In 2024, SJI International Elementary School said “hello”/“ni hao” to a new two-way Bilingual Programme featuring Chinese and English. Now in its second year, it’s expanding and enriching its offerings for Prep 1 to Grade 3 students. This allows them to experience a holistic immersion in Chinese and English.
Dual-language learning environment at SJI International
The school’s innovative alternating language model creates a dynamic dual-language learning environment. This fosters proficiency in both English and Chinese for students in the Bilingual Programme.
In 2024, the students celebrated cultural festivals like Chinese New Year and showcased their talents at SINGALA IV: A Night In Old Shanghai, the school’s fundraising dinner supporting their Scholarship Programme. These experiences, along with classroom activities, field trips and events like the Bilingual Tea Morning for parents, have made language learning a dynamic and engaging experience. This encourages students to connect with both languages and the cultural heritage they represent.
The programme’s first year set a strong foundation. As it expands to include additional year groups, opportunities for growth and development continue to flourish. SJI Internationals says this will further solidify the school’s commitment to bilingual education in Singapore.
Holistic immersion in Chinese
Adding another dimension to the students’ cultural immersion in Chinese, SJI International has introduced Chinese instrumental music into its curriculum.
This year, students will have the opportunity to explore the rich world of Chinese music through instruments like the guzheng, erhu and yangqin. They will be integrated into both Instrumental Tuition and CCA Programmes.
This development gives students hands-on experience with traditional Chinese music, fostering creativity and cultural awareness. Furthermore, the launch of an Elementary School Chinese Orchestra brings the joy of traditional music to life. It provides students with a platform to perform and share their musical talents.
More than just language acquisition, SJI International says that the Bilingual Programme equips students with the creative and analytical skills needed to succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape.
Who is the Bilingual Programme for?
It’s designed for students of any nationality who are keen to learn both English and Chinese to develop an equal proficiency in both languages.
Teachers differentiate the learning to ensure every student is supported wherever necessary to progress in both languages. Parents will also be guided on how to support their child’s bilingual education in Singapore at home, regardless of the child’s mother tongue.
How can a student apply to the programme at SJI International?
As part of the admissions process, a child has to meet the general admissions criteria already in place for Mainstream applicants before they’re assessed on their level of language proficiency. This is to ensure that they can access the curriculum in either English or Chinese at their appropriate age level.
SJI International is at 490 Thomson Road.
6353 9383 | sji-international.com.sg
Look back on the fundraising event SJI International held for its Scholarship Programmes. Take a peek at its preschool on Holland Road. To make the most of living in Singapore, read our latest City Guide here for free!
