NISP - Prospectus 2014

Page 1


Message from the Principal I am really excited to share with you all the potential opportunities that Nexus International School will provide your child/ren as we develop as a school that embraces the diversity of our community and challenges the minds of our students. A member of Taylor’s Education Group (TEG), NISP has the backing of a company that is well known for educational excellence over more than 60 years. NISP is the first international boarding school in Putrajaya, set in the heart of the diplomatic enclave. The second Nexus is located in Singapore. Close to the city of Kuala Lumpur we are privileged to have a beautiful, spacious, secure campus that enables our children to experience learning both inside and outside of the classroom. Our highly qualified and experienced teachers have been carefully selected to deliver well-balanced curricula based on the best teaching standards and practices used around the world. At Nexus International School, we offer practical, experiential learning for learners from early years all the way to pre-university levels. Our promise is to treat everyone as gifted and talented individuals and to foster those talents and gifts through careful mentorship and guidance that is based on respect for all by providing rich learning tasks and personalised feedback that will inform further learning. We do this in an environment that allows learners’ talents to flourish; one that is innovative, progressive and grounded in trust, compassion and respect. Information Communication Technology (ICT) is an integral part of the teaching and learning at Nexus International School. We use the latest ICT tools to teach learners to be independent learners and leaders in the global community. We also provide a wide range of activities and experiences that will not only prepare our children for the future but also make their school life more enjoyable and rewarding. We are recognised as a “Mastering” school for the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), authorised for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). We are also a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS), an approved Assessment and Qualification Alliance (AQA) and Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) Centre.


Message from the Principal I am really excited to share with you all the potential opportunities that Nexus International School will provide your child/ren as we develop as a school that embraces the diversity of our community and challenges the minds of our students. A member of Taylor’s Education Group (TEG), NISP has the backing of a company that is well known for educational excellence over more than 60 years. NISP is the first international boarding school in Putrajaya, set in the heart of the diplomatic enclave. The second Nexus is located in Singapore. Close to the city of Kuala Lumpur we are privileged to have a beautiful, spacious, secure campus that enables our children to experience learning both inside and outside of the classroom. Our highly qualified and experienced teachers have been carefully selected to deliver well-balanced curricula based on the best teaching standards and practices used around the world. At Nexus International School, we offer practical, experiential learning for learners from early years all the way to pre-university levels. Our promise is to treat everyone as gifted and talented individuals and to foster those talents and gifts through careful mentorship and guidance that is based on respect for all by providing rich learning tasks and personalised feedback that will inform further learning. We do this in an environment that allows learners’ talents to flourish; one that is innovative, progressive and grounded in trust, compassion and respect. Information Communication Technology (ICT) is an integral part of the teaching and learning at Nexus International School. We use the latest ICT tools to teach learners to be independent learners and leaders in the global community. We also provide a wide range of activities and experiences that will not only prepare our children for the future but also make their school life more enjoyable and rewarding. We are recognised as a “Mastering” school for the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), authorised for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). We are also a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS), an approved Assessment and Qualification Alliance (AQA) and Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) Centre.


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Philosophy 5 World Class Facilities 6 Student Life 8 Student Council 8 International Mindedness 9 Holistic Education 9 Trips & Visits 10 The Arts 11 Technology & Learning 12 Personalised Learning 14 The Curriculum 15 The International Primary Curriculum 16 The Primary School 18 Early Years 20

Milepost 1 22 Milepost 2 24 Milepost 3 26 The Secondary School 28 Middle School Programme 30 Intl. General Certificate of Secondary Education 32 Intl. Baccalaureate Diploma Programme 34 Co-curricular Activities 36 Boarding House 36 Careers 37 Higher Education Destinations 37 Guidance Counsellor 38 Student Support Services 39 Map 40

2 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 3


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Philosophy 5 World Class Facilities 6 Student Life 8 Student Council 8 International Mindedness 9 Holistic Education 9 Trips & Visits 10 The Arts 11 Technology & Learning 12 Personalised Learning 14 The Curriculum 15 The International Primary Curriculum 16 The Primary School 18 Early Years 20

