MAY 2026
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear ISW Families,
April has been a month full of movement — both literally and figuratively — and as we settle into the rhythm of Term 4, there is so much to share. From international conferences to exciting events on the horizon, ISW continues to grow, evolve, and look forward with purpose. Thank you, as always, for being the community that makes this school worth leading.
ECIS Leadership Conference: The Future of Education
This month I had the privilege of attending the ECIS (European Council of International Schools) Leadership Conference, and I returned genuinely energised by what I heard and experienced. The theme running through so many conversations was the future of education — what it looks like, what it demands of schools, and how we prepare our students for a world that is changing faster than ever before.
I will be honest: the scale of change ahead can feel daunting. For educators, for parents, and yes, even for school leaders. But what the conference reinforced for me is that the future of education is not something to fear — it is something to shape. The schools that will thrive are those that embrace innovation with intention, that keep the student at the centre, and that build real partnerships with their communities.
I left feeling not just informed, but genuinely excited. ISW is well placed to be part of this next chapter, and I look forward to taking this school — together with all of you — to the next stage of what education can and should be. There will be more to share on this in the weeks ahead.
Security Camera Update: Levels 1 & 2
I want to keep our community informed about a recent addition to our school building. We have now installed security cameras on Levels 1 and 2 of the building. This decision was not taken lightly, and I want to be transparent with you about the reasons behind it.
The cameras have been installed to address two specific concerns: the destruction of washroom areas on these levels, and to deter potential vaping in those spaces. The safety and wellbeing of every student and staff member at ISW is our highest priority, and these measures are a direct response to protecting that.
I want to reassure families that all camera footage is stored on-site only — it is not held externally or shared with any third party. Access to footage is restricted solely to myself and our Facilities Manager, Danny. We will also be putting up clear signage throughout the relevant areas indicating the presence of cameras and their purpose, in line with best practice and transparency.
We appreciate your understanding and support of these measures, which are there to keep our school community safe.
Stay Connected
As always, the best place to stay up to date between newsletters is our International School Westpfalz Facebook page. Photos, reminders, event updates, and everyday moments from school life — it is all there. If you are not yet following us, we warmly invite you to join our online community.
Term 4 is in full swing, and the best is very much still to come. Thank you for your continued partnership, your trust, and the energy you bring to our school community each and every day.
Ms. Jodi
ARTS & CULTURE EXHIBITION
Mark your calendars — our Art and Cultural Exhibition is fast approaching, and we could not be more excited to share what our students have been creating. This is always one of the most special evenings of the school year, and this year promises to be something truly memorable.
Please extend the invitation to your family, friends and community.
DRESS CODE
Cocktail attire — come dressed for a special evening!
Start thinking about that special cocktail outfit now! Come along and celebrate the creativity, talent, and cultural richness of our ISW community over a wonderful evening of WEAVING art, performance, and connection.
More details on the full programme will be shared very soon — watch this space, and keep an eye on the International School Westpfalz Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as Toddle and email for all updates.
We hope to see every family there.
VOLUNTEERS (PARENTS, FAMILY AND FRIENDS) needed for CULTURE/ COUNTRY BOOTHS
UPCOMING EVENTS
- MAY 5 | PRIMARY ASSEMBLY LED BY Y5 | 2:45pm
- MAY 11 | SECONDARY ASSEMBLY | 9:00am
- MAY 12 | FIELD TRIP for Y3 + Y4 + Y5 | KURPFALZ PARK
- MAY 13 | FIELD TRIP for Y1 + Y2 | TO NEUNKIRCHEN ZOO
- MAY 19 | PRIMARY ASSEMBLY LED BY Y4 | 2:45pm
- MAY 21 | P&F MEETING | 8:30am in the Chapel - Interested parents are welcomed to join
- MAY 25 | SCHOOL CAMP for Y5-8 | MORZINE, FRANCE
- MAY 27 | FIELD TRIP for EY + RECEPTION
- JUN 3 | ARTS & CULTURE EXHIBITION | 5.30pm - 7.30pm
PRIMARY NEWS
FIELD TRIPS
We have a few field trips coming up in May, and the students are very excited about them. These experiences are a valuable part of school life, giving children the opportunity to learn beyond the classroom, build confidence, and develop social skills. Field trips also help bring learning to life, spark curiosity, and create lasting memories that support deeper understanding.
Here are the upcoming trips:
- Years 3–5: Kurpfalz Park
- Years 1–2: Neunkircher Zoo
- Early Years and Reception: TBC
COLLABORATIVE CONFERENCE
Our collaborative conferences were a great success. Thank you to all parents and carers who attended—what a wonderful way to celebrate your child’s learning. We hope you found the discussions valuable, and we look forward to working together on the goals set for the remainder of the year.
CLASS ASSEMBLIES
We still have several class assemblies taking place this term, and all parents are warmly invited to attend. These assemblies provide a wonderful opportunity for children to develop their speaking, listening, and presentation skills, as well as to share their learning with you.
