Give us the seedling and we will give you the tree! The International School of Paphos (ISOP) has been providing quality educational services since 1987. It caters for children from the age of 2½ (Kindergarten) all the way up to 18 (A Levels). In addition to Cypriot students, we accept students from all over the world.
THE VISION FOR OUR PUPILS To develop as individuals to give as global citizens OUR MISSION to promote a well-rounded education in partnership with families and the wider community to create an inspirational environment in which equal opportunities empower students to achieve their personal best to enable our pupils to become critical, independent thinkers who embrace lifelong learning and make their mark as global citizens PAN METRON ARISTON Our motto, which is derived from ancient Greek wisdom, expresses our commitment to balance, moderation and harmony through education. Page 1
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION The International School of Paphos is recognised both nationally and internationally. It is registered with and regularly inspected by the Cyprus Ministry of Education and Culture. It is also an approved centre for two of the largest UK examination boards, CIE (Cambridge International Examinations) and Edexcel, as well as for Ellinomatheia examinations (Greek language proficiency) from the Aristotelion University of Thessaloniki, Greece. In addition to IGCSE, AS and A Level qualifications, which reflect a globally established standard of education, the school s graduates receive a School-Leaving Certificate (Apolytirion) that is recognised in Cyprus, the United Kingdom and across Europe. The school is also a centre for the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL), recognised by the Cyprus Computer Society and CEPIS (Council of European Professional Informatics Societies), as well as for LAMDA (Drama and Public Speaking examinations). CAREERS Our Careers Department advises Secondary School students about access to higher education, professional training and the world of work. This includes applications to British universities (through UCAS), as well as universities in other European countries, the USA (via the Fulbright Commission) and other parts of the world. Our Careers Advisers also aim to promote the personal development of our pupils and enhance their research skills. Graduates of our school study at prestigious universities, mainly in Britain, such as the London School of Economics, University of Cambridge, University College London, Manchester, Glasgow, as well as universities in Cyprus, Germany, the USA, Canada, Australia, Russia, Dubai and Switzerland. ACHIEVEMENTS Our students frequently win prestigious awards from Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), proving their academic excellence. Two of our students recently earned Top in the World awards for scoring the highest marks globally in AS Level History and IGCSE First Language Russian. Other pupils achieved Top in Cyprus at IGCSE, AS or A Level in many subjects across the curriculum. EXAMINATIONS In addition to ongoing tests and assesments carried out within the school, our students in Key Stages 4 and 5 take the following public examinations: IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education), AS Levels (Y12) and A Levels (Y13). A five-year average of our students examination results shows our excellent track record. A* - A A* - B A* - C A* - D A*- E A Level 36.2 59.4 76.0 89.4 93.2 AS Level 27.6 44.0 61.0 75.2 86.2 IGCSE 45.6 68.8 88.4 95.4 98.0 Please note that at AS Level, the highest mark is A, as an A* does not exist. Page 2
KINDERGARTEN Through a well-planned curriculum, we offer challenging and rich learning opportunities where a child s desire and curiosity to learn will be stimulated and fulfilled. We encourage a positive self-image, independence and self-confidence. We understand that children develop at an individual pace and each child is encouraged to reach his/her full potential. Our curriculum maintains a balance between structured activities and free play. We teach towards the Early Learning Goals for the Foundation Stage as set out in the English National Curriculum. In addition, we follow the aims outlined by the Cyprus Ministry of Education and Culture and the Department of Labour and Social Welfare who regularly inspect the facility. PRIMARY SCHOOL (Key Stages 1 & 2) From Reception to Year 6 of our Primary School, we lay firm foundations for the multi-faceted development of each child. The curriculum includes the following subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Citizenship, Physical Education, Art, Music, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and Greek. With the help of our experienced staff and modern teaching media, we guide our pupils towards an outstanding level of achievement. Each student gains the self-confidence and drive for personal success. Page 3
KEY STAGE 3 KEY STAGE 4 KEY STAGE 5 SECONDARY SCHOOL (Key Stages 3, 4 & 5) Our seven-year programme of study, with its wide choice of options, creates a wealth of opportunities for our students future. Up to and including Year 9, we follow the English National Curriculum, which is enhanced by the Greek programme of studies within a multi-cultural environment. This prepares our students for the global society. Equipped with IGCSEs, A Levels and a recognised Apolytirion (School Leaving Certificate), they are ready to face university and the world of work. Our pupils pursue a broad-based and well-balanced programme of studies which enables them to make informed choices for their future education. In addition to English and Greek, which are compulsory, pupils have the opportunity to learn either French or German. Other subjects taught are Mathematics, General Science, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Geography, History, Citizenship, Art, Drama, Music and Physical Education. In Year 9, our pupils are introduced to the World of Business as a preparation for Business Studies or Economics. Students follow courses preparing them for the IGCSE examinations. These qualifications represent a globally recognised standard of secondary education. Our pupils usually pursue eight subjects at IGCSE, of which English, Mathematics and one Science Subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics) are compulsory. For Cypriot or Greek Nationals, Greek is also compulsory. Other examination subjects usually on offer include Literature in English, French, German, ICT, Geography, History, Business Studies, Economics, Travel & Tourism, Art & Design, Drama and Physical Education. Citizenship and Physical Education are also taught as compulsory non-examination subjects. Our students prepare for their AS and A Level examinations, which are vital for university entry. AS Level courses take one year and A Levels two years. These qualifications are renowned and accepted world-wide. In addition, pupils of The International School of Paphos are tested internally for their School Leaving Certificate (Apolytirion), which is recognised by the Cyprus Ministry of Education and Culture as well as by British and other European universities. Examination subjects taught at ISOP include Mathematics, Further Mathematics, IELTS (English proficiency), French, German, Modern Greek, Literature in English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Information Technology, Geography, History, Business Studies, Economics, Drama and Art & Design. Citizenship and Physical Education are also taught as compulsory non-examination subjects. Greek Culture is available for students who have already passed their A-Level in Modern Greek. Year 7 to 9 Year 10 to 11 Year 12 to 13 Page 4
