International Schools Directory

Southbank International School is a coeducational, non-profit day school founded in 1979 by a group of British and American educators to provide a challenging academic environment for a culturally diverse community. Students are taught major subjects including English, mathematics, history, computing, science, foreign languages, physical education and the arts and other electives. The student body is a diverse group representing 50 different countries, and is noted for its friendly atmosphere. The school operates on a three term academic year which starts from September and ends in June. Holidays include mid- term breaks in October and February, three weeks at Christmas and two at Easter. Southbank was the first school in the United Kingdom to offer the International Baccalaureate curriculum to pupils of all ages. The IB Primary Years Programme includes the core subjects as well as German, computing, art, music and Suzuki violin. In the Middle School (offered at the Westminster campus along with the High School) French and design technology are added to the core subjects begun in primary school, with emphasis on development of the skills required for the rigorous IB Diploma Programme in the high school. English is the language of instruction, but students may also study their native language. English as an Additional Language is also supported. Southbank Kensington (students aged 3-11) is in a large Victorian villa in Notting Hill, conveniently located in central London with access to public transportation. There is a play area and garden at the rear of the school. The door-to-door bus service covers a wide area of central and north London. Pupils with special needs may be offered limited support and are evaluated for admission on an individual basis with consideration given to the needs of currently enrolled pupils. Facilities include a computer lab, a hall, art and music rooms, and a library served by networked computers.