4
Chapter 4
Primary and secondary education, rest of the world
150
Testing times
178
Jeddah Prep and Grammar School
152
Aditya Birla World Academy
180
The Koç School
154
Al Ain Juniors School
182
Legacy School
156
Al Ma’arifa International Private School
184
New English School
158
Amnuay Silpa School
186
The Oxford School
160
Bayview Glen
188
Pensionnat du Saint-Nom-de-Marie
162
Benoni High School
190
Podar World Schools
164
Colegio Británico Cancún
191
RIMS International School and Junior College
166
Colegio Colombo Británico
192
Shalom Hills International School
167
Collège Charles-Lemoyne
194
Sparrows Private School
168
Collège Durocher Saint-Lambert
196
Sri Emas International School
170
Dar Al Fikr Schools
198
St Peter’s School, Chile
172
Instituto Oxford
200
Thamer International School
173
Iqra Academy
202
Vidya Devi Jindal School
174
Instituto Politécnico Nacional
204
Wadi Sofia College
176
International School of Walvis Bay
The global educational landscape is evolving to incorporate an international array of ideas, technologies and best-practice methods. This chapter recognises the achievements of primary and secondary schools from around the world in broadening the horizons of students far and wide
Testing times The challenge of educating an expanding global population cannot be overestimated, but it is one that international education programmes are meeting head on
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Planet Earth is a pretty big place, and young people today want to explore it, seeking international careers and global experiences. Social media and advancing
“ Education systems are enabling children to expand their understanding of the world”
technology make it easier for them to achieve this in the virtual world – but the challenge for educators is to equip children with the skills, qualifications and
from disadvantaged backgrounds to gain admission to good
confidence to, quite literally, go wherever they want in life.
universities.” In the USA, more than 90 per cent of IB schools are
International education programmes aim to achieve exactly this, and their
state-funded, and, as Judith adds, “the Diploma Programme is
popularity is growing. Thailand is a case in point. In 1993, the country had just
currently being rolled out in about 500 state schools in Ecuador,
40 international schools, compared with 133 two decades on. The country’s Office
as well as a number in Malaysia and in Japan”.
of the Private Education Commission (OPEC) now hopes to create a hub for
But why are international programmes so popular? As well as
international education. “We expect that more students from Laos, Myanmar,
offering globally respected templates, many function independently
Cambodia and Vietnam will study at our international and English programme
of governments and national curricula, which renders them less
schools,” the acting Secretary-General, Chanwit Tubsuphan, has said.
subject to fluctuations. “The IB introduces change very slowly and in consultation with teachers,” Judith explains. “There’s also an
International qualifications
international community of our teachers and schools who share
A number of different schemes cater for these and other globally minded students.
ideas and best practice.”
Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), for example, is the world’s largest provider of international education programmes and qualifications for five- to
Language options
19-year-olds. These successful programmes are currently available in over 10,000
Although language may appear to be a potential stumbling block for
schools across more than 160 countries, offering international GCSEs and A levels,
children who join an international programme, it isn’t. Many schools –
|as well as other school exams.
including those in Argentina, Bosnia, Croatia, Germany, Italy, Sweden,
Edexcel, on the other hand, offers a mix of international qualifications, both
the Netherlands, Spain and Turkey – deliver CIE programmes as part
academic and vocational, to suit students from a diverse range of backgrounds
of a bilingual education, using CIE curricula and frameworks for their
and learning styles. Indeed, more than 5,400 international centres spanning an
English-language teaching, alongside the national system.
impressive 92 countries worldwide deliver the organisation’s well-respected exams.
The IB, meanwhile, is taught and assessed in English, French or
Then there’s the International Baccalaureate (IB), which offers programmes for
Spanish, with some exams offered in German and Japanese, and its
three- to 19-year-olds. “We believe in the holistic nature of education, so alongside
primary- and middle-years frameworks are also available in other
rigorous academics, we provide social, emotional and physical education,” explains
languages, such as Turkish. “The thing is, when it comes to the diploma,
Judith Fabian, Chief Academic Officer at the IB organisation. Its programmes are
most of our schools want to work in English,” Judith notes. “In China,
broad, with language study at the heart. And the IB is popular in both the private
we’ve asked if they want it in Mandarin – but they consistently say no.”
and state sectors and among children from a variety of backgrounds and cultures.
So, while children increasingly engage in borderless virtual
Of its 3,500-plus schools in 144 countries, the USA is the largest provider,
communities, education systems are enabling them to expand their
followed by Canada, the UK, Australia, India, Mexico and China. “The IB is followed
understanding of the world and, moreover, teaching them high-
by some very prestigious private schools,” Judith explains. “But the Diploma
quality, internationally respected qualifications. All of which should
Programme for students aged 16 to 19 is really successful in enabling children
help to make that big, wide world more accessible.
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World class Aditya Birla World Academy in india fosters an international outlook in its pupils, while also celebrating their rich cultural heritage
As an “international school with an Indian soul”, Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA)
The quality of the teaching is reflected in the school’s academic achievements,
is proud of the distinctive educational blend it offers. The school, whose motto is
and every year ABWA sends exceptionally bright children to Princeton University
“learn, achieve, inspire”, aims to give all of its students a solid foundation from which
to attend programmes for the gifted. However, the school’s inclusive approach to
to reach their full potential, while instilling a firm belief in themselves as individuals.
education ensures that it is not just the most academically gifted pupils who thrive.
Around 550 pupils attend this co-educational private school, which is located
Its departments for special educational needs and counselling – facilities that few
in Mumbai and delivers an international curriculum to children aged four to 17.
schools in India possess – form an integral part of the school and help guide pupils
Classes are conducted in English, and although pupils are predominantly Indian,
of all abilities through their education.
some have relocated from the UK, the USA and Canada. Indian heritage plays an important part in school activities, and many parents choose ABWA for the
Nurturing environment
way it successfully combines this with an international outlook.
Regular feedback from the school’s children and their parents confirms how highly they value the nurturing environment at ABWA – a ringing endorsement of its firmly
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State-of-the-art facilities
held educational beliefs. Principal Radhika Sinha describes the school as “a world
Established in 2009, ABWA boasts enviably up-to-date facilities. Classrooms and
in miniature”, where children begin to learn life lessons. “Students go out into the
laboratories are state-of-the-art, and the school’s well-stocked library provides a
world with the strength to not only excel in their professional aspirations, but also
valuable resource for students and staff alike. Aside from its modern facilities and
to fulfil their potential as human beings,” she says.
internationally accredited curriculum, however, it is ABWA’s emphasis on nurturing
Talks given by internationally renowned guest speakers, such as the former
its pupils’ characters, as well as their minds, that makes it such a special place to learn.
tennis champion Andre Agassi, inspire students to broaden their perspectives.
“Our ultimate objective is to imbue children with a strong sense of self-belief,
And the school’s annual Language Week helps to foster awareness and respect
deeply instilled values and a spirit that strives for excellence,” says Neerja Birla,
for other cultures.
the school’s Vice Chairperson.
Alongside an international outlook, pupils also develop a sense of pride in, and
There is also a firm focus on the development of teachers at ABWA, which
responsibility for, their Indian roots. Yoga classes are taught throughout the school,
ensures that they are all up to speed with best practice. Teaching staff attend
and every student takes part in community service. Initiatives such as Transforming
professional courses at international universities, including Cambridge and Harvard,
Indians to Transform India feature school discussions and workshops that focus on
and eminent lecturers visit the school to conduct workshops on education.
the country’s future and how to bring about positive change.
As well as professional training, ABWA’s teachers are also encouraged to
Students from ABWA have gone on to some of the world’s best universities
cultivate their personal skills, such as managing stress and promoting a positive
– positive proof that the school’s distinctive approach enables its pupils to reach
attitude. Indeed, considerable amounts of time and resources are devoted to
impressive academic heights. And, perhaps most importantly, they also emerge
helping teachers improve themselves, and with a teacher–student ratio of one
as fully rounded young people with deeply held values, well prepared for life’s
to six, every pupil benefits from individual attention.
challenges and opportunities.
www.adityabirlaworldacademy.com
“Our ultimate objective is to imbue children with a strong sense of self-belief and a spirit that strives for excellence�
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“We’re all expected to adhere to a curriculum, but quality teaching goes beyond the simple transfer of knowledge”
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Inspiring choice spearheaded by Al Ain Juniors school, the aj group in abu dhabi Delivers a high-quality education to an array of students from the UAE and beyond
Comprising two nurseries, two primary schools, a secondary school
“When a student’s love of knowledge and learning blooms before your eyes,
running two separate curricula and an adult educational consultancy,
you know you’ve made a real difference to that child’s future,” she continues.
the AJ Group is a leading provider of educational services in the
“We’re all expected to adhere to a curriculum, but quality teaching goes beyond
UAE. Located in the garden city of Al Ain in the Emirate of Abu
the simple transfer of knowledge and extends into the realm of helping students
Dhabi, the organisation caters for a wide cross-section of income
become all that they can be.”
groups, including hundreds of families who would not otherwise be
Founded on the belief that regular investment in staff development and
able to afford a high-quality education. In fact, in 2012, the group’s
training is the key to providing high-quality education, Al Ain Juniors School
schools were the only ones in Al Ain catering to low-income families
operates Focal Point, a training and development programme that supports
to be ranked in the Abu Dhabi Education Council’s A-band.
teachers both at the school and beyond. “Great teaching doesn’t just happen,”
Founded in 1989 by educationalist Tanveer Arshad, the group’s
Tanveer says. “Teachers need to be developed, supported and rewarded to create
Managing Director, the AJ Group originated as Al Ain Juniors Nursery
the inspired learning that will develop lifelong capacities in students.” Using HR
before expanding year-on-year to spawn its flagship institution, Al Ain
expertise to map the competences of teachers and leaders at all levels, Focal
Juniors School, which incorporates primary and secondary levels.
Point helps them to achieve best-practice standards in their field.
The school’s first intake of Year 12 students sat their exams in 2004. It now accommodates around 2,800 students from three to 18 years
Student programmes
of age, drawn from more than 45 nationalities.
Al Ain Juniors School has also initiated a range of student programmes, including
Al Ain Juniors School operates under two curricula – the Indian
STRIDE (Students Taking Responsibility in Demonstrating Excellence), CARE (Children
national curriculum for the local Indian community, and the UK’s
at Risk in Education) and AJMUN (Al Ain Juniors Model United Nations), all of which
national curriculum for the school’s multinational students – from
are designed to help students to collaborate confidently, communicate ideas clearly
two separate wings on a purpose-built campus. Each wing has its
and address challenges with creative solutions. Each initiative is built upon the
own reception, science and computer labs, library, multi-purpose
fundamental values of ethics, social responsibility, well-being and engagement.
hall, classrooms and faculty offices.
The result has been a consistent stream of remarkable individual student achievements, including best-in-nation and best-in-world results for Cambridge
Quality teaching
International Examinations over the past five years, the Sheikh Hamdan Award for
“Inspired learning is shaped by factors both inside and outside the
Distinguished Academic Achievement and winners in various national contests
school gate,” says Tanveer, “but once students are in our schools,
from spelling bees to football and badminton tournaments.
their performance is most strongly influenced by teacher quality.
Al Ain Juniors School is a testament to the significant impact that passionate,
The knowledge, understanding, skills and values young people need
committed and forward-thinking educators can have on the communities in which
in schools today must be at the heart of great teaching and inspired
they work. In the UAE the gap between rich and poor is wide, but the AJ Group
learning, and that’s where Al Ain Juniors School makes a difference.
enables rich and poor alike to benefit from a great education.
www.alainjuniors.com
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On course for growth the Uae’s Al Ma’arifa international private school offers its students a bilingual education that expands their knowledge of both arabic and western cultures
Based in the emirate of Sharjah, Al Ma’arifa International Private School perfectly
“As a result, many Al Ma’arifa students used to go abroad to study – to Egypt and
reflects the ever-growing global appeal of the UAE. Truly international, this school
other Arab countries, as well as the USA, the UK and Malaysia. But that has now
for three- to 18-year-olds offers several bilingual curricula and caters for students
changed with the growing reputation of our local universities. Today, the American
from more than 56 different countries, with a teaching staff that is equally diverse.
