The most trusted boarding schools in 2021
- 1. a2 – b2 = (a – b)(a + b) abc e=mc 2 a+b Celcius x+y 2+3=5 2+2=4 x2 Cos Tan 90 www.theknowledgereview.com THE MOST BOARDING BOARDING SCHOOLS IN 2021 TRUSTED ISSUE- 03 AUGUST
- 4. EDITOR’S NOTE As the name suggests, boarding schools are educational institutions where students stay and study. These schools offer residential facilities and allow students to live far away from their homes. Hence, in this perspective, opting for a boarding school is not an easy decision to take. Parents have to consider many factors before they admit their children to any boarding school. They must ensure that the school offers excellent academic, infrastructural, and extra-curricular opportunities. The prime objective of these schools should be to guarantee that the students excel in educational activities while also making a mark in the extra-curricular arena. They should make the safety of the students their priority while ensuring that the students thrive in a secure and supportive learning environment. ABODES OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT
- 5. This is where the most prominent boarding schools step in. These leading schools provide top-notch facilities to the students. These may include impressive architecture, cutting-edge technologies in the classrooms, and immersive learning experiences. These impactful boarding schools provide students with every opportunity to nurture their skills and learn new things. With many transformational experiences provided by these schools, students learn to push their limits and tackle difficult circumstances. They work towards developing the personality of every student while unleashing their potential. The top boarding schools inculcate essential skills and good behaviour in the students right from an early age. This helps every student to become a better version of themselves. These schools follow strict routines, which help in transforming students into disciplined individuals. Accordingly, they learn to complete every task on time while avoiding errors and rectifying errors. To provide students with every opportunity to learn new things, these schools introduce innovative curriculum. They are the heralds of change and development in the education systems. These boarding schools are driven to help the students in building their pathway towards career excellence. They shape every student into future leaders of the nation, who, in turn, guide the nation towards a bright future. Hence, in this issue of The Knowledge Review, we present to you some of the most celebrated boarding schools, which deliver the best academic and infrastructural facilities while ensuring the overall development of the students. To know more about these schools, browse through the pages. T R Ananda Kamal Das ananda@insightssuccess.com Ananda Kamal Das
- 6. C N O TE TS N Casting Life in a Boarding Learning Life Management with Boarding Schools Edutalk Importance of Boarding Schools in a Student’s Mental Development 22 32 Articles
- 7. APU American International School The Training Grounds for Future Global Citizens British International School, Phuket Education in Paradise North London Collegiate School Jeju Home of Future World Leaders Regents International School Pattaya Leading the Way in International Education 08 16 26 36
- 8. AUGUST, 2021 Copyright © 2021 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Insights success. Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. The Knowledge Review is powered by Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. CORPORATE OFFICE www.facebook.com/theknowledgereview/ twitter.com/theknowledgerv Follow us on We are also available on People behind this edition Editor-in-Chief Sumita Sarkar Co-designer Rahul Shinde Priyanka Rajage Art & Design Head SME-SMO Executive Atul Dhoran Circulation Manager Tanaji Digital Marketing Manager Amol Wadekar Technical Specialist Pratiksha Patil Marketing Manager David Brown Business Development Executives Naitiki Ambekar, Elena Brown Operations Head Megha Mishra Managing Editor Vinayak Ghorpade Contributing Writers Devyanni, Trishika, Ananda Assisting Editor Aditya Umale The Knowledge Review sales@insightssuccess.com
- 9. URL Name of the Institution Brief Ardvreck School regents-pattaya.co.th Ardvreck school believes in environment-based education and is aware that life beyond the school gate presents challenges and so, being a prep school, it takes the word ‘preparatory’ very seriously APU American International School bisphuket.ac.th British International School, Phuket nlcsjeju.co.kr APU strives to develop positive, contributing members of the local and global community by nurturing their skills of communication, critical thinking, and creativity North London Collegiate School Jeju The ethos of the North London Collegiate School Jeju is based around the “three pillars of education” - 'Academic Excellence’, ‘Pastoral Care’, and ‘Beyond the Classroom’ Regents International School Pattaya Regents International School Pattaya inspires its students to achieve academic excellence together with a sense of adventure and the compassion to make the world a better place ardvreckschool.co.uk Known for its outstanding holistic education and its remarkably strong ‘academy’ structure and facilities, the British International School, Phuket offers a truly unique international education experience for both boarding and day students apu.edu.vn THE MOST TRUSTED BOARDING SCHOOLS IN 2021
- 10. The Training Grounds for Future Global Citizens APU AMERICAN International School Aschool where the leaders are prompt in delivering, where the minds of students are challenged, and where students feel safe - produce citizens of a global community. Vietnam has come a long way in education and houses some of the excellent schools that practice these very principles. APU American International School is one such inde- pendent, co-educational university preparatory day school with two campuses and boarding facilities located in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam. Since its inception in 2004, APU has continuously participated in the economic development of Vietnam by offering high-quality education to K-12 learners. Following the success of Ho Chi Minh City’s campus, the institute is pleased to have opened the APU American International School in Da Nang City in 2015, which continues to provide the APU quality, exuberance, and brand in the Central region of Vietnam, opening its doors to more than 280 students, from ten different nationalities Also, for the 2020-2021 school year, APU American International School has launched the Bilingual Program. APU American International School offers a boarding program for students who either do not live in Vietnam or students who want to participate in the boarding school experience. Its dormitory facilities are in a safe, secure, and captivating campus. Mission Statement: APU is committed to providing a quality American education/experience in Vietnam. Its focus is on nurturing skills in communication, critical thinking, and creativity. 8 | August 2021