Milepost 1 22 Milepost 2 24 Milepost 3 26 The Secondary School 28 Middle School Programme 30 Intl. General Certificate of Secondary Education 32 Intl. Baccalaureate Diploma Programme 34 Co-curricular Activities 36 Boarding House 36 Careers 37 Higher Education Destinations 37 Guidance Counsellor 38 Student Support Services 39 Map 40

2 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 3


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

PHILOSOPHY With our motto “Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds” we aim to help children learn academically, socially, emotionally and physically – building on the philosophy that children will need a particular set of skills for life in the 21st Century. Yesterday we might have talked about creating “global citizens of tomorrow”. Today we would do well to recognise that our learners are already world citizens. In a more connected, more social world, where students have more choice and greater access to information, schools have to become more flexible and adaptive in order to meet the increasingly diverse needs of modern learners. Incorporating technology into a blend of creative hands-on activities and a thematic cross-curricular approach we provide a highly effective learning experience that involves the child, parent and teacher. The shift at NISP is toward a more personalised approach to learning. We strive to create in our school an inviting place, in which human respect and values are balanced against academic rigour, and one where learners are encouraged to realize their potential and to respect their own unique worth as well as that of others. Ours is an educational environment that prepares young people to be become internationally minded responsible citizens.

4 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 5


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

PHILOSOPHY With our motto “Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds” we aim to help children learn academically, socially, emotionally and physically – building on the philosophy that children will need a particular set of skills for life in the 21st Century. Yesterday we might have talked about creating “global citizens of tomorrow”. Today we would do well to recognise that our learners are already world citizens. In a more connected, more social world, where students have more choice and greater access to information, schools have to become more flexible and adaptive in order to meet the increasingly diverse needs of modern learners. Incorporating technology into a blend of creative hands-on activities and a thematic cross-curricular approach we provide a highly effective learning experience that involves the child, parent and teacher. The shift at NISP is toward a more personalised approach to learning. We strive to create in our school an inviting place, in which human respect and values are balanced against academic rigour, and one where learners are encouraged to realize their potential and to respect their own unique worth as well as that of others. Ours is an educational environment that prepares young people to be become internationally minded responsible citizens.

4 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 5


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

WORLD CLASS FACILITIES The vast premises house spacious learning facilities, as well as recreational facilities set amid lush greenery. These include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

6 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

Library 80 air-conditioned classrooms Instructional audio-visual facilities (LCD projector/sound system/electronic whiteboard) Theatre with seating capacity of up to 500 pax Art rooms Music rooms Drama & Dance studios Science laboratories Air conditioned sport hall An outdoor field / football pitch Tennis Courts Playgrounds Swimming pool (25-metre) Cafeteria Multi-purpose room Sound and film studio Health clinic with a full time registered nurse Counselling and career guidance rooms Uniform & book shop

www.nexus.edu.my | 7


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

WORLD CLASS FACILITIES The vast premises house spacious learning facilities, as well as recreational facilities set amid lush greenery. These include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

6 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

Library 80 air-conditioned classrooms Instructional audio-visual facilities (LCD projector/sound system/electronic whiteboard) Theatre with seating capacity of up to 500 pax Art rooms Music rooms Drama & Dance studios Science laboratories Air conditioned sport hall An outdoor field / football pitch Tennis Courts Playgrounds Swimming pool (25-metre) Cafeteria Multi-purpose room Sound and film studio Health clinic with a full time registered nurse Counselling and career guidance rooms Uniform & book shop

www.nexus.edu.my | 7


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

STUDENT LIFE The welfare of our learners is a high priority at NISP. We aim to develop respect for self and others, self-discipline, interdependence and a strong sense of community. We have a system of mentoring for any learners in Secondary who need additional guidance as well as a strong learning and language support team. Learners have weekly meetings with form teachers. A full time counsellor is available should any learner need to speak with her.

STUDENT COUNCIL The Student Council involves itself in many aspects of the growth of the school and allows students to take various positions ranging from leadership to coordination, allowing learners to develop a multitude of skills ranging from diplomacy to organisation. With regular weekly meetings and several major events where the Student Council works closely with the school, it provides learners with an excellent platform for development of knowledge that will serve them far into the future. The council has four sub-councils: sports, fund-raising, events and environmental. To be eligible for President of the student council, learners must be nominated by both teachers and learners. Nominated candidates will take part in a one week campaigning period during which they market themselves and garner votes. Furthermore all candidates take part in an assembly in which they make speeches and answer questions from teachers and learners on how they plan to affect positive change at Nexus. All secondary learners take part in voting which harnesses the use of technology.

