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International School News in Singapore: Mental Health Services, New Sustainable Facilities, Bilingual Programmes, Open Houses & More!

International School News - SAS
LearnPost Category - LearnLearn - Post Category - SchoolsSchools

With new bilingual and math heuristics programmes, improved outdoor playgrounds, new facilities, mental health services and more – there’s plenty going on in Singapore’s international schools in 2021!

Looking for an international school that suits your child’s educational needs? We’ve got all the international school news you’ll want to know before making this choice. Keep scrolling to learn about new mental health initiatives, stunning facilities, excellent educational programmes and more. Plus, several of these international schools are hosting onsite or virtual Open Houses, if you want a closer look for yourself!

Read more: International Schools in Singapore: School Reviews, Programmes & More

International School News - SAS Reimagined Campus

Singapore American School (SAS) – $400 million campus upgrade

Singapore American School (SAS) recently announced a $400 million campus upgrade called SAS Reimagined that will redefine the role of the humble classroom and the school’s facilities in their students’ learning journey. The project will provide unmatched learning opportunities for students and teachers, and stems from school community engagement – thousands of educators, parents and students were consulted, and their feedback incorporated throughout the development process. The campus’ new design aims to be flexible enough to meet the needs of both current students and future ones, adapting to the changing education landscape, and allowing learning to evolve with time. The new campus will have more space for learning and play activities as well as new programmes. In fact, learning space will increase by as much as 30%, while the play spaces will grow by at least 84%!

The new classrooms will be modular, incorporating sliding glass doors, moveable walls, and flexible seating that will let teachers adjust their classrooms where needed. Furthermore, SAS’ new campus will also have smarter learning environments. For example, digital room reservation software means teachers can set their preferred lighting and temperature, while a sustainability dashboard provides real-time, energy use data. The campus will also be green, meeting Singapore’s Green Mark Platinum and WELL standards. The project is set to be completed in three phases, and one of the first areas due for completion is the series of athletic fields on the west side of the campus. These will include a baseball field, one full-size soccer/football field, and four tennis/multi-purpose courts – these may also be available for community use during non-school hours. SAS will also have a garden plot for local community members to plant new gardens. Phase one of the project was completed on 29 May 2021, while the entire upgrade will be finished by fall 2026.

Singapore American School, 40 Woodlands Street 41, Singapore 738547, Tel: (+65) 6363 3403, www.sas.edu.sg


International School News - Dulwich

Dulwich College (Singapore) – New SE21 Innovation Hub

​​Dulwich College (Singapore) is excited to announce that work has started on the building of their new SE21 Innovation Hub.  This seven-storey, state-of-the-art structure will provide additional creative learning spaces, including a 400-seat multi-purpose auditorium, a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths) workshop to accommodate its SE21 initiative (STEAM and Entrepreneurship in the 21st Century), a professional teaching kitchen, film and media suites, three additional black box theatres, IT rooms, another gymnasium, tennis courts and a sports science laboratory. The hub will also include a vast two-storey IB library, workspaces, study rooms and social areas for its pre-university students. As part of Dulwich’s journey to a more sustainable future, the new building will not only be Green Mark Platinum-certified – the highest sustainable construction certification – but also a net-zero energy building. The new SE21 Innovation Hub will be completed in August 2023 and will provide an abundance of opportunities for its students, adding to the already impressive facilities at Dulwich College (Singapore).

Dulwich College (Singapore), 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore 658966, singapore.dulwich.org


International School News - Brighton College (Singapore)

Brighton College (Singapore) – Personal chats with the Headmaster & Virtual Open House

Brighton College (Singapore) is a proud member of the Brighton College family of international schools; their Prep and Pre-Prep schools create a nurturing and personalised environment where each child is individually known by the whole school community and where they can be academically challenged. Despite the current challenges, the word is certainly out about the quality of education on offer at Brighton College (Singapore), which offers children aged 18 months to 11 years a solid learning foundation through the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and the English National Curriculum. This deliberately small prep school has already grown from 36 pupils last August to more than 140, and is now planning on opening new classes in key year groups in January 2022 to keep up with demand.

When children ‘graduate’ from Brighton College (Singapore), the school’s programme will ensure that children are well-placed to move onto their secondary school of choice here in Singapore or overseas. Their programmes echo the excellence seen at its award-winning founding school – Brighton College was recently named the UK’s Independent School of the Decade – underpinned by the Brighton College values of curiosity, confidence and kindness. Arrange a call with the Headmaster or join the next virtual Open House to discover if Brighton College would be a good fit for your child.

