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Curriculum Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, British Curriculum
Taught languages English, Swahili, French
Typical class size 20
Strengths MSA-CESS Accredited, Cambridge Examination Centre, Small School Community
Clubs Model United Nations, Young Scientists, Drama and Arts
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, High School
Introduction
The International School of Zanzibar (ISZ) is a non-profit international school serving students aged 2 to 18 on the island of Zanzibar, Tanzania. Founded in 1988, ISZ is accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA-CESS) and is a certified Cambridge Examination Centre. The school offers a Reggio Emilia-inspired early years programme, the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC), and Cambridge IGCSE and A Level qualifications.
International School of Zanzibar has 200 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.
Location
Zanzibar Island, Tanzania. The school is situated in a unique island setting offering a distinctive lifestyle for families.
Stages
Playgroup (age 2-3), Nursery to Reception (age 3-5), Year 1 (age 5-6), Years 2-6 (Primary, age 6-11), Years 7-9 (Lower Secondary, age 12-14), Years 10-11 (IGCSE, age 14-16), Years 12-13 (A Levels, age 16-18).
Type
Private co-educational non-profit international day school.
Pupil Nationality Mix
A diverse international student body with multiple nationalities represented.
Additional learning support
ISZ provides a structured three-tier learning support system: monitoring through differentiation, individualised accommodations via IEPs, and curriculum modifications for students with significant needs. A dedicated Student Services Team meets regularly to track progress.
Country affiliation
Tanzania. Member of AISA (Association of International Schools in Africa).
Religious affiliation
Non-denominational.
School day structure
School hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. After-school activities are available.
Bus service
Not detailed on the website. Contact the school for transport arrangements.
Fees
Annual tuition at International School of Zanzibar ranges from TZS 2,925 to TZS 16,410 for 2026/27.
Annual tuition ranges from $2,925 USD (Playgroup) to $16,410 USD (Years 12-13). A $500 non-refundable registration fee applies. An annual Capital Levy of $600 (private) or $1,500 (corporate) is also charged. Family discounts available for three or more children.
Academics
International School of Zanzibar teaches Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, British Curriculum for students aged 2 to 18.
Curriculum
ISZ delivers a Reggio Emilia-inspired Early Years programme, the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for Years 2-6, the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) for Years 7-9, Cambridge IGCSE for Years 10-11, and Cambridge AS/A Levels for Years 12-13. Core subjects include English, mathematics, science, history, geography, IT, Swahili, French, music, PE, and swimming.
Student Teacher Ratio
Approximately 1:1, reflecting the school's small, personalised learning environment.
Exam Results
Cambridge IGCSE and A Level results are published on the school website. The school is a National English Honor Society (NEHS) member, reflecting strong English academic outcomes.
Higher Education Progression
Dedicated university counselling is available for secondary students. ISZ partners with Unifrog for application support and EduKwanza for global university exploration. Students complete Cambridge A Levels for international university entry.
Gifted and Talented
Not specifically detailed. The school's small class sizes enable personalised attention for all learners.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The Student Services Team meets regularly to track student progress and develop tailored intervention plans, supporting social and emotional development.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
ISZ provides a structured three-tier support system: monitoring through differentiation, individualised accommodations via IEPs (Individualised Education Plans), and curriculum modifications for students with significant needs.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
ELL support is provided to students lacking academic English proficiency, delivered in class or in small group interventions. Students are assessed during admissions for language support needs.
Mental Wellbeing
The school promotes multicultural coexistence and provides regular student progress tracking through its Student Services Team.
Safeguarding
Not specifically detailed on the website. The school's MSA-CESS accreditation includes safeguarding standards.
Admissions
Admissions
Applications are accepted for Playgroup (age 2) through Year 13 (age 18). A $500 non-refundable registration fee is required. Admissions assessments evaluate English proficiency and learning support needs on a case-by-case basis. Campus visits can be arranged.
Scholarships
A scholarships page is available on the school website. Contact the school for current scholarship opportunities and eligibility criteria.
Waitlist
Not specifically mentioned. Contact admissions@isz.co.tz for availability.
FAQs
What curriculum does ISZ follow?
ISZ offers a Reggio Emilia-inspired Early Years programme, the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC), and Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels.
What age range does ISZ accept?
The school accepts students from age 2 (Playgroup) through to age 18 (Year 13, A Levels).
How much are the tuition fees?
Annual tuition ranges from $2,925 USD (Playgroup) to $16,410 USD (Years 12-13). A $500 registration fee and annual Capital Levy also apply.
Is ISZ accredited?
Yes, ISZ is accredited by MSA-CESS (Middle States Association), is a certified Cambridge Examination Centre, and is a member of AISA.
What languages are taught?
English is the language of instruction. Swahili and French are taught as additional languages.
Are there family discounts?
Yes, for three or more children: 10% off the third child, 15% off the fourth, and 25% off the fifth child and beyond.
What after-school activities are available?
Activities include Model United Nations, Drama, Arts and Crafts, Music, Young Scientists, Chess, Swimming, Girl Up, Student Council, and various sports. Activities rotate each term.
Does ISZ provide learning support?
Yes, ISZ has a three-tier support system including differentiated teaching, Individualised Education Plans, and curriculum modifications, managed by a dedicated Student Services Team.
Is ELL support available?
Yes, English Language Learner support is provided in class or in small group interventions for students who need help with academic English.
Who leads the school?
The Head of School is Mark McCarthy, supported by heads of Early Years, Primary, and Secondary departments, and a Head of Operations.
Does ISZ offer university counselling?
Yes, dedicated university counsellors assist secondary students with applications. The school partners with Unifrog and EduKwanza for application support.
What is the refund policy for mid-year withdrawal?
Fees are pro-rated: up to 2 weeks attendance = 20% charged, up to 6 weeks = 50%, over 6 weeks = 100% of term fees.
