Get up to speed with what’s happening at SG’s top international schools with our 2024 school news updates!
The past year saw several remarkable sustainability initiatives and exciting educational developments across various schools, including one international school opening a net-zero energy educational building powered by renewable sources. There is also a new 5-week immersive programme in Australia, a 12th-grader achieving the top score in Singapore at the American Mathematics Olympiads, a school introducing 60 new Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs), and much more. Several schools are also hosting Open House events if you’d like a closer look. Read on for International School news updates in May:
Read more: Guide to the Best International Schools in Singapore
International School News 2024
Tanglin Trust School
News: Tanglin Trust School launches new Highlands Programme
Not-for-profit Tanglin Trust School has offered a British-based education to Singapore’s international community for nearly 100 years. As the school approaches its Centenary in 2025, it will launch the Highlands Programme at its brand-new Tanglin Gippsland campus in Australia. Tailored for Year 9 students, this immersive 5-week programme is crafted to instil three fundamental attributes crucial to their developmental years: Curiosity, Confidence, and Community, where students can explore out of their comfort zone and enjoy a range of activities both in and out of the classrooms. Nestled in a sprawling 15-acre green landscape, the campus is an ideal backdrop for learning about sustainability and climate change, enriching the students’ understanding of global issues. Activities include regional field trips, ecological studies, and community engagement, balanced with daily physical activities alongside a technology detox to foster mindfulness and strengthen personal connections. The Highlands Programme will be headed by the new Head of Tanglin Gippsland, Mark Cutchie. The holistic approach to the Highlands Programme aims to nurture lifelong learners who can contribute with confidence on the broader world. More information about the Highlands Programme here.
Tanglin Trust School, 95 Portsdown Road, Singapore 139299, Tel: (+65) 6778 0771, www.tts.edu.sg
Primus Schoolhouse
News: Primus Schoolhouse’s Sports Day
Primus Schoolhouse will be hosting its annual Sports Day in August 2024, and they’re promising that it’ll be the biggest one yet, as they’re bringing all three preschools together for this event! There will be several activities tailored to different age groups and abilities from races to relay games that the whole family can join in. These activities are curated to develop motor skills such as running, jumping, and throwing, as well as nurture physical, emotional, and social development. With a huge community coming together, kids will learn essential skills such as teamwork, cooperation, the importance of belonging and more. The Primus Schoolhouse Sports Day will also be a great opportunity for them to build new friendships as they learn to communicate, collaborate, and support one another, laying the groundwork for essential social skills such as empathy, leadership, and conflict resolution.
Primus Schoolhouse, 321 Alexandra Road, 70 Bukit Tinggi Road and 262 River Valley Rd, Tel: (+65) 6252 3024, www.primus.edu.sg
The Straits Waldorf School
News: Open House on 8 June 2024
The Straits Waldorf School adopts a holistic approach to its curriculum, seamlessly integrating intellectual, artistic, and practical instruction across all grade levels. This approach caters to diverse learning styles and interests, fostering an environment where students thrive. Emphasising individual learning goals, the school ensures that students reach their full potential and are equipped to make informed decisions for their future. Inspired by nature and the arts, the school’s intimate classroom settings provide a conducive learning environment that stimulates creativity and critical thinking. Students develop independence, curiosity, and relationship-building skills, preparing them to become lifelong learners. At their upcoming Open House on 8 June, take the opportunity to explore the learning spaces and curriculum of the Straits Waldorf School. You and your child can also participate in craft workshops, games, school tours, lesson demonstrations, and more! Register here. Register here.
Quote SASSY25 to enjoy 25% off registration fees!