Brighton College (Singapore), 1 Chuan Lane, Singapore 554299, www.brightoncollege.edu.sg


International School News - AIS

Australian International School Singapore (AIS) – Live Early Learning Village virtual school tour

Want to do a school tour but can’t because of the current health and safety restrictions? Fret not, because AIS has just launched a live virtual tour of their Early Learning Village. Join their Early Years leadership team and ask questions, as they ‘virtually’ walk you through their youngest learners facilities. You will get to peek into their classrooms and speciality areas and get a taste of what your child can expect on a daily basis. Click here to register for AIS’ very first ELV Virtual Tour!

Australian International School Singapore, 1 Lorong Chuan Singapore 556818, www.ais.com.sg


International School News - CIS

Canadian International School (CIS) – Expansion of bilingual programmes

Being fluent in a second or third language is critical in today’s globalised world, as it builds linguistic skills and develops cultural understanding. CIS is now expanding its pioneering Chinese-English and French-English bilingual programmes. They are known for their 50:50 teaching model, which sees students being taught in English one day, and in Chinese or French the next. This ensures equal exposure to both languages without translation or repetition. In addition to learning about the language’s culture of origin, children will also become fluent bi-literate speakers. Currently available to young learners in pre-kindergarten to Grade 6, the programme is fully aligned with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP).

This model has been so successful that the Chinese-English bilingual programme now has 47 classes and will be extended to nursery students and to Grade 6 in 2022. Want to learn more about CIS’ academic programmes? Join an Open House and experience a CIS welcome first-hand, hear from the Head of School and ask the academic team your questions. Parents with younger children can join the Kindergarten Open House, which will feature fun and engaging activities that integrate concepts like literacy, math and STEAM.

Canadian International School, multiple locations, www.cis.edu.sg


International School News - Dover Court International School

Dover Court International School (DCIS) – Expanded student activities

Over the summer break, DCIS enhanced and refurbished their Early Years outdoor spaces, and as a result, students under the Reggio-inspired Early Years Programme that follows the updated Early Years Foundation Stage Framework – can enjoy a wider range of activities on a daily basis. These refurbished outdoor spaces serve as extensions to the classrooms and are shared between students. Now, in addition to specialist lessons in PE, Swimming, library time, music and ICT, children will also enjoy weekly extracurricular activities that are related to PE skills. These active, outdoor sessions will take place within the school day.

Dover Court International School, 301 Dover Road, 139644 Singapore, www.dovercourt.edu.sg


International School News - Dynamics International School

Dynamics International School – 2021 Enrolment Discounts & Free Trial

Dynamics International School (DIS) is a private boutique school for children aged 3 to 12 years old. They offer inclusive and integrated mainstream and special education curricula – the British National Curriculum and International Primary Curriculum – for preschool and primary levels. DIS students thrive in their education journey through dedicated teachers, personalised attention from a low student-teacher ratio, an Individualised Learning Programme (ILP) to aid their academic progression and more! For students requiring special support, DIS also offers educational therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy and other relevant therapeutic services through their very own multidisciplinary team of professionals.

Get 50% off your child’s enrolment and assessment fees and a free two-day trial at DIS! The promotions are available for a limited time only, so email or call the school to find out more.

Dynamics International School, 583 Orchard Road, #13-03 Forum The Shopping Mall, [email protected], Tel: (+65) 6100 9235, www.dynamics.school


International School News - GESS

GESS – International School – New middle school electives programme

GESS is introducing a new Middle School electives programme to encourage students to pursue their passions and develop skills in areas beyond the curriculum. Students from grades 6 to 8 will be able to choose from three different categories of electives: arts, outdoor education and fitness, and computing and design technology. Within these categories, some of the electives include visual arts, mountain biking, coding and design. The electives are unique and truly offer students a challenge in their areas of passion, encouraging them to push their limits. Students are not assessed or graded but will get regular feedback from the electives instructors so that they can travel farther in their own journey. This new electives programme ties in with GESS’ emphasis on giving every child, with their various talents, interests and passions, the freedom to grow.