GUIDANCE Our Guidance Department provides academic and pastoral support across the school. We can arrange in-class support from Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) and/or tutorials for individuals or small groups of students. The Guidance Department staff work together with pupils, parents and teachers to ensure every child can access the school curriculum and enjoy academic, personal and social success. PASTORAL The pastoral team plays a very important role in the smooth day-to-day running of the school. It aims to meet the needs of all age groups and includes the Head of Pastoral Care, Key Stage Co-ordinators, Form Tutors and the School Counsellor. The team works with staff to foster a friendly environment in which all pupils are taught to be responsible for their actions, to think for themselves, to respect the needs of others and to develop and maintain appropriate forms of behaviour. We also strive to promote our pupils spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, so that they become well-rounded and confident young people. EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES The curriculum is significantly enhanced by extra-curricular activities for both our Primary and Secondary pupils. These change from one academic year to the next, depending on demand, but sports, music and drama are always offered. Secondary School students have the opportunity to participate in Model United Nations conferences, the International Award for Young People (formerly known as Duke of Edinburgh Award) and other events. A wide variety of field studies and out-of-school visits offer exciting educational and cultural experiences for learners of all ages. Community service is also encouraged, with our pupils giving up their time to initiate and take part in charity work within the local community. Page 5
INSTITUTE Our Institute offers after-school classes for students from our school as well as the local community with opportunities for further study. Subjects taught are: English, Greek, Russian, French, Spanish and German as Foreign Languages. Depending on demand, EAL (English as an Additional Language) and other customised courses can also be arranged. Furthermore, our Institute offers lessons for the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL). The Institute of The International School of Paphos is registered with the Cyprus Ministry of Education and Culture. SUMMER SCHOOL The International School of Paphos provides a Summer School for children aged 4-15. Our Summer School allows the children to learn in a fun, exciting and intellectually stimulating environment. It operates from the end of June to July and attracts many children from all over the world, providing an unforgettable experience within our well-equipped facilities. It offers English classes as well as sports and creative activities. Page 6
FACILITIES Our current, state-of-the-art facilities were purpose-built in 2006. They were designed and constructed by Aristo Developers. Our goal was to have a comfortable, safe, accessible and aesthetically pleasing building with well-resourced, specialised teaching and recreation areas. Purpose-built Kindergarten complex Well-lit and spacious classrooms with air conditioning and central heating, computers, projectors and interactive whiteboards Three computer suites Five science laboratories Multi-purpose sports hall and performance centre Indoor heated swimming pool with facilities for spectators Astroturf football pitch, running track and athletics facilities with provision for spectators Outdoor basketball, volleyball and tennis courts Spacious art facility with internal gallery Well-equipped music room Media room for presentations and screenings Drama Studio and Theatre Multi-purpose room for physical and creative activities Covered and open play areas for all age groups Elevators and ramps providing wheelchair access Library and bookshop Cafeteria Sick bay Page 7
ADMISSIONS The intake process follows various stages, depending on the age of the pupil. All Kindergarten children are admitted on the basis of an interview with the parents, subject to availability of places. We accept children over two years and six months who can use the toilet independently. Children who apply for Reception, Year 1 or Year 2 are assessed informally. In cases where the child has attended school before, reports and samples of work are essential for the application and selection process. All applicants for Years 3 to 6 of the Primary School and Years 7 to 10 of the Secondary School are formally examined in English and Mathematics. Greek-speaking pupils are also examined in Greek. Applicants for AS and A Level courses are accepted on the basis of the results they have achieved at IGCSE/GCSE or AS Level. Applicants with AS levels applying for A level courses may only do so if they are transferring credits from the same Examination Board. Applicants who do not have IGCSE/GCSE qualifications will take formal entrance tests. For further information, admissions procedures and tour of the school please contact us: Tel.: +357 26821700, Fax: +357 26942541 Email: info@isop-ed.org, Website: www.paphosinternationalschool.com It is of the utmost importance to ensure that there is a close partnership between the school, pupils, parents and carers. We work hard to develop good relationships with all stakeholders in order to build and maintain a positive ethos where every child feels valued as an individual, respected and cared for at all times. Page 8
The information contained in this package is of a general nature and valid at the time of publication. While every effort is made to keep it up-to-date, it should be understood that a school is a dynamic environment and changes may take place from time to time. The official language of the school is English. Translations into other languages are provided solely to facilitate the international community. In case of conflicting meanings between different languages, the English language version prevails. Page 9
Kindergarten Primary Secondary 100 Aristotelous Savva Avenue, Anavargos, P.O Box 62018, 8060 Paphos, Cyprus Tel.: +357 26 821 700, Fax: +357 26 942 541 Λεωφόρος Αριστοτέλους Σάββα 100, Αναβαργός, Τ.Κ. 62018, 8060, Πάφος, Κύπρος Τηλ: +357 26 821 700, Φαξ: +357 26 942 541 Email: info@isop-ed.org, Website: www.paphosinternationalschool.com Registered with the Cyprus Ministry of Education & Culture since 1987 Εγγεγραμένο στο Υπουργείο Παιδείας & Πολιτισμού από το 1987