Annual Report 2010-2011 United Nations International School Hanoi
Contents From the Head of School ...................................................................... page 3 From the Board of Directors ................................................................ page 4 UNIS Hanoi Profile .................................................................................. page 5 About our Students ...................................................................... pages 6 & 7 About our Faculty ......................................................................... pages 8 & 9 Student Learning:
ISA .................................................................................. pages 10 & 11
IB Diploma ................................................................... pages 12 & 13
PSAT/NMSQT and SAT Results ........................................... page 14
University Acceptances ....................................................... page 15
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon visit ............................ pages 16 & 17 Community Action and Service Learning .......................... pages 18 & 19 Co-Curricular Activities: ASA, MRISA and APAC ................ pages 20 & 21 Our UNIS Hanoi Community .................................................. pages 22 & 23 (School Community Organisation, Community Education Programme, Alumni)
From the Head of School… UNIS Hanoi is an exceptional place to learn and never has that been more true. With every year, our commitment to educating the next generation of global citizens drives us to new heights and the year 2010-2011 was a year dominated by our exciting construction and building projects. We managed to complete our new Centre for the Arts and Sports Centre on time and on budget. And with those new buildings in place we are now able to raise the bar in our Arts and Physical Education/Sport Curricular and Co-Curricular programmes. These facilities have been in the master plan for many years and it was gratifying to watch them finally be completed. We were pleased to be able to help Hanoi celebrate its 1,000th birthday with a variety of activities and programmes including special recognition during our UN Day celebration. The creator and driving force behind the record breaking mosaic project along Hanoi’s dyke road, Ms Nguyen Thu Thuy, was our guest speaker and inspired us with her passion and love for her city and her country. But the highlight of the year for many was the historic visit to our campus of the Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr Ban Ki-moon and his wife on October 29, 2010. The students were fully energized by his presence and in the midst of his remarks, he declared his position as the Honorary President of UNIS Hanoi. His visit was magical and his words were inspirational (see p. 16 & 17). We hope that the publication of this Annual Report not only gives you an idea of our progress and achievements during the 2010-2011 school year, but also gives you a glimpse of what lies ahead in the future. As Ban Ki-moon stated, “This is the time to talk about our future.” Respectfully,
Dr. Chip Barder Head of School
Accreditation Update 10-11 First Year Report UNIS Hanoi is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, receiving its initial accreditation in December 1999. Full 10 year reaccreditation was given in November 2009 and in 10-11 UNIS Hanoi completed its First Year Report. The report includes progress so far and plans for the future in the areas of: Philosophy and Objectives, Curriculum, Governance and Management, Staff,
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
Student Support Services, Resources and Student and Community Life. The report was approved by CIS/WASC and noted that of the visiting team’s recommendations, 48% had already been completed and 52% were in progress. Since the reaccreditation visit there has been much growth at the school – both in terms of student numbers, faculty numbers and facilities. These major changes were anticipated and have had a very positive impact on the whole school environment.
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
From the Board of Directors… On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am very happy to share with you the 2010-2011 Annual Report. This was another exciting and inspiring year for the Board of Directors. Notable achievements included most visibly the building projects, which will provide superior Arts and Sports opportunities for our students, and the October visit of the UN Secretary-General who termed himself the “Honorary President” of UNIS Hanoi, reaffirming the deep relationship between the United Nations and UNIS Hanoi. The Board of Directors is entrusted with fulfilling the mission of the school and providing for the long term future of UNIS Hanoi. During 10-11 we began implementation of the first year of the Strategic Management Plan. This five year plan emphasises our continuous and consistent striving for excellence in all aspects of our school. Other major Board decisions approved in 10-11: • • • •
Additional classes to increase school size eventually to 1,150 students The establishment of the first Advancement Programme at UNIS Hanoi The establishment of an Advisory Council A new reserves policy and changes to the Constitution
You will see the same striving for excellence reflected in the following pages of this report. The Board of Directors would like to take this opportunity to applaud the commitment of the Head of School, administrators, faculty and staff of UNIS Hanoi and thank them for making our school a place where students want to learn, to explore and to serve others. We would also like to congratulate all students, and in particular the IB Diploma students, on their achievements which are detailed in the report. Best wishes
Sarah Garner Chair of the Board of Directors 10-11
UNIS Hanoi Profile 10-11 Mission Statement
Senior Administration
Our mission is to encourage students to be independent, lifelong learners who strive for excellence and become responsible stewards of our global society and natural environment, achieved within a supportive community that values diversity and through a programme reflecting the ideals and principles of the United Nations.
