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- Year 4 Residential Camp to NakhonNayok
Our Year 4 students recently travelled to Nakhon Nayok for a two-day residential camp, an immersive learning experience designed to build curiosity, personal responsibility and a stronger connection to community and environment. This camp extended classroom learning into real-world contexts, supporting students to apply critical and creative thinking, collaborate with purpose, and explore sustainability in meaningful ways. Day 1: Curiosity in Action At Farm de Lek, students engaged in hands-on sustainability learning, caring for animals, planting with intention, transforming recyclable materials into art, and producing herbal compress balls. These experiences strengthened their understanding of ecological responsibility, ethical decision-making and resourceful problem-solving. At Khun Dan Prakarn Chon Dam, learning shifted towards geography, human impact and design thinking, prompting rich discussions on how people, infrastructure and natural environments interact and coexist sustainably. Day 2: Thinkers Today, Stewards Tomorrow At the Rama IX Nature and History Museum, students applied inquiry processes to investigate ecosystems, environmental change and cause-and-effect relationships. They asked questions, interpreted information and analysed solutions, demonstrating growing confidence in research, reasoning and evidence-based thinking. Throughout the camp, students showed teamwork, initiative and adaptability. They practised self-management, communicated ideas with clarity, and demonstrated care for others and the environment. These moments reflected learning that moves beyond knowledge into action, understanding and contribution. We are immensely proud of the curiosity, maturity and integrity our Year 4 students displayed. Experiences such as these shape learners who not only understand the world, but feel empowered to care for it. A meaningful journey of exploration, growth and purpose.
- AISB Receives CIS Accreditation
The Australian International School Bangkok is proud to share that we have been officially accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS). This recognition affirms the school’s ongoing commitment to quality learning, student wellbeing, and the development of responsible, engaged, and globally minded young people. The CIS accreditation process offered a meaningful opportunity for reflection and growth. Through a thorough self-study and external evaluation, every aspect of school life was reviewed, from teaching and learning to leadership, governance, and community engagement. The evaluation team commended AISB for the strength of its relationships, the professionalism of its staff, and the positive, inclusive culture that defines its community. This achievement is the result of genuine collaboration. Teachers and staff demonstrated dedication and care throughout the process, students contributed their voices with honesty and insight, and parents offered thoughtful support and perspective. Together, these efforts reflect the shared values that underpin everything AISB stands for. Accreditation marks not an end, but a continuation of the school’s journey toward improvement and excellence. The recommendations from the CIS team will guide ongoing development as AISB continues to refine its practices and strengthen its commitment to high-quality international education. With gratitude to everyone who contributed to this milestone, this moment stands as a celebration of community, purpose, and shared belief in the power of education to shape confident, compassionate learners who can thrive in a complex and connected world.
- Year 5 Residential Camp to Phetchaburi Province
Our Year 5 students took part in a three-day residential learning experience in Phetchaburi province designed to build independence, teamwork, and environmental awareness. The camp was held at Leaves Valley Resort, a peaceful location that provided the perfect setting for outdoor education and personal growth. Day 1: Collaboration and Community Building The first day focused on strengthening relationships and fostering a sense of community. Through a series of team-building and problem-solving challenges, students developed their personal and social capabilities by working collaboratively, communicating effectively, and demonstrating leadership. These activities encouraged resilience, empathy, and cooperation, which are key skills for lifelong learning. The day concluded with a guided exploration of the resort’s natural environment, promoting curiosity and appreciation for the world around them. Day 2: Sustainability and Environmental Understanding The second day emphasised ethical understanding and sustainability education through a visit to the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT). Students observed the care and rehabilitation of rescued animals and discussed the importance of wildlife conservation and responsible tourism. This experience supported their understanding of human impact on ecosystems and the shared responsibility of protecting our planet. In the afternoon, students participated in river rafting on the Phetchaburi River, an activity that combined physical challenge with teamwork and safety awareness. The day ended with a reflective campfire gathering where students shared insights and highlights from their learning. Day 3: Outdoor Learning and Resilience The final day centred on outdoor survival skills, giving students hands-on experience in problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork in a natural setting. These activities encouraged independence and confidence, supporting personal growth, resilience, and self-management in meaningful and memorable ways. The Year 5 Residential Camp provided students with valuable opportunities to extend their classroom learning into authentic, real-world contexts. Each experience was designed to support the development of the whole child, fostering growth in both personal and social capability. By engaging in team challenges, environmental exploration, and outdoor learning, students strengthened their resilience, leadership, and decision-making skills. The camp also deepened students’ understanding of sustainability and ethical citizenship, reinforcing respect and care for the natural world. Ultimately, the experience empowered students to connect learning with life, helping them become more independent, reflective, and confident learners who demonstrate curiosity, compassion, and courage in everything they do.
- STEAM Update
Written by Gareth Openshaw AISB made a spectacular debut this month, competing in our first-ever robotics competition! The intense ‘Keep on Track’ event, hosted by St Andrews 107, pitted us against 60 top teams from Thailand, Hong Kong, and India across four challenging categories: line tracking, obstacle avoidance, maze navigation, and a thrilling forklift challenge. Our dedicated team of four Year 8 students - Alis, Yukta (Alexandra), Dhwani, and Karina (Kelly) - worked tirelessly for several weeks to build and code their robot, affectionately known as George, in preparation for the big day. On competition day, the girls worked excellently together to problem solve, evaluate, and improve the robot and its programming and did an amazing job representing the school. Their focused perseverance paid off: out of 60 teams, they finished in the Top 10 overall , and absolutely dominated their heat in the exciting forklift challenge! Congratulations to the team - your outstanding performance was a true reflection of Personal Best, showcasing creative thinking, resilience, and true collaborative spirit throughout the event. Robotics Competition: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Emd3tp9tH/
- Year 6 Residential Camp to Nakhon Nayok Province
Our Year 6 students embarked on an enriching and adventurous three-day residential camp to Nakhon Nayok province. A total of 44 students participated in the trip, staying at the comfortable Phumontra Resort. Day 1 – Team Building and Outdoor Challenges The camp began early on Monday morning, with students departing from school at 7:30 a.m. Upon arrival at Chulachomklao Military Camp, students engaged in a series of team-building activities designed to develop cooperation, communication, and leadership skills. After lunch, the group participated in a range of exciting activities including zip-lining, archery, and cycling, providing both adventure and fun. The day concluded with check-in at the resort, followed by dinner and relaxation after an energetic start to the camp. Day 2 – Nature Exploration and River Rafting The second day began with breakfast at the resort before setting off on a forest hike through the beautiful landscapes of Nakhon Nayok. Students had the opportunity to appreciate the region’s natural environment and biodiversity. In the afternoon, the excitement continued with water rafting along the Nakhon Nayok River, where teamwork and cooperation were key. The evening provided time to unwind before dinner and lights-out. Day 3 – Boating at Khun Dan Prakarn Chon Dam On the final morning, students checked out of the resort and travelled to the impressive Khun Dan Prakarn Chon Dam. Here, they enjoyed a boat trip across the reservoir, taking in the stunning scenery and learning about the dam’s importance to the local community. After lunch, the group began their journey back to Bangkok, arriving safely at school in the afternoon. The Year 6 Residential Camp was a wonderful opportunity for students to develop independence, strengthen friendships, and engage in experiential learning outside the classroom. Most importantly, it embodied our school value of Community, as students supported one another, built trust, collaborated through challenges, and created lasting memories together. This shared journey showcased the power of teamwork, kindness, and belonging, reminding us that, when we uplift one another, we all grow stronger. We are proud of our Year 6 students for the courage, camaraderie, and spirit they showed throughout the camp.
