WHERE INNOVATION MEETS EDUCATION
At the International School of Tallinn (IST), we do more than teach—we shape globally-minded, tech-savvy changemakers. We are Estonia’s most international and fastest-growing International Baccalaureate (IB) school, located in Ülemiste City—Estonia’s innovation hub. We nurture young minds through future-focused learning, cutting-edge technology, and a community that reflects the world.
THE IST STORY: FROM NEWCOMER TO TRAILBLAZER
Founded in 2017 by Mainor AS, IST entered Tallinn’s international school landscape as a challenger. In under a decade, it became Estonia’s largest IB school with 315 students representing over 60 nationalities.
From the outset, our mission has been to embed innovation into every aspect of education—from classrooms to policies. Supported by the vision and infrastructure of Ülemiste City, we’ve grown from a startup mindset to a well-established institution with advanced facilities, outstanding services, and a truly global culture.
WHAT INNOVATION MEANS TO US
For IST, innovation is about anticipating tomorrow and preparing students today. It’s embedding entrepreneurship, STEM, and data science into everyday learning. It’s piloting smart AI tools like Toddle, hosting EdTech hackathons, and partnering with organizations from Tokyo to New York.
WHAT MAKES IST A TRUE INNOVATOR
- Reimagined Education: Full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP) supported by AI-driven assessment and STEM integration.
- Digital Learning Environment: From Finnish Code School camps to VR science labs and future IoT integration.
- Smart Operations: Data-driven decisions, agile marketing, and business-intelligent management.
- Global Reach: Students attend MUN conferences globally, build electric vehicles, and join Erasmus+ AI projects.
THE TIPPING POINT: GROWTH TO EXCELLENCE
The shift came with our 2023–2028 strategy—moving from expansion to excellence. We elevated admission criteria, digitized workflows, implemented quality metrics, and focused on wellbeing. This strategic realignment boosted internal innovation and global visibility, as evidenced by international recognition through NEASC accreditation — awarded by the U.S. quality agency renowned for its high standards in education.
WHAT’S NEXT? THE FUTURE WE’RE BUILDING
We’re just getting started. Upcoming projects include:
- A second campus building with high-tech labs and creative spaces.
- Exploration of a fully online IB Diploma Programme.
- Deeper AI and big data use in learning and administration.
- Expanded alumni and international collaboration networks.
- Stronger ties with Estonia’s innovation ecosystem—through events like Future Forum and student entrepreneurship.
CONTRIBUTING TO ESTONIA’S INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM
IST is more than a school—it’s a node in Estonia’s innovation landscape. Located in Ülemiste City, we’re connected to a network of tech firms, science labs, and e-residency institutions. Our partnerships with academic bodies and industry leaders position us as a bridge between Estonia’s digital society and global education standards.
We host hackathons, business fairs, and forums that bring students together with professionals, policymakers, and pioneers. Our students don’t just learn about innovation—they live it, build it, and lead it.
FINAL MESSAGE: ESTONIA’S FUTURE BEGINS HERE
At IST, we’re not waiting for the future—we’re building it. We invite families, educators, innovators, and policymakers to join us in shaping tomorrow’s global leaders. Whether through AI-powered classrooms, global partnerships, or tech-first thinking, IST remains a beacon of innovation, excellence, and purpose.
