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Quick Links Our Director's Update Early Years Update Primary Update Secondary Update Global Citizenship Sports and ASA STEAM Teaching and Learning University Counselling Our Director's Update Dear Parents and Friends, Welcome to our first edition of the Australian International School Bangkok newsletter – The AISB Insider! I hope you have had a good start to 2025 – it’s incredible to think that January is now over.  Schools are always busy places, full of activity. At AISB, we strive to provide students with a high-quality international education in safe, secure and friendly environment.  At the Parent Committee Flat White Friday gathering, I was pleased to hear from parents that their children are happy at AISB.  They enjoy getting up each morning to come to school; feeling safe and happy at school is necessary for effective learning to take place.  Certainly, the smiles and greetings I receive from students as I make my way around the campuses reassures me that we are on the right track.  The purpose of this newsletter is to share information about what is happening in our school, especially information about our programmes, students, staff and campuses.  We want to celebrate successes and keep you better informed about what we are doing and why. Initially, this will be a monthly newsletter; however, as the year progresses, we will review its frequency. As the newsletter evolves over the coming months, please let us know if there are other things you would like us to include. In the meantime, enjoy this first edition of our newsletter. Wishing you well for the month of February ahead. Yours in education,  Henri Bemelmans Director Early Years Update Written by Sheridan Musto, Head of Early Years and Soi 20 Campus It has been a wonderful start to the semester at our Soi 20 Early Years Campus! This semester we have opened a brand-new Nursery 1 class, welcoming even more young learners into our community. Across all year levels, we have greeted many new families and students, and it has been wonderful to see everyone settling in, adjusting to new routines, and forming strong relationships with their teachers and classmates. The start of the year has been filled with joyful celebrations and engaging learning experiences. Maths Week was a huge success, with students exploring numbers, patterns, and problem-solving through hands-on activities and games. It was wonderful to see our youngest learners counting and sorting, while our older students tackled early problem-solving challenges and mathematical reasoning in a fun and interactive way. Watch our Welcome back to Term 2 Reel on Instagram Australia Day at Soi 20 We also embraced Australia Day, with children engaging in themed activities to learn about Australian culture, animals, and famous landmarks. Storytelling, music, and craft activities helped bring this celebration to life, fostering a sense of curiosity and cultural appreciation.  Paper Waste & Sustainability This semester, we are also focusing on sustainability and being more mindful of paper usage and waste. We have introduced monthly paper-free days, encouraging creative and digital alternatives to reduce our environmental impact. Students and teachers are also looking at ways to recycle and reuse materials, promoting more sustainable classroom practices. We have some exciting sustainability projects coming up - stay tuned for more details on how we can all play a part in making our school greener! Soi 20 Parent Coffee Mornings In addition to classroom learning, we have also focused on strengthening our school community through Parent Coffee Mornings. These gatherings have been a fantastic way for parents to connect with one another and meet our leadership team. We value these opportunities to build relationships and foster a sense of belonging among our families, and we look forward to continuing them throughout the year. From Nursery through to Year 1, we continue to focus on fostering a love for learning, exploration, and creativity in all that we do. Our students are growing in confidence, independence, and social skills, making each day full of meaningful learning moments. We look forward to many more exciting experiences ahead this semester! Primary Update Written by Hannah Carew, Head of Primary Welcome back to a new term! A warm welcome to all the new families joining us this semester - we are delighted to have you as part of our AISB community. It has been wonderful to see how quickly the students have settled into Semester 2, enthusiastically engaging in their learning and enjoying time with their friends. Beyond the Classroom Excursions The Primary School has had a busy start to the semester! Year 3 students enjoyed an exciting day on their field trip to Mini Murrah farm, while Year 5 had the incredible opportunity to visit the Thai Parliament. Both trips provided engaging experiences that extended learning beyond the classroom and left the children with wonderful memories. Maths Week We also celebrated Maths Week, with students dressing up in creative mathematical-themed costumes and participating in scavenger hunts and challenges that brought mathematical concepts to life in fun and engaging ways. Australia Day To