Academic Counsellor, Ms Edmunds, joining the listening students with some questions as the Student Parliament team present their ideas.

Future Pathways

How ISL’s Future Pathways Programme Supports Students for University and Career Readiness

At the International School of Lausanne (ISL), the Future Pathways Programme is far more than application support — it is a personalised journey of growth, discovery, and preparation that begins early in a student’s high school years. Our counselling programme enables students to develop self-awareness and career-readiness so that they can pursue higher education with purpose and confidence.

Here is how ISL’s Future Pathways Programme team supports students — and their families — every step of the way:

1. A Personalised, Collaborative Journey from Year 11

The journey begins in Year 11, where students engage in self-reflection and planning that lay the foundation for informed decision-making. Through psychometric testing, individual guidance and exploring potential careers, students analyse their strengths and interests, to select IB subjects that align with aspirations and personal goals.

This is not a one-off conversation. Students receive guidance through:

Well-being classes, home-room sessions, and individual counselling.
Advice on language choices, summer opportunities, and university visits.
Key resources, through dedicated portals for students and parents as well as access to Unifrog

It is in Year 11 that the seeds of academic and career planning are planted with care.

2. Building Purpose and Identity in Year 12

By Year 12, student explore their competencies, values, and motivations, then work with their Future Pathways Counsellor to craft a clearer picture of their future.

Key support includes:

Individualised counselling meetings.
Global University Fair
Regular visits from university representatives
CV and motivation letter development
Application strategy and research guidance

3. Comprehensive Application Support in Year 13

In Year 13, students enter the final stages of their journey — ready to put their plans into action with confidence.

Support includes:

Shortlisting universities based on fit.
Continued feedback for application materials
Preparation for interviews
Decision-making

For students, taking a Gap Year, entering the military or going directly into work, students are supported in planning for their future.

Through it all, students are not alone. ISL’s Future Pathways Counsellors offer expert coaching and guidance.

4. A Rich Network of Support and Experiences

Throughout the process, students benefit from a wealth of enrichment opportunities, including:

University fairs and visits from admissions representatives.
Information sessions for parents to foster shared understanding.
Opportunities to connect with alumni who provide insights into university life and career pathways.

Whether it is hearing from an ISL alumni already at university or guidance from a university representative, these experiences add value and offer valuable perspectives and insights.

5. Guiding Transitions and Lifelong Skills

Helping students transition and prepare for adulthood and their transition to college or career is a cornerstone of ISL’s Future Pathways Programme.

Through their approach, our counsellors encourage:

Autonomy and independence
Understanding of identity, strengths and purpose
Guidance on extra-curricular activities
Organisation, time and deadline-management
Awareness of the challenges of transition and the tools to thrive

By the time students leave ISL, they are more than academically prepared — they are thoughtful, self-aware individuals ready to lead fulfilling lives and contribute to their communities.

6. A Story of Growth and Empowerment

From choosing subjects in Year 11 to enrolment in Year 13, the transition journey at ISL is one of continuous support, reflection, and empowerment — for students and their families alike.

Our programme mirrors the principles of the IB itself: nurturing independent thinkers, global citizens, and lifelong learners. The Future Pathways team walks beside students, helping them uncover not only where they want to go but who they want to become.

If you are exploring ISL for your child, our Future Pathways services are a testament to our commitment to each student’s journey. We invite you to visit our campus and see how we help students turn aspirations into reality.

Global and Local Destinations: A World of Opportunity

As an inclusive, academic, non-profit IB World School, ISL prepares students to enter leading universities around the world. Whether staying in Switzerland or heading abroad, our graduates are equipped with the skills to thrive as global citizens in an ever-changing world.

Discover university destinations Discover university destinations

Explore ISL’s High School Profile

Gain insight into our academic programmes, consistently strong IB results, university placements, and a glimpse into student life at ISL.

Whether you are a university representative, a prospective family, or an educational partner, this profile provides a comprehensive overview of our High School experience and student achievements.

Meet your Future Pathways Counsellors

Steve has been an Academic Guidance counselor for the past fourteen years here at ISL. He joined the school in 2011 with over 35 years of teaching experience, previously in England, Malaysia and Thailand. He really enjoys working with the students at ISL, supporting them in navigating their future pathways, helping them identify and apply to universities that align with their goals and interests. His main hobbies are sports and he is a keen football, squash and golf player.

Steve McArthur

Katrina joined ISL in 2020, bringing broad experience from both universities and schools in supporting students through educational transitions. With postgraduate qualifications in the management of international higher education, she has a strong understanding of global university systems and a particular appreciation for the IB’s holistic approach. Her professional development in academic coaching, college advising, and strengths-based counselling supports her inclusive, student-centred practice. Katrina is also a committed ISL parent, with twin daughters in the secondary. She enjoys languages, reading, and travel, and is especially passionate about rowing on the lake and skiing in the mountains.

Katrina Edmunds