International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) utilizes the flexibility of the International Baccalaureate programs to encourage an inclusive, broad and balanced approach to learning through inquiry, exploration of concepts, principled and caring citizenship, creative problem solving, collaboration, communication and connectivity. This ultimately produces a level of academic rigor and achievement required for entrance to top-ranked universities worldwide.
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WELCOME TO ISHCMC T
he International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC) represents a culturally diverse group of families and teachers brought together by a common purpose to build a Culture of Achievement in which our community is Energized, Engaged and Empowered. The majority of parents have similar objectives for their children’s education; to be happy, to achieve to the best of their abilities and to be safe. These are the underlying foundations of our mission at ISHCMC. We believe that if students enjoy coming to school and the school provides appropriate guidance and support they will be energized and engaged by their learning and achievements and ultimately empowered to succeed in their lives. At ISHCMC, we have a dedicated and professional faculty of teachers and administrators, gathered from all corners of the world, whose role is to help students become the best they can be in all aspects of their lives. In today’s world, one cannot underestimate the importance of schools that are prepared to listen to research and adjust their pedagogy to reflect new ideas and concepts. It is no longer applicable for schools to solely focus on the acquisition of knowledge and content. Great schools focus on the skills of how to learn; how to think; how to take control of one’s life; how to care and understand about the social and emotional well-being of others; how to build a sustainable future and how to flourish in the 21st century. We look forward to you joining the ISHCMC community.
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WELCOME TO ISHCMC
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ISHCMC produces students who have been equipped with the skills and citizenship required to achieve in the globalized environment they will inherit. Adrian Watts, ISHCMC Headmaster
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WHO WE ARE
CREATING A CULTURE OF ACHIEVEMENT Our Mission As an IB World School, ISHCMC constructs a Culture of Achievement in an environment where students are Energized, Engaged and Empowered to become active participants in their communities. Our Educational Goal To educate students to construct an understanding of knowledge and of their world through carefully developed learning and social skills. Our Vision To be widely recognized as a school that nurtures a creative and collaborative learning environment where students and teachers seek to achieve beyond their goals, flourish as individuals, display compassion, embrace challenge, take principled action on local and global issues and enjoy being part of their community. Our Values • Individual learners • Creative and inquiring thinkers • Learning beyond the classroom • International mindedness • Reflection and goal setting • Collaboration and connectivity • Environmental sustainability • Healthy and mindful choices • Honest and principled actions
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WHO WE ARE
ENERGIZED
Energy emerges from students who are flourishing, physically and mentally healthy, and who are aligned with their inner selves.
EMPOWERED
ISHCMC’s Culture of Achievement encourages students to learn the skills and attitudes necessary to take control of their learning and their lives.
ENGAGED
Students are encouraged to uncover their learning in a collaborative, constructive environment in which they deepen their understanding and create new perspectives.
1993 THE HISTORY OF ISHCMC 1994 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 FIRST IN HO CHI MINH CITY
At ISHCMC, we are extremely proud to have been the first international school in HCMC with the longest history of graduating students to high profile universities around the world.
The Australian Ambassador (far left) and Pham Chanh Truc (far right), Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee cutting the ribbon at the opening ceremony of the Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street campus.
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FIRST IN HO CHI MINH CITY
• ISHCMC, previously known as International Grammar School, opens in District 3.
• International Grammar School’s second campus opens in District 3.
• International Grammar School is renamed “International School Ho Chi Minh City” and moves to its current location in District 2.
• ISHCMC is granted approval to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.
• ISHCMC receives accreditation from ECIS, now known as CIS.
• ISHCMC graduates its first class of IBDP students.
• ISHCMC’s District 3 campus expands to include Early Explorers and Kindergarten students.
2003 2008 2009 2011 2012 2013 2014
• Junior School students move to the An Phu campus. • New school building and library is built.
• ISHCMC receives accreditation from NEASC and is now accredited by two of the most renowned international accreditation organizations wordwide.
District 3 Campus, 1993
• A new Administration building and a MultiPurpose Room/Gymnasium is completed.
• ISHCMC joins the Cognita Schools Group, a family of over 60 schools worldwide.
Second District 3 Campus, 1997
• New facilities are added that include: science laboratories, music rooms, a gymnasium, a 25-meter swimming pool and new play areas.
An Phu Campus, 1997 • ISHCMC celebrates its 20th anniversary and its status as the first international school in Vietnam.
• The Early Explorer and Kindergarten areas are expanded and refurbished.
