Working with the students at UWCSEA showed me what real change-makers look like—full of fresh ideas, energy, and a genuine commitment to making a difference. These traits embody future innovators and leaders.”
Olivia Coates-James, Founder and CEO of LUÜNA
Read the article Beyond the stigma on page 19.
Sinéad Collins, Head of College (Acting)
Celebrating this year’s theme Together We Change
Amala inspires the next phase in UWCSEA’s IB Systems Transformation course
How our UAC Advisors are guiding students one conversation at a time
students connect with the environment through Forest School
East Campus students are mixing sustainability and culture in the Food Technology kitchen
Students step into the world of storytelling with UWCSEA’s Artists-in-Residence (AIR) programme
A kaleidoscope of
UWCSEA students are leading the charge towards period equity
with Scholars 2024
Students are building connections with their younger peers to help them navigate school life
Celebrating UWCSEA connections and reunions COVER IMAGES
Front: A student playing a zebra in Grade 5 Voices on Dover Campus
Back: Group photo of UWCSEA Scholars with their take-home plants at Dinner with Scholars on East Campus
Dunia is published two times a year by UWC South East Asia. Reproduction in any manner in English or any other language is prohibited without written consent. Please send feedback to dunia@uwcsea.edu.sg.
Editors: Sarah Begum, Sinéad Collins, Marielle Descalsota, Sean Gerard, Hazel Ong and Lucie Snape | Photography: Elena Bell, Janrius Rogers, Joseph Tan, Jules Wainwright and members of the UWCSEA community | Design: Nandita Gupta and Grace Hong
UWCSEA Dover is registered by the Private Education Institution (PEI), part of SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) PEI Registration No. 197000825H | PEI Registration Period 18 July 2023–17 July 2027 | Charity Registration No. 00142
UWCSEA East is registered by the Private Education Institution (PEI), part of SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) PEI Registration No. 200801795N | PEI Registration Period 10 March 2023–9 March 2027 | Charity Registration No. 002104 Printed on recycled paper with environmentally friendly inks | MCI (P) 044/02/2024 | MKT-2425 Read. Publish. Share. Subscribe. Visit the newsroom of UWCSEA: perspectives.uwcsea.edu.sg
The roots that anchor us
Bridging memories with possibilities
By Sinéad Collins, Head of College (Acting), UWCSEA
Lately, for reasons that are no doubt obvious to anyone in our College community, I have been thinking a lot about space, memory and community.
The French historian Pierre Nora said that “Memory … can only be understood in relation to the places that carry it.” The idea that in some unspecified way places hold our memories makes instinctive sense to us: our childhood homes may look like houses from the outside, but we know that they are sacred places, carrying inside them the stories and relationships that helped to make us who we are. The day the house gets sold is a poignant day, no matter how long it has been since we have lived there.
In a similar way, physical spaces act as triggers for memories. As alumni walk through our campuses during reunions, we share their moments of recognition or confusion, as they rediscover places that are just as they remember, or search for things that are long gone (that old aircon pool on Dover will never be forgotten, nor will the pre-Santai coffee shop on East, despite them only existing now in photographs!). What becomes clear in these moments is that memory is not only an individual experience but is deeply connected to
community and culture and is, at least partially, embedded in physical locations.
During no other period in our lives do we mark the passage of time so deliberately and collectively as we do when we are at school. For this reason and others, schools are places of continual remembering. From Infant School to Junior School, from Junior Strings to Chamber Orchestra, from overnight at the Zoo to hiking in Ladakh, from blue shirt to white shirt. As our students move through their milestones, marking each one, they create memories that are deeply connected to place—their Junior School classroom, the particular seat they sat on in orchestra rehearsals, who they were next to when they reached the summit, the place they stood for the photo in a blue shirt. For international students who may have fewer natural places of belonging, school gives them the joy of creating, reliving and embedding memories every day, as they walk through the physical places and remember. And this collective remembering creates stability and continuity, shared meanings and—ultimately—community.
Memories, therefore, are part of creating community, and spaces help to anchor those memories. So what happens to our community when our spaces transform?
When we first started talking about the possibility of Dover Campus moving, one of our earliest conversations was about how we would bring our community through any change. Unlike the East Campus adventure, this would not be about building a new community in a new campus, but rather about bringing an existing (and former) community to a new space. The Dover Road site seemed to hold the history, collective experience and memories of generations—how could we hold on to that, even as we planned a bespoke and entirely new Dover campus in a new location?
Ideas came (and are coming) thick and fast. Saplings grown from the trees on Dover Campus, to be planted in our planned new campus; a tent plaza, a globe, maybe even the roof of the main hall to be replicated; make sure you keep the name ‘Dover’ and the Phoenix mascot; don’t forget the many people who have spaces and places with their names on them. And those round tables that are outside the Heritage Cafe and are visible in photographs from when the school first opened? They have to find a place wherever we go next.
Dover and East campuses colleagues alike have been engaging with what it will mean for us as a College when the site on Dover Road is part of history. What’s revealing is that as they
think about what they want to “make sure we don’t lose”, they focus much more on the experience of being on the campuses than on the spaces themselves. They talk about places where people can accidentally bump into each other; where different ages of student can be together; quiet spaces where someone can go when they need to be away from the hustle and bustle; places where parents can get together for coffee, or to swim, or to plan the next community event; green spaces where we can be close to trees (because trees have memories too). What people are really trying to create then, are the relationships and connections that happen in the space, the memories and stories from the space. The place is a chapter in our story, and an important one, but the connections and memories we make are the real narrative. Maybe the places are not the receptacles of memory after all.
