International school students at AIS are offered exciting co-curricular activities as part of their Australian curriculum. Head of School KARRIE DIETZ takes us through some of these offerings that round out what the school provides for an Australian education of the future.
Encouraging and developing personal passions through co-curricular activities
Australian International School celebrates the diverse passions of our students by offering a wide range of student co-curricular activities for exploring their interests. Whether it’s academics, arts or sports, AIS students have access to world-class facilities and supportive teachers as they pursue their individual interests.
Taking learning out of the classroom
Learning happens not only in the classroom but also outside of it. The school integrates outdoor learning into the Australian education it offers and provides different experiences across different levels.
Elementary students attend the Wildlings Camp, which brings them to Dempsey Hill and West Coast Park. There, they explore edible plants, build shelters, tackle obstacle courses, plant seedlings, have water play adventures and much more, all in nature. This hands-on experience allows them to connect with nature while developing their resilience, teamwork and a love for the outdoors.
Older students from 14 years can participate in the Expedition aspect of the Duke of Edinburgh. They can choose the activities to build their own programme. For example, AIS students have experienced the thrill of kayak and camp expeditions to Pulau Ubin. In these real-world settings, they’re given the chance to build their leadership and problem-solving skills.
Embracing personal passions for career development
AIS recognises that students have diverse passions and dreams. The school supports AIS students in following their dreams by providing a wide range of resources and opportunities.
Besides world-class facilities and supportive teachers, there are overseas tournaments and international performances that students can participate in. One notable partnership is career learning experiences at Apple. The participating students gain insights into the tech industry while also developing skills relevant to the industry.
Co-curricular activities outside of the Australian curriculum
AIS students are encouraged to explore their artistic and cultural passions beyond the Australian curriculum. To support this, the school has provided many opportunities for students to perform to not just the school community but also to a larger audience.
One such instance was a live band performance at Gardens by the Bay. Another public performance was by the school’s Kapa Haka Group for the New Zealand High Commissioner, HE Gabby Rush. These events highlight the importance of cultural heritage outside of the Australian curriculum, while taking pride in the schools’ heritage.
Another way that AIS nurtures a global mindset in our students is through co-curricular activities such as the Model United Nations For Change. During the event, students assume the roles of delegates to debate pressing global issues. Through this experience, students develop skills in understanding and tackling global challenges, critical thinking and diplomacy.
Social responsibility in students is nurtured through School 4 Schools. This initiative sees students raise money to support education for students in Nepal. In the process, they develop into compassionate and globally minded individuals.
Blending sports and leadership together
The school provides our students with unique opportunities in our co-curricular activities that blend sports excellence with leadership skills. These include welcoming the Tasmanian Jack Jumpers basketball team as well as hosting the New Zealand Women’s Rugby Sevens. AIS students also interviewed Mark Dutton, Team Manager of Red Bull Ampol Racing Team, who offered real-world insights on leadership and collaboration.
In addition, students who enjoy competition have opportunities to compete at the national and regional levels. The AIS Softball Team recently competed in the SEASAC Tournament in Bangkok. They played against international teams, which helped them to further build confidence and teamwork.
About Karrie
Karrie has been in education for almost 30 years, teaching and leading schools around the world including Hong Kong, Thailand and Bangladesh. She lived in Singapore previously and has been back since the beginning of 2023.
Karrie can be seen meeting students and families in the morning as they come to school when she’s doing traffic duty. She says, “It’s terrific! I get to chat with parents as we wait for the lights to change; as one family walks off to school, I get another to talk to. It’s nice to see the students’ smiles and eagerness to get to school in the morning.”
Australian International School
1 Lorong Chuan
6517 0247 | ais.com.sg
Enjoyed this story about Australian education in Singapore and co-curricular activities for Australian international students? Read more about AIS’s Kapa Haka co-curricular activities and find out more about the vocational training AIS provides for its secondary students. Plus, see our ideas on things to do in Singapore for teenagers!
