Welcome to the International School of Zug and Luzern
My name is Barry Dequanne, and I have the privilege of serving as the School Director.
Since our founding in 1961, ISZL has been a place where young people from around the world come together to learn and grow.
Every day, I’m reminded of how fortunate we are to be part of such a diverse and welcoming community.
My Vision for the Future of ISZL
I believe schools should be places of possibility, where young people discover their passions, embrace discomfort, and use their learning to contribute meaningfully to the world around them. That belief continues to guide us at ISZL.
As an International Baccalaureate® (IB) World School, we are committed to providing an education that balances academic rigour with personal growth, preparing students for the opportunities and responsibilities that await them.
We are fortunate to call Central Switzerland home. Our alpine setting offers truly unique opportunities for learning and connection. Whether students are studying ecosystems in their forest learning lessons, collaborating with local partners, or engaging in global initiatives like Youth Forum Switzerland, these experiences help them see their learning in action and understand how they can make a difference.
Our school values guide us every day
- We respect. We show empathy and are inclusive and thoughtful in our interactions with others. Every person is valued and valuable.
- We motivate. We inspire one another and grow by building on our individual and collective passions.
- We achieve. We create an exceptional learning environment focused on academic success and holistic development.
Together, these values remind us that education is as much about who we become as what we learn.
Looking Ahead
The world our students will inherit continues to change rapidly and, understandably, many parents are asking what their children’s futures will look like. As the father of two young and imaginative children, I understand both the excitement and uncertainty this brings.
Over the next five years, my vision for ISZL is to continue building a school that develops these qualities while preparing students to succeed in a world of constant change.
In my role as President of the Board of Trustees for the Association for the Advancement of International Education (AAIE), I have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders and schools worldwide. This global perspective gives me confidence that ISZL is well positioned to help shape the future of international education, and that our students will be ready for whatever lies ahead.
Our plans for a new Middle School campus are one expression of that vision. This is the largest project in ISZL’s history, and it represents an investment in our students’ learning, wellbeing, and community.
This is what I believe the future of education requires: schools that combine academic excellence with environments that support student wellbeing and growth. At ISZL, we are shaping a learning environment where students build the knowledge, character, and confidence to make a change in their own way.
An Invitation
It is a privilege to be part of a community where students, families, and staff come together with such purpose and care.
I warmly invite you to visit our campuses, explore our website, and most importantly, meet the people who make ISZL such a special place.
Barry Dequanne
Director, International School of Zug and Luzern
Hear More from our Community
You can also explore ISZL Voices, where I — alongside colleagues and community members — share reflections on our mission, values, and life at ISZL.
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