- Monthly Newsletter - October 2025
Quick Links Our Director's Update Early Years Update Primary Update Secondary Update Global Citizenship Teaching and Learning STEAM Celebrating Success Our Director's Update Dear Parents and Friends, As we progress through another purposeful term, I am inspired by the commitment, curiosity, and compassion evident across our school. October has been rich in learning, connection, and achievement — thanks to the collective effort of our students, families, and staff. From our youngest learners at Soi 20 building resilience and emotional awareness, to our Primary students embracing leadership and courage, and our Secondary students preparing for assessments and engaging in meaningful initiatives, our values are truly coming to life. This term, we celebrated milestones beyond the classroom — World Teachers’ Day, student-led leadership, sustainability projects, community outreach, sporting achievements, and our first international robotics competition in STEAM, highlighting innovation, collaboration, and perseverance. Attendance remains a shared focus, supporting each child’s growth and sense of belonging. Thank you to our entire community for nurturing confident, thoughtful, and globally-minded learners. As we head into November with concerts, conferences, projects, and field trips, let us continue to champion curiosity, kindness, and resilience. Together, we are shaping learners who are prepared for challenges and empowered to lead with heart. Yours in education, Henri Bemelmans Director Early Years Update Written by Sheridan Musto, Head of Early Years and Soi 20 Campus As we move into the second half of the term, our Soi 20 Early Years community continues to shine with creativity, teamwork, and care. Across classrooms, outdoor spaces, and events, children are building resilience, showing kindness, and embracing our AISB values in meaningful ways. Thank you to all teachers, assistants, and staff for your ongoing commitment to creating engaging, supportive environments where our youngest learners truly thrive. Spirit of AISB Values Challenge: Respect This month, our Foundation and Year 1 students participated in the second Spirit of AISB Values Challenge , joined by our Blue Wren friends from the 313 Campus. The focus was on Respect — for ourselves, for others, and for our environment. Students collaborated through games that reminded us how respect is expressed through listening, kindness, and teamwork. It was wonderful to see enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and connection between our Soi 20 and Soi 31 campuses. World Teachers’ Day We celebrated World Teachers’ Day with a special afternoon tea and pizza party to show our appreciation for the incredible dedication of our Early Years and Lower Primary staff. While one day can’t capture the full extent of our gratitude, it was a lovely reminder that every day, our teachers make an extraordinary difference through their patience, creativity, and care. Sustainability in Action: Paper-Free Progress Our recent Paper-Free Day was a great success! Classrooms explored digital tools and creative alternatives to traditional worksheets. We’re also expanding our sustainability practices: Introducing plastic recycling bins around campus. Increasing the number of paper recycling bins, 1 for every classroom. Coordinating with our Secondary Campus to ensure recyclable materials are properly processed — not mixed with mainstream waste. Encouraging the use of recycled materials in creative classroom projects. These small, consistent actions are helping children understand the impact of their choices and build sustainable habits from the earliest years. Kimochis in Foundation Our Foundation classes have begun implementing the Kimochis program, an exciting step in strengthening our social–emotional learning focus. Kimochis helps children identify, name, and manage their emotions, providing a natural bridge from our PreK2 program into the early primary years. It also connects beautifully with BounceBack and our Restorative Justice approach to behaviour guidance — supporting children to express their feelings, repair relationships, and make positive choices. Teachers are working closely with Ms Shelby, our Kimochis Coordinator, to embed the program through stories, puppets, and daily routines. Fire Evacuation Drill This month we held our first fire evacuation drill of the year, and both children and staff responded exceptionally well. These exercises are an important part of our safety education , helping children practise calm, quick, and coordinated action during emergencies. Teachers have also been reinforcing these lessons in class, connecting them to home safety discussions. Later in the year, we’ll conduct lockdown and earthquake drills to continue building awareness and confidence across all year levels. As we look toward November, our focus turns to preparation for the Mid-Year Concert , ongoing wellbeing initiatives, and our continued sustainability goals. Thank you to everyone for the teamwork, creativity, and positivity that make Soi 20 such a vibrant learning community. Together, we’re helping children grow as confident, curious, and caring learners — ready to take on new challenges with joy and resilience. We are deeply proud of our students and thankful for the strong partnership we share with you—together, we’re building a joyful, safe, and purposeful start to school life. Primary Update Written by Hannah Carew, Head of Primary October Highlights at AISB During October AISB Primary have enjoyed a wide range of engaging learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Students are now well settled into their daily routines and continuing to make great progress along their learning journey with their peers and friends. Alongside their academic growth, students have also been developing important social and emotional learning skills through class discussions, collaborative activities, and the Bounce Back program. These experiences help students build resilience, show empathy, strengthen friendships, and develop a positive mindset, essential skills that support both their wellbeing and success as lifelong learners. Earlier this month, we celebrated World Teachers’ Day, taking the time to recognise the wonderful work of our teachers and teaching assistants who ensure every child is engaged, supported, and enjoying their time at school. We sincerely thank them for their ongoing commitment to AISB students and the many opportunities they provide for learning and growth. Teachers Day celebration: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/16ZD2AxhJF/ We also officially welcomed our new Primary Student Council during a formal investiture ceremony. We are excited to see the leadership, initiative, and creativity they will bring to our school community. The Student Council is already planning to extend their leadership beyond the campus by organising Bangkok Community Help Foundation charity drive, more details will be shared in the coming weeks. Student Council Investiture Ceremony: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DDWEEDzYc/ In November, Years 4, 5, and 6 will embark on their field trips: Year 4 and 6 to Nakhon Nayok and Year 5 to Phetchaburi, where they will take part in unforgettable experiences that promote teamwork, independence, and personal growth. Next term, all parents will have the opportunity to participate in Student-Led Conferences, where students will guide their parents through conversations about their learning and achievements from Semester 1. This is a wonderful chance for students to take greater ownership of their learning and celebrate their successes. We are looking forward to an exciting November filled with rich learning experiences and plenty of opportunities for students to enjoy time with their friends at school. October Bounce Back Focus: Courage This month in the Bounce Back! program, students are learning about courage , the ability to face fears and challenges without being overwhelmed by them. Fear is a natural response that helps keep us safe, but courage helps us take positive action even when we feel nervous or uncertain. Through class discussions and activities, students are exploring what it means to show everyday courage , such as trying something new, speaking up for a friend, or tackling a difficult task and how this builds confidence and resilience. Parents can support this learning by talking with their child about times they have felt scared and how they found the courage to keep going, helping children understand that bravery grows with every challenge they face. October AISB Value Focus: Personal Best This month, our community is focusing on the value of Personal Best. At AISB, Personal Best means fostering a sense of belonging and school spirit while striving for growth and excellence. We encourage students to embrace: Resilience and Perseverance – staying determined and bouncing back from challenges. Confidence – adopting a growth mindset and learning from mistakes. Passion – approaching learning with enthusiasm and dedication. Recognition and Celebration – appreciating achievements—our own and others’. Improvement and Advancement – striving for continuous progress. Goal Setting – setting challenging but achievable goals to unlock potential. Stay Connected As always, we encourage families to stay connected by checking the school calendar regularly and reading your child’s homeroom teacher’s newsletter every Friday. These updates are a great way to stay informed about the exciting learning and events happening in the classroom and across the school. Secondary Update Written by Michael Bryce, Head of Secondary Welcome back to another term. Firstly, a remind for parents of years 7 to 10 the mid-year exams commence late November. Years 7 to 9 the exams will be held in classrooms. The Year 10 Mock exams will be held in a formal Cambridge arrangement in the hall. Subject selections for Year 8 to IGCSE and Year 10 to A levels were held November 4 th . Students need to return their selection form by the end of November. If any parent wants specific information please contact the teacher/s involved. The IGCSE and A level retakes have concluded and by tall reports the students are very happy with the papers. Results will be out by Christmas. Awards assembly for this term. The School Value focus is Respect. However, the aspect of Respect staff will be looking for this term is “Kindness”. Kindness is a is an fundamental aspect of our school life. Cyber Bullying is an ongoing society issue. I am asking all parents to be aware of the potential for your child/children to be involved. They can either be a victim or part of a group where the bullying is happening. Many groups start out friendly but often can quickly go the other way. Please check in with your child. It is ok to take and check their phones and computer as a way of monitoring their safety. An update from the Student Council in regards to events taking place. The student council have announced changes to their events schedule, out of respect to the Passing of the Queen Mother, Queen Sirikit. The Halloween Dance has been postponed for now. A new date has been finalised and it will take place on Thursday the 18th of November. In the meantime, we are still collecting donations for cancer research—please make any contributions if you would like before the 6th of November. Learners who donate will be able to take part in a dress-up day on the 7th of November and will receive a cancer ribbon badge. We are also excited to share that preparations for our annual Christmas Box Drive are underway. An email was sent out this morning, and this year we’ll be collaborating with the Primary Student Council on this meaningful initiative. STEAM Update Written by Gareth Openshaw AISB made a spectacular debut this month, competing in our first-ever robotics competition! The intense ‘Keep on Track’ event, hosted by St Andrews 107, pitted us against 60 top teams from Thailand, Hong Kong, and India across four challenging categories: line tracking, obstacle avoidance, maze navigation, and a thrilling forklift challenge. Our dedicated team of four Year 8 students - Alis, Yukta (Alexandra), Dhwani, and Karina (Kelly) - worked tirelessly for several weeks to build and code their robot, affectionately known as George, in preparation for the big day. On competition day, the girls worked excellently together to problem solve, evaluate, and improve the robot and its programming and did an amazing job representing the school. Their focused perseverance paid off: out of 60 teams, they finished in the Top 10 overall , and absolutely dominated their heat in the exciting forklift challenge! Congratulations to the team - your outstanding performance was a true reflection of Personal Best, showcasing creative thinking, resilience, and true collaborative spirit throughout the event. Robotics