Head of School Middle/High School Principal Middle/High School Assistant Principal Elementary School Principal Elementary School Assistant Principal
Dr. Chip Barder Chris Vincent Christina Powers Bob Horton Jan Humpleby
Director of Finance Director of Operations
David King David Porter
Guiding Principles
Enrolment
(as of October 2010)
The United Nations principles as applied to the school are to: • Promote peaceful solutions to problems. • Develop friendly relations among children and adults of different nationalities. • Promote cooperation in problem solving in economic, social, cultural and humanitarian matters. • Encourage respect for fundamental freedoms and equality for all, without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion.
ECC (Discovery to Kindergarten) Elementary (Grade 1 to 5) Middle (Grade 6 to 8) High (Grade 9 to12) Total Students
119 354 196 227 896
Accreditation
Council of International Schools (CIS)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO)
East Asia Regional Council of Overseas Schools (EARCOS)
European Council of International Schools (ECIS)
National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)
Association for the Advancement of International Education (AAIE)
Mekong River International Schools Association (MRISA)
Asia Pacific Activities Conference (APAC)
Affiliation UNIS Hanoi Board of Directors 10-11 UNIS Hanoi is a not-for-profit private school that is governed by a Board of Directors. The Board is the policy-making body of the school, responsible for governance of the school and the appointment of the Head of School. The Board is composed of nine members, of whom three are appointed by the United Nations Resident Coordinator, two are elected by parents and four are appointed by the Board of Directors. All members are volunteers and we are deeply grateful for their time, talent and commitment to the school.
UN Appointed: Lotte Brondum Vanessa de Mestre, Vice-Chair (until December 2010) Nina Koren (from January 2011) Rafael Ramirez, Treasurer Parent Elected: Harry Kamian Jim Packard Winkler Board Appointed: Sarah Garner, Board Chair Barry Knaggs, Secretary; Vice-Chair (from January 2011)
Preben Hjortlund Ray Mallon Ex-officio Member: Dr. Chip Barder, Head of School Faculty Consultant for the Board: John Cushing Board Assistant: Pam Rickard
College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB)
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
About our Students
Students by Nationality 07-11
UNIS Hanoi is proud to be a learning community that values diversity, inclusivity and actively encourages equality for all. We are a school that welcomes into our classrooms students from more than 50 nations every day. As such our students learn with a truly international backdrop to all that they discover, create and share. UNIS Hanoi has an admissions cultural diversity cap in place, set at 20% per nationality in order to protect this core element of our mission. In addition, students at UNIS Hanoi come from a variety of family backgrounds with United Nations and diplomatic families, expat corporate families, expat NGO families and Vietnamese families from all sectors. As with most international schools, our community is highly transient with students arriving and departing on a rolling basis throughout the year according to their parents’ employment. However we welcome that the average length of stay for our families has extended from 2.3 years in 08-09 to 3.1 years in 10-11.
Average length of stay for students at UNIS Hanoi: 08-09 09-10 10-11
2.3 yrs 2.4 yrs 3.1 yrs
“The students at UNIS Hanoi are responsible for creating an environment that provides plenty of professional rewards for a teacher.” Rebecca Bechard, MSHS Science
Students by Division 10-11
Students by Division 08-11
“Students here are an extremely internationally diverse population. They are tolerant and compassionate in their interactions with each other, and most importantly, they are really hyped about LEARNING!” Sarah Quigley, MSHS Dance and Drama
Students by Grade 10-11
Students by Nationality 10-11
Enrolment 10-11 Fact File ECC (Discovery to Kindergarten) Elementary (Grade 1 to 5) Total ES Middle (Grade 6 to 8) High (Grade 9 to 12) Total MSHS UNIS Hanoi Total
119 354 473 196 227 423 896
• 56 nationalities • 35 mother tongue languages
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
Students – No. of Years at UNIS Hanoi 08-11 Students by Gender 10-11
“The diversity of faculty and students gives me the sense of living in a miniature world; where all get along, build a community and share the same citizenship.” Abigail Lopez, MSHS Spanish
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
About our Faculty Faculty by Nationality 10-11
UNIS Hanoi is proud of its talented and committed teaching faculty who give so much to our students and who are so central to UNIS Hanoi being “much more than just a school”. Of our 117 faculty, nearly half have Masters or Doctorates in Education or their chosen subject, and the large majority have between 10 and 25 years teaching experience when they come to UNIS Hanoi. Our faculty is as committed to Service Learning as our students (see p. 18 & 19) and it is that, combined with outstanding facilities and UNIS Hanoi’s unique status as one of only two United Nations Schools in the world, which attracts many of our team. We recognize that the best teachers are those that continue to learn, and as a result we invest heavily in on-going Professional Development for all. In addition to the many Professional Development groups that exist within our teaching community on an ongoing weekly basis, in 10-11 faculty attended nearly 130 different workshops and conferences with International Schools from across the world, both here in Vietnam and globally.