University of Sharjah is one of the best universities in the UAE and among the top
Under the direction of Mustafa Al Moosa, who has been the school’s director since
450 universities in the world. We collaborate closely with the institution as around
1989, it has gained an excellent reputation throughout Sharjah.
95 per cent of Al Ma’arifa students go on to post-secondary education at technical
The school recognises that good English-language skills are an important asset
colleges or universities.”
in the modern world. However, it also ensures that its students receive an excellent education in written and spoken Arabic as part of their living cultural heritage.
Cultural hub The school’s host city has established itself as more than just a centre for
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Multiple curricula
educational excellence in recent years. Located only a few miles up the coast
“We are a three-in-one school in that we offer British, US and Emirati curricula,”
from Dubai, Sharjah is renowned for its many museums, galleries and theatres,
explains Assistant Director Ayesha Shaukat. “From Grade 1 to Grade 8, pupils who
and is widely recognised as an important centre of Arab culture. “Unlike Dubai,
wish to study in English follow an international curriculum based on the US system,
Sharjah has managed to retain many of the region’s original values,” Ayesha
for which we have an accreditation from the New England Association for Schools
explains. “There is a lot of culture in Sharjah, which UNESCO named Cultural
and Colleges. From Grade 9, the students can choose to either continue under the
Capital of the Arab World in 1998, and we benefit hugely from everything that
US system or finish their schooling under the British system. Alternatively, students
happens here.”
can choose to complete their education in Arabic under the UAE Ministry of
One such event is the annual Sharjah Book Fair, at which Grade 12 student Alia
Education’s syllabus.”
Al-Hazami launched her first novel, Alatash, in November 2013 in the presence of
Housed among eight buildings on a single campus, with separate sections for
Sharjah’s ruler, Sheikh Sultan Al Qassimi. Alia’s remarkable achievement is testament
boys and girls at middle- and high-school levels, Al Ma’arifa is also accredited as a
to Al Ma’arifa’s fantastic work, which includes the provision of comprehensive
training centre for the Cambridge International Diploma for Teachers and Trainers.
student-support services. These comprise not only extracurricular activities and
While most of its middle-school students continue with the US educational system
after-school academic support, but also healthcare programmes and student
when they reach the high school, around 30 per cent choose to take Cambridge
counselling from the school’s full-time psychologist.
International Examinations’ IGCSEs and Edexcel’s A- and AS-level exams, while
This high level of all-round attention explains why Al Ma’arifa has grown from
around a fifth of students study in Arabic throughout.
around 200 to more than 5,000 students since it was founded in 1985. And with
“Irrespective of the stream they choose, most students speak both English
the cultural hub of Sharjah positioned within easy reach of the global metropolis
and Arabic fluently, and quite a few speak other languages, too,” Ayesha says.
that is Dubai, the school’s popularity looks set to climb yet further.
www.almarifa-intsch.ae
“Many Al Ma’arifa students used to go abroad to study, but that has changed with the growing reputation of our local universities”
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Thai trailblazer offering national and internationally accredited qualifications, Amnuay Silpa School is the standard bearer for modern education in ThailanD
Back in 1995, Amnuay Silpa School (ANS) changed the educational landscape
Despite its international outlook, keeping in touch with Thai
in Thailand with the introduction of one of the first English–Thai bilingual
and Asian culture is still an integral part of the curriculum at ANS,
teaching systems. The aim was to produce students with the confidence and
which aims to foster an appreciation of Thai attitudes and society in
outlook to compete both at Thailand’s top universities and on the international
its students. Walking the corridors of ANS, for example, the school’s
stage. Today, ANS continually outperforms other bilingual schools in Thailand
Thai music room can be found just a few doors down from a room
and remains the only school in the country that delivers both Thai national
dedicated to the International Scouting Movement.
qualifications and the internationally recognised IGCSE. “Our students know that they can compete at university level, both nationally
International staff
and overseas,” says Petchuda Kesprayura, the school’s Head Teacher. “They take
ANS’s teachers not only maintain the school’s cultural identity, but
pride in the fact that they have such a wide range of opportunities.” Indeed, thanks
are instrumental in helping its pupils achieve the top national grades,
to the Bangkok-based school’s bilingual programme, its students can pick and
year on year. The teaching staff is roughly half Thai, half foreign, with
choose between degrees in Thai or English, and are well prepared for the transition
the majority of overseas teachers coming from the UK, and from
to university life overseas.
the ages of three to 18, the co-educational school’s 1,000 pupils are given a fully bilingual education.
Thinking School status
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Students from 14 to 16 years of age are prepared for IGCSE or
A further boost to ANS’s reputation came in 2013 with its accreditation by Exeter
national Thai exams, and in Year 10 every student can choose to
University as a Thinking School. These are educational establishments around
study more or less of the IGCSE programme, depending on the kind
the world that are deemed to inspire creative thinking and curiosity in their pupils.
of university course they intend to follow. This flexibility shows an
“Education in Asia is traditionally very teacher-centred,” says Petchuda. “But the way
understanding of the fast-changing needs of education to prepare
we teach as a Thinking School is changing that. Our students are encouraged to
students entering the international business world. It also shows how
ask questions.”
far ANS has come from the modest school that was founded in 1926
ANS is not only the first Thinking School in Thailand, but the first in Asia, and
by Petchuda’s grandfather, which offered afternoon tutorials for boys.
staff are already sharing their experience with the wider Asian schools community.
Combining a forward-thinking attitude to teaching and a
In partnership with Thinking Schools International Asia, ANS has formed a team of
dedicated international and local staff, ANS is preparing its students
highly experienced teachers that is helping to train colleagues in other schools,
for an exciting world of opportunity. And with the backing of
notably in Malaysia, which aspire to become Thinking Schools. “I see this as an
Thinking Schools and Thinking Schools International Asia, it is also
opportunity for our teachers to develop professionally,” says Petchuda. “Their world
providing them with the chance to play a significant role in the
has become very stimulating, and they can bring new ideas back to our school.”
development of their own country.
www.amnuaysilpa.ac.th
“Our students know that they can compete at university level, both nationally and overseas�
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“We are nurturing students who are going to be democratically minded decision-makers�
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Learning experience at Bayview Glen in canada, schoolchildren are encouraged to extend their learning beyond the classroom in preparation for the challenges of the modern world
In 2013, students from Bayview Glen school in Toronto pipped 73 other teams from
with the latest equipment. “We don’t need to teach the students what the new
across North America and Asia to claim the Inspiration Award at the FIRST LEGO
technologies are,” says Eileen, “they already know that. Our teachers don’t ask
League North American Open robotics competition. Not bad for an after-school
questions that can be answered easily using Wikipedia; they expect their students to
club, and not untypical of the energy, enthusiasm and ingenuity that the school
think for themselves. We are nurturing students who are going to be democratically
engenders in its pupils.
minded decision-makers.”
A co-educational preschool, lower school, prep school and upper school
At Bayview Glen, technology is seen as a tool that encourages a personalised
with more than 1,000 pupils, Bayview Glen prepares its students, aged two to
approach to learning, as students progress through to graduation. The completion
18, for life as both resourceful leaders and rounded individuals. Its 100 per cent
in 2013 of upgrades to the upper school and a new extension for the prep school,
post-secondary placement record over several consecutive years is testament
which between them include sophisticated new biology, chemistry, physics
to the success of the school’s teaching strategy and its positive environment,
and earth sciences laboratories, illustrates Bayview Glen’s commitment to future
one in which students are encouraged to fulfil their potential.
educational needs. Add to this the thriving multicultural make-up of the school’s student body and you have a learning community that is well equipped for the
Individualised approach
trials of the modern era.
While scientific achievements, such as robot-building accolades, are highly prized, an equal emphasis is placed upon success in the arts, humanities, music and sport.
Round Square
“Some schools fall into the trap of being a science or an arts school, but they
Bayview Glen promotes an international perspective through its involvement in
run the risk of leaving some students behind,” says Head of School, Eileen Daunt.
Round Square, a charitable affiliation of more than 90 schools from five continents.
“Here, it’s about an individualised approach that allows us to understand each
This enables students to take part in community service and work projects in
student’s talents.”
developing countries around the world – challenges that call for ingenuity and
Indeed, the weekly timetable at Bayview Glen is packed with after-school clubs
compassion in equal measure, and which provide pupils with invaluable experience
of all shapes and sizes, and older children can benefit from extra teaching support,
in the real world.
courtesy of the school’s Advanced Placement programme. This progressive scheme
Pride in individual and team achievements, academic excellence and a grounded
enables promising pupils to complete university-level courses in advance of their
sense of purpose are in strong evidence at Bayview Glen. And when education is
high-school graduation and gain extra credits – a valuable advantage when applying
delivered at such an exceptional level, its influence extends far beyond the classroom.
for places at top universities.
“By Grade 6, most activities – such as the choir, our band or sports teams – are no
Delivering education via new technology is high on the school’s agenda,
longer compulsory,” says Eileen, “yet the students continue to be involved.” It is this
and significant funding is put into computer upgrades and providing classrooms
pride of involvement in their community that is part of their Bayview Glen legacy.
www.bayviewglen.ca
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High achievers Benoni High School in South Africa is a hothouse of sporting, cultural and academic success, where every pupil knows their worth
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Benoni High School in Gauteng province, South Africa has established a sustained track record of extraordinary academic achievement. In 2012, its graduating
“ The successes of our students provide a sense of achievement for everybody at the school”
students scored a 100 per cent pass rate in the Matric – the South African school-leaving exam – for the 40th year running. But academic excellence is
The pupils also raise funds for two charities, the San Michele
just the tip of the iceberg for this co-educational school, which also boasts
home and Kids Haven, and its Representative Council of Learners has
a string of sporting and cultural successes.
a local outreach programme that collects food, blankets and clothing for underprivileged children. Key to these activities is the fact that they
Sporting triumphs
are run entirely by the students. “They are very entrepreneurial and
The school offers its 1,500 students, aged from 13 to 18, a huge and varied
innovative, very clever at collecting funds,” says Jake. “And they are
extracurricular programme. It is the only government school in its province to
able to do all this thanks to our dedicated staff, who often give up
offer water polo, and is home to award-winning athletics, rugby, swimming and
their spare time to help.”
soccer teams, plus high-achieving cricket, cross-country, tennis, softball, hockey, equestrian, golf and sailing teams. This breadth of opportunity has resulted in
Highly rated
more than 80 of its students playing sports at a provincial or country level.
The school pursues excellence in academic, sporting and cultural
Students are required to take part in extracurricular activity, but if a pupil isn’t
activities, and its motto Quam Optime, or “better than the best”,
sporty, the school provides an equally rich cultural offering. The MADD Society
is ingrained in its pupils right from day one. Benoni High is rated as
(Music, Arts, Drama, Debating) took home more than 40 individual awards in 2013
one of the top 10 schools in Gauteng, and the top English-medium
alone for debating, public speaking, poetry reading, scriptwriting, drama and choral
government school in the province. “We are extremely proud of
singing. The school’s choir is considered the best in the region, and the children
our success,” says Jake. “The individual and team successes of
write and produce their own plays for numerous cultural festivals held around the
our students provide a sense of achievement for everybody at the
country. Benoni High also has a pipe band that has won the South African Pipe
school. It gives them the self-confidence to know that they can
Band Juvenile Championships every year since 1992.
accomplish whatever they want, because they’re just as good
“The extracurricular activities add another dimension to the school,” explains
as anyone else.”
