Parent Cara Mayega shared that Australian International School’s teachers and staff have worked in “true partnership” with her to ensure her children are thriving.
Australian International School (AIS) regards its students’ parents and guardians as full partners. As parents and guardians know their children best, the school works in close partnership with them to support their children’s overall development. Parent Cara Mayega has experienced this firsthand with AIS. “I truly value the partnership,” Cara said, and shared more about her positive experience with the school through a short interview.
Hello, Cara! Can you tell us more about your children who attend AIS?
I have two children attending AIS: Zoe Tong Mayega, who’s nine and in Year 4, and seven years old ZZ Tong Mayega in Year 2.
Why did you choose AIS for Zoe and ZZ?
My children are Australians who have never had the chance to live in Australia. They were born in Indonesia, grew up in Thailand, and are mixed race. So when we moved to Singapore, I saw joining the AIS community as a unique opportunity to introduce them to Australian culture and values. I also wanted to anchor in them values that I find most important: resilience, integrity, and respect. Having worked internationally myself, I have a strong understanding of what sets Australians apart in the global community. I wanted my children to be equipped with those characteristics and values in life.
It was AIS’ school community that ultimately led me to enrol my kids here. We toured other schools as well, but what made AIS stand out were the smiles we received and the warmth of the school community. Other parents and staff all beamed at us and made us feel welcome as we walked around the school.
What can you tell us about the curriculum the school offers?
My children currently follow the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme in AIS’ Elementary School. They will transition to the Australian Curriculum in Years 6-8, where they will pick up key 21st century skills – critical thinking, communicating, researching, and self management – through a diverse range of subjects.
Zoe and ZZ will have the flexibility to choose the academic pathways that best fit their senior studies in Year 9 and 10. The options include the Cambridge IGCSE and Australian Curriculum.
How did AIS make Zoe and ZZ feel welcomed?
Zoe and ZZ started in AIS’ Early Years programme, and had the chance to enjoy the fantastic atmosphere in the school’s Early Learning Village. They love the Pods and Playground; I love connecting with parents at the cafe – a great way to make friends in Singapore. The school provided us with extra support to help my children settle in as they joined in the middle of a term.
Do they enjoy attending the school?
They adore it. During the holidays, they count down the days till they can return to school to see their friends and favourite teachers. In fact, they love AIS so much that we have decided to move closer to the school so they can spend more time there. They’re thrilled about it!
That’s lovely. What about the facilities – how did your children benefit from them?
The facilities are world-class, no doubt about that. Having committed to more co-curricular activities (CCAs) last year, we have come to appreciate the campus and its facilities more, especially the sports facilities. Another reason why we decided to move closer to AIS!
Does AIS have a community for parents?
There are many opportunities for parents to get involved: from joining the AIS Parents’ Association and country groups, to volunteering for class parties. Events like Fish N Chips Night allow families to socialise in a relaxed setting. I personally love to be able to meet up with other parents in the cafe or canteen after school.
Has AIS lived up to your expectations?
It has exceeded my expectations, be it on the academic front or its CCA offerings. The teachers and staff have worked in true partnership with me to ensure my children are thriving. I truly value the partnership, and it means a lot to me as a single parent. This was particularly important during the Covid-19 restrictions. I felt supported, as there was a lot of empathy and understanding. I feel that I can approach the team at AIS at any time, and they will listen to me and partner with me to help my children reach their full potential. The AIS team plays a critical role in my family.
What advice do you have for parents who are looking for a school for their child?
Look at what truly differentiates the school, and how it can define your time in Singapore. AIS offers children high quality support in academics, arts, and sports. There is also a strong community at AIS, with lots of opportunities for the family to engage in school life.
Thanks for sharing with us, Cara!
This post is in partnership with Australian International School.
