Nurturing every learner: a culture of care and wellbeing
Michelle van Buuren and Nicole Booth
Inclusive Education nurturing every learner
At the International School of Nice (ISN), inclusive education is more than a philosophy; it’s a commitment to ensuring every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. Our compassionate, multicultural community celebrates differences and recognises the unique strengths of every learner.
As the only IB World School in the region with a fully immersive English curriculum, accredited by both the International Baccalaureate Organisation and the Middle States Association, ISN offers an inspiring, holistic international education.
A comprehensice wellbeing ecosystem
Student well-being is at the heart of everything we do. Led by our Director of Student Life and supported by a dedicated teaching team, we work closely with students and families to ensure every learner feels seen, heard, and supported.
Through open communication, regular check-ins, and a proactive approach, we can respond quickly to each student’s individual needs.
Our Essentials programme helps learners build emotional intelligence, resilience, and strong interpersonal skills. Whether adjusting to a new school, navigating personal challenges, or growing into leadership roles, students thrive in a caring, structured environment..
Learn more about our Student Life team
Personalised support through the REACH Centre
At the heart of ISN’s inclusive education is the REACH Centre, where every learner receives personalised support. This dedicated hub offers tailored strategies and interventions for students with diverse learning profiles, while also providing enrichment opportunities for gifted learners.
Each student receiving support has an Individual Education Plan (IEP), developed collaboratively by our Director of Inclusion, learning specialists, and classroom teachers. These plans are regularly reviewed to adapt to each learner’s progress and goals. Through close teacher collaboration and open communication with families, ISN ensures that every student feels supported, confident, and empowered to achieve their personal best.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) Programme
The English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme is a cornerstone of our inclusive approach, helping non-native English speakers access the full curriculum with confidence. With over 40 home languages represented, our EAL specialists support learners at every stage through a blend of in-class guidance and small-group instruction.
New arrivals benefit from intensive language support, while more advanced learners develop vocabulary, comprehension, and speaking skills tailored to their needs. This personalised approach ensures students integrate smoothly into our English-speaking community while celebrating and preserving their multilingual identity.
Social and Emotional Support in every classroom
Emotional wellbeing is supported through open access to our school psychologist, teachers, and specialist staff. Learners are encouraged to seek guidance, reflect on their experiences, and build positive relationships whenever needed.
For students navigating challenges such as relocation, grief, or family transitions, this personalised support is especially valuable.
In addition, buddy programmes pair new students with supportive peers, helping them adapt to school life with confidence and a sense of belonging.
Inclusive practices across the curriculum
Inclusion is embedded in everyday teaching. Our teachers use differentiated instruction to adapt content, teaching methods, and assessments, ensuring that each student’s unique learning style and pace are supported.
With small class sizes averaging 15 to 23 students, every learner receives the individual attention they need to thrive.
Our responsive curriculum is designed to challenge students at every level while providing the support they need to grow with confidence in a truly student-centred environment.
Partnership with families
Inclusive education happens when schools and families work together. We build strong, trusting partnerships with parents through open communication, collaborative goal-setting, and active involvement in Parent Representative Meetings and the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA). Our PTA initiatives range from organising social events to supporting school activities and trips. They help create a vibrant sense of community and shared purpose.
For families of students with specific needs, termly meetings with our Student Life teams provide an opportunity to review progress, celebrate successes, and adjust strategies. We value parents as essential partners in each learner’s holistic development and journey at ISN.
Learn more about inclusive education at ISN Nice
Inclusive education in Nice is exemplified by ISN’s dedication to empowering every learner. Our tailored support, small class sizes, and inspiring IB curriculum create opportunities for every student to succeed.
Families seeking an inclusive, forward thinking IB World School that prioritises well-being, differentiated learning, and global citizenship are warmly invited to discover ISN firsthand.