International School of Lyon

The school is a value-driven, not-for-profit association committed to developing curious, responsible, and independent lifelong learners. It fosters a safe, supportive environment that emphasizes respect, integrity, and compassion while encouraging a balanced, healthy lifestyle. The school promotes global awareness and intercultural understanding, aiming to help students fulfill their personal and academic potential as active citizens in an interconnected world.

The school offers a complete English-medium curriculum, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP). It is also a registered Cambridge Assessment International Education school and fulfills French national requirements, with French language instruction being compulsory for all students. The academic structure spans from Transition Kindergarten through High School (Grade 12).

The school prepares students for higher education worldwide through internationally recognized curricula. Graduates often move on to top universities, and many remain connected through an active alumni network. The school emphasizes the development of life skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication.

The school provides an inclusion programme for students with special educational needs, overseen by a Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCo). Additionally, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) support is available for English beginners. The school also emphasizes the value of students' mother tongues, integrating them into class teaching where possible with the assistance of a Home Language Coordinator.

The school welcomes applications for students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. The admissions process requires a completed application, school records for the previous two years, and confidential teacher reference reports. While English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) support is available, a sufficient command of English is required for entry into the secondary school. Kindergarten students must be toilet trained. A non-refundable application fee is required, followed by a one-off enrolment fee upon acceptance.

The school operates on a standard academic year with classes held Monday through Friday. The school day typically begins at 8:20 am. For students in Kindergarten through Grade 10, the school day ends at 15:35 on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, 12:05 on Wednesdays, and 14:55 on Fridays. IB Diploma students in Grades 11 and 12 follow a variable timetable.

Located on protected woodland in Sainte-Foy-lès-Lyon, the campus features purpose-built facilities designed with light, spacious rooms arranged in clusters. Shared amenities include a library, art and music rooms, and ICT facilities. Outdoor premises comprise a primary playground, a multi-sport astro-turf field, and a small amphitheatre, with access to nearby municipal athletics stadiums, gymnasiums, and swimming pools for older students and sports lessons.

The school offers an enrichment programme featuring various activities during lunchtimes and after school. Students participate in sports, including football tournaments and athletics, and have opportunities for service learning. The school also hosts events such as musical showcases, drama productions, and cooking classes, and encourages participation in local community activities like the Children’s Municipal Council.