A school where every child can play for a sports team, play a musical instrument of their choice and everyone is part of a big family? Dulwich College (Singapore) is one lovely place to learn.
We all know that there’s so much more to school than what goes on in the classroom. It’s the little things, and, ultimately, the feel of a school that helps us know when we’ve found the perfect fit. We’ve already told you some of the reasons we’re fond of the infant school at Dulwich College (Singapore) – known as DUCKS. And you’ve probably heard on the grapevine that this international school has a reputation as a pretty lovely place to be. It’s a home from home for students age two all the way to age 18, so it’s clearly a place to stick around! But let us tell you a little bit more – and share a few things you might be surprised to learn about life at school here…
It has British roots, but is big on diversity
The original Dulwich College is one of the best schools in the UK with 400 years of innovation behind it; here at the Singapore campus, students follow an enhanced version of the English National Curriculum with even more choices in music, sport and an emphasis on Mandarin. Since Dulwich College (Singapore) arrived with a bang two years ago, it’s grown a strong community with families from over 50 nationalities! This rich diversity is something to shout about, and educating kids to be compassionate, culturally aware and comfortable in an international setting is a huge part of the school’s philosophy.
And it’s all about balance
Dulwich College (Singapore) is an academically selective school with a modern approach: students receive the highest standards of learning, and music, the arts and sport are just as important to school life as academia. Here, it’s essential that every child is given the chance to be the best they can be. And while the school is steadily growing, the lovely thing is that classes are small so kids can enjoy personal tuition and the support they need.
Every kid gets a chance to play
Healthy competition is a good thing, but this is a place where everyone can join in. From Junior School, all students are provided with a musical instrument, which they can play in class groups, or as part of the school orchestra. And here’s something we’re cheering about: because every child should be encouraged to find a sport they love, school teams are created to include everyone who wants to play. Besides, there’s a LOT for everyone to enjoy at the campus, which we’ll get back to in a moment…
And learn Mandarin!
The brilliant dual language program is all about teaching kids an appreciation for a different culture as well as developing a new language skill that will open doors. It all starts at DUCKS, where little ones are taught by two teachers, in English and Mandarin. From Junior School, kids enjoy a 55-minute Mandarin language lesson every day.
Life is sweet
There’s a lot of fun happening here. The kids (especially the little ones in DUCKS) go mad for the pretty cool bike track on campus. They also love the rugby pitch, the dance studio and fitness suite, the indoor basketball courts, swimming pools (for weekly lessons) and the double tennis courts. Can we play too? Plus, there are concerts and plays where everyone can get involved – there are three theatres at the school where your kid can have their stage debut!
And here’s a perk for the parents: no more lunchbox dilemmas. On campus there’s a sushi bar, Chinese food, a tandoor oven and a pizza oven, a deli and sandwich bar, fresh juices and a pasta bar! Yes, we have food envy.
And it’s one big family…
Every member of the teaching team, including Headmaster Nick Magnus and the heads of school are involved in teaching. They also get stuck into lunchtime duty, meet students at the school bus, and really get to know their students.
You might have some competition here as your child’s biggest cheerleader: there’s a lot of respect for the kids, and a lot of love in seeing them thrive and grow. You’ll feel this straight away when you join the school community.
Want to learn more? Visit singapore.dulwich.org
This post is sponsored by Dulwich College (Singapore).
CPE registration no. 201027137D. Period of registration 9 Jan 2016 to 8 Jan 2020.