Oh, how far Chatsworth International School has come. From a humble beginning with just a handful of students, it’s now one of Singapore’s most popular international schools. Read on for its story!
A school is nothing without its people. This is especially so for Jennifer Gay, the impressive head of the tribe. The founding principal of Chatsworth International School, she has built up the school from scratch over the last 30 years. That’s right, Chatsworth is celebrating its 30th anniversary this academic year (2024/2025), and it’s going all out to celebrate!
Over the years, Chatsworth has transformed into an award-winning school that’s incredibly popular among parents and students alike. This is in big part thanks to Mrs Gay’s stellar leadership, beliefs, and values — we sat down to chat with her and find out more about her journey.
What motivated you to set up Chatsworth International School?
I’ve always steadfastly championed the values that I hold dear to my heart. I was previously part of an international school’s parent-teacher association, and a member there suggested that I should start and run a school with these same values. And that kicked it all off!
I’m an experienced educator of international students of all ages. I strongly believe that every student — no matter their abilities, race, gender, language background, or cultural allegiance — should be given the opportunity and support to achieve their potential. By 1994, I was struck with the need to create a new international school that would offer such an environment — one that was headlined by a suitable curriculum and passionate teachers. This, to me, would be the best form of international education.
Backed by a solid team of teachers and investors who believed in me, Chatsworth International School opened its doors in 1995. And we’ve only gotten better and better!
We noticed that the school’s symbol is a phoenix. Could you tell us more about this?
The story of the phoenix is inspiring, to say the least. When it dies, it turns into ashes. Another phoenix is then born from the ashes, and becomes one that’s even more spectacular. To put it simply, Chatsworth is my phoenix. Even as the school continually changes to keep up with the demands of the future’s education (as it must!), the spirit of the phoenix and its attributes will always stay alive.
On 18th October 2024, we kicked off our 30th anniversary celebrations in conjunction with Cultural Celebration Day. We all had a fantastic time and, for the first time ever, our brand new phoenix mascot made a surprise appearance during the parade too!
Thirty years have passed since you built Chatsworth. If you could change one thing about the school, what would it be?
As cliché as this might sound, I wouldn’t change a thing! The Chatsworth community is lovely, and really captures the way I envisioned the school. In my visits to Singapore and the school after my retirement, I’m proud to see that this commitment has continued under the inspiring leadership of Dr Tyler Sherwood and his terrific management team.
If you ask me, Chatsworth is a bright multi-faceted diamond that will never lose its value. It will continue to shine ever more brightly over time!
Do you have any favourite memories of Chatsworth that you’d like to share?
I have so many wonderful memories. I fondly recall a young lady who joined us in High School — she was a Singaporean experiencing some learning difficulties. Despite believing in the local school system, her parents were exploring the option of sending her overseas to study. They approached Chatsworth for possible enrolment, and multiple members of the school worked with the student to help her settle in and adapt to school life. The way the community came together as one truly shows how strong the school’s spirit is.
Do you have anything to share with the teachers, students, and parents of Chatsworth to commemorate its 30th anniversary?
Just look at how far we’ve come. As Chatsworth continues to strive towards a better educational experience, I’m confident that all its students will experience a world-class education. This is made possible by the highly qualified and caring leadership team and teaching staff, who adopt a nurturing approach to help students develop into confident and community-minded adults.
Long may Chatsworth flourish, and congratulations to all those who have contributed to her history.
Thirty years is a massive achievement, and we couldn’t be happier to be celebrating with Chatsworth. To the next amazing 30 years!
This post is in partnership with Chatsworth International School.