GESS – International School, 2 Dairy Farm Lane, Singapore 677621,  www.gess.sg/en


International School News - GIG International School

GIG International School (GIGIS) – Raising inquiring global citizens

In today’s fast-paced world where knowledge and information are developing rapidly, it is imperative to stay relevant and connected to not just the changes in education but the world. GIG International School’s transformative, proprietary 4Q learning framework is designed to nurture a new generation of global citizens, inculcating in them the spirit of enquiry, innovation, entrepreneurship, and a solid eco-consciousness. With an emphasis on producing lifelong learners, GIGIS’ academic curriculum is based on best practices from Cambridge & International Baccalaureate (IB) and helps students exceed their potential by igniting the curiosity in their minds and guiding them. The small class size at GIGIS ensures active and focused learning, allowing teachers to gain insights into each child’s individual development. The team of educators are also committed to providing a safe environment for students and the unique 5C Safety Protocol is designed for unmatched security in all aspects be it physical, visual, digital, data or emotional security, ensuring that all children feel comfortable, secure, and happy at school. Their proprietary “4Quadrant” approach hones social and cognitive skills, develops positive attitudes, and values and creates sustainable solutions to make every child a future-ready global citizen. An accessible and affordable, world-class institution, GIGIS partners with you to take your child from strength to strength.

GIG International School, 190 Changi Road, MDIS Building, #01-01A, Singapore 419974, www.gigis.edu.sg


International School News - GIIS

GIIS – New Kindergarten programme

GIIS recently commenced an extended Kindergarten programme for children aged 2.5 to 5. The “Extended Global Montessori Plus” programme runs from 9am to 3:30 pm, and incorporates the Maria Montessori approach while adopting modern best practices in preschool education. The six-hour programme for Nursery, Kindergarten 1 and Kindergarten 2 students has been thoughtfully designed to include language and mathematics lessons, environmental awareness, music and movement, practical life lessons, motor skills development and sensorial exercises in the morning session. Each day in the afternoon, there will be a story-telling/manipulatives session. Other activities and subjects that are offered on a rotational basis include dance, speech and drama, art, physical education and creative sessions involving themes such as design thinking and maker spacers. This programme provides preschoolers with a good balance of academic and skills development. Social skills and self-confidence are developed as children have more time to interact with their peers. There are also many opportunities for young children to sharpen their cognitive and sensory skills through this programme. GIIS’ specialised Kindergarten educators personalise every child’s preschool journey, within the safe and child-friendly environment of their campus. Competitively priced at $1,178.25 per month (before GST), it is a not-to-be-missed preschool programme. To know more details, schedule a campus tour with GIIS.

GIIS, multiple locations, singapore.globalindianschool.org, +65 6914 7100


international school news - The Grange Institution

The Grange Institution – New math heuristics programme

Singapore Math is known worldwide not just for its rigour, but for teaching students how to apply mathematical theories and build on concepts to solve problems. However, Singapore Math is also known for being demanding and relying heavily on mastery of the material. The Grange Institution believes in balance – allowing students to develop an understanding of how to apply the different strategies from these heuristics to solve complex problems without taking away the joy of learning through hours of drilling and homework. Since June 2021, teachers have undergone training on how to incorporate heuristics into their teaching of math. The intention of introducing math heuristics is not to replace the Cambridge math that the school is already doing, but to complement and enhance the quality of math that students learn. Join The Grange’s virtual open house via Zoom to learn more about their new math programme, their AEL, Mandarin and Japanese mother tongue language offerings, as well as the Green Granger initiatives. Plus find out how to get reduced school fees for the 2022 school year!

Get $2000 off enrolment fees for a limited time only!

The Grange Institution, 449 Yio Chu Kang Road, Singapore 805946, www.thegrange.edu.sg


International School News - The Guild Singapore

The GUILD International College – Holistic learning for teens with different abilities

Singapore’s first private arts and trade-based college for students 16 years and above, The GUILD caters to those who would thrive in a non-academic curriculum. The college provides safe spaces that celebrate inclusivity through collaboration, and their individualised learning programmes are paired with practical work experience and work training in various areas. This approach helps them gain confidence before the transition to a workplace or higher education. The programmes on offer at The GUILD include Transition, Certificate, Foundation and short-term courses – the Transition Programme is best suited for students with diverse needs to work towards independence, while the Certificate Programme from ASDAN, UK, helps students learn specific skills to help them increase their chances of employability. The Foundation Programme from Edu Cluster Finland provides a route to further education to a degree programme. Meanwhile, short vocational training courses in various areas of learning in design and technology, culinary skills, music production, sound engineering, carpentry as well as creative endeavours like photography, filmmaking and DJing are also available at affordable prices. This financially inclusive college is open to Singaporeans, PR’s and all nationalities

Enjoy zero registration fees for 2021, a free assessment upon admission and a one-day trial session.

