Monthly Newsletter - March 2025
- AISB News
- Apr 1
- 17 min read
Updated: Apr 18
Quick Links
Our Director's Update
March has been another busy month at AISB, and not only in the classrooms. Harmony week in the High School and Year 7 to 9 Camps, preparations for the end of year concerts in Primary school, sports days in our Early Years, and so much more. This newsletter will report on some of these activities and we hope you enjoy reading about them, as they all help make AISB such a vibrant school community.
In this edition of the newsletter, I would like to take the opportunity to share a little about AISB’s strategic plan. Entitled “Into our third decade: Strategic Plan 2025 – 2030”, it details the ambitious intent to reinvigorate the school’s educational portfolio as it enters its third decade. Building upon our core values and founding principles, it outlines the path forward and our future aspirations for AISB.
Key members of the school leadership team and school board were engaged throughout the process to brainstorm, ideate and co-design opportunities for the future. Additionally, insights from parent and staff surveys were analysed and incorporated into the development of the strategic plan.
“Nurturing young leaders of the future”, our updated purpose reflects our future strategic direction.
At AISB, we believe in more than just academic excellence; our purpose is to cultivate well-rounded individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also empathetic, innovative, and globally aware.
Our Strategic Plan identifies six Strategic Pillars around which our efforts will be focussed over the next five years to achieve this purpose.
These strategic pillars are:
Limitless Potential
Life Skills
Compassionate Citizens
Unforgettable Experiences
Boutique School
Enduring Future Development
The following image provides a little more context for each Strategic Pillar.
In turn, each of the Strategic Pillars has been further described and detailed, with action plans developed by the Board and Leadership Team in order for us to realise our ambitions over the next five years.
The following image provides a useful summary of our Strategic Plan as well as being a simple visual reminder of our ambitions.
We invite you to read through the Strategic Plan which can be downloaded from the AISB website, so that you can better understand our strategic direction and the part that all stakeholders – board members, staff, students and parents - can play in its realisation.
Wishing you well for April and in particular for the upcoming Songkran break.
Yours in education,
Henri Bemelmans
Director
Early Years Update
Written by Sheridan Musto, Head of Early Years and Soi 20 Campus
We’ve had a fantastic and engaging month in our Early Years program at AISB! Our students have been busy exploring, building, discovering, and learning in creative and meaningful ways. Here’s a look at some of the wonderful experiences taking place across our Early Years classrooms.
Nursery: Exploring Construction Through Play
Our youngest learners have been diving into the world of construction, using logs, blocks, and a variety of materials to explore how structures are made. Through this hands-on play, children are naturally engaging in early engineering, science, and mathematical thinking. They have had opportunities to experiment with different ways to balance and build, strengthening their problem-solving and fine motor skills. By incorporating natural materials and loose parts, we are encouraging creativity, perseverance, and collaboration as they work together to create unique structures.
Kindergarten: The Living Ocean
Kindergarten students have been on an exciting journey to discover the wonders of the ocean! We have explored the living ocean, deep-sea explorers, and the mysterious dark depths where light does not reach. This unit has allowed children to enhance their literacy, numeracy, science, fine motor, and creative skills in exciting ways. Through hands-on activities, storytelling, and ocean-themed artwork, students have deepened their understanding of marine life while fostering curiosity about the natural world.
Foundation: Measuring and Building
In Foundation, we have been developing measurement skills, focusing on understanding length and size. Students started by exploring what it means for something to be half a length and then expanded our learning by measuring different objects in the classroom. Our young mathematicians built magnificent cities using blocks and then measured the height of their structures. These activities help develop early mathematical thinking, spatial awareness, and problem-solving skills, all while making learning engaging and hands-on.
Year 1: Exploring Our Local Community
In Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS), our Year 1 students have been investigating the features of local places, learning about the natural, managed, and constructed environments around them. Through collaborative projects, they created models of different places, including rivers, ponds, mountains, beaches, farms, parks, gardens, schools, houses, offices, and airports. They also discussed who takes care of these places and how they are built. Using a combination of painting, printing, and drawing, students brought their ideas to life while expanding their understanding of their community.
Kindergarten Sports Day
Earlier this month, our Kindergarten students participated in their first Sports Day at the 313 Campus, and what an exciting day it was! The children showed their energy, teamwork, and enthusiasm through a range of fun physical activities. A big thank you to our Kindergarten and Swim team, and all the parents who came to cheer on our young athletes—it was a fantastic event!
School Photos: Capturing Special Moments
This month also marked our annual school photo sessions at Soi 20. It was wonderful to see so many families registering for family portraits and ensuring that siblings, even those at different campuses or schools, could have their photos taken together. These moments serve as lasting memories of our time together at AISB.