Competition: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Emd3tp9tH/ Cambridge Global Perspectives at AISB: Nurturing Future Global Citizens At AISB, we are proud to offer Cambridge Global Perspectives within our Secondary School as part of the Cambridge International curriculum pathway. This innovative programme is designed to prepare students to think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate confidently in a rapidly changing world. Cambridge Global Perspectives is not a traditional subject, but a transformational framework that challenges learners to explore global issues - such as climate change, migration, and sustainability - through multiple lenses: personal, local, national, and global. It develops essential transferable skills including research, reflection, analysis, communication, and teamwork. Teaching follows the Critical Path methodology, which guides students through a structured process of deconstruction, reconstruction, reflection, and communication. Students begin by analysing global topics, questioning perspectives and evaluating evidence, before collaborating on projects that apply learning to real-world contexts. This process nurtures independence, empathy, and intellectual curiosity - qualities essential for lifelong learning and leadership. Aligned with AISB’s vision to nurture the young leaders of the future the programme supports our school value of Global Outlook and our students understanding their role as a global citizen who has the responsibility to protect and improve our world. Through inquiry and collaboration, students learn not only to debate ideas but to take informed action, developing both academic rigour and moral purpose. As our learners progress through Global Perspectives, they build the analytical and reflective skills that universities and employers value worldwide, and more importantly, they gain the confidence and compassion to make a meaningful difference in their communities and our shared planet. Mr Mark Pearce Deputy Head of Primary & Head of Teaching and Learning Teaching and Learning Update The Crucial Role of School Attendance: Maximising Your Child's Potential Consistent school attendance is essential for your child’s academic, social, and emotional development. Every day in the classroom offers opportunities to engage with new ideas, build skills, and connect with peers. Research shows that teacher quality strongly influences student achievement, but the benefits are only realised when students are present (Hattie, 2009). Absences, whether due to illness, appointments, or family travel, disrupt learning continuity, leading to gaps in understanding, increased stress, and challenges in maintaining peer relationships. Even small amounts of missed school can accumulate, affecting confidence, skill acquisition, and a sense of belonging. At AISB, our dedicated teachers strive to provide enriching learning experiences, but these are most effective when students are consistently present. While unavoidable absences happen, prioritising attendance during term time is crucial. Families can support this by scheduling holidays and appointments outside school days, fostering open communication about the value of school, and collaborating with teachers to address any barriers to attendance. Regular attendance not only ensures academic success but also nurtures social, emotional, and life skills essential for future growth. By valuing each school day, we empower our children to reach their full potential, thrive in their learning environment, and enjoy the connections and opportunities that school provides. Mr Mark Pearce Deputy Head of Primary & Head of Teaching and Learning Reference List: Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL). (2019). "Attendance Matters." Retrieved from [ aitsl.edu.au ](attendance-matters.pdf). Carroll, H. (2013). "The social, emotional, and behavioural difficulties of primary school children with poor attendance records." Educational Studies , 39(2), 223–234. https://doi.org/10.1080/03055 698.2012.717508 Hancock, K. J., Shepherd, C. C. J., Lawrence, D., & Zubrick, S. R. (2013). "Student attendance and educational outcomes: Every day counts." Report for the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, Canberra. https://doi.org/10.13140/2.1.4956.6728 Hattie, J. (2009). Visible learning: A synthesis of 800+ meta-analyses on achievement. London: Routledge. Sports and ASA Maths Wizards at Soi 20 Ms Kim has been busy with the Maths Wizards at Soi 20. They have been busy having fun with numbers and shapes! They completed their Addition Garden by adding colourful ladybirds, caterpillars, snails, bees, and butterflies — even some double-digit butterflies flew in! The children practised adding single-digit numbers, took turns with glue sticks, and worked carefully and safely with scissors. They also explored 2D shapes , counting sides and corners to colour their adorable robots. They named circles, triangles, squares, and rectangles — and even spotted 2D shapes hiding on the surfaces of 3D solids! To top it all off, they played Number Bingo , with plenty of excited “BINGO!” shouts and lots of stickers! The Year 1 wizards practised place value by identifying tens and ones, while the Foundation wizards worked on recognising and ordering numbers. A magical time of maths fun and learning for all the wizards at Soi 20! Celebrating Success A huge congratulations to Nessa, from Year 2 Bettongs, on her outstanding achievement in ice hockey. Nessa recently participated in the Sub Zero Thailand Ice Hockey Tournament 2025 with the Young Ducks in the U8 group, competing against six teams in her age bracket. She was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) — an impressive recognition, especially as the youngest player on the ice, competing against older children. Her determination and skill helped her team secure third place in Division 2. Her dedication, courage, and passion exemplify the values we celebrate at AISB. We are incredibly proud of Nessa and look forward to seeing her continue to grow, lead, and inspire others both on and off the rink. 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 .
- AISB Student Council Investiture Ceremony 2025/26
AISB proudly celebrated the official Investiture Ceremony of the 2025/26 Student Council, a significant tradition that reflects the school’s core mission of empowering compassionate young leaders for life. Mr Henri opened the ceremony with a meaningful message, reflecting on how leadership within AISB is built not on authority but on service, empathy, and shared responsibility. He spoke about the Student Council as more than just a group of elected representatives, it is a platform for students to find their voice, embrace responsibility, and shape the future of their school community. The School Choir then delivered a stirring performance of Child of Tomorrow , led by Mr Tom Solon. The performance captured the spirit of hope and leadership that defined the day. The Student Council Pledge: A Promise to Lead with Compassion and Integrity Guided by the Student Council Captains and Co-Captains, the council members rose to recite their pledge — a promise to uphold the values and vision of AISB. The pledge underscored their commitment to representing their peers, leading by example, and working collaboratively to make the school a better place for everyone. The 2025/26 leadership team is proudly represented by: Secondary School Captain: Mari Wangsai Secondary School Vice Captain: Roman Shrestha Primary Co-Captain: Siah Yoo Primary Co-Captain: Thiengtrong (Ryu) Chavanakorn After reciting the pledge, each leader received their badge of office from Mr Henri and signed the pledge on stage — a powerful moment symbolising responsibility, service, and trust. Recognising the 2025/26 Student Council Members Council members from Primary and Secondary were invited to the stage to receive their badges, marking their official role as student leaders and ambassadors of the AISB community. Ms Samantha and Ms Melissa announced the names, while Mr Michael and Ms Hannah proudly presented the badges. Secondary: Madison– Year 7 Tommie – Year 7 Sankalp – Year 8 Yukta – Year 8 Abigail – Year 9 Aiyara – Year 9 Chloe – Year 10 Bailey – Year 10 Almudena – Year 11 Samridh – Year 11 Primary: Saya – Year 6 Oscar – Year 6 Sigi – Year 6 Halyn – Year 6 Ekam – Year 5 Pranthapnam – Year 5 Each member signed the pledge, officially committing to their responsibilities as student leaders — to listen, act, and lead with integrity and compassion. Voices of Leadership and Gratitude Newly appointed captains, Mari Wangsai and Siah Yoo, delivered heartfelt speeches, expressing gratitude for the trust placed in them and their shared vision of service and teamwork. Representing their councils, Roman and Thiengtrong (Ryu) thanked those who supported their leadership journey, including teachers, coordinators, and fellow students. Their words echoed the school’s belief that true leadership is not about titles but about inspiring others and making a meaningful impact. A Musical Finale and Words of Thanks To close the ceremony, Yui from Year 9 performed Summer by Jo Hisaishi, filling the auditorium with a beautiful melody that captured the pride and emotion of the occasion. Ms Hannah then expressed sincere thanks to all who made the event possible — the students for their dedication, the parents for their support, and the staff for their guidance. The Investiture Ceremony was a powerful reminder of AISB’s commitment to nurturing leadership that is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and community. These young leaders now step forward not just as representatives of their peers, but as future changemakers, ready to embody the school’s motto:
- AISB Sports Academy: Super Saturday Sports Program
Launching This November! AISB Sports Academy is pleased to introduce the Super Saturday Sports Program – a dynamic, one-month experience featuring Football, Swimming, and Basketball, led by qualified coaches in AISB’s state-of-the-art facilities. This program provides a fun, skill-building environment for young athletes across three popular sports: Football Academy Basketball Academy Swimming Academy Program Overview 🗓 When: Every Saturday in November – November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (One-month program) 📍 Where: AISB Sports Centre 👥 Who Can Join: Open to both AISB and non-AISB students 💰 Program Fee: THB 2,750 per sport AISB students receive 20% off → THB 2,200 Join the AISB Football Academy ⚽ Led by experienced, high-quality coaches, our Football Academy is designed to develop young players across four age groups. The program emphasizes core football skills, tactical understanding, teamwork, and a strong competitive spirit—all in a fun and supportive environment suitable for all skill levels. Limited spots: 20 per group Schedules: Time Age Group 8:00 – 9:00 U7 9:00 – 10:00 U9 10:00 – 11:00 U11 11:00 – 12:00 U13–U15 Sign up here Join the AISB Basketball Academy 🏀 Coached by experienced, high-quality professionals, the AISB Basketball Academy focuses on developing essential skills, teamwork, coordination, and concentration. The program is designed for players of all levels and divided into four age groups to ensure targeted coaching. Limited spots: 12 spaces available per group Schedule: Time Age Group 8:00 – 9:00 U9 9:00 – 10:00 U7 10:00 – 11:00 U13–U15 11:00 – 12:00 U11 Sign up here Join the AISB Swimming Academy 🏊 Coached by certified swimming instructors, the AISB Swim Academy offers four skill-based levels designed to develop technique, endurance, and confidence in the water. Levels & Eligibility: Level Age/Year Group Skills Required Spaces Available Beginner Foundation to Year 2 New swimmers learning freestyle and backstroke 8 Intermediate Year 3 to Year 6 Students comfortable with freestyle and backstroke 12 Advanced Primary Year 4 to Year 6 Year 4–6 students proficient in all four strokes 16 Advanced Secondary Year 7 to Year 10 Secondary students proficient in all four strokes 16 Schedule: Time Level Year Group 8:00 – 9:00 Advanced Secondary Year 7 – Year 10 9:00 – 10:00 Advanced Primary Year 4 – Year 6 10:00 – 11:00 Intermediate Year 3 – Year 6 11:00 – 12:00 Beginner Foundation – Year 2 Sign up here Important Notes Medical Insurance is required for all non-AISB participants. Limited spaces available in each session — early registration is recommended. Programs are designed to suit each child’s skill level and age for safe and effective learning. Contact & Registration Registration is only accepted through the link below . Secure your child’s spot in the AISB Super Saturday Sports Program today: https://forms.gle/DXJMJTSMwxtA3y966 If you have any questions or need more information, please contact: Mr Tiaan Head of Sport & PE 📧 tiaan.steyn@australianisb.ac.th Let your child thrive in a fun, engaging, and professionally coached environment this November at AISB Super Saturday Sports.