“I have experienced a great amount of growth here, due largely to the outstanding caliber of teaching partners I have had; all of whom have taught me something new and opened my eyes to new ideas, viewpoints and understanding.” Andrea Law, MYP Coordinator
Faculty by Marital Status 10-11
Faculty by Qualifications 09-11
We also welcomed to UNIS Hanoi nine external consultants to come and work with our Board of Directors, administrators, teachers and our Vietnamese staff during dedicated Professional Development days in the school calendar. Ours is a “learning community” in so many ways. International Schools are transitory communities, but we are pleased that the average length of stay for our faculty has risen year on year from 3.2 to 3.7 years in the last three years.
Faculty – No. of Years in Education 08-11 “For me as an educator, working at UNIS Hanoi is a unique opportunity to embrace and engrain the UN Principles throughout all areas of our inquiries, as well as support a truly global vision of the future for my students.” John Cushing, Grade 3 Homeroom Teacher
rning capacity building lea “UNIS is an all-round re to work with truly focused su institution. It is a plea ues. Teaching in itself is a great ag lle akes working and professional co warding but what m human re ry ve d an n sio es d prof the focus on peace an at UNIS special is that students forming a picture of ds to rights education lea accurate, tolerant, open and ore m their world that is ly something.” al peaceful. That is re n, MSHS Music Brendan McGibbo
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
Faculty – No. of Years at UNIS Hanoi 10-11 Faculty Fact File 10-11 • • • •
UNIS Hanoi employed 117 faculty staff in 10-11 52 ES teachers, 51 MSHS teachers and 14 All School Faculty from 16 nationalities taught at UNIS Hanoi Average length of stay at UNIS has increased from 3.2 in 2008 to 3.7 in 2010.
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
International Schools Assessment (ISA) UNIS Hanoi has been using the ISA programme for six years as one way to measure student learning through standardised testing. The ISA programme is designed especially for students in international schools in Grades 3 to 10. It is based on the internationally endorsed reading and mathematical literacy frameworks of the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). It is used by schools with an international focus whose language of instruction is English. Over 53,000 students from 289 schools in more than 50 countries participated in ISAs in 2010-11. Approximately 60% of those participating in 10-11 were non-native English speakers. Because the ISA is designed for students experiencing many different curricula, the assessment is geared to the skills and understandings that research suggests underpin major curricula throughout the world. The frameworks for reading and mathematical literacy are based on those used for the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) which has been developed and endorsed by all OECD countries and is currently used by 65 countries to measure and compare student performance across countries.
ISA
· UNIS Hanoi students sat their tests in October in 2008, 2009 and 2010 · Every student in grades 3-9 completes four assessments · Math tests measure: o Quantity (number and measurements) o Shape and space (geometry) o Uncertainty (estimation and data probability) o Change and relationship (algebra) · Reading tests measure retrieval of information, interpretation, reflection and evaluation · Two writing genres are assessed: Narrative (A) and Expository/Argument (B) · Both writing tests measure content, spelling and vocabulary competencies · The figures represented are the mean of UNIS Hanoi students for each year · ‘All other schools’ is the mean from all students assessed world wide • PISA data is collected on a three-year cycle; 2009 is the latest data and compares scores only for 15-year-olds • (ESB) English Speaking Background and (NESB) NonEnglish Speaking Background student results are shown with All Students results opposite
ISA Writing A Results 08-10
ISA Math Results 08-10
ISA Writing B Results 08-10
ISA Reading Results 08-10
10 UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011 11
IB Diploma 2011 Results
UNIS Hanoi IB Diploma Average Score with % of Graduates as Candidates 01-11
UNIS Hanoi offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma programme. It is a two year, university preparatory programme of studies culminating in external examination and moderation. The Diploma is awarded to students who gain at least 24 points, subject to certain minimum levels of performance across the whole programme and to satisfactory participation in the Creativity, Action, Service requirement. The highest total that a Diploma Programme student can be awarded is 45 points. It is a qualification recognized and respected by the world’s leading universities. 2011 was an exciting year for the Diploma Programme at UNIS Hanoi. It was the first class in many years where 100% of the students sat the full Diploma examinations. This is all the more impressive in that we are a non-selective school. The IB Programme is designed to be challenging in all areas with students required to take six different subjects across a broad range of academic disciplines, in addition to Theory of Knowledge, an Extended Essay and CAS involvement. The IB diploma programme encourages the education of the whole child through to their final year at school, in line with our mission and the belief at UNIS Hanoi that all students benefit from a rigorous course of study and exploration.
