From overcoming language challenges, adapting to a new school curriculum, to becoming a leader – Aisha’s journey at ISS International School is one of empowerment and growth.
Aisha joined ISS International School as a new Grade 2 student in the midst of the pandemic. This was a huge turning point in her life, as she was previously homeschooled for two years in Indonesia. Attending a new school in a new country can be challenging, especially for a child so young. Thankfully, ISS’ supportive and caring environment not only made her transition seamless, but helped her grow and thrive in her new school.
From needing English language support in her early days…
Recognising the support that Aisha needed in English, she was enrolled in ISS’ English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme. ISS’ EAL programme is offered in all sections of its school, which includes an intensive programme for beginners or students with very little spoken English.
Thanks to the EAL lessons and support, Aisha showed tremendous improvement in just six months! She transformed from requiring withdrawal support, to becoming a confident and active participant in her EAL sessions. This improvement was also due to her reading habits as well as the strong peer support she received. She shared, “I started reading a lot more English books which helped with my vocabulary. I also learnt a lot from my friends and teachers who gave me excellent feedback to improve my English. My spelling, grammar and use of interesting words have improved a lot.”
Aisha also shared that this improvement has boosted her self-assurance remarkably. “I’m now confident in creating speeches, writing for various audiences, and I enjoy research,” she said.
… to becoming an active member of ISS’ community
Today, Aisha is a House Captain at ISS and a member of the school’s Student Action Leadership Team (SALT). Her role in SALT requires her to lead the primary school students with innovative initiatives. Aside from these, she’s also actively engaging in the school’s Performing Arts showcases.
Her rapid growth and transformation stem from her seamless integration into ISS’ community. The school is known for providing students with a “kampong” experience, being inclusive, caring, and supportive. “Every class here is like a kampong. The lessons, activities, and games are designed so every student is given the opportunity to contribute and be heard, giving us a sense of assurance and value,” she said.
The school organises yearly camps – Week Without Walls – to expand its students’ learning beyond the walls of the classroom. It’s an outdoor learning experience where students engage in both team and independent work to foster self-awareness and a deeper understanding of their communities. Last year’s camp provided Aisha with a platform to embrace new skills and stretch her potential. She described the camp as more than just an activity to acquire new skills, but about “discovering the power of stepping into the unknown with confidence”.
Aisha’s word of advice to her peers and juniors
“Be confident, try new things and don’t be afraid to approach your teachers,” Aisha advised her new schoolmates. As seen in her journey, ISS is a school where children develop holistically and foster a spirit of exploration, all within a caring and supportive environment.
This post is in partnership with ISS International School.
