Video: Why this school in Singapore will appeal to GCC expats

Cross border education has become a common occurrence, and with many expats in the GCC constantly on the move, it is especially relevant to residents in the region.

When moving countries, families with children tend to pay particular attention to education standards when making a decision.

“Being based overseas gives children a head start in embracing an international lifestyle, and as far as their education is concerned, the opportunities are vast,” HSBC says in its expat report.

“For older children, relocating abroad could make it easier to attend leading international universities,” it adds.

However, for children who have grown up in a place like the UAE, which is home to over 200 nationalities, moving abroad can be daunting. While a possible change in the curriculum poses a problem for some, parents also face a challenge when they look for a similar multicultural environment for their children.

This school in Singapore seeks to address both those issues – Stamford American is the first and only school in the country to offer multiple graduating options. Those include a US accredited Stamford high school diploma alongside the opportunity to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma or Advanced Placement (AP) international diploma.

The school – which offers education for children aged from 18 months to 18 years – is also a melting pot of cultures with students from over 70 nationalities. It celebrates cultural events and festivals such as an International Fiesta, Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Christmas.

“Stamford will be a great fit for expats from the GCC,” says Dr. Eric Sands, superintendent of Stamford American International School.

“We offer multiple pathways tailored to university destinations and subject choice to ensure we truly equip our students for university and beyond.”

Stamford has two campuses including the Early Learning Village, located at Chuan Lane, which caters for students from pre-nursery to KG2, while the Woodleigh main campus is for students from Grade 1 to 12.

Outside academics, extra-curricular activities at the school include athletics, field studies and performing arts.

Stamford also offers a boarding programme, where children aged 12 and above can stay with other international students.

According to Dr. Sands, the school has seen a steady increase in the number of students joining from the GCC region in recent years.

“We have a diverse, warm and welcoming community which we have seen helps a great deal in transition for our new families,” he says.

“In order to further support student transition to Singapore, we offer an optional after-school mother tongue programme led by parents and the larger international community. Children in the programme have access to native teachers, classroom facilities, IT support, library and event spaces.

“We also have a buddy system in place to ensure that all new students are not left alone. At Stamford, we aim to equip our students with not only academic skills but life skills that will serve them long after they have left the school,” he adds.

To learn more about the school, click here