Shaping successful futures with International School Aberdeen

“The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a unique and challenging curriculum that opened so many doors for me and gave me the best possible grounding for university and beyond.” Chris Van Dort, ISA alumni

Former students are the greatest advocates for any school and, as Aberdeen’s only international school, we are proud to shine a spotlight on graduates who are flying the flag for ISA.

ISA is a community that has comprised some of the most influential and inspirational alumni with graduates succeeding in careers as business executives, lawyers, education leaders, tech and science professionals, and global sporting icons to name a few.

Welcoming children aged 3 to 18, ISA takes a unique approach to preparing children for more than just academic achievement. ISA students are empowered and supported to become successful learners, and, in fact, are among the top performing in the world, recording a 100% exam pass rate in 2023.

However, ISA’s team of experienced teachers knows that success is measured by more than just league tables and exam results – an independent education goes far deeper. ISA knows that when a child’s self-confidence and happiness is prioritised, the academics will naturally follow.

Former students tell the most impactful stories of their student experience so we sat down to chat with ISA alumni, Chris Van Dort, who took a few minutes out of his busy schedule as Teacher of History and Politics at Whitgift School, Surrey, to tell us how ISA inspired him to pursue a career in teaching. “ISA had a unique appeal, and I knew from day one that it was the school for me,” said Chris. “I immediately felt a sense of community and belonging.”

He recalls his history teacher in particular, “Mrs Garry was a huge inspiration for me. She made me realise from a young age that we have the power to inspire those around us and it taught me the importance of always being mindful and respectful of the feelings of others.”

Chris has been a teacher at Whitgift since 2019 where he teaches both A level and IB. He is also Deputy to the Assistant Head of Student Futures, supporting senior students with university applications.

“At ISA, I was offered amazing support from the High School counsellor who helped me set out clear options for universities. I believe I chose the path into teaching thanks to the inspiration and support from the teachers and counsellors at ISA who truly embedded my desire to support the next generation.”

≤ To find out more about how your child can thrive in a globalised world thanks to the foundation of care from the roots of an independent education, visit www.isa.aberdeen.sch.uk/ where you can also find details of the ISA Preschool Open Day on Saturday January 27 from 10am – noon.