- Monthly Newsletter - September 2025
Quick Links Our Director's Update Early Years Update Primary Update Secondary Update Global Citizenship Teaching and Learning STEAM Celebrating Success Our Director's Update Dear Parents and Friends, It’s only the second month of the school year, but already we are seeing a wonderful rhythm of learning, connection, and growth across all our campuses. It’s clear that our students have settled well into their routines and are engaging deeply with everything school life has to offer. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting classrooms and events across all three campuses. Whether it’s the laughter of young learners in Early Years, the teamwork on display during Primary’s Spirit of AISB Values Challenge , or the creativity and ambition shown in our Secondary programs, it’s clear that our students are stepping into the year with confidence and purpose. Our Donuts for Dads mornings were a great success — a warm reminder of the strength of our AISB community and the importance of those everyday moments that build connection between home and school. I’d like to thank all the families who attended and supported these events. In Primary, the focus on values like Respect and Personal Best is coming to life through assemblies, class activities, and playground conversations. Our Child Protection learning has equipped students with important tools to keep themselves and each other safe — a critical part of our wellbeing program and school culture. In Secondary, students are already making strong academic progress. It’s been inspiring to see our learners tackle lab experiments, design hub challenges, and international competitions with such focus. Recent highlights include the impressive performance of our football squads, and standout entries in the International Drama Competition — all of which showcase the breadth of student talent at AISB. I’d also like to highlight the work happening behind the scenes — our teachers are actively engaged in professional learning and lesson refinement, ensuring that classroom experiences are purposeful, inclusive, and grounded in best practice. Across the school, our focus remains on helping every student grow — academically, socially, and emotionally. As we continue this journey together, I am deeply grateful for the strong partnership we share as a school community. The energy, curiosity, and kindness we see each day are a powerful reminder of what makes AISB such a special place. Yours in education, Henri Bemelmans Director Early Years Update Written by Sheridan Musto, Head of Early Years and Soi 20 Campus What a joyful few weeks at our Early Years campus. Our Donuts for Dads morning filled the campus with smiles as dads and special adults joined children for play and conversations. Thank you for the wonderful turnout - events like this knit our community together and create memories children talk about all week. In the same spirit of giving, we’ve donated a large portion of our older furniture and resources to a local school in the Klong Toey area and to Bangkok Community Help Foundation. We’re proud to support our neighbours while keeping useful items in circulation as part of our sustainability goals. Learning has been vibrant across the year levels. Nursery and PreK1 are experimenting with materials—paper, playdough, and fabric—discovering how to roll, stretch, tear, twist, and join, often using recycled items. PreK2 are deepening social–emotional learning through Kimochis: naming feelings, practising keys to communication, and finding safe ways to self-regulate. In Foundation, young scientists studied the parts of a plant, examined flowers up close on a nature walk, photographed their observations, and combined them into a collaborative plant collage. Year 1 mathematicians have been building number sense by counting on—using playdough models to “squish and count” from the larger number and then recording their thinking in 2-digit + 1-digit number sentences. In Year 1 writing, we read Edwina the Emu by Sheena Knowles and Rod Clement, created our own emus, and used them to inspire super sentences. Our interesting words were announce , require , and perfect ; the children practised using these words in their own sentences—both spoken and written—to build rich vocabulary. We were thrilled to host our Spirit of AISB Values Challenge on Soi 20, with our 313 Blue Wrens joining us for the morning. In house colours and hats, students rotated through energetic stations—think Tunnel Ball, Hula Hoop Toss, and Captain Ball—earning points for participation and for living our focus value of RESPECT. We loved seeing children cheer for peers, take turns, care for equipment, and celebrate effort. Thank you to the staff team who planned and ran the stations, and to families for helping children come ready to play. Alongside learning, wellbeing and safety remain front and centre. During Child Protection Week, children explored ways to keep themselves safe, practised asking for help, and identified trusted adults at school. Dress to Impress Week has refreshed our focus on the full school uniform; we’ll keep working together toward white ankle socks and solid black shoes for all students—thank you for your support. We’re also continuing our short daily wellbeing and mindfulness routines to help children settle, focus, and return to learning with calm bodies and minds. Finally, as we mark World Teachers’ Day, a heartfelt thank you to our teachers and TAs for the care, craft, and consistency they bring every day. We celebrated with a staff afternoon tea, and we are grateful to families who shared kind words and notes of appreciation. We are deeply proud of our students and thankful for the strong partnership we share with you—together, we’re building a joyful, safe, and purposeful start to school life. Primary Update Written by Hannah Carew, Head of Primary Welcome to September at AISB September has been a busy and exciting month at AISB! Our children are now happily settled into their 2025–2026 classes, building many new friendships and developing positive connections with their teachers and peers. With routines established, the energy across the school is one of curiosity, enthusiasm, and joy for learning. It has been wonderful to see students embracing new challenges, showing resilience, and already demonstrating our school values as they begin another year of growth and discovery. September brought us many events and learning to each week starting with Donuts for Dads. Where we were delighted to welcome so many happy dads to our Donuts for Dads morning at the start of September. This event coincided with Australian Father’s Day and was a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate all the special things dads bring to family life. We look forward to hosting a similar event in May for Mums, aligning with Australian Mother’s Day. Spirit of AISB Values Challenge We had a wonderful start to the year celebrating our school values through the very first Spirit of AISB Values Challenge. All primary students took part in engaging activities and games that encouraged them to think strategically, collaborate, and support one another. From balancing together on shrinking islands to working as a team to achieve shared goals, the day was filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of house points earned along the way! We look forward to next month’s Values Challenge, where students will focus on the value of Personal Best and explore how teamwork and perseverance help us reach our goals. Child Protection and Protective Behaviour Lessons During September, all primary students took part in Child Protection lessons to build awareness, resilience, and safety skills. They learned how to recognise unsafe situations, set personal boundaries, and identify trusted adults for support. We are so proud of our students for the maturity and engagement they showed in these important lessons, and for knowing how to respond and seek assistance when needed. Bounce Back Assembly This month we celebrated students who demonstrated strong effort in their learning and lived out the Bounce Back themes of Core and Social Values . A special thank you to: Year 3 Bandicoots and Year 3 Crocodiles for their poems and song about Respect . Year 6 Curlews and Currawongs for their live skit and rap performance on Respect . We are so proud of the courage and confidence shown by students who performed on stage, demonstrating both Respect and Personal Best . October AISB Value Focus: Personal Best This month, our community is focusing on the value of Personal Best. At AISB, Personal Best means fostering a sense of belonging and school spirit while striving for growth and excellence. We encourage students to embrace: Resilience and Perseverance – staying determined and bouncing back from challenges. Confidence – adopting a growth mindset and learning from mistakes. Passion – approaching learning with enthusiasm and dedication. Recognition and Celebration – appreciating achievements—our own and others’. Improvement and Advancement – striving for continuous progress. Goal Setting – setting challenging but achievable goals to unlock potential. Bounce Back Theme for October: Resilience Resilience is the ability to cope with difficulties, setbacks, or disappointments and to “bounce back.” Children will face everyday challenges, such as mistakes, friendship issues, or competition, as well as bigger life challenges. Building resilience helps them grow stronger and more independent. How parents can help build resilience at home: Display resilience reminders at home to prompt positive thinking. Encourage age-appropriate independence (packing their bag, walking to school). Talk openly about worries and brainstorm solutions together. Challenge negative self-talk with positive alternatives. Allow children to face some challenges without stepping in to solve them all. Model problem-solving by thinking aloud. Avoid “quick fixes”—help children sit with big feelings, knowing you’re there to support them. Stay Connected As always, we encourage families to stay connected by checking the school calendar regularly and reading your child’s homeroom teacher’s newsletter every Friday. These updates are a great way to stay informed about the exciting learning and events happening in the classroom and across the school. Secondary Update Written by Michael Bryce, Head of Secondary A Busy and Successful Term for the Secondary School It has been an incredibly busy and productive term in the Secondary School, with students actively participating in a wide range of academic, sporting, cultural, and leadership events. From high-stakes international competitions to vibrant school-wide initiatives, our students have demonstrated enthusiasm, resilience, and a strong commitment to excellence in everything they do. In the classroom, students have been deeply engaged with practical, hands-on learning — particularly in the sciences, where lab practicals have provided opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge through experiments and investigations. Similarly, in the Design Hub, students have taken on exciting creative and technical projects, developing prototypes, solving real-world design challenges, and showcasing innovation and