The Straits Waldorf School, 78 Jalan Senang Singapore 418417, www.straitswaldorf.com
Astor International School
News: Open House on 11 May 2024
Astor International School provides a hands-on, inquiry-based approach to learning for children aged 5 to 12 years old and aims to provide quality, affordable education in a nurturing environment that develops life-long learners with a passion for knowledge. Astor offers a curriculum based on the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), British English and Singapore Math. With a maximum class size of 20 students, teachers provide individualised attention to nurture confident learners. Students are also encouraged to become critical thinkers and ask questions. Parents can customise their child’s enrichment classes, selecting from various options, including sports, foreign languages, coding, and arts. Astor International School will be hosting an Open House on 11 May, where you can experience the vibrant learning spaces, meet the staff, and learn more about daily life at the school. Register now to secure your spot!
Use promo code SASSYMAMA to get a full Admission Fee Waiver worth S$1,853. Terms and conditions apply. This offer is valid until 14 June 2024.
Astor International School, 1 Kay Siang Road, #05-01/02, Singapore 248922, Tel: (+65) 6974 5700, www.astor.edu.sg
Australian International School
News: Open House on 16 May 2024
With a rich 30-year history, the Australian International School (AIS) has consistently delivered comprehensive education to international students in Singapore. Students here have achieved exceptional International Baccalaureate (IB) results, boasting an average of 33.1 out of 45, surpassing the global average of 29.06. This success is attributed to the globally recognized IB framework, which guides AIS students from infancy up to 18 years. AIS offers a well-rounded education thanks to its diverse curriculum encompassing mathematics, music, and arts alongside enriching outdoor excursions, access to state-of-the-art facilities and a choice of over 300 co-curricular activities. AIS has ongoing enrolment opportunities throughout the year, with monthly open houses. You’re invited to their upcoming open house on 16 May, where you get to explore their facilities, curriculum, extensive CCA options, and more. Register here.
Australian International School, 1 Lorong Chuan Singapore 556 818, Tel: 6517 0247, www.ais.com.sg
Canadian International School (CIS)
News: Chinese-English Bilingual programme + Open house on 31 May 2024
CIS invites you to learn more about its award-winning Chinese-English bilingual programme at its upcoming 31 May Open House! As the pioneer of this initiative in Singapore, CIS has built a strong reputation for cultivating bilingualism. With a unique 50:50 teaching model, students alternate between English and Chinese instruction daily, supported by two qualified teachers per class— one native English speaker and one native Chinese speaker. Fully aligned with the IB Primary Years Programme, this curriculum is available from pre-kindergarten to grade 6, offering proven success in nurturing bilingualism. Led by Principal Dr. Du Lijuan and Vice Principal Jane Martuneac, the dedicated CEB division ensures seamless operation and strategic planning. Explore this dynamic programme at CIS’ upcoming Open House, where you can also attend campus tours and meet the leadership team. Register here.
Canadian International School, Lakeside Campus: 7 Jurong West Street 41, Singapore 649414, Tel: (+65) 6467 1732, www.cis.edu.sg
Chatsworth International School
News: Growing and Thriving Sports and CCAs, School Fair
New students joining Chatsworth International School will be thrilled to know that the school has added a number of new CCAs and ECAs, providing approximately 60 options for each of their three sessions throughout the year. These include a diverse range of sports and educational activities, providing students with opportunities to explore their interests while fostering community, teamwork, and leadership skills. The offerings also amplify the school’s commitment to providing a holistic education beyond the classroom. In fact, its sports CCAs successfully clinched different milestones this year, including the addition of the U19 Boys Volleyball team, which competed for the first time, and the debut of the Secondary Swim Team at the Middle School Championships. Other non-sports CCAs also deserve recognition, such as the Model United Nations (MUN) CCA, where students had the opportunity to discuss global issues and challenge the boundaries of academic rigour through participation in various MUN Conferences. Chatsworth International School will be holding their upcoming internal school fair where students and family members can engage in various activities while supporting the school’s adopted charities.