Our Dover community has eight more years on its current site. Who knows what Singapore will look like in 2056, when our East Campus lease ends? What we can be sure of though is that the strength of our UWCSEA community identity isn’t tied to any one place. While our favourite spaces may morph beyond recognition, the sharing of culture and perspectives, the connections to mission and one another, will endure.
Together We Change UWC DAY 2024
Sparking conversations, compassion, and collective action
On Friday, 20 September, UWCSEA Dover and East campuses united to celebrate UWC Day 2024, joining UWC communities worldwide under the theme Together We Change. Through the power of collective action, creativity, and global citizenship, this annual celebration brings students, staff, and alumni together in meaningful ways.
At UWCSEA Dover, students engaged in hands-on projects focused on sustainability and creativity. Primary School students learned eco-friendly practices with the gardening team, while Middle and High School students explored community impact through upcycling old uniforms, crafting recycled paper plant pots, and designing changemaker projects. They were also inspired by alumni and guest speakers who shared their own changemaker journeys. Working in groups, students also painted tiles for a large mural symbolising our shared values and connections, creating opportunities for new friendships and deeper community understanding. The day concluded with a Peace Concert and a Global Concerns food fair representing cultures from around the world.
Over at UWCSEA East, students showcased their talents at morning assembly, with performances in circus acts, gymnastics, cheerleading, the pep band, and an energetic rock band. A special Buddy Programme session paired Middle and High School students with younger Primary School students for engaging activities and playtime in their classes. The campus welcomed Epic Arts, a Cambodian NGO and Service partner, that performed for our different school sections, using the power of art and dance to advocate for an inclusive society for individuals of all abilities and disabilities. Everyone then came together to sing U is for United, a song composed by Grade 9 students Skyelar and Moone, capturing the UWC mission’s power to connect communities across backgrounds and generations.
NATURE AS OUR CLASSROOM
Primary School students learn to connect with and protect the environment through Forest School
By Andrea Strachan, Primary School Curriculum Coordinator, Dover Campus
A key component of a UWCSEA education is our commitment to education as a force for a more sustainable future. Through our curriculum, students are introduced to the concept of sustainability and the lens of systems thinking to help them become changemakers, ready to address global challenges and contribute to a sustainable future.
Across the College, K1 to Grade 5 students take part in regular outdoor learning sessions, exploring on-campus green spaces and local parks. These experiences are integrated into their units and Learning Community time, starting in K1, with a focus on understanding how we can show respect for the environment.
With the generous support of a family in our community, K1 students on Dover Campus enjoy a six-week immersive Forest School programme, led by Forest School Teacher and Environmental Sustainability Technician, Kathleen Corner. Taking place for an extended period of time (approximately two hours), these Forest School experiences help children develop a meaningful connection to nature and nurture their role as environmental stewards. Along the way, they build their sensory awareness, physical skills, and self-management, all while having a little taste of adventure!
Connecting experiential learning and sustainability
Throughout Primary School, learning is taken outside. We’re focused on providing all learners with regular exposure to natural environments and outdoor learning experiences, fully integrated as valuable extensions of our classrooms and our Learning Programme.
One of the central concepts from our K1 Sustainability curriculum is that Systems contain related parts that work together as a whole. For example, during their time in the water catchment area, students observe how rainwater shapes the environment, fills the pond to create habitats for creatures like dragonflies and tadpoles, and nourishes trees and plants. They also learn about the impact humans can have on the environment and how to navigate natural spaces with care, safety, and respect.
Meanwhile, Grade 2 students explore the concept of how Parts of a system, being interconnected, depend on each other. Through nature-based learning experiences, they deepen their connection to the natural world and learn to make sustainable choices. During a tour of the campus tree nursery with Sidek Kitan from our Facilities Department, they discovered various plant species, learned the difference between mulch and soil, and practised stem cutting. They also explored how to grow microgreens with guidance from our Environmental Sustainability Technician, Ee Peng Ang. To wrap up their learning, Tamsin Armstrong, our Primary School Sustainability Coordinator and Forest School Teacher, guided them through UWCSEA’s on-site composting programme, inspiring them to start their own worm compost.
Through our sustainability curriculum, backed by research, we guide students to develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Exposure to nature helps individuals build empathy, nurture their wellbeing, and embrace their role as environmental stewards—values that align with the UWC mission. We’re excited to watch our young learners continue to grow, inspired and ready to make a positive impact on the planet!
TO RECONNECT DISCONNECT
Encouraging our community to put down their devices, engage with each other, and enjoy the power of play
As you walk around campus, you’ll find nostalgic reminders of your childhood. These areas, known as No-Phone Zones, feature foosball tables, giant Jenga and other interactive games designed to promote wellbeing by reducing screen time. When Tim Lovatt, Head of Digital Learning on Dover Campus produced the ‘Shut The Phone Up’ podcast last year, a key takeaway from the student voice was: “Going on my phone is never my first choice—I work, I play sport, I do service, I hang out with friends, but when none of that happens, there’s nothing else to do but go on my phone.”
Around campus, students were asked to imagine the kind of social spaces and resources that would help them engage more openly and physically with their friends and peers. In response, Tim worked closely with a range of students and Dover Campus Facilities Committee to determine the what, where, and how of creating the best possible zones. So far, the project has been a game-changer for campus life—filling the air with the sounds of laughter and friendly competition! Students of all ages, even parents, can be seen enjoying competitive or casual games in these spaces.
Since then, the team has been working hard at exploring ways to deepen the project’s impact, including new strategies to support students in managing their use of devices. Plans are also in motion for a Local Service initiative, where students will maintain the equipment and help raise awareness. With community support, they hope to bring these efforts to life.