teamwork. These practical experiences have been instrumental in developing both critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Student Leadership - House Report The start of the school year has been filled with energy, enthusiasm, and plenty of House spirit! We kicked things off with the Golden Ticket Assembly, where both students and teachers worked together in challenges, cheered each other on, and celebrated their House pride in front of the whole school. This was followed by our first major competition of the year, the Golden Rope Tug of War. After a series of tightly contested battles, it was Telopea who showed incredible teamwork and determination to claim the victory and the Golden Rope for 2025. We are also very proud to announce our new House Captains and Vice-Captains for the year: Acacia – Captain: Jessica | Vice-Captain: Aahana Correa – Captain: David | Vice-Captain: Zoe Eucalyptus – Captain: Kaushik | Vice-Captain: Anderson Grevillea – Captain: Aiden | Vice-Captain: Ryleigh Telopea – Captain: Prisha | Vice-Captain: Momona Wollemi – Captain: Chommanaad (Paint) | Vice-Captain: Kazuki Our new captains will not only lead their Houses in upcoming sporting events such as the Swimming Carnival and Athletics Day, but also play an important role in wellbeing, encouraging new friendships, strengthening our sense of belonging, and inspiring everyone to always do their best. Meanwhile, students across all year levels have already been busy earning valuable House points through their effort in class, participation in special teacher projects, and contributions on the sporting field. Every point counts, and it’s been wonderful to see students and teachers working side by side to make the House system such a vibrant part of school life. Thanks to their success in the Golden Rope Tug of War, Telopea has taken a firm early lead in the House points tally, with all other Houses very close behind. With so much still to come this year, the competition is wide open and the excitement is just beginning. Mr. Peter House Master Mr. Max Assistant House Master Academic Progress Students continue to engage in their preparations for the International Biology Competition, demonstrating their commitment to academic excellence. Year 7 and 8 students have completed the PAT (Progressive Achievement Tests) in English, Mathematics, and Science. Individual reports will be sent home shortly, giving valuable insight into student progress in these core areas. Reporting and Assessments We are currently awaiting the finalisation and upload of our Term 1 report format via iSAMS. While we hope to release reports before the break, please be assured that they will be shared with parents as soon as they are available. Looking Ahead: Fundraising for a Cause Advance notice to all families: I will soon share information regarding an important upcoming fundraising event in support of breast cancer work in Thailand. This is an external event, and last year we saw some participation from our school community. We hope to see even greater involvement this year. Upcoming Events: September 25 – IGCSE and A-Level resit exams commence October 2 – Eco Fashion Show October 3 – Mathematics Competition October 10 – Awards Assembly October 17 – End of Term 1 October 28 – Students return for Term 2 We are incredibly proud of our students for their continued enthusiasm, effort, and engagement in all areas of school life. Thank you to our dedicated staff, supportive families, and wonderful students for making this term so successful. Until next time, Mr. Michael Head of Secondary School Secondary Drama: A Month of Creativity and Discovery Secondary Drama is buzzing with energy as students across all year groups immerse themselves in a wide range of exciting units and theatrical styles. Year 7 – Performer’s Toolkit & Haunted House Year 7 began the year by building a Performer’s Toolkit, focusing on voice, mime, and body language. They are now exploring a Haunted House unit, using physical theatre to bring a mysterious mansion to life. From doors that vanish in a mist to rocking horses that whisper, students are learning how to create tension and atmosphere on stage. Year 8 – Page to Stage: A Monster Calls Year 8 have been delving into A Monster Calls , experimenting with abstract physical theatre, ensemble storytelling, and emotional expression. Using movement, proxemics, vocal techniques, and pace, they are discovering how to convey complex relationships and themes of truth and grief with power and sensitivity. Year 9 – Introduction to IGCSE Drama Year 9 have stepped into the world of theatre practitioners and companies, studying Stanislavski, Brecht, Frantic Assembly, Gecko, and Artaud. After conducting independent research, students led their own practical workshops to share their findings. They are now preparing their first devised piece as a rehearsal for future coursework, exploring the theme of “home” and how it holds different meanings around the world. Year 10 – IGCSE Coursework & Three Sisters Year 10 have launched into their final IGCSE coursework, devising a Cluedo-inspired murder mystery packed with dramatic comedy. Alongside this, they’ve begun studying Anton Chekhov’s Three Sisters . To set the scene, the class celebrated with a “birthday party” inspired by the play’s opening, bringing its world vividly to life ahead of their June examination. Year 11 – A-Level Beginnings Our new A-Level students have started with Small Island by Andrea Levy, adapted by Helen Edmundson, a sweeping story of love, loss, and the complexities of migration and identity. For their scripted coursework, they have chosen The Wasp by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm, a tense psychological drama about two women confronting dark secrets from their past. From haunted mansions to psychological thrillers, Secondary Drama students are developing their skills and imaginations, ready to share their talent with audiences throughout the year. Many thanks, Ms Jane HS Drama Teacher Growing Together as Global Citizen This term, Primary staff engaged in a lively professional learning workshop centred on Global Citizenship — one of our AISB’s core values guiding principles. Through interactive activities and collaboration, teachers explored what global citizenship means for us, our students, and our wider community. At its heart, global citizenship is about interconnectedness — a sense of belonging to a shared humanity and recognising the political, economic, social, cultural, and environmental ties that link us locally, nationally, and globally. It is about nurturing humility, empathy, and curiosity, and ensuring these qualities are deeply embedded in our learners. Staff worked together to identify what is and is not global citizenship. Discussions highlighted that true global citizenship goes far beyond “food, flags and festivals” — it embraces diversity, tolerance, cooperation, and fairness, while asking learners to think critically about the world and their role in shaping a sustainable and just future. One powerful activity asked: What skills, attitudes and values do we want our students to have? What do they already bring? Why are these important? This reflective task sparked rich conversations about our values of Wellbeing, Respect, Integrity, Community, Personal Best, and Global Outlook, and how they guide us to intentionally grow these qualities in our students. A globally minded person embraces diversity, seeks to understand multiple perspectives, and is willing to act for positive change. But this raises the question for us all: How do we know a student is becoming a global citizen? At AISB, we believe the answer lies in the everyday choices our students make — showing empathy, respecting differences, collaborating across cultures, and engaging with real-world issues. By embedding global citizenship across our curriculum and school culture, we are equipping our young people not only for academic success, but for their future roles as responsible, compassionate citizens of the world. Mr Mark Pearce Deputy Head of Primary & Head of Teaching and Learning Teaching and Learning Update There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a young person enjoying their learning experience. The smiles that came with overcoming challenges, the growing confidence as milestones are reached and new skills acquired, and the connections that students make with their classmates and teachers - all of this, and so much more, makes every day at AISB rewarding. Guided Reading and Explicit Instruction This month, a key focus in Primary has been Guided Reading and the continued development of explicit teacher instruction. In early primary student learning is scaffolded through the use of decodable texts to build strong foundations in phonics and early reading, before progressing onto more comprehension-based activities. These activities support the development of literal, inferential, and evaluative skills, while also strengthening vocabulary, fluency, and overall reading confidence. Teachers are intentionally scaffolding these stages to ensure every learner has the tools to become an independent, reflective, and enthusiastic reader. Professional Review Cycle Across the school, the Professional Review cycle has been in full swing, with staff engaging in observations, reflective conversations, and targeted feedback. This process provides valuable opportunities to share best practice and strengthen teacher proficiency, ensuring that instructional approaches remain aligned to achieving the best possible learning outcomes for students. It has been an affirming process of professional growth and a reminder of the collective commitment to excellence in teaching and learning at AISB. Professional Learning Focus Professional learning has also been a highlight this month. In Secondary, teachers participated in workshops on the application of cognitive science strategies, particularly the use of chunking, retrieval practice, spaced practice, and interleaving to support sequencing of learning and long-term memory retention. Primary teachers focused on data-informed practice, examining how deep knowledge of our learners supports tailored instruction, differentiation, and next steps for progress. Both strands of professional learning reflect our shared commitment to research-informed teaching and continuous improvement. Celebrating Collaboration Finally, we celebrate the collaboration of our teams and the mutual support of colleagues in creating stimulating learning environments. Together, we continue to nurture and inspire, living our school mission of empowering compassionate young leaders for life. Mr. Mark PearceDeputy Head of Primary & Head of Teaching and Learning EAL This month in Teaching and Learning, we’ve been reflecting on how important it is to build strong partnerships with parents and guardians. Research — and our own experience — shows that when families are actively engaged, students thrive. Following Strategy 39 from The ELL Teacher’s Toolbox , we’ve been finding ways to make communication with parents more consistent, collaborative, and welcoming. Rather than seeing communication as one-way, we’re encouraging families to share insights about their children’s strengths, challenges, and cultural