Located right in the heart of Brussels, Belgium, Montgomery International School (MIS) caters to students from elementary through secondary years (ages 51/2 to 19). The school, incepted in 2007 and formerly known as École Internationale Montgomery (EIM), is driven by its mission to create a safe and supportive environment where students are not afraid to take risks, enabling them to reach their full potential. As expressed in its motto, “ “Be Kind. Be Bold. Be Your Best Self.”, the school’s culture revolves around kindness, curiosity and respect, and strongly supports individual aspirations.
Montgomery International School’s guiding principles focus on an innovative curriculum, a commitment to academic growth, and a deep understanding of its students. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills, encouraging independent thinking and collaboration. This approach prepares students for the challenges of university and beyond.
Benefits of IB education
Montgomery International School chose to offer the renowned IB program throughout the school sections because it perfectly aligns with the school’s philosophy of supporting each and every student to reach their full potential. Its hands-on approach and project-based learning allows students to build confidence and become independent learners.
Throughout the day, children are exposed to real-life engagement and activities. They work around various themes, which are explored in multiple subjects – such as English, French, Math, Sciences and Theatre – aligning with the IB transdisciplinary practice. With the support of teachers, students are encouraged to explore the materials independently and discover what they can accomplish on their own, which helps them reflect on their actions and potential outcomes
MIS has chosen to exclusively offer the IB Programme, confident that with the right support and a dedicated team of educators, every student can navigate the challenges of this rigorous curriculum and ultimately earn the IB Diploma. “For six consecutive years, we’ve achieved a 100% pass rate in the IB Diploma Programme, a feat I’m incredibly proud of, especially as a non-selective school. We believe in the potential of every child and trust that, regardless of any learning challenges they may face, our pedagogical team can guide them on a journey of growth and success,” says Danielle Franzén, head of school.
Igniting Academic Passion Through Project-based Learning
At Montgomery International School, a balance of academic rigor with personal development is achieved through a unique blend of hands-on, project-based learning and opportunities for self-discovery. Beyond the traditional academic subjects, the school’s pedagogy encourages students to engage in projects that not only challenges them academically but also allows them to explore personal interests and passions.
For example, in PYP5 (Grade 5), students explore a central theme throughout the year, with each student selecting a more specific topic within that theme. If the common theme is “our planet,” students might focus on subjects like “endangered animals,” “biodiversity,” or “pollution.” They dedicate significant effort to research, ensuring they use reliable sources, gathering visuals, and crafting their written content. All this hard work leads to a compelling exhibition, which is showcased to parents at the end of the year. Even the shyest students are well-prepared to stand confidently before an audience and deliver an articulate talk about their project.
In MYP5 (Grade 10), students have a year to undertake a personal project that they will manage from start to finish with the support of a supervisor and the Personal Project coordinator. They are encouraged to explore a new interest or pursue a passion they already have. Each year showcases a diverse array of personal projects, reflecting the creativity and independence of the students. Past projects have included creating and performing a choreography for a poem, producing a video about life in North Korea, building an eco-house model, writing a “You are the Hero” book, designing a flamenco dress, etc.
In parallel, MYP4 (Grade 9) students engage in a Mini Enterprise project, working in teams to develop an idea into a product that can be sold at fairs and other special events. A teacher guides them through the process, helping them understand how to bring a product to market, starting with conducting a market survey and creating a business plan, and ending with marketing and communication strategies. Along the way, they acquire valuable skills such as teamwork, leadership, creativity, and communication. Previous projects have included ’Yarnimals’, decorative knitted animals, ‘Beapy Heat’, an e-fork that detects food temperature, ‘Lit Up’ a series of decorative candles, etc.
In line with its mission to ignite a passion for learning, MIS offers theater starting as early as PYP1 (Grade 1) as an integral part of the curriculum. These classes extend beyond traditional theater, equipping students with a diverse range of skills that will serve them throughout their lives. During the year, students design sets and costumes, interpret original plays, rewrite scripts, and utilize video to enhance their projects, exploring all facets of theater. Their efforts culminate in an end-of-year performance at a prestigious Brussels theater, showcasing their work to the entire school community. In recent years, students have reimagined and performed a variety of scripts, including The Lion King, The Taming of the Shrew, Shrek, The Jungle Book, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Such undertakings allow students to not only dive deeply into areas they are excited about but also expose them to new fields, thereby helping them develop critical thinking, creativity, and a love for learning. This pedagogy ensures that while academic growth remains a priority, personal development and curiosity are equally nurtured.