And this is just the start—more games are on the way! If you haven’t already, we encourage you to visit these fun zones, experience them first-hand, and enjoy the power of play!
What do you do with your free time? If you’re like most of us, you probably find yourself scrolling endlessly on your device. But what if we could change that habit? At UWCSEA, we’re reimagining how we, as a community, spend our free moments by making better use of the spaces on campus. Instead of reaching for our phones, we want to encourage more connection—with one another and with the world around us.
To support this shift, we’ve introduced social play zones on both campuses, designed to encourage meaningful interactions without the distraction of screens. These zones help students find a balance, learn when to engage with their devices and when to be fully present in the moment. With the generous support of our community across Dover and East campuses, these zones are now hubs of activity, filled with laughter, cheers, and face-to-face connections. High School students have led the way in embracing these social play zones, and now Middle and Junior School students are following suit, bringing their own energy to these spaces—all without a device in sight.
EAST CAMPUS DIGITALFREE ZONES
The Student Council has been focused on facilitating conversations around student wellbeing and connection. With wellbeing being a strategic focus in the High School for years, the team worked towards creating personalised spaces where they could unwind and socialise face-to-face. Inspired by a report from Heads of Digital Learning Angela Newby and Tim Lovatt on the need for more offline spaces, the Student Council incorporated the idea into their strategy.
Led by Theo Sweeting, Head of High School Personal and Social Education, with support from the Facilities Team, the project underwent a broad consultation process involving all Student Voice Groups to ensure it reflected the student body’s needs. The Student Council played a pivotal role in finalising the space, transforming it into a true student-driven initiative.
The area now features arcade machines built by Grade 9 students in the Design Technology course, with guidance from Physics and Science teacher David Kann, who runs a Service that recycles and refurbishes old electronics. He provided monitors from internal recycling streams, adding sustainable elements to the project. The space also showcases artwork by students in the Artist-in-Residence programme, adding a creative touch and making it a more inviting environment for everyone.
The Student Council is already looking to expand this initiative, with plans to transform additional campus spaces into cosy nooks designed for quiet reading, sensory experiences, and more. Their goal is to cultivate a cultural shift that promotes face-to-face interaction, playfulness, and a deeper sense of student ownership across campus.
Paving pathways for refugees
One of the UWC values that closely aligns with me is compassion. Having solidarity and being empathetic with others is important. The Systems Transformation course offers an opportunity to make a real change. Its objective is not just for the future, but now. Partnering with Amala is a way to start helping others and create a domino effect.”
Jessi, Grade 11 Scholar from Peru, Dover Campus
Amala inspires the next phase in UWCSEA’s IB Systems Transformation course
Back home in Peru, Jessi remembers seeing dozens of new people in her neighbourhood. At the time, she lived in Huaycán, a small town nestled in the valleys of an ancient archaeological site just outside Lima. It was the height of the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, and thousands of refugees were pouring into Peru, settling in cities and rural towns like the one Jessi lived in.
Now a Grade 11 Scholar at Dover Campus, Jessi wants to support refugees in her hometown, especially youth, in integrating into the local community—and eventually, help build pathways for their futures. She is one of 54 students embarking on the two-year IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) course, Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change, that aims to provide students with the opportunity to engage in real-world solutions to relevant and significant issues. UWCSEA, following UWC Atlantic, is the second UWC College and one of only a handful of schools in the world to offer this new IB Diploma pathway. At the Systems Transformation course launch at East Campus in August 2024, Eivind Lodemel, one of the course designers, announced the guiding question for the first of three units:
Jessi participates in a systems mapping exercise, where she visualises complex patterns and information with fellow IBDP students.
‘How do we improve available pathways for refugees as they enter into entrepreneurship, further education, or employment?’
For students like Jessi, it’s an exciting opportunity to engage in innovative, design-oriented thinking. At the course launch, students kicked off with a hands-on systems mapping exercise, visualising complex data and identifying patterns leading to ways to support refugees. In roundtable groups, they brainstormed solutions and discussed the many challenges refugees face in accessing higher education. Through mind mapping and filming their presentations, they turned their ideas into impactful conversations.
A partnership with Amala in carving a path for the future of refugee communities
In partnership with Amala Education, the first Systems Transformation unit focuses on making positive change in refugee communities through effective student projects that drive new initiatives in awareness and advocacy. Amala is a long-standing partner in UWCSEA’s Service programme, with students leading initiatives through the Amala Global Concerns group on Dover Campus and the Amala Focus Group on East Campus. Together, they have supported the development of Amala’s High School Diploma Programme, which provides educational opportunities for refugee and displaced youth worldwide.
“The partnership with Amala is an obvious connection as we try to break down the walls of the classroom and engage students in authentic partnerships for real-world learning,” Eivind shares.
Louie Barnett, the Education Lead at Amala and guest speaker at the course launch, is deeply passionate about providing refugees access to post-secondary education. In collaboration with Eivind, co-course designer Clayton Chmiel, and their teams, Louie developed the unit’s focus on students creating resource packs, toolkits, and country profiles to support refugees when they graduate from Amala.
The Systems Transformation course is designed to foster interactive learning experiences. By partnering with industry experts like Amala, students can gain valuable insights and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. This projectbased approach allows students to conduct in-depth research on the specific needs of refugees in various countries. To facilitate interactive learning, UWCSEA is hosting a series— ‘Changemaker of the Month’—where guest speakers can connect with students at the East and Dover campuses.