- 11. APU empowers auto-didacts in athletics, 21st century skills, the arts, and of course, academic excellence. By making use of various academic pathways, APU creates international minded global citizens st APU empowers auto-didacts in athletics, 21 century skills, the arts, and of course, academic excellence. By making use of various academic pathways, APU creates international minded global citizens. Vision: APU strives to develop positive, contributing members of the local and global community. As community members, students demonstrate concern, not only for their personal well-being but also for the well-being of others. Through problem-solving, empathy, altruism, and community service, APU inspires students to become global leaders. APU Belief Statement – We believe: Ÿ Each student is unique, has distinctive learning styles and individual rates of development and requires a variety of teaching strategies. Ÿ Students learn best in an environment where leaders are prompt and prepared and that promotes care for others, acceptance of responsibility, where children are encouraged to work together and showing respect to others. Ÿ The minds of students are challenged by employing a curriculum that is dynamic and is responsive to the varying needs of the society. Ÿ Teachers and administrators are professionals who work continuously to upgrade their knowledge and engage in activities that enhance their effectiveness as educators. Ÿ Teachers and administrators are professionals who continually seek to develop innovative strategies that enrich the educational climate, whilst simultaneously upgrading their knowledge and engagement in activities that enhance their effectiveness as educators. Ÿ School personnel, students, parents, the entire commu- nity are in a harmonious partnership dedicated to demonstrating an active commitment to education. Expected Schoolwide Learning Results (ESLRs) These are the expected skills and characteristics that students should have when they graduate: Academic Excellence – Learning should promote personal academic growth and achievement with a focus on: Ÿ Creativity and critical thinking Ÿ Effective communication Ÿ Self-motivated learning Ÿ Reflective Learning Purpose - Student learning will focus on the purpose of emphasizing leadership, empathy, and responsibility. Therefore, students will: Ÿ Exhibit personal responsibility, respectful conduct, and good citizenship Ÿ Will act in a safe manner and look out for the safety of others Ÿ Focus on collaboration, team building and sportsman- ship Ÿ Develop skills of Global Leaders Ÿ Actively engage and contribute to the community The Most Trusted Boarding Schools in 2021 www.theknowledgereview.com | 9
- 12. Binh Tran Nguyen (Dr. Binh Tran), the Superintendent of APU American International School, has spent more than 20 years at the forefront of the educational innovation sector in Vietnam. She continues to nurture generations of Vietnamese students who confidently prove themselves internationally. She likes to know each family and student personally, as she wants to see them succeed in their education goals. Dr. Binh Tran has been able to secure millions of dollars in scholarships during the past several years to allow gifted scholars the chance to study at top rate institutions in the United States. Every year, she tries her utmost best to leverage APU’s relationships with her US partner universities to offer generous scholarships for the high performing graduates. So far, Dr. Binh Tran has guided and mentored more than 4,000 students on their career paths in the U.S. and many other countries around the world. The Art of Engagement Extra-curricular and co-curricular activities and events include: Ÿ Extra-curricular club system, online sharing with other schools, holiday cultural celebrations, ‘School Spirit Week’, school community-based games involving teacher/student, advisory time, ‘out of school’ community volunteerism opportunities. Ÿ The elementary school has a traditional homeroom structure where the teacher is responsible for core content teaching and learning. Students stay together in all classes. Ÿ The secondary school has a “House System” that allows Understanding - Students should have an understanding of themselves, their role and responsibility in the world and therefore: Ÿ Exhibit a healthy lifestyle Ÿ Demonstrate resiliency Ÿ Maintain positive social, emotional and physical well- being Ÿ Develop a variety of interests and pursuits to live a balanced life The Engaging yet Safe Accommodations APU American International School offers a good boarding facility available for students who either do not live in Vietnam or students who want to participate in the boarding school experience. Its dormitory facilities are located within five minutes walking distance from the school campus. Many senior staff members are appointed as dorm parents, and dormitory students also have a big brother or big sister that is appointed by the school. The dorm parents take quasi-parental responsibility for students in the house at all times, particularly outside school hours. All dorms have a lounge and kitchen area for students to socialize, do homework or make snacks. Each dorm bedroom houses either one or two borders. Each bedroom is furnished with twins or queen-sized beds, dressers, wardrobes, end tables and desks. The APU Student Life team works hard to make each dorm feel homey, secure and comfortable for our students. The Veteran Chief With the ambition of creating a learning environment in Vietnam that meets American standards, Dr. Binh Thy 10 | August 2021