Principal Jake Ceronio. “What the children learn outside the classroom is often just
Benoni High is not only a beacon of educational and
as important as what they learn inside the classroom.”
developmental excellence to its current pupils; it also acts as a
Moral and spiritual development is deemed equally important, with the school
lasting touchstone to former students who, despite having put
chapel playing a central role in the spiritual life of Benoni High. The school aims
down roots all over the world, continue to maintain links with their
to engender in its pupils a sense of morality, integrity, fair play, self-discipline and
old school. However, despite the loyalty these alumni show their
consideration for others and the environment. To this end, it is closely involved
alma mater, the school’s ultimate tribute remains the ongoing
with wildlife organisations, and pupils raise funds for anti-rhino-poaching initiatives.
achievements of its young charges.
www.bhs.co.za
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Bright prospects with its focus on bilingual education and its spotless record of university admissions, Colegio Británico Cancún in Mexico is a springboard to international success
Colegio Británico Cancún was voted recently one of the top 100 schools in Mexico – and for good reason. Among its many accolades, the private school boasts a well-respected bilingual education programme, counts National Olympiad competitors among its students and has a 100 per cent university admissions rate. Situated in the state of Quintana Roo, the co-educational school has a formidable record of preparing its students, aged two to 18, with the best qualifications and language skills. From the age of three, students are taught in English and Spanish, and by the time they graduate, they are proficient in both, as well as French or German. At the age of 11, all students take the University of Cambridge Key English Test, an English-language exam that covers the use of English in day-to-day situations. They follow this up with the intermediate-level Preliminary English Test and the First Certificate in English. Colegio Británico Cancún is also one of the very few schools in Mexico where students can apply for the highly respected Certificate of Proficiency in English. In addition, students also take science, literature, social studies and research skills courses in English. Bilingual education Catering for around 430 pupils, the school follows the Primary Years Programme and Diploma Programme of the International Baccalaureate (IB), and benefits from small class sizes, which enable teachers to give each child ample time and attention. “We are committed to giving our students the best possible bilingual education,” says Director Silvia Barra. “We use a very complete curriculum that allows them to acquire all the skills and competences required to make them lifelong learners.” This comprehensive, multilingual approach is also the perfect springboard to higher education. Senior high school students not only benefit from learning other languages, they are also required to undertake additional courses relevant to their chosen university major. So, for example, architectural design is available for those wanting to study engineering, architecture or physics; and communication studies can be studied by students interested in media or social studies.
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“ Our curriculum allows students to acquire all the skills and competences to make them lifelong learners” As a result, some 80 per cent of the school’s students achieved qualifications above the national average in 2013, and all of them were offered a place at a top-flight university, either at home or overseas. “We were ranked among the best 100 schools in Mexico by the National Education Test System thanks to our academic achievements, and within the state of Quintana Roo we rank the highest year after year,” says Silvia. Beyond the classroom The school also offers its charges an extensive programme of extracurricular activities. Every year, for instance, students participate in a play that is performed for the public in one of Cancún City’s theatres. There is also an opportunity for students to present their writing, paintings, designs and photographs to the public at an annual art exhibition called Cinco Sentidos. In addition, the school runs plenty of sports and music clubs, and students regularly participate in the National Student Sports Olympics in track and field events, and in basketball. “Some of our very best students have also made it through city-wide academic competitions, then progressed on to state competitions and finally competed in the National Olympiad,” says Silvia proudly. “Last year, they came second in maths and chemistry, and third in biology.” The students at Colegio Británico Cancún also maintain their own newspaper, Britanico News, which keeps the local community up to date with their numerous activities. In addition to maintaining a strong regional presence, the school encourages its pupils to be citizens of the world through its annual International Day, when pupils learn about a specific country’s culture and history. Indeed, its status as an IB World School means that Colegio Británico Cancún is not only one of the leading educators in Mexico, but also has a voice on the global stage as part of a thriving international network.
www.cbritanico.edu.mx
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Fertile ground At Colegio Colombo Británico in Colombia, exposure to the local community, industry and natural environment helps prepare students for a world of opportunity
“A well-rounded education is dependent on two
projects and nature reserves – is a vital part of
more than $1 million in scholarships to study at
factors,” explains John Wells, Headmaster of Colegio
connecting them to the realities of life,” John says.
universities in Colombia and overseas.
Colombo Británico (CCB). “First, students must be
“It complements the solid academic grounding
These successes only serve to develop CCB
connected to their local community: they need to
we provide. We know that it’s not enough for our
further, and with every step forward the school is
know who they are before they can know where they
curriculum to simply prepare students for life after
able to widen its reach and support more people.
are going. Second, they have to be prepared for the
school; it must also give them a head start.”
Nothing embodies this better than the continuing development of its 92,000 sq m campus.
demands of the world they live in, so they must be
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nurtured and moulded into global citizens who can
IB programmes
“The school has invested heavily in infrastructure
successfully compete on the world stage. CCB helps
Throughout their school career, students at CCB
and maintenance,” says John. “And through this and
them to achieve both of these goals.”
complete three of the International Baccalaureate
plans for the future we have the opportunity to share
Situated in the heart of Cali in south-west
programmes, studying a range of subjects in both
our top-notch facilities with the community, not just
Colombia, the school exists amid a deep social
Spanish and English. It’s an approach that has proved
our students. Operating in this way ensures that our
divide that, John believes, provides a fertile learning
effective – 100 per cent of students who graduated
impact resonates beyond Cali, and even beyond
environment for its 1,200 boys and girls, aged from
from the school in 2013 went on to higher education,
Colombia. Colegio Colombo Británico is the
18 months to 18 years. “Exposing students to all
with almost one in five choosing to study abroad.
epitome of a local school, but its mission, reach
aspects of local life – thriving industry, charitable
And what’s more, these students collectively received
and impact is global.”
www.colombobritanico.edu.co
The right option by offering its students a wide variety of study options, Collège Charles-Lemoyne in Quebec keeps them motivated and helps them achieve better results
At a time when most independent schools in Quebec, Canada, were run by religious orders, Collège Charles-Lemoyne (CCL) was created by an association of parents and educators who wanted to prepare students for “the challenges of their generation”. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2015, this secular, not-for-profit institution continues to adapt its curricula and teaching practices to the evolving needs and interests of students and their families, who are regularly asked for their input. For instance, the school has offered the International Baccalaureate programme since 2014, and it also provides strong support to students who struggle to achieve. As a result of its progressive approach, CCL is now the largest independent high school in Quebec, with more than 2,400 students at its two campuses near Montreal, in Longueuil and Sainte-Catherine. “One of the reasons for creating CCL was to offer a school where all the children from a family could go, irrespective of their levels of attainment,” says Director General David Bowles. “We have a very high success rate with children who have previously had difficulties in their education.” Motivating students A key reason for CCL’s success is that it offers a great number of fully integrated study options that cater for students’ interests, which, in turn, helps increase their motivation across all classes. From Grade 7 onwards, they can focus on sports, arts, sciences or languages, while maintaining or even exceeding the recommended class time in key academic subjects such as French, English and mathematics. “We’ve found that offering these options has had a profound impact on student motivation – especially for boys,” David says. “As a consequence, our graduation rate for boys is much higher than the provincial and national levels.” Students can choose from subjects such as dance, theatre and multimedia arts, as well as a range of sports including ice hockey and American football. “Quebec is well known for its association with ice hockey, and we enable students who are passionate about the sport to spend time in the arena by reducing some of their other classes,” David says. These class options also provide the opportunity for students to mix with peers they wouldn’t otherwise meet. “This creates an environment where kids can make friends through shared interests and in their regular classes, which creates a real sense of community and school pride,” David concludes.
www.cclemoyne.edu
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A thriving heritage the educational approach at Collège Durocher Saint-Lambert in quebec combines age-old founding principles with a thoroughly modern take on learning
Collège Durocher Saint-Lambert has the distinction of being among the top private schools in one of
“ We offer an unusually broad range of subjects. This allows us to give our students the chance to discover what they are most adept at and most interested in”
Canada’s economic powerhouses – the province of Quebec. Indeed, despite the fact that a large
developments in the fields of communication
Lambert and Collège Durocher – to provide young
proportion of secondary school students in Quebec
and learning,” says Isabelle.
girls with a Christian education. They merged in
attend private institutions, the college is regularly
Enabling students to carry out internet-based
1992, but their two sites still constitute the modern
cited as one of the province’s finest.
research for their studies plays a vital part in this
school’s premises, with 12- to 14-year-olds housed
Located on two sites in Saint-Lambert, a small
endeavour. To this end, the school launched a new
in one and the older students in the other.
city that lies directly opposite Montreal on the south
initiative in 2013 whereby each pupil receives his or
shore of the St Lawrence River, the co-educational
her own tablet computer with relevant, personalised
Founding values
secondary school has around 2,300 students aged
educational content. Each device belongs solely to
Although Collège Durocher Saint-Lambert is now
12 to 16. “This reflects one of our great strengths:
a particular student, who can take it home at the end
a co-educational institution and has been run by
that is, the fact that, as one of Quebec’s largest
of the day to use it for revision and homework.
a secular corporation since 1994, the humanistic
colleges, we are able to offer an unusually broad
“All our teaching materials are available on the
values of its founders still inform its curricula.
range of subjects,” says the school’s Headmistress
tablets, and we help our students identify relevant
“In fact, all of our pedagogic and academic
Isabelle Gélinas. “This allows us to give our students
information and teach them how to use that
decisions and processes are influenced by them,
the chance to discover what they are most adept
information and communicate it in an appropriate
because we consider these values an integral part
at and most interested in.”
manner,” says Isabelle.
of our heritage,” Isabelle explains. “And our focus
Having celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2010,
is very much on holding on to them as we move
Technological innovation
Collège Durocher Saint-Lambert is a long-established
into the 21st century and incorporate technological
As well as meeting each student’s individual needs
Canadian school with a great heritage. In fact,
innovations, as well as the most advanced teaching
by providing various course options in subject
its history is closely linked to the development of
methods, in our lessons.”
areas such as science, music, art and languages,
Quebec’s education system, and has been strongly
With this forward-looking mindset, and its
Collège Durocher Saint-Lambert continuously
influenced by the humanistic approach of the Soeurs
values-based education, it is no great surprise
strives to remain at the forefront of educational
des Saints Noms de Jésus et de Marie. Founded in
that Collège Durocher Saint-Lambert has firmly
development. “We always try to be up to date when
Quebec, the religious institute set up the school’s
established itself as one of the very best private
it comes to technological innovation and new
two forerunner schools – École secondaire Saint-
secondary schools in Quebec.
www.cdsl.qc.ca
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The big picture Saudi Arabia’s Dar Al Fikr Schools teach in both arabic and english to help their students develop a wider understanding of the world around them
The bilingual Dar Al Fikr Schools in Saudi Arabia actively encourage their students
the American high school diploma. English, science and maths
to engage with different cultures around the world. Located on three campuses
are all taught in English, while Islamic studies and social studies are
in the country’s second largest city, the Red Sea port of Jeddah, they cater for
taught in Arabic. In total, the schools have 900 students, and each
boys and girls from kindergarten to high school, and provide a quality education
campus is viewed as a satellite, reflecting the shared notion of being
in English and Arabic that appeals to families that might otherwise send their
consistent yet adaptable – the steadiness of their educational beliefs
children to schools abroad.
balanced by an openness to the wider world.
“We focus on the exchange of knowledge and expertise,” says Dr Ibrahim Bin Mohammed Mannaa, the schools’ General Director. “When students engage with people of a different culture, language or religion, they learn to respect them.