The GUILD International College, 318A Tanglin Road, Phoenix Park Singapore 247979, [email protected], www.theguild.edu.sg


International School News – ICS

International Community School (Singapore) (ICS) – Expanded counselling support services

Starting this school year, International Community School (Singapore) has expanded its counselling support services! Whether students are struggling with home-based learning, or simply trying to make sense of a world that’s constantly changing, ICS wants their students to feel seen and safe. Their mental health is of paramount importance, which is why the school has hired a brand new Social-Emotional counsellor, HaYoung Jung, who will be solely dedicated to the well-being of ICS’ middle and high school students. HaYoung Jung will be joining their elementary school counsellor, Dr. Helen Rader, as well as middle and high School Academic counsellor, Eric Laug. This movement goes hand-in-hand with ICS’ continued vision to embody a holistic approach to education – one that appreciates how students’ academic performance hinges directly on the state of their mental health. These robust counselling support services complement the holistic approach to education that is a key component of their American curriculum that values flexibility and caters to the individual learning needs of every student. If you want to learn more about the curriculum at ICS – and how the counselling team is helping students achieve academic and personal excellence – attend the next Virtual Open House on 13 November 2021. Send an email to [email protected] for more information.

Those who attend the Virtual Open House will get a $500 discount off of their child’s application fee. This promo is valid until 13 December 2021.

International Community School (Singapore), 27A Jubilee Road, Singapore 128575, [email protected], www.ics.edu.sg


International School News – IFS

International French School (Singapore) (IFS) – New sustainability corner

Building on its ‘Green IFS’ initiative, IFS has set up a new Sustainability Corner, where students can read, play, listen to conferences to raise awareness on the current challenges and solutions for a healthier planet. This summer, IFS built a brand new climbing wall that their 1300 primary school students now enjoy within their sports programme. An inclusive school that’s open to all nationalities, including families who are not native French speakers, IFS has language support programmes (included in the school fees) that are tailored to each student’s needs. The school offers bilingual education in French and English – non-French speakers are accepted until Grade 6 – and has comprehensive extracurricular activities, arts, culture and sports programmes. IFS also has state-of-the-art facilities such as swimming pools, two climbing walls, dance studio, dojo, track & field, and soccer fields, and a passionate educational team that prioritises the success of children in all their academic, social and personal development.

The International French School (Singapore), 3000 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore 569928, www.ifs.edu.sg


International School News - IIS

Integrated International School (IIS) – Inclusive education

The highly specialised and dedicated team at Integrated International School (IIS) strongly believe that children of all abilities deserve a tailored and quality education to reach their personal level of success. The inclusive school teaches students the importance of self-belief, confidence, individuality and happiness, thus paving the way for their journey of success, with student well-being at the forefront of their educational journey. IIS provides a nurturing environment with two educational approaches: mainstream and supported learning. The school’s on-campus support services include a team of experienced behavioural therapists, counsellors, psychologists, occupational therapists as well as speech and language pathologists. They work closely and collaboratively with teachers and parents to tailor Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) for students. If a student is struggling academically, behaviorally, emotionally or socially, teachers are highly trained to identify when a child may need additional support. The smaller class sizes (1:6 teacher-to-student ratio) allow teachers to provide an individualised learning experience. In addition, there are unique purpose-built facilities such as the multi-sensory Ocean Snoezelen Room and Occupational Therapy Jungle Gym as well as private suites for counselling, speech and naturalistic applied behavioural analysis (NABA) therapy sessions.

Integrated International School, 41 Sunset Way, #01-01, Singapore 597071, www.iis.edu.sg


International School News – Nexus International School Singapore

Nexus International School (Singapore) – Scholarships Now Open!

Nexus International School (Singapore) is now offering both Academic and Swimming scholarships to incoming learners who excel in these disciplines. Their scholarship opportunities offer concessions that cover between 25% to 100% of the annual tuition fees. The award covers two full academic years, which also covers the complete International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Successful scholarship applications are also entitled to a full 100% waiver on the application fee, enrolment fee and the school development fund so you can enjoy additional savings of over $5,000. Nexus’ swimming scholarships are specially curated to provide a personalised approach to swimming, and their swim squad has a good balance of both national and global exposure. Additionally, Nexus frequently competes against international schools and on international levels such as the World and European Junior Championships. Applications are open from now until 29 October 2021.

