
Athlete-Friendly Education at ISN
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Empowering Student-Athletes to Excel in Sport and Study
At ISN Nice, we believe that ambition should never come at the cost of balance. As an Athlete Friendly Education Centre (AFEC), accredited by the World Academy of Sport, ISN provides an environment where academic excellence and high-performance sport go hand in hand.
For student-athletes training at an elite level, our flexible approach to learning, strong pastoral care, and global outlook make ISN one of the few schools in France where young people can truly thrive in both arenas.

Supporting Every Step of the Dual Career Journey
Being an AFEC-accredited school means ISN is recognised for supporting dual career pathways — helping student-athletes manage demanding schedules, travel, and competition while continuing to meet academic goals.
Our ethos is rooted in adaptability and understanding. Every student is seen as an individual with unique needs, aspirations, and rhythms. Whether preparing for an international tournament or an IB assessment, we make sure students are equipped to perform at their best — in mind, body, and spirit.
The AFEC accreditation demonstrates our dedication to nurturing pathways where student-athletes are not forced to choose between academic excellence and sporting ambition.”
— ISN Sport and Health Team
Flexibility That Fuels Success
At ISN, our AFEC framework allows students to adapt their timetables and workloads in ways that support their training without lowering expectations.
Student-athletes can:
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Reschedule assessments to accommodate tournaments and travel
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Access online and asynchronous learning while away from campus
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Work with staff to create personalised timetables that balance training and study
These adjustments are carefully coordinated between teachers, families, and coaches, ensuring that academic integrity and athletic performance progress side by side.
Well-Being at the Core
ISN’s approach extends beyond academics and athletics. We prioritise the well-being and personal development of every student through the guidance of our Director of Student Life, dedicated school counsellor, and physical education specialists.
Together, they create a framework that nurtures emotional resilience, self-awareness, and confidence — key ingredients in both sporting success and lifelong learning.

“Every student deserves to feel safe at school, and needs to know that they will be understood and supported whatever happens.”
— Victor Fernandez, Director of Student Life & Safeguarding

Preparing for Life Beyond the Field
Through ISN’s Futureproof Programme, students receive tailored university and career guidance starting in Grade 8. For high-performance athletes, this includes:
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Selecting IB subjects aligned with sporting and academic ambitions
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Guidance on university applications, sports scholarships, and dual degree options
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Planning for future careers that connect sport, science, and global opportunity
Our graduates go on to some of the world’s most prestigious universities — including Cambridge, UCLA, Sorbonne University, and IE Business School — while many continue competing at national and international levels.
Primary School Frequently Asked Questions:
- WHAT IS AN ATHLETE FRIENDLY EDUCATION CENTRE (AFEC)?
- HOW DOES ISN SUPPORT TRAINING AND COMPETITION SCHEDULES?
- DOES FLEXIBILITY MEAN LOWER ACADEMIC STANDARDS?
- WHAT WELL-BEING SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE?
- HOW DOES ISN PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE?