Secondary Newsletter 26/06/2026
To our valued parents and ISBe community members,
As I write what will be my final newsletter article, I find myself reflecting on what has been an incredible three-year journey at ISBe. It is difficult to put into words how much this community has meant to my family and me.
At the end of this academic year, my two boys and I will be returning home to Jordan, where I have accepted the position of Head of Middle School and Assistant to the Dean of Faculty at King’s Academy, a prestigious boarding school founded under the patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah II. While we are excited to begin this new chapter, leaving ISBe is certainly bittersweet.
Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for the kindness, trust, and support shown to us by this wonderful community. My children and I have felt truly at home here, and the friendships we have built with students, parents, and colleagues are ones we will always treasure. Thank you for welcoming us so warmly from the very beginning and for making Belgium feel like home.
Professionally, it has been a privilege to lead the Secondary School alongside an exceptional team of teachers and support staff. Together, we have celebrated many achievements, but I am particularly proud of the academic progress our students have made. Last year, our IBDP students achieved an outstanding average of 36 points, significantly above the world average of 30.58. Improving academic outcomes while ensuring that every student feels supported and challenged has always been my greatest priority. As this year’s graduates await their results, I wish them every success. I am confident they have been exceptionally well prepared and that future cohorts will continue to achieve excellent results because they are fortunate to be taught by such dedicated, knowledgeable, and caring teachers.
One of the highlights of this term was hosting our Model United Nations (MUN) conference. It was wonderful to see our students demonstrate confidence, diplomacy, and leadership while welcoming delegates from other schools. We received outstanding feedback from the visiting schools, who praised both the organisation of the event and the professionalism, hospitality, and enthusiasm of our students. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to every member of the Student Council, with special recognition to Tulip and Nivaan, whose outstanding leadership and commitment played a key role in making the conference such a success.
Another memorable experience was our Senior Trip to Rotterdam, where students had the opportunity to strengthen friendships, develop greater independence, and create lasting memories together. These experiences remind us that education extends well beyond the classroom and that some of the most valuable lessons are learned through shared experiences.
As we prepare for the next academic year, I would also like to wish Mr Matt every success in his next endeavour. He has been an outstanding teacher and a valued member of the Secondary team, and his support, professionalism, and commitment to our students have been greatly appreciated. At the same time, I would like to reassure parents that we are in the final stages of appointing highly qualified teachers for Mathematics and IBDP Global Politics to ensure a smooth transition and continued excellence in teaching and learning next year.
Although this is my final newsletter article, I will remain at ISBe until the end of July to ensure a smooth handover. Should any parent wish to meet with me before my departure to discuss their child or any aspect of the Secondary School, please do not hesitate to contact me by email. I would be delighted to arrange a meeting and support you in any way I can.
If your travels ever bring you to Jordan, please do not hesitate to get in touch. My family and I would be delighted to welcome you and show you the warmth and hospitality that Jordan is known for.
As I say farewell, I do so with immense pride in everything we have achieved together and with deep appreciation for everyone who has been part of this journey. ISBe is a very special place, and it will always hold a special place in my heart.
This is not goodbye. Places become special because of the people within them, and ISBe has become much more than a school to my family; it has become family. You never truly say goodbye to people who have become part of your life; instead, you carry them with you wherever you go.
Thank you for three unforgettable years. I wish every student, every family, and every colleague continued success, happiness, and many memorable achievements in the years ahead. ISBe will always have a place in our hearts.
Warm regards,
Tala Issa
Head of Secondary
secondaryhead@isbedu.be
+32 (0)3 271 09 43