For mum Mette Ohlsen, XCL World Academy is a great school with an “incredible connection” among parents, students, and teachers. We spoke to her to find out more…
Though it’s only been a year since her daughter – Cathrine Asta Ohlsen – joined XCL World Academy (XWA), Mette Ohlsen only has positive things to say about the school. From having great facilities that benefit her child to being a smiling and welcoming community, it’s no wonder that Cathrine enjoys going to school every day! Read on to see what Mette has to say about the school…
Hello Mette! Can you tell us more about your daughter, Cathrine?
Cathrine joined XCL World Academy (XWA) in Grade 10. She’s a very optimistic and adventurous person and loves music. At XWA, she gets the opportunity to be creative with her music and develop public speaking and leadership skills while enjoying working with her friends and developing content for the XWA Podcast.
That sounds really cool! What was the ultimate deciding factor that led you to choose XWA?
This was Cathrine’s choice, really. We’ve been in Singapore for more than 15 years, and most of her friends were already at XWA, so it was her pure happiness and joy to join this school. We also heard that the school offers a great music programme and has a design centre for the students to utilise.
And did the school make Cathrine feel welcome?
Absolutely! Cathrine’s homeroom teacher warmly greeted her on the first day of school, and as she already knew some of the students, she was able to make more friends through them. She was welcomed into a friend group very quickly and has made what will be lifelong friendships throughout being at XWA.
Sounds like Cathrine loves attending XWA! What does she like most about it?
She loves meeting her friends and teachers and really enjoys the subjects that she takes. She appreciates being a part of this welcoming community and having access to outstanding facilities, such as the design centre, the music space and the new DP student lounge for students in Grades 11 and 12. Music, Design, Drama and Psychology classes are some of Cathrine’s favourite subjects.
Cathrine has also been able to be creative throughout her learning journey. She has been able to learn more about music, participate in various performances, as well as show her creativity through making jewellery and building a house during the design classes.
What sort of curriculum does the school offer?
XWA offers the IB curriculum and a wide range of different pathways for high school students, such as the IB Diploma Programme (IB DP); the Career-related Programme (CP), and the US High School Diploma accredited by WASC.
And has XWA lived up to your expectations?
Definitely, we have only met positive and caring staff members and students. When Cathrine had to choose her subjects for the IB, the teachers were very supportive and always provided good advice on how to pick the right subjects based on her interests and future career aspirations. Throughout lockdown, the school counsellors have also been very supportive, checking in on students and ensuring they were doing well. As the school changed from GEMS to XWA, we received a lovely care package from the new management and new canteen operators with some delicious treats. We have also really enjoyed the High School musical and Secondary Years theatre productions – Puffs.
What about parents – does the school have a community for them?
Yes, XWA has a Parent Engagement and Connection Community (PEACC), of which I’m a member. We are on a mission to foster positive relationships to develop and strengthen community spirit through effective partnerships between the school staff, students and parents. We run multiple events like the cultural day, coffee mornings for parents and holiday bazaars. There’s also a Dad’s social group as well as a Mom’s social group. I really enjoy meeting other parents from our community.
That’s wonderful. Overall, what do you value most about XWA?
The school’s big heart for students and how much they care for them. After the change from GEMS to XWA, we have only seen positive changes. When Cathrine reached out for help with her classes, the teachers were very quick to reply and consider all her needs. Some of my daughter’s teachers even called her to ask her how she was during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Esports facilities are fantastic, as the school recently launched the new E-sports programme and the construction of the Innovation Hub for Secondary Year students. The canteen food tastes delicious – we know this as we received a care package with lots of food and delicacies from the school for our entire family during Covid-19.
It’s an absolutely amazing school – we couldn’t have asked for a better school for our daughter. The school looks fantastic, and the people are amazing. The heart of the school is bigger than the building. XWA is a great school because of its incredible connection between the teachers, students and parents. They know each and every individual parent and student, making it a close-knit community for everyone.
Finally, any tips for parents who are looking for a school for their child?
If you are looking for a school, I would suggest visiting the school to see if this is the right choice for your child. During the visit, ask as many questions as you can to get to know the staff and educational team better.
Thank you so much for speaking to us, Mette!
This post is in partnership with XCL World Academy