Why developing pathways for refugees matters
Focused on making positive change and forming solutions with real-world impact, the Systems Transformation course aims to develop the competencies and skill sets needed for students to take on independent projects. This starts with a series of scaffolded, teacher-led projects in Grade 11, which
The UWC mission is to use education as a force to unite people, nations, and cultures. There’s that element that you can support refugees in overcoming barriers and bringing people together; it’s a force for good to do that. It’s a challenged community, so overcoming those barriers is pretty important.”
Louie Barnett , Education Lead at Amala Education
are conducted together with interactions with experts and industry partners like Amala.
“It’s an initiative that’s important as the focus is on education. The fact that Amala uses education as a tool and resource for refugees to navigate for themselves is so intelligent, and is the better way to help them,” Jessi explains.
In Jessi’s hometown, the refugee crisis is unrelenting. Today, more than 1.5 million Venezuelan refugees living in Peru—nearly 35% of them are under 19—need access to entrepreneurship opportunities, further education, and employment. To Jessi, the Systems Transformation course offers an opportunity to make a real change and the partnership with Amala empowers her to make the first step in understanding the needs of refugees and creating a domino effect.
The Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change is a two-year Standard Level course equivalent to two IBDP subjects. In the following unit, students, in partnership with Global Green Connect, embarked on a new sustainability-focused guiding question. This collaboration is a step towards shaping the future of IB learning and inspiring the next generation of changemakers.
UNLEASHING THE PHOENIX SPIRIT
The showdown begins!
The Phoenix Showdown is here, and it’s more than a tournament—it’s a celebration of the UWCSEA Phoenix Spirit on Dover Campus! Our student-athletes display grit, sportsmanship, and unity on and off the field—building resilience, embracing challenges, and forging connections that endure well beyond the game. In friendlies against other international schools in Singapore, our UWCSEA athletes bring core Phoenix Spirit qualities and skills to the field—Play Strong, Play Fair, Play Smart, Play to Unite, and Play to Serve—setting a lasting example for future athletes. Look out for the next showdown in January 2025!
Roll up your sleeves and dive into hands-on projects at
UWCSEA EAST INNOVATION
Got an idea brewing? Power it up at UWCSEA East Innovation! The UWCSEA East Innovation Programme has been helping students of all ages tap into their creative potential. The programme now has an exciting new space—fondly known as Innovation@ East—in Block D’s Design and Technology area. Made possible by the generous support of our East Campus community and partners, the programme has become a central hub for turning student-led ideas into a reality. Encouraging new ways to create, solve, and explore, students come here to pursue their passions, tackle real-world challenges, and connect with industry leaders.
Integrated areas: Hands-on learning, Service, Activities, and Sustainability
“Whether they’re building intricate LEGO structures, coding robotics, engineering go-karts, or using Internet of Things (IoT) technology to cultivate herbs in a robotic farm, this space is meant to inspire a culture of play and experimentation.”
– Matthew Weaver, Head of Innovation, East Campus
Innovation@East features interconnected zones that support a variety of student-led projects, seamlessly blending hands-on learning with key elements of our Learning Programme, including Sustainability and Service. These projects encourage students to think creatively, sharpen their problem-solving skills, and apply
their knowledge in innovative ways.
For instance, the ‘F1 in Schools’ programme challenges students to apply their engineering, physics, and design skills to real-world problems in full-scale F1 racing, potentially leading to scholarships and university opportunities. This programme, like many in the space, encourages students to approach challenges from multiple angles and think beyond traditional classroom boundaries. Meanwhile, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines and 3D printers allow students to shape their bold ideas, with opportunities to work on unique materials like carbon fibre and bioplastics. With a focus on collaboration over competition, Grade 9, 10, and 11 students have established an eSports programme, while our younger LEGO Exploration engineers tackle problem-
solving through inter-school robotics challenges, building both skills and friendships along the way.
Incorporating Service into innovation, students work with Lion Befrienders as part of their E-Textiles programme, teaching adult learners how to create wearable tech such as emoji cushions that light up and provide soothing sensations for comfort. A familiar oldschool arcade machine was also built in this very space! Created from recycled parts by students across Middle and High School grades, this project goes beyond gaming—it’s a fun, collective effort that promotes wellbeing, all while making a positive impact on the student community.
Guess what! We’ve only just scratched the surface—flip the page to discover what’s in store for everyone at the Innovation@East space!
Sustainability
Tackling sustainability through problem-solving, student deepen their environmental awareness, repurpose electronics, and design projects such as underwater robots for practical tasks, finding innovative ways to make an impact.
Activities
The Activities programme has been integrated into the space, offering fun ways for students to collaborate and innovate—from student-led eSports tournaments that champion inclusivity, to LEGO League competitions building teamwork, and creative projects like drone-building, where students explore real-world engineering and robotics.
Hands-on learning
Putting their classroom knowledge practice, students oversee projects engineering to design, with real-world applications such as ‘F1 in Schools’ and fabrication tools like CNC 3D printers, all focused on building can support them in their future
Innovation@EAST is a space beyond the classroom to innovator’s mindset, all while UWC mission. Equipped with to create meaningful products, students learn to address drive positive change within
learning knowledge into projects from real-world Schools’ programme machines and building skills that future pathways.
Service
Service projects take an innovative twist as students use tools such as the Bernina sewing machines to create E-Textiles for the elderly in partnership with Lion Befrienders. By repurposing electronics, they also promote sustainability and support broader community initiatives.
space where students can step to explore and nurture an while staying rooted in the with the tools and confidence products, services, and systems, real-world challenges and within the community.
