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This year’s Secondary Summer School at AISB was a powerful reminder of what students can achieve when given time, space, and support to explore, create, and connect. Across both blocks, students stepped outside their comfort zones, challenged their thinking, and embraced learning in ways that felt fresh, fun, and full of purpose. Block 1: Design in Action From the start, there was a real buzz of excitement around campus. The two-week programme was built around the theme Design in Action , encouraging students to engage with projects that asked them to think critically, design thoughtfully, and collaborate meaningfully. Tie-Dye T-Shirts We kicked things off with colour, energy, and lots of messy hands. Students explored the art of tie-dye, testing out techniques and experimenting with bold combinations. What stood out most wasn’t just the creativity, but the way they supported one another—offering tips, sharing fabric, and going back for round two with even more excitement. City Scapes In this hands-on design challenge, students imagined and built their own island communities. They considered what people need to live and thrive, mapped out resources and layouts, and brought their ideas to life through carefully crafted 3D models. Each island told a different story—shaped by the values and imagination of its creators. Renewable Energy Harvesting Sustainability was at the heart of this project. Students designed and built working models of water wheels and windmills using a mix of recycled materials and 3D-printed parts. It was inspiring to see them troubleshoot, redesign, and persist until their models worked—and even more so to hear the thoughtful conversations about clean energy and real-world applications. Computer Game Design For our tech-loving students, this was a definite highlight. Over two weeks, they built browser-based games using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Watching their ideas take shape—from character movement to visual design—was a great reminder of how much learning can happen when students are given the freedom to create something meaningful. Alien Habitats What would it take to survive on a distant planet? Students tackled that question through a mix of science and imagination. They analysed fictional soil samples, designed sustainable living systems, and built models of alien habitats that reflected both creative flair and thoughtful planning. The Amazing Race We ended Block 1 with a whole-school Amazing Race—an energetic, joyful celebration of teamwork, problem-solving, and school spirit. From sports relays to puzzles and surprise challenges, the entire event was a fantastic way to bring everyone together and end on a high note. Block 2: EAL Summer School – Confidence, Creativity, and Communication The second block took on a different—but equally important—focus: building confidence in English through meaningful use and real-world practice. What made this block so special was the courage students showed in trying new things, speaking up, and expressing themselves more fully each day. Drama and Debates We began with a focus on speaking fluency and using English in everyday situations. Through group challenges, role plays, and short debates, students learned to take turns, listen actively, and speak with greater confidence. The drama activities quickly became a highlight—full of laughter, energy, and surprise performances. Social Challenges and Games Beyond structured lessons, we made space for connection. Students joined in games and team tasks designed to build vocabulary and friendships at the same time. It was in these quieter, unscripted moments—chatting over a group task or helping each other with pronunciation—that the biggest steps forward often happened. Present Like a Pro As the programme progressed, we shifted towards more formal presentation skills. Students learned how to plan a clear speech, use persuasive language, and speak to an audience with clarity and purpose. Many surprised even themselves by how much they were able to deliver—without over-relying on notes or slides. Global and Creative Topics Each student chose a unique topic to present, from designing a dream pet to inventing a game or imagining a new country to live in. These presentations weren’t just exercises in speaking—they were windows into how much growth had taken place. They spoke with humour, heart, and increasing command of the language. Celebrating Success We ended with a celebration that honoured not just what students had accomplished, but the effort it took to get there. It was clear just how much their confidence had grown—how they now spoke with more ease, made new connections, and took pride in what they could do. To all the students who joined us this summer: you showed up with curiosity, energy, and a willingness to learn—and that made all the difference. To our families and staff: thank you for your support and for believing in what summer learning can be. We look forward to carrying this spirit of creativity, collaboration, and growth into the year ahead.