backgrounds. This helps us tailor support in the classroom and ensures that learning continues at home in meaningful ways. By creating this shared responsibility between teachers and families, we’re not just supporting language development — we’re building a stronger, more connected learning community. Mr. Timothy Dickens Head of EAL Enrichment Research into the ‘Science of Reading’ shows that children learn best through carefully structured and explicit teaching of phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. To complement our InitiaLit program in the early years, we have introduced MiniLit Sage and MacqLit small-group programs this term to provide extra support for some students in these areas. In these groups, students are actively engaged in targeted lessons that reinforce their foundational skills and build steady progress in reading and spelling. We know that not all learners progress at the same rate, and these programs enhance our ability to differentiate for a range of students’ points of need. Ms. Rebecca Hannan Enrichment Coordinator Smart Choices Online: What Our Students Are Learning Mr. Gareth Openshaw, Head of STEAM and Assistant Head of Primary This past month, our students have been focused on Digital Citizenship during their homeroom and Digital Technologies lessons. They have learned about a number of important, age-appropriate topics, including: Being respectful online: Understanding how their words and actions affect others. Protecting personal information: Keeping their private data safe. Making good choices online: Thinking before they post or share. Balancing screen time: Managing the time they spend online. Handling online risks: Knowing how to identify and respond to dangers like cyberbullying. To recognize their hard work, we are producing Digital Citizenship certificates, which will be given to students soon. We encourage you to continue these conversations at home. For more information on online safety, we recommend visiting the parent section of the Australian Government eSafety Commissioner website . It has many free resources, videos, and guides to help parents. Celebrating Success AISB football squad A huge congratulations to our AISB football squad for their fantastic performances this September! U15 team – BISAL Champions! With teamwork, determination, and passion, they empowered one another to give their personal best and proudly showcased true AISB spirit on the field. U13 team – demonstrating resilience, respect, and commitment, they gave their personal best and secured 6th place in a challenging competition. These experiences go beyond the pitch—empowering our students to grow, strive for their personal best, and develop lasting sportsmanship. Well done, Team AISB! International Drama Triumph for Our Students! Three of our talented drama students have achieved outstanding results in the International Speak Up Drama Competition, hosted by Drama Matters , a UK-based drama teacher network. At the end of last academic year, we held an in-school “Speak Up” challenge where students devised original performances on issues that matter to them. The winning pieces were then submitted to the global competition, which attracted entries from over 100 schools worldwide. Enija impressed judges with a thought-provoking monologue exploring the hidden pressures of being a so-called “popular girl.” Her piece revealed the conflict between social expectations to lead and her personal dream of auditioning for the school musical—showcasing both vulnerability and inner strength. Enija’s performance earned her a place as a Finalist in the KS3 Monologue category. Hana and Nayantara captivated audiences with their dynamic duologue about the intense pressure faced by Olympic gymnasts, highlighting the sacrifices, relentless training, and mental strain behind the glamour of elite sport. Their powerful teamwork and nuanced portrayal led them to win the KS3 Duologue category. Both performances also featured at our CAPA Festival 2025, where they inspired peers and staff alike. These accomplishments highlight not only the students’ exceptional creativity and commitment, but also the vibrant, imaginative storytelling that thrives within our Drama Department. Congratulations to Enija, Hana, and Nayantara on this remarkable achievement! Mental Math World Cup We are proud to share that several of our students recently competed in the Mental Math World Cup, with very impressive results. This international online competition challenges students to solve complex math problems entirely in their heads—quickly and accurately. Three of our students ranked in the top 10 in Thailand in the Grandmaster category (ages 12 and above). Sakiho (Year 8) achieved an incredible 1st place in Thailand, and also ranked 16th worldwide in the highly competitive Zen Master category, which is open to all ages. Congratulations also go to Thanaphon Jencharoenku (Year 9), who placed 4th in Thailand, and Surkhab Singh Bajwa, who placed 9th in Thailand in the Grandmaster category. We are so proud of these students for their hard work, dedication, and impressive results! Sci-Art Competition 2025 2D Art Congratulations to Karina Ungkurapinan (Year 7 Kakadus) for placing 12th in the 2D Art Category with her piece “The Deep Blue Layers.” Karina’s delicate watercolour and drawing work explored the layers of the ocean and the marine animals that inhabit them. Full of detail and scientific insight, her artwork stood out for its beauty and educational value. A stunning blend of science and creativity—well done, Karina! 3D Group Entry Congrats to Karina, Ryleigh, and Aiyara — joint winners of the 3D Group Entry category. Their sculpture "Hibiscus Pollination" beautifully combined science and art, showcasing the flower’s structure and pollination process with creativity and precision. 3D Group Entry - Group 2 Big congrats to Sakiho Baba, Nayantara Rastogi, and Seowon Lee (Year 7) for their 3D group entry "Pastel Animal Cell" — a soft-sculpture model that wowed judges with its creativity and scientific accuracy. Their work tied for 1st place in the 3D Group category. 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 .
- Vote for Alexa: Shortlisted in International Chemistry & Art Competition
Our student Alexa, from Year 8 Freycinet, has been shortlisted for the Royal Australian Chemical Institute’s Chemistry and Art Competition — a prestigious international contest celebrating creativity and science. Her artwork is the only entry selected from Thailand, making this a standout achievement for both Alexa and our school community. Now, we need your support! Help Alexa win the People’s Choice Award by casting your vote online. Join us in voting for Alexa’s work through the People’s Choice Award. How to vote: 1. Click the link https://bit.ly/48cb32T 2. Enter Exhibition 3. Open the menu and select "List of Works" 4. Find Y. Khwairakpam, Bangkok, Thailand 5. Click on her artwork to vote
- Monthly Newsletter - August 2025
Quick Links Our Director's Update Early Years Update Primary Update Secondary Update Teaching and Learning STEAM Student Wellbeing After School Activities/Squad Tryouts Celebrating Success Our Director's Update Dear Parents and Friends, Once again, welcome to AISB for 2025-2026! Our first month of the new school year has concluded and I would like to thank each and every member of the AISB Staff for making our students - new and returning - feel welcome. We certainly hope the students have enjoyed being back at school. It has been wonderful to see our students back on campus, in class and enjoying their lessons with their teachers and classmates. It has also been heartening to see our returning students welcoming their new classmates so warmly. We also welcomed many new staff to our four campuses, and the Executive Leadership Team and I enjoyed getting to know them a little better through our induction programme, and through our staff days prior to the students return. I would particularly like to welcome Mr Mark Pearce to the AISB leadership Team as Deputy Head of Primary & Head of Teaching and Learning. Mr Mark’s leadership and extensive experience both internationally and in Australia, will be a great asset to AISB. As you are probably aware, we opened a new Foundation Class at 313 Soi 31 – which we have named Amaroo (Aboriginal for “Beautiful Place”). Extensive renovations of this campus were completed over the Summer break and it is now looking wonderful and equal in standard to the facilities elsewhere at AISB. We continue to make improvements on all our campuses, with shade sails planned as a major upgrade for play areas at the Amaroo site in the coming weeks. It was great to see so many parents at the various meet the teacher sessions held over the past few weeks in Early Years, Primary and Secondary Schools, as well as meeting all the Dads who joined us for our Donuts for Dads gatherings on each campus, celebrating Father’s Day (Australia). The parent committee will also continue the tradition of Flat White Fridays – sometimes on campus, and sometimes outside – and we look forward to meeting you all at such events. The year ahead will prove to be another busy one, with many events planned to support a rich school life for our students, allowing for opportunities to create “unforgettable experiences”. We will be re-releasing the Parent Portal in the next week or two, and believe this will provide a much improved interface for parent communication. The Parent Portal is a part of our iSAMS Student Management System, and we hope parents will take advantage of this new functionality. More information will be released in the next week or so by our iSAMS team lead by Ms Lovely, and access will also be available via the AISB website. One very important milestone for AISB as a school, is the upcoming Council of International Schools Team Accreditation Visit which will take place between the 20 th September and 26 th September. A team of seven CIS representatives, trained in accreditation by CIS, will meet with staff, students, administration, board and parent representatives throughout the week, as they assess our school against a comprehensive list of standards. Two months ago, we submitted a comprehensive self-study report compiled by our staff over the past 18 months, which assessed AISB against these standards and supported by hundreds of documents provided in evidence. The team will have carefully studied this report and will be looking to triangulate what was submitted, against what they hear in the scheduled meetings as well as what they see on the ground as they visit all classes. The team members are all volunteers and experienced educators, actively engaged in other CIS member schools. We are certainly appreciative of the time they are giving to this visit and look forward to welcoming them to AISB from Sunday 21 st September. Finally, and to end on a positive note, I would like to congratulate all our IGCSE, AS and A-level students of School Year 2024-25 who achieved some excellent results in the recently released Cambridge Exam results. What is particularly heartening, is the strong performance by students who have been at AISB for two or more years; their results in general, were particularly strong. Congratulations to all students who achieved their target