- 13. students to engage in extra-curricular activities with a school community group. There is a secondary school ‘student council’ to organize student activities and events. Future Proofing The Mission, Vision, and ESLRs were developed to promote the school’s purpose, which was initially to provide a pathway to American education after high school, but now has developed into a grander ideal; to prepare students for continuing education in the United States, with the hope that many will return to Vietnam and take on leadership roles in the community for good. Ÿ Curriculum evaluation and implementation will focus on high expectations that will prepare students for future career and post-secondary learning. Ÿ Greater Pathways for individual learning were offered to the students. Ÿ SAT Math and English preparatory courses and TOEFL classes were offered to college bound students. Ÿ The foreign languages program was increased from Spanish and French, to include Korean, Mandarin, Japanese, German, and Vietnamese for foreign students. Ÿ The AP program was implemented with six courses: Calculus AB and BC, Computer Science Principles, Environmental Science, Human Geography, and World History. Ÿ The College Bridge Program was expanded to allow for a more diverse course catalogue, especially as more students began choosing this option in favor of moving to the USA due to Covid. Aspiring to Make a Difference As APU evolved, it became important to focus on the whole student, in academics, character development, and personalized learning. APU recreated its new vision; to create positive, contributing, community members, that will be future leaders both locally and globally, which the institute supports by providing community service and leadership opportunities within and outside of the school. The school community will deepen its ability to articulate and foster growth toward the dreams of students and to provide equitable opportunities for everyone. It will seek to understand that one size does not fit all, and that individuality and an internal locus of control is a key component to connecting content and leaner goals. Curriculum evaluation and implementation will focus on high expectations that will prepare students for future career and post-secondary learning, said APU’s administration. “As a part of a targeted and continuous cycle of evaluation, we will be able to monitor teacher effectiveness leading to greater instructional engagement of learners. In addition, as part of our short-term goals we will develop individual learning plans for every student which will allow the school, students, and parents to plan a successful program of study from kindergarten to grade 12 and beyond,” concluded the astute leader of APU, Dr. Binh Tran. www.theknowledgereview.com | 11
- 14. DA NANG CITY CAMPUS – 299 Tran Dai Nghia Street, Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District, Danang City, Viet Nam. HO CHI MINH CITY CAMPUS – Elementary School: 501 Lac Long Quan Street, Ward 5, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam. Middle & High School: 286 Lanh Binh Thang Street, Ward 11, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam. The American University in Vietnam – AUV Building on the success of APU, a long process led to the creation of the first American-style university, located in the same Danang campus: the American University in Vietnam (AUV). AUV is a four-year degree granting university providing liberal arts education and majors to quality-conscious students. AUV is ideal for those who demand top-notch instruction, a solid foundation for advanced career skills, a supportive learning environment, and the opportunity for direct placement in graduate programs (MA, MS, MBA, PhD) in American universities. AUV’s curriculum is entirely based on the American model of higher education. Before choosing to major in a specialized area of interest, students must complete a rigorous general studies program. They must demonstrate proficiency in communication and basic academic skills before strengthening their critical thinking and analytical abilities through a comprehensive study of social sciences, arts and humanities, math and natural sciences, technology and global communication. AUV is accountable to the universities in the U.S. with whom it partners, an International Advisory Board, governing national laws and regulations, and to its world-class faculty and administrative staff. Campus Information
- 15. Notable achievements 1. APU School has been accredited by Cognia (formerly AdvancED) for pre- kindergarten through twelfth grade. 2. APU is a member of the College Board, and is authorized to offer the SAT, Advanced Placement (AP), PSAT and the ACT exams. 3. The ELD Department became a member of the WIDA International School Consortium and has begun using the WIDA assessments to monitor progress and differentiate instruction for their ELL students. The ELD teachers also were trained on how to use the WIDA results to drive their instruction and give support for their ELLs. 4. K-5 curriculum follows the CCSS and is taught in English. NGSS in science and AERO in SS, Grade 9 -12 course are college preparatory, including Advanced Placement. 5. Every year, over 90% of APU Graduates receive scholarships from world’s well- established universities that include Canada, U.S, and Australian universities with a total value of more than five million US dollars. $20+ million in scholarships from top-ranked universities have been given to APU graduates this past year. www.theknowledgereview.com | 13
- 18. Education in Paradise Tropical beaches, exotic local markets, hidden temples, shopping malls, and a thriving international community. Phuket is a dream destination for those who mellow in the sun and thrive in the night. With an expansive expat community, abundant family-friendly opportunities, and highly regarded international schools, setting up camp on this tropical island is as lucrative as it gets. One such prominent international school which has made a name for itself for its outstanding holistic education and its remarkably strong ‘academy’ structure and facilities is the British International School, Phuket. British International School, Phuket (BISP) is a co-educational day and boarding school, established in 1996 and set on the island of Phuket on a picturesque 44-acre campus. The school was founded upon the vision of two well-known Thai educators, Mr Prasit Ourairat and Dr Arthit Ourairat. Their aim was to create a high-quality international day and boarding school on the beautiful island of Phuket. The school was an international pioneer for partnerships with the UK independent school sector and became the founding Dulwich International