International Schools Directory

The International School of Budapest is a privately-owned school which provides an English language education to children from 5-12 years old. It is owned and operated by the International Education Foundation of the Szamalk Corporation. Students represent some 19 nationalities and are drawn from the diplomatic and business communities of Budapest and the surrounding areas. The English medium programme (Prep - Grade 6) is accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges (MSASC) in the USA and is also accredited by the Ministry of Education and meets ISO standards. It is managed by a Board of Directors consisting of senior representatives from Szamalk and the school's administration, including the Headmaster. A Parents' Advisory committee assists the administration. The school is located in one of Budapest's most attractive areas in the Buda Hills with good public transport links to the city centre and a door-to-door private bus service for students if required. The facilities are housed in a large building adapted for school use. The building boasts a full size theatre, a computer room, internet access in all rooms, a well stocked library as well as light classrooms. The campus has a full sized sports hall, canteen, as well as a large play area adjacent to the school building. The grounds also offer outdoor sports facilities and opportunities for nature walks in the forest. ISB has developed its own curriculum which draws on the best current practice world wide though it closely follows the skills set out in the British National Curriculum. The core curriculum includes language, mathematics, social studies, science, art and integrated computer work. Music, physical education, swimming and information techology are taught by specialists. There is a strong programme of language support for students needing ESL, which is taught by native English speakers. The school offers bilingual classes for Hungarian students at from a preparatory group through to grade 6. The Hungarian National Curriculum is taught in full and students also learn English and integrate with the international students in specialist subject areas. Teaching staff are well qualified and experienced and represent a range of nationalities. Parental involvement is actively encouraged and parents are very much part of the daily life of the school. There is an extensive programme of after-school activities. Daily snacks and hot lunches are included in the fee. The, school year runs from the start of September to mid June. Children are accepted year-round, irrespective of their English language background. Placement is based on an interview and previous school reports. The school currently does not offer support to those with special learning needs within the school fee.