INTERNATIONALLY MINDEDNESS “Understanding about ourselves as part of a global community and a respect for and celebration of diversity within that community” • • •

All Primary learners find out about their host country through Bahasa Integration and International Goals are identified in the IPC Curriculum All Secondary learners study a Global Perspectives course at IGCSE and theory of knowledge (TOK) at IBDP All Muslim children have Agama once a week and can attend Friday prayers.

At NISP we learn about and celebrate the festivals of each of the communities that make up 1 Malaysia (Hari Raya, Chinese New Year and Deepavali).

HOLISTIC EDUCATION While the classroom environment is undoubtedly a collaborative one, this spirit of co-operation - the importance of teamwork - becomes all the more pronounced when there is a collective goal - for example when you are part of a football team, or performing in a school play. Giving up something personal for the goals of the group is an important life skill - now and in later life when we have to go out and interact with the world and make a career for ourselves. Our Health and Physical Education (HPE) programme is a well-defined skills based progression of physical activities. It includes swimming for all levels. Many learners represent the school in team sports such as football, rugby, athletic and swimming and the school hosts several inter and intra-school events. Learning happens in many places and at many different times. Great emphasis is placed on experiences and learning opportunities outside of the classroom. There are opportunities for children to apply their learning beyond the classroom through various excursions and day visits, which are an essential part of our curriculum. We believe that these activities are not diversions from the taught curriculum; not something that children do after class simply to use up time; but rather, extensions of what goes on in the classroom.

8 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 9


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

STUDENT LIFE The welfare of our learners is a high priority at NISP. We aim to develop respect for self and others, self-discipline, interdependence and a strong sense of community. We have a system of mentoring for any learners in Secondary who need additional guidance as well as a strong learning and language support team. Learners have weekly meetings with form teachers. A full time counsellor is available should any learner need to speak with her.

STUDENT COUNCIL The Student Council involves itself in many aspects of the growth of the school and allows students to take various positions ranging from leadership to coordination, allowing learners to develop a multitude of skills ranging from diplomacy to organisation. With regular weekly meetings and several major events where the Student Council works closely with the school, it provides learners with an excellent platform for development of knowledge that will serve them far into the future. The council has four sub-councils: sports, fund-raising, events and environmental. To be eligible for President of the student council, learners must be nominated by both teachers and learners. Nominated candidates will take part in a one week campaigning period during which they market themselves and garner votes. Furthermore all candidates take part in an assembly in which they make speeches and answer questions from teachers and learners on how they plan to affect positive change at Nexus. All secondary learners take part in voting which harnesses the use of technology.

INTERNATIONALLY MINDEDNESS “Understanding about ourselves as part of a global community and a respect for and celebration of diversity within that community” • • •

All Primary learners find out about their host country through Bahasa Integration and International Goals are identified in the IPC Curriculum All Secondary learners study a Global Perspectives course at IGCSE and theory of knowledge (TOK) at IBDP All Muslim children have Agama once a week and can attend Friday prayers.

At NISP we learn about and celebrate the festivals of each of the communities that make up 1 Malaysia (Hari Raya, Chinese New Year and Deepavali).

HOLISTIC EDUCATION While the classroom environment is undoubtedly a collaborative one, this spirit of co-operation - the importance of teamwork - becomes all the more pronounced when there is a collective goal - for example when you are part of a football team, or performing in a school play. Giving up something personal for the goals of the group is an important life skill - now and in later life when we have to go out and interact with the world and make a career for ourselves. Our Health and Physical Education (HPE) programme is a well-defined skills based progression of physical activities. It includes swimming for all levels. Many learners represent the school in team sports such as football, rugby, athletic and swimming and the school hosts several inter and intra-school events. Learning happens in many places and at many different times. Great emphasis is placed on experiences and learning opportunities outside of the classroom. There are opportunities for children to apply their learning beyond the classroom through various excursions and day visits, which are an essential part of our curriculum. We believe that these activities are not diversions from the taught curriculum; not something that children do after class simply to use up time; but rather, extensions of what goes on in the classroom.