Our role is to help students advocate for themselves and guide them to become successful in their post-UWCSEA journey. It’s beautiful to see young people think about their future opportunities. After their parents and grandparents, we’re probably the most excited about where they end up!”
Taking the next step, together
How our UAC Advisors support each student’s future options, one conversation at a time
By Shruti Tewari and Pamela Wetzell, Heads of University Advising, Dover and East campuses
For many students, UWCSEA is more than just a place of learning—it’s a home, a place where they feel supported, understood, and encouraged to grow. As they approach the next steps in their journey—whether that’s university, a gap year, or something else—we’re here to help them take those steps with confidence.
At the University Advising Centre (UAC), our team of 13 advisors across Dover and East campuses brings in-depth experience in university admissions and a broad range of sectors including law, career counselling, and teaching. We work alongside students, guiding them as they explore their options, reflect on their goals, and develop the skills they’ll need to thrive. Whether their focus is on academic success, personal growth,
or both, it’s important to us that they and their families feel informed, confident, and ready for the exciting next chapter ahead.
Imagining
futures and shaping journeys
The UAC begins working with students in Grade 9, laying the groundwork for curiosity and self-discovery as they explore their interests and think about the future. Students are introduced to Maia Learning, a digital resource platform for universities worldwide. By Grade 10, this exploration becomes more intentional; students map out potential careers and identify their strengths through career interest profilers. These online tools, paired with our advisors’ guidance, help them make thoughtful choices about their future pathways as they prepare for Grade 11 and life after UWCSEA.
Once students reach Grade 11, our support is more personalised. Beginning in January, we meet one-on-one with each student, getting to know their ambitions, hopes, and concerns, and forming relationships that allow us to guide them and their families through each step. This is not just about applications and deadlines but about truly understanding and supporting each student as they plan their future pathway.
Taking the pressure off for the path ahead
We know that for many families, the university application process can feel overwhelming, and it’s normal to have concerns. That’s why we’ve created plenty of opportunities for families to talk things through—whether it’s exploring options, addressing worries, or just having a chat about what’s
Shruti Tewari, Head of University Advising, Dover Campus
ahead. Our goal is to ease any anxieties and help everyone feel confident during this exciting time.
To help keep the conversation going, we host a range of community events. We organise UAC Conversations (Dover) and Cup of College (East) for informal chats between parents and advisors, Coffee Mornings for discussions with Heads of Grade, and Transition Evenings with advice from parents who’ve been through the process. Through events like the Lion City Fair, hosting over 140 universities, and the annual Careers Fair, organised with our Parents’ Associations, students and families have a chance to explore career options with university representatives, professionals, and industry experts. Plus, Careers Fair 2025 is just around the corner on Saturday, 18 January—another exciting chance to explore future possibilities!
This next chapter is just the beginning, and we’re honoured to guide students as they take their first steps toward becoming changemakers.
UAC tips for parents!
Here are three simple ways you can help your child navigate the next big step in their journey:
• Be understanding in your approach
This whole process can bring up a lot of feelings, so patience and sensitivity go a long way. Be mindful of how you talk to your child about their future and universities. Whether they’re excited, nervous, or unsure, make sure they feel heard and supported. Sometimes, just listening can mean the world.
• There’s no one right path
It’s easy to think university is the only way, but remind your child that there’s no one-size-fits-all. Whether they go to university, take a gap year, or explore something else, there are plenty of ways to reach their goals. Encourage them to follow their instincts and embrace their own path with confidence.
• Get comfortable with change
The future’s unpredictable, and that’s okay! Help your child stay open to new ideas—careers and opportunities may come up that we can’t even imagine yet! Teach them to adapt, see change as a chance to grow, and stay excited for what’s ahead.
We view the university application process as a real opportunity for students to think about who they are, their identity, and what’s important to them. As advisors, we hope students will gain skills in self-reflection, self-advocacy, and informed decision-making through the university application process.”
Pamela Wetzell , Head of University Advising, East Campus
A pinch of sustainability, a dash of creativity
From cultural flavours to sustainable practices, students on East Campus are mixing it all in the Food Technology kitchen
I hope this course—and space— will equip our Grade 9 and 10 students with the knowledge and abilities to make informed decisions about their diets and contribute positively to global food systems. I anticipate that our students will learn the necessary skills with a sense of agency and independence to live out our mission through food.”
Michele Naidu, Head of Food Technology, East Campus
Food has the power to bring people together, telling stories of history, culture, and identity. In UWCSEA East’s Food Technology kitchen, students have the opportunity to explore these stories firsthand, learning not just how to cook, but how food connects us all.
The kitchen hosts the exciting Food Science and Nutrition course, one of the courses offered in our UWCSEA Grade 9 and 10 Programme. 60 Grade 9 and 19 Grade 10 students discover the complex and colourful world of food through hands-on learning experiences designed to encourage innovation and discovery in food, nutrition, and wellbeing.
Centred on experiential learning that hones each student’s skills in research, analysis, and communication, the programme offers students the opportunity to cook meals for class. By cooking a traditional meal that’s significant in their culture, students celebrate the diversity of our community.
In a space designed for experimentation, students step into an open-concept kitchen each lesson, equipped with stainless steel countertops and modern tools, where they can transform their creativity—and taste it too! When analysing ingredient samples, students place their glass slides under Motic Microscopes to learn more about the biochemical properties of the food they consume and its nutritional values. With this knowledge, students can design healthier meal plans that are not only personal but also exciting to create and share.
