)

The centre houses, pre-Nursery (2 to 3 years old) Nursery

(3 to 4 years) and Reception (4 to 5 years old) classes.

We follow the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage curricu-

lum, which provides guidance on the learning and

development for children aged from birth

to five years old.

In the Early Years Centre, children learn through a

combination of teacher-pupil initiated activities and, of

course, play.

Children’s learning experiences are encouraged and

developed across a wide range of provision areas, both

indoors and outdoors. In addition to classrooms the

centre houses it’s

own dining room, sleep room,

computer suit, music room,

soft play room, multi-purpose

room (for PE, games,

assemblies and meetings), and

large outdoor areas with sandpits,

water play areas and a range of adventure playground

equipment for each age group.

Children’s learning areas are large, well planned and

appropriate to the age and needs of the children.

Classrooms are set up to encourage young children’s

natural play behaviour and allow free access to a wide

range of resources.

Throughout the week children experience a balance of

opportunities to learn, through their own initiated play in

the provision areas continuously available to them and

through adult lead class or group activities. This balance

changes as children mature and move through from

pre-Nursery to Reception.

Developing learning needs are taken into consideration

with regards to environment, resources, challenges set

and daily routines.

Close relationships are built with parents, teachers, and

assistants to ensure each child has the best preparation

for the next stage of their education.

Our staff is responsible for ensuring the development and

learning for the children in their care by fostering

positive, respectful and supportive relationships with

both children and parents.



The principal focus of the British taught curriculum is to

develop Literacy and Numeracy skills. The majority of

teaching time is spent with the class teacher and other

curriculum areas covered in class include Science, History,

Geography, Art, DT and PSHE. The children are also in

the fortunate position to be taught by specialist teachers

in the areas of ICT, Music, PE, and Romanian Studies.

The differing natures in pupils’ personalities and

academic abilities are recognised and catered for by

varying teaching and learning strategies according to the

needs of the class, group and individuals. Young children

are active learners so plenty of opportunities are provided

for first hand experiences of the curriculum to build a

sound basis for future learning. In addition to this, a

variety of quality resources are used to complement the

teaching of the curriculum.

The remainder of the curriculum is punctuated with a

variety of educational excursions to enhance and “bring

alive” the topics covered in Year 1 and Year 2.

Throughout the year all children in Key Stage 1 take part

in class assemblies. These give the children the opportu-

nity to show case work they have been covering in class

and to perform in front of an audience. All parents are

invited to come and watch their children’s class assembly

along with the rest of the Key Stage 1 children.

KS1 classes also benefit from teaching assistants to

provide additional support for activities within the

classroom. Teaching and support staff aim to guide,

encourage and challenge the children; all within a caring

and supportive environment that promotes independent

lifelong learning.

KS1 consists of two year groups: Year 1 (ages 5/6) and Year 2 (ages 6/7). The underlying aim is to provide a safe, secure and

stimulating learning environment that encourages children to become confident in their own abilities.


Key Stage 1(ages 5 and 6)


We aim for an exciting, broad and balanced curriculum

and teachers keep the children’s experiences and inter-

ests at the forefront of their planning. Physical Education,

Information and communication Technology, Music and

Romanian Studies are taught by specialist teachers. In

Year 5 and 6 the children also receive specialist teaching

in French and Spanish.

The children are encouraged to participate in Extra-

Curricular Activities that take place three days a week

after timetabled lessons. Activities for this Key Stage may

include: Football, Basketball, Robotics, Computer,

Cookery, Recorders, Piano, Swimming, Art and Tae Kwon

Do, and many more.

A highlight of each year in this Key Stage are the

Residential Trips that take place in October-November

and in May. During this week all the children spend at

least tow night away from home in a variety of locations,

these include Sinaia, Brasov, and Predeal.

This experience is integrated into the curriculum as an

important part of the children’s education and a way of

developing their independence.

Our pupils make excellent academic progress and the

results are always good. By the end of Key Stage 2, our

students are ready, academically and emotionally, for the

transition to Secondary School.

Key Stage 2 consists of four year groups: Year 3 (ages 7/8), Year 4 (ages 8/9), Year 5 (ages 9/10) and Year 6 (ages 10/11) where

children experience a wide, varied curriculum and an increasing range of activities.



Studies are taughtby specialist teachers

Secondary SchoolKey Stage 3 consists of four year groups: Year 7 (ages 11/12), Year 8 (ages 12/13), and

Year 9 (ages 13/14) where we support children in achieving their best in a rigorous,

specialist-taught curriculum.

Key Stage 3 Key Stage 4 Key Stage 5

pageSecondary School 19

We encourage active learning, critical thinking and

excellent communication skills. An important part of this

is taking part in debates and giving presentations; our

students represent the school at various functions and

participate

in the school council and other

meetings.