8 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 9


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

TRIPS & VISITS Primary School Trips have an important role in adding to our learners’ real life experiences. Our residential trip programme begins in Year 3 with a 2 day, 1 night stay in the school grounds. By Year 6 the learners enjoy a longer stay of 4 days, 3 nights in an Eco-resort just outside of Kuala Lumpur. There are many visits organised during the school year to enrich the learning within the curriculum. Often these act as an entry point, stimulates the learners interests; for example a visit to Beryl’s Chocolate Factory in Year 4 at the start of the ‘Chocolate Unit’ and a visit to Petrosains.

Secondary School To facilitate the provision of a broad and balanced curriculum, learners at all year levels take part in pre-planned fieldtrips or excursions. These trips include for example, visits to local museums, art galleries, theatre and musical productions. In addition, each year group undertakes one residential per year. These overnight trips are planned to enhance and support the curriculum and are a compulsory part of our learning environment. Experienced companies who specialise in outdoor education manage the trips with our teachers. The trips are designed to ensure that discovery and investigative learning takes place in a safe and risk free environment away from home. Our trips include visiting places within Malaysia, like Langkawi, Tioman Island, Ipoh and the Cameron Highlands. As part of the IB Diploma, our Year 12 learners take part in a CAS residential week. This trip promotes compassionate thinking and responsibility for our community. In the past, our learners have visited less developed parts of Malaysia, Sarawak and Sabah to assist with providing a service to help the local community. All these trips provide our learners with an opportunity for significant personal growth and development.

THE ARTS Performing and Creative Arts are an essential part of an all rounded education. They give learners a unique means of expression, capturing their passions and emotions, and allowing them to explore new ideas, subject matter, and cultures in a safe and fun environment. An education in the Arts not only enhances learners’ understanding of the world around them, but it also broadens their perspective on traditional academic subjects. It is our philosophy at Nexus that we give time in the curriculum and after school for Arts education not only for what it teaches learners about Arts, but for what it teaches us all about the world we live in. In Primary, learners have specialist Music teaching and in Secondary all learners have Music, Art and Drama lessons weekly. In addition we offer Film Studies from Year 10 onwards. We want all of our learners to be actively listening, participating and engaging through music. Nexus Music Department runs a comprehensive Instrumental Programme and employs 11 instrumental teachers. We also run many extracurricular clubs and offer the learners numerous musical performance opportunities throughout the year. There are also opportunities for learners in every year to perform in a variety of Drama activities and productions, including the Mile Post Productions, Y5 & 6 Lunchtime Drama Club, Learner-led Showcases and the School Production. We aim to develop team-work, self discipline, a sense of exploration and intellectual integrity through improvisation and performance. Through Drama, learners also reflect thoughtfully to link their practical work to wider issues facing society.

10 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 11


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

TRIPS & VISITS Primary School Trips have an important role in adding to our learners’ real life experiences. Our residential trip programme begins in Year 3 with a 2 day, 1 night stay in the school grounds. By Year 6 the learners enjoy a longer stay of 4 days, 3 nights in an Eco-resort just outside of Kuala Lumpur. There are many visits organised during the school year to enrich the learning within the curriculum. Often these act as an entry point, stimulates the learners interests; for example a visit to Beryl’s Chocolate Factory in Year 4 at the start of the ‘Chocolate Unit’ and a visit to Petrosains.

Secondary School To facilitate the provision of a broad and balanced curriculum, learners at all year levels take part in pre-planned fieldtrips or excursions. These trips include for example, visits to local museums, art galleries, theatre and musical productions. In addition, each year group undertakes one residential per year. These overnight trips are planned to enhance and support the curriculum and are a compulsory part of our learning environment. Experienced companies who specialise in outdoor education manage the trips with our teachers. The trips are designed to ensure that discovery and investigative learning takes place in a safe and risk free environment away from home. Our trips include visiting places within Malaysia, like Langkawi, Tioman Island, Ipoh and the Cameron Highlands. As part of the IB Diploma, our Year 12 learners take part in a CAS residential week. This trip promotes compassionate thinking and responsibility for our community. In the past, our learners have visited less developed parts of Malaysia, Sarawak and Sabah to assist with providing a service to help the local community. All these trips provide our learners with an opportunity for significant personal growth and development.