Transformative Learning Initiatives
Beyond traditional academics, the IB includes requirements such as CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) and Service as Action Days, which encourage students to seek out new opportunities, embrace challenges, and adapt to different roles. Montgomery International School is fully committed to guiding students in choosing challenging projects that will push them beyond their comfort zones and help them build confidence.
To pass the CAS core element, DP students (Grades 11 and 12) are required to dedicate a certain amount of time to projects centered on Creativity, Activity, and Service. They often collaborate with Serve the City Brussels on various initiatives, such as assembling care packages for those in need or volunteering at a soup kitchen. For an activity project, one student challenged himself to run the renowned ‘20km of Brussels,’ while a creative project involved the production of an EP, handling everything from writing and composing to recording. As a rule, MIS strongly encourages students to engage in meaningful CAS activities, like fundraising for a cause or taking on challenging sports endeavors, as personal achievements increasingly enhance university applications.
Similarly, Service as Action Days at Montgomery International School are dedicated events where students engage in community service projects, fostering a spirit of empathy and civic engagement. These events provide students with hands-on opportunities to make a positive impact while gaining a deeper understanding of social responsibility. In the past, students have partnered with Bruxelles Propreté to help clean up public spaces, volunteered at animal shelters, and spent time at centers for individuals with disabilities, raising awareness about their challenges. Through these experiences, students not only contribute to their communities but also develop a greater awareness of social issues and the importance of civic engagement.
The Advanced Bilingual Program vs the English Program
Montgomery International School offers two distinct programmes starting in PYP2 (Grade 2) i.e. the advanced bilingual track and the English track. Both tracks aim to provide a high-quality education while developing and/or perfecting essential language skills in today’s global society.
In the English track, all subjects are taught in English, except for French as a second language. This program accommodates students at various levels of English proficiency, including those with no prior knowledge, enabling them to enhance their language skills over time. Until the DP program (Grades 11 & 12), students can enroll regardless of their fluency.
The advanced bilingual track provides an immersive experience with instruction in both French and English. In the PYP (Primary School), instruction is split 50% in French and 50% in English. As students progress to the MYP (Grades 6-10), the balance shifts to 70% English and 30% French. In the DP (Grades 11 and 12), students pursuing the Advanced Bilingual Diploma study a second language as Language and Literature and another subject in the same language (e.g. History in French). The advanced bilingual program is designed to encourage students to develop academic competency in both languages, even if they are not initially fluent in French.
Students initially placed in the English program, can transition to the bilingual program as their French improves. This is strongly encouraged by teachers as bilingualism is not only a tool for academic success but also a means of fostering cross-cultural understanding.
Language Proficiency
Thanks to small class sizes, a strong differentiation system and a dedicated learning support teacher, students can join Montgomery International School with little or no knowledge of English up until MYP5 (Grade 10). These measures are designed to ensure that students quickly develop a functional proficiency in English.
In Primary (Grades 1-5), some children start with no prior knowledge of English or French. To best lead them through language proficiency, MIS offers extra language support lessons in smaller groups, and/or direct support within the classroom. While language is mainly acquired in the language classes students also expand their skills in the social studies class, which are taught in either English in the English Program or French in the bilingual program.
In MYP (Grades 6 to 10), small class sizes facilitate effective differentiation, enabling various phases of language learning to occur simultaneously. For those with no or little knowledge of French, the curriculum includes French as Language Acquisition. Supervised Studies is also available after school, allowing students to receive additional support in languages or any other subjects they may need help with.
Additionally, Montgomery International School has implemented a cross age tutoring system where older students assist their peers with their language skills.
Fostering Cross-Cultural Understanding
Beyond languages, the school offers a diverse curriculum that integrates global perspectives and encourages students to learn about different cultures. It also has inclusive policies designed to accommodate the needs of students from all backgrounds – this includes language support for non-native speakers, and a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination. “We encourage open communication between students, teachers and families, and our top priority is that everyone feels valued and supported,” states Danielle Franzén, Head of School.
