Wellbeing

Student welfare encompasses the overall well-being of students, and at the International School of Hellerup, we prioritise creating a healthy and safe learning environment. We strive to ensure that children feel secure and are listened to, taken seriously, and responded to appropriately. We want our students to know that there are trusted adults in the school whom they can approach if they are worried or facing difficulties.

All adults working in or on behalf of the school have a fundamental responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of our students. As part of this commitment, it is important for us to remain vigilant and be alert to possible cases of abuse. If any concerns arise, it is crucial to report and record them promptly. We have a dedicated child/student protection team with specific safeguarding responsibilities, which meets every two weeks or as required, to discuss and address any safety concerns that may arise.

School-Home Partnership

The School-Home Partnership is a collaborative effort between parents, students, and teachers to establish effective communication between the school and home. We strongly encourage all parents and students to familiarise themselves with the information provided in the ISH family guide, which can be accessed from this page. It is essential that families adhere to the procedures and policies outlined in the guide.

During the enrollment process, families are requested to submit a school-home partnership agreement for each child, acknowledging their commitment to reading and understanding the information provided in the family guide. This agreement serves as a confirmation of their intention to actively participate in the School-Home Partnership.

Student Support

Student Support Services (SSS) consists of school counseling, learning support, EAL (English as an additional language), occupational therapy, speech & language therapy, and the school health service.

At ISH we realise that in addition to academic achievement, the physical and psychological development of students is crucial to a positive and enriching school experience. The purpose of the Student Support Services is to nurture physical and psychological development and equip the students with skills they need to fully integrate into the school community, access the curriculum, and lead healthy and happy lives.

Specialist Support Referrals

We maintain a list of external specialist support (in English and/or Danish) to refer families and students with specific needs. These include a speech and language therapist, an occupational therapist, learning support teachers and a psychologist. 

ISH’s Philosophy on Child Protection

Children at ISH have the right to thrive and be free from abuse. It is the responsibility of the school community to protect children’s rights and work together to promote healthy growth, through care, awareness, education and dialog. They have the right to be heard and involved when appropriate. 

Safeguarding Roles and Responsibilities of School Staff

All adults working in or on behalf of the school have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. This includes a responsibility to be alert to possible abuse and to report/record all concerns to the child/student protection team with safeguarding responsibilities. The names of these key members are listed at the end of this section. Staff induction will include state-mandated regulations, our school vision, aspirations and expectations of all staff and what is considered acceptable and what not. They will also receive safeguarding training so they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to keep children safe. ISH will promote the principle that safeguarding is “everyone’s responsibility”.

Responsibilities according to the Danish Law

Anyone who becomes aware of a child that is exposed to neglect or degrading treatment is required by law to notify the municipality. The same applies if the child lives under conditions that may endanger his or her health or development.

  • The duty of notification is a personal duty that applies to both professionals and ordinary citizens when they become aware of or have reason to assume, that a child or young person needs special support.
  • Educators have a special duty of notification that precedes confidentiality. Educators who are in close contact with children and young people are particularly obliged to notify the municipality of a possible concern for a child or a young person.

For further information on child protection at ISH, contact a member of the child/student protection team.

Child/Student Protection Team

Joanna Christoffersen

Joanna Christoffersen

Primary School Principal, IB Coordinator, Primary Years Programme
Jonathan D'Amico

Jonathan D'Amico

Head of Student Support Services (Primary and Middle School)
Chiara Giani

Chiara Giani

Head of Student Life
Martine Grandjean

Martine Grandjean

Office Manager
Maria Mittermayr

Maria Mittermayr

Primary School Counsellor
Stine Olsen

Stine Olsen

School Counsellor, Learning Support Teacher
Evis Qeska

Evis Qeska

High School Principal
Eugene Tsakos

Eugene Tsakos

Psychology Teacher, High School Inclusion Coordinator
Abenaa Uttenthal

Abenaa Uttenthal

Middle School Principal, IB Coordinator, Middle Years Programme