Quick summary of key school information
School details
| Number of students |
220 |
| Number of nationalities represented in the school |
35 |
| Most common nationality |
French |
| Ratio of local students to international students |
65% international students 35% local students |
| Native English and French speaking teachers |
Yes |
| Language support for students not fluent in English and French |
Yes |
| Additional language classes offered by the school |
Spanish. Chinese, German |
| Max. number of students per class |
22 |
| Average number of students per class |
15 |
| Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
| Use of technology in the classroom |
At International School 33, technology is integrated thoughtfully and progressively. Students begin learning how to use digital tools towards the end of primary school, where they are introduced to responsible use of devices, research skills, and basic digital literacy. From middle school onwards, students have dedicated technology and digital skills lessons. However, technology does not dominate classroom time — we maintain a balanced approach, ensuring that screen use supports learning rather than replacing traditional pedagogical methods. In high school, students who wish to pursue a deeper interest in technology can choose Computer Science as part of the IB Diploma Programme. This allows them to develop advanced skills in programming, computational thinking, and problem-solving. Our philosophy is to use technology as a meaningful tool to enhance learning, while preserving strong foundations in critical thinking, communication, and human interaction. |
| Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online during emergencies) |
Yes, and we have done it very successfully |
| Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
No |
| External examinations or assessments available |
IB Diploma, IB certificate, IB Career-related Programme, IB e-assessment, Cambridge exams, Cervantes, HSK, diplôme national du brevet |
| Results in these examinations |
In line with their predicted grades. |
| Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes |
| Approximate hours of homework given |
Yes, teachers do assign homework, but it is carefully structured according to age and stage. In primary school, homework is designed to review concepts that have already been taught in class. It is given one week in advance and never includes new material to learn independently. The goal is reinforcement, not pressure. In middle school, students begin to receive slightly more homework, although our school policy is to avoid overloading them. A significant amount of learning takes place during class time through differentiated instruction, allowing students to progress effectively within the school day. We believe that after-school time should also allow children to develop other important skills and interests — such as sports, the arts, and personal passions. In high school, particularly within the IB Diploma Programme, academic expectations are more demanding. Students who aim to achieve excellent results must dedicate a meaningful amount of time to independent study. This prepares them not only for strong IB outcomes, but also for the academic rigor of university. Our approach is always to maintain a healthy balance between academic excellence and overall well-being. |
| Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
Almost all of our students go on to attend a higher education institution after graduating from our school. With the exception of a very small number who may choose to take a gap year, which remains quite rare, the vast majority continue directly to university, both in France and internationally. Our academic preparation, particularly through the IB Diploma Programme and its certificate, ensures that students are well equipped to access and succeed in higher education. |
| Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes |
| Learning support offered |
At International School 33, our small class sizes allow us to individualise both learning pathways and objectives for each student. Teachers are able to closely monitor progress and adapt instruction according to individual needs. We work in close collaboration with external specialists who may be supporting the student (speech therapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, etc.). Our teaching teams carefully follow their recommendations to ensure consistency between school and therapeutic guidance. When necessary, students can be supported by a dedicated learning support assistant (AVS). This support may be provided for a few hours per week or, in some cases, throughout the entire school day, depending on the student’s needs. Our goal is always to provide a structured, caring, and inclusive environment that enables each student to progress with confidence. |
| The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
At International School 33, we welcome many gifted, able and talented students, and supporting them is one of our strengths. Students are not placed strictly according to their age group, but according to their academic level and readiness. This flexible approach allows them to progress at an appropriate pace and ensures that their intellectual potential is fully nurtured. Through differentiated instruction and personalised learning pathways, we make sure that gifted students are consistently challenged. Our teachers adapt objectives, deepen content, and encourage independent research, critical thinking and creative problem-solving. The goal is simple: they should never feel bored in class, but always stimulated and engaged. We also encourage them to explore their passions beyond the core curriculum — whether in mathematics, sciences, humanities, languages or the arts — so that their motivation remains high and meaningful. Thanks to this structured and supportive environment, many of our students graduate with one or more years in advance, fully prepared for ambitious academic pathways and highly competitive universities. Our philosophy is to combine excellence with balance, ensuring that gifted students grow not only academically, but also personally and socially. |
| Student access to education psychologist |
No, but we can recommend external psychologists that are used to working with our students. |
| Entry evaluation for students |
No, we do not organise formal entry exams or high-pressure screening tests. We are aware that assessments can sometimes be a source of stress for students, and our philosophy is to avoid unnecessary pressure. Instead, we carefully review the student’s academic records and previous school reports. We always meet with families as part of the admissions process to better understand the child’s profile, strengths and needs. When necessary, we may also contact the previous school to ensure continuity and proper placement. Our goal is not to “test” students, but to ensure that each child joins the class level that will allow them to thrive academically and personally. |
| Waiting list |
There can be a waiting list. |
| Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
No deadline |
| Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes |
| School start time |
8:30 am |
| School finish time |
In kindergarten and primary at 4:00 pm, in middle and high school, depending on the options, between 3:00 and 5:00 pm. |
| Supervised care before/after school |
Yes |
| School bus service available |
Yes, Bordeaux-Gradignan |
| School provided lunches |
Yes, but there is a possibility to bring your own lunch. |
| Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes |
| Uniform required |
Yes |
| Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
Model United Nations, chess, theater, dance, self-defense, arts, piano, guitar, singing, Cambridge club, robotics etc. |
| Sports activities included |
Judo, and various sports during the school year. |
| Facilities at the school |
Science lab, library, arts class. |
| Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
International School 33 is one of 5,300 schools that teach International Baccalaureate® (IB) programs to over one million students around the world. All IB World Schools are distinguished by their pedagogical rigor and emphasize the critical thinking skills, diversity and personal growth of their students. At IS 33, teaching is bilingual in English and French in kindergarten and primary. Students therefore study all subjects (mathematics, language, natural and human sciences, art and personal, social and physical education), in both languages, as many hours in French as in English. In middle and high school, bilingual students enter the international section in order to study English language and literature. They will thus take bilingual IB exams at the end of their course. Non-bilingual students join a section dedicated to them. |
| Teaching approach of the school |
IS33’s mission is to encourage students to become active, compassionate, tolerant, open-minded and life long-learners who are proud of their own values and beliefs and ready to contribute to a better world. |