UNIS Hanoi Total Graduates & Total IB Diploma Candidates 01-11
We are especially proud of our results and know that they could not have been achieved without the dedication of the teachers that guided the students through the programme.
IB Higher Level Subjects – UNIS Hanoi & World Averages 2011
IB Examination Results Summary Class of 2011 • 19% earned 40 points or above • UNIS Hanoi class average score: 34 points • World average score: 29 points • Highest UNIS Hanoi score: 43 points • 100% sat for the IB Diploma • 45 of 46 earned the Diploma • UNIS Hanoi was above the global average in 36 of 43 subjects/levels 12 UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
IB Results 2006-2011 • 197 Diploma candidates • 98% pass rate • School average of 34 points • Average grade obtained at subject level: 5.44 out of 7
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011 13
SAT and PSAT/NMSQT Results The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) is a globally recognised university admission test that may be used to assist universities to determine whether they will accept a particular student. It is used mostly for American colleges and universities, but can be useful for admission to other university systems. It is important to note that SAT scores are just one of many factors that colleges consider when making their admission decisions. The SAT assesses students’ skills in, and knowledge of, reading, writing and mathematics. • The critical reading section includes reading passages and sentence completions. • The writing section includes a short essay and multiple-choice questions on identifying errors and improving grammar and usage. • The mathematics section includes questions on arithmetic operations, algebra, geometry, statistics and probability At UNIS Hanoi many of our students will sit this set of standardised tests, usually in Grade 11 and/or Grade 12. In addition, all Grade 10 students will sit the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). It is also a standardised test that provides first hand practice for the SAT as well as providing feedback to teachers about a student’s academic capabilities. UNIS Hanoi is proud that the PSAT/NMSQT and SAT scores of our students have been consistently above the world average for many years.
SAT Results 09-11
PSAT/NMSQT Results 09-11
14 UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
University Acceptances Class of 2011 USA
CANADA
EUROPE
Baruch College Binghamton University Brooklyn College Clark University College of Staten Island College of William & Mary Drexel University Emerson College Grand Valley State University Hofstra University Hunter College Lewis and Clark College Mount Holyoke College North Carolina State University North Park University Northeastern University Ohio State University Parson, the New School for Design Pratt Institute Purdue University West Lafayette School of Art Institute of Chicago School of Visual Arts SUNY Buffalo SUNY New Paltz Temple University Texas A&M University The University of Colorado at Boulder University at Buffalo University of Connecticut University of Massachusetts in Boston University of Miami University of Minnesota Twin Cities University of Oregon University of Richmond University of Tampa University of Virginia University of Washington Western Michigan University
McGill University University of British Columbia*
Erasmus Hogeschool Brussels University of Leuven Vrij University of Brussels Åbo Akademy University Berlin Humboldt Freie Universität University of Antwerp Universität Berlin Universität Heidelberg Universität Mannheim University of Lund University of Uppsala
UK Bristol University Bristol UWE City University of London European School of Economics Imperial College London Lancaster University Leeds Metropolitan University London School of Economics Loughborough University Manchester Metropolitan University Napier University Edinburgh Nottingham Trent University Queen Mary, University of London Robert Gordon University School of Oriental African Studies Sheffied Hallam University Strathclyde University Univeristy of Bath Univeristy of East Anglia University of Birmingham University of Edinburgh University of Exeter University of Kent University of Leeds University of Leicester University of Manchester* University of Oxford University of Portsmouth University of Sheffield University of St. Andrews University of Sussex University of Warwick University of York Westminster University, London
AUSTRALASIA ANU Canberra University of Melbourne University of Queensland University of Sydney Massey University Monash University Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
ASIA Hongkong University Keio University Sophia University Waseda University Seoul National University Nanyang Technology University Art Design Media School Thammasart University
VIETNAM British University NOTE: Universities in bold denote those students are attending. With a * denotes more than one student. Not all decisions were known at time of print.
