Empowering Every Learner: Expansion of Student Support Services at the International School of Lausanne

In the spirit of growth and progress, the International School of Lausanne is thrilled to share a monumental achievement that underscores our commitment to delivering a world-class education. Our expansion of the Student Support Services, which is set to launch in the next academic year 2024-2025, stands as a testament to our unwavering dedication to unlocking the unique potential of each student while ensuring the well-being of our entire school community.

The Core of Effective Learning

At the heart of effective learning lies a sense of belonging, a belief in progress, and the provision of appropriate challenges and support for all learners. Recognising that approximately 20% of children in Switzerland exhibit learning and thinking differences, such as ADHD or Dyslexia, aligns our commitment with global norms. We understand that parents consistently prioritise individualised care, and it’s this commitment that places our school’s support provision ahead of local international schools, making us the preferred choice for families seeking an exceptional educational experience.

Accessible, high-quality support is very important for us. It contributes to the individualisation of the educational programme, ultimately enhancing academic success and fostering a learning environment that is both inclusive and diverse.

Our vision is to offer accessible and highly-targeted expertise that supports outstanding education for all students.

A Spectrum of Support

Our Student Support Services at the International School of Lausanne is designed to cater to a spectrum of learners, spanning those with specific talents, students in the mainstream, and those with moderate learning needs. By adopting a knowledgeable and innovative approach, we aim to provide an environment where every learner feels valued and supported on their educational journey.

A Model for Student Support

To realise our vision, we have developed a comprehensive model for student support, encompassing four key enablers and four priority areas.

Four key enablers

• Professional Development: Our commitment to fostering effective inclusionary practices begins with ongoing training to enhance teachers’ skills and beliefs about ability and need. By investing in our educators, we ensure that our students benefit from the latest pedagogical approaches.

• Systematic Evaluation: We rely on self-assessment and standardised questionnaires to provide reliable and valid data on programme effectiveness. This commitment to evaluation ensures that our methods evolve based on evidence, always aligning with the best interests of our students.

• Specific Space for Support: Our learning spaces are carefully designed to support active engagement, collaborative work, and communication between students and faculty. These environments are essential in creating a conducive atmosphere for learning and personal growth.

• Flexible Staffing Model: Utilising a mix of teaching staff and assistant teaching staff allows us to provide specialised support with effective reach. This flexibility ensures that each student receives the attention and assistance they need to thrive academically.

Four Priority Areas

• Support for Students with High Potential: Through strategies like mentoring, differentiated pedagogies, and the integration of digital technologies, we maximize the potential of high-achieving students. Our goal is not just academic success but the holistic development of each individual.

• Support for Students with Additional Academic Needs: Addressing common learning disabilities is a top priority. Through differentiated learning, Individual Education Plans (IEPs), and in-class support, we provide tailored assistance to students with additional academic needs, ensuring they can achieve their full potential.

• Support for Students with Specific Language Needs: Recognising the importance of language in academic and social success, we offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support. This targeted assistance equips students with the language skills necessary for seamless integration into the academic environment.

• Vocational Course for Students in Years 12 and 13: In a move that exemplifies our commitment to innovation, as part of our strategic plan moving forward we will look to introduce the IB Careers Related Programme. This vocationally based academic alternative places a strong emphasis on coursework assessment, preparing students for real-world challenges and opportunities beyond the classroom.

As prospective parents or current members of the International School of Lausanne community, we invite you to celebrate this significant leap forward in our commitment to providing an exceptional education. The expansion of our Student Support Services reflects our knowledgeable and innovative approach to education, ensuring that every learner is empowered to reach their full potential. Together, we embark on a journey of growth, inclusivity, and academic excellence, reaffirming our position as a leading institution in Switzerland’s international education landscape.

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