Please see the schedule for this month:
- Year 5: May 5th Students will be sharing their learnings about Nature & Eco System
- Year 4: May 19th Students will be sharing their learnings about Sound Waves
SECONDARY NEWS
April has been a busy and exciting month across Secondary, with students continuing to engage in meaningful learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom.
IN-HOUSE EXCURSION AT ISW MAKER SPACE
One highlight was the recent Maker Space Incursion, where students had the opportunity to explore hands-on design challenges, creative problem-solving and collaborative learning. It was fantastic to see students experimenting, building and thinking innovatively while applying skills from across the curriculum in practical ways. Experiences like these help bring learning to life and encourage curiosity, resilience and creativity.
Looking ahead, the coming weeks will be a significant period for many of our students as the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level examination season continues. We are proud of the preparation, commitment and maturity students have shown throughout this process, and we encourage them to continue maintaining healthy routines, balanced study habits and positive wellbeing strategies during this busy time.
We are also looking forward to our upcoming Work Experience Week for Years 9 and 10. This is always a valuable opportunity for students to gain insight into the world of work, explore potential career interests and develop confidence, communication and independence. We thank the families and community members who continue to support students through these opportunities and help strengthen the connection between school learning and future pathways.
As always, thank you for your continued support of our Secondary students and staff.
COMMUNITY NEWS
A SHORT FILM BY ISW STUDENTS
We are thrilled to announce a special addition to this year’s Arts & Culture Exhibition.
Our Year 8 student, Reese Tilman, has spent the last several months bringing a creative vision to life, serving as the screenwriter, producer, and director of a short film. While Reese spearheaded the project with the goal of becoming a professional director, the production became a true school-wide collaboration, featuring a cast and crew of her classmates and students across various year groups.
We invite you to join us for the official premiere in the Library (upstairs) during the exhibition. Witnessing our students take such professional initiative is a highlight of the term, and we hope you’ll take a moment to support Reese and her team as they showcase their hard work on the big screen.
PARENT AND FRIENDS (P&F) NEWS
The P&F is the heartbeat of our parent community. We’re here to foster a fun, inclusive environment where families can connect and collaborate.
Here are our recent highlights:
• Athletics Carnival (June 18):
Planning is officially underway! Interested in volunteering? Join our Committee WhatsApp group today to help us make the day a success.
• Stay in the Loop via Toddle
We’ve launched a brand-new P&F Toddle Channel! This is your go-to spot for event updates and volunteer opportunities. To join, simply head to your Toddle messages and look under the "Public Channels" tab.
• ISW Mugs Now Available:
Show your school spirit! Our custom ISW mugs are officially for sale at the Front Office. They are €10 for one, or €15 for two. Please remember to bring exact change.
If you’d like to get involved, please join us at our next meeting or click the link below to join the P&F WhatsApp Community.
Next P&F Meeting
May 21st at 8:30 am
ISW Chapel
Join us:
LIFE AT ISW
MEET THE TEACHER: MS. KASIA
Meet our Art teacher, Ms. Kasia!
Tell us a little bit about yourself
I am an artist and have been for as long as I can remember. I am deeply inspired by landscapes filled with the contrast of light and subtlety. I have been an art educator for a quarter of a century, and not a day goes by where I don’t love sharing my passion and creative outlet with my students. To me, art education is about more than just painting; it is at the core of who we are. Having the opportunity to help my students explore and nurture their boundless creativity is a true treasure.
What first sparked your love for Art, and how do you try to pass that same spark on to your students at ISW?
I loved art more than anything else as a child. I see the potential creativity has for all students, regardless of their gender, background, or age. I believe what we do in the classroom impacts who they will become and, in some way, makes the world a better place.
If a student asks, 'When will I ever use this in real life?', what is your favorite example or project you share with them to prove its value?
I jokingly tell them it's so they can understand street art better! In reality, art appreciation makes you a more sensitive and caring member of society.
What is one specific concept or topic in your subject that students usually find challenging at first, but absolutely love once they 'get' it?
Everyone is different, but in a nutshell, it’s getting over the fear of starting. Once that boundary is broken, an ocean of possibilities opens up. Seeing that shift gives me the most satisfying feeling as a teacher.
Describe what a typical 'high-energy' day looks like in your classroom. What are the students doing, creating, or discussing?
Imagine students fully engaged in their own projects, creating art in their favorite media. With music playing in the background, the whole room becomes a fusion of creativity and sublime energy.
What is a 'fun fact' or a surprising part of your subject that most people don’t know about?
Most people think I am Australian—and I am, as I hold dual citizenship—but I was actually born in Poland. Funnily enough, I feel most at home in Finland!
MEET THE TEACHER: MR. Jo
Meet our Music teacher, Mr. Jo!
Tell us a little bit about yourself
I am from New Zealand, my wife and two daughters moved to Germany in 2025. I have spent the last 20+ years writing, recording and touring music around the world.
What first sparked your love for Music, and how do you try to pass that same spark on to your students at ISW?