Our students join the sports

teams and make the most of the

clubs programme. Trips, theme

weeks and visiting specialists enhance

the well-structured curriculum. We also help students to

prepare for IGCSE subject choices.

There are school exams at the end of each year. At the

end of Year 9, students can take the National Curriculum

Tests for Key Stage 3 in English, Mathematics and

Science. Students also take the checkpoints by Cam-

bridge University.


Key Stage 3(ages 11 to 14)

pageSecondary School 21

At the beginning of Year 10, students begin the demand-

ing two-year IGCSE programme. IGCSE programme

provides a rigorous, challenging academic course of

study. These courses are internationally recognized

standards of excellence accepted by education systems

and schools in many countries around the world.

A wide range of subjects on offer at ISB will give your

child a more rounded education. Choices are made

bearing in mind a breadth of disciplines, possible career

choices, aptitude and enjoyment.

The students work towards an IGCSE qualification in

each subject they study and typically achieve strong

results. In addition to these courses, we encourage

students to develop personal and social skills.

All our students have to take part in the Physical Educa-

tion programme to foster health, fitness and well-being.

Many choose to be involved in sports lessons and

extra-curricular clubs.

We also help our students to look to the future, giving

them useful careers advice and all look forward to the

university trip to UK in Year 11.



The International General Certificateof Secondary Education

pageSecondary School 23 the International School of Bucharest

Pupils study the AS/A2 International A Level programme in

Year 12 and 13. International A Level is recognised world-

wide as a requirement for entry into higher education. Study

and examination at A Level give students in-depth knowl-

edge and lifelong skills that prepare them for success in

higher education and employment.

At the International School of Bucharest (ISB) almost any

combination of the wide choice of subjects available.

Students have the freedom to select the subjects that are

right for them – either follow a broad course of study, or

specialise in a particular area.

International AS Level is typically taken at the mid-point of

an A Level programme and is optional. We offer AS Level as

a qualification in its own right to increase breadth in the

curriculum and allow students to complement other subjects

they are studying.

Key Stage 5(ages 12 to 13)

International AS/A LevelDiploma Programme

StudentSupport Services At the International School of Bucharest, we think it’s important to give all our students

the support they need to thrive. To that end, we offer lessons in English as a second

language, learning support plus programmes for gifted and talented students.

pageStudent Support Services 27 the International School of Bucharest

At ISB children have a wonderful opportunity to improve

their language learning skills by adding a new language

to their language repertoire. The children are provided

with opportunities to use language to communicate in a

wide range of activities. They learn by doing, by trying

out language, and modifying it to serve communicative

needs in natural and authentic contexts.

We create learning environments where a child feels

comfortable, accepted and happy, while feeling

challenged and ready to take risks, knowing

that mistakes and misunderstandings are accepted as

essential to the process of learning a foreign language.

In our ESL program the four skills of language (listening,

speaking, reading and writing) are taught as an

integrated whole and not in isolation. This makes

language learning natural and therefore easier for the

learner. Reading and writing stories, poetry and plays,

performing role-plays, drama and puppet plays, reciting

poems and chants, singing

songs, playing games, watching videos, listening to

cassettes or CDs, making recordings, incorporating arts

and crafts, using the computer for various purposes, peer

tutoring and group work etc. –are ways in which learn-

ing opportunities are created in an engaging and moti-

vating manner. With this approach language skills such

as grammar, vocabulary and sentence structures are

learned in meaningful contexts where it is easier for the

children to make connections and practice these skills for

real purposes.

As student numbers are small teachers are able to

establish a close relationship with the students who in

the early days may feel lost and confused. In such

instances the ESL classroom can be a real heaven for ESL

students.

English as a SecondLanguage - ESL

At the International School of Bucharest we think it’s important to give all our students the support they need to thrive. To that

end, we offer lessons in English as a second language, learning support plus programmes for gifted and talented students.

We encouragethe student tocommunicate

in English

pageStudent Support Services 29 the International School of Bucharest

Our experienced, highly qualified and dedicated teaching

staff wants to give every student the chance to succeed.

We recognise that all students learn differently but some

may need more support and guidance to make the most

of the curriculum we offer and achieve their potential.

We give short-term or long-term support, depending on

the needs of the students. We keep a close eye on

progress and adapt the programme as necessary to make

sure it develops along with the student in question.

Learning Support

SEN or Learning Difficulties encompasses a wide range of

learning barriers. At ISB we have a team of caring

professionals to help identify and manage these learning

barriers with the help and guidance of a multi-

professional team, depending on the specific case need.

With the help and input of the whole team we individu-

alize each learning difficulty, and implement a manage-

able Individual Education Plan which aims to differentiate

discreetly through mainstreaming and Inclusive teaching.

Pupils with SpecialEducational Needs

When a student is naturally gifted, we want to make

sure we stretch and challenge them. We make sure our

teachers are fully aware of how best to work with

exceptionally able students and get the best from them.