Chatsworth International School, 72 Bukit Tinggi Rd, Singapore 289760, Tel: (+65) 6463 3201, www.chatsworth.com.sg
Dulwich College (Singapore)
News: 10th anniversary, TES Awards for International Schools, opening of The Greenhouse
Dulwich College (Singapore) will celebrate its 10th anniversary this year with plenty to shout about. From their humble beginnings with 884 students from Toddler to Year 8, the school now has over 2900 students through Year 13. Notably, Dulwich College (Singapore) has been recognised as the only school with two TES Awards for International Schools 2024: The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award and the Sustainability Award. Additionally, the school is a finalist for the prestigious TES Awards International School of the Year 2024. As part of its commitment to sustainability, the school has officially opened The Greenhouse, a net-zero energy educational building. This innovative structure is powered by renewable energy sources and has earned the distinction of being the first international school building to be certified Green Mark Platinum Zero Energy by the Building and Construction Authority of Singapore. March of this year was also an eventful month, where over 891 students from 13 schools across the Dulwich International community came together and participated in sports competitions, art workshops, musical performances, and a collaborative dramatic rendition of The Odyssey.
Dulwich College (Singapore), 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, 658966, www.singapore.dulwich.org
EtonHouse International School Orchard
News: New outdoor space + Experience Day on 11 May 2024
EtonHouse International School Orchard has recently expanded its campus to incorporate an expansive outdoor forest area designed to spark curiosity, stimulate learning, and foster a deep connection with nature. This expansion reflects the school’s ongoing dedication to providing students with abundant opportunities for personal growth and exploration. The new outdoor space features purpose-built areas for games, fitness and hands-on educational adventures. From creative writing sessions to immersive eco-conscious initiatives, this outdoor extension enhances the learning experience, encouraging students to explore beyond the classrooms and to develop an interest in the natural world. What’s more, the forest space serves as a communal hub for students, teachers, and parents, offering opportunities for gatherings such as picnics, camping adventures, and more. Book a school tour or join the upcoming Experience Day on 11 May 2024 to discover more about the school’s primary to high school IBPYP, IGCSE and International A-Levels curriculum and offerings. Register here.
EtonHouse International School Orchard, 10 Tanglin Road, Singapore 247908, Tel: (+65) 6513 1155, www.etonhouse.edu.sg/orchard
Holland International School
News: Nurturing socially conscious and globally competent learners
The Holland International School has been offering quality education for children aged 1.5 to 12 years old for 100 years! Inspired by the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), the school offers both a Dutch and English Stream for students to look forward to a rich and engaging learning environment. In March 2024, the school achieved 10 out of 17 Sustainability Development Goals (SDG). Students actively took meaningful actions, raising awareness within the community and beyond. Through hands-on experiences – for instance, for SDG 2 Zero Hunger students actively participated in collecting food for the Foodbank in Singapore – as well as community partnerships, recycling projects and more, students at the Holland International School are empowered to take steps towards making a difference.
Holland International School, 65 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289757, Tel: (+65) 6466 0662, www.hollandinternationalschool.sg
International Community School (Singapore) (ICS)
News: Overseas trips for Middle and High School students + International ASCS Tri-Sports competition
Since 1993, ICS has been a non-profit international school that has consistently delivered excellence in international education and is committed to nurturing well-rounded, future-ready leaders who excel academically and personally. ICS takes pride in their holistic education and provides personalised learning experiences through small classes. The American curriculum is grounded in the biblical worldview, which helps foster a close-knit community with students from over 30 nationalities. ICS is reintroducing overseas trips for Middle and High School students through its Week Without Walls programme, offering experiential learning and meaningful community engagement. Additionally, students will participate in the Asian Christian Schools Conference (ACSC) Tri-Sports Competition, featuring soccer, basketball, and volleyball. This year, the students even had service learning opportunities, including working with refugee children, which further highlights ICS’s commitment to holistic education and dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Learn more about the Week Without Walls and other offerings at their upcoming Virtual Open House on 5 June! Click here to register.
Enjoy $500 off application fees when you apply to ICS within a month of the Virtual Open House.