An Phu Campus, 2015
INQUIRY CONSTRUCTIVISM
ISHCMC’S PEDAGOGY
A
t ISHCMC learning is seen as an active, constructive process arising from observation and scientific study about how people learn best. The student as the learner is encouraged to be an information constructor, actively creating their own understanding and knowledge of the world, through experiencing things and reflecting on those experiences. This means that there is a shift in the focus of teaching from knowledge as a product to knowing as a process. Teachers are trained to recognize the importance of the prior knowledge in students’ learning, recognizing that students are not blank slates or empty vessels waiting to be filled with knowledge. Instead, students are seen as bringing with them a rich array of prior experiences, knowledge, and beliefs that they use in constructing new understandings. This approach engages and empowers the learner by valuing the part they play in creating meaning and participating actively in their learning rather than being a passive recipient of information.
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INQUIRY CONSTRUCTIVISM
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE
WORLD SCHOOL
I
SHCMC is a fully authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. Our approach to education is student-centered, following an inquiry-based interdisciplinary curriculum. Our curriculum is broad based and academically rigorous. We incorporate the best practices in education and constantly improve and update our programs to develop our students into independent thinking global citizens. What is an IB World School? The IB offers a comprehensive, inquiry-based approach to teaching and learning and provides an internationally-designed model for concurrency in learning for mobile and transient students. The program develops the intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills needed to live, learn and work in a rapidly globalizing world. There are more than 1,000,000 IB students at 3,485 schools in 143 countries. An IB program is unique because of its academic and personal rigor, challenging students to excel in their studies and in their personal growth. Each program includes a curriculum and pedagogy plus student assessment appropriate to the age range. Authorization to become an IB World School is an intensive process that typically takes two or more years and includes site visits by an IB team from other schools who have been authorized to undertake regular evaluations.
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INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE
ISHCMC utilizes the flexibility of the International Baccalaureate program to encourage an inclusive, broad and balanced approach to learning through inquiry and exploration.
EDUCATION SPECIALISTS
ISHCMC FACULTY
E
ducation is probably the most important gift that a parent can provide for their children. ISHCMC is dedicated to providing the highest quality teaching staff from around the world to meet the needs of its students. We believe that everyone in the ISHCMC community should be life-long learners. ISHCMC teachers are encouraged to see themselves on the pathway to mastery and are supported through regular meetings and professional growth opportunities to reflect upon, develop and share their teaching practices. Through these activities we expect the teaching and learning at ISHCMC to be progressive and encompassing the latest in pedagogical research. To be successful, ISHCMC students are trained from Early Explorers upwards to ask questions about their learning; to explore and assess what they know; to reflect and discuss their understandings and subsequently to create deeper understandings and more knowledge. Hence, the role of the teacher changes from provider of information, to facilitator of learning through detailed planning and targeted activities. This transforms the classroom from being passive and quiet to a busy, active, problem solving environment where students are taught to use strategies and techniques that allow them to take control of their own learning. We recruit teachers who have proven track records at their previous schools and know how to energize, engage and empower students in their classroom. ISHCMC teachers are well qualified, experienced, care about their students and build positive relationships to ensure students reach their full potential. Many of our teachers have advanced degrees and all of our teachers are committed to ongoing professional growth and development.
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EDUCATION SPECIALISTS
Joseph Addison 17th Century Poet
DIVERSITY
CELEBRATION OF CULTURES
G
one are the days where most people grew up in their hometowns, got a job, raised their family and stayed there forever. In today’s global society, diversity in education becomes an essential element to ensuring a student’s future success in life. In this changing world, we must all understand and respect cultural differences so that we have the ability to relate to people from all over the world. At ISHCMC, we have a rich and culturally diverse school community. Our students, faculty and staff come from over 45 nations around the world. Our students have a unique opportunity, from a young age, to learn to be comfortable with individuals of all different backgrounds and cultures. Cultural diversity in a school environment helps to promote creative, flexible and “out of the box” thinking. When students who see things from different vantage points come together, they are able to learn from each other, expand their views and consider different approaches and options. An international education from a truly international school offers more to your child than academics. It gives them the social skills and understanding of how to maneuver and be successful in our global society.