College. In 2005, the Board of Governors decided to broaden the school and also took the opportunity to change its name to British International School, Phuket (BISP). BISP has the capacity to provide education for over 1000 day and boarding students and currently educates 60 different student nationalities, with its alumni graduating from many top universities from around the world. Primary and secondary students share a lush green, well-equipped campus. The Campus Facilities Arts: Ÿ 2 Art Rooms Ÿ 4 Music Rooms Ÿ 1 Drama Studio Ÿ 1 Auditorium Ÿ 1 Primary Hall Ÿ Music Practice Rooms STEM: Ÿ 4 DT Workshops Ÿ 6 Science Labs Ÿ 2 IT Labs Ÿ Primary Cooking Room Sports: Ÿ Sports Hall Ÿ Gymnasium Ÿ Fitness Centre Ÿ 2 full-size Football Pitches or 12 seven-side Pitches Ÿ Tennis Centre Ÿ Golf Centre Ÿ Trapeze Ÿ 25m and 50m Swimming Pool Ÿ 400m grass Athletics Track General Facilities: Ÿ Separate Primary and Secondary libraries Ÿ Food refectory with chef Ÿ 8 boarding houses Ÿ 5 security-controlled school entrances Ÿ Facial and thermal recognition technology throughout the school Ÿ 2 medical infirmaries The aim in boarding is to foster a supportive and caring community for students from Year 4 to Year 13, where the students value belonging to a wider family. Boarders learn how to live, to work, to take on responsibility, and socialise in an internationally diverse community. Boarding houses provide easy access to educational and sporting facilities. Houseparents are allocated to specific houses/age groups relevant to their BritishInternational School,Phuket 16 | August 2021
- 19. The school understands that learning happens everywhere at any time. British International School, Phuket’s model for holistic learning aims to develop the whole child, and to instil a lifelong love of learning through active engagement background and experience and represent the following countries: Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Philippines, France, UK, Brazil, and Korea. Mission Inspire Learning; Nurture Wellbeing; Ignite Passion Vision Maximise student potential by delivering the highest standards of teaching and learning to an international community emphasising wellbeing and passion, on a green, well-equipped campus Values Respect Be mindful, considerate, and inclusive Compassion Be caring, empathetic, and reflective Integrity Be honest, principled, and accountable Triple Helix The educational philosophy of the British International School, Phuket is uniquely founded upon the model of a Triple Helix, where each of the three strands (Learning, Wellbeing and Passion) is identified as being interdependent and essential components of a balanced and productive life. Learning at BISP is ‘holistic’, in that it cultivates the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive dimensions of the developing child. While schools organise learning in ‘academic’ and ‘enrichment’ programmes, BISP does not limit learning to within the walls of any particular classroom or within the boundaries of any particular ‘subject’. The school understands that learning happens everywhere at any time. Its model for holistic learning aims to develop the whole child and to instil a www.theknowledgereview.com | 17
- 20. ‘wellbeing’ through the concepts of ‘Engage’, ‘Relate’ and ‘Shine’. A well- defined and delivered framework founded upon these ‘pillars’ is the basis for academic staff and student participation throughout the school. Passion ‘Passion’ is defined in terms of an individual’s capacity to embrace life itself, even though this might manifest itself in a singular pursuit. It is what drives people, motivates, and gives purpose. At BISP, students are encouraged to follow their passions with energy and enthusiasm and to value the process of their experience as much as the outcome of their effort and achievement. The home away from home As a boarding student at BISP, your child will join a safe, caring, and supportive community with 24/7 adult supervision. Your child will benefit from a structured, balanced lifestyle, a strong sense of community, a multicultural environment, and the opportunity to build friendships for life. BISP boarders enjoy access to a green, tree-lined forty-four-acre campus as well as on-site sporting facilities (two swimming pools, football fields, sports hall, tennis courts, golf course). The academic buildings are just a three-minute walk across the campus, and the BISP team lifelong love of learning through active engagement. Wellbeing Holistic education at BISP places ‘wellbeing’ at the heart of its learning community. Students find identity, meaning, and purpose, that lead to personal growth and fulfilment. In the Primary Section, the two driving concepts of ‘respect’ and ‘kindness’ are used as a basis for all relationships and interactions. In the Secondary Section, the school directs attention to makes the most of their tropical island location with supervised weekend boarding trips. Facilities of boarding All young people need a safe haven to escape to at times, and BISP boarders enjoy the privacy of their own personal study bedroom; a private space that they can use flexibly and can personalise to suit their school day and weekend downtime. Each room is equipped with a single bed, study desk, wardrobe, chest of drawers and boasts ample space for decoration, and from home personal touches. Older students also enjoy access to en suite bathroom facilities. BISP boarding houses feature large communal spaces in which students can relax, study, and socialise together. Multi-cultural community With over sixty student nationalities at BISP, boarders become part of a diverse multicultural community. This breadth of cultural backgrounds encourages open-mindedness, adaptability, and an appreciation for the perspectives of others, as well as expanding student horizons. BISP boarders have the opportunity to make friends for life as well as assume both personal and social accountability within their international community. Holistic education at BISP places ‘wellbeing’ at the heart of its learning community. Students find identity, meaning, and purpose, that lead to personal growth and fulfilment 18 | August 2021
