High School (age 14-18 / S3-S6)
Reflective young adults in a diverse and open-minded environment
Our High School programme empowers students to become confident and well-rounded young adults, embracing greater independence and responsibility.
A High School journey full of opportunities
High school is a time for students to get serious about their studies, but it’s also about making great friends, gaining more independence, and exploring their unique passions and talents. We offer the globally-recognised IB Diploma qualifications and within our accredited high school diploma we have flexible pathways so that students can find the route that’s right for them and their future. Students can also get involved in a wide range of activities that broaden their horizons, make a difference in the community, and prepare them for whatever comes next.

Continuing to develop their global perspective
Students expand their understanding of the world through a wide array of activities and experiences
A day in the life of . . . Jamin
Learn about a typical day for one of our high school students, Jamin.
Off-Campus Learning & Expeditions
Our field trips are designed to challenge students, build resilience, and put global citizenship into action.
We’re an IB World School
Find out all about what that means for students in the High School at ISA
Planning future pathways
Learn more about how we help students find the perfect route to their chosen university and career.
An international education for global citizens
We offer flexible pathways but we know there’s a lot to take in! Read on for more information and click to jump to our broader curriculum page.
Can students choose which qualification they would like to study for?
Yes! ISA’s High School curriculum has been developed to support the ambition of our students as they follow the academic pathway of their choice during their final school years.
We have a dedicated High School counsellor who works with each student on an individual basis to help them make the right choices for them regarding their chosen academic pathway and their career aspirations.
While the majority of students will complete the full IB Diploma, ISA offers a range of flexible graduation qualifications and pathways that are recognised and respected in Scotland, the UK and across the world.
Learn more by clicking here.
Why do you not have Scottish or British (English) Qualifications?
We love being a part of our local community here in Scotland, but we chose the IB qualifications because they reflect what we value as an international school. It allows our students to be global citizens, while being an incredibly rich academic programme, which is now the world’s most highly regarded school leaving qualification.
We particularly like that the IB focuses not just on what we teach, but how we teach it. How do we build skills of collaboration, critical thinking, creativity and caring whilst learning? This is something that we particularly value at ISA.
We are proud of our heritage of being the only school in the North of Scotland offering this contemporary and broad education. It is more than a programme choice; it is part of our DNA.
Read more about the IB on our Insight Hub.
How can I learn more about the IB diploma programme?
You can visit here to learn more or ask us if you have questions – we’d love to chat to you.
What kind of university and career support is available?
We provide dedicated, one-to-one support for every student. Our High School counsellor works with each student to explore their career aspirations and navigate the entire university application process, from choosing the right courses to preparing applications for institutions in the UK and internationally. Read more about this here LINK TO BE ADDED
How does the IB Diploma compare to Scottish Highers or A-Levels for university entry?
The IB Diploma is highly regarded by universities worldwide, including all top UK and Scottish institutions. It is known for its academic rigour and for developing independent, well-rounded students, which makes IB graduates very attractive candidates for competitive courses.
Where do ISA graduates typically go on to study?
Our graduates attend a diverse range of excellent universities in Scotland, across the UK, and internationally. The IB Diploma is highly respected and opens doors to top institutions globally, reflecting our commitment to preparing students for a future without borders. See this news section for details of where some of our most recent students have gone on to study.
Do you have a head boy and girl?
We do things a bit differently here at ISA when it comes to student leadership. We don’t have school prefects or a head boy or girl and other traditional badges of leadership.
Instead, we help all our students develop leadership qualities by focusing on “voice and agency”, giving them opportunities to have a say in things that affect their life and environment and the ability to make choices that will achieve their chosen outcomes.
Is there still time for sport or music activities in High School
Of course! We believe that pursuing interests outside of academics is essential for student wellbeing and a balanced life.
High school students are strongly encouraged to make time for their passions. Our modern performance, art, and sports facilities are available to everyone. Whether students want to join a sports team, play in the jazz band, take up a new creative hobby, or just relax with friends, there are countless opportunities to develop skills and recharge.
What is the homework policy and expected workload?
The workload in High School is designed to prepare students for further study, and increases as you go through the years, but we strongly emphasise a healthy balance. Teachers coordinate to ensure homework, which we refer to as home learning, is purposeful and manageable, allowing students to pursue extracurricular interests, which we see as vital for their wellbeing.
What academic support is available if a student is struggling?
We have a strong support system in place. Students are encouraged to seek extra help from their teachers, who are always happy to assist; there are also focused after school sessions for support in specific subjects. In addition, we offer dedicated learning support to ensure every student has the tools they need to succeed.
Is there a dress code or uniform in High School?
High School students do not wear a uniform. We have a relaxed dress code that allows for personal expression while still ensuring a respectful and focused learning environment for everyone.
How does the school support student wellbeing and mental health?
Student wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our dedicated counsellor, school nurse and strong advisory system ensure that every student is known and supported. We foster an open and caring environment where students feel comfortable seeking support whenever they need it.
Our High School Team
Meet the dedicated professionals supporting our students.

