Blog | OWIS - Singapore

When it comes to academic performance, parents and administrators have long focused on curriculum design and teacher quality. While there’s no denying that curriculum design and teacher quality are vitally important, this focus overlooks the importance of educational infrastructure towards academic achievement. Academic buildings must be intentionally designed to inspire, nurture, and educate children in ways that encourage and stimulate while providing a sense of belonging, so all students feel safe to explore and learn.

It may come as a surprise to some parents, but between the ages of three and five, young learners will establish the foundation needed for a lifetime of educational success. On the surface, early childhood education programmes may seem like a lot of playtime with a few simple art projects mixed in, but young students are doing some serious learning in the classroom.

For example, students who are listening to a story that their teacher is reading are developing their pre-literacy skills. Those that are playing with blocks and other manipulatives are grasping the basics of pre-numeracy skills.

The cost of education in Singapore can be crippling, but it doesn't have to be. The vast majority of parents want the best for their children, and that means providing them with a world-class education. On the surface, it may seem like a higher price tag may yield a better result. The reality, however, is that there are moderate-fee schools that offer an excellent educational experience that is, in many ways, better than the experience found at other more cost-prohibitive institutions.

At OWIS, we believe that outdoor learning is a vital component of a well-rounded education. Our green spaces encourage physical activity, hands-on learning and an appreciation for the environment. Renowned English poet, Willian Wordsworth once said, "Let nature be your teacher”. We prepare students to abide by this adage throughout life, instilling in them principles of environmental stewardship and leadership skills to set an example for others to follow.

At OWIS Nanyang, we are proud of the fact that we offer 32,000 square meters of learning space — which includes several outdoor nature classrooms. These innovative classrooms allow students to spend time learning in a natural environment, as they enjoy the benefits of fresh air and activity. These outdoor nature classrooms have been designed specifically to inspire curiosity by giving students the space they need to roam, explore and make their own discoveries. From our hands-on farm to our sandpits, we offer students unique and interesting spaces to grow. Our outdoor classrooms allow our learners to foster a love of the environment while making connections between their own lives and the natural world that surrounds them.

In order to grow into successful adults and significant citizens of the world, it is necessary to build a strong foundation that includes an open mind, appreciation of the beauty found in nature and one another, and a lifelong love of learning. It’s not easy, but it’s not impossible either.

"Diversity in education" recognises and honours the unique backgrounds of every student, including race, ethnicity, religion, and nationality, and intentionally fosters a multicultural school environment built on respect. But why is diversity so important for our students? A school’s cultural climate directly impacts student success. Students benefit from interacting with a diverse peer group because they learn how to build relationships across backgrounds. They get to experience different traditions, mind-sets, languages and so much more.  They are stronger leaders, better global citizens, and more creative problem solvers. It gives them compassion and empathy when they experience those who come from different backgrounds and allows them to grow into kind and caring individuals. OWIS prides itself on creating an environment of inclusivity and diversity, both with its students and their teachers.

Creating a high-performing school is a goal that exercises educators in every generation. In 2007, a McKinsey Report tackled this question: How did the world's best performing school systems come out on top?

This is a great question to wrestle with when you are trying to design the structure for a new school; and it's a question I have been studying for almost 40 years.

In order to answer this question for myself, I have taken three different journeys around the world to analyse school systems and see what is working, and why. Here's what I have found.

I have seen three major trends in educational research in the last forty years. These trends have led me to believe that international schools play a pivotal role in advancing student achievement.

There’s little doubt that state-of-the-art technology, when used in a learning environment, offers students an educational edge over basic online tools. At the OWIS Nanyang Campus, we ensure our meticulous curriculum is supported by and complemented with the very latest technology, so that our students are given the finest, most current education, and are a step ahead of the rest.

Our approach to delivering quality and modernity spans far beyond the basics. The technology provided at our Nanyang Campus consists of devices designed to help your child navigate and learn. Our combined infrastructure supports optimal learning with no impediments. We are constantly updating our technology and the programmes available to our students. We also teach our students how to remain safe while using technology and when online.