- 21. exceptional grassed spaces, vast facilities and staff expertise. The programme caters for the needs and passions of students whilst giving them the opportunity to sample a wide range of new experiences. Professional coaches oversee the swimming, football, tennis, golf, aerial arts, and trapeze activities from basic to high- performance level. There are more than 300 activity sessions per week. Some of the major activities that attract a high number of students include: Sports: Football, Basketball, Tennis; Golf, Swimming (both Competitive and Learn to Swim), Badminton, Gymnastics. Circus Arts: Trapeze, Silks. Arts: Musical productions, Pantomime, Drama Club, Concert bands, Cantamus Choirs, instrumental tuition, Art Academy. Others: Fun field games, Cooking, Public Speaking and Debate, MUN, Chess club “In line with our mission, the BISP team encourages students to ignite passion and to follow their dreams.” The Pandemic Holdup On the island of Phuket, BISP considers itself to be very fortunate to close the school for a very short time only. The school established best practices against covid-19 which the community adhered to in a positive and safe way. Online learning was managed by teachers, who had video contact with students in every lesson. This high level of engagement ensured students were monitored and able to access the different methods of educational instruction. Surveys enabled the faculty to gather feedback and to continually improve instruction. A bright future awaits This year the school will celebrate 25 years of education. Having developed a new mission, vision, and values, BISP looks forward to the board announcing a future plan of development for its educational offerings and facilities. The BISP boarding community becomes a support network for life; a global family with shared and treasured memories. Meet the Team At BISP, they maintain a team approach with regards to the student body as a whole. The Headmaster, school principals, boarding staff, teachers, wellbeing team, coaches, and support staff all work cooperatively to ensure that a student's life is balanced and well-cared for. A Truly Holistic Experience BISP offers an extensive activities programme, fully utilising the The Most Trusted Boarding Schools in 2021
- 24. Learning LifeManagement with Boarding Schools - By Vinayak Ghorpade 22 | August 2021
- 25. Casting Life in a Boarding www.theknowledgereview.com | 23
- 26. inculcates a sense of discipline and punctuality in the students. 2. Personal Development There is a huge scope for personal development in the boarding schools than the normal public schools. Residing away from the loved ones is a great way to increase mental toughness. In regular schools, students get more care from the parents as well as the teachers. In contrast, boarding school students need to be self-reliant, and they have to take the responsibility of their education. Hence, these students develop life skills such as managing priorities, time management, and the ability to not to succumb mental pressure. 3. Self-reliance Regular school students are mostly dependent on their family. They have extra facilities such as external tuitions and personal care, which makes them over-dependent on their family. This over-dependency effects their decision- taking ability. Apart from the sheltered students in regular schools, boarding school students learn to take care of themselves from early phase of life. They learn to do work on their own, knowing that they are not in the shadow of their family. This kind of self-reliance minimizes their dependency on the family. 4. Peer Learning Living away from the family creates an emotional vacuum, allowing the friends and roommates to capture this space. The students from different backgrounds share their experience and knowledge with other students. Most of the students get inspired from peer learning than from the schoolteachers. Usually, they tend to clear their basic concepts form the peers. They share their problems and ideas with friends and get the solutions. They get to know many unknown things through peer learning. Boarding life is not a bed of roses but also it is not like a bull riding. It is a mould which shapes the life of a student and provides many virtues to their life. It is not easy to let your child leave the home early, especially when you are very possessive towards him/her. But looking at the bigger picture, boarding school is a good choice to bid on. Afterall, life is not always black and white, it’s a million shades of grey. One who understands it, understands life. Birds usually kick off their young ones from the nest once they become capable of living on their own. Some of them fly high towards the sky while some of them fail to reach the sky. Life is a challenge and those who accept it early, muster the strength to brave the challenge of life. The human being is no exception to this. Practical and behavioural knowledge are the key aspects to sustain in this cruel world. This knowledge should be taught to the child from an early age. Therefore, boarding schools are important, where students are trained to develop their life management skills. It is a common consideration that either a studious child goes to the boarding, or a stubborn kid is admitted there. The former goes with his/her own wish while the latter goes forcefully. Boarding life is often portrayed as a story of slavery. It is always connected to the persecution and the harsh rules. But only looking at the darker side will not erase the positives it provides to the life of students. Boarding school is the guide that teaches you the basics of life. It makes students capable of facing the challenges and boosts their confidence to overcome the barriers. Admitting children to the nearest school and receiving them at the end of the day might not really help them to nurture their skills. This is where boarding schools gain upper hand over the regular day-schools. Life in a Boarding Schools If you ask any alumni of boarding school about their experience, they usually relate it with the military school. The rules and regulations are as strict as the military schools. But statistics show that boarding students are more prepared for life and get success early in their career. Though boarding life is like a military school, it flourishes the skills of a child. Let’s explore the advantages of a boarding school. 1. Punctuality and Discipline It is not an exaggeration to say that boarding schools are bound to the pendulum of a clock. The overall workflow of a boarding school runs on a strict schedule and there is no excuse for anyone to not follow this schedule. They have to do all their activities in the given timeline such as waking up, exercising, studying, eating, and sleeping. It is mandatory for every student to follow this strict timeline and manage their schedule accordingly. This strict schedule 24 | August 2021 T R
