Our Story
Every story has a beginning — ours starts in Kyiv.
Since 1995, Pechersk School International has been a place of learning, resilience, and global citizenship. Discover the journey that shaped who we are — and where we’re headed next.
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On the video: Special address at the beginning of the 30th School year from Trae Holland, Director.
Who we are
For three decades, PSI has welcomed families from around the world, providing a caring, values-driven environment where students aged 3 to 18 can grow, thrive, and prepare for lives of purpose.
From its earliest days, PSI has stood for courage, community, and international mindedness. Through periods of peace and times of crisis, we have remained committed to high-quality education, service, and resilience.
Pechersk School International's Timeline
Milestones that shaped who we are...
1995
Pechersk School International is founded
A group of internationally minded parents from the diplomatic and business community come together to create a school that offers a truly global education for their children — and Pechersk School International is born.
On the image: First Board of Governors, PSI founders.
1997
Our first logo: PSI trident
PSI’s first graduate, Roman, designs a logo that will become the PSI trident — a powerful symbol combining a boat, a candle, and a path forward. It still anchors our identity today.
On the image: First PSI's logo, created in 1997.
1998
IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Authorisation
PSI becomes authorised to offer the Middle Years Programme, providing students aged 11–16 with a concept-driven, inquiry-based education.
On the image: Certificate of authorisation, IB MYP Programme.
1999
IB Diploma Programme (DP) Authorisation
The school is officially authorised to deliver the IB Diploma Programme — a globally recognised pathway to university and life beyond.
On the image: Certificate of authorisation, IB DP Programme.
2000
IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) Authorisation, PSI Becomes an IB World School.
PSI earns authorisation to offer the Primary Years Programme. We become the first — and still the only — school in Ukraine to offer IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP) to students aged 3 to 18.
On the image: Certificate of authorisation, IB PYP Programme.
2001
The Panther is Born
Our school mascot, the PSI Panther, makes its first appearance in the yearbook — sparking a long-lasting tradition of school spirit, pride, and playful competition.
On the image: First cover of the Yearbook with Pancho, PSI's mascot, panther.
2002
Accredited by NEASC
PSI receives its first international accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) — an endorsement we have maintained ever since.
On the image: NEASC logo.
2003
Moving to Our Permanent Campus
We relocate to our current home near Holosiivskyi Park — a green, peaceful space where our community continues to grow.
On the image: Graduation on the new campus.
2004
First Building Project
A third floor is added to the Secondary School building — part of our first major construction project to expand learning spaces.
On the image: Construction of the third floor in the building C.
2017
Major Campus Expansion
In 2017, PSI completed the second major phase of campus development, marking a significant investment in learning spaces and student wellbeing.
On the image: PSI Board members at the opening of the Building A.
2018
Stadium Collaboration
In partnership with the neighbouring lyceum, PSI opens a shared track and field stadium, enhancing facilities for both communities.
On the image: Aerieal view of the brand new field stadium.
2020
Distance Learning During COVID-19
In response to the pandemic, PSI quickly launches a full online learning programme, supporting all students from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Video: PSI's launching a new school year during COVID-19 pandemic.
2022
Full-Scale Invasion and Adaptation
When the war escalates in February 2022, Pechersk School International is forced to close its Kyiv campus. By August, we open a temporary Warsaw campus with support from the American School of Warsaw (ASW) and launch online learning with Avenues Online for students in Ukraine.
On the image: Opening of the PSI's satelite campus in Warsaw.
2023
Returning Home to Kyiv
PSI proudly reopens its Kyiv campus — reaffirming our commitment to Ukraine, our families, and the future of international education in the country.
Video: First day of the school, PSI has reopened it's campus in Kyiv.
2025
PSI Turns 30
We celebrate 30 years. In the face of extraordinary challenges, PSI stands stronger than ever — a living story of courage, care, and community.
On the image: Special first day of the 30th school year.
Future of PSI
As Ukraine navigates war with extraordinary determination, the need for an education that connects global perspectives with national identity has never been more urgent. Why does this matter?
Because investing in education today is an investment in a stronger, more resilient Ukraine tomorrow.
By championing international education, we are developing a generation of compassionate leaders and agents of positive change, equipped to create a just, peaceful, and sustainable world.
Our mission and vision
Pechersk School International is more than just a school, it is a place where we belong.
We create a learning environment that is joyful and challenging, where each student receives the support they need in a diverse and welcoming community.
We strive to be a school where every voice is heard, every passion is encouraged, and where we connect with the wider world, both locally and globally.
On the photo: First students of Pechersk School International, in 1995.