Stuart Byfield
Middle School Principal
Middle School is a time for growth, change, and self-discovery, as students begin to shape their path towards adulthood. At ISZL, we recognise this as an important time for learning and exploration. Our Middle School programme is designed to support 11–14-year-olds, helping them move forward with confidence and purpose.
Our programme goes beyond academics. During these years, students not only learn academic skills but also develop the values and attitudes that will help them navigate life’s challenges and opportunities.
We encourage a supportive environment where friendships, family, and the wider community play an essential role in students’ development. As technology becomes more central to their lives, we guide them to use it thoughtfully, responsibly, and ethically.
What Makes ISZL's Middle Years Programme Unique?
Inquiry-based Learning
Our programme is built on the principles of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP), focusing on inquiry-based learning that connects real-world problems with classroom learning. This approach helps students understand and apply knowledge in meaningful ways.
Learning is personal here. Through hands-on, student-centred experiences, we inspire curiosity, creativity, and a passion for lifelong learning. Our goal is to help students grow into thoughtful, engaged, and compassionate individuals, ready to make a positive impact on the world.
Multilingualism
All Middle School students have access to German classes, with French, Spanish or EAL being offered as second language options. There are also opportunities to study the student’s First Language (mother tongue) independently as a course or as part of our extensive after-school programme or multilingual academy.
A Caring, Collaborative Community
What truly sets us apart is our welcoming and caring community. We view parents as partners and value the collaboration between teachers, parents, and children. By nurturing positive relationships, we create a sense of belonging and well-being for all ISZL families.
We Nurture Creativity and Self-Expression
Students have the opportunity to explore and develop their skills in Theatre, Music, and Visual Art through a rotating programme in Grades 6-8. These experiences allow students to dive deeper into each discipline, fostering a broad range of creative abilities.
Beyond the classroom, students can further pursue their artistic passions through extracurricular activities such as Set Design Club, Manga Art, Drama Club, and the annual theatrical production. The Middle School musical also involves High School students, who often return to contribute their skills to the show. Whether playing in the pit band, choreographing, or offering costume design suggestions, High School students provide valuable inspiration and support.
Supporting Every Student
In Middle School, we prioritise the individual needs of every student. Grade-level teaching teams work closely together to provide personalised attention and support, meeting regularly to track progress, address concerns, and ensure each child is successful.
Our Student Support Services Team (SSST) plays a key role in providing personalised care that supports academic, emotional, and social growth. By working closely with homeroom teachers, we ensure that each student thrives in a caring, inclusive environment.
Learning at ISZL is a collaborative journey. Our teachers build strong relationships with students, creating a space where curiosity is encouraged, and every student is supported to reach their full potential. We design lessons that inspire creativity, critical thinking, and communication, preparing students for the challenges ahead.
Meet the Middle School Leadership
Pete Lefrance
Middle School Assistant Principal
