As well as academic excellence, IS33 offers a dynamic environment with varied extra-curricular activities, international events and a rich school life that contribute to the development of each student.
Fun immersion in English from age 3, every Wednesday
Discipline, respect and self-confidence from the age of 4 and a half
Diplomatic simulations for global citizens
An immersive English Club from kindergarten (3-11 years)
Every Wednesday, International School 33, a bilingual international school in Gradignan, near Bordeaux, opens its doors to children from kindergarten to the end of CM2 (aged 3 to 11) for immersive workshops in English.
The sessions are led by Philippa, a qualified and experienced English-speaking teacher, accompanied by Sophie, a French-speaking assistant. The children learn in a caring and reassuring environment, with age-appropriate activities that encourage curiosity, self-confidence and the pleasure of learning a foreign language.
The English Club is not just an English course: it's an immersive experience where children learn naturally, through games, creative projects and cultural discoveries. Every Wednesday, a new theme stimulates their imagination and enriches their English vocabulary.
Participation in activities is encouraged, but never imposed. Quiet alternatives are offered for children who prefer other occupations.
Natural learning through play, creativity and interaction in an international setting with an experienced and passionate team.
Philippa, a qualified English-speaking teacher, and Sophie, a French-speaking assistant, look after the children with kindness and professionalism.
Treasure hunt, artistic creations in seasonal colours.
Cook like a privateer, learn the vocabulary of sailors and create inspired works of art.
Origami and a collaborative fresco on harmony.
Discover traditions, cookery and creative workshops.
Pumpkin carving, decorations and costume parade in English.
Throughout the year, other themes are added to the English Club so that the children can associate English with moments of joy, play and sharing.
Audience: children aged 3 to 11 (kindergarten and primary - Grande Section to grade 5)
Day: every Wednesday (excluding school holidays)
From the age of 3, from kindergarten onwards. The club welcomes children up to grade 5 (11 years old).
No. The English Club is designed for beginners as well as for children already exposed to English. Immersion through play allows everyone to progress at their own pace.
No. Participation is always suggested, never imposed. Alternative activities are offered to children who prefer quiet time or another occupation.
The workshops are run by Philippa, a qualified English-speaking teacher, and Sophie, a French-speaking assistant, who are used to working with kindergarten and primary school children.
The workshops take place on the premises of International School 33, in Gradignan, in rooms suitable for creative activities, games and quiet time.
At International School 33, judo is an integral part of the educational project. From the age of 4 and a half, pupils can practise this sport as part of their school curriculum, in a structured and caring environment.
The French Judo Federation has welcomed the introduction of judo into the school curriculum. All Montessori judokas are members of the French Judo Federation and pass their grades at the end of the year.
Including judo in the school curriculum offers every child the chance to take part in a sport with high educational values, in a peaceful and caring environment.
Judo is a complete sport that contributes to a child's overall development. In particular, it allows you to work on :
Respecting the rules
Respect for others
Respect for yourself and your body
Self-confidence
Managing emotions
A taste for effort
The spirit of sharing and mutual aid
Developing motor skills
The judo section at International School 33 has been developed with the support of Catherine Arnaud, a great French judo champion.
After an exemplary sporting career, she put away her «French team» uniform in the spring of 1994 to become regional technical advisor for the Aquitaine region.
Catherine Arnaud has chosen to share her passion with children, particularly in schools. She is involved in spotting young talent, promoting judo to the very young and helping to train judo teachers in her region.
In 2007, she became 7th DAN, The highest female rank in the Aquitaine league. Above and beyond her achievements, she stands out for her sense of humour, her human qualities and her big heart.
Today, she works on an ad hoc basis at the school. The weekly classes are taught by a 4th DAN teacher who is trained and experienced in working with children.
The MUN at IS33: training global citizens
Model United Nations (MUN) is an educational programme that allows students to simulate the workings of the United Nations.
Participants take on the role of delegates representing different member countries and debate current international issues in English: climate change, human rights, etc.
Many events punctuate the lives of students at International School 33 and enrich their school experience.
Students take part in educational and cultural trips that broaden their horizons and increase their openness to the world.
The school celebrates cultural diversity through festive events that allow students to discover and appreciate different traditions from around the world.
Pupils develop their creativity and self-confidence through regular artistic performances in front of an audience.
The school organises friendly events that strengthen links between families, pupils and the teaching staff.
These events reinforce the sense of belonging, open students up to the world and create strong shared memories at the heart of school life.
All the information you need to make everyday life easier for families at International School 33.
For lunch, there are two options available to families:
🌞 Open-air lunch : When the weather is fine, students can enjoy lunch in the school's large courtyard, in a pleasant and friendly setting.
Class times are organised by level (kindergarten, primary, middle school, high school) to respect the needs and rhythms of each age group.
| Level | Timetable |
|---|---|
| Kindergarten | 8.30am - 4pm |
| Primary | 8.30am - 4pm |
| Middle school | 8.30am - 4.30pm |
| High School | 8.30am - 5pm |
At the beginning of the year, families receive a full summary of the timetable and organisation of the day.
To make life easier for families, after-school care is available before and after school.
| Service | Timetable |
|---|---|
| Morning reception | From 8.00 am |
| Evening garderie | Until 6.30pm |
These times are supervised by the school team and enable the children to benefit from a safe environment, quiet time, games and exchanges with their classmates.
Homework help can be offered after class, depending on the level. It enables pupils to :
Personalised support to encourage independence and academic success for each student.
International School 33 follows the official French Education calendar for the Zone A.
Holiday periods include :
Specific dates are communicated to families at the beginning of the school year, along with key dates to remember for school events.
In addition to lessons, the school can offer specific activities on certain Wednesdays and during certain school holiday periods.
Wednesday English Club The English Club is part of this dynamic, offering English immersion for children aged 3 to 11 every Wednesday (excluding school holidays).
Other activities or courses may be organised according to the annual schedule, and families will be informed of these as they arise.
