The International School of Nice (ISN) is a vibrant and inclusive learning community that has been providing high-quality international education since 1977. Their students benefit from an innovative approach to learning, guided by the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy and providing a whole child approach to education.
What truly sets ISN apart is their Academics PLUS approach, which prioritises not only academic excellence but also personal growth, wellbeing, and a strong sense of community. Located on the stunning French Riviera, ISN offers a nurturing, student-centred environment, where learners are encouraged to think critically, embrace challenges, and develop a global mindset.
We spoke with Michelle Van Buuren to find out about the International School of Nice’s whole child approach, and what makes the school such a unique and inspiring place to learn and grow on the French Riviera.
With students from over 60 nationalities, ISN is truly international. How do you help students feel at home and build a sense of belonging within such a diverse community?
At ISN, diversity is our strength. We foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where students feel at home, no matter where they come from. Our pastoral care team, peer mentoring programmes, and buddy system ensure that every new student is supported from day one. We also celebrate cultural diversity through international days and community events, allowing students to share and appreciate different perspectives. The result is a school where students feel a strong sense of belonging and form lasting friendships across cultures.
The IB curriculum is known for its inquiry based approach. How do ISN teachers spark curiosity and help students develop a real love for learning?
Inquiry is at the heart of everything we do at ISN. Our teachers encourage students to ask questions, think independently, and explore real-world connections. We use hands-on learning experiences, collaborative projects, and cutting-edge facilities like our Space Centre, Marine Learning Hub, and Science Labs to inspire curiosity. The “I can’t do it yet” mindset, central to our teaching philosophy, helps students develop resilience and a passion for lifelong learning.
The International School of Nice is known for its whole child approach to development. What does that look like in practice, and how do you ensure that each student thrives academically, socially, and emotionally?
At ISN, we believe that education should nurture every aspect of a student’s growth — intellectual, social, emotional, and personal. Our approach to educating the whole child is woven into every layer of school life. Academically, we provide a rigorous and engaging curriculum that is tailored to each student’s potential — helping students embrace challenges and see setbacks as opportunities to grow. Our teachers differentiate learning to meet individual needs, ensuring that every student is supported.
We also understand that in order for students to thrive academically, they must also feel safe, supported, and valued. Beyond the classroom, we prioritise wellbeing and emotional development. Our dedicated pastoral care team, which includes a full-time school psychologist, plays an active role in monitoring and supporting each student’s emotional health. We run regular wellbeing initiatives that encourage self-reflection and personal growth. These initiatives are designed to help students navigate challenges, build coping strategies, and understand their own emotions in a healthy, constructive way.
We also empower students to find their voice and contribute to the life of the school through leadership programmes, student councils, and community projects. These experiences help foster confidence, collaboration, and a sense of belonging. In short, the International School of Nice’s whole child approach means that every student is seen, heard, and valued — and given the tools they need to thrive in all areas of their life.
Daily French lessons are an integral part of life at ISN. How do you encourage students to embrace languages, and what impact does this have on their confidence and cultural awareness?
At ISN, language learning is part of our daily life and identity as an international school rooted in France. We offer French at all levels, from beginner to native speakers, ensuring that students develop confidence in both academic and everyday communication.
Our French teachers bring language learning to life through interactive lessons, role-play, games, real-world tasks, and cultural projects that make learning meaningful and enjoyable. By immersing students in the language and connecting it to the culture around them, we help them understand and appreciate the traditions, values, and way of life of the country they live in.
Can you tell us more about the ISN campus and facilities?
Our modern campus is designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning. Students have access to cutting-edge STEAM facilities, including the ISN Space Centre, which offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to science and technology. Our Marine Learning Hub connects students with real-world environmental challenges, while our Teaching Kitchen supports life skills education. Sports facilities, outdoor learning spaces, and newly renovated classrooms ensure that students have an inspiring and supportive environment in which to learn.
From sports to Model United Nations, ISN offers a wide range of extracurricular activities. Can you share some standout programmes that enrich students’ experiences?
At ISN, our extracurricular programme is designed to inspire curiosity, foster creativity, and develop well-rounded, globally minded individuals. We offer a wide range of activities that allow students to explore their interests, build new skills, and connect with others beyond the classroom.
An example is Model United Nations (MUN), where our students debate real-world issues and develop diplomacy, public speaking, and critical thinking skills — often alongside peers from other international schools within the Globeducate network. As an AFEC-accredited school, our sports and health programme is equally important, with students competing in inter-school tournaments, and representing ISN in events like the Med Cup. Beyond this, students take part in a rich mix of performing arts, music ensembles, community service initiatives, and eco-projects, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Whether through the Student Council or community service projects, ISN encourages students to step up as leaders. How do these experiences shape their personal growth?
Leadership is woven into everyday life at ISN. From our Head Students and Middle School leaders to the Eco-School Drive Team, students are empowered to take initiative and shape their school experience. Through meaningful projects — like the Nice Climate Summit and local beach clean-ups — they develop confidence, empathy, and a strong sense of social responsibility. These opportunities nurture compassionate, capable leaders ready to make a difference.
Being a member of Globeducate connects ISN to a network of schools worldwide. What opportunities does this provide for students and teachers?
As part of Globeducate, ISN students benefit from global connections and unique learning opportunities. From international leadership summits and the Globeducate MUN, to STEAM and sustainability challenges, our students collaborate with peers worldwide. Programmes like Globeducate’s partnership with the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) empower students to take action on global issues.
How does ISN build a strong partnership between families and the school?
We believe that education is a partnership between school and home. Our open communication channels, regular parent-teacher meetings, and events like Watch Me Learn sessions provide families with insight into their child’s learning journey. ISN’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and workshops also create opportunities for families to engage with the school community.
With ISN graduates going on to top universities worldwide, how does the school ensure students leave not only academically prepared but also confident and ready for life’s next steps?
At ISN, we offer three graduation pathways — the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), the IB Courses route, and the ISN High School Diploma — ensuring every student has a path that matches their strengths, aspirations, and future goals. The programme at ISN develops independent, critical thinkers who are globally minded and adaptable — qualities that go far beyond academic success.
Our Futureproof University and Careers Counsellor works closely with students and families to provide tailored guidance on university choices, applications, and future planning, supporting placements at leading institutions around the world.
Through leadership roles, extracurricular involvement, and international opportunities, our students leave ISN not only well-prepared for university — but ready to shape the world.
As ISN continues to evolve, what are you most excited about for the future?
We are excited about ISN’s continuous innovation in education. With our recent IB Middle Years Programme accreditation and HPL accreditation (High Performance Learning), we are reinforcing our commitment to high-performance learning. Future developments, such as expanding our STEAM, AI and sustainability initiatives, will provide even more hands-on learning opportunities for students. As we look ahead, we are eager to further integrate real-world challenges into our curriculum and continue fostering a community where every student can dream big and reach their full potential.
Find out more about the International School of Nice and their whole child approach on their website.
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