round off January, we celebrated Australia Day. Students explored the unique flora and fauna of Australia and learned about its beauty and significance as a country. Coming up in February: Looking ahead, February promises even more excitement! Highlights include: International and Multicultural Week, celebrating the diversity of our community. Year 1 and 2 Sports Day, where students will demonstrate their athletic skills and teamwork. Field trips for Year 1 visiting the Planetarium, Year 2 will be learning about sea life at the aquarium and Year 6 being provided with the opportunity to explore the National Science Museum. All these experiences offer further opportunities for enriching children’s learning. Science Week, with activities designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for scientific exploration. To stay up to date with all these activities and events, please make sure to read your child’s homeroom teacher’s weekly newsletter, sent every Friday. AISB Values Focus: Integrity The AISB Values Focus in Primary School for February is  Integrity. AISB has defined integrity as: I am honest, trustworthy and take responsibility for my actions, behaviours, speech and decisions . AISB develops integrity through:  Honesty  - At the core of AISB interactions lies honesty, essential for authentic and transparent communication, which forms the foundation of trust in our relationships. Trustworthy  - Students at AISB exhibit trustworthiness by demonstrating dependability, fulfilling promises, upholding confidentiality, and acting sincerely, thus gaining the trust and confidence of others in diverse relationships and settings. Reliability  - Students at AISB uphold integrity by ensuring that their words and actions are aligned, thereby preserving credibility and reliability. Ethical – Students demonstrate ethical behaviours through their words and actions that align with their moral values and standards, guiding them to make decisions and behave with honesty, fairness, integrity, and respect, ultimately fostering positive outcomes and maintaining societal norms. Responsibility and Accountability - Students at AISB value responsibility as they exhibit accountability, reliability, and conscientious decision-making, taking ownership of their actions, fulfilling commitments, considering consequences, and behaving in a way that positively impacts themselves and others across different situations. Demonstrate AISB Core Values - Students at AISB uphold and demonstrate our school’s core values through our actions both within and beyond the school grounds, representing AISB with pride and integrity. Bounce Back: February Theme – Handling Emotions During February, our Bounce Back Theme is Handling Emotions . Through these lessons, students will explore the important role emotions play in our daily lives and learn practical strategies for understanding and managing them effectively. We all experience a wide range of emotions every day and these feelings are essential for helping us thrive and build positive relationships. Pleasant emotions—such as joy, pride, excitement and love—teach us what makes us happy and inspire us to aim high. Experiencing these emotions frequently can also help children become more resilient, allowing them to "bounce back" from challenges or setbacks. Our feelings are necessary for us to survive and co-exist harmoniously with others. Without pleasant feelings (e.g. feeling pleased, proud, excited, curious, loving) we would not learn what makes us happy and what we want to strive for. Experiencing a lot of pleasant feelings can help children become more resilient and bounce back more quickly from a difficulty or setback. Unpleasant feelings are also important, too. Without unpleasant feelings as warnings (e.g. fear, worry and anger) we would be less able to protect ourselves from possible danger or to stand up for ourselves. Some unpleasant feelings (e.g. embarrassment, disappointment and sadness) also motivate us to think deeply about some of the difficult and challenging situations we sometimes have to cope with (e.g. failing, loss and rejection). This type of reflection helps us to learn from our experiences and become better able to make good decisions and solve problems. Our unpleasant emotions can sometimes ‘hijack’ us and we react to them by behaving in ways that alienate others or work against us. Learning how to express their emotions in a positive and assertive way helps children to feel more in control when things are difficult for them. Emotional Learning at Home: Here are some key messages you can share with your child to support their emotional learning at home: Talking to someone can help you process your feelings. Don’t let your feelings “hijack” your actions. Naming your emotions can help you manage them better. Ask yourself, “Did they really mean it?” before reacting. Unhelpful thoughts can make you feel worse—try to change your perspective. It’s okay to feel mixed emotions about the same thing. You can shift a bad mood into a good one. Learning to understand how others feel is called empathy—a skill that helps us build stronger connections. By helping children recognise and handle their emotions, we are equipping them with lifelong skills to