Bailey's Journal July 7 – July 18, 2025 Monday 7 July – First Day at MCO Office I arrived at the MCO office at 10:00am, located at Fawkner Towers on St Kilda Road. I spent the day working with Adele Schonhardt, the Executive Director. My main task was helping Ms. Adele with preparation work for the upcoming concert on Thursday. It gave me a great introduction to how much behind-the-scenes coordination goes into each performance. I finished up around 4 pm, feeling excited to see what the rest of the week would bring. Tuesday 8 July – Rehearsal with Olivia & Meeting George I started the day at 10:00am at the Church of All Nations in Carlton for a full rehearsal day with Olivia Walker, the Artistic Operations Manager. This was my first opportunity to really see how rehearsals are run in a professional orchestra setting. It was fascinating to watch the musicians at work and see Olivia coordinating everything behind the scenes. Today, I also met the other work experience student –Truong (George) Phan, a Year 10 student from Melbourne. It was nice to have someone my age to share the experience with, and George was helpful in showing me how things operate at MCO, since he had already started the placement. Supporting the musicians with George the work experience student from Melbourne Although the rehearsal officially finished at 5:00pm, I had the option to leave earlier and wrapped up my day around 4:00pm. Rehearsal day for musicians before the concert on Thursday night Wednesday 9 July – Beautiful Rehearsal at Opera Australia Visiting the headquarters for Australia Opera in Melbourne I started today at 1:30pm at the Opera Australia Studio in Southbank for another rehearsal session with Olivia. It was a late finish, but well worth it. The rehearsal was beautiful — so many incredibly talented musicians playing a range of instruments, including a huge grand piano that filled the space with powerful sound. Everyone I met was so friendly and welcoming, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Being surrounded by such artistry in the heart of Melbourne — Australia's capital of musicals, concerts, and symphonies — made me feel deeply honored. I’m really looking forward to tomorrow’s official concert and feel proud to be part of such a significant musical event. Thursday 10 July – Concert Day at Melbourne Recital Centre A big day! I started at the MCO office with Catherine Turner, the Business Operations Manager, helping her prepare for tonight’s concert. Later, we moved to the Melbourne Recital Centre, where I assisted at the MCO desk in the foyer, taking on front-of-house duties. The highlight was attending the "Pastorale" concert (7:30 – 9:30pm) at the Melbourne Recital Centre, where a forgotten concerto made its Australian debut. It was magical to see the music I had watched being rehearsed now performed live on stage. Before the concert, my family met with Mr. Greg and Mr. Sam who hosted a lovely dinner at Maiz y Cacao, a Mexican restaurant nearby. It was special because my parents Jane and Mark, sister Madison, Mr. Greg, Mr. Sam, Praew, and Jade - AISB staff – are all there to support me. The program began with Adagio for Strings composed by Samuel Barber, a celebrated American composer of his time (1910-1981). Next, was a Concerto for Piano and Strings i. Allegro assai ii. Lento iii. Moderato e deciso ma con moto by English composer Doreen Carwithen (1922-2003). After the interval the program continued with the Pastorale (from String Quartet No. 4) composed by Australian composer, Peter Sculthorpe (1929-2014). To end the concert, it was a Serenade for Strings in C major Op 48 i. Pezzo in forma di sonatina. Andante non troppo – Allegro moderato ii. Valse. Moderato. Tempo di Vaise. iii. Elegia. Larghetto elegiaco. iv. Finale (Tema russo). Andante – Allegro con spirito by the world-famous Russian composer Pyotr II’yich Tchaikovsky. After the concert in the foyer of the Melbourne Recital Centre I had the honor to toast the musicians for an unforgettable night. Cherished photos with talented musicians including Ms Sophine Rowell, MCO Artisctic Director Friday 11 July – Day Off A well-earned break after a big week. No scheduled activities today – time to relax down the seaside in Torquay, Victoria, a coastal town known as the surfing and beach capital of Victoria. Today was too cold for surfing, the temperature was as low as 9°C today. Torquay is famous for Bells Beach, a world-renowned surfing destination and home to famous surf brands like Rip Curl and Quicksilver. Today, I am walking along the beach and reflecting on the first few days of my work experience. Day off at Torquay beach Monday 14 July – Office Day with Ms. Adele Back at the MCO office for another full day with Ms. Adele. I felt more confident this week andstarted to better understand the workflow and how various departments contribute to the orchestra’s success. Ms. Adele shared more about MCO’s strategic goals, funding, and community engagement, which really broadened my perspective. Tuesday 15 July – Collaboration with Olivia and Catherine Today I worked alongside both Olivia and Catherine at the office. I assisted with both artistic planning and business operations. The day was dynamic and full of learning, especially seeing how the artistic and administrative sides must collaborate closely to bring concerts to life. Wednesday 16 July – Development with Suzanne A day with Suzanne Gibson, MCO’s Development Manager. I learned about fundraising, donor engagement, and how MCO builds lasting relationships with supporters. It was fascinating to see how much work goes into ensuring the orchestra remains sustainable and connected with the community. Thursday 17 July – Final Day with the Team My final day at MCO was something I’ll never forget. I spent the day with the entire admin team, Ms. Adele, Ms. Sophie, Olivia, Suzanne, and Catherine helping with various tasks across departments and reflecting on everything I had learned. As a small gesture of appreciation for all the kindness they had shown me, I prepared a Japanese lunch for the team. It was my way of saying thank you for welcoming me so warmly and for introducing me to some of Australia’s finest musical talents. We sat together, shared stories, reflected on the past two weeks, and even talked about possible opportunities for next time I visit Melbourne. Final day lunch with the team at the MCO The team was incredibly welcoming throughout my placement, and by the end, I truly felt like I had been part of something special. This experience has deepened my appreciation for the arts – not just the magic that happens on stage, but the dedication, creativity, and teamwork that happens behind the scenes to make it all possible. I say goodbye with many memories and a special birthday card and gift from the team that I will cherish dearly. Friday 18 July – Day Off The final day of my work experience is a rest day, and it