The vast majority of ISB students and their families are not from Belgium and many do not speak either French or Dutch, the two major languages of the country.  This means that there is a thorough understanding of what it is like to be new in a place and from this understanding an excellent network of support has been built up. All members of the family are included in the life of the school. Our active and thriving Family Association organizes a range of events to welcome the newcomer and individual friendships are quickly made.

The children probably settle in the quickest as their fellow students understand just what it is like to be new and, encouraged by their teachers, are quick to include the newcomers.  As a community where there are constant comings and goings, we also take care to say goodbye properly... and, through our Alumni Association, we stay in touch.

Brussels and its surrounding areas have a range of good quality housing to suit most families' needs. Many companies and organisations bringing staff to Brussels use the services of a relocation agency, of which there are many.

The agents know their areas well and have up-to-date information on the school's bus routes: pick up points, length of journey etc. ISB's bus coordinator, Isabelle Castiaux, is also available to give information on the bus routes.

For those not supported by relocation agents, the local newspapers carry property pages each week.  The English-language magazine "The Bulletin" has regular advertisements for rented and for sale property. 

Brussels is a city of many languages and its citizens have impressive language skills. English is very widely spoken.  Once you've arrived, however, we would recommend learning at least one of the official languages of Belgium (French, Dutch and German).  There are many language schools available.  Look at our own Lifelong Learning Centre programme first to see what we offer.