International School of St Petersburg ISSPb

The International School of St Petersburg (ISSPb) is a private school that provides a high level education in line with international standards. We combine the best practices of the English National Curriculum (ENC)  with the opportunity to obtain a Russian school certificate, creating a unique learning environment for the well-rounded development of children aged 4 to 18.

Educational Programmes

The International School of St Petersburg delivers two educational programmes: the International Program and the Russian program.

The International Programme is based on the principles of the English National Curriculum and is implemented with careful consideration of the Russian educational and cultural context. Across all lessons, as well as during excursions and extracurricular activities, particular attention is paid to the study of Russian history, cultural heritage, traditions, social norms and values. This approach helps students develop respect for the local culture in which the school operates, builds a strong sense of civic identity, and at the same time broadens their outlook within an international context.

The International Programme allows students to transfer smoothly to any international school worldwide at the appropriate stage of their education. It ensures strong preparation for IGCSE and A-Level examinations and builds the academic foundation needed for successful admission to global universities. The programme is offered at all stages of education, from Reception (from age 4) through to Year 13 (A-Level, up to age 18). As part of the International Programme, Russian is studied either as a foreign language or, for native speakers, as a first language. Russian is a compulsory subject for all students.

The Russian National Programme, delivered in accordance with Federal State Educational Standards (ФГОС) and including preparation for and sitting of the OGE (ОГЭ) examinations, is the second programme offered by the school.

The International School of St Petersburg (ISSPb) is an accredited examination centre for IGCSE and A-Level examinations, enabling students to take their exams at school without the need to travel overseas.

All subject curricula are reviewed annually to ensure they meet the current requirements of leading schools and universities worldwide. Teachers regularly select up-to-date teaching materials from official British publishers such as Cambridge, Oxford and Longman, while taking into account the requirements of the Russian education system.

Results and Achievements

Students of the International School of St Petersburg (ISSPb) consistently achieve strong results in IGCSE examinations:

  • 100% pass rate
  • Average school grade of 7 (out of a maximum of 9)
  • Each student sits between 6 and 8 subjects
  • Average grades in many subjects exceed the UK national average

Examination results are published annually on the school’s official website, social media platforms and information brochures.

Teaching Staff

The school operates a rigorous, multi-stage teacher recruitment process, which includes CV screening, verification of qualifications and certifications, reference checks, interviews, and a compulsory demonstration lesson attended by academic leaders, followed by feedback from students and observing teachers.

The educational process is delivered by a team of teachers from Russia, the United Kingdom, Australia, Switzerland, South Africa, Italy, France and other countries. The majority of international teachers hold British teaching qualifications and have extensive experience working in international schools around the world.

International Environment

The International School of St Petersburg (ISSPb) is home to students from 23 countries, including France, Germany, Turkey, China, South Korea, Azerbaijan, Chile, Vietnam, the United Kingdom and many others. For many of these children, Russian is not their native language. As a result, education takes place in a naturally multilingual environment, where English serves as the common language of communication and learning. Students adapt daily to an international setting, develop intercultural communication skills and cultivate a global mindset.

Holistic Development

The International School of St Petersburg (ISSPb) places a strong emphasis on the harmonious and holistic development of each child, viewing personal growth as an integral part of the educational process. Within this framework, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular and enrichment activities designed to nurture individual talents, creativity, communication skills and physical wellbeing.

Music education includes vocal training and instruction in a variety of musical instruments, such as piano, violin, flute, saxophone and percussion. These activities support the development of musical ear, sense of rhythm, discipline and aesthetic appreciation.

Arts and Design & Technology focus on developing creative thinking, imagination and project-based skills, as well as the ability to independently seek solutions and bring creative ideas to life.

Drama and acting help students develop expressive speech, self-confidence, emotional intelligence, public speaking skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Sports provision includes a wide range of activities such as swimming, football, basketball and chess. These are aimed at strengthening physical health, building endurance and coordination, developing strategic thinking, and fostering a lasting motivation for a healthy lifestyle.

Trial Days and Holiday Programmes

Throughout the academic year, the school offers students the opportunity to attend a free trial day. Prior to the visit, parents are asked to provide information on allergies, medical conditions and physical activity levels. Students transferring from another school are required to submit an academic report.

In addition, the school offers opportunities to immerse children in the English language and the international curriculum through the following formats:

  • One-week programmes during the autumn and spring holidays (twice a year)
  • A full summer learning programme in June

These options allow children to deepen their engagement with the English language, become familiar with the ENC approach, and help families determine whether our school meets their expectations.

The International School of St. Petersburg ISSPb is a place where children are inspired, develop, and achieve outstanding results in a safe, supportive, and truly international atmosphere.

We look forward to seeing you at ISSPb!

Sign up for a trial day or consultation:

📞 +7 (812) 339-33-39

✉️ info@isspb.school

🌐 Russia, St. Petersburg, Kolpinskaya St., 9