- 28. Home of Future World Leaders The best possible upbringing of a child is the primary concern for all parents. Therefore more and more parents are turning towards boarding schools as they offer a huge variety of benefits to students. The decision to attend boarding school is the first step in what most would consider a verybigdecision. Many leaders and successful members of society began their journies at the boarding school – ministers, actors, presidents, athletes, entrepreneurs and other commercial figures. What makes boarding schools work so well is the multitude of activities, programs, opportunities, and challenges available to the students on a daily basis. The average boarding school student wants to take advantage of this once-in-a- lifetime chance to live in a community that prioritises study, personal growth, and discovery; where programmes and activities abound; where making friends is easy and where achievement is rewarded. And where better to capitalise on this opportunity than the Jeju, South Korea-based North London Collegiate School Jeju. North London Collegiate School (NLCS) Jeju is a sister school to NLCS in the UK. NLCS was founded in 1850 in North London by education pioneer, Frances Mary Buss and her family. NLCS Jeju is part of an initiative called Global Education City (GEC) – and was one of the first schools there. The GEC was set up to ensure that Koreans and Korean passport-holders - as well as international students - can have access to international education. The school provides an exceptional British education to almost 1500 students and considers the boarders to receive an enhanced exceptional British education. NLCS Jeju follows the mission and principles of NLCS. The ethos of the school is based around the “three pillars of education”. These three pillars are ‘Academic Excellence’, ‘Pastoral Care’, and ‘Beyond the Classroom’. NLCS’s academic results are excellent – last year it was considered a ‘Top 25 Global IB School’ with an average of 39 points. Achieving this with students who are
- 29. We hope to provide more boys and girls with an international perspective on the world, an array of academic achievement and an empathetic and understanding way of viewing the world almost all non-native English speakers is a testament to the quality of teaching and learning at this school. “Our pastoral care is second to none and we ensure that our team includes Emotional Guidance Counsellors, University Guidance Counsellors and teachers, tutors, Heads of Years who are always there to talk to each child,” says the Principal of NLCS Jeju, Ms Lynne Oldfield. The ‘Beyond The Currriculum’ program offers 150 + activities per week to ensure that every child can explore their interests, develop their passions, and learn the power of taking risks and making choices. “We believe that our students really do Start here. Go anywhere.” Holistic Development NLCS hopes that every child fulfils his or her potential. To that end, the school offers a rounded curriculum with the IGCSE courses in Years 10 and 11 and the IB Diploma Programme in Years 12 and 13. Each child is able to explore Maths, English, Korean, other modern and classical languages along with sciences and humanities. The school also prioritises the Arts – with almost all of its students choosing to play an instrument. Sports, dance and drama also help round off a full curriculum. Principal Ms Lynne Oldfield adds, “We believe that there are no ceilings – only floors. Students really can reach for the stars. Almost all our students go on to prestigious UK and US institutions - having found the right path for them during their time at school.” There are 150+ extra-curricular activities per week including Music, The Most Trusted Boarding Schools in 2021 Drama, Arts, Sports, Crafts, Service, Debate, Leadership and everything in between. Extra-curricular forms part of the timetable so every child is able to benefit daily. The Success of Boarding The school commends its amazing Boarding Masters and Mistresses for the success of boarding at NLCS Jeju. They care passionately about each and every child whatever their age or stage. They are ably supported by Assistant BMs and by a network of Gap and Graduate Assistants who understand just what it means to be a boarder. The homes are warm and welcoming - offering a happy place to live and to make and grow friendships for life. The homes also satisfy all study needs. The study bedrooms are set up to allow quiet, independent study - but there are also separate areas where one can study, ask for and receive academic advice and support – and many nooks and crannies where students simply relax and read a book. www.theknowledgereview.com | 27
- 30. ACultivatedLeadership Principal, Ms Lynne Oldfield is a very experienced international Head. Throughout a long and successful career she has previously worked in the UK, China, and Kazakhstan. She believes strongly in the ethos of all NLCS schools. She is strong and thoughtful - listening to teachers and to students. The school is a happy and successful institution that has reached capacity and waiting lists within its first decade. Its reputation in Korea is second to none. Bolstering Futures Students are prepared for leaving from the day they join. NLCS Jeju equips them with an extremely high level of written and spoken English, Ms Lynne Oldfield Principal The three pillars of education at NLCS are ‘Academic Excellence’, ‘Pastoral Care’, and ‘Beyond The Curriculum’ 28 | August 2021