grades. We will be releasing a more detailed statement on Cambridge results in the coming weeks – stay tuned. Wishing you a successful school year ahead. Yours in education, Henri Bemelmans Director Early Years Update Written by Sheridan Musto, Head of Early Years and Soi 20 Campus The first few weeks of school have been a joyful and positive start, with children settling beautifully into their new classrooms and routines. A special welcome to all our new families and staff! It’s been wonderful to see relationships forming, a strong sense of belonging emerging, and classrooms filled with happy, engaged learners. Our new teachers and support staff have made an incredible start, bringing fresh ideas and energy while ensuring a smooth transition for the children. Settling In and Building Belonging In these early weeks, we focus on helping children feel safe, secure, and connected. Teachers have been nurturing friendships, supporting children to learn routines, and creating classroom communities where everyone feels they belong. Happy children who feel connected and confident is always our top priority. Kindness Week During Kindness Week, our Early Years children explored how even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. We collected clothing donations for the Bangkok Community Help Foundation, with our Year 1 students proudly handing these over to Mr Greg from the foundation. We also had a colourful dress-up day, where children wore their favourite colours to school as we celebrated “colouring the world with kindness.” Meet the Teacher Week We also held Meet the Teacher week, where families had the chance to visit classrooms, see where their children learn and play, learn about the curriculum, and meet their child’s teacher. It was a wonderful way to strengthen our home–school connection and start the year in partnership with you. Looking Ahead – Campus Goals for the Year This year, we are working on some exciting goals across our early years campus: Sustainability Initiatives: Becoming more mindful of waste and paper usage, and working towards practical sustainability habits within classrooms and across our schools. Sun Safety: Continuing to strengthen our Sun Safe program, ensuring all children and staff wear hats outdoors and develop positive sun-safe habits Community Wellbeing: Embedding mindfulness and wellbeing practices into daily routines, helping children develop the tools for focus, emotional regulation, and resilience. Thai Language and Culture: This year we have also introduced Thai language and culture learning into our Nursery and PreK1 classrooms. Children are enjoying learning through singing, dancing, storytelling, and simple activities that help them connect with the local culture and language. Start-of-School Reminders Establishing consistent routines helps children feel secure and ready to learn. A few reminders as we settle into the term: Arriving on Time: For Foundation and Year 1 students, arriving before the start of class ensures they don’t miss valuable morning routines and key learning time. Early Years Settling: For our youngest learners, arriving on time allows children space to settle calmly into the day, connect with their teachers, and start their day with confidence. Healthy Routines: Plenty of sleep, nutritious meals, and time for unstructured play all support your child’s success at school. We are excited for all that lies ahead this year and grateful for your ongoing partnership. Thank you for trusting us with your children! We are looking forward to a year of growth, learning, and happy memories together. Primary Update Written by Hannah Carew, Head of Primary Welcome Back to AISB We would like to warmly welcome all our returning families back to AISB and extend a very special welcome to the new families joining our school community this year. It has been a busy and positive start to the term on our Primary Campus at Soi 31, and we are especially excited to celebrate the opening of our new 313 Campus with its very first Foundation class. We can’t wait to see this new campus grow, flourish, and become an important part of AISB. It was also wonderful to meet so many families during Meet the Teacher Week , and we hope you enjoyed the opportunity to connect with your child’s teacher and learn more about their learning for the year ahead. During the month of August, our students have been revisiting the AISB values together with the Bounce Back themes of core and social values. These strong foundations guide how we learn, play, and make decisions as a community. In the final week of August, students took part in a range of activities to demonstrate kindness and put our values into action. A highlight was the whole-school kindness chain, thoughtfully organised by Ms. Sara, our School Counsellor, along with our first Bounce Back assemblies for the year, wonderful opportunities for us to come together and celebrate what makes our school community so special. School Values At AISB, we place great importance on our core values of Respect, Integrity, Wellbeing, Global Outlook, Personal Best, and Community. These values guide everything we do and help shape our students into confident, caring, and capable individuals. AISB believes that students will develop as individuals who think critically and creatively, make decisions for themselves and act responsibly. They will consider the needs of others, develop a global outlook and care for the environment. They will learn to serve their communities in positive ways, always striving to do their best in the educational opportunities offered to them. Secondary Update Written by Michael Bryce, Head of Secondary Welcome back to everyone to the new year of school. We look forward to another successful year. The high school has grown approximately 33% from last year. It has been a relatively smooth start to the year. Parents should have received their child’s homeroom teacher welcome, as well as mine. All parents should also have received the Biography of staff as well as the Study skills book and Year Assessment book. Please advise if you have not received all of the above. The Cambridge results are ‘in’ and being analysed. The IGCSE results we, in many cases, well above predicted grades. Three students achieved all A or A* from 8 or 9 subjects. Well done to Year 10. Mental Math World Cup 2025- Thanaphon Jencharoenkul (9); Adrita Labonno Banik Lopa; Deena Alam & Surkhab Singh Bajwa (9) – all Grand Master Rank. They have reached the finals to be held soon. All High School students have now joined UNIFROG, a program designed to assist students to choose a university and career. In the younger years they build a profile about their learning and career aspirations to assist in later years. Parents can access this application through their children. AISB Secondary School Presents Its First Ever Play! AISB is thrilled to announce our very first Secondary School Play - Roald Dahl’s The Witches ! This deliciously dark and funny tale brings to life the story of a brave young boy and his grandmother who must face the terrifying Grand High Witch and her army of witches. Staging is set for February 2026, and it promises to be a highlight of the school year. Auditions were held on Friday 29 August (1.30–2.50pm) and cast announcements made on Tuesday 2 September (7.00am). All students from Year 7 to 12 were invited to audition and become part of this exciting production. To audition, students completed the online audition form with parent permission, and prepared one of the audition pieces provided in the audition pack. We are looking for confidence, creativity, and enthusiasm—whether on stage as a lead, ensemble member, or supporting role. A reminder that the audition pack was uploaded to Google Classroom. This was a wonderful opportunity for students to build confidence, develop teamwork, and showcase their talents on stage. We look forward to seeing many of our secondary students get involved in this milestone production for AISB! Many thanks, Ms Jane HS Drama Teacher After School Activities (ASA) The bell may signal the end of classes, but it also marks the start of something exciting — our after-school activities are back! This year’s programme is packed with more choices than ever before. From sports and music to academic clubs, creative arts, leadership opportunities, and community service, there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in building robots, performing on stage, debating, or simply spending time with like-minded friends, now’s the perfect chance to get involved. After-school activities aren’t just about fun (though there’s plenty of that) — they’re also a wonderful way to explore new interests, gain confidence, and build connections with others who share your passions. Squad Tryouts in full swing! Squad tryouts — from football to school choir — offer students a chance to grow in more ways than one. Beyond showing skill or talent, participants learn discipline, collaboration, and confidence. Whether moving on the field, singing on stage, or pushing through a tough routine, students discover the value of hard work, mutual support, and commitment. These experiences help students build important life skills like responsibility, communication, and time management — qualities that serve them both inside and outside of school. Big congratulations to everyone trying out — your courage and effort are what make our school community stronger! Building Global Citizen at AISB As the new school year begins, AISB reaffirms its commitment to nurturing students who are not only successful learners but also responsible global citizens. At the heart of this vision is Oxfam’s Education for Global Citizenship framework, which inspires our teaching and learning. This approach is transformative - helping students develop the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes needed to engage critically and actively with the opportunities and challenges of an interconnected world. Global Citizenship at AISB is about more than just understanding global issues - it is about empowering students to think, act, and lead with empathy, respect, and responsibility. Through exploring themes such as sustainability, diversity, human rights, peace and conflict, and global interdependence, students are encouraged to make meaningful connections between their local experiences and the wider world. They also learn that they can be active agents of change, shaping a more just and sustainable future. Our staff are equally engaged in this journey. This year, teachers are participating in professional learning committees focused on embedding global citizenship into the curriculum. By engaging with current educational research and best practice, staff are ensuring that AISB continues to provide high-quality, forward-thinking learning experiences. Students, too, are taking a lead. The Student Council, along with dedicated Global Citizenship student groups, will be working across the year to strengthen our school’s profile in this area. From awareness campaigns and collaborative projects to service-learning initiatives, students will be given authentic opportunities to put their values into action, developing leadership skills while making a difference within and beyond our school community. At