International School of Astana

Our Story International Steppe School of Astana (ISA) is an IB World School founded in 2013 in Astana, Kazakhstan. The school serves a learning community of 1,426 students guided by a team of 180 teachers. Its official mission is to create conditions that nurture healthy, intelligent, creative, and successful individuals with high moral values, who appreciate their own culture, respect other cultures, and are prepared for lifelong learning while contributing to a better world. ISA is authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization and maintains partnerships with the Council of International Schools (CIS), the Kiva Program, UNICEF, UNESCO, and other academic institutions. The school’s digital presence operates under the nis.edu.kz domain, and NIS is listed among its partner organizations. The institution is recognized for its commitment to high-quality learning, global citizenship, and digital citizenship within a positive school climate. Programs & Trainings IB Programme, School-wide International Baccalaureate curriculum built on inquiry-based learning and holistic student development. Kindergarten, Early childhood education providing foundational international learning experiences for young children. Experiential Learning Conference, Annual conference (4th edition held in 2025) convening international experts, educators, and students to advance hands-on, experience-based pedagogy. TEDxInternational School of Astana, Independent TED event platform fostering student and community voices in idea exchange and public speaking. "Tugan Elge Tagzym" Research Program, Annual scientific exploration initiative integrating nature study, field research, and historical inquiry in Kazakhstani contexts. "My Homeland" Project, Place-based environmental and cultural education program, including research expeditions such as the exploration of Lake Taldykol. Social and Mentoring Projects, Cross-grade collaborative program engaging Grade 8 and Grade 11 students in joint social initiatives and peer mentorship. Festival of Hope, Intercultural leadership event promoting dialogue among cultures and developing future-oriented leadership capacities. Pedagogical Council on High-Quality Learning and Teaching, Faculty development forum reviewing instructional standards and innovative teaching practices. Leadership Seminar for Methodological Association Heads, Professional leadership program hosted at ISA for pedagogical leaders and methodological association heads within the national school network. Specialties International Baccalaureate (IB) World School education Experiential and inquiry-based learning Global citizenship and intercultural competence Digital citizenship and responsible technology use Holistic development spanning academic, ethical, creative, and physical growth Place-based education and local environmental research Student leadership, mentorship, and social responsibility Early childhood international education Continuous teacher professional development and pedagogical innovation Community engagement through conferences and cultural festivals Methods & Approach ISA implements an inquiry-based, student-centered pedagogy framed by the IB philosophy, focusing on the transfer of knowledge and skills into new academic and life situations. The school cultivates a positive climate and culture that engages each learner in holistic development. Global citizenship is practiced through the application of knowledge for personal decision-making and actions that improve local and global communities. Digital citizenship is taught as safe, responsible, and effective participation in digital spaces for societal benefit. Experiential methodologies permeate the curriculum, including project-based learning, scientific fieldwork, cross-grade mentoring, and international conferences that bridge classroom study with real-world impact. Who It's For Children and adolescents from early childhood through secondary school seeking an international, IB-aligned education in Kazakhstan. Families who value globally minded instruction, strong moral and cultural foundations, and multilingual learning environments. Students interested in leadership development, scientific research, social impact projects, and intercultural dialogue. Educators and school leaders attending ISA-hosted professional conferences, pedagogical councils, and leadership seminars. The school community serves both local and internationally mobile families residing in Astana. Facilities & Practical Info Campus situated in Astana offering modern facilities that support digital learning and experiential activities. Instruction is delivered primarily in English within an international school framework. The academic calendar follows regular school terms supplemented by special events such as conferences, festivals, and research expeditions. Academic information and progress are accessible to students and parents via the Toddle platform and the MyIB portal. The student body of 1,426 is supported by a faculty of 180 teachers. Location Address: Republic of Kazakhstan, 010000, Astana, Turkestan Street 32/1 Hours: See website for schedule The "+" Authorized IB World School meeting rigorous international accreditation standards Holistic educational model integrating academics, ethics, creativity, and global awareness Vibrant experiential learning ecosystem including TEDx, research programs, and international conferences Strategic partnerships with CIS, UNICEF, UNESCO, and leading educational organizations Dedicated digital infrastructure via Toddle and MyIB for transparent academic collaboration