Extended child care for tots, a new bilingual programme, an eSports programme, and a bespoke university guidance programme— there’s lots to look forward to at XCL World Academy (formerly known as GEMS World Academy Singapore) in 2021!
We’ve always been fans of XCL World Academy (formerly known as GEMS World Academy Singapore)’s innovative teaching methods, its modern campus and tight-knit community. And this year, we hear lots of big things are happening over at its campus! While we think the school is already awesome, it’s upped the ante with cool new academic and extracurricular offerings to be rolled out over the coming months. Here’s what you need to know:
Early and Primary Years
Extended care programme for the tots!
As of this year, the nursery school day will now be matched with the rest of the school, making life soooo much easier for parents. Can’t pick up the kids at 3:30pm? Don’t worry, GEMS is launching a new care programme for Nursery and Pre-K students (enrolled for a full-day programme) from 7am to 7pm at no additional cost for the first year!
A new English-Chinese Bilingual Programme for lil’ ones
Starting in August, Pre-K, KG1 and KG2 students can join the school’s unique English-Chinese bilingual programme. It’s the perfect head start for lil’ ones to acquire the skills to speak, read, write, listen and communicate in both English and Mandarin in a setting with equal emphasis on English and Mandarin, guided by bilingual teachers in small classes.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme enhancement
For students whose first language isn’t English, this school is enhancing its EAL programmes. Now, they’re more comprehensive and personalised, offering assistance to students who need it the most.
Secondary Years
University and career guidance from Grade 8 onwards
GEMS is the first school in Singapore to offer a bespoke university and career guidance to students from Grade 8 and above. Starting the process early means they have a longer runway to explore, research, and experiment so they can confidently make fully informed decisions about their future.
A brand new MYP eAssessment
The school is introducing the new MYP eAssessments as an equivalent alternative to IGCSE examinations for Grade 10 students. The eAssessments push students well beyond the rote memorisation of subject-specific content and lay a solid foundation for the rigorous IB Diploma. It’s a great way to monitor students’ educational progress and help them to prepare for key milestones.
Amazing new programmes
eSports Programme for kids who love gaming
Through this cool programme, students who love gaming can take it to the next level! They’ll also develop critical skills such as leadership, teamwork, discipline, and learn about the fastest growing segment of sports and the industry that supports it.
Premier educational partnership programme
The school is finalising partnerships with top global schools for college-level credit programmes. This will give students a headstart in tertiary education.
Sweet new digs
New sports facilities
The athletically-inclined will be pleased to know that new tennis courts, a running track, baseball and cricket batting nets will be making their way to GEMS over the next academic year.
The high school kids get their own block
The school is also planning for a dedicated and purpose-built High School Block with age-appropriate specialist classrooms. It will also include a university and career counselling centre, science labs, an eSports arena, computer coding labs and next-generation technology-equipped classrooms.
What else?
As of late last year, the school has joined XCL Education, a forward-thinking group of private and international schools, kindergartens, and academic enrichment programmes headquartered in Singapore. On 19th June , it will be launching a new name and brand, ready for the new academic year starting August. Stay tuned… More information will be released soon!
Pumped for all the new changes at GEMS? They’re so exciting, we almost wish we were kids again! Check them out IRL by booking a campus tour (either virtually or in person) ASAP.
This post is sponsored by XCL World Academy (formerly known as GEMS World Academy Singapore)