With our commitment to a sustainable future as a major focus of the course, students actively engage in putting this vision into practice. Using Cara food waste processors, they transform fruit and vegetable scraps into compost, which then fertilises our gardens, ensuring nothing goes to waste. They also explore different food preservation techniques with Rommelsbacher dehydrators to turn fruits like mango and apple and vegetables like sweet potato, into nutritious snacks with unique blends of seasoning. They then explore the entrepreneurial side of food production, like marketing and retail—building real-world skills while championing responsible stewardship. In the world of food, and especially in this kitchen, nothing goes to waste—not even an idea!
Scan the QR code to try one of our coconut cake recipes!
Beyond the stigma
UWCSEA students are leading the charge towards period equity
Change starts with curiosity. At UWCSEA, you’ll find the support and resources to bring your ideas to life.”
Imagine a world where everyone has access to the essentials they need, free from worry or stigma. This vision drives UWCSEA’s student-led focus groups in Service learning, empowering students to tackle social justice issues by collaborating with local and global organisations to create real-world advocacy campaigns and sustainable solutions.
One such group, Generation. Education. Period. (GEP), is working to combat period poverty, end menstrual shaming, and promote sustainable sanitary products. Their partnership with LUÜNA, a woman-led social enterprise focused on menstrual health and gender equity, provides free menstrual products for Grade 4 to 12 students on both campuses.
Creating change together
Key members, including Sachi and Jia (GEP Co Chairs), Tanay (Student Council), and Soumya Tandon ’24 (former GEP Chair), teamed up with LUÜNA’s CEO, Olivia Cotes-James, and GEP teacher facilitator, Melanie Wilson, to make this initiative a success. Together, they installed dispensers in a number of restrooms, including a gender-neutral restroom, offering eco-friendly menstrual products for students. Students have shared how much they appreciate the easy access, saying it’s made a real difference in their daily school life. As the team shared, “This initiative is about normalising conversations around periods and building a supportive, inclusive community.”
“Working with the students at UWCSEA showed me what real change-makers look like—full of fresh ideas, energy, and a genuine commitment to making a difference. These traits embody future innovators and leaders.”
– Olivia Coates-James, Founder and CEO of LUÜNA
From pilot to progress
After a successful pilot on East Campus, Dover Campus Student Council members Rehan and Julie, both in Grade 11, took the lead in expanding the initiative to their campus, with support from Rebecca Smith (formerly High School Vice-Principal and now Middle School Principal). Sanitary products are now available in designated restrooms on both campuses, making sure students always have access whenever they need it!
“Working with the student team and LUÜNA to bring this project to life has been both eye-opening and rewarding. We’ll continue collaborating to ensure gender equity in period care becomes a reality at UWCSEA.”
– Melanie Wilson, GEP’s teacher facilitator
Looking ahead, the team is committed to raising awareness of menstrual health and potentially integrating it into UWCSEA’s Personal and Social Education (PSE) curriculum. This project is one of many led by UWCSEA students who put Service learning into practice; sparking real action in a community where inclusion and support are tangible for everyone.
A window to expression
Through UWCSEA’s Artists-in-Residence (AIR) programme, students step into the world of unique storytelling traditions.
Have you ever wanted to learn directly from artists who inspire you? Each year, UWCSEA invites talented local and international artists of various art forms to take part in the AIR programme. Through immersive sessions, students receive guidance from these experts, refining their skills and exploring new ways to express themselves—whether through dance, physical theatre, clowning, or other creative disciplines.
Kathakali Physical theatre
One of the exciting highlights this year across both campuses was the Kathakali workshop, which gave Grade 12 IBDP students at both Dover and East campuses a chance to dive into the world of this vibrant Indian dance-drama. Led by Kalamandalam Biju from Bhaskar’s Arts Academy, Singapore, students learned the art of storytelling through stunning makeup, dramatic gestures, and rich traditions. It wasn’t just about mastering a performance style—it was about stepping into a culture, exploring its stories, and discovering the dedication it takes to convey such powerful narratives.
Students took their creativity to new heights with Alys Hill from Liminal Physical Theatre in New Zealand. Alys introduced them to exciting techniques like the Suzuki method, Butoh, and aerial performance, challenging them to express themselves and tell stories through movement. These workshops pushed students to think beyond words, using their bodies as powerful tools for communication. Alys’s sessions not only refined their physical skills but also highlighted the importance of adaptability and courage in the creative process, making it an inspiring and dynamic experience for everyone involved!
An Artist-in-Residence programme in Drama and Theatre opens a world of creativity, and cultural exchange, and allows experiential learning. Students get to engage directly with the diverse traditions that shape global theatre. With this programme, we want students to feel inspired when approaching their art forms with both intellectual depth and fun, creating a richer, more inclusive understanding of their craft and the connections with the world around them.”
Karen Balthazar
, Head of Drama and IB Theatre, Dover Campus
Being in my second year of IB Theatre, I realise the importance of watching artists perform to better my own work. These workshops inspire us because each form reveals a new world of creativity and narratives that were previously unknown to our community.”
Trisha, Grade 12, East Campus
Clownery
Bringing a dose of playfulness to the programme, Shanice Stanislaus—a renowned clown and actor—invited students to explore the world of clowning with a twist of humour and spontaneity. In these lively workshops, students learned to embrace risks, make mistakes, and bond through shared laughter. Stepping outside their comfort zones, they discovered how vulnerability fuels resilience, boosting their confidence and communication skills in the most playful way.
Verbatim theatre
Students discovered the power of spoken word in sparking change, guided by The Paper Birds, a UK-based company known for verbatim theatre. Their performances transformed real-world issues and personal stories into expressions that spoke deeply and challenged audiences to think. Students learned that theatre isn’t just a reflection of society—it’s a voice for change, amplifying perspectives and emotions.