THE ARTS Performing and Creative Arts are an essential part of an all rounded education. They give learners a unique means of expression, capturing their passions and emotions, and allowing them to explore new ideas, subject matter, and cultures in a safe and fun environment. An education in the Arts not only enhances learners’ understanding of the world around them, but it also broadens their perspective on traditional academic subjects. It is our philosophy at Nexus that we give time in the curriculum and after school for Arts education not only for what it teaches learners about Arts, but for what it teaches us all about the world we live in. In Primary, learners have specialist Music teaching and in Secondary all learners have Music, Art and Drama lessons weekly. In addition we offer Film Studies from Year 10 onwards. We want all of our learners to be actively listening, participating and engaging through music. Nexus Music Department runs a comprehensive Instrumental Programme and employs 11 instrumental teachers. We also run many extracurricular clubs and offer the learners numerous musical performance opportunities throughout the year. There are also opportunities for learners in every year to perform in a variety of Drama activities and productions, including the Mile Post Productions, Y5 & 6 Lunchtime Drama Club, Learner-led Showcases and the School Production. We aim to develop team-work, self discipline, a sense of exploration and intellectual integrity through improvisation and performance. Through Drama, learners also reflect thoughtfully to link their practical work to wider issues facing society.

10 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 11


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

TECHNOLOGY & LEARNING

Learning Support Learning Support is provided throughout the school starting with the admissions process where applicable. Collaboration with the department supports differentiated planning to ensure that learners are included in the curriculum delivery.

Technology is transformative. Increasingly, research confirms that technology, when used effectively, can transform learning for the better. Nexus believes that pedagogically-driven technology use, when done properly, can transform learning. That’s why Nexus uses technology and why we have a 1:1 programme for our learners. Technology allows learners to have live conversations on their work, to collaborate and, arguably most importantly, allows teachers to transform teaching methodologies in a way that is engaging and valid for 21st century learners.

The Technology programme The school has a compulsory 1:1 laptop programme for learners in Year 5 through to Year 13. This means learners have the use of their own Apple MacBook laptop. Lower down the school, learners have access to both MacBooks and also iPads. Increasingly, we see iPads (or tablets) as a tool that can be utilised by learners to be both creators and consumers of digital content.

How do we ensure our programme is successful? At Nexus, along with many other leading schools, we have a dedicated team of digital integrators, alongside our technical support team. Our digital integrators are qualified ICT teachers who plan and deliver lessons and also ensure that our teaching staff are up to date and trained on the most cutting edge and effective digital pedagogies.

PERSONALISED LEARNING The Extended Language and Learning Department consists of six highly qualified specialists who provide support to learners who have English as an Additional Language (EAL) or require support for learning (LS). Support is provided to learners throughout the school from Early Years to Year 13.

English as an Additional Language In Primary, support is provided in regular classrooms and additional support for some learners is provided by small pull-out groups which focus on intensive development of vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing skills on entry to the school. The learners’ progress is closely monitored, meaning they will exit these pull-out classes once sufficient progress has been made. In Secondary, specialist staff support learning across all curriculum subjects by helping subject teachers plan to meet the needs of EAL learners in the class. This involves strategies for explicitly teaching new vocabulary and providing scaffolding so learners can fully access the curriculum. Separate EAL classes are also run alongside Languages to help develop the English skills of those learners who need it the most. These learners are identified through careful assessment and are provided with a well-structured language syllabus designed to build their academic literacy. In Years 10 and 11 EAL learners have the opportunity to take an internationally recognised Cambridge Exam for second language speakers.

Observations and assessments of referred learners determine the strategies and support provided. This may be by supporting the learners in small groups in the classroom or co-teaching. As we strongly subscribe to an inclusion model, limited support is provided outside the classroom. As an inclusive school, some of our learners require personal learning assistants. Our PLAs are hired by the parents but are recognised as members of staff and are supported through weekly meetings and training. As the school has grown, so has the need to develop an alternative curriculum for our PLA learners with additional learning needs. This will be a partially integrated curriculum that will give the learners an opportunity to access the mainstream curriculum in addition to a more individualised, practical programme that will better suit their needs. In addition to supporting learning, where applicable, some learners are invited to join the InterActive group to develop their social and communication skills. The objective of this programme is to nurture and encourage confidence in the learners as well as foster good communication skills. The department also works closely with the exams officer to ensure that learners who require alternative exams arrangements receive the appropriate provision. Partnership with parents is seen as in integral part of the support provided. Creating links between school and home. Establishing that link between home and school gives the learners consistency and security in their learning.