ASA Spotlight
On Soi 20 we have many different kinds of After School Activities for the students to choose from. Some of our favourite ASAs are artistic and creative activities. These hands-on activities encourage children to express themselves through a variety of mediums, from painting and drawing to sculpting and building. Each week, young artists get the chance to experiment with colors, textures, and materials, creating their own masterpieces. These activities are designed to be fun, age-appropriate, and allow for imaginative exploration. Not only does this help children develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, but it also nurtures their problem-solving abilities and confidence in expressing their ideas. Whether they’re crafting a paper animal or creating a vibrant painting, our creative ASAs inspire curiosity, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment.
Dress to Impress: Encouraging School Uniforms
This month, we held our third "Dress to Impress" week, where students who wore their full school uniform every day had the chance to win a book in our prize draw. We are working towards all students from Kindergarten and up wearing their uniforms daily and appreciate your support in reinforcing this routine at home.
Foundation Excursion
our Foundation students visited Moori Moori Farm, and it was a fantastic experience full of learning. We explored the ingredients that make up chicken and duck food, then had the chance to make it ourselves and feed the ducks and the chickens. Along the way, we spotted an iguana, pigs, goats, and some adorable rabbits. To shield ourselves from the sun while working on the farm, we also made our own farmer hats! We wrapped up the day with a delicious lunch, making for a memorable and fun-filled experience.
Harmony Day
A special occasion that reminds us of the importance of inclusivity, respect, and cultural diversity. Our young learners dressed in vibrant shades of orange and yellow, symbolising warmth, acceptance, and unity.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, we are excited about the continued learning and growth happening in our classrooms. Thank you for your ongoing support in helping us create a positive and engaging learning environment for your children.
Primary Update
Written by Hannah Carew, Head of Primary
March was a wonderful month to celebrate the values that AISB upholds every day.
Early in the month, we recognised students for their dedication to excellence at the Junior Mathematical Mastery Challenge (JMCC) during an assembly. AISB proudly had 50 students participate, with many earning Merit certificates and several receiving Silver and Gold medals, a fantastic achievement! Congratulations to all our Primary students who entered the competition.
Shortly after, over 80 students took part in the Kangaroo Maths Challenge. We were truly impressed by their willingness to take on this challenge and put in their best efforts. We look forward to celebrating their achievements in the coming months.
On Friday, March 21st, AISB Primary students came together to celebrate Harmony Day. This special day is an opportunity to embrace cultural diversity and promote inclusivity, respect and belonging. Dressed in orange, the official colour of Harmony Day, students participated in engaging class activities that deepened their understanding of cultural diversity. It was wonderful to see so many students proudly wearing orange, reflecting the Australian celebration and AISB’s core values of community and belonging.
At the end of March, Year 4 students were thrilled to visit the Serpentarium for their Field Trip. They explored the fascinating life cycle of snakes in the Immersive Snake Exhibit, where they ventured through a giant snake model and experienced a simulated forest from a snake’s perspective. Students also discovered fascinating facts about different snake species, many of which were new to them! It was an exciting and educational day of hands-on learning.
Looking Ahead to April
As Term 2 draws to a close, students are preparing to celebrate Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year. AISB Primary will mark this special occasion on Thursday, April 10th, with our Thai Teaching Department working hard to ensure all students participate and enjoy the festivities.
After the break, we will begin Term 3 on Wednesday, April 23rd, with exciting events such as Book Week! Students will enjoy a range of activities and competitions, including writing challenges that celebrate the joy of reading and storytelling. Stay tuned for updates in the weekly newsletters, where we will reveal this year’s Book Week dress-up theme!
On April 25th, Australia observes ANZAC Day, a significant day in Australian history. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps and this day honours the brave servicemen and women who lost their lives in war. It is also a time for Australians to reflect on the values of mateship and belonging, which are deeply embedded in our national identity. AISB will commemorate this day with a special dawn service on Saturday 26th April at the Primary Soi 31 Campus commencing at 6:00 AM.
Wishing You a Wonderful Break
We wish everyone a safe and Happy Songkran break! We look forward to welcoming students back on April 23rd for an exciting term filled with performances and drama, leading up to our end-of-year productions.
To stay updated on all upcoming activities, please refer to your child’s homeroom teacher’s weekly newsletter, sent out every Friday.
Ms. Hannah Carew
Primary Principal
Bounce Back April Theme - Humour
Humour strengthens human connections and provides a sense of hope during difficult times. It helps us gain perspective, release tension and improve our overall well-being. Laughter benefits both physical and emotional health, as seen in children's hospitals where humour helps patients cope.