navigate relationships, overcome challenges and make thoughtful decisions. Secondary Update Written by Michael Bryce, Head of Secondary High school students and staff are always engaged in academics and co-curricular programmes. Here are some of the key activities from January: Student Awards The Second Term School Values Awards were presented on Wednesday, 29th January, focusing on Integrity. Our award structure now includes four categories throughout the year: Personal Best Integrity Respect Academic Excellence (awarded at the end of the school year) The next award assembly will cover January to April and will be held at the start of the final term. Recent Secondary Events & Activities Model United Nations (MUN):   AISB Secondary students participated in the Model United Nations (MUN), an incredible platform for learning about global diplomacy, leadership, and critical thinking. The conference proved to be an exceptional success for our students, who not only showcased their skills but also achieved notable recognition, reflecting the academic excellence and leadership that define AISB. Read more about our MUN success here: Link Model United Nations (MUN) participants Congratulations to Chloe in Year 9 Litchfield and Samridh in Year 10 Tarra Bulga for winning the Best Position Paper in their respective committees. Australia Day Activities:  Organised by Mr Peter and the House Captains. Upcoming Student Initiatives Valentine’s Day: The Student Council is selling roses. Songkran Celebrations: Thai staff and students are preparing for the end-of-term festivities. International Biology/Art Competition: Open to all students. Last year, our own Aiyara McWilliam was the 2024 World Champion in this competition! Multicultural Week (17th-21st March) March 21st – Harmony Day (Australia): A celebration of unity across different communities. Multicultural Food Fair (Friday, 21st March): Parents are welcome to participate! More details to follow. Camps (12th-14th March) Year 7, 8, and 9 camps will take place during this period. For details, please contact Ms Panita Sorasongkram (Oil) at panita.s@australianisb.ac.th Thank you for your continued support as we provide enriching experiences for our high school students. Global Citizenship On Saturday, January 25th a group of students, parents, and teachers spent the day volunteering with Bangkok Community Help (BCH). The team assisted with meal preparation and clothes sorting before distributing the meals and clothing to elderly community members in the Khlong Toei lower income community. The group then traveled to the On Nut area where they delivered meals to migrant workers in need. The event created an opportunity for students, teachers and parents to work together and support local community members in need. It highlighted AISB's commitment to community building, which is one of the school's core values. The event was a meaningful experience for all involved, and AISB looks forward to creating more opportunities for community engagement in the future. Sports and ASA Our Term 2 After School Activities on Soi 20 are off to a great start! After-school activities are a wonderful way for children to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships. These activities provide a safe, structured environment for kids to engage in creative, physical, or academic pursuits. By participating, children not only stay active and engaged, but also build confidence, learn teamwork, and improve time management. We are excited to expand our partnership with StrongKiddos, which offers exciting activities such as CrossFit Kids and Active ABCs which give children an opportunity to build strength, coordination, balance and confidence in their movement. STEAM Semester 2 has begun, and with it comes a change in specialist subjects for our primary students. Those who studied Digital Technology and Media Arts in the first semester will now move on to Design Technologies and Art and Design, and vice versa. This rotation ensures that all students gain a well-rounded experience in the STEAM disciplines, developing skills in both technology and the arts. Last week, our student counsellor, Dr Ean Burchell, ran a workshop for parents about online safety and social media. The session covered some of the challenges children may face online, as well as practical ways for parents to support their children in navigating the digital world. For parents who were unable to join the session, you can view our Cyber Safety and Social Media presentation in the link below. Link: Cyber Safety and Social Media presentation The Innovation Centre team is busy planning our Innovation Celebration Week, which will take place in the final week of Term 2. During this week, parents will be invited into the Innovation Centre to explore some of the fantastic projects students have been working on this year. Parents will also have the chance to experience lessons in Digital Technologies, Design Technologies, Media Arts, and Art and Design from their child’s perspective. More details, including sign-up information, will be shared in the coming months, so please keep an eye on future newsletters. Finally, we are pleased to share that our eSports after-school activity has been expanded to include secondary