is also my birthday— and a chance to reflect on what has been a packed and inspiring two weeks. I am so lucky to celebrate my 14th birthday in the iconic Luna Park with family and friends. I want to say a special thank you to two people who made this opportunity possible. Without them, I would never have met so many inspirational and gifted people in my life. Firstly, Mr. Greg Cairnduff, education consultant and host of the School Life podcast, who many of us know from his time as Director of the Australian International School Bangkok and Mr. Sam Cairnduff, PhD, Lecturer of Arts & Cultural Management and Media & Communications at The University of Melbourne. With Mr. Greg Cairnduff and Mr. Sam Cairnduff Their support, guidance, and belief in me opened the door to this unforgettable experience with the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra. I’m sincerely grateful to you both! Looking Ahead – My Next Steps As I finish this unforgettable journey with the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra, I’ve been thinking a lot about what comes next. This experience has opened my eyes to a world of music, creativity, and teamwork — and I don’t want that to end here. In the short term, I plan to continue doing what I love: singing and acting in school plays at AISB and participating in any external productions I can find in Bangkok. I’ll also try to keep learning and practicing piano and drums, developing my skills and exploring my passion for music. More recently, I’ve started to imagine a future in arts and event management — the kind of work I saw in action during my time at MCO. Managing large-scale concerts and cultural events in major cities around the world is something I now see as an exciting and meaningful path. I believe this industry will increasingly need passionate, organized, and creative leaders to bring people together through music and performance. That’s why I plan to explore university courses in arts, event, and cultural management, and learn how those degrees can help me reach my goals. I want to be someone who helps make these incredible events happen — not just for the audiences, but also for the artists and teams behind the scenes. This experience was just the beginning — and I can’t wait to see where it leads. Bailey Wolczko Year 8 student

Quick Links Our Director's Update Early Years Update Primary Update Secondary Update Teaching and Learning STEAM Celebrating Success Our Director's Update Dear Parents and Friends, As the 2025-26 academic year draws to a close, we celebrated with various assemblies and gatherings. In both Primary and High School, we celebrated the achievements of students in their academic pursuits as well as their demonstration of the school values - Wellbeing, Respect, Integrity, Community, Personal Best and Global Outlook every day.  We also celebrated our Year 6 students’ completion of Primary School and their readiness for High School. Perhaps the most significant of the events in this final week, is the Graduation of our Year 12 students. This year AISB graduates four students and we take this opportunity to congratulate each of them on this significant milestone – the completion of their formal school education. Of course, exam results are still a couple of months away, but supported by their teachers and families, each student has mapped a pathway forward to further education. Congratulations and may the experiences you shared with the AISB community, not just academically, but through friendships and the values instilled through your time at the school, provide you with a solid foundation for your life journey moving forward.    At this time of year, we always say farewell to some students and staff. To the staff that are leaving AISB, we are grateful for your many contributions throughout your time at our school. Thank you again for all you have achieved to help our school learn and grow. Each of you have contributed in so many different ways to our community. We wish each of you and your families all the very best for the future and hope that you will keep in touch with us here at AISB. To our students that are leaving AISB, whether to new schools, new cities or new countries, we wish you and your families every success for the future.  Thank you for being part of the AISB family – we will miss you all! Finally, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your support.  To the students - for trying their best in class, keeping up with their work and supporting their classmates throughout the year. To the teachers who have guided and worked diligently with their students in order that they can achieve their personal best. To the parents, who have provided the environments and support from home that allowed their children to engage in the programmes we provided.   For now, however, I wish you a very relaxing holiday - whether you manage to escape Bangkok for a few weeks or plan to stay at home and enjoy some quiet time! For those who are travelling to home countries, I hope you have a special time with family and friends.  Take care and stay safe everyone. Enjoy your break! Yours in education, Henri Bemelmans Director Early Years Update Written by Sheridan Musto, Head of Early Years and Soi 20 Campus As the school year draws to a close, it’s a wonderful time to reflect on the incredible learning journeys and community spirit we’ve shared here at Soi 20. The past month has been filled with joyful moments, from celebrating the magic of books to embracing sustainability, showing our talents in concert, and diving deep into rich classroom explorations. It’s been inspiring to see our students, staff, and families all contributing to such a vibrant and caring environment. Book Week Celebrations   Our Book Week was a fantastic success! From dressing up as beloved story characters to bringing favourite books into the classroom, and finishing with a cosy PJ and soft toy day and picnic, we’ve ignited a passion for literacy and storytelling across all year levels. These activities have encouraged children to connect with stories and each other, strengthening their language skills and imagination in fun, meaningful ways. Sustainability Focus: Paper Free Day & More  Continuing our commitment to caring for the environment, May’s Paper Free Day challenged us to rethink our daily paper habits. Together, we’ve also been turning off unnecessary lights, computers, and air conditioning, reducing paper use, and recycling classroom materials. These small actions, taken collectively, are powerful steps toward a more sustainable future and help nurture responsible attitudes in our youngest learners. Concert Highlights: Music & Meaning  Our concert season brought smiles and applause as each year level shared their unique stories through song and performance: Nursery’s “Farmyard Fun”  brought animals and farm life alive with joyful participation. Kindergarten’s “There’s a