International School of Riga Opens New Secondary Campus in the Heart of Riga

RIGA – The International School of Riga (ISR welcomed teachers, supporters, partner organizations and parents to officially celebrate the opening of its Secondary School campus ar Skanstes Street 27, in the center of Riga. In response to the growing demand for international education in central Riga, ISR has moved to a new building that not only provides more space for current students but also opens the door for additional qualified applicants. 

As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, ISR offers globally recognized and highly respected academic programs. Its graduates continue their studies at leading universities around the world. The school is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, globally minded learning environment where students gain the knowledge, skills, and adaptability required to succeed in today’s fast-changing global landscape.

The new Skanstes Campus combines modern technologies with innovative learning solutions, creating a dynamic environment that inspires both academic excellence and creativity.

“Every big dream requires focus and achievable steps along the way. The opening of our new campus is one of those steps – an incredible milestone that we are very proud to celebrate. This campus provides our students with a dynamic learning environment, complete with science labs and spacious classrooms that support project-based learning, inquiry, and discovery. We are creating an environment that supports curiosity, collaboration, and innovation. Most importantly, it offers a safe and inspiring space where students can learn, grow, and thrive together. Our students and teachers can walk into this space and feel a true sense of pride and belonging,” said ISR Director Amanda Romey.

Located in one of Riga’s fastest developing neighborhoods, ISR is the only IB World School situated in the very heart of the city. Its central location provides families with convenient access from across Riga, seamlessly connecting the learning environment with the city’s broader infrastructure.

At the opening ceremony, Latvia’s Minister of Education and Science, Dace Melbārde, emphasized the importance of this milestone: “In today’s global environment, schools must continuously evolve to remain competitive and relevant – integrating digital tools, inquiry-based learning, cross-cultural perspectives, and a curriculum that prepares students for universities and workplaces worldwide. The new ISR secondary campus, centrally located and purposefully designed for 21st-century learning, reflects the school’s commitment to excellence in teaching, innovation, and the development of global citizens. Here, students are prepared not only for exams but also for real-world challenges in innovation, leadership, and international collaboration.”

ISR is the only school in Riga to offer the full IB program. Middle and High School students (Grades 6–12) now study at the new Skanstes Campus, while Preschool and Elementary students (up to Grade 5) continue their education at ISR’s Kalnciema Street 118 Campus in Pārdaugava. With 60% of its teachers coming from abroad, ISR maintains a high teacher-to-student ratio of 1:6, ensuring a supportive and personalized learning environment.

Currently, ISR educates 320 students aged 2 to 18, representing 47 nationalities. Traditionally, international schools have served to ensure educational continuity for the children of diplomats and military personnel, and today approximately 40% of ISR students come from such backgrounds, including embassy families, NATO personnel, and international company employees. The remaining 60% are children from families residing in Latvia.

As global mobility and an interconnected workforce reshape education choices, international schooling is increasingly valued by local families as well. Many parents who have studied abroad recognize the added value of high-quality international education. At the same time, ISR remains committed to Latvian traditions and values – celebrating national and seasonal holidays and fostering a strong sense of cultural identity within a diverse international setting.