Nexus International School (Singapore), 1 Aljunied Walk Singapore 387293, Tel: (+65) 6536 6566, www.nexus.edu.sg


international school news - NPS International School

NPS International School – Strong IB results & holistic learning culture

Academic excellence is the main focus for NPS International School, and the educators here prioritise a holistic learning experience for your child. This encompasses a wide array of activities, clubs and sports opportunities, which are all conducted in a positive, motivating and safe environment. Academics is also top of mind at NPS Singapore, and the school ranks 13th in the list of the world’s best IB schools. Their students have achieved an average high score of 41.6 points and a 100% IB Diploma pass rate, and have won various medals at various international school championships – in fact, their graduating IB Class of 2021 received an average high score of 41.6. Class sizes are kept small at NPS, with an average of 16 students in the IBDP programme, 22 students in IGCSE classes and 25 students in other grades. Not only does this help them build strong communication skills and strong friendships, the small class sizes also means students receive personalised attention, which boosts their academic performance in the long run.

NPS International School, 10 & 12 Chai Chee Lane, Singapore 469021, [email protected], Tel: (+65) 6294 2400, www.npsinternational.com.sg


International School News - NLCS

North London Collegiate School (Singapore) – School welcomes the first cohort of Sixth Form IB Diploma Programme students.

The NLCS programme is synonymous with excellence, ambition and aspiration. NLCS (Singapore) draws on this rich history to provide students with an inspirational and life-changing educational experience that will ensure they become successful, well-rounded, and compassionate human beings. The academically ambitious programme produces scholars and critical thinkers alongside inspirational teaching. Academic enrichment, including the McCabe Lecture series, helps promote an atmosphere of scholarship and subject passion across the whole school. Students are challenged beyond the syllabus, recent examples included their participation in Politics Week, Debating, Model United Nations and National Poetry Day. Students are treated as individuals and supported by outstanding pastoral care and given opportunities to take part in exceptional co-curricular activities. NLCS (Singapore) is proud to welcome its first cohort of Sixth Form students onto the IB Diploma Programme. The class will graduate in summer 2023 and have access to elite universities around the world. Congrats to this school for being awarded CPE’s EduTrust Certification for four years until 2025!

North London Collegiate School (Singapore), 130 Depot Road Singapore 109708, www.nlcssingapore.sg


International School Singapore - Razum International School Singapore

Astor International School – November 2021 Open House

Astor International School (rebranded from Razum International School) is a boutique international primary school that provides education for children aged 5 to 12 years (Years 1 to 7). Founded in 2019, Razum is a small community-based school that prides itself on being able to say that students are a name and not a number. This international school aims to provide quality, affordable education in a nurturing environment that develops life-long learners with a passion for knowledge. Join Astor’s onsite Open House on 6 November 2021, where you’ll meet their amazing teachers and learn how this boutique school stands out from other international schools.

Get a full admission fee waiver when you register your child on the day of the Open house. This promo is only applicable to new students.

Astor International School, 1 Kay Siang Road, #05-01/02, Singapore 248922, www.astor.edu.sg


Preschool Open House – Swiss School Singapore

Swiss School Singapore – Education in English with German or French introduced through interactive lessons

Swiss School Singapore’s Early Childhood Programme is now open for registration and welcomes children from 2 to 4 years for the German Stream and 2 to 3 years old for the French Stream. Children will have the opportunity to learn about the environment, their relationship to the world around them and themselves through play. Students are primarily taught in English, and German or French are gradually introduced through interactive lessons such as singing, crafts, playing together and listening to stories. Swiss School Singapore also offers a full-day option in German and French (until 3:20pm) for children aged 2 to 3 years. Children who are 4 years old can also take advantage of this option from Tuesday to Thursday.

Swiss School in Singapore, 38 Swiss Club Road, Singapore 288140, Tel: (+65) 6468 2117, www.swiss-school.edu.sg/en


green schools singapore energy smoothie bike at tanglin trust school

Tanglin Trust School – School gains new educational award

According to an index compiled by Spear’s and Carfax Education 2021, Tanglin Trust School has once again been listed in their Top 100 Private Schools Globally AND Top 15 Schools in China and Southeast Asia. The win comes as no surprise, as the not-for-profit school is always looking for new ways to improve, often creating excellent educational options like their Tanglin Forest School Programme. Their initiatives always benefit students, and Tanglin Trust School always reports exceptional Results for the (I)GCSE, IBDP and A-Level examinations. In fact, 97% of their students received their first or second choice university! Visit their website to find out more about the school and their forward-thinking educational approach.

Tanglin Trust School, 95 Portsdown Road, Singapore 139299, Tel: (+65) 6770 3583 or (+65) 6770 3480, www.tts.edu.sg

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