XCL World Academy (formerly known as GEMS World Academy Singapore) mum Lotus Mackie gives us the lowdown on why she chose this international school for her children and why they all love it…
With all the choices for international schools out there, narrowing down which one we should send our children to can be tough. We have to think about the curriculum, the teachers, the location, facilities, available extracurricular activities, price… it can all get a bit overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to get the lowdown from the people who know a school the best – the parents of the students – before we make our final decision. We recently spoke to mum-of-four, Lotus Mackie, about why she picked XCL World Academy (formerly known as GEMS World Academy Singapore) for her family.
Tell us about the children you have attending the school
We have four children enrolled: one in high school, one in middle school, one in primary and our youngest is starting at the XCL World Academy (formerly known as GEMS World Academy Singapore) Nursery in January.
What were the most important factors for you in selecting a school?
We wanted an academically strong school that was able to cater to the varied needs of our children, had passionate educators and at the same time focused on developing a well-rounded student.
How has the school lived up to your expectations?
We were impressed by the staff and facilities from the first visit to the school. Our children settled in surprisingly fast and enjoy the school very much.
What do your children like most about attending this school?
XCL World Academy (formerly known as GEMS World Academy Singapore) is a truly international school with diverse student and teacher population, excellent facilities and a wide range of extra curricular activities available after school. The staff and students are warm, friendly and kind.
What sort of curriculum does this school offer?
The school offers IB from Early Years up to Grade 12 and IGCSE curriculum in Grade 9 & 10.
What advice would you give other parents trying to choose a school?
Ask lots of questions so you can find the school that fits your children and family. With so many good schools in Singapore to choose from, it’s important that you feel confident in trusting the quality of education on offer. For our family, we wanted a truly international school that was able to deliver programs and opportunities unavailable in the country we were living in previously.
What do you value most about the school?
It is an engaging, warm and fun learning environment that offers different opportunities and develops real-life skills in the classroom and beyond.
What has your experience of the school bus service been like?
We have used a complimentary shuttle bus service (to/from nearest MRT station) and we are happy that the school offers a door-to-door bus service. The bus service also operates to complement ECA activities, which makes it easier for our children to attend various activities and sports after school.
Are you satisfied with the level of communication you receive from the school and how they engage parents?
The school is very proactive in how it communicates with parents. We receive school newsletters, emails and updates on social media. The school also organises educational workshops to assist parents in understanding and supporting their children further as well as social events where you can have fun and meet new friends.
How much homework is expected of your children?
In the Primary Years there is no homework but there is a huge variety of activities for children to engage in. In the Secondary Years the homework load is manageable and my children seem to cope with it very well.
To find out more about XCL World Academy (formerly known as GEMS World Academy Singapore) contact the admissions team to book a tour.
This post is sponsored by XCL World Academy (formerly known as GEMS World Academy Singapore).
