4 international schools that are transforming education for the next generation

As the team at ISC Research highlights, “The demand for international education delivered in the language of English is becoming increasingly accessible to families around the world and, as a result, the market is going from strength to strength.”

This is great news for the international school sector, as many institutions are being celebrated for their western-style teaching and vibrant learning environments. In fact, the trend has heavily influenced regional plans for development. As Southeast Asia ISC researcher, Sam Fraser, explains, “In Johor state, which links Malaysia to Singapore, a significant number of new international schools are predicted to open as a result of the extensive development of oil and gas projects, plus a new high-speed rail network which will connect the two countries.”

Due to the rapid growth of international schools, many parents are interested in the benefits of sending their children overseas. Perhaps they have a new job contract lined up and are debating whether or not to make the move; or maybe they want their children to have a unique learning experience that will expand their cultural awareness and enhance their global mindset.

To tackle the burning question of why international schools are so popular – especially in Southeast and East Asia – Study International chose to examine the trend. Here, we uncovered six key elements to the academic transition. One is the low tuition and living costs, since a lot of Asian education providers offer much lower fees than schools in the UK or USA. Another key factor is the global perspective that a student can acquire; in a world that’s increasingly collaborative, a strong understanding of globalisation is an educational gift.

International schools must also provide a leading-edge and contemporary curriculum that suits the needs of the next generation of learners. Once you look past the tropical location, the appeal of learning new languages and the attraction of outdoor activities, you’ll focus on the stability of the school’s academic framework.

That’s why it is essential that your chosen international school has a future-proof curriculum that allows students to grow. It’s wise to unravel a range of future opportunities for your children to reap the benefits. If the school is providing extra-curricular sessions that will tap into their potential, or if they’re introducing students to methods of sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives, your child is likely to leave as a competent and well-rounded individual. After all, the future of our planet lies in the hands of our children.

Here are 4 international schools that are transforming education for the next generation…

GEMS WORLD ACADEMY – SINGAPORE

GEMS World Academy (Singapore) is a K-12 premium international school and part of the GEMS Education global network of schools. Offering the IB continuum of education, PYP, MYP and Diploma programmes, GEMS (Singapore) provides an environment in which creative, entrepreneurial and innovation skills form the bedrock of the curriculum.

GEMS Education is globally-known for producing outstanding international students. GEMS (Singapore) encourages learners to think outside the box. Since this school understands the importance of equal education, learners are treated as individuals, while the syllabus is tailored to suit student needs and aspirations.

At GEMS (Singapore), the diverse pathways offered mean students are ready to go almost anywhere after completing their studies. According to recent reports, graduating Grade 12 students have secured offers from prestigious universities around the world – including the UK’s Russell Group and top institutions in the US, Canada and Europe.

GEMS World Academy (Singapore) wants the very best for your child. From early years education through to secondary, this school has everything covered. With a dynamic language programme, a creative arts programme and a sports programme to promote leadership, the future is bright for all students who study at GEMS (Singapore).

KIS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL – THAILAND

Situated in a warm and caring community near to the center of Bangkok, KIS International School is built on a foundation of knowledge, inspiration and spirit. By maintaining a supportive network of global scholars and caring world citizens, KIS has created a safe learning environment where students develop a strong sense of belonging.

KIS is an incredibly innovative learning hub, providing strong IB programmes for every age. Learners aged 3-12 study the Primary Years Programme, with a dedicated Early Years Center for 3-5 year-olds. For those aged 11-16 years, there’s the IB Middle Years Programme, and for 16-19-year-old students there’s the IB Diploma Programme.

Understanding that no two children are the same, every KIS student is treated as a unique individual. With exceptional academic results, it’s clear that this school has succeeded in its personalized education approach.

With forward-thinking student initiatives and a dedicated KIS Parents Association (KISPA), the school provides unlimited support and opportunities for learners to grow and prosper on the global stage. That’s why so many students and parents are proud to be part of the KIS community.

DWIGHT SCHOOL SEOUL – SOUTH KOREA

Dwight School Seoul opened in 2012. An integral member of the Dwight School community, the South Korea branch carries a longstanding tradition of impeccable teaching standards.

Along with a vast number of international schools worldwide, Dwight adopts the IB approach – the only universal curriculum that allows students to be graded by international benchmarks. As expected, the school supplies the typical four study routes (Early Years and above), yet also adds an exclusive Quest Programme to its syllabus.

As Dwight School is set on educating the whole child, the Quest scheme is there to assist with the institution’s academic strengths and weaknesses, so learners never feel lost or unsure of certain concepts or topics. With a skills development program that backs up their studies, learning doesn’t end once Dwight students leave the classroom.

To take learners to the future, Dwight educates pupils on the impact of technology and innovation. By including interactive tools in lessons and by making use of virtual collaboration with Google apps, the school effectively sustains student attention spans by applying tech-savvy strategies to classroom activities.

YCIS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SHANGHAI – CHINA

The Yew Chung International School of Shanghai provides learning opportunities that help shape our ever-changing world. By constructing a bilingual and a co-cultural learning environment that promotes artistic, spiritual and physical growth, YCIS truly stands out in the international school sector.

As you can see from the virtual tour, YCIS acts as a home away from home for international learners. From helpful school services to support student healthcare and transportation, to prime child protection policies and procedures , this school in Shanghai is committed to keeping students safe.

YCIS values the opinion of its students, that’s why the school has set up a student blog for issues to be discussed and events to be posted. When the school asked Y11 student Vicky to explain why she enjoys studying at the school, she explained that “YCIS offers so many Co-Curricular Activities, from academic programmes to sports, to the arts. I have participated in many of these activities, mostly sports teams, and it’s amazing to be surrounded by people that share the same interests.”

If you’re looking for an international school in Shanghai that respects cultural diversity and allows students to focus on their own individual talents, YCIS is a superb place to start.

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International

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