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011 15
“The right moment to talk about our future” On October 29, 2010, UNIS Hanoi welcomed Secretary General to the United Nations, Mr Ban Ki-moon, his wife and a delegation from the UN to our campus. Introducing Mr Ban Ki-moon, Head of School Dr Chip Barder said: “It is with pride and excitement that we are gathered here today to welcome our very special guest. As one of two United Nations schools in the world, we are honored to host the leader of the organisation who sponsors our school here in Hanoi… This is an historic day in the life our school, and your presence is an inspiration to us all. We are now, more than ever, not only aware of who you are, but also more aware of how important, how close, and how significant our relationship is with the United Nations… We are all part of the UN family and it has meant so much for you spend time with us today. ” Mr Ban captivated more than 1000 gathered students, faculty and parents from the UNIS Hanoi community with the inspirational story of his own childhood education in poverty-stricken Korea with no classroom and no supplies other than those provided by the UN – the organization he now leads in combatting poverty and conflict. Addressing the students, he said: “This is the right moment for us to talk about our future. “I am here to make this world more peaceful, more developed, happier and more prosperous for you because I believe that you are the leaders of tomorrow. While I am working as a leader of today, soon it will be your world; soon you will be the leaders of the world tomorrow. “My duty is to deliver this world to you more prosperous, more secure and more peaceful. That is a noble mission, but that is not an easy mission. I know that it is very difficult. We have so many problems; so many poor
ts all the use Ban Ki-moon wan of the “I liked the visit beca ss g and he’s the big bo countries to be carin countries.” Elijah, Kindergarten he said no -moon is clever and Ki n Ba e us ca be od “It’s go fighting.” rten Joon Gun, Kinderga
people, so many sick people, so much fighting and we are working very hard to prevent this fighting. The UN often talks about the future of our children – for you, your future, your development, your jobs. “There was an International Year of Children in 2001 – this year is the International Year of Youth – they are all designated because we are concerned and we are working for the future for all of our children. Let us work together.”
oon visit and ed to have Ban Ki-m cit ex ry ve l al e er w e ing a Mass “W ol song for him, form flected ho sc le ho w a rm rfo pe so re ople singing! This al Choir of over 1000 Pe of 10/10/10 when Hanoi turned ns the Hanoi Celebratio rt of this ally special to be a pa down re as w It d! ol s yr 00 10 alked and his wife both w n oo -m Ki n Ba t. en ev d me for the my hand and thanke his wise k oo sh , ge sta e th off m . I learnt so much fro special performance g peace to the world. Mr and in words of his role to br asured role models.” tre e ar n Mrs Ban Ki-moo Music Teacher ES , ry Sally Oxenber
Reminding his audience that he is also the Honorary President of UNIS Hanoi he continued, “You have to have a big dream, aim high but have your two feet firmly on the ground. That means you have to have big ambition but you have to be realistic. Know your world, where you are living, where you are studying, that is very important. Then go up those stairs, step by step to lead to great success. Then you will be a leader for tomorrow.” UNIS Hanoi is grateful to the staff of the United Nations in Vietnam for making this visit possible. We are especially thankful to Mr John Hendra, UN Vietnam Resident Coordinator and Ms Caroline den Dulk, UN Vietnam Communications Manager for their support.
person. meet such a man in cause he “It was a pleasure to be t bu ld or tus in the w Not because of his sta rce of energy throughout ive fo nts, exuded such a posit Looking around stude i. no Ha IS UN at e his tim d and nts were mesmerize colleagues and pare indescribable. ite qu ng that was hi et m so by d te iva capt werful experience.” An incredible and po S PE Teacher SH Adrian Hubbard, M
16 UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011 17
Community Service Learning The Community Service Learning Programme at UNIS Hanoi is central to our Mission and Guiding Principles and is firmly embedded in both curricular and cocurricular activities from Elementary through High School. There are scores of opportunities for our students of all ages to become more closely involved with the Vietnamese community from fundraising events to teaching English to organizing activities for children at orphanages and with aid organizations. Service also extends into a student’s school and personal life. It is about looking outside yourself and giving to others which brings its own learning and intrinsic rewards. This is a service learning programme which benefits our own children as much as the people with which they are involved and is a learning experience for all. As an IB World School our students in Middle and High School are required to complete service hours, but as you will see below those students systematically chose to do many hours in excess of the requirement, often double the hours. In Elementary School every student is involved in service learning with events such as the Walk-a-thon,
Music Academy and Scholarships Festive Fundraiser, Tet Bag/Bags of Love Appeal and afterschool activities. We also support classroom service projects through curriculum units of inquiry. At all ages we encourage the students to be a part of the organization and running of the programme or the events. In addition our faculty and staff are also widely involved with service learning, assisting students but also for their own development.
