CIS Singapore is 35 – take a look around!

The Canadian International School (CIS) (Singapore) celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. Head of School, DR ALLAN WESTON updates us on what’s changed and what’s stayed special since 2022 at one of the highest performing IB schools in Singapore and Asia. Also, scroll down for details of upcoming Open House days, were families can learn more about what’s in store for the future, including school activities and the International Baccalaureate programme.

Tell us a bit about the anniversary and what it means for CIS (Singapore).

The 35-year milestone is a reflection of our commitment to educational excellence, innovation and community. What has kept the school strong over that time is our ability to evolve while staying true to our core: nurturing confident, curious and globally minded students who are prepared to succeed in an ever-changing world.

Over the years, CIS has embraced change and led with many firsts. For example, we pioneered a balanced 50:50 bilingual programme; introduced Singapore’s first Forest School experience through our Outdoor Discovery Centre; and became the first school to fully integrate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) into everyday learning.

We continue to innovate and invest in enriching student programmes such as AI, robotics and coding. At the same time, we’re expanding our Academy of Music, and extending extensive sports programmes to ensure our students grow both inside and outside the classroom.

What sets our school apart is our focus on developing the whole child. Academic rigour, student wellbeing, bilingual excellence and a future-focused mindset are all part of the equation, and we have brought in passionate IB educators from around the world who inspire students daily.

What does the CIS experience really offer, inside and outside of the classroom?

We’re proud to be among the highest academically performing schools in both Singapore and Asia. However, we recognise that expat families are looking for more than just good grades. That’s why we focus just as much on developing the whole child as we do on academics.

As one of the largest IB schools in Singapore, we offer the full International Baccalaureate programme from early years through to graduation. Thus, we’re preparing students academically and helping them grow into compassionate, adaptable global citizens.

Our hands-on, inquiry-based learning encourages kids to follow their passions, think creatively, and connect what they learn to the world around them.

Beyond lessons, there are over 120 extra-curricular activities where students build their confidence and discover new interests.

We place great importance on wellbeing, making sure every child feels safe, supported, and valued through personalised care.

At the end of the day, our mission is to help each child grow into a well-rounded individual. We help them to be equipped with the skills, mindset and resilience needed to confidently navigate the challenges of tomorrow.

What’s a moment that made you feel proud to be part of CIS (Singapore)?

I often reflect on how far CIS (Singapore) has come. We started as a small school in Toh Tuck serving a handful of international families. We’re now a vibrant, globally connected community known for academic excellence and a commitment to student wellbeing.

One yearly school tradition that always fills me with pride is our Uniting Nations celebration. Watching students from over 70 nationalities proudly showcase their country flags and celebrate cross cultural performances together is incredibly moving.

What are you most excited about for the IB school’s future?

One of the most exciting developments at CIS (Singapore) is our new Bilingual Hub: a dedicated centre for research, innovation and professional growth. It’s a big step forward in how we continue to strengthen our best-in-bilingual approach, at the same time, supporting our teachers to deliver innovative language programmes through global collaborations, and partnerships with leading universities.

This year, over 25 percent of our graduating Class of 2025 earned the Bilingual Diploma from the International Baccalaureate programme. We achieved a 100 percent pass rate in the DELF French proficiency tests, and our students have outperformed peers in the Youth Chinese Test. With the Bilingual Hub, we will build on these successes and continue raising the bar.

A key part of the Bilingual Hub’s work will be expanding language learning beyond the classroom to the wider community. Starting this semester, our expert teachers will lead Chinese and French language sessions for parents. This gives parents a chance to engage with their child’s bilingual learning and help build a stronger homeschool partnership. We’re also looking to introduce Korean, Japanese and several other mother tongue classes after school. This is for students who want to continue to use their first language.

If you had one message to share to the world, what would it be?

Make the most of every opportunity to grow, make a difference, and leave each place better than you found it. The impact we create, no matter how small, can spark a brighter future for generations to come.

Meet Dr Allan Weston and the CIS team

See how this IB school in Singapore is preparing the next generation of globally minded learners at an upcoming CIS (Singapore) Open House. You can meet the leadership and teaching teams and explore the bilingual International Baccalaureate programmes. Register at cis.edu.sg/openhouse-sep25-el.

Canadian International School (Singapore) is at 7 Jurong West Street 41.
6467 1732 | cis.edu.sg

This article on one of the highest performing IB schools in Singapore first appeared in the September 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy! Also, read more about the Chinese-English Bilingual Programme at the Canadian International School and how CIS primary school’s Outdoor Play and Learning programme fosters student learning and wellbeing.

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