students. This activity not only helps to develop future-ready skills such as problem-solving and collaboration but also provides an exciting opportunity to connect with other schools in the region for friendly competitions. Teaching and Learning Each week, staff participate in collegial Professional Learning sessions. These one hour sessions provide opportunities for teachers to collaborate and engage in the latest research in education and discuss the implementation of quality teaching strategies to continually improve student outcomes. Engagement in ongoing Professional Learning is integral to our teachers' continuous reflection on their own practice, which is highly valued by AISB. Our teaching staff from Foundation - Year 6 have recently been engaging in sessions exploring the most effective research based explicit teaching strategies, and the impact these have on student success. Our Secondary teachers have been focusing on exploring a variety of quality differentiation strategies, which ensure the engagement, inclusion and success of all learners. Additionally, our teachers are engaging with ongoing data analysis to inform their teaching and identify areas of individual student need to plan effective teaching strategies for student growth.  There is also a lot of ongoing work at AISB currently with the Council of International Schools (CIS), with our staff compiling evidence to meet the standards of CIS, to assist us to continually reflect and improve upon our practices and processes. University Counselling Written by Mr. Tom Lane, Head of Senior Year Groups As the Head of Senior Year Groups at AISB, I am proud to support our students as they prepare for the next stage of their academic journey. University counselling plays a vital role in helping our students navigate their options and make informed decisions about their future. Our Year 12 students are now in the final stages of preparation for their Summer exams, and we are already seeing fantastic outcomes. Cherie Wu has secured an offer from a top university in Hong Kong, while Daniel Jeung has received offers from four of the five UK universities he applied to. Amelia Cooper and Kritima Sukhaphinand will both be making applications for their chosen pathways later this year, with continued support from all here at AISB. These successes are a testament to their hard work and the guidance they have received throughout the process. For our Year 11 students, this has been an important year of exploration and planning. Using Unifrog, our new University preparation and exploration application, they have been researching potential courses, countries, and Universities as they prepare to make applications next year. This platform has been invaluable in helping them identify their strengths, interests, and aspirations.  It is incredibly rewarding to see our students grow in confidence as they work toward their goals, as well as achieving them. At AISB, we are committed to providing the tools, resources, and personalised support they need to succeed, whether that’s in pursuing higher education locally or internationally. I look forward to celebrating even more achievements as our students take these exciting next steps in their journeys. University of Sydney comes to Bangkok The University of Sydney will host an Open Day in Bangkok! Details of the event which can be found here " Meet USYD in Bangkok ", will take place on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 1-5 PM at Emporium Suites Bangkok by Chatrium. Students may register via the link provided above or by scanning the QR code on the poster below. That's all for this month! We hope you enjoyed the first edition of our 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 .

Quick Links Our Director's Update New School Video Early Years Update Primary Update Secondary Update STEAM Teaching and Learning AISB Enrichment Programme School Events Calendar Our Director's Update I hope you and your families enjoyed the recent mid-term break and managed some quality family time together.  As we enter the third month of 2025, I am pleased to share some more reports on the activities and work taking place at AISB.  Our students and staff have been involved in so many things throughout the month of February – from field trips to special events such as International and Multicultural Week capped off by the International Food Fare, to sporting events and inter-school competitions such as chess and MUN preparations.  There is always something happening! I would like to thank everyone that contributes so enthusiastically to the life of AISB and who make such events and activities possible.  From our parent supporters to our students and teachers. Thank you for all that you do to make AISB such a vibrant place in which to learn and work. Parents will soon receive an online “intentions form” for next school year.  We are well underway with planning for the new school year and to do so successfully, we of course need to know what your plans might be.  Your honest response will help us enormously, allowing us to better plan for both future staff and resource needs. Please keep an eye open for the related email which will come soon.  