AISB, Global Citizenship is not an addition to our curriculum—it is central to our mission of preparing young people to thrive in a fast-changing, interdependent world. Together, staff and students are building a culture where knowledge, compassion, and action go hand in hand. Mr. Mark Pearce Deputy Head of Primary & Head of Teaching and Learning High School Global Perspectives. In today’s world, where online information can be unreliable and artificial intelligence is reshaping how knowledge is shared, students need to be more critical than ever. In Global Perspectives, students are doing exactly that. They are learning to question what they read, to investigate issues using reliable sources, and to build their understanding on facts rather than opinions. They practise breaking down complex ideas and evaluating what people say, always watching for bias, propaganda, or fake news. Global Perspectives goes further than research alone. Students work together to explore different perspectives from around the world, challenge assumptions, and communicate their findings with clarity—whether through structured reports, persuasive arguments, or collaborative presentations. Just as importantly, they reflect on their own learning, considering how their views change as they encounter new evidence and perspectives. In doing so, they are not only becoming stronger researchers but also more thoughtful, self-aware, and engaged global citizens. Mr Dayne Teaching and Learning Update The first few weeks of the new academic year have provided an important foundation for teaching and learning across our vibrant AISB learning environments. Students have returned with energy and enthusiasm, settling quickly into the rigor and routines of learning that support both academic growth and personal development. Establishing consistent expectations in classrooms, playgrounds, sporting areas, and shared learning spaces has ensured that students are engaging positively with one another, their teachers, and the learning process. Staff have worked diligently to build strong relationships with their new classes, fostering inclusive and supportive environments where students feel both challenged and encouraged. A focus on high-quality learning experiences has been evident in every year level, with teachers modelling high expectations and students responding with commitment, curiosity, and resilience. Across subject areas, there has been a deliberate emphasis on fostering independence, collaboration, and reflective learning habits that will continue to strengthen over the term. To ensure every student is met at their point of need, teachers have been reviewing prior learning outcomes and analysing assessment data collected at the end of last year and the beginning of this year. This benchmarking process provides valuable insight into each child’s strengths and areas requiring further consolidation, enabling teachers to design targeted programs and differentiated instruction. By aligning curriculum planning with current evidence of student achievement, staff are well positioned to monitor progress and ensure that learning remains both accessible and appropriately challenging. Alongside this focus on student learning, staff have also begun their own cycle of professional learning for the year. This includes engaging with the latest educational research and best practice to ensure that teaching remains responsive, innovative, and effective. Professional learning communities and targeted development sessions provide opportunities for staff to collaborate, reflect, and refine their practice—further strengthening the quality of learning across all AISB campuses. Families have been welcomed into classrooms to Meet the Teacher events. These meetings provide opportunities for our community to further understand the Australian curriculum and the learning that will be occurring through the term. They are also an important way to build relationships and connect with our community. The opening weeks of our new year together have highlighted a collective commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. A firm foundation of partnership between students and staff has been created, and with clear routines, purposeful assessment, ongoing professional learning, and a culture of care, our school community is well placed to enjoy a successful year of growth and personal achievement for every learner. I am thrilled to be joining the AISB community and look forward to working in partnership with you all. Mr. Mark Pearce Deputy Head of Primary & Head of Teaching and Learning Enrichment The Enrichment Programme is off to a purposeful start. In Year 5, a small group of confident mathematicians have begun a STEAM project inspired by the book Mechanica , applying their mathematics skills in a creative context that promotes higher-order thinking. Across other year levels, enrichment support has focused on open-ended challenge tasks within their maths classes to deepen understanding and extend learning. Looking ahead, students in Years 2–6 are encouraged to join the upcoming Southeast Asian Mathematical Olympiad (SEAMO), providing a chance to take on new challenges and grow as problem-solvers. It’s shaping up to be a year of growth, creativity, and exciting opportunities for our young learners. Ms. Rebecca Hannan Enrichment Coordinator EAL The EAL program at AISB has had a strong start to the year, with students quickly settling into routines and engaging with targeted language support across grade levels. Our focus has been on building confidence in both academic and social English, ensuring students can access the curriculum successfully. Early highlights include collaborative work with homeroom teachers to align support strategies and the noticeable enthusiasm students are showing in their learning. We look forward to continued growth and progress as the year unfolds. Mr. Timothy Dickens Head of EAL The Future of STEAM at AISB Mr. Gareth Openshaw, Head of STEAM and Assistant Head of Primary The start of a new school year brings exciting developments for the STEAM department at AISB. Building on last year’s efforts to increase collaboration within our Innovation Centre subjects, we are expanding our cross-curricular approach to all of Primary School. Last year, we piloted a cross-curricular unit where Year 4 students began a video game design project in Media Arts by pitching a game concept, then brought their ideas to life in their Digital Technologies class. This interdisciplinary approach was highly engaging for our students and gave greater purpose to their work. To make this seamless integration possible, we have combined Media Arts and Design Technologies into one year-long subject. This change allows students to more fluidly connect design thinking with media production and product building, and enables stronger links between Visual Art, Design, and Digital Technologies. To support this new vision for the STEAM department, we are thrilled to welcome a new teacher, Mr. Matt Gilley. With his extensive experience and passion for this field, Mr. Gilley is a valuable addition who will help us fully develop our new curriculum and approach to STEAM at AISB. Celebrating Success A big congratulations to Daniel from Year 11. He represented Japan in the 9th Eastern Asia Youth Chess Championship in Zhuhai, China, competing in the U16 category. Out of three formats, he achieved an impressive 5th place in the Rapid tournament. Well done Daniel! Congratulations to Lucas from Year 7 – Grampians for taking part in the National Science & Technology Fair at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. He hosted a storytelling session at the Bosch Experience Zone, where he shared how Bosch is inspiring his dreams to one day be part of the motorsport world. Well done, Lucas! Year 9 student Bailey spent two unforgettable weeks on work experience with the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra — witnessing first-hand the artistry, teamwork, and dedication that bring world-class performances to life. From assisting behind the scenes with MCO’s talented administrative team, to attending breathtaking rehearsals and the magical Pastorale concert at Melbourne Recital Centre, Bailey immersed himself in every part of the process. Read more here: https://www.australianisb.ac.th/.../work-experience-diary ... Congratulations to PK from Y6 Wagtails for his outstanding achievements in ice hockey! His dedication, teamwork, and unwavering commitment have earned him and his team well-deserved success in two major tournaments. World Junior Ice Hockey Nagoya Cup 2025 (Japan, 11–13 July): PK helped his team achieve 1st Runner-Up (U11), showcasing focus, skill, and teamwork on an international stage. Thailand Youth Ice Hockey Championship 2025 (9–12 August): Back home, PK contributed to his team earning 2nd Runner-Up (U12), demonstrating perseverance, leadership, and sportsmanship. We are so proud of you, PK—well done on these fantastic achievements! Student Wellbeing Thank you sincerely for participating in Kindness Week and supporting this meaningful activity with your children. As a counsellor new to the school, I have greatly enjoyed visiting classrooms and getting to know your children better, witnessing their kindness and growth firsthand. I also appreciate the opportunity to meet many of you for the first time during Meet the Teacher week. I look forward to working together as we build a caring, inclusive, and supportive school community where every child can thrive. The values highlighted in the poster are part of the Bounce Back social-emotional curriculum we teach at AISB, and this month’s theme has focused on encouraging these important qualities. In the poster, you will find a summary of these core values and practical ideas for supporting them at home. Ms Sara Avedikian Counselor 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 .
- Curious Possums Playtime –13 September 2005
Our next Curious Possums Playtime is all about the wonders of space. Children will enjoy hands-on activities, creative play, and adventures inspired by planets, stars, rockets, and galaxies. 📅 Date: Saturday, 13 September ⏰ Time: 10:30 am – 12:15 pm 📍 Location: AISB Soi 20 Campus This month’s space theme brings plenty of fun and discovery: 🌌 Music & Movement – dancing like shooting stars and moving like astronauts on the moon 🎨 Arts & Crafts – creating rockets, planets, and galaxy-inspired art to spark imagination 🪐 Sensory Play – hands-on exploration of textures and colors inspired by outer space 🥪 Snacks – a cosy break to recharge, connect, and share smiles with friends Curious Possums Playtime is a special opportunity for little ones to learn and grow, while parents can enjoy seeing how play connects to meaningful early learning experiences. This fun and engaging session will be led by a certified AISB Early Years teacher, ensuring a safe, stimulating, and joyful experience for all. 👉 Please note: One caregiver per child is required, and caregivers must remain with their child throughout the session. To RSVP or for more information: 📧 Email: krystal.abo@australianisb.ac.th 📞 Call: 02-260-4575 We can’t wait to welcome you and your little possums for a morning full of rockets, stars, and space adventures! 🌙✨














