
Parent Name: Shruti Jain
Nationality: Indian
Child Name and Age: Shreyan, Grade 7 (at CIS since senior kindergarten)
What factors played into your decision to send your child to this school?
CIS has exceeded our expectations in every way. From offering opportunities for students to grow and providing supportive teachers to maintaining open, clear communication and integrating technology effectively, every aspect has impressed us. Our decision was based on multiple factors:
- The school has a strong culture with engaged staff and a nurturing environment.
- We’ve always had a good experience with the admissions team. They’re always offering support and clarity for any enquiries and concerns that we have.
- During our first campus visit, everyone was very welcoming, giving us a good first impression.
- The classrooms are well-organized and adorned with students’ work, showcasing their learning journey.
- The school is backed by good reviews from fellow CIS parents both online and offline, where most praise is about the holistic development of their children.
- The successful Open Minds & STEAM programme.
- The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is very active and involved.
- Lastly, we love how the Principals and the Head of School greet all students, parents and caregivers every morning.
How did your child adjust to the school? Did the school take any special measures to help with the settling-in process?
Shrey was born in Germany. When we moved here, even though he was very young, it was a difficult transition for him. Several factors such as the weather, culture, people and curriculum, everything was different. Plus, joining in the middle of the term (Feb) made it harder for him to adjust.
His then homeroom teacher was very understanding and provided extra support and attention to help him adjust. She also did extra checks with us and would provide us with updates almost every day. That really helped Shrey in the first month of joining CIS.
What in your opinion are the three greatest strengths of the school?
Coming from a British curriculum background, we wanted to explore the IB curriculum. Along with that, we wanted to select a school with a strong academic reputation, a strong sense of community (fostering an inclusive environment), solid technology integration, and an environment that encourages open communication between parents and staff.
How does the school include parents in the community?
CIS goes above and beyond to foster a strong sense of community among parents. The school regularly organises focused Parent Academy sessions, offering parents valuable insights into the curriculum structure, parenting approaches, student well-being, and more.
The school also organises family-friendly events, allowing parents to share experiences, join their children on field trips, and even take on roles as homeroom or grade representatives, actively contributing to activity planning.
Additionally, the PTA hosts various family events, charity initiatives, and service opportunities for MYP and DP students.
How does the school keep you informed about your child’s progress?
CIS is great at maintaining active and transparent communication with parents. We receive weekly updates through written blogs and photos shared by homeroom teachers, subject teachers, and Principals.
There is also the weekly newsletter which provides a comprehensive overview of all school happenings, ensuring we stay well-informed. At the class level, homeroom teachers are approachable and open to meeting or discussing any concerns throughout the year.
Additionally, parent groups managed by the PTA keep us engaged and up to date on community events and initiatives.
What is the number one thing you’d miss if you transferred your child to another school?
I’ll definitely miss the inclusive culture that CIS has. Here, all cultures and backgrounds are celebrated and respected. Plus, the principals here even have an open-door policy!
What extra-curricular activities or out-of-school programmes does the school offer that you have taken part in?
The school offers a wide range of ECAs that have helped Shrey learn and develop new skills. In particular, Shrey has developed an interest in skating.
Shrey has also been inclined towards Maths and Science, and the school’s advanced STEAM facilities have kept his interest alive and contributed greatly towards his learning!