Programmes 10-11 included: Direct Action Paper Recycling UNIS Translator Habitat for Humanity Soccer Coaching Helping Hands Thuy An Village MSHS Peer Tutoring Green Zoom Nhat Tan English Teaching Peace Village Staff Assistants Bo De Pagoda Operation Smile Dance for Life Tam Hiep Cancer Hospital Friendship Village SOS Orphange KOTO Sport & Swimming Education for Nature Sausage Sizzle Vietnam Donxa Blue Dragon Thuc Nghiem School MS Community Garden Walk-a-thon ECERP Animals Asia Foundation Grade
No. of Students
Total Hours
12 11 10 9 8 7 6
46 55 60 66 66 65 65
1,655 2,720 674.5 2,643 1,971.5 1,683 1,564
Average hrs per student 36 49 11 40 30 26 24
Minimum Required 25 25 20 20 15 10 10
Average Additional hrs +11 +24 *** +20 +15 +16 +14
***Note: The Gr9-10 service requirement is combined. So many students completed more than their required hours for both years whilst in Grade 9 that much of the Grade 10 service was optional.
18 UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
The UNIS Hanoi Music Academy is a resource for all UNIS Hanoi students, parents and staff to learn a new instrument or to train their voice or to improve their musical skills working directly with talented local musicians. The Academy instructors are members of the Vietnamese Symphony Orchestra, professors from the Music University in Hanoi and local expatriates. · 30 specialist teachers are available for voice, guitar, woodwind, brass, percussion and string lessons. · Approximately 300 students including 14 scholarship students from Nhat Tan school (see opposite) take part. · Grade 4 and 5 Instrumental Music programme can run in conjunction with the classroom music curriculum.
The Music Scholarship Programme helps UNIS Hanoi provide the foundations of a school band in order for the transient school population to experience a band programme, by involving local students. The programme currently offers 14 Vietnamese students from the Nhat Tan School, the opportunity to learn an instrument, play in a school band and learn English. Once these students finish high school it is hoped that they will have developed adequate skills to enter the Hanoi Conservatory of Music and pursue a music career if they wish. Indeed, one of the 2011 Nhat Tan graduates is now studying at the Conservatory. The program is a long-term venture and is jointly funded by UNIS Hanoi and the SCO, which has committed to supporting the program for three years (see p. 23).
ECERP at UNIS The Early Childhood Education Renovation Programme (ECERP) at UNIS Hanoi celebrated its 10th year sharing professional development with teachers at local schools in Hanoi. The programme’s name was adopted from an initiative launched in 1998 by the Vietnamese government to improve quality of early childhood education through a ‘renovation program’. UNIS Hanoi was approached
by the Hanoi Department of Education and Training with a request to support Vietnamese kindergartens in Hanoi in implementing their new ‘renovation programme’. UNIS Hanoi made a firm commitment to support this initiative which enabled ECERP to start in the 99-00 school year. Since then, this programme has enabled professional development of more than 100 educators to impact on thousands of children in Hanoi. In 10-11 alone, 16 teachers were involved in the programme with 726 students directly benefitting. The programme invites Vietnamese kindergarten teachers and their administrators to work alongside our ECC teachers with support from our own Vietnamese staff, one day per week for a period of 8 weeks for two sessions during the year. Pre and post school visits are made by the UNIS Hanoi team to help the Vietnamese educators implement what they have learned. These local schools then become centres of excellence, sharing their teaching and learning with other teachers in their own school and from other schools in Hanoi, extending the reach of the training to thousands of children. The programme has developed in its reach and effectiveness over the decade involving administrators as well as the teachers and celebrated its 10th Anniversary with a special Vietnamese administrators’ conference held for the first time at UNIS Hanoi.
