Leadership & Team at International School Hilversum
A great place, powered by inspiring people
Engaging 800 eager students every day and encouraging them to be curious. That’s our daily job. We love it, and we know how to do it. Behind our international school stands a fantastic team, with strong values and a big heart for education.
At International School Hilversum, leadership starts with people who care. People who guide, support and challenge students every single day.
A principal who stands for everyone
Principal Cecilia Neethling is committed to our ‘community of belonging’ every day. From South Africa herself, she knows this matters, since we come together from over 35 different countries. Cecilia strives for ISH to be a place where students can land and feel at home.
At ISH, you can be yourself. Ms. Neethling truly stands for that. Our principal brings out the best in everyone. Her door is always open for anyone with questions, worries, or new ideas. Feel free to stop by. She likes that. Strong leadership starts with the principal and flows through the entire school.It creates a place where students feel seen, safe and supported.
Teachers to remember
Good teachers teach. Great teachers inspire. At ISH, we select them not only for their experience, but also for the ‘fire’ they bring to their subject. And their ability to truly connect with students. Encourage them to reach their full potential.
Our teachers are highly qualified and come from diverse backgrounds. They are part of a strong international school team in Hilversum, working together to support every student.
In our classrooms, students learn from qualified international teachers and experienced teaching professionals who bring learning to life. And above all: People. People who stick with you.
Meet our Management Team
Each programme has its own head. PYP, MYP and DP. Together with the principal, they form the daily management of our school.Together, they form a strong school management team and shape how international education is organised, supported and brought to life every day.
She knows the children by heart and makes sure every student feels welcome and happy from day one.
He is also the coach of our ISH football team, boosting team spirit, winning spirit and fun spirit.
A true supporter of our graduates, always ready to help and to boost their confidence when it matters most.
Support staff that makes us stronger
Our school runs smoothly thanks to our support staff. Like our caretakers, who keep an eye out and share a joke with students. And our cleaning team, who turn our historic building into a fresh and welcoming place to learn every single day.
Behind the scenes, our school team keeps everything on track. Our number wizards and real people persons make sure plans add up, questions get answered and things run the way they should. We are truly grateful for their support and hard work. It helps make ISH an even stronger school.
Steady facilities, solid leadership
ISH is part of the Alberdingk Thijm Schools Group, a family of 28 schools in the Gooi region. This gives ISH access to shared facilities and expertise, including student transport, student support and coaching, and ongoing professional development.
Our school is also supported by experienced governance and academic leadership, including board members Bart van den Haak and Saskia Makker - Velthuis, who work closely with the leadership team to help guide the school’s direction and long-term development. Together, they ensure that ISH remains a warm, supportive environment where students can feel at home, grow with confidence, and get ready for the world.
Powered by People Who Care
A strong school starts with strong people. At ISH, experienced leaders, inspiring teachers and dedicated support staff work together to create a safe, engaging and high-quality international learning environment. Students are guided by professionals who truly connect, challenge and support them every day. So your child is guided by a committed and experienced team at International School Hilversum, ready to help them grow, belong and feel at home.
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