International Community School, 27A Jubilee Road, Singapore 128575, Tel: (+65) 6776 7435, www.ics.edu.sg
International French School (IFS)
News: Music and Cultural Exchange at the AEFE Asia-Pacific Chorasies 2024
In April 2024, the International French School (Singapore) (IFS) orchestrated a remarkable cultural exchange, bringing together over 130 talented students from prestigious French schools across the Asia-Pacific region for a three-day event. The culmination of this exchange was a vibrant concert, the AEFE Asia-Pacific Chorasies 2024, where these students collaborated with Singaporean musicians, taking the audience on a captivating musical journey blending French and Asian music seamlessly. This group of international students, led by dedicated music teachers, showcased the power of cultural immersion, highlighting how music serves as a universal language, uniting individuals across the region. If you’re intrigued by IFS’s exchange programmes and offerings, mark your calendars for their upcoming Open House on 25 May. Reserve your spot today!
International French School, 3000 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore 569928, Tel: (+65) 6805 0000, www.ifs.edu.sg
Invictus International Preschool
News: World Environment Day at Invictus International Preschool @ Grandeur Park
Invictus International Preschool will be hosting World Environment Day this May, and you and your child are invited! This will be a great opportunity if you’re looking at different preschool options for your little one. There will be several hands-on activities to celebrate Mother Earth, such as gardening workshops and eco-friendly craft stations that will encourage curiosity and exploration amongst the kiddos. There will also be talks on environmental conservation, where you’ll learn how the school weaves environmental themes into its curriculum. You’ll get to tour the facilities and classrooms, talk with the school’s educators and more. The event will be held on Wednesday, 29 May 2024, 5pm – 7pm at Grandeur Park Residences (11 Bedok South Ave 3, B1-04, Singapore 465461). Register here.
Invictus International Preschool, Grandeur Park Residences, 1 Bedok South Ave 3, Singapore 465461, Tel: (+65) 6929 8851, www.invictus.preschool.edu.sg
Middleton International School and Middleton Pre-School
News: Middleton welcomes two new principals
Middleton West Coast Campus has welcomed two new leaders to join its community this year. Anne-Marie Connor assumes the role of Principal at Middleton International School West Coast Campus, bringing with her over two decades of invaluable experience in education spanning Scotland, Switzerland, Russia, and Papua New Guinea. With expertise in teaching methodologies, professional development, and curriculum implementation, Anne-Marie aims to drive positive change and growth within the school community. Meanwhile, Doreen Wong takes on the role of Principal at Middleton Pre-School, which opened its doors in January 2024, co-located with Middleton International School West Coast. The school caters to children from Pre-Nursery to Kindergarten 2 and offers extended school hours from 7am – 7pm and enriching programmes during school holidays at no additional cost. With 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Doreen has successfully led the EtonHouse Pre-School campus and brings a deep understanding of the inquiry-based pedagogy inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach. Meet the new leaders and tour the campus facilities and spaces at the upcoming Middleton West Coast Experience Day on 11 May 2024! Register here.
Middleton International School and Middleton Pre-School, 20 Harbour Drive, Singapore 117612 and 2 Tampines Street 92, Singapore 528889, Tel: (+65) 6916 0740, www.middleton.edu.sg
Nexus International School (Singapore)
News: Green Initiatives, achievements wall, a wellbeing app by students, new leadership opportunities
Nexus International School (Singapore) continues to impress with its latest developments, particularly in its green initiatives. This year, the school has introduced two newly installed Indigo Vats, managed by art teachers, to teach students about natural dyeing. These vats feature a closed-loop system, ensuring resource efficiency and minimising environmental impact. Additionally, solar panels have been installed to reduce carbon footprint. Nexus has implemented an Excellence Wall to showcase student and staff achievements, celebrating resilience and fostering a positive school environment. Recently, the school celebrated five students who independently developed Nexwelll, a wellbeing app offering mental health hotlines, mindful games, and the school timetable. This initiative originated from the students’ personal interests, demonstrating their initiative beyond the classroom. Lastly, Nexus is enhancing leadership opportunities with nine dedicated groups, including the Learner Council, Care for World Ambassadors, and Curriculum Ambassadors, providing students with diverse avenues for personal growth. This initiative also serves as an additional means to amplify student voices.
