Nurturing global excellence - ISL's multilingual model and culture of care

In this insightful conversation, Fiona Murchie speaks with members of the International School of London’s Transitions Care Team about ISL’s holistic approach to nurturing students, families, and staff within its diverse international community.The discussion explores how ISL empowers students to maintain their linguistic heritage, fosters wellbeing through care and inclusion, and prepares young people to thrive as confident, compassionate global citizens. Recognised multiple times with the Relocate Global and Think Global People Award for Excellence in Education, ISL shares how its multilingual, community-driven model is shaping the next generation of globally minded leaders.

Key Takeaways

How ISL’s Transitions Care Team builds a welcoming, inclusive culture across all age ranges.The multilingual home language programme, offering 24 languages, and its role in identity, belonging, and academic excellence.Strategies for promoting wellbeing and emotional support as students adjust to new countries and school environments.Innovative practices that enhance the school experience, from acculturation initiatives to language classes and check-ins for students and families.How personalisation underpins ISL’s approach—adapting support to meet each child’s unique needs.The importance of global citizenship, empathy, and leadership development through multilingual and multicultural learning.How ISL’s award-winning model delivers academic excellence and emotional intelligence, preparing students to succeed in an interconnected world.

About The School

Founded in 1972, The International School of London is a co-educational school for students age 3-18. An International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, ISL London offers the Primary Years (PYP) and Middle Years Programmes (MYP) as well as the IB Diploma.

Claudine Hakim, Head of Community Engagement, Student Support & Transitions Care, International School of London (ISL)

Claudine Hakim is the Head of Community Engagement and Student Services at the International School of London (ISL) and leads the school’s multi-award-winning ISL Crossroads Transitions Care Programme. She holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Managementfrom UCL’s Institute of Education and a BA in Psychology and Counsellingfrom Richmond International University. Having lived across three continents, Claudine is passionate about fostering inclusive international communities and promoting transitions careand attachment securityin education. She is a member of the ECIS Admissions Committeeand Chair of the Board of Trustees at Safe Passage Across Networks (SPAN).

Zack Ekert, Head of Multilingualism, International School of London (ISL)

Zack leads the Multilingualism programme at ISL London, where he has developed an integrated curriculum across all languages since 2023. He speaks five languages and teaches French and Spanish, with a passion for linguistic diversity and intercultural learning.

Timea Virag, School Counsellor International School of London (ISL)

Timea Virag (MBACP)is the School Counsellor at ISL London with over 20 years of experience in international and multilingual schools across Switzerland, Hungary, and the UK. Now in her seventh year at ISL, she supports students across all age groups, fostering a strong sense of belonging and promoting social, emotional, and academic wellbeing throughout the school.

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