“ When students engage with people of a different culture or language, they learn to respect them”
That is why we work a lot with schools overseas, which is a great way to motivate students. It is also professionally and personally rewarding for our staff, as teachers
As part of this approach, the schools run a range of self-
and educators get a better understanding of other countries, their cultures and
improvement programmes. These require every student to complete
their education systems.”
a project related to society or the environment, and each Grade 11 student does 50 hours of community service.
Global citizens
“Dar Al Fikr Schools were a pioneer in Saudi Arabia with regard to
This open-minded approach was rewarded by the British Council in 2010, when
community service, and other schools have since followed suit,” says
five Dar Al Fikr students won first prize in its Connecting Classrooms competition.
Dr Mannaa. “We work with many institutions, such as orphanages and
Designed to help young people learn about global issues, become responsible
hospitals, and our students helped with the clean-up after the severe
citizens and gain the required skills to work in a global economy, the competition
flood here in 2009 and also raised money for people whose houses
had the theme of ‘global citizenship’, and more than 25 schools from all over
had been destroyed.”
Saudi Arabia took part.
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“The British Council asked Dar Al Fikr Schools to participate in the competition
House of thought
because of our advanced teaching methods and curricula,” explains Dr Mannaa.
Many Dar Al Fikr Schools graduates continue their higher education
The schools’ five winners subsequently joined students from across the
abroad in countries such as the USA, England, Japan and Australia.
Middle East and their UK partner schools for a London-based workshop with
“That’s because we not only instil Islamic values in our students but
the theme of ‘intellectual dialogue’. Afterwards, they spent a week in Dar Al
also encourage them to be open and move across cultural barriers
Fikr Schools’ prestigious UK partner school, Marlborough College in Wiltshire,
in today’s global society,” explains Dr Mannaa. “Dar al fikr means
where they attended classes, took part in lessons and experienced life in the UK.
‘house of thought’, which perfectly encapsulates our vision: to help
At their own campuses in Jeddah – which comprise one each for boys and
students be good at thinking for themselves and therefore become
girls aged three to 19, plus a kindergarten – the children’s lessons are based on
great leaders for the benefit of society.”
www.fikr.sch.sa
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A way with words Instituto Oxford in Mexico delivers a bilingual curriculum that emphasises excellent language skills and instils a strong sense of social responsibility
The ability to communicate in different languages
Premio Internacional Bachillerato Anáhuac (PIBA)
is a key requirement for success in what is an
and the Torneo Academico Internacional (TAI)
increasingly interconnected world. And at Instituto
competitions for Legionaries of Christ schools.
Oxford in Mexico City, pupils are provided with the
“At the 2013 PIBA awards, one of our students
ideal preparation for just such a future. Catering for
achieved first place in English Speech, and another
boys from elementary level up to high school, the
two came third in both English and Spanish Poetry,”
institute offers students a head start in life by teaching
says Luis. “Our students were also rewarded for
them in both Spanish and English from an early
their apostolic projects helping the underprivileged.
age. And as an authorised centre for University of
These projects are run entirely by pupils and engage
Cambridge ESOL examinations, it also gives students
children from elementary-school level right up to
the chance to learn Chinese, German, French,
senior high.”
Italian and Business English.
Instituto Oxford’s ethos of trying to help others
“Language skills are vital today, and our boys
starts with its own students. This means, for instance,
practise them with all kinds of exciting projects,
that any pupil who is struggling with languages
such as theatre productions and poetry readings,”
receives support and extra tuition, while the teachers
says Luis Berumen, Instituto Oxford’s Coordinator
also sit down with each student for at least an hour
of Humanities and Foreign Languages. “We also
every term to discuss their achievements, along with
run an annual science fair where students present
any concerns, should they have them.
their work and explain it in English.”
Outside the classroom, Instituto Oxford places great emphasis on sports, which give students the
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www.oxfordmexicomasc.com
Award-winning projects
chance to develop social skills, a healthy lifestyle and
Founded by the Legionaries of Christ – a Catholic
a keen sense of teamwork. In addition to PE classes,
congregation of priests in Mexico – in 1993, Instituto
the school runs after-school coaching academies
Oxford also encourages its students to tackle
for everything from tennis to tae kwon do.
projects that have a positive social message or
With this strong focus on self-development
impact. These initiatives have gained widespread
and the benefit of a bilingual curriculum, Instituto
recognition, and over the years the school’s students
Oxford students are well prepared for exciting future
have won numerous awards at the Central American
opportunities in an international environment.
Transforming lives in its ongoing struggle to provide a quality education to all, IQRA Academy is delivering knowledge and opportunity to the youth of pakistan
Educators face significant challenges and obstacles in their day-to-day work the world over; however, few operate in an environment as challenging as Pakistan’s Iqra Academy. “We are living through very, very difficult times,” says Academy Director Khola Mustafa. “Pakistani society is totally polarised and sections of the community are so intolerant of each other’s views that the very fabric of society is being torn to pieces.” Khola established Iqra Academy in 1981 in the conservative northern city of Abbottabad, where strict segregation of the sexes is expected. Against this challenging backdrop, it has grown into a chain of five co-educational institutions, providing teaching from preschool to A level. Character building “Right from the beginning, our school motto has been ‘character building’,” Khola says. “We want our ideals, values and principles to be put into action properly.” Much of Iqra Academy’s success can be attributed to Khola’s committed belief in the transformative properties of education – particularly for girls, whose potential remains untapped throughout much of Pakistani society. “Within our social structure, girls are expected to be meek and subservient, so we have always striven to give girls confidence,” she says. “They continue to be good Muslims with solid morals, but they can also be highly educated and can work professionally.” Today, female graduates of Iqra Academy are working in a wide variety of professions, from doctors, engineers, lawyers and architects to dress designers and artists. “They are all well respected and they all embody our ideals,” says Khola. Within the strict boundaries that Iqra Academy operates in, children are given as much freedom as possible, but the social pressures the school faces are very real. “As we expand, we have to train new teachers who are experts in their subjects, but who also recognise what our dreams and values are,” Khola says. Perhaps the best possible marker of Iqra Academy’s success is the fact that each of the original academy’s sister schools is now run by an ex-pupil who is committed to passing on the school’s philosophy to the next generation. “I feel that when our children leave us, they are better citizens,” Khola says. “They are compassionate and understanding, kinder and more caring. They apply their knowledge and opportunities for the betterment of their fellow human beings.”
www.iqraacademy.edu.pk
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A national treasure delivering a quality education to more than 153,000 students across mexico, The Instituto Politécnico Nacional is a driving force behind the country’s ongoing development
Founded by President Lázaro Cárdenas del Río in 1936, the Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN) has been critical to Mexico’s development. Since its inception, the goals of this nationwide network of institutes have been based on the principles of social justice established by Mexico’s reform movement. The IPN provides technical and vocational secondary school, undergraduate and postgraduate education to more than 153,000 young people across its various academic units. Within this far-reaching academic network, the IPN’s Centros de Estudios Científicos y Tecnológicos (CECyTs) – the institute’s technical and vocational secondary school units – provide quality teaching to more than 56,000 students across Mexico. Its 67 academic programmes are divided into three fields of study: engineering, physics and mathematical sciences; biological and medical sciences; and social and managerial sciences. In 2013, more than 75 per cent of the IPN’s CECyT students achieved good or excellent results in mathematics and communications in Mexico’s national ENLACE tests, and 80 per cent of Mexico’s highest achieving students chose one of the 17 CECyTs when applying to secondary school. Education for all As one of the driving forces of development in Mexico, the IPN offers educational opportunities across all social sectors, with a particular emphasis on helping economically disadvantaged students. In February 2013, for instance, the IPN opened two
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new centres – the first to be located outside the metropolitan area – in León, Guanajuato and Pachuca, Hidalgo. Created in response to requests
“ The institute’s goals are based on the principles of social justice established by Mexico’s reform movement”
from the governments of these states, the two centres will further improve the IPN’s regional
and relationships between CECyT students, in
educational offerings with the support of Mexico’s
order to encourage team work, the achievement
federal government.
of collective goals and greater social cohesion.
“Many students come from high-risk social
Additionally, we place particular importance on
environments, and 70 per cent of CECyTs’ students
strengthening oral and written comprehension in
belong to lower-income social groups,” explains
English through improvements to our teaching
Rector Dr Yoloxochitl Bustamante Diez. “This figure
programmes, IT, and the training and certification
is even greater at the new centres in León and
of teachers.”
Pachuca. Across all of our centres we’ve developed support plans for students to reduce the dropout
Award-winning
rates and promote better learning. These include
In recent years, IPN students have been heavily
tutoring programmes in which specialists, teachers
involved in academic competitions, conferences and
and outstanding students participate, to provide
research meetings at national and international levels.
support to their colleagues. Additionally, we have
The university’s students were awarded first prize at
developed pilot intervention projects in subjects
the 2013 RoboGames in San Mateo, California – the
that can prove to be more difficult for students,
world’s largest open robot competition. The project
such as mathematics.”
not only enabled students to gain significant insights
One of the IPN’s key aims is to help students
into design processes and modelling, but also gave
make a real contribution to Mexican society and
them valuable experience of participating in an
continue to drive its development. The IPN’s
international arena.
educational model encourages the application of
The IPN’s key objective, however, remains to
knowledge, particularly when it comes to raising
cultivate educational principles and cultural values
quality of life. Accordingly, the IPN’s approach to
in each student that will enable them to make a
teaching is oriented towards developing problem-
genuine contribution to Mexican society. And with
solving abilities in various fields — particularly in
96 per cent of technical and vocational high school
relation to sustainable development.
students at CECyTs proceeding on to graduate-level
“With this in mind,” says Dr Bustamante, “we
studies, it’s a goal that the university is enjoying
place a special emphasis on improving communication
considerable success in achieving.
www.ipn.mx/english
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Ocean of opportunity Nestled between the atlantic Ocean and the namib desert, The International School of Walvis Bay in namibia delivers an education that is bursting with unique experiences
Within walking distance of the South Atlantic Ocean and Walvis Bay’s sheltered deep-water harbour, the International School of Walvis Bay (ISWB) in Namibia provides
“ The unique surroundings enable us to provide our students with experiences that they just wouldn’t get anywhere else”
its pupils with an extraordinary educational experience. The school has made rapid progress since it was established in 2008 and now provides an international
Henda places great emphasis not only on sailing, but also on swimming as a
curriculum for more than 300 children from three to 18 years of age. It offers them
tool to build self-confidence, with the school providing weekly classes for children
the opportunity to gain internationally recognised qualifications, as well as the chance
aged six and up.
to study vocational subjects relevant to the diverse local economy and environment. “Our location right in the heart of Walvis Bay is simply exceptional,” says Principal
Academic ambitions
Henda Meyer. “The unique surroundings enable us to provide our students with
The International School of Walvis Bay can also offer an unusually diverse academic
experiences that they just wouldn’t get anywhere else.”
programme. It is, for instance, the only school in Namibia to teach music at both IGCSE and AS levels. The school’s range of University of Cambridge-approved
Animal encounters
AS levels includes business studies, English, mathematics, and travel and tourism.
Memorable experiences on offer include the chance to examine the behaviour and
“Eventually, we want to completely move away from AS levels and only offer
anatomy of some of the world’s most popular marine mammals. Positioned midway
A-level courses to enable our students to access universities in Europe and beyond,
up Namibia’s 975-mile coastline, the waters of Walvis Bay are home to a wide variety
which is something many ISWB students aspire to,” says Henda, who has been the
of dolphins and whales. Scientists journey from far and wide to observe these
school’s principal since its foundation. The school is also in the process of introducing
fascinating creatures, and from time to time these experts even conduct biology
computer science as a subject, in addition to ICT and word processing, which are
classes at the school’s laboratory, during which they examine marine animals that
already offered.
have died of natural causes. Pupils also frequently visit the bay’s huge oyster farms
With around 30 per cent of its pupils coming from overseas, the school also
and the research centres, in addition to scientific camps in the Namib Desert and
places great emphasis on the teaching of modern languages. While all classes are
local savannah.
taught in English, students as young as seven have the opportunity learn Afrikaans,
These excursions are not the only reason why the International School of Walvis
German and Portuguese.