Key Messages for Children:
Humour helps us to stay healthy. Laughter helps our body to fight disease and illness. Humour is like exercise for our mind and our feelings.
Humour can help you to feel better. Having a laugh and finding the funny side of a situation can help you feel a little bit better when you are feeling unhappy, sad or worried, or when things are difficult.
You can use laughter and humour to help someone else feel a bit better. You can cheer someone up when they have a problem, or they are feeling sad or worried, by being funny in a kind and gentle way. Stop doing it if they don’t like it.
Humour shouldn’t be used to pretend that you don’t feel sad or worried. Even though laughter can help you feel better when you have a problem, you still need to try to solve the problem, or deal with the unhappy feeling. Laughter doesn’t make problems go away. It just helps you to cope with them a little better.
Humour shouldn’t be used to hurt someone’s feelings. It’s unkind to laugh at someone else’s problems or bad luck, or make fun of the way another person looks, thinks, speaks or acts.
Ways to Teach Children About Humour:
Share funny songs or movies and TV shows with your child. This is a great way to connect and enjoy each other’s company.
Share riddles and jokes that don’t rely on put-downs or insulting humour.
Help your child learn how to tell a riddle or joke well.
Encourage your child to make a funny card, drawing or banner to cheer up a family member or a friend who is sick or having a difficult time.
Point out to your child when they are using humour in an inappropriate way (e.g. to put down someone such as their younger brother or sister, or to trivialise something important, or to deny a problem or a feeling they are having). Discuss this with them.
AISB Values Focus: Global Outlook
Global Outlook
I have an understanding of my role as a global citizen and my responsibility to protect and improve our world
Cultural awareness - Students demonstrate cultural awareness by exhibiting respect, curiosity, and openness towards diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives, thereby fostering understanding, empathy, and inclusivity in various settings and interactions.
Responsibility -Students exhibit global responsibility by recognising the impact of their actions on a broader scale, actively contributing to positive change, and promoting sustainability and social awareness worldwide.
Curiosity - Students are actively curious and seek to learn about and understand diverse cultures, perspectives, and global issues, fostering an attitude of exploration, open-mindedness, and ongoing learning on a global scale.
Sustainability - Students practice sustainability by prioritising current global needs while safeguarding resources for future generations, demonstrating environmental awareness and ethical responsibility worldwide.
Understanding difference - Students acknowledge, respect, and value diverse perspectives, cultures, and backgrounds worldwide, promoting empathy, tolerance, and inclusivity in interactions across various cultures and contexts.
Role modelling - Students, through role modelling, demonstrate behaviours, attitudes, and values that act as examples for others to observe, learn from, and emulate, with the goal of influencing and guiding future generations towards positive traits and practices.
Secondary Update
Written by Michael Bryce, Head of Secondary
Let me begin with an enormous thank you to Mr Tom Gagnon and the 50 volunteer parents for the International Food Fair. The Fair capped off a week of International understanding. The final day was an ‘Orange’ day, the International Colour for Anti – Racism. It was an extremely successful event.
Secondary Residential Trips
The reports back from the Year camps, 7 to 9, were all very positive and the students had a great time.
Year 7's Epic Three-Day Adventure in Ratchaburi
Our Year 7 students recently embarked on an unforgettable three-day adventure in Ratchaburi province. The trip was filled with exploration, teamwork, and plenty of excitement.
Day one saw us immersing ourselves in local culture at Nasatta Cultural Park, before venturing into the fascinating Chompol Cave, and then paddling our way through scenic waters while kayaking along the Pachi River.
On day two, students challenged themselves at an adventure camp, tackling team-building activities, archery, rock climbing, abseiling, a ropes course, and an exhilarating zipline.
The final day was a true test of endurance as we hiked up the stunning nine-level waterfall, rewarded with a refreshing swim at the base.
Year 8 Residential Camp – Khao Yai 2025
Our Year 8 students embarked on an unforgettable adventure at Khao Yai, exploring the wonders of nature and taking on exciting challenges!
Students experienced a variety of activities, including: Ziplining & high ropes – Building confidence and teamwork Trekking through the national park – Exploring flora, fauna, and wildlife River kayaking – Paddling through the scenic Lamtakhong River Swimming in a natural spring & waterfall – A refreshing break in crystal-clear waters Visiting the Khao Yai Art Museum – Immersing in local creativity
Beyond the fun, this camp helped students develop resilience, leadership, and a deeper appreciation for the environment. Seeing their enthusiasm and teamwork in action was truly inspiring! A huge thank you to our staff and students for making this camp such a success.