- 31. exceptional academic standards and a sense of international-mindedness and values which will serve them well as young adults. The school has a very experienced University Guidance Counselling team who meet regularly with each student and offer advice and support with applications to world-class institutions. Pastoral, Academic and Boarding Staff are ready to talk, help and support each student as they move up the school. The Ongoing Legacy of Excellence North London Collegiate School is a Global Top 25 IBDP School. NLCS’s class of 2020 achieved 10 offers from Oxbridge and 12 from Ivy League colleges. Each individual student lists academic achievements, awards, challenges and more from a wide spectrum of enterprises and institutions. Most students take 10 - 11 IGCSEs - again as non-native English speakers, this is incredible. The students excel in Maths and the Sciences – but the school sends a vast number of students each year to the finest arts institutions such as the Slade, Parsons, The New School and many more. “We were pioneers of online education. South Korea went early into the virtual world in February 2020, and we firmly believe that this very steep learning curve has served staff and students well. We have – over the last 18 months – offered online/blended/in school learning which has challenged and supported each individual student and continued to provide an exceptional British education in the safest of environments,” states Ms. Oldfield. Aspiring to Make a Difference NLCS Jeju is looking forward to the next decade as the leading international school in South Korea. In this pursuit, it hopes to provide more boys and girls with an international perspective on the world, an array of academic achievement, and an empathetic and understanding way of viewing the world. www.theknowledgereview.com | 29
- 34. Importance of Boarding Schools in a Student’s Mental Development - By Ananda Kamal Das Edutalk 32 | August 2021
- 36. provide comprehensive education to the students, but also shape their character and assist them in growing intellectually. Inculcating a Greater Sense of Independence While studying in boarding schools, students develop a higher sense of independence. As a result, they become self-reliant and learn how to face and overcome challenges in their lives. This makes them stronger, efficient leaders, who can take initiatives on their own. In boarding schools, students not only have to manage their own affairs, but also learn how to live and deal with other people. Here, students learn how important self-planning, self-accountability, and self-motivation are. Enhancing Life Skills and Natural Abilities For any student, a tenure in boarding schools inculcates life skills and natural abilities in them. As a result, they become resilient and strong enough to manage their respective lives’ problems, challenges, circumstances, and so on. Strengthening Social Skills and Friendships When a student resides in a boarding school for a considerable amount of time, they develop social skills and learn how to make new friends. This, in turn, assists in the mental growth of students. The wonderful, flourishing, and supportive ambience of a boarding school are some of the reasons why parents choose boarding schools for the development of their children. Owing to a cooperative environment in the classroom, and constant support of classmates and teachers, students reach newer heights in their education. Beyond the Classroom Authorities of boarding schools believe that learning is not limited to classrooms. Hence, students are often taken to field trips and outdoor locations, so that they can learn more about the subject matter. In many boarding schools, students and teachers live together in the same campus. This provides the students with many advantages, as they can consult their teachers any time regarding any query or confusion they have about any subject or topic. Boarding schools act as a launchpad for the mental development and academic growth of any student. With proper management and administrative policies, authorities can ensure that students become confident enough to overcome all odds and make a mark in their lives and careers. Boarding schools offer a gamut of opportunities and advantages to the students. These advantages have everlasting effects on the academic and career development of any student. The structure of boarding schools is focused on allowing the students to learn in an organized and fine ambience. While staying in boarding schools, students learn to become dynamic and productive, which, in turn, creates a sense of belongingness and security. These schools operate with the objective of creating an excellent atmosphere, which fosters mental health and life skills, while establishing resourcefulness, social confidence, and flexibility. Boarding schools come with their own set of benefits such as discipline, punctuality, obedience, and so on. Hence, while staying in boarding schools, disobedient and naughty children learn life lessons, and set themselves into a disciplined lifestyle. The ambience also changes their attitude. Moreover, they also conduct various curricular and extra-curricular activities on a regular basis, which ensures overall development of the students. There are many boarding schools, which emphasize on the nutritional well-being of the students, which, in turn, directly impacts their mental development. They ensure that the students follow a healthy diet to ensure nutritional development of the students. The boarding school authorities also make sure that the students are motivated to participate in at least one outdoor sport. This results in enhanced motivation of the students, while also making them physically fit. Furthermore, the authorities of a boarding school make sure that students take part in activities designed to foster team spirit and help in intellectual growth. Ways in which Boarding Schools ensure a Student’s Mental Growth Moving on, let’s explore how boarding schools contribute to the mental development of students: Creating and Atmosphere which Ensures Overall Nourishment In boarding schools, students experience a cultivating atmosphere with state-of-the-art facilities, mental and emotional support, and necessary regulations to ensure the protection of the students. The focus of any boarding school is to create a warm and caring ambience, which encourages the students to learn and grow. These schools not only 34 | August 2021 T R
- 38. Leading the Way in International Education is also garnering a reputation for itself as a rising educational hub. The education institutions of Chonburi have set a standard for themselves for amazing teachers, great diversity of learning and career options, and an unwavering attitude to st inculcate 21 century skillsets into its students. An exemplar of such high standards is a school located in Banglamung, Pong which has earned a reputation for itself as being one The Kingdom of Thailand is highly regarded for its tropical climate, great cuisine, majestic mountains and fascinating culture, and of course, the beaches. The country's breath-taking natural beauty and amicable people have been the reason enough for so many travellers to find a permanent refuge there. At the eastern coast of this 'Land of Smiles' is located the province of Chonburi, which is best known for the city of Pattaya and for being a part of the Eastern Seaboard economic region. Lately, this province 36 | August 2021