Bay stands out, however. Thanks to its proximity to the ocean and a natural harbour,
With its diverse curriculum, exciting extracurricular activities and superb facilities
it is the only school in Namibia to have a young sailors’ club, whose members take
– such as its outstanding laboratory – the International School of Walvis Bay is a
part in both national and international regattas. Other unusual sports on offer include
genuinely engaging centre of primary and secondary education. “We endeavour
horse riding and volleyball, while more common pursuits such as football, athletics
to be the best school in Namibia,” Henda says, “and after only a few years, we’re
and gymnastics also feature on the extracurricular timetable. Being close to the sea,
already well on our way to achieving that goal.”
www.iswb.edu.na
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Bringing out the best as its 100 per cent pass rate at igcse, as level and a level goes to show, Jeddah Prep and Grammar School in saudi arabia excels at fulfilling the potential of every one of its students
Some schools shine in the field of science, others in the arts or
science labs. It’s an impressive array that gives each student the chance to
sports. But in the opinion of Arshad Ashraf, Headmaster of Saudi
extend their individual abilities, whatever they may be. Indeed, under the school’s
Arabia’s Jeddah Prep and Grammar School (JPGS), for an academic
Enrichment Programme, every pupil is encouraged to take part in at least one
institution to excel, it must cater for every talent.
extracurricular activity, whether that be a sport, drama, music or art.
“We aim to treat children as individuals, as each and every one
The decision to give each child the opportunity to achieve their own brand
is capable of success and of achieving high goals,” he says. “I believe
of academic success is clearly working. In 2013, the school’s pupils topped
that there is no limit to what a child can achieve and that we
the Cambridge International Examinations tables in IGCSE and AS-level history,
shouldn’t box children into those who can and those who can’t
IGCSE English language and AS-level art. The school’s students have also
attain academic success. They all can and should be encouraged
progressed on to some of the world’s finest universities, including London’s
to realise their dreams.”
Imperial College, King’s College and UCL, and Canada’s McGill University
With around 900 boys and girls from some 50 different
and the University of Toronto.
countries attending the school, the breadth of potential at JPGS is staggering. The UK’s national curriculum is taught up to the age
Community environment
of 14, including Early Years Foundation Stage, and pupils take their
In addition to its emphasis on academic achievement, JPGS nurtures a spirit
SATs in Year 6, with around 98 per cent of them performing at
of integrity among its students, imbuing them with values such as honour, trust
Level 5 in maths, English and science.
and individual responsibility. “Our school is a welcoming community that is
The school currently has a 100 per cent IGCSE pass rate, with
defined by academic excellence and mutual respect,” says Arshad. “We are
60 per cent of students achieving A or A* grades in seven or more
particularly proud to be delivering a superior education within an atmosphere
subjects. It also boasts unblemished pass rates at AS and A level.
of high ethical values. We will continue with our philosophy that academic
JPGS’s international intake is echoed by its emphasis on languages.
excellence, leadership skills and confidence flourish best in a community
All classes are taught in English, from the age of three onwards,
environment, because it enables students to fulfil their potential and become
and Arabic, French and German are compulsory subjects from
actively engaged, global citizens.”
Year 1, Year 5 and Year 7, respectively.
Founded as a small outfit in a two-room villa in the 1960s, JPGS has grown to become a paragon of educational excellence in the Middle East and the wider
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Enrichment Programme
world. Its diversity of students, cultures and languages provides its pupils with an
Located on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline, some 20 km west of
invaluable global perspective, and teaches them to face future challenges with
Mecca, JPGS’s facilities include two swimming pools, an extensive
clarity and compassion. As such, it also delivers an outstanding environment in
library with IT network, musical suites and no fewer than seven
which to shape the leaders of the future.
www.jpgs.org
“We shouldn’t box children into those who can and those who can’t attain academic success”
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Forward thinkers The Koç School in turkey champions A progressive approach that encourages its pupils to use their initiative to improve the prospects of students, school and society alike
Spread across a vast campus on the outskirts of Istanbul, The Koç School resembles a small, thriving town where young people are prepared for a great future in Turkey and beyond. The private school – which consists of a kindergarten and primary, middle and high schools – was established in 1988 and has around 2,000 students aged three to 18, including a number of boarders. As a forward-thinking institution, it not only offers the globally recognised International Baccalaureate (IB) and the Turkish national curriculum, but also places great emphasis on developing its students’ knowledge and skills through interdisciplinary activities, projects and research tasks. Inspirational projects “It’s important that our pupils connect with the world around them, so we do our best to support them in that,” explains The Koç School’s General Director Koray Özsaraç. “They all undertake projects with local and international connections. For example, a group of high school students is running a project called Basketball from East To West, which is a reference to the differences between the east and west of Turkey. The project brings students from schools in all parts of our country – and from across Europe – together for two weeks each year here on our campus to play a basketball tournament and learn from each other.” In 2012, the project was further enriched by the arrival of three former NBA players to coach
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the children over four days. Students also have to prove their resourcefulness by finding sponsors
“ It’s important that our pupils connect with the world around them”
to fund the event, flights and accommodation. Another recent initiative involved a group of six
The process of preparing students as much as
students going into the poorest areas of Istanbul and
possible for their future is also helped by The Koç
painting people’s houses, having found a local paint
School’s alumni. These include a wide range of
company to train and fund them. This innovative
people, from entrepreneurs to sportsmen, who
project inspired more than 200 students from other
travel from all over the world to talk to the students
schools across the country to do similar work.
about what to expect once they leave the school.
“We only specify that the projects have to have
In its effort to keep up with, and ahead of,
a positive impact on disadvantaged people,” stresses
the times, The Koç School is also introducing the
Koray. “Other than that, the students can decide
Bring Your Own Device scheme in 2014, which
independently who they would like to support.”
allows students to bring in their laptops or tablet computers and use them for their studies in the
Student consultation
classroom. In addition, the school boasts impressive
Collaboration also plays a crucial part in how The
buildings and facilities, including a new science block,
Koç School operates. Koray insists that key decisions
a leisure centre with indoor and outdoor pools, an
are made in consultation with the student council,
Olympic-sized running track with a football pitch in
whether they concern extracurricular activities or
the middle, and a 1,250-seat auditorium for theatre
a new study hall.
and music performances.
“If you include the students within the process,
This state-of-the-art setting and The Koç School’s
it’s much easier to work with them,” he observes.
modern, international approach to education have
“But more importantly, it helps them to develop as
ensured that a large number of its students go on
individuals. We continually look at how society and
to attend some of the finest universities in the world.
the world of work are evolving in Turkey and around
Providing a friendly and supportive environment,
the globe in order to prepare our students for them.
along with opportunities and a level of trust that
We examine independent research and suggestions
few schools offer their students, The Koç School
from the likes of the EU and the OECD, as well as
prepares its charges for whatever the future may
private-sector projections for necessary skills.”
have in store.
www.kocschool.k12.tr
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A living legacy Bangalore’s legacy school is CONSCIENTIOUS in its efforts to ensure that the education it provides is one of lived experience
Woven into every facet of Legacy School’s philosophy is the idea that learning
cultures. In addition, partnering with organisations such as
should be a living, breathing progression. Whether through academia, sport,
Amnesty International, International Justice Mission, World
the arts or community work, the private school in Bangalore, India, adopts
Wildlife Fund and Habitat for Humanity has given the curricula
an approach that brings its curricula into real, vibrant focus for the three-
a wider perspective.
to 18-year-olds it teaches. “We are guided by our core values of ingenuity, zeal and savoir faire,”
International outlook
says Roopa Swamy, the school’s Principal. “They lie at the heart of everything
The British Council International School Award and the Edexcel
we do and provide a framework to engage our 500 boys and girls in their
affiliation have provided Legacy School with opportunities to
learning and development.”
benchmark its efforts against globally recognised standards.
Creative learning
its students get many different opportunities to develop a cross-
The roots of the school’s kindergarten are firmly planted in the Montessori
cultural perspective.
However, the school’s international outlook also ensures that
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approach, where children are encouraged to define their learning at their own
This is achieved not only through student participation in
pace. And from Grade 1 onwards, pupils follow the Edexcel (UK) International
external programmes and competitions, but also through visits
GCSE and GCE curricula, which they study through to Grade 12.
from representatives of foreign universities and other international
Legacy School adopts a collaborative approach because it fosters an
guest speakers who share their insights within the secular school
integrative culture that leads to creativity and diversity. The school recognises
environment. In addition, online conversations with overseas
the impact that parents and the wider community have on learning, and
students help raise awareness, sensitivity and understanding
this emphasis on collaboration actively defines how the school navigates
of diverse cultures, viewpoints, values, practices and beliefs.
its curricula.
Legacy School’s broad outlook extends to all subject areas,
In a country where rote learning is the norm, Legacy School is pioneering
which has resulted in some outstanding achievements. For instance,
change. It is the first school in India to have adopted Edexcel’s International
a Grade 11 graphic design student recently forged links with an
Primary, Lower Secondary, International GCSE and GCE qualifications and
advertising agency to promote his artwork after having already
examinations, and it encourages its students to learn through direct inquiry,
designed an album cover for a band and sold one of the characters
analytical and critical thinking, problem solving and application. This has
he developed to a comic-book producer.
made learning more interactive, challenging and enjoyable for them.
“The school provides such a solid foundation for its students
The school has also embedded international learning into its curricula
that success, in one way or another, is inevitable,” Roopa concludes.
through the British Council International School Award, and it also creates
“And when learning transcends the classroom experience, it is the
projects that engage students across age groups, subjects, countries and
most definitive sign that something truly exciting is happening.”
www.lsb.edu.in
“When learning transcends the classroom experience, it is the most definitive sign that something truly exciting is happening�
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A shining example the new english school in jordan provides each of its pupils with a tailored education that makes the most of their potential, both inside and outside the classroom
As its aspirational motto Ex Oriente Lux, or “Light from the East”, suggests, the New English School (NES) has always harboured ambitions to expand beyond its beginnings as a small kindergarten to become a beacon of inspiration in education. Now, some three decades on, the co-educational, Amman-based school has become one of the most high-profile in Jordan, thanks to the quality of its teaching. Catering for around 1,300 students, aged two to 18, from some 35 different countries, the school has a tailored approach to education that applies to all, from primary school level onwards. This personalised style means that pupils learn in different streams, and even different languages, dependent on their background and ability. Syllabus options The school’s bilingual syllabus enables children to learn in both English and Arabic, and is based in large part on the National Curriculum of England and Wales. A separate stream has also been introduced that means pupils can take almost all of their classes in English from Grade 1 through to Grade 12. Based around the Cambridge Primary Programme and the Cambridge Checkpoint feedback test, this stream is further divided into regular and extended classes at Grade 4. Pupils can study towards different qualifications, including IGCSEs and A levels, as well as French-language DELF scolaire exams.
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“ The NES’s mission to promote and foster a ‘culture of excellence, dedication and team spirit in all areas of school life’ has proved a huge success” It is not just the more academically minded
themselves in local community projects, whether
who benefit from such a personalised approach.
visiting an orphanage or fundraising for any one
The school’s Challengers Group, set up in 1995, offers
of a number of charities. The NES was also one of
special support for pupils with additional needs,
the first schools in Jordan to take part in the Model
including those with learning difficulties, gaps in their
United Nations – a programme designed to instil
education and language problems. “We consider the
an appreciation of other cultures, beliefs and
Challengers Group programme to be a safe haven
civilisations in the participants, and to increase their
for those students who are enrolled in it,” says school
leadership skills and self-confidence. The school
founder and Chairman Said El-Turk.
has been sending its pupils to conferences in Paris,
The programme includes one-to-one teaching
The Hague and London for more than a decade.
sessions and counselling, as well as peer mediation
And with around 80 of its students currently
with other students and, if necessary, specialist help
participating in the scheme, the NES now holds
from outside sources. Currently provided to more
its own annual Model United Nations conference
than 40 of the school’s pupils, it aims to ensure that
for delegates from local schools.
every child can fulfil their potential.