Sunflower in My Supper”  offered a heartfelt reminder about teamwork and being brave to try something new. Foundation’s “Eddie the Penguin Saves the Day”  beautifully connected with our sustainability goals, focusing on saving water, electricity, and recycling. Year 1’s “The Bee Musical”  showed the vital role bees play in nature and community. We were thrilled to host Foundation and Year 1 concerts at the brand-new Kirribilli Hall on the Secondary Campus, an exciting new space for our students to shine! Dress to Impress Week  Students across Kindergarten, Foundation, and Year 1 have shown great pride in wearing their full school uniform. Dress to Impress Week is about celebrating school spirit and encouraging everyone to uphold the uniform policy with care and respect. Thank you to families and staff for supporting this initiative! Classroom Learning Adventures   Nursery: Our youngest learners have been immersed in a jungle-themed unit, engaging their senses through a variety of hands-on activities. From exploring different textures like leaves, bark, and soil to listening to animal sounds, children have developed their sensory awareness and language skills. Creative play with animal figures and role-playing jungle scenarios has fostered imagination, social interaction, and early problem-solving abilities. These experiences support fine motor development and encourage curiosity about the natural world. Kindergarten: Kindergarten students have been reaching for the stars with an exciting Space unit. They have been learning about planets, stars, and rockets through building models using recycled cardboard and other materials, which has encouraged creativity and environmental responsibility. This project-based learning promotes collaboration, critical thinking, and spatial awareness. Children have also practiced sequencing skills by constructing rockets step-by-step and enhanced their vocabulary with new scientific terms. Foundation: Foundation students have been exploring their local community and the many helpers who keep it running, such as firefighters, doctors, and postal workers, as part of their HASS (Humanities and Social Sciences) curriculum. Through storytelling, role-play, and community walks, they’ve developed social awareness and empathy while learning about civic responsibility. The unit has also strengthened their communication and listening skills, as they discuss how these helpers contribute to their daily lives. This learning also supports their growing sense of identity and belonging. Year 1: Year 1 students have been investigating the Gulf of Thailand, learning about its geography, environment, and cultural significance within their HASS studies. Hands-on activities such as map reading have developed their spatial reasoning and observational skills. In Maths, the concept of capacity has been explored through practical experiments with liquids, sand and containers, helping students understand measurement, volume, and estimation. These activities enhance critical thinking and problem-solving, while encouraging scientific inquiry and a deeper connection to their natural surroundings. As we close the school year, we want to thank everyone, students, families, and staff, for your enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication. The progress and joy we see every day at Soi 20 remind us why community and collaboration are at the heart of great learning. We look forward to continuing this journey together as we move next school year! Primary Update Written by Hannah Carew, Head of Primary What a year it has been! This school year has flown by and it has been an absolute pleasure watching every child grow academically and socially alongside their class friends. The positive relationships developed across all year levels have been a true highlight. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of excitement as we celebrated the talents and teamwork of our students through our End-of-Year Concerts. From Foundation’s delightful Penguins, to Year 1’s busy Bees, and the heartfelt messages of kindness and collaboration in the Year 2 and 3 performances, each show was a joy to watch. Our older students shone brightly in the spectacular Year 4, 5 and 6 performance of Beauty and the Beast . The courage and confidence shown by every student on stage made us all incredibly proud! Read more here: https://www.australianisb.ac.th/post/years-4-to-6-bring-beauty-and-the-beast-to-life As we wrapped up the school year, our Year 6 Celebration Assembly, where we recognised the first seven years of our year 6 students’ education and cheered them on as they move into High School, was a lovely celebration of their achievements. We also proudly presented the Primary Director’s Awards, celebrating the efforts and achievements of students across the school. Read here: https://www.australianisb.ac.th/post/year-6-celebration-class-of-2024-2025 I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the entire AISB community for your support and trust throughout the year. Working together to ensure that your children feel valued, safe, and respected is something we take great pride in, and we are committed to helping every student strive for their personal best. A heartfelt thank you also goes to our incredible teaching and support staff. This has been a year of significant change, particularly with the introduction of the Updated Australian Curriculum. Our staff have worked collaboratively and tirelessly to ensure that your children continue to receive the highest quality academic, social and emotional care during this transition. I wish all our families a safe, happy and relaxing summer break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Wednesday, 13th August 2025. Hannah Carew Primary Principal Secondary Update Written by Michael Bryce, Head of Secondary High school has been busy with the exam period, with the final Cambridge exam scheduled for 11th June.  The reports for Year 7 to 9 were issued on June 12th, at 3pm. We are looking at expanding the report regime next school year. This will involve a progress report in terms one and three as well as the usual half and full year academic reports. Designs are being considered at the moment. The traditional End of Year Sports Day  was held on 13 June, bringing energy and enthusiasm across year levels as students participated in a range of fun, active competitions. Later that afternoon, we held the Year 12 Graduation Ceremony  — a heartfelt celebration of our graduating class and their journey through AISB. The event, held in Kirribilli Hall from 1:30 pm, was a proud and emotional moment for students, families, and staff alike. Read here: https://www.australianisb.ac.th/post/aisb-graduation-ceremony-2024-2025 The students also had a blast at the End of Year Dance  on 11 June. Organised by the Student Council with support from Mr Jack and Ms Michelle, the Hollywood-themed celebration was a dazzling way to mark the end of the academic year. Summer School is on in the high school. Bock 1 - a multitude of fine projects are on offer for students to tackle. Block 2 – an English Additional Language program is on offer for students wishing to improve their English skills. We are looking forward to next school year. The high school continues to expand, as does our staff, with the large increase in number of students. At this stage we will have 10 new members of staff. We will send their Bio’s early next school year. All the very best for the coming break.  