About the webinar
Hosted by Relocate Global’s Fiona Murchie, this insightful webinar explores how the International School of London (ISL) creates a nurturing environment where students, families, and staff feel a strong sense of belonging. Joining the discussion are Claudine Hakim, Head of Community Engagement, Transitions Care and Student Support; Zack Eckert, Head of Multilingualism; and Timea Virag, School Counsellor.
Together, they share how ISL’s multilingual model and transitions care programme help students thrive academically, emotionally, and socially, preparing them to become confident, compassionate global citizens.
Key themes explored:
A Culture of Care and Connection:
ISL’s welcoming ethos is grounded in intentional practices that build genuine relationships with families. From pre-arrival support to alumni engagement, every stage of the “arrivers, stayers, leavers” cycle is designed to foster belonging and emotional well-being.
Multilingualism as a Core Strength:
With instruction in 24 home languages, ISL ensures every student’s linguistic identity is valued. The school’s language programme, integrated within the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, enables students to maintain their mother tongues while mastering new languages, enhancing literacy, confidence, and cross-cultural understanding.
Well-being and Student Voice:
The counselling team supports students through the emotional challenges of transition, giving them space to share their stories and express feelings of loss or change. This holistic approach helps students develop emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and self-identity.
Innovation in Transition Support:
ISL is an honorary member of the Safe Passage Across Networks (SPAN) organisation, using evidence-based practices to ensure secure attachment and smooth adaptation for globally mobile families. Recent initiatives include the “Life in London” acculturation programme for parents and inclusive English classes that build community and confidence among families.
Global Citizenship and Leadership:
By combining academic rigour with emotional and cultural intelligence, ISL equips students to become empathetic, globally minded leaders, skilled in collaboration, adaptable across cultures, and ready to contribute positively to the world.
Award-Winning Excellence:
ISL’s dedication to nurturing global excellence has been recognised through multiple Relocate Global and Think Global People Awards, including the 2025 Excellence in Education Award. The school’s success is attributed to its reflective, collaborative culture and passion for continuous improvement.
Claudine Hakim, Head of Community Engagement, Student Support & Transitions Care
Claudine Hakim is the Head of Community Engagement and Student Services at the International School of London (ISL) and leads the school’s multi-award-winning ISL Crossroads Transitions Care Programme. She holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Managementfrom UCL’s Institute of Education and a BA in Psychology and Counsellingfrom Richmond International University. Having lived across three continents, Claudine is passionate about fostering inclusive international communities and promoting transitions careand attachment securityin education. She is a member of the ECIS Admissions Committeeand Chair of the Board of Trustees at Safe Passage Across Networks (SPAN).
Zack Ekert, Head of Multilingualism, International School of London (ISL)
Zack leads the Multilingualism programme at ISL London, where he has developed an integrated curriculum across all languages since 2023. He speaks five languages and teaches French and Spanish, with a passion for linguistic diversity and intercultural learning.
Timea Virag, School Counsellor International School of London (ISL)
Timea Virag (MBACP)is the School Counsellor at ISL London with over 20 years of experience in international and multilingual schools across Switzerland, Hungary, and the UK. Now in her seventh year at ISL, she supports students across all age groups, fostering a strong sense of belonging and promoting social, emotional, and academic wellbeing throughout the school.