It’s a programme that perfectly reflects the school’s philosophy that there is more to education
Extracurricular development
than simply time spent in the classroom. And the
Opportunities at the NES are not exclusively academic
NES’s mission to promote and foster a “culture of
in nature, however. Extracurricular activities are
excellence, dedication and team spirit in all areas
deemed to be just as crucial to the development
of school life” has proved a huge success.
of the school’s young charges. “Teachers and staff
“Thanks to our hard work, we have an excellent
are expected to recognise and reward independence,
reputation,” reflects Said. “Our students have gone on
initiative and self-expression,” says Said.
to some of the best universities in the world, including
In addition to participating in music, athletics,
Cambridge, Imperial, MIT, Harvard and Princeton.”
art, science and technology, and the performing arts,
Indeed, it’s fair to say that the NES has illuminated
the school’s students are encouraged to involve
the path to many a bright future.
www.nes.edu.jo
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Broad horizons As Panama becomes increasingly international, so too does the Oxford School, delivering a quality British education that widens its students’ global prospects
The UK’s education system is renowned throughout the world for its history of
The internationally orientated curricula offered by the school are aimed
excellence and its modern, progressive outlook. Few know the value of importing
at giving students the best possible start. They follow the British National
that system better than The Oxford School in Panama, whose motto is “Pioneers
Curriculum to the age of 14, before studying for the Cambridge International
in British Education in Panama”.
Examinations. Delivered by highly qualified international teachers, the curricula
Having opened in 1984 as a private, co-educational day school with just
prepare Oxford School students for university and careers anywhere from
36 students, The Oxford School now boasts two sites, where some 2,000 children
London to Lima.
aged two to 18 are educated. At the Panama City location, based in the heart of the exciting and rapidly expanding metropolis, around 1,600 students enjoy top-class
International experience
facilities, including a gymnasium and a pool. Meanwhile, in Santiago de Veraguas in
Members of staff have been brought in from around the world, including the UK
central Panama, a further 400 students benefit from a large campus of more than
and the USA. Jennifer, an Australian national, spent time teaching in the USA and
20,000 sq m with excellent sports grounds. Within these learning environments, a
England before bringing her skills and experience – not to mention her knowledge
mix of Panamanian and international students receive an education in both English
of the British education system – to The Oxford School, where she works mainly
and Spanish designed to set them up for the demands of today’s global economy.
in the primary school. “My time is spent developing teachers’ lesson plans and supporting them with training,” she explains. “Part of my job is keeping abreast of
186
Year of celebration
changes to the curriculum and new approaches to teaching in the UK.”
“We’ve been looking forward to 2014 for years,” says Headmaster Malcolm Griggs.
This international outlook has brought new systems and ways of doing things
“As well as heralding the school’s 30th anniversary, the year will see great changes
to The Oxford School, including a guided reading programme – adapted to cater
for Panama itself. The Panama Canal, which is celebrating its centenary, is being
for multilingual students – and a UK programme called Letters and Sounds, which
expanded, bringing people here from around the world.”
helps children learn to read and write. “The English curriculum is highly thought
“Panama has become a first-world country in a very short space of time,”
of and a lot of parents are very willing to invest in it,” says Jennifer. “It opens up
agrees academic coordinator Jennifer Goward. “This has brought a cosmopolitan
fantastic opportunities for young people.”
vibe and a more international outlook.”
The Oxford School is very proud of its pioneering Panamanian take on
It has also raised the level of competition in Panama’s economy, making
British education, and sees 2014 as a time to celebrate its 30 years of successes
the work that The Oxford School does even more important. “Our students will
and to embrace the future. As Panama welcomes great development and
be competing for jobs and university places with people from all over the world,
internationalisation, so too does The Oxford School – delivering a top-quality
and we have to prepare them for that,” says Malcolm.
British education that will carry its students on to global success.
www.oxfordpanama.com
“The English curriculum is highly thought of and opens up fantastic opportunities for young people�
187
Worldwide outlook Canada’s Pensionnat du Saint-Nom-de-Marie is a secondary school for girls that creates open-minded, independent learners who are ready to take on the world
Pensionnat du Saint-Nom-de-Marie (PSNM), a private, French-speaking secondary school for girls
“ Everyone at the school knows that the ultimate goal is the students’ success. This helps to unite everyone. The pleasure of working together is palpable”
in Montreal, Canada, centres its teaching around
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the motto “Beyond Performance, World Citizens”.
World citizens
but we go beyond them,” he continues. “We also
This ideology is present in all aspects of the school’s
As its motto highlights, the school recognises that
focus on our students’ emotions and their individual
work, promoting a combination of intellectual
performance is important. “But above all,” says
inclinations or needs. And, above all, we help the girls
achievement and social and spiritual awareness
General Director Yves Petit, “our institution wishes
to understand their own role on the road to success,
that ensures pupils become global citizens with
to go beyond that and educate its students to
and this happens when they understand their own
a conscience.
become world citizens.”
approach to learning.”
Located on the flank of Mount Royal, the striking
Providing students with a global awareness
hill and natural park in the heart of Montreal, PSNM
while also developing their skills is an admirable
Beyond the curriculum
educates more than 1,000 girls aged 12 to 17 in
endeavour that requires much more than the
There are many opportunities for students to enrich
its impressive building, complete with stunning
teaching of facts alone. “In order to achieve our
their learning at PSNM. Cultural activities include
neoclassical portico. The school offers four study
goal, we have devised an educational approach
visits to museums, theatres and orchestra recitals;
profiles: the International Education Programme;
centered on the student,” says Yves. “We ask a lot
friendships and a sense of citizenship are nurtured
Life and World; Dance and Studies; and Music
of our students, but we do it coherently. They learn
through nature camps and community service; and
and Studies. The first of these combines the
the importance of effort and intellectual rigour.
the girls get the chance to explore the wider world
International Bacclaureate programme and the
They learn to understand just how much damage
on school trips to Quebec, the USA, South America,
local Quebec Education Programme. The Life and
a narrow-minded approach can do to society.
Europe and Africa.
World option, meanwhile, enriches the curriculum
One doesn’t learn to become a world citizen in
The school’s Extra Courses programme provides
of the Quebec Education Programme with courses
a month or even a year, but rather day by day.
students seeking to further add to their education
in media and Spanish.
Our approach aims to develop all aspects of an
with the chance to do so. Comprising off-timetable
For the Dance and Studies option, on the other
individual – intellectual, spiritual and social.”
courses for those with a strong interest and ability in
hand, the school partners with the École supérieure
The student is key at Pensionnat du Saint-
a particular field, the programme promotes a deeper
de ballet du Québec, the only institution in North
Nom-de-Marie. “The maintenance employees, the
understanding of the subject.
America to provide a professional ballet programme
teachers, the secretaries, the directors: everyone
“We have excellent strategies in place here, but
entirely in French. And for Music and Studies, it has
at the school knows that the ultimate goal of their
in order to ensure that a high level of education
joined forces with the prestigious École de musique
work is the students’ success,” says Yves. “This ethos,
remains the standard, the quality of the teaching is
Vincent-d’Indy. Those students who are enrolled on
shared by all at the school, helps to unite everyone.
of the utmost importance,” says Yves. “To this end we
these two programmes spend half their time studying
The pleasure of working together is palpable.”
constantly evaluate the curriculum and stimulate our
their passion – dance or music – and the other half
“At Pensionnat du Saint-Nom-de-Marie, we
teachers by encouraging them to pursue their own
receiving a solid general education.
respect the national and the international curricula,
development, too – not just that of the students.”
www.psnm.qc.ca
189
Group dynamic providing an affordable education to children across India, Podar World Schools use technology to deliver an engaging and effective education
Podar World Schools in India combine the wisdom of 87 years of experience with
In fact, the use of information and communications technology is one of the
forward-looking curricula and modern, state-of-the-art campuses. Established in
hallmarks of a Podar education. Classrooms are digital – fitted with tablets, visualisers
1927 by Sheth Anandilal Podar, an eminent Mumbai-based businessman, the ethos
and interactive whiteboards as well as with computers – with further computer-aided
of the group remains the same – providing high-quality, affordable education to
learning taking place in dedicated computer labs. “In this fast-paced, technology-driven
Indian children. Podar Group’s first President was none other than India’s founding
world, we want all of our students to be at the forefront of ICT,” says Raghav Podar,
father, Mahatma Gandhi – a fact that makes the group unique in the country’s
Trustee and Chairman, as well as great-great-grandson of the group’s founder.
educational landscape.
Raghav and members of his teaching staff regularly participate in various
With its head office in Mumbai, Podar Group educates a vast number of students
international conferences and forums across the world, demonstrating the group’s
across the country, from pre-primary up to university level. The core of its offering
commitment to excellence in teaching. In 2012, Raghav was awarded the Pride of India
is within the three- to 18-year-old age group, with curricula that encompass all the
Award in recognition of best practice in education. Pupils from the group’s schools in
boards available in India, including the International Baccalaureate and Cambridge
Mumbai have regularly achieved the city, state and even national “Toppers” – assigned
International Examinations.
to those with the highest grades in India’s CBSE and ICSE qualification boards. “We view ourselves as talent nurturers, and our primary focus is empowering
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Digital learning
all our young minds to spearhead a dynamic global future,” says Raghav. “Many of
Podar World Schools were the first education group in India to introduce 3D
our alumni are now in distinguished positions in India’s judicial system and corporate
teaching technology and motion-sensor-based interactive learning, methods
world, in literature and poetry, as well as in medicine and Bollywood. It is testament
of teaching that, by transforming lessons into engrossing experiences, have
to our heritage and reputation that every year our Mumbai schools alone receive
dramatically improved their students’ learning outcomes and academic results.
many more applications than we have places for.”
www.podar.org
The chance to excel Small class sizes and a wide-ranging curriculum ensure that students at RIMS International School and junior college in India have ample opportunity to fulfil their potential
RIMS International School and Junior College in Mumbai was the first of its kind in the Indian state of Maharashtra to offer Cambridge International Examinations. As such, it has a well-established history of offering its students opportunities that they wouldn’t otherwise have. “Flexibility and choice of subjects isn’t something that we have much of in the Indian national system of education,” explains Reshma Hawa, CEO. “Our business courses for HNC, HND, GCSE and A level, for example, are particularly popular with entrepreneurial students.” Pupils at RIMS can also study economics, accounting, business studies, art and design graphics. Founded in 2000 with the aim of providing an international education to the aspiring families of the suburbs of Mumbai, RIMS is spread across two campuses. Between them, these offer everything from kindergarten to A-level education for around 400 students, aged three to 18. Such is the school’s expertise in the Cambridge International Examinations system that the school is also a teachertraining centre for the curriculum. “We have 13 years of experience as pioneers of the Cambridge system,” says Reshma. “So parents and students can trust us to deliver what we promise.” Individual focus The school’s diverse curriculum, however, isn’t the only thing that makes RIMS notable. The maximum class size is 12 but, more often than not, it’s around nine. This means that the school and its teachers can pay more than just lip service to the idea of personalising the education of each child. Many of the private school’s students have been recognised with both top-in-India and top-in-the-world Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards. One of its teachers, for instance, was presented with the Best International Teacher Award by Edexcel in 2009, for his use of innovative technology in the classroom. In addition, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from arts and crafts to sport, and every year the whole school works on a joint project designed to raise awareness of global issues. “We make it informative and fun,” says Reshma. It’s a sentiment that applies equally to all of RIMS’ wide-ranging offerings.
www.rims.ac.in
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A solid foundation Based in India, Shalom Hills International School’s strong focus on experiential education instils a love of learning in its students from their earliest years
With its motto of “world peace through education”, India’s Shalom
from gardens that pupils can tend, to the Experiential Lab,
Hills International School has impressive ambitions for its students;
where board games, beading and specialist maths learning
ambitions of both academic excellence and personal development.
kits spark their development.
