Moderate fees and great facilities are attracting new families to the Nanyang campus of One World International School (OWIS), but what about the learning opportunities? Here, we find out about the ethos, curriculum and education programmes at Singapore’s newest international school.
A growth mind-set
You’ll hear the phrase “growth mind-set” mentioned often at OWIS, as it underpins the school’s commitment to cultivating motivated learners. The inquiry-based academic programme is based on the internationally recognised International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge’s IGCSE programme. This robust curriculum, together with experienced educators, aims to instil a love of learning in students that they carry through life. In addition, students are actively encouraged to ask questions and solve problems in order to develop critical thinking skills – an essential element of the 21st century workplace.
The One World International School model
Beyond academics, the OWIS vision is to shape children into responsible and well-rounded adults. The model centres on six key pillars that are woven into the fabric of the school: collaboration, values, service, learning, relationships and one with the world. An international focus and multicultural student population ensure students make an impact across their communities, as well as the world.
Where learning happens
Outdoor spaces: Children are encouraged to spend time outdoors. And there is plenty of space – 3.2 hectares to be exact! A huge outdoor play space features a centrepiece tree, providing shade from the hot sun. There are also two full-size basketball courts and another half-size one, plus a full-size grass sports field encircled by a running track. Lush gardens are cleverly integrated throughout the campus and many are dedicated learning spaces where children can discover, and learn, from their interactions with nature.
Indoor environments: Aside from the spacious classrooms, there are dedicated spaces for performing arts, entrepreneurship, visual arts, technology and robotics. There’s even a dance studio! The enormous multi-purpose hall provides a meeting area for assemblies and performances, and a sports hall in rainy weather. The main library is dedicated to learning and literary discovery, with the latest technology playing a big part.
Technology at every turn
Technology is integrated into every classroom and available where it’s appropriate for knowledge and learning. OWIS is an Apple and Google school and 65-inch interactive LED touch-screens really ramp up the learning experience. Apple iPads are available for on-campus use.
Catering to the needs of early learners
Open to local and international students, the inquiry and play based programme for the early years emphasises nature as an important learning environment. The outdoor sensory garden is planted with lush green foliage and trails, perfect for little learners to explore. Brightly painted classrooms surround a central indoor common area, supervised at all times, with a library, sand play area and imaginative play areas like pretend kitchens and dress-ups.
Need to know
Kindergarten and primary school fees are $16,999 (+GST) per child, while high school fees are $19,545 (+GST). Fee increases, if any, will be capped at inflation (released annually by the government) plus one percent. Although the fees are lower than other international schools, rest assured it covers everything from 8.30am to 3pm, plus two uniform sets. The only additional costs are after-school activities such as CCAs, the school bus service and lunch from the canteen, if required.
Classes commence on 8 January
Enrolment is open now. OWIS will offer places from Pre-Kindergarten (age 3) to Grade 8. Grades 9 to 10 will open in August 2018, and each year new additional grades will be added. Class sizes are limited to a maximum of 24 students, and 18 students for the early years program with two adults in each class.
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Brought to you by One World International School
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