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EARLY EXPLORERS
EE2-EE4
E
arly Explorers at ISHCMC participate in the IB Primary Years Program (PYP) which provides a holistic education and promotes social, physical, cognitive, creative and emotional development for all of our young learners. Students experience a culturally diverse setting where a planned balance of play, teacher-initiated and child-directed inquiries and challenges stimulate their learning in a nurturing environment. We understand that learning is a life-long process and that students develop at different rates. Readiness and receptiveness to learning varies within individuals. Our highly experienced teachers aim to instill a love of learning in each child so that it is seen as a desirable, enjoyable activity that will continue naturally long after formal education is finished. Our environment is one of safety and security. We value each child’s selfesteem and self-worth; we focus on the positives and encourage the development of independence, responsibility and confidence. We believe a positive learning environment is supported through respect between students, teachers and families. All activities are designed to enable students to become inquisitive, communicative and confident young learners. We develop our students’ confidence in communicating ideas to others through developmentally appropriate activities in speaking, listening, reading and writing. Through years of experience, we know that play is a powerful tool for learning. Types of play in Early Explorers include exploratory, manipulative, constructive, physical, creative, games and imagery. Play activities encourage exploration and experimentation, spark curiosity and imagination, and build children’s abilities to solve problems. Our teachers also facilitate opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration. This exploration helps children to develop their fine and gross motor skills and improve social interaction.
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EARLY EXPLORERS
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Our environment is one of safety and security. We value each child’s self-esteem and self-worth; we focus on the positives and encourage the development of independence, responsibility and confidence. We believe a positive learning environment is supported through respect between students, teachers and families.
Kurtis Peterson, Primary Principal
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PRIMARY YEARS
GRADES KG-5
H
ow we end up feeling about school and learning is often framed by our experiences in Grades KG – 5. ISHCMC recognizes the importance of these years in forming the foundations for intellectual growth and the development of the whole child. Through the IB Primary Years Program (PYP), we make learning relevant and meaningful to students. We build upon previous educational experience, continuing an inquiry-based, integrated curriculum which focuses on the child as a learner. In our classrooms our students learn how to learn. It is the students who ask the questions, explore, assess what they know, and what they want to find out. We use engaging provocations across all disciplines to trigger the students’ curiosities about the world and how it functions. Walking around our school, you’ll notice that the learning at ISHCMC is dynamic, exciting, relevant and conceptually driven. The IB PYP classroom is student centered and lends itself naturally to promoting self-reflection, understanding diverse perspectives and pushing learners to make their own connections between our ISHCMC curriculum and the world around them. It is designed to produce students who are more internationally minded and participate fully in the world they will enter as adults. Students are encouraged and taught to be independent learners and critical thinkers. Through their inquiries students learn how to make choices, to take socially responsible action, to flourish as life-long inquirers, researchers, supporters, advocates, artists and presenters both individually and as part of our collaborative community. Each child’s achievements are continually assessed at ISHCMC. Teachers use a variety of assessment techniques ranging from standardized testing to student portfolios and classroom observation. We also focus on attitudes, learning skills, social relationships and effort when looking at the overall development of the child and communicating with parents.
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PRIMARY YEARS
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ISHCMC is a very warm and welcoming place where children love coming to school and are happy and comfortable there.
Rebecca Taylor, Parent
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MIDDLE YEARS
GRADES 6-10 A
s adolescence begins, students move to the IB Middle Years Program (MYP). As we know this can be a challenging period for a child’s intellectual, social, emotional and physical development. ISHCMC uses a curriculum framework, the MYP, which has used neuroscience and educational research to underpin its guiding principles, to guide students through this period in their life and to keep them engaged with their learning. Through the MYP, we provide a balanced education within a positive, stimulating environment, so that each child can learn and grow to his or her full potential. The MYP starts to develop an understanding of the rigorous learning objectives for each of the eight subject areas while stressing the need for an interdisciplinary approach that links learning to other subjects. Students are encouraged to see the world through inter-connected concepts that lead to a deeper thinking and enduring understanding that can be applied throughout their lives. Our program engages students in creative, critical and reflective thinking and it empowers young people for a lifetime of learning, both independently and in collaboration with others. As we know 11-15 year olds can become bored very quickly if they feel what they are learning is not applicable to their world. One of the great strengths of our MYP is its emphasis on making real world connections that adolescents can identify with as part of their lives. This in no way diminishes the academic rigor of the MYP but rather enhances its ability to provide learning opportunities that will be remembered long into the future. Learning is differentiated, and all students are encouraged to grow no matter what their current level of learning. There is a focus on learning how to learn, along with the development of flexible thinking that prepares students to evaluate information critically and apply knowledge in complex, unfamiliar situations making it the ideal preparation for the IB Diploma Program (DP).
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MIDDLE YEARS
“
ISHCMC offers a well-structured IB program within a diverse cultural environment, where our children can develop the foundations for their academic, physical and social development. We have been at ISHCMC for four years now and have been impressed with the high quality teachers and care for the whole child.