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011 19
After School Activities (ASA)
Asia Pacific Activities Conference (APAC)
As part of building well-rounded students, UNIS Hanoi provides a wide range of After School Activities for students in Kindergarten through Grade 12. It provides students from all levels – beginners to advanced – with opportunities to try new activities or extend their skills in their areas of interest. It provides the school with an opportunity to prepare for performance events, such as drama and music activities, and prepare sporting teams for competitions. Overall, it gives our
The Asia Pacific Activities Conference (APAC) is an inter-scholastic activity programme for students in Grades 9 to 12, participated in by 12 member schools. Many disciplines are included in APAC: Theatre, Band, Choir, Orchestra, Forensics (debate), MUN, Volleyball, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Tennis, Swimming, Soccer, and Track and Field. 10-11 was the first year for UNIS Hanoi to join APAC. We participated in the featured activities as an introduction. UNIS will expand its participation in activities in the 2011-2012 school year.
students a chance to mix with a range of other students from our diverse population. At UNIS Hanoi, we see this as an important part of student life but it’s important to note that our activities are optional and some families may choose to achieve these goals in other community settings. It is important for students to select and attend those activities which they feel committed to as well as provide interests outside the academic setting.
Sports & Cultural Exchanges (MRISA) Mekong River International Schools Association (MRISA) was founded in 1998 to allow international schools in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and most recently Thailand to meet for sporting events and a cultural exchange. The sports exchanges allow students from different schools around our region to come together and make new friends as well as compete in different sports. Six sporting exchanges are held
-11 MRISA Eventsge10 at Northbridge
• Cultural Exchan International School of Phnom Penh (Cambodia), November 2010 • Senior Volleyball at International School of Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), November 2010 • Junior Basketball at UNIS Hanoi, November 2010 • Senior Soccer at International School Eastern Seaboard (Thailand), February 2011 • Junior Volleyball at Saigon South International School (Vietnam), February 2011 ior Basketball at Vientiane Sen • International School (Laos), April 2011 • Junior Soccer Tournament at International School Eastern Seaboard (Thailand), May 2011
20 UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
over the year, three for Middle School (Grade 6-8) and three for High School (Grade 9-12) at different schools within the region. The sports involved are basketball, soccer, and volleyball. The MRISA Cultural Exchange takes place once a year and alternates between schools. Each cultural exchange has a specific theme which is the back-bone for the workshops and performances presented.
ools MRISA MembInteerrnatSch ional School
• United Nations of Hanoi (Vietnam) ) • Hanoi International School (Vietnam h • International School of Ho Chi Min City (Vietnam) • Saigon South International School (Vietnam) h • International School of Phnom Pen (Cambodia) of • Northbridge International School Cambodia (Cambodia) s) • Vientiane International School (Lao ern East • International School Seaboard (Thailand)
APAC Swimming and Basketball UNIS Hanoi made its debut with the APAC Swimming hosted by Shanghi American School, and the APAC Boys and Girls Basketball hosted by Western Academy of Beijing in January. Swimming: Our students swam against 150 swimmers from competing schools. There were many new UNIS Hanoi records set during the three days of the meet. Four of our students made it into the finals and the UNIS Hanoi girls and boys teams won the Sportsmanship Award.
APAC Member Schools
American International School of Guangzhou - China Brent International School Manila - Philippines Canadian Academy - Japan Concordia International School Shanghai - China Hong Kong International School - China International School of Beijing - China Seoul Foreign School - South Korea Shanghai American School – Pudong - China Shanghai American School – Puxi - China Taejon Christian International School - South Korea United Nations International School of Hanoi - Vietnam Western Academy of Beijing - China
Basketball: The UNIS Hanoi girls and boys teams both came in 5th place each winning two games. Our girls’ team was honored with the Sportsmanship Award which is voted on by the other teams. APAC Theatre Each school was required to share a short 8 minute performance following the theme of Celebration at the event hosted by the Taejon Christian International School, Korea in February. This is what our students had to say about the event: “We learned about Korean culture and theatre and had the opportunity to mix with amazing people and create a Koreaninfluenced performance. For me, I had an amazing time at APAC theatre: something I’ll definitely remember forever.” Charlotte “I was excited going back to my home country with my friends but at the same time was nervous about our play. However, our play turned out to be great and also made the audience laugh. Korea was really fun and gave me a whole new experience. I will definitely do APAC Drama again next year.” Pio APAC Band Thirteen UNIS Hanoi students had the privilege of attending the APAC Band Festival which was hosted by Western Academy of Beijing in February. At the festival the UNIS Hanoi musicians were part of a 96 member Symphonic Band which comprised of six APAC schools with students from China, Japan and Korea. Guest conductor, Dr John Lynch, from the United States directed the ensemble for three days of intense and challenging rehearsals before a final performance.