Mr Michael Secondary Principal After School Activities (ASA) This term, our Early Years students took part in a wonderfully enriching ballet class as part of our After School Activities (ASA) program. Throughout the weeks, the children explored the basics of ballet through music, movement, and imaginative storytelling. These sessions not only helped them develop physical coordination and balance but also encouraged creativity, focus, and self-expression in a nurturing and playful environment. We were incredibly proud to see all their hard work come together in a beautiful end-of-term ballet performance. The children danced with confidence and joy, showcasing the skills they’ve been practicing and their growing love for dance. A heartfelt thank you to all the families who came to support and cheer them on — your presence made the experience even more special. It was a lovely way to celebrate their achievements, and we look forward to many more memorable moments in the ASAs to come! Teaching and Learning Update Rebecca Hannan - Enrichment Programme Coordinator Over the course of this year, we’ve seen thoughtful and deliberate progress in the way teaching and learning are shaped at AISB. With a clear focus on evidence-based strategies and student-centred practices, our staff have worked collaboratively to ensure every student is supported and challenged. Our teachers have made great gains in adopting more explicit teaching approaches, using data to inform instructional decisions, and implementing differentiated strategies in the classroom. These developments have enabled us to better identify learning needs and design targeted support through strategic intervention programs. Building on our focus on differentiated learning, we’ve continued to promote high-quality learning across the school and introduced an Enrichment Programme to further challenge high-potential students. Students, parents, and teachers have responded positively, and the program is set to expand further next year. We extend our thanks to Naomi White, Deputy Head of Primary and Head of Teaching and Learning, for her dedicated leadership this year. Naomi has worked closely with staff to support professional growth, guide instructional development, and build a culture of reflection and collaboration. Her commitment to student learning and staff development has had a meaningful impact across the school. As we celebrate the end of a successful year, we thank our teachers, students, and families for their partnership and look forward to building on this positive growth. STEAM Mr. Gareth Openshaw, Head of STEAM and Assistant Head of Primary This month marked an exciting new chapter for AISB as we officially established our first-ever Esports team and jumped into our first international competition! Three of our secondary students showed their talent and sportsmanship in a Brawl Stars tournament, competing against international schools from Thailand, China, Malaysia, Singapore, and Nepal. They represented AISB incredibly well, securing 8 wins against 4 losses in best-of-three matches, achieving a very respectable 5th place overall. This fantastic debut is just the beginning! We're thrilled to announce that AISB has been invited to become a founding member of the International Schools Esports League Thailand (ISELT). We hope this will pave the way for many more AISB teams to participate in a diverse range of esports games and tournaments in the future across both primary and secondary. Celebrating Success We’re so proud of the 30 AISB students who represented our school at the Mini Marlin Mayhem at St. Andrews School. Many earned medals, and every single one achieved personal bests — showing their hard work and determination. Huge congratulations to all our swimmers for making it such a special and memorable day! Axyl was named AISB Chess Champion on Saturday with a strong score of 4.5/5. On Sunday, he represented AISB at the KIS International Chess Tournament and won the U7 division with a perfect 6/6. In total, he played 11 games over two days, finishing with 10 wins, 1 draw, and no losses—an excellent demonstration of strategic thinking, resilience, and composure. Our team’s combined effort earned 3rd place overall among more than 100 participants. Every match was a chance to grow—and our players rose to the challenge. Well done, AISB Chess players! AISB School Calendar 2025/26 Now Available Our AISB School Calendar for the 2025/26 school year  is now available on our website. Stay informed about important dates, school events, and holidays. 🔗 Click here to view the calendar Make sure to bookmark it for easy access throughout the year! That's all for this month! We hope you enjoyed this month's newsletter. If you have any feedback or news you'd like to share for our next newsletter, please send us an email at enquiries@australianisb.ac.th .

Written by Mr John, Chess Coordinator The weekend of 31 May – 1 June marked a major achievement for chess at the Australian International School Bangkok (AISB), with standout performances both on campus and at a competitive interschool tournament. On Saturday, 31 May, AISB held its internal chess championship. Axyl Taylor clinched the title of AISB Chess Champion with a near-perfect score of 4.5 out of 5. AISB Chess Champion 2025, Axyl from Y1 Cassowaries Laromir followed closely in second place with 4 points, while Mako Tonegawa took third with 3.5 points. 2nd Place - Laromir from Y5 Osprey Third Place - Mako from Y4 Red Backs Ten students competed, including seasoned players and promising newcomers, making for a highly competitive tournament that tested strategic thinking, focus, and endurance across all matches. The following day, seven AISB students represented the school at a large-scale chess tournament at KIS International School, with over 100 participants across multiple age groups. Axyl dominated the Under-7 division, winning all six matches to take first place. Thanks to strong individual results, the AISB team placed third overall, earning a team trophy—a remarkable outcome considering the size and calibre of the competition. A special mention goes to Axyl, who played 11 games over two days, finishing with 10 wins, 1 draw, and no losses—a truly outstanding effort. Congratulations to all players for their focus, resilience, and impressive results on the board.