We also run specialist sessions for students to advance

their higher-level thinking skills.

Gifted Talented

Dedicated teaching staffwants to give every

student the chance tosucceed.

Co-CurricularActivitiesAt ISB we recognise the value of sport in the life of our students and have spent much

effort in developing sporting facilities.

pageCo-Curricular Activities 33 the International School of Bucharest

The International School of Bucharest (ISB) provides the

scope for our students to develop skills beyond the

academic

fields through

participation

in creative arts.

Classes in music, art and performing arts help to develop

creative talents and encourage imagination and confi-

dence.

Among the school’s facilities is a large stage area where

regular performances are created for the benefit of both

fellow students and their parents and families.

Teamwork, as well as self reliance and confidence, can all

be fostered through sport. Overall, we believe that it

should be about enjoyment. We hope that this approach

will inspire our students to pursue sport and personal

fitness throughout their lives.

At ISB we recognise the value of sport in the life of our

students and have spent much

effort in developing

sporting facilities.

The Creative Arts Sports

Extra-CurricularActivitiesThe extra curriculum program at the International school of Bucharest (ISB) has an

excellent choice of activities available to students. Teaching staff involved in

extra-curricular clubs have specialist skills, interests and qualifications outside their

normal teaching duties which in turn means we can offer a diverse range of activities.

pageExtra-Curricular Activities 37 the International School of Bucharest

The extra curriculum programme at the International

school of Bucharest (ISB) has an excellent choice of

activities available to students. Teaching staff involved in

extra-curricular clubs has specialist skills, interests and

qualifications outside their normal teaching duties, which

in turn means we can offer a diverse range of activities.

In addition to teacher-based activities, ISB also offers

extra-curricular activities; ISB also offers extra-curricular

activities run by outside providers. Outside providers

working within the schools extra-curricular program are

expected to operate in a professional manner that

demonstrates quality planning and sound

educational outcomes.

new and exciting areas in which to generate student

interest. Students’ ideas and suggestions for new clubs

are often a starting point for the following terms clubs.

At ISB we feel that the extra-curricular program is a

valuable part of our school and hope that the wide

variety of clubs available ensure that every child’s extra-

curricular needs and interests are catered for.

The schools clubs change on a term by term basis and

teaching staff are always on the lookout for

Extra-Curricular

pageExtra-Curricular Activities 39 the International School of Bucharest

Throughout Key stages 1 and 2 children will have the

opportunity to go on a variety of day trips in and around

Bucharest.

Educational visits enhance the children’s understanding

and enjoyment of what they are learning and provide the

students with a wider experience that is offered

within school.

Trips will usually take place within normal school hours

and a snack, drinks and lunch are provided by the school

canteen.

From Year 3 students will take part in a residential visit

each year to places such as the Carpathian Mountains,

Brasov and the Danube Delta.

about plans for the trip well in advance through a

meeting with teachers involved. A full list of clothing and

equipment will be provided and special dietary

requirements catered for.

Residential visits, varying from three to five days, play a

crucial part in a child’s development, enabling them to

develop independence and build confidence away from

the family.

All children should be given the opportunity to attend

wherever possible. Parents will be advised

Daily and Residential Trips

Facilitiesand servicesThe attractive building is fully equipped and the grounds include a central library with

more than 8000 books, science labs (science, physics, chemistry, biology), three

computer suits, two music rooms, art and design studios, three multipurpose rooms, a

350 seat conference hall, cafeteria, football field, multi-sports area,

playgrounds and a garden.

pageFacilities and services 43 the International School of Bucharest

The main campus is located in the east part of the city at

Pantelimon. The Early Learning Centre is located at

Pipera, which accepts students up to 6 years old. ISB

campus offers a wide range of facilities to support and

accommodate the learning process of students. Our

classrooms are spacious with relatively small class sizes.

The campus offers modern, high quality facilities for

students and teachers.

The attractive building is fully equipped and the grounds

include a central library with more than 8000 books,

science labs (science, physics, chemistry, biology). Three

computer suites, tow music rooms, art and design

studios, three, multipurpose rooms, a 350 seat confer-

ence hall, cafeteria, football field, multi-sports area,

playgrounds and a garden.

Our Campus and Facilities

The recruitment of high quality teaching

staff is of fundamental importance.

Therefore, we employ a diverse teaching

staff who have a wealth of international teaching

experience that enable us to deliver the teaching of the

National Curriculum of England and Wales across the

school to a high standard.

Our Teaching Staff


Hot and cold nutritious lunches are prepared daily in the

school cafeteria.

Cafeteria Services


A local transportation company provides transport for all

parts of Bucharest.

Early Years and Primary school buses will have an adult to

supervise the children.

Transportation Services

ISB PROSPECTUS

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