Nexus International School (Singapore), 1 Aljunied Walk, Singapore 387293, Tel: (+65) 6536 6566, www.nexus.edu.sg
SFA Eduhearts International School
News: New campus in Tampines
SFA Eduhearts International School has recently opened its new campus in Tampines Plaza 1! The new campus embraces its S.U.R.E framework, incorporating excellence, sportsmanship and artistic expression to create a vibrant and enriching educational journey for its students. Since its inception in 2016, the school has garnered acclaim for its international primary and secondary programmes, seamlessly integrating the Singapore Curriculum from the Ministry of Education with cutting-edge technology. With affordable fees and a commitment to inclusivity, students from all backgrounds are welcome, and the school accepts rolling admissions.
SFA Eduhearts International School, Tampines Plaza 1, 537 Hougang Sreet 52 and 835 Jurong West Street 81, www.sfaeduhearts.com
Singapore American School
News: 2024 Summer Semester camps are back!
Singapore American School is bringing back its exciting Summer Semester with a full list of holiday courses that are sure to pique your child’s interest. From 10 June to 5 July, the four-week Summer Semester has over 200 courses to choose from, focusing on physical activity, creative problem-solving, and real-world challenges. From filmmaking and music to robotics and sustainability and even investment, there’s something for every passion and interest. Running weekly, each course spans a week and offers the kiddos a glimpse into the different fields and hones communication, teamwork, and bonding skills. Led by experienced educators who prioritise building strong student relationships and fostering positive learning environments, every course promises growth and lots of fun. Transport will also be provided at an additional cost. Each week will cost $850, and registrations are on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to secure your spots fast!
Singapore American School, 40 Woodlands St 41, Singapore 738547, www.sas.edu.sg
St. Joseph’s Institution International Preschool
News: SJI International Preschool Open House on 27 July 2024 + New Shalom House facility
In case you missed it, SJI International has expanded its educational offerings with a new preschool nestled in the serene surroundings of Holland Village! Since its launch last February, the school has welcomed local and expatriate children into its nurturing and enriching learning environment. Here, character development takes centre stage through The Virtues Project™, blending structured and emergent curriculum. Children engage in interactive activities that seamlessly integrate play with learning, fostering a solid foundation in language, numeracy, inquiry, and creative, social, and physical expression. The programme aims to ease the transition to primary school while instilling lifelong skills and attitudes. On 27 July, SJI International invites you to its Open House to discover its unique approach and offerings. Meet the staff, explore the school spaces, and tour the brand-new facility, the Shalom House, which has undergone significant renovations to provide seamless indoor and outdoor learning spaces, enhancing the school’s educational experience. Register here.
St. Joseph’s Institution International Preschool, 49B Holland Road Singapore 258851, [email protected], www.sji-internationalpreschool.com.sg
Stamford American International School
News: Top score at Math Olympiad, Japanese & Korean offered, Stamford American’s annual International Festival
The past year was remarkable for students at Stamford American International School. One standout accomplishment was 12th-grader David’s outstanding performance at the American Mathematics Olympiads (AMO), where he secured the top score in Singapore, triumphing over 28,000 students from 36 countries. The school had sent 221 students from grades 2 – 12 to participate, and five students brought home gold medals. The school clinched a whopping 42 medals – six gold, 12 silver and 24 bronze. In addition to academic success, Stamford expanded its curriculum by introducing Japanese and Korean languages, providing native speakers opportunities to develop their mother tongue skills. Led by native teachers, these language courses pave the way for students to earn a bilingual diploma in the future. The school’s Grade 10 Personal Project Exhibition showcased students’ creativity and innovation, with projects ranging from the study of Kawasaki Disease to building a guitar from scratch. Additionally, the Stamford annual International Festival was also a success, as it celebrated diversity and culture through performances, cultural booths, and engaging activities.