Theatre traditions
Scan the QR code to view the full story and other artists in our AIR programme!
Mark Hill’s workshops introduced global theatre traditions, from the intense movements of Japanese Butoh and Noh to the rhythmic pulse of Balinese Kecak. Students didn’t just learn the steps—they absorbed each tradition, discovering how theatre, much like spoken word, communicates through rhythm, movement, and emotion, creating a message that resonates far beyond words.
The power of spoken word | Dover Campus
Moving to the rhythm | Dover Campus
Laughter as connection | East Campus
Sharing stories, cultures, and experiences
Dinner with Scholars 2024
Always one of our community’s favourite evenings of the year, this year’s Dinner with Scholars event had possibly the largest turnout ever!
I was excited to share my experiences and the challenges I’ve faced at UWCSEA and many of the guests I spoke with offered valuable advice on the questions I should regularly ask myself to stay focused on my goals. I can’t wait to participate again next year!”
Ronald, Grade 11 Scholar from Malaysia
Nearly 60 scholars from both Dover and East campuses joined over 100 other guests for an evening filled with stories, laughter, and delicious food. The potluck desserts, each one reflecting a little piece of home, were inspired by personal traditions and cultures—celebrating the diversity that’s at the heart of our UWC mission. Filling the room with such positive energy, parents, staff, alumni, and supporters gathered to hear how receiving a UWCSEA scholarship has truly impacted the scholars’ lives.
From table to table, the conversations bounced around—from how UWC’s National Committees work and how scholars are selected, to favourite subjects, campus life with its challenges and, heartwarming moments. Students also met and connected with some of our community’s leaders, picking their brains about careers, and industries, and discovering surprising connections over shared hometowns and languages. Stay at one table long enough and you’ll start learning a new language or two! To top it off, the dinner wrapped up with some delicious desserts, including treats from Sri Lanka, Ukraine, Japan, and many other countries—a sweet ending to a night filled with meaningful conversations and plenty of laughs. We could not do what we do to support these talented young learners and leaders without the generous support of our community. Thank you to everyone who joined Dinner with Scholars, and to all who have supported our students through donations to the Scholarship Programme and as host families through the years. The dinner is a wonderful reminder of what we can achieve together as a community, all through the power of education. We’d love to have you with us at next year’s Dinner with Scholars!
LET YOUR BUDDY GUIDE THE WAY
Finding your way in a big community can feel overwhelming, but having an older student to help guide you can make all the difference. Through the Buddy Programme and Sports Coaching Service, our Middle and High School students are stepping up as mentors; building connections that help younger students feel supported and confident.
A buddy for a friend
On East Campus, each High School Mentor class is paired with a Buddy class from the Primary or Middle School. These one-on-one pairings create opportunities for meaningful conversations, learning, and trust-building between older and younger students to help connect our community. They provide younger students with a positive role model to look up to, while also offering valuable academic support. Our High School Buddies gain practical skills such as organisation when planning for activities that engage their younger peers while also honing social skills like empathy, which are essential for leadership.
At first, it’s mostly light games and simple conversations, but as time goes on, the younger buddies really start to open up. They begin asking questions like, ‘What’s High School like?’ or sharing stories about their day. It can be tricky to bridge the age gap, but by being patient and curious, we create a bond, learning to support one another, and it’s amazing to see their confidence blossom as they become more comfortable.”
Rhianna and Rivan, Grade 10, East Campus
Across Dover Campus, students of all ages are connecting through mentorship and leadership in Buddy Programmes. As Playground Buddies, Middle School students spend several days a week helping younger students with friendships and encouraging inclusive play. Boarding students join in as well, becoming Boarding Buddies after school, helping younger students with reading and homework, or playing games, from sports to board games.
In High School, students take on even greater responsibilities. Grades 9 and 10 students volunteer in Infant School classrooms, and by Grade 11, they step into leadership roles, mentoring younger volunteers and guiding classroom activities. After their training on child safety and how to work with young children, they spend time each week reading, playing educational games, and helping with outdoor activities. These moments with their younger peers are a highlight of the week for many, offering them opportunities to not only gain leadership skills but to grow a deeper understanding of working with children.
Training alongside student-athletes
From the courts to the fields, our Junior School students participate in sports like basketball, rugby, tennis, and more, guided by enthusiastic High School senior student coaches across both campuses. On Dover Campus, student coaches bring Primary School students together, set goals for the session through a focused lesson plan, and lead drills, such as shooting practice. After practising these skills in small-sided games, the sessions end with a recap to reinforce the day’s lesson. Through their coaching, these High School students not only support and encourage their young learners but also help them navigate both the challenges of sports and their UWCSEA journey.
“This idea of giving back to our community makes Service incredibly meaningful and fulfilling. This positive community allows new students to feel like they have joined a safe, encouraging and empowering environment which is what the UWCSEA values are all about.”
– Lara, Grade 11, Dover Campus
“I get to support these young athletes as they navigate the challenges of learning a new sport. As an older mentor, they can relate to me on their UWCSEA journey, and they feel comfortable approaching me for guidance. It’s rewarding to see them grow both as athletes and individuals.”
– Tianyu, Grade 9, Dover Campus
Cross over to UWCSEA East, and our students are embracing mentorship and participating in leadership training through the Dragons Student Leadership Programme. Grades 8 to 12 leaders commit to at least 20 hours of volunteer work, guiding younger peers in sports activities and gaining handson experience in communication, planning, and teamwork. The workshops are accompanied by reflective journalling to help strengthen their learning, and successful participants even qualify for internship opportunities, preparing them for future challenges and possible career pathways.