Our Foundation students explored music and the environment this term through Eddie the Penguin Saves the World —a joyful mini-musical about a curious penguin who discovers how small actions can help protect our planet. This message of sustainability has guided our learning, sparking thoughtful conversations and inspiring creative expression through song, rhythm, and performance. Each class contributed a unique piece to this special showcase: Wallabies – Three Little Monkeys The Wallabies played the note Mi  on the xylophone with every cheerful “hee hee.” Their performance was full of fun and growing musical awareness. Koalas – Bravest Little Tug With determination, the Koalas played the note Do  and tackled a glissando—a sliding technique that added flair. Their teamwork brought the little tugboat’s story to life. Potoroos – Party Time Performing the pattern Mi–Re–Do  on the xylophone, the Potoroos impressed with sharp focus and infectious energy, lighting up the room with rhythm and coordination. Dingoes – In the Waves The Dingoes evoked the sea by playing Do  on the xylophone and layering in rhythm with bells. Their creativity and musicality truly made waves. Through Eddie’s story, our students reflected on their role in caring for the Earth—singing about switching off lights, turning off taps, walking instead of driving, and reusing and recycling. These small steps reflect the ongoing sustainability efforts at our Soi 20 campus. Our Foundation students reminded us all: no one is too small to make a difference. With hearts full of music and minds full of purpose, they are already growing into the compassionate global citizens our world needs.

Our Kindergarten concert, “There’s a Sunflower in My Supper,”  was a joyful surprise for many — seeing our young learners memorise songs, follow cues, and perform with such confidence was truly inspiring. Through music, movement, and storytelling, they brought the stage to life and reminded us just how capable and creative early learners can be. Here’s a glimpse into the wonderful moments each class shared: Performed by Kindergarten Quolls & Kindergarten Emus “It’s a Lovely Day!”A cheerful opening that set the tone for the concert — a celebration of sunshine, nature, and new beginnings. “Don’t Mess with Mr Bull!”A humorous and dramatic number, full of character and playful warnings — our young performers had great fun with this one! “Come to My Stall”A lively song showcasing community and cooperation — each child proudly took part in building the market-day scene. Performed by Kindergarten Wombats & Kindergarten Silver Gulls “Little Seeds, Big Seeds” A thoughtful song about growth, both in nature and in ourselves. The children expressed these big ideas so beautifully. “It Can’t Do it on its Own” A powerful reminder that teamwork and helping hands are needed for things to flourish — a lovely message, sung with sincerity. “Wonderful Wildlife” A joyful celebration of Australian animals, wrapping up this section with lively moves and catchy tunes. Music Class Performances – A Showcase of Pitch, Rhythm, and Expression Kindergarten Quolls – “Joey’s Off to Bed” A gentle lullaby using mini xylophones  and tuned bells  (So, Mi). A soothing and charming moment from our youngest learners. Kindergarten Emus – “Circle Around” An engaging piece using sticks  and tuned bells  (La, So). Their sense of rhythm and energy brought this piece to life. Kindergarten Wombats – “Kinder Roo and Joey” A sweet, storytelling piece using sticks  and tuned bells  (Fa), performed with heart and focus. Kindergarten Silver Gulls – “Work Out Time” A fun and upbeat performance using tuned bells  (Do, Re, Mi), encouraging movement and musical awareness. Finale – Syndicate Song “We Sowed a Seed” - All four classes came together to sing this touching finale — a musical symbol of the growth we’ve seen in each child this year. It was a powerful and emotional way to close the concert. To our brilliant students — thank you for shining so brightly on stage, just like sunflowers reaching for the sun. To our teachers and staff — your care helped every little seed grow with confidence and joy. And to our wonderful families — thank you for being the roots that support and nurture our children each day. This concert was a beautiful reminder of what can bloom when we grow together. 🌻

The curtains rose and the lights dimmed as students from Years 4 to 6 brought the magic of Beauty and the Beast  to life — and what a spectacular debut it was for our brand-new performance hall in the Kirribilli Building . It was the very first major performance held in this inspiring new space, and what a way to mark the beginning of many memorable shows to come. Watch in YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wStUlZH7FwU Months of preparation led up to this moment, and it was clear from the very first scene that our students were ready to shine. They had been rehearsing tirelessly — memorising lines, perfecting dance routines, and fine-tuning every scene under the guidance of our passionate staff. For many of the students, this was their first major production, and they stepped onto the stage with confidence, excitement, and a deep sense of pride. The energy in the Kirribilli Building was electric. Audiences were transported into the heart of the enchanted tale — with castle scenes, charming villagers, and enchanted household objects brought vividly to life by stunning costumes and captivating performances. From solo songs to ensemble scenes, each moment showcased the learning behind the magic — voice, movement, and character coming together in harmony. With proud parents, teachers, and friends in the audience, our students delivered a performance that was both moving and unforgettable. Beauty and the Beast Main Cast Belle - Siah & Halyn Beast - Seon & Hermis Enchantress - Zara B. Maurice - Ayaan & Ren Gaston - Liam & Paul Lefou - Wiley & Jacob Le filles - Nana , Aria , Nami Lumiere - Shirley & Zoe Cogsworth - Daria & Scarlett Mrs. Potts - Tommie & Emily Chip - Hijiri & Ritsuho Babette - Jessica & Jaidee Madam De La Grande Bouche - Bella & Dhruthi Monsieur D'Arque - Zara C. & Wilma Wolves - Madison, Wanyu, Uyan, Milly and Suki Baker - March Book seller - Thor Narrators: Nova, Lucy, Eunbin and Saya The final curtain was met with thunderous applause — a testament to the incredible talent and dedication on display. This production marked more than just the end of a school term — it marked the beginning of a new chapter for our Performing Arts programme, proudly housed in the Kirribilli Building. With its state-of-the-art facilities, lighting, and sound, the space allowed students to perform at their best and brought a whole new level of professionalism to our school productions. Congratulations to every student involved, and thank you to our teachers, production team, and families who supported the journey every step of the way. Director and Vocal coach: Preeyakit Buranasin (Mr. Fox) Choreographer: Klittin Kiatmetha (Kru Waii) Ensemble Vocal Coach: Tom Solon Stage Manager: Mayric Anne Arellano Stage Set up and Props: Jessica Devahastin, Floater TAs and Art team Costume Designer: Aisb Parent Costume Committee A special thank you also goes to the parents and costume committee for their amazing support in creating the beautiful costumes that brought each character to life. Your creativity and hard work added an extra sparkle to the show. We look forward to many more magical moments on the Kirribilli stage.