Year 9 Camp to Rayong: Learning Beyond the Classroom! 🌿🐠
Over three incredible days, our Year 9 students explored marine biodiversity, developed resilience through outdoor challenges, and sparked creativity in hands-on experiences. From kayaking through Rayong Botanical Garden’s unique landscape to snorkeling in the vibrant waters of Koh Kham Island, every moment deepened their understanding of the world around them.
Their journey ended with a visit to the Metal Art Gallery, where they saw innovation in action—turning recycled materials into stunning sculptures. This camp wasn’t just an adventure; it was an opportunity to think critically, collaborate, and grow.
The recent 6 to 7 Transition meeting for parents went well. If you still have questions please contact me. The Year 6 students will have a full day at the high school in early June.
Screen Time
Screen time – a great deal of debate is going on around the world about how much is too much screen time. Does computer learning actually promote learning? AISB High School is moving back from computer use in classrooms. From the 2025/6 school year all subjects will be book based, especially in years 7 & 8. I have already requested the high school staff to limit computer use wherever possible. I shared a short video: the link is to a recent ARC conference - why we need to use screen time less and books more. https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Dcnqe5kRA/?mibextid=adiEgM
Parents will be interested in what was reported in the video. Of course this is the time students are sneaking onto games and other non-approved sites. We are formalising our approach now for next school year.
Model United Nations was held over the last three days. By all accounts it was a great success for our students.
Calendar dates
Swim Carnival – Morning of Friday April 10th – more information from Mr Chris
Songkran Celebration – Afternoon of April 10th.
Science Transition Lessons -TBA
EXAMS: The final exams for years 7 to 9 will be between May 19th to May 30th, 2025.
Early June – Year 6 Transition Day the SAME day is the Year 7 Fieldtrip to Beat Active, just waiting on booking confirmation. Information soon.
Mr Michael Bryce
High School Principal
STEAM
Mr. Gareth Openshaw, Head of STEAM and Assistant Head of Primary
As we approach the end of Term 2, the AISB STEAM department is becoming busier and busier. Preparations for our Innovation Centre Showcase week are well under way, and the team is excited to welcome parents to our primary workshops and tours. Please check the weekly newsletters from your child’s homeroom teacher for details on how to sign up.
In the classroom, we have had lots of exciting projects this month. In Art and Design, students have been working on their sculpting by making props for their upcoming shows. In Media Arts students have been making podcasts, news reports and documentaries. In Design Technologies, our younger students have been honing their fundamental design skills and tool usage, alongside completing paper roller-coasters. And in Digital Technologies the students have been coding their own video games, coding their own music, and have been getting to grips with artificial intelligence, investigating how machine learning can be used to train their own AI models.
Sports and PE
Mr. Chris White – AISB PE Coordinator
Brighton Swim Meet Primary and Secondary
The Brighton College Swim Festival, held on March 8th and 9th, was a tremendous success for AISB. Competing against 27 schools and private swim academies, both the Primary and Secondary teams secured an impressive 6th-place finish. The event showcased outstanding performances, including many personal bests, remarkable victories in freestyle and medley relay events, as well as individual first-place finishes."Special mention to Boys U15 relay who won gold in both the 200m medley and 200 freestyle, Jimin An who won Silver in 50m Backstroke and Butterfly.
Secondary
AISB is pleased to inform parents that our Secondary students are currently participating in swimming tryouts/time trials for our upcoming AISB School Swim Carnival, which is scheduled to take place on the morning of the 10th of April - last day of term 2. These tryouts/time trials occur in swim class time and are an important step in ensuring that students are placed in appropriate events that match their abilities and confidence.
At AISB we encourage all students to do their best and support one another throughout this process. Participation in the April swim carnival is a great opportunity to showcase your child’s skills, build confidence, and engage in healthy competition.
Creative and Performing Arts
SAVE THE DATE: CAPA Festival, 14 May
We are thrilled to announce our first-ever Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) Festival on 14 May, a special event that celebrates the remarkable talents of our students in the Creative and Performing Arts. The festival will showcase the creative work of students from Year 7 to 12, offering an exciting evening of artistic expression and performance.
The event kicks off at 3.45pm with an Art Exhibition, where visitors can view stunning pieces created by our talented student artists and designers. The exhibition will run until 4.30pm, giving guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in a wide range of visual art forms. Following this, the evening will feature a dynamic program of Music, Drama, and Dance performances, all student-led and facilitated by our dedicated specialist teachers. These performances are a true testament to the creativity, confidence, and unity that our CAPA students bring to the stage.