I hope you enjoy reading through the latest edition of the newsletter. We will continue trying to make it even more informative, and a place to celebrate the achievements of our students.  Thank you for your reading and have a great month of March ahead. Yours in education, Henri Bemelmans Director New School Video Launch Written by AISB Marketing Team We are excited to share our new school video, filmed across both our Soi 20 and Soi 31 campuses. Captured over two days at the end of last year, the video highlights the unique strengths of AISB as a boutique international school, including our central location in Sukhumvit, a balanced curriculum, diverse activities, and modern facilities. It also showcases the happiness of our students and the engaging learning environment that cultivates our AISB community. We encourage you to watch and share these videos with friends and family to showcase the best of our school community. AISB Soi 31 Campus Video AISB Soi 20 Campus Video Early Years Update Written by Sheridan Musto, Head of Early Years and Soi 20 Campus It has been a busy and exciting few weeks at our Soi 20 Early Years Campus! From hands-on learning experiences to engaging excursions and vibrant celebrations, our students have been fully immersed in rich and meaningful learning opportunities. Nursery: Growing Independence 🌟 Our youngest students in Nursery have been focusing on developing independence and self-help skills, making big strides in their daily routines. From practicing positive morning routines at home and school to mastering self-feeding with cutlery, our little ones have been gaining confidence in looking after themselves. We are also encouraging them to try new and unfamiliar foods, promoting healthy eating habits and a sense of adventure at mealtimes. Kindergarten’s Butterfly Garden Excursion 🦋 Our Kindergarten students recently went on a wonderful excursion to the Chatuchak Butterfly Garden, where they had the chance to explore and observe these beautiful creatures up close. This trip was a perfect connection to our inquiry into living things, allowing students to witness the life cycle of butterflies in a real-world setting. A huge thank you to our amazing parent helpers who joined us on this excursion - we truly appreciate your support! Back in the classroom, our young scientists have been carefully raising caterpillars, observing their transformation into chrysalises, and eagerly awaiting the moment they emerge as butterflies. The excitement reached new heights when we released them into our playground, reinforcing the beauty and wonder of nature. Year 1’s Trip to the Planetarium & Science Week 🚀 Aligning with Science Week, our Year 1 students had an out-of-this-world experience at the Planetarium! They explored the wonders of space, learned about planets, and deepened their understanding of the universe. This was an amazing way to bring their classroom learning to life and spark curiosity about the world beyond our own. Sports Days & Upcoming Events 🏅 Our Foundation and Year 1 students recently participated in their Sports Days, showing teamwork, perseverance, and school spirit. A big thank you to the Primary Campus for hosting us and to our PE Department for organising such fantastic activities. The students showed great enthusiasm and gave their best effort in every event! Next up, we have the Kindergarten Sports Day in March, where our young athletes will take on exciting challenges and demonstrate their physical skills.  International & Multicultural Week 🌍 We recently celebrated International & Multicultural Week, a highlight on our school calendar! Our committee worked hard to organise Potluck Picnic Lunches, where children had the opportunity to sample food from around the world and share a special meal with their families. It was heartwarming to see our community come together to embrace different cultures and cuisines. As we continue through the semester, we look forward to even more exciting learning opportunities, celebrations, and milestones for our students.  After School Activity (ASA) Spotlight Written by Debbie Sapiro, ASA Coordinator At Soi 20 we like to have a variety of ASAs to allow children a chance to practise different skills and explore ideas and creative pursuits in new ways. One of our popular ASAs on Soi 20 is cooking! This hands-on experience allows children to explore the basics of cooking, foster creativity, and develop essential skills such as teamwork, measuring, and following instructions. Each week, our young chefs get the chance to make simple, healthy, and delicious snacks and meals. From fruit salads to mini pizzas, the activities are designed to be age-appropriate and engaging for early years learners. Not only does this encourage independence, but it also gives children an opportunity to practice motor skills and explore new tastes. Primary Update Written by Hannah Carew, Head of Primary February has been a Month of Learning, Celebration and Community at AISB Primary We began by celebrating Lunar New Year, where students explored its traditions and significance in the final week of January. This was quickly followed by International and Multicultural Week, a time dedicated to recognising and acknowledging the diverse backgrounds of our AISB community. Students researched