Danielle Brenac, Parent
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PREPARATION FOR UNIVERSITY
IB DIPLOMA
B
y the time students reach Grade 11 they are starting to look beyond school to university and there is no better preparation for this transition than the IB Diploma Program (IB DP). The IB DP is recognized by 2,500 universities in 75 countries worldwide because of the quality of students it produces and the academic breadth and rigor of its curriculum. Through the IB DP we continue to focus on the all-round growth of our individual students through a complex system of goal setting, assessment data and teacher feedback. We encourage our Diploma students to have balance in their lives and all of them must participate in activities that enable them to demonstrate creativity, activity and service. From years of experience we have found that our Diploma students are extremely well prepared for university because they are independent learners who are able to cope with heavy workloads and the pressure of deadlines. Research shows that IB DP students are more likely to persist through college, have better time management skills and a more positive outlook about their future success than their peers. Through extended pieces of writing, IB DP students have an understanding and appreciation of research, communication and presentation skills that are not present in many other high school students. The IB Diploma focuses students on higher order thinking skills that enable them to be critical and creative problem solvers. ISHCMC Diploma students are ready and equipped to debate real world issues from an international perspective and to provide leadership and support in their local and global communities. IB DP students are encouraged to think deeply, synthesize information and then draw their own conclusions. These skills are not only important for their lives at school and university but as adults in the global workplace.
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PREPARATION FOR UNIVERSITY
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Throughout my IB at ISHCMC, I have found the teachers to be supportive, approachable and accommodating. I will miss the teachers and friends after graduating – they never fail to bring a smile to my face.
Louis Riesterer, IB DP Student
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UNIVERSITY BOUND 26
UNIVERSITY BOUND
ISHCMC UNIVERSITIES AT A GLANCE The following is a list of some of the top universities ISHCMC graduates been been accepted to in the last five years.
Ivy League Schools Dartmouth Cornell Harvard Yale Columbia University of Pennsylvania (PENN) Brown USA Flagship Universities University of California, Berkeley (CAL) University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) University of California, San Diego University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Michigan, Ann Arbor University of Texas, Austin University of Wisconsin, Madison University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill University of Washington University of Virginia Pennsylvania State University Other American Universities Stanford University Johns Hopkins University Duke University Northwestern University New York University Boston University Purdue University Carnegie Mellon University Emory University University of Southern California
University of Rochester Tufts University Boston College Williams College Technology Institutes MIT-Massachussetts Institute of Technology Georgia Institute of Technology Texas A & M University Hong Kong University of Science & Technology Delft University of Technology KAIST-Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology RMIT-Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology Art Institutes RISD-Rhode Island School of Design Parsons, New School for Design Pratt Institute Canada University of British Columbia University of Toronto McGill University Asia University of Hong Kong Seoul National University Chinese University of Hong Kong National Taiwan University National Tsing Hua University- Taiwan Yonsei University-South Korea
Korea University SKKU-Sungkyunkwan UniversitySouth Korea Thammasatt University (Thailand) Sophia University-Japan Temple University-Japan Vietnam National University Australia The Australian National University The University of Melbourne The University of Sydney The University of Queensland Monash University University of Auckland Europe & United Kingdom Erasmus University, Rotterdam University of Amsterdam Utrecht University-Netherlands UCL-University College London Kings College London University of Edinburgh University of Bristol University of Manchester University of Glasgow University of Warwick University of Birmingham University of Sheffield LSE London School of Economics University of Nottingham St. Andrews University Durham University University of Southhampton Queen Mary University of London
IB RESULTS “From a survey of 150 universities, IB students were favored over students from a country curriculum background due to the breadth of curriculum, development of critical thinking, time management skills and communication skills”..
Education Policy Improvement Center (EPIC)
42 points
EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION
ACADEMIC RESULTS
T
he IB program at ISHCMC develops the whole child with an underlying strong academic program. Through parent-teacher conferences, online academic reporting and regular testing, teachers are able to support students on a one-to-one basis with individualized learning plans and goals. Personalized feedback that is available online is a great resource for our parents to understand the IB curriculum but to also understand how they can support their child outside of the classroom. These approaches consist of different methods to understand where each student is at and how they can be supported to achieve their potential.
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EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION
29.8
32 points
points
2013 World average
2014 ISHCMC average
2014 ISHCMC’s highest score
ISHCMC has been successfully graduating students with an IB Diploma since 1999. ISHCMC is an IB World School that holds to the philosophy of being a fully inclusive school that is not academically selective as to which students will sit for the IB Diploma. All students entering and completing Grade 11 and Grade 12 at ISHCMC have the opportunity to achieve the full IB Diploma and all student results are published. Our graduates have annually achieved above world average scores since 1999.
