Opened in 1978, the Vienna International School stands as a testament to Vienna’s commitment to global collaboration. The Vienna International School was built to serve the children of United Nations employees and diplomats. The UN located one of its offices in Vienna. The school remains affiliated with the UN.
Approximately 50% of the students at Vienna International School are children of UN employees. These students receive education grants. The remaining students are mainly children of embassy and company staff. Today, the school has an enrollment of 1400 students. These students range from pre-primary to twelfth grade.
The story of the Vienna International School began before its official opening. In 1955, the International Community School was established. It served as the first English language medium school in Vienna. This school was initially the British Army School. It catered to the children of British occupying forces. After the Austrian State Treaty in 1955, the occupying forces left. The school transformed into the International Community School. It operated under the patronage of the British, American, and Indian Missions.
By 1959, the International Community School had 300 children. These children represented 25 nationalities. A majority of the children were American or Canadian. The British and Indian Embassies started a separate British style school in 1959. This was called the English School. The International Community School then became the American International School.
The English School played a crucial role in the development of the Vienna International School. In 1977, Maurice Pezet was invited by the Austrian government. He developed a Vienna International School on the model of the Geneva and New York United Nations Schools. This was in preparation for the expansion of the United Nations to Vienna.
The Vienna International School officially opened on September 11, 1978. It welcomed pupils of 60 nationalities. Primary and secondary students were located on Grinzinger Straße. The Kindergarten was on Heiligenstädter Strasse. In 1984, the school moved to its current campus. The campus was entirely funded by the Austrian government. Bruno Kreisky initiated the idea of a new school. Maurice Pezet managed the project. He became the first director of the Vienna International School.
Today, the Vienna International School boasts impressive facilities. These include a 220-seat theater and primary and secondary libraries. There are also music rooms, art studios, and science laboratories. The school also provides extensive sports facilities.
The Vienna International School offers all three programs of the International Baccalaureate. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools. It is also an Eco-School. The Vienna International School is committed to community service. Students actively participate in local and global initiatives. The school supports charities like Maher and Project Centipede. It aims to develop community awareness and make effective contributions to society.
The Vienna International School has a rich history. It began as a small school for children of occupying forces. It has evolved into a leading international school. It welcomes students from all over the world. It promotes international education and global citizenship.