Stamford American International School, 1 Woodleigh Lane (Off Upper Serangoon Road), Singapore 357684 and 3 Chuan Lane, Gate 4, Singapore 554350, www.sais.edu.sg
Swiss School in Singapore
News: Revamped extra-curricular activities programme launching August 2024
Swiss School in Singapore is set to launch an enhanced Extra Curricular Activities Programme this August, adding three themes: Sustainability, Socio-Emotional Activities and Engineering/Aviation. From as early as Kindergarten I (4 years old), students have the opportunity to explore a variety of activities tailored to their interests, enriching their educational experience holistically. The evolution of the programme comes in response to the growing enthusiasm amongst the school community, and it also aligns with the school’s core beliefs about nurturing positive changemakers in the future. The introduction of these new activities addresses contemporary issues, providing students with valuable insights and fueling their curiosity and passion.
Swiss School in Singapore, 38 Swiss Club Road, 288140 Singapore, Tel: (+65) 6468 2117, swiss-school.edu.sg
The Grange International Preschool
News: Sustainable School of the Year, specialist subjects, Healthy Preschool award
The Grange International Preschool (TGIP), affiliated with The Grange Institution, caters to children aged 3 to 6 years old. The school has achieved significant milestones in its three years of operation, including being awarded Sustainable School of the Year 2023 at the Singapore Education Awards. This recognition builds upon its two-time award-winning Green Granger Initiative, in which the school has already completed the first phase of design and development to extend the nature-inspired learning space. The school has also earned the Platinum Tier designation as a Healthy Preschool from the Health Promotion Board of Singapore, a distinction granted to only 25% of preschools nationwide. In terms of curriculum, TGIP incorporated specialist subjects such as Personal, Social & Physical Education (PSPE), Music, Art, Technology, and Languages at no additional cost, emphasising a holistic educational approach. Notably, Coding is delivered by the award-winning coding partner, Coding Lab, offering a MIT-inspired curriculum. Additionally, students can participate in enrichment classes that enhance linguistic, cultural, and interpersonal skills, enriching their educational experience.
The Grange Preschool, 449 Yio Chu Kang Road Singapore 805946, Tel: (+65) 6817 3630, www.preschool.thegrange.edu.sg
XCL American Academy
News: Newly-opened purpose-built campus + Pioneer Town
XCL American Academy (XAA) unveiled its new purpose-built campus in February 2024, designed to embody a nurturing and inclusive environment, igniting students’ intellectual curiosity and fostering a lifelong passion for learning. With a commitment to providing high-quality and fee-accessible education to all, the school’s new campus prioritises safety and support, creating an ideal setting for students to thrive. Despite its modest size, XAA takes pride in its close-knit community, which helps cultivate strong relationships among the students, teachers and parents. Its new initiative, Pioneer Town, is an experiential learning programme for primary school students and up. The programme teaches students about practical subjects such as business, marketing, and civics, nurturing creativity, ambition, a resilient mindset, and core American values of respect, honour, and courage.
XCL American Academy, 2 Yishun Street 42, Singapore 768039, Tel: (+65) 6230 4222, www.xaa.edu.sg
XCL World Academy
News: New campus extension – The Innovation Hub + new bilingual programme model
XCL World Academy (XWA) has recently expanded its campus to include a new learning space – the Innovation Hub. The expansion aligns with the school’s commitment to preparing students for the dynamic future, equipping them with the relevant skills and experiences. The Innovation Hub features a multi-level facility and incorporates the latest technology and specialised labs for digital multimedia, fabrication, and design thinking. What’s more, there is also a black box theatre, a versatile eSports arena, and a top-floor student lounge, enhancing the learning experience for its students. The school’s English-Chinese (Mandarin) Bilingual Programme also boasts two native-speaking (English and Mandarin) homeroom teachers, including a small teacher-to-student ratio that provides students sufficient and individual support for their bilingual learning journey.
XCL World Academy, 2 Yishun Street 42, Singapore 768039, Tel: (+65) 6230 4230, www.xwa.edu.sg
Do you have some interesting school news to share? Send it to our team at [email protected]