MAP TESTS READING
MATHEMATICS Reading
The Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) test is a computerized adaptive test which helps teachers, parents, and administrators improve learning for all students and make informed decisions to promote a child’s academic growth. MAP testing takes place twice a year at ISHCMC for all students from Grade 3-10 and measures student growth in reading and mathematics. MAP test results allow us to individualize our student learning plans and to track their academic progress within the school year. ISHCMC’s average scores are consistently higher at every grade level than the average scores at U.S. schools and other international schools worldwide.
MEASURING ACADEMIC SUCCESS
SECONDARY CAT4 TESTING The Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT4) is a suite of tests developed to support schools in understanding students’ abilities and likely academic potential.
120
These tests incorporate theory and practice resulting in a more realistic assessment of each students abiliity.
World Average 100
85 *The Standard Age Score (SAS) is based on the student’s raw score which has been adjusted for age and placed on a scale that makes a comparison with a nationally representative sample of students of the same age across the UK. The average score is 100.
A SPORTING LIFE
HOME OF THE RHINOS A
t ISHCMC, we understand that to be academically able, our students must be physically fit. Participating in sports gives children the outlet they need to develop physically and teaches them important life lessons about teamwork, perseverance, risk-taking, integrity and sportsmanship. ISHCMC Stingrays A competitive swim team for students in Grades 1-12 with over 120 students who regularly compete locally and internationally. MRISA The Mekong River International Schools Association (MRISA) promotes inter-school activities and tournaments for students in the Secondary School including basketball, volleyball and football competitions and cultural exchanges and leadership conferences. PTO Saturday Sports This is led by the school’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) with a group of dedicated volunteers coaching sports and providing our students with the opportunity to play different sports and learn new skills.
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A SPORTING LIFE
EDUCATION OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM
GLOBAL LEARNING
N
ot all lessons can, or should, be taught in a classroom. Research shows that in order for children’s brains to fully develop, it is essential that they have multisensory interactions with the real world outside of the classroom. Students need opportunities to step away from their computers and experience nature first-hand. These experiences allow them to be placed safely in situations where they need to think through the consequences of difficult tasks. To climb, walk and connect with the natural environment in a setting which is foreign, and outside their comfort zone, will create the best possible opportunity to develop their mind and body. Education must be linked with young people developing self-confidence and self-reliance. Time spent learning in nature significantly helps to develop both of these skills. This new found independence leads to better decision making, whether that be outdoors, on the sporting field or in business. At ISHCMC, we understand that our students must be challenged physically and that a much deeper connection is made by doing something than by simply learning about it in class.
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EDUCATION OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM
Challeng
Inquire
nge
Explore
Adventure
THE ARTS
CULTIVATING CREATIVITY
I
nvolvement with the arts is associated with academic gain across many areas including cognitive ability and critical thinking. Arts programs also work to develop skills of creativity and expression. To understand information and then to have the ability to creatively think of new ideas and solutions helps individuals to succeed in business as well as in life. The arts program at ISHCMC plays an important part in both our curriculum and student life. All students create artwork for our school-wide exhibition and there are opportunities for students to join our choir, bands, orchestra or participate in school productions. Our arts program allows students to develop their creativity and follow their passions while also building their confidence and maturity in preparation for higher learning and a richer, fuller life.
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THE ARTS
Creativity
is the process of having original ideas that have value. It is a process; it’s not random. Sir Kenneth Robinson
International Education Advisor
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM
T
oday’s students love technology and are frankly, usually much more adept at using the tools of technology than most adults! They are experts at finding information and actively seek out opportunities to use technology whenever they can.
At ISHCMC, we understand that technology is important but only when it adds value in the classroom. We use our students’ natural enthusiasm for technology to keep them engaged in the classroom and to drive them to take control of their learning. By developing pedagogically-driven uses of technology, our students not only benefit academically, but are much more tech-savvy and are better prepared for the future. All students in our early years programs have access to tablets in the classroom. We have a 1:1 iPad program in Grades 3 and 4 and a 1:1 laptop program from Grade 5 to graduation. We also help our students prepare for technology use in the real world through a school wide e-safety program using the Common Sense Media curriculum. Subjects covered include: general internet safety, good digital citizenship, dealing with distractions and the best uses for technology as an educational tool.
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LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
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ISHCMC students acquire transferable technology skills that will guide them into the future. These skills are integrated into fun and exciting projects to engage, to excite and to empower the students.