All teachers at Nexus International School have either earned a qualification in teaching English as an additional language or are trained by a qualified tutor and earn the Teaching English Students in Mainstream Classrooms (TESMC) qualification from the South Australian government.

12

12 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 13


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

TECHNOLOGY & LEARNING

Learning Support Learning Support is provided throughout the school starting with the admissions process where applicable. Collaboration with the department supports differentiated planning to ensure that learners are included in the curriculum delivery.

Technology is transformative. Increasingly, research confirms that technology, when used effectively, can transform learning for the better. Nexus believes that pedagogically-driven technology use, when done properly, can transform learning. That’s why Nexus uses technology and why we have a 1:1 programme for our learners. Technology allows learners to have live conversations on their work, to collaborate and, arguably most importantly, allows teachers to transform teaching methodologies in a way that is engaging and valid for 21st century learners.

The Technology programme The school has a compulsory 1:1 laptop programme for learners in Year 5 through to Year 13. This means learners have the use of their own Apple MacBook laptop. Lower down the school, learners have access to both MacBooks and also iPads. Increasingly, we see iPads (or tablets) as a tool that can be utilised by learners to be both creators and consumers of digital content.

How do we ensure our programme is successful? At Nexus, along with many other leading schools, we have a dedicated team of digital integrators, alongside our technical support team. Our digital integrators are qualified ICT teachers who plan and deliver lessons and also ensure that our teaching staff are up to date and trained on the most cutting edge and effective digital pedagogies.

PERSONALISED LEARNING The Extended Language and Learning Department consists of six highly qualified specialists who provide support to learners who have English as an Additional Language (EAL) or require support for learning (LS). Support is provided to learners throughout the school from Early Years to Year 13.

English as an Additional Language In Primary, support is provided in regular classrooms and additional support for some learners is provided by small pull-out groups which focus on intensive development of vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing skills on entry to the school. The learners’ progress is closely monitored, meaning they will exit these pull-out classes once sufficient progress has been made. In Secondary, specialist staff support learning across all curriculum subjects by helping subject teachers plan to meet the needs of EAL learners in the class. This involves strategies for explicitly teaching new vocabulary and providing scaffolding so learners can fully access the curriculum. Separate EAL classes are also run alongside Languages to help develop the English skills of those learners who need it the most. These learners are identified through careful assessment and are provided with a well-structured language syllabus designed to build their academic literacy. In Years 10 and 11 EAL learners have the opportunity to take an internationally recognised Cambridge Exam for second language speakers.

Observations and assessments of referred learners determine the strategies and support provided. This may be by supporting the learners in small groups in the classroom or co-teaching. As we strongly subscribe to an inclusion model, limited support is provided outside the classroom. As an inclusive school, some of our learners require personal learning assistants. Our PLAs are hired by the parents but are recognised as members of staff and are supported through weekly meetings and training. As the school has grown, so has the need to develop an alternative curriculum for our PLA learners with additional learning needs. This will be a partially integrated curriculum that will give the learners an opportunity to access the mainstream curriculum in addition to a more individualised, practical programme that will better suit their needs. In addition to supporting learning, where applicable, some learners are invited to join the InterActive group to develop their social and communication skills. The objective of this programme is to nurture and encourage confidence in the learners as well as foster good communication skills. The department also works closely with the exams officer to ensure that learners who require alternative exams arrangements receive the appropriate provision. Partnership with parents is seen as in integral part of the support provided. Creating links between school and home. Establishing that link between home and school gives the learners consistency and security in their learning.

All teachers at Nexus International School have either earned a qualification in teaching English as an additional language or are trained by a qualified tutor and earn the Teaching English Students in Mainstream Classrooms (TESMC) qualification from the South Australian government.

12

12 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 13
























______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

BOARDING HOUSE NISP provides boarding for boys and girls in Years 6-13 (10 to 18 year olds).

