The transition into secondary school is both an exciting and nervous time for our kids. Here’s a peek at what’s in store for them in secondary at One World International School…
The progression to secondary school (aka the ‘big kids school’) is more than just a change in physical environment. It’s a major milestone that brings along a set of unique challenges and opportunities. Plus, transitioning into the big kids’ school means your kid is almost a teen – where did the time go?! This is when kids start seeking more independence and crave additional responsibilities to prove they’re ready for adulthood.
With all these impending physical, social, and emotional changes happening, it’s all the more important to ensure that they have an engaging student life at school. One World International School (OWIS) understands this, taking steps to provide its secondary school students with an awesome time at school. Here’s how they do it…
Students can delve into new subjects
Students get to learn new subjects when they enter secondary school at OWIS, which includes science, computer studies, and humanities. These are in addition to existing subjects like maths, English, Mandarin, music, art, and physical education (PE). What differs is that now students have the option to pursue subjects of their choice on top of the compulsory ones within the Cambridge IGCSE and IB Diploma Programme pathway. They can also base their projects and research work on topics that they’re interested in. These support the school’s emphasis on student agency (aka students owning their learning journey).
If that wasn’t enough, OWIS will be expanding its subject offerings in the upcoming academic year. Starting August 2022, secondary school students can pick up drama as a course in Grade 6; and French, Spanish, or Mandarin in Grade 7!
The school encourages student-led clubs and societies
OWIS’ Head of School, Mark Renie, has a vision of the secondary school developing its own identity that’s distinct from the primary school. As such, the school organises social sessions where learners can showcase their talents, and helps to set up student-led clubs and organisations based on shared interests. Once in secondary school, OWIS students will be able to choose to join clubs and societies, including chess, writing, debate, and more. They can also initiate collaborative service projects based on a shared goal. The school recognises that students become increasingly reliant on peer groups during their adolescent and teen years. Hence, having interest-related clubs and societies that are led by students can really help make secondary school life engaging for kids.
Wait, there’s more – students can look forward to excursions and school events too!
We can all agree that some of the best memories of school are made during school trips and events. And with the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, OWIS is able to resume excursions and school-based events – yay! In fact, OWIS’ secondary school students have already gone on educational trips to the museums and MacRitchie Reservoir. The school’s choir and orchestra have also wowed audiences with their performances in recent school events, and some students have even showcased their creativity in recent murals.
The best part? Future students can expect all this and more when they transition into secondary school at OWIS!
OWIS prepares its existing Grade 5 students for the transition as well
To ensure a smooth transition to secondary school, OWIS offers taster workshops to its Grade 5 students towards the end of the school year. Students get a glimpse of what they’ll be learning in subjects like drama and science, as well as how lessons are taught. There’s even a chance to have a go at ‘grown-up’ scientific experiments like their older peers! Not only do these workshops prep students for life in secondary school, but they help spark students’ interest and get them excited for this next stage in their lives.
Secondary school classes are available at two of OWIS’ campuses
After Grade 5, OWIS Nanyang students can attend secondary school at the same campus all the way to Grade 12. OWIS’ Suntec campus will also start offering Grade 6 classes to its students in the beginning of this academic year in August 2022.
Keen to learn more about secondary school life at OWIS? Join a school tour to experience the school’s warm and inclusive environment, or contact its Admissions Team to find out how your child can flourish academically, physically, and emotionally at OWIS.
This post is in partnership with One World International School.