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Frank Hua, IT Integration Coordinator & Design Teacher
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE TO OTHERS A
t ISHCMC, we understand that with privilege comes responsibility. Our students have opportunities in all grade levels to give back to Vietnam and to their communities. Most of our programs are student-led and empower our young people to witness first-hand the difference they can make in someone’s life. CAS Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) is at the heart of our school and is an essential element in every student’s IB experience. Students become involved in a range of activities alongside their academic studies throughout the Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programs. The three strands of CAS, which are often interwoven with particular activities, are characterized as follows: • Creativity: Arts and other experiences that involve and develop creative thinking skills. • Activity: Physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle. • Service: An unpaid and voluntary contribution that has a learning benefit for the student.
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COMMUNITY SERVICE
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
THE PURSUIT OF PASSION
T
he goal of the ASA program is to offer students the opportunity to participate in educational, cultural, recreational, and community service extra-curricular activities that will inspire them and give them opportunity to explore their talents while developing new skills. These activities are run by faculty or external specialists and include sports, clubs and performing arts and are an essential part of our students’ educational experience at ISHCMC.
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AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
GOOD EATS
NUTRITION AND HEALTH
L
earning healthy eating habits at a young age reaps benefits for a lifetime. At ISHCMC we understand that good nutrition and a balanced diet affect motivation and concentration levels. We are committed to energizing our students by providing healthy, balanced and nutritious dishes, handcrafted with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. ISHCMC has partnered with Chef Gabriel Boyer to create a varied and exciting menu to cater for the tastes and needs of our diverse community. Chef Boyer, who has previously worked at two different Michelin-starred restaurants, has taken on the challenge of serving up as many as 1000 meals in an hour to possibly the most demanding set of customers he has faced so far in his career. Dishes have to be appealing, well-balanced and most importantly tasty! ISHCMC students can choose from a daily option of Asian or Western hot gourmet meals, a themed salad bar, a soup counter serving traditional Asian soups, or a made-to-order sandwich bar. We provide students with a varied daily selection enabling them to make their own good choices. The school also offers a breakfast bar with a selection of yogurts, fruit, granola and cereals. Healthy snack options, smoothies and natural fruit juices are available during break times and after school. All snacks are baked with wholemeal flour, oats and grains and use brown sugar or natural sweeteners. Our canteen is nut, shellfish and soda/soft drink free.
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GOOD EATS
“
It’s a very proud moment when a student chooses to add a salad to their school lunch. We are helping the students at ISHCMC to make good decisions and establish healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
Chef Gabriel Boyer
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MINDFULNESS PRACTICE
10 POINT INCREASE IN IQ T
he ability to quiet your mind and to focus all of your energy on the task at hand is an incredibly powerful tool in life. At ISHCMC, we recognize that today’s students are busier than ever and life doesn’t slow down after school is finished. The latest research shows that daily participation in mindfulness exercises can raise a student’s IQ scores by as much as 10 points. This is why, at ISHCMC, we incorporate mindfulness into our curriculum and every ISHCMC student participates in mindfulness exercises every day. The benefits of this daily mindfulness training are that our students learn more effectively and think more clearly. They feel more balanced and are able to recognize and handle their emotions better, while skillfully responding to positive and negative situations. It has been proven through studies on the brain that mindfulness practice reliably improves the quality of thought, feeling and concern for others. This not only helps our students to get better academic results now but also helps to give them the skills they need to better manage their busy futures and lead happier lives.
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MINDFULNESS PRACTICE
Improvement in mental processing after 6 weeks of mindfulness training
14 15 16 13
14 15 16
17
13
18 19
12 11 10
18 19
12 11
20
10
Before (Score: 12.9)
17
20
After (Score: 18.8)
The same study also found significant gains for the 30 participants in the following indicators of mental ability.
Before
After
Infomation Processing Speed and Visual Motor Coordination
6.9
Freedom from Distractabilty
13.2 17.5
Visual Short-term Memory and Sequencing Ability
6.0
8.2
Arithetic/Number Ability and Short-term Memory
6.2
8.3
Source: Ruth Olmstead, PhD
10.6
PARENT LIFE
A WARM & WELCOMING COMMUNITY
I
SHCMC is fortunate to attract an international student body which truly appreciates the uniqueness of other cultures. This enables us to learn from one another and form strong ties and friendships, as we work together to make the school year productive and memorable for all.