The programme aims to expose the learners to a wealth of knowledge and experiences to challenge their minds and an opportunity to form enduring friendships in a caring, well-equipped and secure environment. The Boarding House staff will become an extended family to the children under the direction of the experienced Boarding House Director, who is a member of the teaching staff and resides in the house. Boys and girls live on separate floors and a resident House Parent on each floor oversees the boarders’ pastoral and social welfare needs. There is a resident House Matron to take care of the boarders when they require medical attention. A 24-hour security system is in place to create a safe and secure environment. While academic excellence is of high importance to us, we believe that an education is not complete without creative, physical and spiritual pursuits. During the weekdays, boarders are expected to participate in a range of academic, sporting, arts and ICT activities. Every boarder is also encouraged to take up a leadership role with the student council or one of the many clubs at the school. A typical weekday includes 5 meals, special workshops, personal and pastoral time. On the weekends, the boarders have the opportunity to take a break from the busy weekday routine. However, they also have the option to participate in various sporting activities and excursions.

36 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 37


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

BOARDING HOUSE NISP provides boarding for boys and girls in Years 6-13 (10 to 18 year olds).

The programme aims to expose the learners to a wealth of knowledge and experiences to challenge their minds and an opportunity to form enduring friendships in a caring, well-equipped and secure environment. The Boarding House staff will become an extended family to the children under the direction of the experienced Boarding House Director, who is a member of the teaching staff and resides in the house. Boys and girls live on separate floors and a resident House Parent on each floor oversees the boarders’ pastoral and social welfare needs. There is a resident House Matron to take care of the boarders when they require medical attention. A 24-hour security system is in place to create a safe and secure environment. While academic excellence is of high importance to us, we believe that an education is not complete without creative, physical and spiritual pursuits. During the weekdays, boarders are expected to participate in a range of academic, sporting, arts and ICT activities. Every boarder is also encouraged to take up a leadership role with the student council or one of the many clubs at the school. A typical weekday includes 5 meals, special workshops, personal and pastoral time. On the weekends, the boarders have the opportunity to take a break from the busy weekday routine. However, they also have the option to participate in various sporting activities and excursions.

36 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 37


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

CAREERS

Uniform The same regulations apply for all Primary and Secondary learners.

Nexus International School has a dedicated team of advisors to assist learners in making applications to University; this is made up of the University and Careers Coordinator and the Y12/13 tutors.

All learners must wear their school uniforms unless there is a non-uniform day or PE lesson. Learners do not need to tuck in their t-shirts and Muslim female learners are allowed to wear hijab/tudung of any kind.

During Year 12, the school introduces the learners and parents to university systems across the globe, through a series of presentations and information evenings. We also run a number of workshops during ‘Careers and University day’ that prepare the learners for important tasks like, writing college essays and personal statements. University representatives visit the school on a regular basis and learners are encouraged to attend their seminars. For applicants to the USA we are accredited by College Board, in addition we also offer SAT preparation courses during the Easter break. In Year 13 most of the applications are completed so the advisor team offers support during regular mentoring sessions and PSHE lessons.

Appropriate closed outdoor footwear are acceptable. The school cannot accept responsibility for any injuries caused by the use of inappropriate footwear. Strictly no slippers/ sandals/flats or open toe shoes.

Communication with Parents

HIGHER EDUCATION DESTINATIONS

Parents are important partners in education and NISP encourages parents to be actively involved in the education of their children through the Parent Association and Parent Education Forum. Good communication is essential in a partnership and the school works hard to facilitate three-way communication.

Approximately 50% will study in the UK, 20% in Canada and the rest are heading to the USA, Australia, France and Malaysia. We are proud to be sending our learners to some of the best universities in the world, including, London School of Economics (UK), John Hopkins University (USA) and McGill University (Canada).

GUIDANCE COUNSELLOR NISP employs a full time Guidance Counsellor. Learners can be referred for guidance by teachers and they can make an appointment independent of teachers. The guidance counsellor works with families, staff and learners to ensure that all feel safe and supported in our community.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES Dining As NISP caters to international learners we serve a wide range of balanced meals to suit different tastes and requirements in our full cafeteria type dining facility.

NISP teachers and administrators use a variety of communication channels and tools including emails, Parent Conferences, regular newsletters, assemblies, individual class events, portfolio and progress reports to keep parents well informed of their child’s progress.