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011 21
Community Education
School Community Organisation
UNIS Hanoi is committed to serving the greater Hanoian community. Community Education is a programme of activities and sports that UNIS Hanoi offers to the wider local community of all ages and runs throughout the UNIS Hanoi school year over four sessions.
The UNIS Hanoi School Community Organisation (SCO) represents all parents, students and teachers of UNIS Hanoi. During the 10-11 school year, the SCO focused on building community spirit through providing many social events for parents, teachers and children and also raising funds through annual events. Many of the events involved a collaboration of parents, students and staff and the SCO would like to thank all those involved for their contributions. Funds raised from SCO activities are used to support charities, school projects and long-term funding to the UNIS Hanoi Music Academy Scholarship programme.
We believe that learning and growth should take place throughout our whole lives. Our aim is to provide opportunities for continuing education and to encourage and promote a deeper understanding of our host country and of other cultures. In 10-11, 42 hard working instructors and volunteer coaches shared their time and skills with
more than 1,200 participants in a range of more than 100 classes and courses. New for 10-11 was the expansion of our offerings for local Vietnamese children with new classes in Science Fun and Craft Making. More than 300 local Vietnamese adults and children were able to benefit from using the UNIS Hanoi facilities and programmes in 10-11 with an average of 8 hours each spent on-site. Non-UNIS children feature heavily in all the sport offerings with 50% of those taking tennis from the wider community, and as many as 72% for the baseball programme. A center piece of the Community Education Programme is Saturday Soccer which sees more than 350 children between the ages of four and 16, from throughout Hanoi, on the UNIS fields every week and culminating in session tournaments with the focus on fun. Typically nearly 40% of the players are nonUNIS children. Our thanks to the 60 Volunteers, three Coordinators and three Assistants who make this possible.
Highlights from the 10-11 SCO calendar included: • • • • • •
Snack Sales Boutique sales New Family Welcome events Book and Bake sale raising more than $2,500 UNIS ES Tea Towel fundraiser (Operation Smile) An exciting, international Spring Fair fundraiser in support of the school’s CAS charities and raising more than $15,000 to assist SCO projects (see below). Thanks to sponsors SOS International, Saigon Van, Carlsberg and Coca Cola for their generous support. • The Annual SCO Ball – A glamorous community event raising $2,500 for the UNIS Music Academy Scholarship Programme. Thanks to Intercontinental Hotel, Carlsberg and Red Apron for their generous support. Programmes funded by the SCO 10-11 included:
UNIS Hanoi’s Worldwide Family This was the year that UNIS Hanoi reached out to our worldwide community of alumni. We consider as alumni, any student who has attended UNIS Hanoi, their families and former faculty. We hope that our alumni will always
remain connected with each other, with UNIS Hanoi and with Vietnam. To that end a dedicated alumni area on the website was launched in 1011 and two alumni reunions were held; the first in Hanoi in December and the second in London in
January with the hope that these will be the first of many. For more information about our alumni program, contact our Director of Advancement, Emma Silva: doa@unishanoi.org
• • • • •
Music Scholarship Programme $4000 BBQ for CAS $949 Vietnamese art for the library $1000 Cushions for the library $1000 See what I see digital cameras for ECC $3360
Thanks to the countless hours from our SCO volunteers and the Executive Committee: Elementary School Chair Middle School/High School Chair Middle School/High School Vice-Chair Treasurer Secretary
Kylie Aman Philippa Wood Chernelle Senanayake Sarah Watson Ruth Clewett
For more information contact: SCO@unishanoi.org
22 UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011
UNIS Hanoi Annual Report 2010-2011 23
United Nations International School Hanoi Address Postal Address Telephone Fax Email Web Site
Lac Long Quan Road Phu Thuong Ward Tay Ho District Hanoi, Vietnam GPO Box 313, Hanoi Vietnam (84 4) 3758 1551 (84 4) 3758 1542 advancement@unishanoi.org www.unishanoi.org
UNIS Hanoi Faculty and Staff 2010-2011