“As our children are all born in Singapore, we like the idea of a school being able to enhance their understanding of our Australian roots, culture and values.”
Like many parents, Nicola Gennaoui’s criteria when selecting her child’s school includes a curriculum that provides equal importance to academics and extracurricular activities. But it’s also about being part of a community that’s welcoming and accommodating – especially for new families moving to Singapore. This is what led Nicola to enrol her eight year-old daughter, Lyla, to the Australian International School (AIS). Lyla’s currently in year two and enjoying her time at school. Here’s what else the happy mum has to say…
What were the most important factors for you in selecting AIS?
We were looking for a school that provided an all-around mix of strong academics, sports, extracurricular activities, as well as a vibrant social environment and community feel.
What was the ultimate deciding factor that led you to choosing the school?
As our children are all born in Singapore, we like the idea of a school being able to enhance their understanding of our Australian roots, culture and values. Being on the Australian curriculum calendar is also beneficial for the eventual transition back to Australia.
How has AIS lived up to your expectations?
The school has done really well. Lyla is always excited to go to school, loves her teachers and has a lovely group of friends. I really like that they try to balance the kids out and consider their overall well-being.
What does your child like most about attending school?
Lyla loves the diverse range of activities throughout the day which combines academics with social and physical development, as well as including a focus on mindfulness throughout the day.
What advice would you give other parents trying to choose a school?
Do your research and find what best addresses your top priorities, be it academics, creative offerings, sports, extracurricular or a combination of things.
What do you value most about AIS?
Apart from providing a solid academic platform, the school offers a very welcoming and accommodating community which can be very valuable especially for new families to Singapore. The Australian International School is a great school because it provides an all-around development experience for children incorporating an approach that includes academics, creative, social, and community endeavours.
How have the school’s facilities benefitted your child?
When Lyla was in the Early Learning Village (ELV), the playgrounds and swimming pool were fabulous. Everything Lyla could ever want or need was at her fingertips. Now in Elementary, the facilities are still great but due to Covid, it has been hard to completely enjoy these facilities due to restrictions.
What does AIS do in terms of building a community for parents?
AIS adopted the Classlist App which is a very easy tool for parents to communicate, especially when the dedicated “Class Parent” needs to funnel new information from the school directly to the parents. There’s also a Parent’s Association which always does its best to include parents in the school. Whether it’s an outing, a get-together, a cookbook of parents’ favourite recipes or coming together to learn new skills, they’re always trying to build the community. Covid has temporarily stopped most of the physical gatherings, however, they’ve pivoted really well to online gatherings and webinars etc.
How did AIS make your child feel welcome?
Lyla started AIS in the Early Learning Village. She had the most wonderful, caring and engaging teacher, Ms Eromie, who is now the Head of ELV. Ms Eromie was a huge factor for Lyla feeling instantly part of the AIS community and felt beyond welcome and at ease.
If you’d like to know more about AIS, do get in touch with them via their website.
This post is in partnership with AIS