Stuart MacAlpine
Middle and High School Principal

Sarah Cusworth
Middle and High School Assistant Principal

Heather Barker
HS Counsellor

Alison Yesildag
Middle and High School Administrator
Facilities
A place to study, relax and thrive
Our tranquil, green campus is home to the very best facilities to support a balanced High School life. For downtime, students can use the gym, weights room, swimming pool, and climbing wall. For focused study, a dedicated Grade 11 and 12 workroom and a teacher-supported study hall are available all day. These resources, along with our experienced international staff, support our students to ensure they are ready for whatever comes next.
“I came to teach at ISA with the intention of spending two or three years exploring Scotland before moving on to another adventure. That was ten years ago. I have never experienced a school that balances individual student needs and an expectation of excellence so well as ISA. The way students respond to the environment is inspirational, and I find myself as excited for what we’re doing in year ten as I was in year one.”
Cruz Ordonez
High School Language & Literature Teacher
“The staff are excellent and caring, the after-school activity programme offers something for everyone, and the wider school community is incredibly welcoming. We’ve been at ISA for over 8 years now and can’t imagine going anywhere else. Students are encouraged to build on their strengths but are also challenged to take risks and try something new. Our daughter has gone from being extremely shy to standing in front of the whole school performing a solo. The students love coming to school every day, which is the highest praise I think anyone can give.”
Michelle Aitken
Parent of Grade 8 Student
“ISA encourages you to be your own person and is very welcoming. It suits people of all different personalities, with their own academic goals, and provides an environment where you can decide for yourself your goals and what you want to excel in.”
Ivan Delozari
Class of 2025 ISA graduate
“ISA is a welcoming, vibrant and highly inclusive environment for learning. Through innovative whole-school initiatives, children and young people are developing personal leadership qualities that prepare them particularly well for learning, life and work. The highly-skilled and motivated staff deliver learning that is well-paced and planned carefully to meet the needs and interests of all children. There is a respectful, calm and nurturing environment in classes and this leads to learners feeling well supported in their learning.”
HM Inspectors
Education Scotland Inspection Report 2023
It’s just a really nice atmosphere. I think that because it’s such a community, you get to know everyone very well, and the teachers even more. They’re not just there to get you through the content; they actually know each student very well. It’s a real community. The relationships, the opportunities, the support. It’s something special. There’s space to be yourself and space to grow.
Marla Carmichael
Class of 2025 ISA graduate
ISA is a school filled with all types of people. I truly believe there isn’t many schools like it. No matter where you’re from, what you’ve been through, or how you’ve lived, there’s always someone who’s your match. At ISA I think all of us students follow one rule, even though we’ve never been told to. This rule is that we won’t let anyone walk alone.
Faris
Grade 7 Student
ISA has provided a perfect balance for our children to grow up Scottish but with a strong global mindset and a curiosity for other parts of the world. The IB programme is providing them with a well-rounded, globally recognised education that will best prepare them for university and beyond.
JT & Andrea Hewitt
Parents of 4 ISA students
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Image gallery
Click through these images to see our students enjoying life at ISA’s high school!