PTO The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) actively participates in school life and aims to foster a closer relationship between parents and teachers. The PTO is committed to supporting the teachers, parents and students through social and educational activities and to providing a forum for the exchange of ideas of its members within the ISHCMC community. The PTO gives all parents an opportunity to socialize and make new friends, an important factor when transitioning into a new school. Made up of both elected parent representatives and faculty representatives, the PTO supports the school in many ways and organizes three whole school major events every year, Celebration of Cultures, International Festival and the Family Fun Night. Cultural Representatives Within the PTO structure, parents also volunteer their time to act as Cultural Representatives, liaising between the school and members of their particular national or cultural group represented at ISHCMC. These parents are a valuable resource offering advice regarding the school as well as raising awareness of national and cultural diversity within our school community. Each country’s Cultural Representative informally participates in the orientation of new parents and provides information on daily school life, the local community and general advice on settling into Ho Chi Minh City. Rhino Hut The Rhino Hut is a PTO run booster club that sells ISHCMC Rhino themed clothing and accessories to build school spirit. Colorful tee-shirts, hoodies, caps and travel bags are not only useful but provide our students with a sense of identity when they are travelling or representing ISHCMC.
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PARENT LIFE
Blue Polo Shirt and Grey Shorts
OUR UNIFORM
CREATING A STRONG IDENTITY A
ll ISHCMC students wear an ISHCMC uniform to school each day. This helps to create a positive learning environment and to minimize distractions in the classroom.
The ISHCMC uniform was recently redesigned with student and parent input. It consists of a blue or white polo shirt with an embroidered school logo, plaid or grey bottoms and a dry-fit PE uniform. A comfortable sweater is also available. Our youngest students wear a dry-fit, breathable uniform all day, allowing for movement and to help keep them dry while they play. Each student is given a uniform starter pack at the start of each school year. Additional uniforms may be purchased in the Uniform Shop on campus.
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OUR UNIFORM
Plaid Shorts
Tote Bag
Sports Bag
White Polo Shirt
Sweater Grey Skirt
Plaid Skirt
PE Kit and School Hat
Early Explorers Uniform
OUR CITY
LIVING IN HO CHI MINH CITY 50
OUR CITY
EATING Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city when it comes to eating. From fine dining to street carts, the choice is varied. With people from many different nationalities living and working in HCMC the food scene has grown to reflect this.
TRANSPORT Improvements to the public transport system are underway in Ho Chi Minh City with a new metro line currently being constructed. In the meantime, taxis are cheap and plentiful and an easy way to get around the city. Many people also ride motorbikes or cycle locally.
SHOPPING With the low cost of living, shopping is great in Ho Chi Minh City! The city features everything from high-end brand stores to local surplus markets. Along with traditional handicrafts such as lacquer, ceramics and hand embroidery, Vietnam also has an emerging art and design scene with some new wonderful products being created.
GETAWAYS Vietnam’s year round warm climate gives residents many opportunities to enjoy its lovely beaches such as Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc and nearby Mui Ne. Cultural highlights include the historic capital Hue, iconic Hoi An and the luscious paddy fields of mountainous Sa Pa. A visit to the capital Ha Noi is a must to explore the more traditional side of Vietnam.
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he An Phu area in District 2, where ISHCMC is located, is known as HCMC’s main “expat area” because of its immense popularity with the expatriate community. It is a very peaceful, warm and familyfriendly area that is just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. Along Thao Dien Street, high terra-cotta villa rooftops peek from behind staggered palm trees. Thao Dien is actually much more of a boulevard than a street and is lined with gourmet shops, organic stores, fresh bakeries, butchers and many different types of restaurants. Daily, residents can be seen walking and cycling the streets and enjoying the village environment and strong community spirit of the An Phu neighborhood. Many of our ISHCMC families walk, bike or take the two-minute drive to school over the small bridge that connects ISHCMC to the An Phu neighborhood.
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OUR NEIGHBORHOOD
UK
TESTIMONIALS
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
Being all on one campus also is a bonus as the older students will interact with the younger ones, which to us was a preferable situation. The older students have always been involved in helping out the younger ones whether it’s sports, cultural activities or general day-to-day activities. The sports and arts departments have been very successful and varied, they have great support from parents which allows them to be more adventurous. There is a very active PTO who give great support to new parents and their children. Lynne McDonnell
VIETNAM I chose to send my children to an international school to develop their communication skills in English, give them a better education environment, encourage and develop their creativity to be ready to study abroad. ISHCMC has the full IB Program, the IB Diploma is well recognized by top universities, it is important to us that our children have access to high-ranking universities.
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TESTIMONIALS
Lam Thi Thanh Thuy
NEW ZEALAND
JAPAN There are a wide range of sports and cultural activities available. Haruka has participated in MRISA (Mekong River International School Association) football, volleyball, gymnastics, and track and field competitions. Jun is part of Stingrays, the school’s swimming team; and he competes in track and field.