The CAPA Festival is more than just a showcase—it is a celebration of the incredible work our students have put into developing their artistic skills, both in lessons and after-school activities. We invite you to join us in celebrating the artistic journey of our students and to experience firsthand the vibrant energy and passion they bring to the creative arts.
As the renowned artist Pablo Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” This festival is a reminder that creativity knows no bounds, and we are proud to offer a platform for our students to shine.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening of creativity and expression—mark your calendars for 14 May and be part of the celebration!
More details to follow, including how to secure a ticket please follow this link: RESERVE YOUR TICKETS.
Exciting Opportunity: International Drama Competition – SPEAK UP!
We are delighted to announce that our students have the opportunity to take part in the International Drama Competition: SPEAK UP!, a global event with 100 schools participating worldwide. This free-to-enter competition encourages students to develop their creativity, confidence, and performance skills through original monologues or duologues. The school-based finals will be held on 23 April, with selected finalists invited to perform at the CAPA Festival on 14 May. The competition culminates in an international final, with virtual submissions due by 1 July (attendance is not required).
To support students in their preparation, weekly rehearsals are currently taking place every Thursday lunchtime in the Drama Studio. Participants are working on original, devised pieces centered on a well-developed character, exploring the theme ‘Speak Up!’. We look forward to seeing their creativity shine on stage!
If you have any questions regarding the event, please contact our Secondary Drama Teacher, Miss Jane(j.ferguson@australianisb.ac.th).
IGCSE Drama ‘Open House’ Performance Afternoon
On 19 March, the Drama department hosted the highly anticipated IGCSE Drama ‘Open House’ Performance Afternoon, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our Year 9 and 10 Drama students. Parents and teachers were invited to attend, enjoying an afternoon filled with creativity, originality, and engaging theatrical performances.
As part of the IGCSE Drama course, students are required to prepare a group scripted performance, a group devised performance, and a monologue. This event provided an opportunity for them to present their work in a supportive and appreciative environment.
The performances reflected the students’ hard work, commitment, and growing understanding of theatrical techniques. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to share their progress and passion for Drama with the school community. Congratulations to all the students for their outstanding performances, and a special thank you to the Drama teachers and staff who supported them throughout the process!
Ms. Jane Ferguson
Secondary Drama Teacher
Year 9 Maria Homeroom Teacher
From Stroke Survivor to University Scholar:
Taiga Makino's Remarkable Journey
Written by Mr. Greg Cairnduff
A story of extraordinary resilience and determination
When Year 12 graduate (2024) Taiga Makino began his Bachelor of Information Technology degree at La Trobe University on March 3rd, 2025, it marked the culmination of a remarkable journey defined by perseverance and courage.
Overcoming Unprecedented Challenges
Taiga's path took an unexpected turn in Year 8 when he suffered a hemiplegic stroke—a serious medical condition rarely seen in adolescents. After months of hospitalization followed by a full year of intensive rehabilitation therapies at home, Taiga demonstrated extraordinary determination by returning to school.
AISB welcomed him midway through Year 9, where he continued to rebuild his academic foundation despite the significant time lost to recovery.
Finding a New Path Forward
Though Taiga successfully completed Year 12 in June 2024, the time devoted to his recovery had impacted his university entrance qualifications. Undeterred, he enrolled in La Trobe College's university foundation program in Melbourne—a pathway designed for students who need alternative routes to higher education.
Achieving Excellence
During his eight months at La Trobe College, Taiga's academic performance was exceptional. His outstanding results earned him a High Achievers Scholarship and secured his admission to the Bachelor of Information Technology degree program at La Trobe University.
A Partnership for the Future
La Trobe College and La Trobe University's cooperative agreement with AISB means that within the next two to three years, our school will offer their Foundation and Diploma courses right here in Bangkok—creating pathways similar to the one Taiga has successfully navigated.
Celebrating Perseverance
Taiga's journey from stroke survivor to university scholar stands as a powerful example of the human spirit's capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. His story reminds us all that with determination, support, and resilience, extraordinary achievements are possible even in the face of life's greatest challenges.
The AISB community congratulates Taiga on this remarkable achievement and wishes him continued success as he embarks on this exciting new chapter!
Upcoming Events - April 2025
AISB School Calendar 2025/26 Now Available
Our AISB School Calendar for the 2025/26 school year is now available on our website. Stay informed about important dates, school events, and holidays.
Make sure to bookmark it for easy access throughout the year!
That's all for this month!
We hope you enjoyed this month's newsletter. If you have any feedback or news you'd like to share for our next newsletter, please send us an email at enquiries@australianisb.ac.th.