different nationalities, showcased traditional clothing in parades and enjoyed a variety of international cuisines at the AISB Food Festival. A huge thank you to our parents and community members who contributed to making this week such a success! Year 1 and 2 students had their long-awaited Sports Day at the Innovation Centre Green Space. It was a fantastic morning filled with teamwork, skill-building and plenty of enthusiasm. It was wonderful to have parents join us and we hope you enjoyed the event as much as the students did. Beyond the classroom, learning has continued through hands-on experiences. Year 6 visited the National Science Museum, Year 2 explored marine life at the aquarium and Year 1 embarked on a journey through space at the planetarium. These field trips provided valuable opportunities to extend learning in Science and Humanities. Year 6 field trip at the National Science Museum  Year 1 field trip to the Planetarium Looking ahead, March is looking to be just as engaging. Students will take part in Science Week activities, Year 5 and 6 will begin their School Values and Service Learning projects and Year 4 will head off on their field trips. We will also celebrate Harmony Day under the theme "Everyone Belongs" , followed by Parent-Teacher Conferences later in the month. We appreciate the ongoing support from parents and the wider AISB community. To stay informed about all these activities, please refer to your child’s homeroom teacher’s weekly newsletter, sent out every Friday. Bounce Back: March Theme – Positive Relationships  During March, our Bounce Back Theme is Positive Relationships . Through these lessons, students will explore the important role emotions play in our daily lives and learn practical strategies for understanding and managing them effectively. All children want close relationships with friends and classmates at school. These relationships are important to feeling happy and helping them to cope better with life’s occasional hard times. Children who have good social skills are more likely to be healthy and happy and to achieve more at school and be more successful in their future careers. They are less likely to get into trouble, or be attracted to antisocial peer groups or become depressed. There is a ‘luck’ factor with regards to the people they will meet as potential friends, but it will be their social skills that make the difference in developing and maintaining friendships. Social and Emotional Learning at home: Here are some key messages you can share with your child to support developing positive relationships at home: No one has close friends all the time and most people feel lonely sometimes. Not everyone will like you but lots of people will. Friendships can change and not be as strong as they once were. Social skills are ways of behaving that help people get along with others and make friends. To HAVE a good friend, you have to BE a good friend. It’s okay to have an argument as long as you don’t hurt the other person. By helping your child recognise and build positive relationships, we are equipping them with lifelong skills to navigate friendships, overcome challenges and make thoughtful decisions.  AISB Values Focus: Community The AISB Values Focus in Primary School for March is Community . AISB defined community as: I foster a sense of belonging and school spirit through serving my school and my community. Belonging - Students at AISB nurture an inclusive environment where all members experience a sense of identity, connection and value, fostering increasing engagement, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose within the community. Teamwork - We value the strength of teamwork, working collaboratively with others to reach shared objectives and acknowledging and celebrating each other's accomplishments. Celebrating diversity - We embrace diversity, honouring the unique qualities and perspectives that each individual brings. Equity and inclusion are fundamental to our school community, ensuring that everyone feels valued and included.  Positive relationships - Students demonstrate positive relationships by building trust, through actively engaging with and supporting fellow community members, fostering a sense of belonging, unity, and cooperation within the group. Service -  Students actively dedicate time, effort, and resources to support others and address community needs, fostering a sense of responsibility, compassion, and unity among peers. Connections - Students demonstrate connection by actively engaging, communicating, and forming relationships with peers to cultivate a sense of belonging, support, and shared identity within the community. Caring -  Students demonstrate caring in a community by being kind and helpful to others, supporting their friends and classmates, and ensuring everyone feels included and valued. Secondary Update Written by Michael Bryce, Head of Secondary High School note International week will be celebrated in the High School form March 17 to 21st. The two highlights for the week will be the International Food Fair, organised by Mr Tom Gagnon, and Harmony Day on Friday, 21st March 2025. The International Food Fair will feature a diverse selection of dishes representing the cultures within our school