“The great philosophers believed that without a sound frame
Science and technology are also essential components at
of values, a student would not be able to attain great heights in
Shalom Hills, which has a new electrophysics lab and a robotics
their pursuit of excellence,” says Dr Lilly George, who founded
lab. However, in keeping with the school’s experiential learning
Shalom Hills in 2004.
ethos, rather than relying on theoretical study, innovative activities
The co-educational school is based in Gurgaon, near India’s
provide a wider understanding of the world, along with an
capital, New Delhi, and caters for around 2,000 pupils aged from
increased proficiency in electronics, maths and physics. A tie-dye
18 months to 16 years. It supports all levels of learning, with an
workstation allows pupils to increase their knowledge of chemistry
emphasis on extracurricular and character-building activities, and
by creating natural and synthetic dyes before inspiring their artistic
its ethos of nurturing the individual and encouraging a love of
side to design their own block prints.
learning begins with its youngest kindergarten students. “Wisdom and knowledge about the world are not only gained
Environmental awareness
in senior school or when you are inching your way towards the
In addition, the school focuses on protecting the environment.
graduating years,” explains Dr George. “They are also gained in
“Awareness of the ecological crisis has opened up the young minds
the sand pile, in the splash pool, in the play area, in circle time.”
of learners and become a moral issue for the world,” says Dr George.
As a result, the school’s Step Ahead programme focuses on
“That’s why our school has started a green sustainability programme,
the values that are central to the Shalom ideology from the earliest
launched numerous campaigns and works in close association with
years. It includes linguistics training to improve oral language skills
NGOs on environment conservation issues.”
and promotes the celebration of different religious festivals to instil
In one campaign, students were encouraged to save energy
tolerance for others. In addition, it inspires independent thought and
by monitoring their own electricity consumption and creating
rewards curiosity by allowing children to learn at their own pace.
alternative fuels from methanol in the school’s laboratory. At the same time, they developed their creativity by performing a street
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www.shalomhills.com
Multiple intelligence
play and composing a jingle. The school also plans to set up its own
Lessons in core subjects all end with a ‘multiple intelligence’ activity,
paper-recycling plant, reverse-osmosis project and butterfly garden.
which could be anything from a quiz or collage-making to debates
Through this range of activities, students are encouraged to
and further projects. Working in pairs or groups, it ensures that less
develop a lifelong love of learning, while nurturing their sense of
academic students also have an opportunity to contribute, while
social responsibility and realising their academic potential. “We aim
constant evaluation helps overcome any early difficulties.
to fully develop the students,” says Dr George, “in the hope that they
Another key part of education at Shalom Hills is experiential
leave Shalom Hills with high moral values, sensitivity towards others
learning: teaching children core skills and value concepts by
and the ability to inspire positivity, coupled with knowledge, courage
doing, rather than telling. Facilities that support this goal range
and multiple skills.”
“Wisdom and knowledge about the world are also gained in the sand pile, the splash pool, the play area�
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Soaring ambition Pupils at Sparrows Private School in Johannesburg, South Africa, benefit from individual attention in a high-flying environment that fosters an open-minded atTitude
From its origins as a nursery school, Sparrows Private School in South Africa has grown and, like its pupils, gone from strength to strength. Based in Randhart –
“ We educate all of our learners without preference or prejudice, within a secure, caring and disciplined environment”
a suburb on the outskirts of Johannesburg – the school was the first in the region
194
to become multiracial, and aims to establish itself as the area’s top academic
upgraded recently – Sparrows Private School also encourages its pupils to pursue a
performer over the next three years.
host of extracurricular activities. “Music and art are part of day-to-day life at Sparrows,”
Sparrows Private School prides itself on being a family-orientated school
he adds. “The school always participates in a range of cultural events across the
that takes a personalised approach to each of its students. “We are a multicultural,
region, including the local Eisteddfod festival of literature, music and drama.”
secular school, where all religions and cultures are celebrated,” says Principal
Older pupils have also taken part in regular trips to Europe, with senior students
Gregory Gregoriou. “We strive to educate all of our learners without preference
travelling to Paris and London in recent years to visit historical and cultural sites,
or prejudice, within a secure, caring and disciplined environment.”
and establish links with schools overseas.
One-to-one teaching
Cultural diversity
The school has an even male-to-female split among its 300 students, aged from six
The school’s activities also emphasise the diversity of its pupils. “They come from
to 18. Each class is small, with an average of 18 pupils, which allows for a pupil-by-
all backgrounds and religions, and that’s reflected in what we do,” says Gregory.
pupil attitude to teaching, designed to identify gifted students as well as those who
“Last year, for example, the choir sang songs in Hebrew, Zulu and French.”
may be struggling. “Each learner is mentored on a one-to-one basis by a teacher
This abundance of cultures is due in large part to the fact that, from early
who is responsible for their individual progress,” says Gregory. “As well as their
on, Sparrows Private School has been a multiracial institution – a decision that
academic performance, that teacher is responsible for the learner’s well-being.”
was taken in 1989 by then Principal and human rights activist Nick Karvelas, years
It’s an ethos that has informed the school’s educational approach from day
before apartheid was formally abolished in 1994. However, the school’s current
one. Founded in 1971 by couple Ari and Nikki Karvelas, the school was initially named
management isn’t resting on its laurels. In addition to its ambitious academic
Little Sparrows after Ta Spourgitakia – the nursery in Athens where Nikki had taught
goals, there are proposals in place to further extend its cultural activities.
previously. Having flourished and expanded, with additions including a crèche and
“The school play has become an annual event, which the entire school
aftercare centre, it opened as Little Sparrows Primary School in 1993. The school
participates in,” says Gregory. “The plan is for us to enter the RAPS [Repertory
continued its drive to grow and improve its facilities, and in 2008 its name and
Amateur Players Society] Schools Festival in 2014 at the University of the
educational scope changed once more as it assumed its current title and welcomed
Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.”
its first high-school pupils.
From the outset, Sparrows Private School hasn’t shied away from a challenge
“In a recent audit by the Department of Education, our systems and processes
– an attitude that has reaped rewards for school and pupils alike. As Gregory
received a 100 per cent grading,” says Gregory. In addition to investing in its
explains: “Ultimately, our success can be expressed in one word, evolution,
academic success – the school’s computer facilities, for instance, were fully
which inspires us all to strive for a brilliant tomorrow.”
www.sparrows.co.za
195
Ahead of the curve By nurturing leadership skills, confidence and self-awareness, Sri Emas International School in Malaysia offers its students a unique and successful start in life
196
“ Students discover how they learn best and the school responds to that, so our classrooms are never static”
Little is more important – in schools, business and
who end up holding top positions in clubs, being
life alike – than strong leadership. It makes systems
prefects and so on. We nurture leadership qualities
function efficiently. It allows individuals to embrace
in every student.”
their strengths and address their weaknesses.
This involves giving them the confidence to
It nurtures good ideas. Sri Emas International School,
speak up, the creativity to solve problems and the
were taught how to run a campaign, explains teacher
a co-educational private school based in Petaling
intellectual agility to debate ideas. Sri Emas achieves
Jens Schottmann. “The best ones pitched to Wrigley’s
Jaya on the outskirts of Malaysia’s capital, Kuala
this through group work, in which students learn
and 20th Century Fox, who were so enticed that
Lumpur, understands this, and puts leadership skills
how to get the best out of one another. Each child
they got our kids to run a real campaign for the
at the heart of its curriculum.
is also required to give presentations on a regular
movie The Wolverine.”
“I’ve been teaching like this for 18 years,” says
basis. “That can be quite intimidating at first,” Anne
Managing Director, Anne Tham. “I started with English
acknowledges. “So, we start by asking students to
Engaging and enjoyable
classes that imparted presentation skills, creative
engage in group talks. As they gain confidence,
Key to each student’s success is understanding
writing skills and leadership skills. Kids loved it, so we
we shift the focus to group presentations. By the
their own learning styles and approaches, and every
decided to expand into other subjects.” This approach
time they leave us, it’s normal for them to speak
year, Greg Evans – owner of the international youth
raised attainment, as well as the students’ outlook
alone to large groups in all classes – history, ICT,
training programme, Seeds Training – accompanies
and enjoyment of learning. As a result, Anne set up
physics, maths. Our students are not afraid of that.
the entire school on a compulsory five-day training
a tuition centre five years ago, followed by Sri Emas.
We believe those skills are absolutely necessary.”
camp. “Students discover how they learn best and
Not yet two years old, the school currently educates
Students are inspired by guest speakers, too –
the school then responds to that, so our classrooms
500 children aged 11 to 17, culminating in their
a recent example being Glen Levy, a New Zealand-
are never static,” Anne says. A good example is
IGCSE examinations.
born martial artist dubbed by National Geographic as
in biology, where students learn about respiration
“the most dangerous man on the planet”. “He came to
using Tai Chi. “We find new ways to get the students
Lifelong leaders
give a talk about persisting and going for the dream,”
engaged,” she adds.
Interactive in nature, its approach is different to most
Anne says. “Our students found that really inspiring.”
Together, these approaches create a unique
and focuses on the skills Anne and her colleagues
There are extracurricular activities, too, such as
environment. As Jens observes: “We get great
believe young people will need in the workplace.
Careers Club, where students explore opportunities
academic results, while also nurturing leadership and
“We see ourselves as more than a school because
in industries including hospitality and tourism,
encouraging students to take charge of their learning.”
we want all of our students to emerge as leaders,”
engineering, media and communications, sports
“Overall, our students really enjoy coming to
Anne explains. “In other schools, the idea of being
science, forensic science and more. As part of
school,” Anne concludes. “Once you achieve that,
a leader is confined to a select number of students
the advertising-focused Careers Club, children
you see wonderful changes.”
www.sriemas.edu.my
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Nurtured excellence St Peter’s school in Chile cultivates a supportive Atmosphere that has led to impressive levels of academic and extracurricular achievement
Many schools promise a welcoming and nurturing environment for their pupils, yet with just 371 students in total, St Peter’s School in Chile genuinely lives up to that commitment. The result is a personalised approach that leads to academic excellence. “All the teachers know all the children and take time to cater for individual needs, whether within their subject area or outside it,” says Headmaster James Wilkins. With a 100 per cent pass rate in all Chilean national exams and tests, Cambridge English Certificate exams and university acceptances, this individual attention, combined with the school’s Catholic ethos, has proved highly successful. Bilingual education Originally set up for the families of British expats, most students are now local to the Viña del Mar area of Valparaíso where the school is located, around 125 km north-west of the country’s capital Santiago. They are joined by pupils from Spain, Korea, Japan, Mexico, Argentina, the USA, Colombia, Australia and Britain, as well as visiting exchange students from South Africa. With pupils starting at the age of three in pre-school, all classes are taught in English until the end of junior school. Teaching then switches to a combination of English and Spanish in the senior section to help with exams. St Peter’s has strong links with the local Catholic church, and places an emphasis on moral values for
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all. “However, the school also accepts non-Catholic students,” says James, “providing their families are
“ All the teachers know all the children and take time to cater for individual needs”
willing to promote the values of Catholic teachings, such as family, respect, friendship and responsibility.”