- 39. The school's ambition for its students is for them to achieve more than they thought possible, to be academically successful and to become compassionate people who will go on to make the world a better place of most successful schools on the Eastern Seaboard for over 25 years. It is the one and only – Regents International School Pattaya. Established in 1994, Regents International School Pattaya (RISP) is the most established and successful international school on the eastern seaboard of Thailand. Now part of the Nord Anglia family of 73 premium international schools, based in 30 countries around the world, the school offers personalised learning to students from 2 to 18 years old. The campus is located in a beautiful rural area surrounded by palm trees but within easy reach of fantastic amenities such as scuba diving, water parks, wave boarding, elephant sanctuaries, Thai cultural sites, shopping, cinemas and so much more. The institute has outstanding facilities including high-tech science labs and a vibrant creative arts centre all providing the perfect environment for its innovative focus on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) learning. The school also has excellent sports facilities with a double size air-conditioned sports hall, astro-turf, track, grass rugby pitch, fitness centre and swimming pools. All the school facilities are available for its boarding students after school and at the weekends. Regents' boarding house is on the main school campus with separate houses for boys and girls. Younger students have bedrooms for 2-3 students, which helps to establish strong friendships early on. The school also provides single rooms available for older students who need more quiet study time and personal space. The Most Trusted Boarding Schools in 2021 Philosophy: “We are ambitious for our students and teachers, providing forward thinking international education so that our students can achieve more than they thought possible.” Vision: “To inspire our students to achieve academic excellence together with a sense of adventure and the compassion to make the world a better place.” Be Ambitious Be Regents: This statement underpins the school's philosophy and objectives, bringing together the Round Square IDEALS (Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership and Service), its 'Be Ambitious' framework and the International Baccalaureate philosophy of making the world a better place. What Matters The staff and faculty over at regents motivate their students to become advanced learners who are creative, curious, and innovative. They motivate the students to become confident www.theknowledgereview.com | 37
- 40. and socially responsible people who will have the ability to go on to study at their first-choice university. The school's ambition for its students is for them to achieve more than they thought possible, to be academically successful and to become compassionate people who will go on to make the world a better place. “Our experienced team of Boarding House Parents ensure that every child settles in quickly to our happy and caring family. They are also there to ensure parents are involved in every step of the way in this experience,” said the Principal of Regents International School Pattaya, Ms Sarah Osborne-James. The Inspiring Leader The school principal, Ms Sarah Osborne-James, is an experienced school leader that joined the school four years ago. Sarah always knew that she wanted to be a teacher with an overwhelming desire to have a positive impact in the world. She was encouraged by one particular person who believed in her, encouraged her and gave her the strength to pursue her dreams. This experience is what now drives her to be 'that person' for both - the students and the teachers at Regents Internationals School Pattaya. As per Sarah, the benefits of an international education are clear. Consecutively, students at RISP not only have a great academic education, but they also develop the characteristics and attributes of emotional intelligence that will help them to be happy and successful in the future. They are given many opportunities to develop their leadership skills, often on a global scale since RISP is a Nord Anglia school. “In our multi-cultural community, the old stereotypes are destroyed,” commented the austere Ms Sarah Osborne- James. “Learning new languages and discovering different cultures truly prepares our children for life in an ever-changing and challenging world,” she added. A Holistic Approach Regents International School Pattaya has well over 200 different co-curricular activities available and all students have to participate in at least one every week. They range from basketball, football, swimming, golf, to horse riding, sailing, scuba diving, Minecraft, and dancing, as well as additional academic support, particularly for older students preparing for exams. Bolstering Futures At Regents, the whole school philosophy is focused on preparing its students for the future with the Round Square values playing an important role in this. The school offers many opportunities for students to develop their leadership skills, work to help support its numerous community partners, become more environmentally aware, attend Ms Sarah Osborne-James Principal 38 | August 2021
- 41. adventurous school activities and trips around the world such as school projects in Tanzania and climbing Kilimanjaro (during a normal year). The Pandemic Challenge RISP Pattaya has a strict set of guidelines to adhere to by the Thai authorities. It has temperature checks in place, hand- sanitizer, and social distancing as well as a tracking app that is used in Thailand. The school has a very successful virtual learning platform that allows its teachers to deliver live lessons to students following their normal timetable. The faculty can switch to this very quickly allowing minimum disruption to the students learning journey. The Future Awaits The future is looking bright and Regents International School Pattaya aims to continue to help students to achieve academic success, a sense of adventure, and the compassion to make the world a better place. It's an exciting time to study at Regents International School right now! Contact: admissions@regents-pattaya.co.th Website - www.regents-pattaya.co.th www.theknowledgereview.com | 39