The school has left a positive impression on the Mouhamadmoussa family since their initial visit. Here’s what they have to say about it…
Having moved to Singapore from France, it was crucial for the Mouhamadmoussa family to provide their daughters with a high quality education that aligned with the French system. The couple wanted a learning experience similar to what the girls would’ve received if they were studying in France. As such, the family enrolled their three daughters at International French School (Singapore) (IFS), which they’ve grown to love! Here’s what they have to say about the school that has the “perfect environment” for their girls.
Hello Mr. and Mrs. Mouhamadmoussa! Can you tell us a little about your family?
We moved to Singapore 12 years ago, and our three daughters have attended IFS ever since. Safiya, who’s 17, is in Terminale (Grade 12) this year; Mina, 14 years old, is in 3eme (Grade 9); and 10-year-old Amel is in CM2 (Grade 5).
What were the most important factors for you when choosing a school?
We’ve been away from France for the past 15 years, so it was crucial for us to choose a school that provided high quality education aligned with the French system. We wanted our daughters to join a school with programmes and a curriculum that’s similar to that in France. It wasn’t a difficult decision to enrol them at IFS, as we had a very positive impression during our initial visit, having visited the campus, met the teachers, and found out how our girls would be welcomed. Knowing that they will have the opportunity to enjoy courses in other languages – like English, Chinese, Spanish, German, etc. – is also a great addition, as we believe this can provide them with more options. All in all, it’s reassuring to know that our children will be spending their school years in a premiere school like IFS.
What curriculum does IFS offer?
IFS offers the French national curriculum and is certified and accredited by the French Ministry of Education to do so. The French education system is one of the most highly regarded in the world, known for its emphasis on academic excellence and commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education. It’s designed to cultivate individuals who are able to think both critically and creatively.
What do you and your daughters like most about the school?
We like that the school is designed to give maximum comfort to students from kindergarten through to high school level. The campus is spacious, green, and equipped with the latest technology – everything that enables students to learn and work in a pleasant environment. IFS is also conveniently located in the Serangoon Garden area, which is easily accessible via both bus and MRT. There’s a school bus service for families who don’t live nearby as well.
The girls love the great atmosphere and teaching at IFS. They also enjoy socialising and making new friends with the students there. It’s amazing, as the bonds they created last well beyond their time in school, as many of their friends remain in touch even after leaving Singapore. We also like the multicultural environment that’s like a melting pot of nationalities of students of different backgrounds. We feel that this is a great way to prepare children for their own future.
And what about homework?
Homework is definitely part of the deal as we expect the school to equip our kids with the necessary, relevant knowledge to face the future. Having said that, we’re of the view that there needs to be a balanced approach between the amount of work done in school and homework. We’re happy that IFS has taken feedback from parents into account about this, and our girls’ results did not deteriorate.
Has IFS lived up to your expectations?
Definitely. We noticed that the school has continuously enhanced its offering over the years. There are three that we would like to highlight:
- IFS has extended its campus with a brand new building just for primary students, with state of the art facilities (new swimming pool, library, connected devices, etc.), more space for activities during breakout time, and it just makes the school a perfect environment for students.
- The school prioritises diversity and inclusion as a school value. The school accepts students who come from different parts of the world, and mastering French is not a requirement to join the school. The school also has a number of programmes to facilitate integration and help students feel at home.
- There’s great connection throughout the entire IFS community. Information sharing is fluid and effective, with dedicated channels in each class for teachers to communicate with parents or parents to communicate with each other.
What do you value most about the school?
We like that IFS offers the French pluridisciplinary curriculum that’s combined with an international context in Singapore. The French system focuses on developing core knowledge in French, Math, History, etc., and all these are looked through an international lens here with many language options as well as cultural events from all over the world. Through this, students learn to respect each other, build their own personalities, and understand that differences bring value.
Finally, do you have any advice for parents who are still trying to choose a school?
As parents, perhaps it would help to consider these three questions:
- Does the school provide a high standard of education while paying attention to the child’s specific needs?
- Does the school offer a wide range of curriculum choices to allow children to pick suitable ones for themselves?
- Does the school have an open mindset to adapt to an ever-changing environment and is it open to listening to parents’ feedback?
Thank you for sharing with us!
This post is in partnership with International French School (Singapore).