ISHCMC provides a learning environment that is culturally diverse, with small class sizes. Nationality caps ensure that this diversity is maintained. ISHCMC prides itself on employing experienced teachers who take the time to know our children and nurture and value them.
Our kids are involved with many different aspects of school life. They love sports and have been able to participate in local and international soccer, basketball, track and field and swimming competitions. They have been in drama productions and part of a cultural arts exchange. Emily and Ben also work with a group to fundraise for heart operations for underprivileged children.
Makiko Yamashita
USA ISHCMC life is very interactive for the parents and the kids. There is a strong sense of community and openness at ISHCMC. The teachers and staff are very willing to meet with parents, and parents can participate in the classroom in junior and elementary school. Whole school events and Saturday Sports programs where parents and kids work alongside each other help instill a sense of pride in our school and enhance the family experience here in HCMC. We love our kids learning alongside and developing friendships with children from all over the world under the guidance of experienced, caring teachers. Ginny Condra
Rebecca Taylor
TAIWAN We realize how ISHCMC is different from other schools that we know. This school breaks my traditional image of how a school is like. ISHCMC fosters every student’s individual ability, talents and interests by providing not only academic study but also activities, field trips and sports teams and so on. Since every child is different, they won’t put everyone in one standard, therefore, in this school you won’t see that children are being compared or compete to the marks they get.
Elisa Wu
COGNITA SCHOOLS GROUP
A GLOBAL NETWORK
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SHCMC is part of Cognita, a world leading international schools group, currently encompassing over 60 schools across 3 continents. Today, you will find Cognita schools in Brazil, Chile, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, the UK and Vietnam. The group employs some 4,000 teaching and support staff in the care and education of around 27,500 pupils from the age of 1 to 18 years. Since launching in 2004, Cognita has successfully built a group of outstanding schools where no two are the same. Each Cognita school retains its own unique ethos and offers a curriculum and range of services tailored to meet the needs of local parents. Wherever you visit a Cognita school, you will find empowered school leaders, committed teachers and pupils who are enthusiastic learners. What to expect from a Cognita School: • We promote and preserve the unique character and identity of each school. • We foster best practice in every aspect of our schools’ provision. • We support and monitor teacher performance, investing in regular and appropriate staff training and development. • We strive to challenge all children to realize their full potential in all fields of endeavor. • We encourage open and effective communication between our schools and our parents. • We seek to engage and work with our parents at every available opportunity.
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COGNITA SCHOOLS GROUP
UK 43
27,500 Students 4,000 Teachers and Support Staff
Spain 4
Thailand 3
Singapore 2
Brazil 2 Chile 9
Vietnam 3
Step 1 ADMISSIONS
JOIN US
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he ISHCMC Admissions office is open throughout the year and is looking forward to hearing from you. We offer rolling admissions, allowing entry throughout the school year as long as space is available. We aim to make the admissions process a pleasant, informative and straightforward experience. To inquire about the availability of places, or for more information about anything covered in this brochure, please contact the Admissions Department at admissions@ishcmc.edu.vn or phone us on +84 (8) 3898 9100 ext. 502, 504 or 507.
Required documentation: • Application form • Application fee • Scan of child’s passport or birth certificate • Recent digital passport photo • Two years’ previous school records, transcripts and test reports. Notarized English translation of these documents is required (where applicable). • Letter of recommendation from current teacher. • Completed ISHCMC medical report with immunization history record. 58
JOIN US
APPLY Prospective students who wish to apply can begin the process by submitting a completed Application Form online on our website at www.ishcmc.com. If a place exists for the student at that time, the Admissions office will ask for the admission fee to be paid, while the parent completes the rest of the required admission documentation.
Step 2
REVIEW Once all required documents have been submitted and the application fee has been received, the Admissions office will review the application file and submit it to the relevant Principal (Primary or Secondary) for academic acceptance. More information may be requested from the applicant, the previous school or an appointment for an interview may be required by the Principal. Upon receipt of all required documentation, we will be able to advise acceptance within a few days.
Step 3
ACCEPTANCE An official acceptance letter will be sent confirming the grade the student will enter, and advising parents of the orientation date and start date. Information about uniforms, stationery and other matters will also be provided. The ISHCMC Medical Report with the immunization history record will need to be submitted prior to attendance.
International School Ho Chi Minh City 28 Vo Truong Toan Street, Anh Phu Ward, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Tel: +84 (8) 3898-9100 Fax: +84 (8) 3898-9382 Email: admissions@ishcmc.edu.vn www.ishcmc.com
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