To foster cross-cultural understanding, Montgomery International School encourages the exploration of social topics such as racism, feminism, and LGBTQ+ rights. These subjects are addressed either within class units or through dedicated clubs. Teachers often have to facilitate these conversations emphasizing the importance of listening to one another. With students from diverse cultures and belief systems, it is essential for them to learn to set aside personal convictions and cultivate a culture of mutual respect and understanding.
Additionally, every year high school students have the opportunity to participate in a Model United Nations (MUN) event. MUN is an educational simulation where students represent countries and debate global issues, mimicking the UN’s procedures. It enhances public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork while deepening students’ understanding of international relations.
Such focus on cross cultural understanding is particularly important for students aiming to work or study in international environments. The emphasis on two languages and intercultural communication prepares students for successful careers in international business, diplomacy, and global organizations.
Nurturing a Supportive & Inclusive Environment for Students
With over 50 nationalities, Montgomery International School provides a safe and nurturing environment that supports all students.
Knowledge of their students is one of the school’s main guiding principles. Teachers make a concerted effort to establish connections by delving into the students’ background, interests, and their prior education. Activities are tailored to accommodate different levels and needs, and the small class sizes ensure personalized attention. Students can also receive one-on-one support if needed within the classroom or with a dedicated learning support teacher.
Similarly, Montgomery International School promotes open communication and trust between teachers and students. Teachers are approachable, which encourages students to ask questions and take risks. Through various activities both inside and outside the classroom, they develop strong bonds with their students, leading to effective teaching and enabling them to better guide students in reaching their full potential
To ease the anxiety of the first day of school, especially for students coming from a foreign country and a different school system, each student is paired with a buddy who will show them around the school and introduce them to their peers. Additionally, on the very first day of school, teachers organize games and activities to ensure that children mingle and get to know each other. The Parents’ Association also organizes a picnic in the early fall, as well as other events throughout the year, which help children and parents get to know each other and strengthen the MIS community. Interactions between students are initiated through school-wide events, such as an all-school Sports Day and an International Food Festival. The school also encourages cross age activities where older students tutor and supervise their younger peers, fostering a sense of responsibility. These interactions create a supportive and inclusive environment within our community.
Finally, Montgomery International School has adopted Restorative Justice as a conflict resolution tool, focusing on addressing conflict and harm through dialogue and understanding. Instead of simply punishing misbehavior, it encourages students to take responsibility for their actions, make amends, and restore relationships. This progressive method promotes accountability, empathy, and the development of social-emotional intelligence.
Beyond school
Montgomery International School tailors its extracurricular activities each year based on parent feedback. Currently, offerings include Dance, individual or group Piano and/or Guitar classes, Coding, Book Club, Visual Art, Tennis, and a Sports Club. All these activities are coordinated with the goal of enriching students’ potential.
Field trips are also a big part of Montgomery International School’s education beyond the classroom. The school’s central location enables students to fully engage with the diverse cultural and institutional offerings of a major capital like Brussels. Visits to landmarks such as the European Parliament, NATO, RTBF (a public broadcasting service), the Magritte Museum, the Comic Book Museum, and the Planetarium provide enriching experiences that can be directly tied to students’ subjects of study.
In addition to extracurricular activities, Montgomery International School organizes distinctive overnight trips tailored to specific grade levels (Grades 3-5, 6-10 and 11-12). Past excursions have included destinations like Rome, Barcelona, Paris, and Denmark, with a planned trip to Iceland in 2025. In addition to cultural explorations, students also have the opportunity to enjoy outdoor experiences such as rock climbing, biking or kayaking. These adventures create lasting memories while strengthening the bonds between students and teachers. They are aimed to foster connections that would not be possible within the classroom, such as singing karaoke with the head of school or dancing flamenco with a physics teacher.
Strategic Roadmap
Currently, Montgomery International School is looking into renting additional space around its present campus to improve the learning of its students while keeping its family atmosphere and maintaining strong connections between students and teachers. Since September 2023, Montgomery has proudly joined the Ermitage Group, which includes Ermitage International School in Maisons-Laffitte and Sainte Victoire International School in Aix-en-Provence, France. This exciting partnership opens up opportunities for student exchanges, sports competitions, and cultural collaboration between the schools. It also enables their teachers and staff to share resources and engage in joint professional development, fostering a more connected and enriched educational environment.
For More Info: https://www.mischool.be/