Parent support for expat families at XCL World Academy

GLENN and KAT VAN ZUTPHEN are Americans whose two children have attended XCL World Academy (XWA) for several years. Kate (18) joined the school in Grade 11 for the final two years of High School; she’s just completed her IB Diploma. Max (17) started seven years ago in Grade 6 and is now in Grade 11. They share how parent support from the school made them feel at home. Plus, the XWA team outlines how they help new expat families integrate easily into the school community and living in Singapore.

What made you decide to enrol your children in XWA?

We wanted our children to experience a global education with future-ready skills, while living in Singapore.

We realised that XWA offered the diversity, creative vision and personalised support that aligned with our goal of raising global citizens. The school’s forward-thinking curriculum, passionate teachers, modern facilities and standout programmes in music, design and sports made it the perfect fit for our family.

We also valued avoiding a “cliche” American expat experience, and XWA offered something genuinely international.

Briefly describe your experience at the school, from your children’s first year until now.

Both Kate and Max started in the MOE system before joining XWA.

Kate quickly benefited from XWA’s personalised support and rigorous IB guidance. She has since achieved a great IB result and secured admission into the university of her choice. Key factors in her success were dedicated teachers, mentorship from the university guidance team and inspiration from high-achieving peers.

Max initially faced challenges with learning style differences. Over the years, he has developed greater maturity, independence and ownership of his learning. He has flourished academically, socially and personally through the school’s balanced focus on sports, bands, and leadership programmes.

Today, both our children are confident, disciplined and inspired to embrace global opportunities, reflecting the school’s holistic approach to education.

In what ways does your family feel “at home” at the school?

From the very first day, new-student onboarding helped our kids feel comfortable, with small classes and dedicated “buddies” guiding them through the transition.

Beyond academics, the school offers rich experiences, from student bands to Broadway-quality performances led by passionate teachers. Max, in particular, loves this aspect, especially working with the school band.

Moments like the senior promenade, where younger students line the path with signs and cheers to celebrate graduates, connect the whole community.

At the heart of it all is Tammy Murphy, the Head of School. Her vision, dedication and empathetic leadership have shaped a culture and environment that make XWA feel like home.

From teachers who know students inside and outside the classroom, to a community that celebrates creativity, innovation and personal growth, XWA provides a place where our children feel valued, inspired and ready to embrace the world, and parents feel supported.

Hear from XWA on how they help new expat families to the school

What parent support can new families starting at XWA expect?

We understand that joining a new school is as much a family transition as it is a student one. That’s why XWA places a strong emphasis on thoughtful, personalised onboarding from the very first interaction.

New families are supported through a structured admissions and transition process, with clear communication, individual guidance and opportunities to connect before the academic journey begins.

Once students join, they benefit from small class sizes and a dedicated buddy system that helps them settle quickly; academically, socially and emotionally. This early support ensures students feel seen, included and confident from day one.

The teachers and staff take the time to truly know each child across campus life, from the classroom to the sports field and the stage. This close-knit environment allows students to integrate smoothly and encourages them to fully engage in learning and community life.

Parent support is available throughout the transition, with open access to teachers, school leaders and pastoral teams. This ensures clarity, reassurance and partnership at every stage.

For families joining at key transition points – such as moving from the local system, entering the IB Diploma Programme or aligning with different academic calendars – there’s additional academic and counselling guidance. This extra parent support helps ensure continuity and confidence.

Our goal is simple: every new family to the school should feel welcomed, supported and at home from the start.

What are some ways that expat families can be involved at the school?

Family involvement is a valued part of school life. Parents are encouraged to engage in ways that feel meaningful and natural to them, whether through school events, performances, sports fixtures or community celebrations.

Families often take part in school concerts, band performances, drama productions, exhibitions, and milestone moments such as senior celebrations and community traditions that bring students of all ages together. These shared experiences strengthen connections between families, students, teachers and leadership, creating a genuine sense of belonging.

XWA also prioritises partnership with parents through regular communication, workshops, information sessions and personalised meetings. The latter particularly around academic pathways, university guidance and future planning. Parents are treated as collaborators in their child’s journey, and their perspectives are welcomed and respected.

Above all, parent involvement at XWA is grounded in relationships. Families feel connected because teachers know their children well. School leaders are visible and approachable. The community celebrates growth, creativity and innovation together.

This shared commitment to student development, academic, personal and future-ready, is what truly brings the XWA community to life.

Download the exclusive XWA Digital Guide

If you’re an expat family exploring educational options while living in Singapore, get to know XWA through the school’s Digital Guide here. It gives insider access to expert advice on choosing the right academic pathways, preparing for university admissions, insights into bilingual education, and perspectives from XWA parents and students.

Alternatively, discover XWA firsthand – arrange a personalised campus tour or speak with the Admissions team at 6230 4230, or email admissions@xwa.edu.sg.

XCL World Academy is at 2 Yishun Street 42.
6230 4230 | xwa.edu.sg

Found this article about parent support for expat families at XWA interesting? Read about how XWA integrates future skills into its Primary Years Programme for KG2 to Grade 5 here. You can also take a look at the school’s new dedicated facility for nursery to primary school (18 months to 11 years) here. Plus, ideas on what to do in Singapore with your family!

Planning to live in Singapore or new to our sunny island? Make sure to read the digital edition of our latest City Guide.