Why Choose Our Middle School in Brussels?
As a leading middle school in Brussels, Belgium, we produce confident, curious and multi-skilled learners who set high standards, academically and personally, and are well-equipped to become leaders of tomorrow.
Our ambitious curriculum, based on the globally recognised International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP), aims to build critical skills and personal qualities and is underpinned by an effective interdisciplinary model that promotes practical learning and problem-solving.
By fostering linguistic versatility and confidence in different languages, we help learners become skilled communicators who thrive as active, engaged leaders with excellent prospects in our global society.
Students of all abilities enjoy stimulating extracurriculars designed to nurture their talents in academics, sports and the creative and performing arts. They emerge from our Waterloo middle school confident and with in-demand skills that allow them to flourish in high school and well beyond.
A Well-Rounded Middle School Programme
Supported throughout the middle school years by a team of talented IB specialists, learners embark on a rigorous syllabus based on the IB Middle Years Programme. The programme encourages students to explore various issues and ideas of local, national and global significance, becoming active, critical and creative thinkers. The MYP emphasises intellectual challenge, prompting students to connect their learning in traditional subjects with the real world.
A Well-Rounded Middle School Programme
Supported throughout the middle school years by a team of talented IB specialists, learners embark on a rigorous syllabus based on the IB Middle Years Programme. The programme encourages students to explore various issues and ideas of local, national and global significance, becoming active, critical and creative thinkers. The MYP emphasises intellectual challenge, prompting students to connect their learning in traditional subjects with the real world.
Subjects and Themes of the MYP
The IB MYP uses an interdisciplinary approach to learning which challenges students to find solutions to real-world problems, such as famine, conflict and climate change. Pupils must complete annual interdisciplinary units of inquiry as well as take part in other less formal activities throughout each grade level. Where appropriate, we use local contexts as the basis for investigation, to ensure that our learners are gaining maximum impact from their studies.
The curriculum consists of eight subject groups: Language Acquisition; Language and Literature; Individuals and Societies; Sciences; Mathematics; Arts; Physical and Health Education; and Design.
In the fourth and fifth year of the IB Middle Years Programme, students take courses from six of the eight subject groups. This flexibility provides space for each learner to tailor their studies according to their study goals for middle school and later school years.
Students at St. John's are encouraged to take individual responsibility for their learning, and a key part of middle school education is 'Service Learning'. The curriculum for each of the MYP years promotes service action, which might include, for example, a study of homelessness, coupled with a warm clothing drive for those in need in our local community. This is a practical way for pupils to develop their IB Learner Profile attributes, encouraging an international mindset while also recognising their common humanity.
We consistently monitor student progress through various assessment methods. Our middle school stays current with ongoing developments in the IB programme and implements policies that best serve our students' needs.
Languages in Our Middle School
As an international school in Waterloo, Brussels, we place great emphasis on language learning in the middle school years. Our young pupils are encouraged to become bilingual and biliterate, developing skills that go further than language acquisition and fluency to have a positive impact on problem-solving, focus and academic performance in other subject areas. We want our international students to be able to stay connected with their language and heritage, and as part of an international community we understand how important it is to be able to understand the nuances of another culture.
In Grades 6-8, our students can study two to three languages depending on their programme. In Grades 9 and 10, students can participate in our extensive Mother Tongue Programme, which includes tutelage in Portuguese, Italian, German, Swedish, Norwegian, Korean, Japanese and Turkish.
Highly Experienced Middle School Teachers
Teachers at our middle school are all highly experienced, qualified professionals who deliver our academic courses with the utmost care for each child's individual needs. Informed by their rigorous training in the IB Middle Years Programme, they bring a deep knowledge and understanding of our programme supported by practical experience in a range of teaching and learning models.
At our middle school in Waterloo, Brussels, personalised teaching helps students to excel across subjects. Our dedicated middle school practitioners work hard to instil critical thinking and self-management skills, while also ensuring that pupils are able to see their learning in the context of both local and global events.
Middle School Learning Facilities
Our cutting-edge middle school facilities are thoughtfully designed to support the needs of our vibrant learning community. We welcome learners into a premium environment that inspires academic success and growth in their chosen pursuits, whether in sports, the arts or other areas.
Each classroom in our middle school boasts excellent tools and resources chosen to elevate learning provision and boost engagement with the core curriculum. The learning environment mirrors the real world by providing exposure to advanced technology, from VR headsets to modern lab equipment.
As part of a well-rounded middle school education, we offer unparalleled creative and performing arts facilities, including a 400-seat professional theatre and a gallery hosting visual-art exhibitions. Extensive sports facilities give learners the chance to develop physical and athletic abilities, while enjoying multiple courts, grassy areas, an astroturf football patch and two indoor arenas.
Extracurriculars in Our Middle School
While attending our middle school, pupils are encouraged to discover and nurture their unique interests and develop into confident, capable, multi-skilled learners. Enriching extracurriculars are a key element of a well-rounded middle school education: at our Waterloo middle school, activities are carefully planned to not only boost engagement with academics, sports and the creative and performing arts but also develop extensive skills and specialist knowledge that are crucial for future success in academic and professional settings.
Academic extracurricular activities, such as Coding and Science competitions, allow learners to extend and apply the skills gained in the classroom. Budding artists hone and showcase their talents in expansive options in the creative and performing arts, including Theatre, Dance, Choir and Art Club. Our sports programme promotes physical fitness and teaches valuable life skills, including teamwork, leadership, and resilience, while also nurturing athletic excellence. From beginners to advanced athletes, we have options for all students, including (but not limited to) Football, Swimming, Cross Country, Basketball, Climbing Wall, Volleyball and Athletics. Our Sports programme follows a three-season model with activities year-round, including partnerships with local football and basketball clubs. As a NECIS member, we compete locally and internationally, focusing on growth, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Transportation
A convenient bus service is available for families around Waterloo and the greater Brussels region. Door-to-door service is provided wherever possible, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for students. For specific pick-up and drop-off times tailored to your needs, our dedicated bus coordinator is here to assist you.
Parent Involvement
We believe that education is a partnership between school and home. As such, we encourage parents to be actively involved in school life. Regular parent-teacher meetings, workshops and events provide opportunities for parents to stay well-informed about their child's progress, become part of the St. John’s community, and learn more about our primary years programme.
To find out more about our parent initiatives and get involved, please click on the button below.
Contact Us Today
Discover how our middle school in Brussels can unleash your child’s unique potential, in the classroom, onstage and on the sports field. Join our vibrant international community and set your child on the path to unlimited success.