Accreditations & Affiliations

Learners can bring their own packed lunch to school or purchase lunch from the NISP cafeteria. The cafeteria provides a variety of healthy snacks and lunch options at reasonable prices.

Nexus is part of the Taylor’s Education Group, which comprises Taylor’s University, Taylor’s College, Garden International School, Australian International School Malaysia, TISKL and Nexus International School, Singapore. Since its inception in 1969, Taylor’s has become one of Malaysia’s most successful and reputable private higher education institutions.

Transportation

NISP has contracted an external transport company to provide bus transportation for learners. The buses serve most areas of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor such as Mont Kiara, Ampamg, Cheras and other major routes that enables learners to commute safely to and from school.

• •

Member of the Council of International Schools Member of the Australian Boarding School Association (ABSA) Member of the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA), United Kingdom.

Parents who are driving their children to NISP are required to obtain a Vehicle Permit. The Permit is to be displayed prominently on the front windshield of the vehicle to expedite the clearance at security.

38

38 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 39


______________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

CAREERS

Uniform The same regulations apply for all Primary and Secondary learners.

Nexus International School has a dedicated team of advisors to assist learners in making applications to University; this is made up of the University and Careers Coordinator and the Y12/13 tutors.

All learners must wear their school uniforms unless there is a non-uniform day or PE lesson. Learners do not need to tuck in their t-shirts and Muslim female learners are allowed to wear hijab/tudung of any kind.

During Year 12, the school introduces the learners and parents to university systems across the globe, through a series of presentations and information evenings. We also run a number of workshops during ‘Careers and University day’ that prepare the learners for important tasks like, writing college essays and personal statements. University representatives visit the school on a regular basis and learners are encouraged to attend their seminars. For applicants to the USA we are accredited by College Board, in addition we also offer SAT preparation courses during the Easter break. In Year 13 most of the applications are completed so the advisor team offers support during regular mentoring sessions and PSHE lessons.

Appropriate closed outdoor footwear are acceptable. The school cannot accept responsibility for any injuries caused by the use of inappropriate footwear. Strictly no slippers/ sandals/flats or open toe shoes.

Communication with Parents

HIGHER EDUCATION DESTINATIONS

Parents are important partners in education and NISP encourages parents to be actively involved in the education of their children through the Parent Association and Parent Education Forum. Good communication is essential in a partnership and the school works hard to facilitate three-way communication.

Approximately 50% will study in the UK, 20% in Canada and the rest are heading to the USA, Australia, France and Malaysia. We are proud to be sending our learners to some of the best universities in the world, including, London School of Economics (UK), John Hopkins University (USA) and McGill University (Canada).

GUIDANCE COUNSELLOR NISP employs a full time Guidance Counsellor. Learners can be referred for guidance by teachers and they can make an appointment independent of teachers. The guidance counsellor works with families, staff and learners to ensure that all feel safe and supported in our community.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES Dining As NISP caters to international learners we serve a wide range of balanced meals to suit different tastes and requirements in our full cafeteria type dining facility.

NISP teachers and administrators use a variety of communication channels and tools including emails, Parent Conferences, regular newsletters, assemblies, individual class events, portfolio and progress reports to keep parents well informed of their child’s progress.

Accreditations & Affiliations

Learners can bring their own packed lunch to school or purchase lunch from the NISP cafeteria. The cafeteria provides a variety of healthy snacks and lunch options at reasonable prices.

Nexus is part of the Taylor’s Education Group, which comprises Taylor’s University, Taylor’s College, Garden International School, Australian International School Malaysia, TISKL and Nexus International School, Singapore. Since its inception in 1969, Taylor’s has become one of Malaysia’s most successful and reputable private higher education institutions.

Transportation

NISP has contracted an external transport company to provide bus transportation for learners. The buses serve most areas of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor such as Mont Kiara, Ampamg, Cheras and other major routes that enables learners to commute safely to and from school.

• •

Member of the Council of International Schools Member of the Australian Boarding School Association (ABSA) Member of the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA), United Kingdom.

Parents who are driving their children to NISP are required to obtain a Vehicle Permit. The Permit is to be displayed prominently on the front windshield of the vehicle to expedite the clearance at security.

38

38 | Embracing Diversity. Challenging Minds.

www.nexus.edu.my | 39





Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.