From its first class facilities, an excellent standard of teaching, plus a great welcome – here’s what the Woodfines had to say about Overseas Family School…
Since their arrival in Singapore in 2019, the Woodfine family have felt really welcome at Overseas Family School (OFS). Not only did the school leave a superb first impression on them during the school tour, its high quality teaching and supportive learning environment convinced David and Anneta that OFS is the best choice for their sons. We chatted with them to find out more…
Hello David and Anneta! Can you tell us more about your sons who are attending OFS?
Our oldest, James, is 14 years old and attending Grade 9. Oliver, our youngest, is 11 and in Grade 6.
Let’s start from the beginning – what were the most important factors for you in selecting a school for James and Oliver?
In order of priority, we wanted a school with a strong academic record, a happy and safe environment, and lastly, one with excellent facilities for sport, science, and music activities.
What was the ultimate deciding factor that led you to choose OFS, and did the school live up to your expectations?
Our first visit to the school really impressed us as it has first class facilities and is located in a quieter part of Singapore next to a park and the coast.
When we arrived in Singapore in the summer of 2019, both of our boys were assigned a class buddy on their first day at school to help them settle more quickly. They also received a great welcome from their teachers and other children. All these initiatives really helped them to settle very quickly into our new life in Singapore. Plus, they’ve made a lot of friends!
We really noticed the excellent standard of teaching in the core subjects – especially Maths and Science – which compares very favourably to that which we’ve experienced in their UK school. We’re very happy with James and Oliver’s academic progress at OFS.
What sort of curriculum does the school offer?
Our boys follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum as they’re in Grades 6-12. OFS offers the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) for children in Pre-K1 to K2, followed by the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for Grades 1-5. The school also incorporates the Model United Nations (MUN) programme into its Elementary, Middle, and High School curriculum.
What do James and Oliver love most about their school?
The boys have enjoyed participating in the school’s MUN programme. It teaches them to research and debate global issues from different perspectives. They also really enjoy the after-school clubs, sports, enrichment, and holiday camp programmes. Through these programmes, they’ve been able to pursue varied interests like chess, photography, robotics, drama, karate, swimming, and the keyboard. The boys got to participate in competitive sports through the OFS Tigers football team, too!
Both James and Oliver have fully benefited from the school’s fantastic sports facilities: its basketball courts, football pitches, and an Olympic-standard swimming pool. They enjoy the food options – both hot and cold – during lunchtime as well.
Does OFS have a community for parents?
Yes, the school has an active Parent Association. It organises different events like the Global Picnic, regular coffee mornings, and different workshops – including an induction for new parents.
And are you satisfied with the level of communication you receive from the school?
Yes! From teachers all the way to the Head of School – it is always timely and well organised, especially during the Covid lockdown times.
What do you value most about OFS?
We appreciate how well organised the school is and that it employs high quality teaching staff. OFS is a great school because it provides a really supportive and friendly learning environment for our children. It makes us feel confident that we’re providing them with the best start in life.
That sounds great! Finally, any advice for other parents who are trying to choose a school for their child?
Make sure to organise a visit to the school during term time if it’s possible! It helps you get a feel of the school, whether it has a warm and friendly atmosphere from its teachers and pupils.
Thank you, David and Anneta!
This post is in partnership with Overseas Family School.