“Coaching younger students has been an incredible experience—I’ve learned so much about being a role model and balancing my own growth with theirs. With my refereeing certificate, I now referee for Middle and Primary School games, and coach on weekends. It’s rewarding to see the younger students apply what I’ve taught them, but I’ve also gained a deeper understanding of the sport. I’m not just an athlete anymore; being a coach and referee has added new dimensions to how I see the game.”
– Krissy, Grade 9, East Campus
UN NIGHT AND
A kaleidoscope of cultures, stories, and connections—that’s what brings our UWCSEA community together. Each year, we come together to celebrate this diversity at CultuRama on East Campus and UN Night on Dover Campus. These vibrant events showcase performances, art, and traditions, providing students with the opportunity to express themselves through dance, music, and storytelling. By honouring both personal and shared histories, we create connections that go beyond cultural differences and reflect the strength of our community.
AND CULTURAMA
Across campuses, over 500 students united to represent more than 30 cultures. They invested countless hours perfecting their creative expressions to commemorate the diverse cultures of their peers. At the Global Concerns (GC) Merchandise and International Food Fair on Dover Campus, and the CultuRama Bazaar on East Campus, UWCSEA families came together to enjoy cultural delicacies, handmade GC merchandise, and the warmth of community. Students and parents worked hand in hand, setting up and manning the booths to make a meaningful impact on communities in need.
We can’t wait to do it all again next year!
EAST CAMPUS CLASS OF 2014 REUNION RECAP!
On 27 September 2024, East Campus hosted its first-ever milestone Reunion, welcoming back nearly 40 alumni from the Class of 2014! Travelling from 12 different countries, including some all the way from Brazil, alumni gathered to relive old memories, reconnect with familiar faces, and celebrate their UWCSEA journey.
The Reunion started with a roaring welcome from the East Campus dragon mascot before the group was led down a reverse Grand Walk around campus to kick off the celebration.
Reunion highlights!
An assembly to remember Alumni gathered in the Auditorium for an assembly that brought back memories of their student days. One standout moment was Grade 9 student Jackson, who might have looked familiar to the Class of 2014 boarders. Jackson, the son of then Houseparent, Ted Cowan—was just a little one back then, and his presence sparked plenty of nostalgia. Special guests Head of Campus Cathy Jones, Head of College Nick Alchin, and former Head of East Campus James Dalziel also joined in the fun, sharing stories before wrapping up the assembly with a group photo. Say cheese!
Alumni spotlight!
Celebrating UWCSEA connections
Tasty favourites from the canteen
No reunion is complete without Sodexo favourites, and East Campus’ Chicken 65 is always a popular choice! Alumni gathered with current students for lunch, catching up with both former and current teachers who stopped by to say hello. Among the guests were former Board Member, Charles Ormiston, and Simon Thomas, former Head of Facilities and Operations, both of whom played a key role in shaping East Campus into what it is today. It was a great chance to share stories, enjoy a meal, and reflect on the journey of the campus.
Touring our green spaces
Our alumni joined Head of Environmental Sustainability, Aloni Cahusac, for a campus tour. They ended their tour with a hands-on permaculture activity guided by Trisha ’25 where they got up close and personal with our Chickens at the Bus Bay—an unforgettable, feathery end to a green adventure!
spotlight!
connections and reunions
In September, 20 Grade 11 and 12 students had the chance of a lifetime at Blackstone Singapore. As students entered the boardroom, they were greeted with so many UWCSEA connections!
Chairman Gautam Banerjee ’73 gave the student group a warm welcome, and Managing Director and Dover Campus parent and Board Member, Charmaine Chin ’99, moderated a panel featuring Disha Mohta ’21, a Summer Analyst, who shared her journey. Senior Associate, Victoria Kongoasa, also joined the panel—her mother graduated with the Class of 1990!
We all enjoyed hosting the students today and were impressed by their enthusiasm and thoughtful questions.” – Charmaine Chin ’99
That’s not all! Current East Campus parents and Managing Directors, Eugene Min and Geoff Stockwell, made the experience even more memorable. Eugene gave an in-depth company overview, and Geoff led the students on an exclusive behind-the-scenes office tour.
Beyond the Blackstone visit, students also had the chance to explore the Institute of Policy Studies and Novartis. And with that, we wrap up our company visits for Term 1! Next term, we look forward to new visits with SAA Architects and Google.
UWCSEA Careers Programme
Many of these visits wouldn’t have been possible without the invaluable support from our UWCSEA community of parents, alumni, board members, and partners—opening doors for our students to engage directly with incredible organisations. Our network of amazing alumni does more than provide a glimpse into the working world; they inspire and shape the next generation of UWCSEA students, extending their impact far beyond the classroom!
Visit our Careers Programme page or contact us at internships@uwcsea.edu.sg. Join us and inspire the leaders of tomorrow, today!
Our High School and undergraduate internship programme is expanding! Scan the QR code to explore partnership opportunities and discover how you can support students as they prepare for their futures.
Ways to get involved: Offering internships | Hosting company visits | Career advice | Guidance on field of study or university choices Interested?
BRINGING A PIECE OF SUSTAINABILITY HOME
Nearly 60 scholars from Dover and East campuses joined over 100 guests for Dinner with Scholars, an evening of conversations, new connections, and shared stories. As the evening drew to a close, students left with plants in hand—tiny living symbols of sustainability and growth—carrying with them the spirit of the night and the bonds they had formed within the community. Read more on page 22.