What an absolute joy it was to watch our Nursery 1 and Nursery 2 students shine on stage during this year’s "Farmyard Fun"  concert. From cheeky ducks to sunny songs and cheerful dancing, our young learners brought the spirit of the farm to life through music and movement. Each class showcased their confidence, creativity, and teamwork—making this performance a heartwarming highlight of the school year. Class Performances In Nursery 1, The Possums  delighted us with “Down on the Plain”, “Six Little Ducks”, and the lively instrument song “Roly Poly” using rhythm sticks. The Leafies  brought smiles with “Shaky Egg”, “Animal Color”, and “My Sandblocks” using sandblocks. All Nursery 1 students also performed the joyful syndicate songs “Animal Farm”, “Fun on the Farm”, and “If I Had a Farm” together, filling the stage with fun and friendship. In Nursery 2, The Rosellas  energised the audience with “Go Bananas”, “Five Little Ducks”, and the charming “The Tailor and the Mouse” using bells. The Cockatoos  warmed our hearts with “Good Morning Farm Animals”, a beautiful rendition of The Beatles' “Here Comes the Sun”, and an upbeat “Hickory Dickory Dock” using drums and castanets. The Tassie Devils  rounded out the show with “Morris the Rocking Horse”, “Wiggle Up, Giddy Up!”, and the rhythmic “Fiddle Dee Dee” using rhythm sticks. We witnessed each child step forward with pride and joy, supported by their classmates and teachers. A heartfelt thank you goes to our dedicated teaching teams and music educators, whose creativity, patience, and preparation helped bring this farmyard concert experience to life. And to our wonderful families—thank you for your continued support and for being there to cheer on your children. Your presence truly made this event special. We are so proud of each and every child for their courage, enthusiasm, and joyful participation. We hope you enjoyed every moment as much as we did.

Get ready for a giggle-filled morning of farmyard fun at our upcoming Curious Possums Playtime. 🗓️ Saturday, 24th May 2025 ⏰ 10:30 AM – 12:15 PM 📍 Australian International School Bangkok (Soi 20 Campus) Perfect for little ones aged 1 to 3 years, this playful session is packed with laughter, learning, and plenty of barnyard charm. Here’s what’s in store: 🎶 Sing and dance along with moo-sical farmyard favourites 🎨 Get creative with hands-on barn animal crafts 🐑 Dive into sensory and messy play stations 🥕 Enjoy tasty snacks during the session 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 to the farm🐾🌾

Quick Links Early Years Summer School Primary Summer School Secondary Summer School AISB Summer School is officially open for students from Nursery to Year 12. From 16th June to 11th July 2025,  AISB will be full of fun, learning, and making friends . With a focus on fun-filled activities and enriching experiences, our hands-on program nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and personal growth through STEAM, literacy, music, arts and crafts, sports, outdoor fun, project-based activities and more. EARLY YEARS SUMMER SCHOOL 2025: PLAY, LEARN, AND GROW Our Summer School Program offers a dynamic and engaging experience through our Holistic Program and Sports Program . Designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and active learning, our young learners will explore new skills, build confidence, and stay active in a fun and supportive environment. Program Offerings Holistic Program Sports Program Sports & Swimming Chess & STEAM exploration Language Enrichment Maths & Science Discovery Imaginative paly and Storytelling Art an Music Swimming Basketball and Football Dance & Movement Science exploration Thai Language and Culture Literacy & Numeracy Arts & Craft Music and Rhythm Register here: AISB Soi 20 Campus: Summer School 2025  E-Link Application Form 📍 Location : AISB Soi 20 Campus 👥 Ages : 18 months – 6 years old If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Krystal at krystal.abo@australianisb.ac.th Primary Summer School 2025: A Fun-Filled, Full-Day Experience at AISB Get ready for an exciting full-day summer program packed with hands-on workshops and fun activities in Sport, Science, Technology, Art, Language & Culture, Music, and more. Each session is designed to spark curiosity and allow children to develop new skills in a supportive, fun-filled environment. Whether it's experimenting with new technologies, painting a masterpiece, or learning a new instrument, there’s something for every child. ✅ Learn from expert instructors ✅ Boost creativity, critical thinking & teamwork ✅ Make new friends Our summer school runs for a full day, giving children ample time to immerse themselves in fun, educational activities. This is perfect for parents looking for a complete summer experience. * 10 July is Public Holiday - No Summer School After School Activities After School Activities available from 2:15pm to 3:00pm (Additional Cost) Transportation Fee An additional cost for transportation fee will be applied Register here: AISB Soi 31 Primary Campus: Summer School 2025  E-Link Application Form  📍 AISB Soi 31 Primary Campus 👥 Ages 5 - 12 years old If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact Ms Chelsey/Ms Shailly at admin31@australianisb.ac.th Secondary Summer School 2025 Get ready for a dynamic, hands-on summer where creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork take center stage. From designing games and racing vegetable-powered cars to exploring renewable energy and building alien habitats, every