Music has always been a consistent for me in life, whether it’s listening to it or making it. That feeling of creating something from nothing is like nothing else for me, and that is one of the biggest things I try to pass on.
If a student asks, 'When will I ever use this in real life?', what is your favorite example or project you share with them to prove its value?
Music is about problem solving and overcoming fears of ‘I can’t do this' or 'it’s too hard’ and in ‘real life’ that feeling never goes away.
What is one specific concept or topic in your subject that students usually find challenging at first, but absolutely love once they 'get' it?
Working together/playing as one, it’s so much harder than it looks but when it clicks, it’s always so cool to watch.
Describe what a typical 'high-energy' day looks like in your classroom. What are the students doing, creating, or discussing?
Lot’s of singing, analysing music, playing beat games, and being introduced to new instruments.
What is a 'fun fact' or a surprising part of your subject that most people don’t know about?
When we make music with others or experience a concert in a group, for example, another wondrous bodily substance comes into play. Oxytocin – the so-called bonding hormone – is said to promote trust and affection between people. As a result, you automatically feel comfortable and secure in a community.
MEET THE TEACHER: MS. MAIA
Meet our Performing Arts/ Drama teacher, Ms. Maia!
Tell us a little bit about yourself
My main identifying factor these days is that I am a Mum to two girls who are currently attending ISW in Early Years and Year Two. Our family come all the way from New Zealand and are approaching our 1 year anniversary in Germany. I have worked as a dancer, actor, singer, Early Childhood Educator, Middle School Performing Arts teacher, and Secondary Drama teacher. Outside of all of this I have a deep passion for health and nutrition, yoga, pilates, reading, hiking, travel, food, and coffee!
What first sparked your love for Performing Arts, and how do you try to pass that same spark on to your students at ISW?
I grew up as a dancer - every evening was spent at my dance studio studying Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Tap, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre...I truly lived and breathed it for the first 18 years of my life. I enjoyed the discipline, the repetition, the mastering of skills, the community, but mostly I loved getting lost in the moment on the stage. Dancing led me to taking part in Musical Theatre productions where my love for performance grew even deeper, so when I ruptured my knee at 18 and could no longer dance, I fell deep into the very vast world of theatre. The stories that can and are told through theatre and dance have such a profound ability to inspire, to question, to share perspectives...as a curriculum subject, Drama is often seen as a practical alternative to academically heavy subjects, but in my (probably biased) opinion, Drama teaches in such a visceral way that the stories and lessons learned are deeply internalised, shaping not just what students know, but how they understand people, emotion, and the world around them.
If a student asks, 'When will I ever use this in real life?', what is your favorite example or project you share with them to prove its value?
Aside from the obvious confidence and presentation skills, Drama and Performing Arts help students to interpret the world around them and understand different perspectives. A lot of what we do in the classroom, especially within Primary, is about learning to collaborate, to offer and accept ideas, to respect everyone's strengths, to take risks, to create, to get things wrong or fail - these are fundamental life skills, especially in a world of ever-increasing AI presence. Once we reach Secondary Drama, we really reach a place of psychological analysis - tapping into emotions, understanding the motives and objectives of different characters. And for those who have caught the theatre bug, it is a place to dissect, express, and master a very intricate craft that can lead to a multitude of fulfilling career paths.
What is one specific concept or topic in your subject that students usually find challenging at first, but absolutely love once they 'get' it?
One of the most exciting things to see in my classes is watching a student learn to trust their peers and give the hard thing a go. Performing in front of classmates is the hardest audience anyone will ever be confronted with – but to build an environment where everyone feels safe to be themselves and give things a go always feels like a real accomplishment – for me and for the students. I have seen some of the quietest or reluctant students step out of their comfort zone and really blow me away – and watching the feeling of elation arise for that student often feels like a real breakthrough moment. For older students, this can be tapping into a certain emotion that they find difficult, or fully immersing themselves in a character during performance and finally feeling the rush and excitement of the craft.
Describe what a typical 'high-energy' day looks like in your classroom. What are the students doing, creating, or discussing?
Performing Arts can look very different from one class to the next. In lower primary we focus on personal expression – lots of dancing, moving, using our voices in funny ways, starting to create and tell our own stories. Upper primary focus mostly on collaboration and understanding Dance & Drama vocabulary - teacher-led choreography, re-telling of familiar stories in small groups. Middle School students are beginning to develop a fundamental understanding of techniques, conventions, and elements of drama as well as starting to understand different theatre forms. Secondary drama deep dives into how to devise theatre, how to read, analyse and perform published plays, and there is a large component about understanding the effect and purpose of design elements and how to deliver themes and stories most effectively to an audience.
What is a 'fun fact' or a surprising part of your subject that most people don’t know about?
Drama is for everyone – no matter who you are, you have stories to tell and your own personal experiences to offer the subject. I think my subject is very special in this way – if you have the work ethic, discipline, and are willing to give it all you’ve got, anyone can exceed in Drama.