2010, bringing in teachers with higher levels of sports
Nowhere are these attitudes better exemplified
training and changing the curriculum to include
than in the school’s Big Brother scheme, in which
a minimum of two afternoons per week of physical
students from Year 7 to Year 12 are paired up with
activity. Tournaments, championships and friendly
younger children, from pre-school up to Year 6.
matches take place regularly from Year 3 onwards.
Inspired by the area’s earthquake drills, in which older children help to look after the younger ones,
Success story
the scheme has expanded to see students act as
Along with a dramatic improvement in match results,
friends and mentors to one another.
from hockey and football to rugby and volleyball,
“It gives the older ones a sense of responsibility
James believes this emphasis on sport has also
and takes the family idea to another level,” says James.
helped students achieve even greater academic
In addition to taking part in organised activities to help
success, with regular exercise leading to improved
the children get to know each other, senior students
concentration levels. “We also involve our students
are encouraged to join the little ones during break
in debate events, both in English and Spanish, along
times. “The younger ones will go to their big brother
with theatre trips, drama workshops, and science
or sister to resolve any issues they may have,” he adds.
and history conferences,” he adds.
“The older ones also often watch their younger sibling’s
St Peter’s centenary in 2018 is fast approaching,
sports games before playing their own matches.”
and all at the school are determined to maintain its
Indeed, the sports field itself offers a further
high standards well into the future. Teachers undergo
chance to provide pupils with more than a purely
continuous training, attending conferences and study
academic education. “We put a firm focus on sporting
programmes to extend their knowledge of techniques
activities to encourage the students to find ways both
and resources.
to relax and to focus,” says James. “Sport also teaches
As James points out, there’s no danger of anyone
discipline and team work, as well as providing an
resting on their laurels at St Peter’s. “This is just our first
outlet away from the classroom.” As a result, the
100-year anniversary,” he says. “We’re looking forward
school has been expanding its sports activities since
to another century of expansion and improvement.”
www.stpeters.cl
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A global leader Saudi Arabia’s Thamer International School offers superb academic opportunities to its students, with many attaining Top-in-the-World status in their examinations
“Over the past five years, many of our students have been ranked Top in the World in Cambridge International Examinations in maths, physics, chemistry
“ TIS uses a diagnostic testing service to provide feedback on students’ strengths and weaknesses in key subjects”
and a host of other subjects,” says Rana Abdelbaqi, Academic Director at Thamer International School (TIS) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It’s an impressive
and Pakistan.” Along with its cosmopolitan composition, TIS also boasts an array
record that the private, English day school is rightly proud of. It also underlines
of cutting-edge facilities after having moved into new, modern premises in 2008.
the fact that TIS, which serves the city’s local and expatriate communities,
“All of the classes, from kindergarten upwards, now have interactive whiteboards,”
is one of the country’s finest educational establishments.
she continues. “We have six science labs, seven computer labs and three libraries, including an e-library that is stocked with a wide range of English, Arabic and
Attention to detail
Islamic books. We also have a swimming pool, four gyms and a huge auditorium
As a Cambridge International Centre, TIS prepares all of its 3,500 students –
with the latest technology, where we stage celebrations, seminars and workshops.”
who range in age from three to 18 – to sit the IGCSE and Cambridge International Examinations AS and A levels. TIS also uses a diagnostic testing service called
Future leaders
the Cambridge Checkpoint to provide comprehensive feedback on its students’
As well as focusing on the quality of their students’ academic education, the teaching
strengths and weaknesses in the key subjects of English, maths and science.
staff at TIS also encourage pupils to be well-rounded individuals with excellent
It’s a meticulous approach that’s typical of the school’s dedicated attitude to
communication skills. “We prepare learners to be leaders of the future,” says Rana.
each pupil. And with around 400 teachers and 100 teaching assistants, it is
The school hosts multiple extracurricular activities to help nurture students’
indicative of the attention to detail that every child receives throughout their
personal and social development. These include International Day, which
time at the school.
celebrates people and cultures from around the world, and Earth Day, which is
TIS’s primary school is co-educational with a curriculum that includes art,
dedicated to promoting awareness of environmental issues through student-led
French, Islamic studies, IT, language arts, maths, physical education, science
presentations and tree-planting exercises. The school also plays host to a lively
and social studies. It also provides Arabic lessons to non-speakers. The upper
mix of spelling bees, maths competitions, science fairs and Arabic competitions,
school, which ranges from Grade 4 to Grade 12, is segregated by gender and
as well as an arts festival.
teaches English, maths, biology, physics, chemistry, Arabic, French and IT.
Furthermore, to ensure that students are healthy and happy, TIS social workers
In addition, more advanced courses, such as business, accounting, economics
provide them with academic, social and emotional guidance and counselling
and psychology, are offered to senior students.
services. The school also has a full-time doctor and nurse on hand.
The internationally accredited education that the school provides is echoed
With a broad academic curriculum, impressive new facilities and an emphasis
by the global make-up of its student body. “We have pupils from 36 countries,”
on the social, physical, emotional and intellectual development of each student,
says Rana, “including Albania, Australia, Britain, South Korea, Japan, Canada, India
TIS is ideally positioned to guide its pupils to the Top in the World.
www.thamerinternationalschool.com
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Life lessons Vidya Devi Jindal School in India is seeking to change society, and the lives of its students, through education and the development of self-worth
In an ever-changing and growing world, the spirit of service, self-development and adventure is ever present at Vidya Devi
“ Students’ time at VDJS provides them with the truest of compasses and the firmest of foundations”
Jindal School (VDJS). In fact, for its 800 girls, these are the values that form the very core of their learning.
British Council of India’s International School Award for the third
Nestled on the outskirts of Hisar, in the north of India, VDJS
consecutive time. The school is also heavily involved with Round
exposes its students to an exhaustive and dynamic curriculum.
Square, an alliance that lets students take part in international
With subjects ranging from commerce to psychology, skating
exchanges. Currently, VDJS has links with schools in Australia, the
to science, the girls are given free rein to explore a whole host
UAE and the USA, and across Europe. Nandita believes that “it is this
of disciplines and activities.
collaboration and partnership building that endorses an openness to
“But what really sets us apart is our focus on nurturing students’
adopt a global education philosophy. It highlights our commitment
connections with themselves,” says Nandita Sahu, Principal of VDJS.
to fulfil our obligation to society”.
“Underpinning any academic success must be a deep sense of self-worth. Who the girls are, and their connection to this, forms the
Challenging convention
very bedrock of their futures. It is what, I believe, makes them good
And nowhere is this commitment more evident than in how the
human beings.”
school operates within its own community. “The school is situated in a highly conservative area,” explains Nandita. “Patriarchal values
Promoting values
are not only prominent, but the norm. By turning out highly
This approach is enhanced by the school’s residential set-up. Pupils are
educated, self-assured young women, we seek to actively
immersed in an educational experience that allows VDJS to promote
challenge these ideas.”
the values and ideals it wishes them to aspire to – values such as
Nandita believes that the school’s work can significantly
commitment to lifelong learning, a family ethos and a deep sense
help the community gain a new perspective on what women
of morality. “VDJS teaches lessons that go deeper than the students’
can do and how education can lead to freedom and prosperity.
minds,” says Nandita. “We champion a learning that penetrates their
“This makes our mission political and our girls vehicles for social
hearts, their very being.”
change,” she explains.
What’s more, Nandita believes it is this solid foundation that will
As today’s world develops and progress takes hold, it could be
set them up for a fruitful and happy life. “It can never be taken away,”
argued that the school’s focus on culture and community may soon
she explains. “Every student is different, but we find that by the time
be redundant. For Nandita, this is far from the truth. She believes that
they graduate, they have developed a framework for living, a way to
the key to unlocking the future is always found within who we are.
connect with who they are that will stay with them forever. Out of
“What the students do when they leave is much less important than
this is born their success – both culturally and academically – of
who they are,” she explains. “Their time at VDJS provides them with
which there is no shortage at VDJS.”
the truest of compasses to guide them, and the firmest of foundations
More than 90 per cent of students earn places at top institutions
to hold them. What our students find during their time with us is the
in India as well as overseas. And in 2013, VDJS was awarded the
most valuable asset they could own: they find themselves.”
www.vdjs.edu.in
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“These are ambitious young people who want to do something for themselves and for society�
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A study in progress offering an equality of opportunity that spans international borders, Wadi Sofia College in Malaysia provides an excellent learning experience for children of all backgrounds
When Adjunct Professor Datuk Hassan bin Harun founded Wadi Sofia College
the school’s students are currently from Thailand, especially the south. “These are
in 2002, he had no idea how big his undertaking would become. Located in the
relatively poor people, and predominantly girls,” says Professor Datuk Hassan, who
peaceful Kelantan province of Malaysia, the school initially educated just 40 local
wants to offer children a secure learning environment. “The international schools
students. By early 2014, that number had risen to 270, welcoming children from
in Bangkok charge four or five times our fees. That is my contribution – my personal
a range of nationalities and backgrounds. Professor Datuk Hassan’s vision today
contribution: I want to give back to society.”
is global, philanthropic and forward-thinking. “I’ve pioneered a new approach
Such disadvantaged students are thriving at Wadi Sofia. “Our top two students
in Malaysia,” he explains. “It’s about providing the best environment to learn in
last year were Thai. One of these girls is now in China studying medicine,” says
a rapidly changing world.”
Professor Datuk Hassan. “These are ambitious young people who want to do
Key to this is Wadi Sofia’s international outlook. Teachers hail from eight
something for themselves and for society. It’s a marvellous feeling for me to help
countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Singapore and the Philippines. Its students
them achieve, incomparable to anything I’ve done in my life previously.”
are even more diverse, with Malaysian children learning alongside those from
In the future, Professor Datuk Hassan plans to help yet greater numbers by
all over Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Australia. In fact, the school offers two
exporting his successful primary school model into Thailand, establishing Wadi
streams – the Malaysian school and the International school – and an astounding
Sofia primaries within existing private secondaries from 2015. “That way, we can
70 per cent of students belong to the latter, including many local children.
provide international education creatively and innovatively,” he says.
Wadi Sofia’s students are aged between four and 17, and the eldest of these take Cambridge International Examinations’ English-taught IGCSE. A levels
New solar plant
were introduced to the curriculum in 2013, for which high-achieving Malaysian
Another exciting development for the school – which, again, enhances education,
students can receive government funding. Wadi Sofia also teaches Malaysian
philanthropy and internationalisation – is Wadi Sofia’s new solar plant, built on a
qualifications, alongside compulsory English lessons. “Malaysian parents who
20-acre site that is 15 miles from the school. By generating solar energy and selling
send their children to our school tend to be conscious of their child’s future
it back to the national grid, the school stands to raise £1 million a year. This will
in today’s digital, global age,” says Professor Datuk Hassan. Indeed, in September
finance new resources and projects while keeping tuition fees low, which will
2013, Malaysia’s Minister of Education (II), Dato Seri Idris Jusoh, was present at
enable more students from poorer communities to attend. The plant also has a
the Wadi Sofia International Day 2013 and delivered a speech on the importance
technical training facility for older Wadi Sofia students, providing a direct link to
of English-language education for future progress in the digital age.
employment in the growth area of renewable energy. This, in turn, further extends the school’s international appeal, with students from all over the globe already
Oasis of learning
expressing interest in the opportunities the plant provides.
Another draw for international students – especially those from the troubled
Quality education, social conscience and a forward-thinking, international
neighbouring region of South Thailand – is that Wadi Sofia is a safe haven, a quiet
outlook are central to Wadi Sofia’s success. It isn’t hard to see why, as Professor
oasis away from hectic, and sometimes violent, city life. As many as 40 per cent of
Datuk Hassan says, “people fall in love with our place”.
www.wadisofia.edu.my
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