activity is designed to challenge and inspire. Block 1: Project-Based Learning in Action 16 June - 27 June 2025 Project Description Tie Dye Start the summer school adventure with a creative splash! In this activity, students will tie-dye shirts in their team colours, preparing for exciting competitions and team-building activities. It’s a fun and vibrant way to kick off the project camp while fostering teamwork and creativity. Vegetable racers In this hands-on project, students will work in small teams to design and build the fastest (and least mouldy) vegetable race car. Using engineering skills and a little imagination, they’ll create their own racing vehicles from vegetables. Then, it’s time for the ultimate race-off, where the fastest car takes the win! Amazing race This thrilling challenge will have students racing through a series of sports and adventure-filled challenges. Working in teams, they’ll build leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as they tackle each obstacle. The race ends with the ultimate prize for the team that masters the challenges and claims victory. Design a Game In this project, students will learn the fundamentals of game development by creating their own computer games from scratch. Step-by-step, they will design a browser-based game, developing key skills such as coding, creativity, and problem-solving. Each technique builds upon the last, ensuring that students can continue enhancing their game after the program ends. Alien Habitat Survival Students will embark on an interstellar mission to explore an alien planet’s habitability. Through hands-on experiments, such as soil sampling, water testing, and ecosystem building, they’ll discover the conditions needed for life to thrive beyond Earth. This project fosters curiosity and teamwork while promoting scientific exploration. City Scapes + The game of life In this immersive project, students will create and develop their own cities, combining English, Geography, History, and Economics. They’ll engage in activities like designing urban plans, exploring economic models, and incorporating artistic elements such as cityscapes and graffiti. This project encourages creativity, innovation, and a deeper understanding of the world. Renewable Energy Harvesting Students will design and build working models of windmills and water wheels to generate electricity and power LED lights. Through hands-on learning, they’ll explore renewable energy and discover how wind and water can create a sustainable future. This project sparks creativity and develops engineering skills, all while promoting sustainability. Block 2: Boost Your English Skills 30 June - 11 July 2025 Week Theme Focus Area Highlights 1 School and Social Life - Building confidence - Social interaction - Asking for help - Resolving disagreements 🗣️ Fun mini roleplays (introductions, small talk, school life) 🎭 Skit performance in a school or social scenario 2 Future Goals - Talking about ambitions - Giving advice - Expressing opinions - Collaboration 🎥 “Future Me” video messages 💡 Pitching ideas 🧳 Planning an imaginary school trip 🎭 Final roleplay performance: future-focused scenario (optional extension) Join us for a summer of innovation, collaboration, and learning. After School Activities After School Activities available from 2:15pm to 3:00pm (Additional Cost) Transportation Fee An additional cost for transportation fee will be applied Register here: AISB Soi 31 Secondary Campus: Summer School 2025  E-Link Application Form  📍 AISB Soi 31 Secondary Campus 👥 Ages 12 - 18 years old If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact Ms Chelsey/Ms Shailly at admin31@australianisb.ac.th Important Note: Insurance:  Participants must have their own insurance coverage. See you soon at AISB Summer School 2025!

We’re inviting our AISB chess enthusiasts to take part in a day of strategic thinking, friendly competition, and focused fun at our Chess Championship Tournament 2025 . This is a one-off tournament designed to give our students a real taste of tournament-style chess in a familiar, supportive setting. Event Details Date:  Saturday, 31st May Time:  8:30 AM – 2:30 PM Location:  Soi 31 Campus – Clarendon Building Format & Play 6 Rounds Total Players will compete in six matches throughout the day, following a Swiss-style pairing system to ensure balanced and fair matchups after each round. 15 Minutes per Game (No Increments) Each player will have 15 minutes on the clock, making each match a rapid-paced game that encourages quick thinking, time management, and focus under pressure. Flexible Groupings There are no fixed age divisions. However, if natural groupings (e.g., by age or experience) become clear based on registration, we’ll make adjustments to support fair and enjoyable play for all participants. Limited to 24 Participants To maintain a focused and well-managed tournament environment, registration is capped at 24 AISB students. Early sign-up is recommended to secure a spot. Registration Early Bird:  900 THB (until 21 May) Regular:  1,100 THB (22–30 May) Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfdC94EYOrbdpo15J9qd-vnauA9diHa2NKVTu2QDGF2RH_VJg/viewform This is a great opportunity for students to build confidence, sharpen their decision-making, and enjoy the game in a calm, focused environment. It's not about winning—it's about learning, improving, and connecting with others who love chess. We look forward to a great day of chess at AISB.

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