community. Students, staff, and families will have the opportunity to explore and appreciate global cuisines. More details on food contributions and participation will be shared soon. On the same day, we will also observe Harmony Day, which coincides with the International Day against racism. To mark the occasion, students are encouraged to wear an orange shirt (only) as orange is the internationally recognised colour for promoting unity and respect. Harmony Day is part of Harmony Week, a celebration of Australia's rich cultural diversity. Throughout the week, our school will engage in activities that foster inclusiveness, respect, and a strong sense of belonging for all Australians—honouring both the traditional custodians of the land and those who have come from around the world. More details on specific activities for the week will be shared soon. Student Council AISB Valentine’s Day 2025 Our most recent and successful event was our annual Valentine's Day. We sold various items such as Pink milk, shaved ice, and KitKats. Including the traditional roses that were bought to be given to anyone, including our special anonymous delivery service with personalized ‘love’ letters for interested students.  Students gathered to enjoy the snacks at lunchtime, spreading love and delight in the air. The council would like to say special thanks to Ms. Michelle for buying all the roses, the council members for participating with the shops, and of course, all the students who bought the roses and snacks. Secondary Assembly The AISB Secondary Assembly took place on Wednesday, 26th February 2025, bringing together students and staff for an inspiring session. The assembly highlighted key achievements, upcoming events, and student-led initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to a strong and engaged school community. Biology Conservation Trip On March 6th, A-Level Biology students Jisung and Kritima, accompanied by their teacher, visited the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) at Kao Look Chang. This sanctuary, located in Phetchaburi province, is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating Thailand's wildlife. ​ The students toured the facility, learning about the challenges faced by native species and the efforts to protect them. They observed various animals, including elephants, primates, and bears, gaining insights into their rehabilitation processes. ​ This experience allowed Jisung and Kritima to connect classroom studies with real-world conservation work, deepening their understanding of Thailand's biodiversity and the importance of ethical wildlife practices. Such educational visits are instrumental in inspiring future conservationists and promoting environmental stewardship. STEAM At our Innovation Centre, students have been putting in a lot of effort to their STEAM projects, and many of these will be showcased during our Innovation Centre Showcase week, happening in the final week of Term 2 (7-10 April). We’re excited to invite all parents to a special week-long event at AISB! As an important part of our school community, we’d love for you to experience firsthand the amazing learning opportunities we offer our students. From April 7th to 10th, we’re opening our doors for parents to join us during the Innovation Centre Showcase week. The event will feature parent workshops, followed by tours of the Innovation Centre. These workshops are designed to give you a deeper understanding of our teaching methods, with each session tailored to your child’s year level. For example, if your child is in Year 4, you can attend a Year 4 workshop where you’ll participate in a lesson just like a Year 4 student! It’s a great way to see the curriculum and teaching approach in action. We're offering workshops for all our Innovation Centre subjects, including Art and Design, Design Technologies, Digital Technologies, and Media Arts. The tours will give you the opportunity to explore our cutting-edge Innovation Centre, where creativity and innovation come to life. Our teachers will guide you through the space, showcasing student work and highlighting some of the exciting projects currently underway. We believe that parental involvement plays a key role in student success, and this event is a wonderful chance for you to engage with our school community and get a closer look at how we teach. Here are some photos from last year’s event: Please take a look at the schedule below, and follow this link to reserve your spot for the tour and/or workshop.  We look forward to welcoming you! Teaching and Learning Ms. Naomi White - Deputy Head of Primary & Head of Teaching and Learning  In Primary, our teachers from Foundation - Year 6 have been engaging in Professional Learning focussed on differentiating the content of the curriculum, to suit the needs of a variety of learners. In doing so, our staff carefully analyse the data from student assessments and observations of student performance, to form fluid groupings which target student areas of need. In particular, teachers have been focussing on constant analysis of student reading levels and looking at how individuals and groups can best be supported for maximum progress.  In Secondary, we have also been looking at differentiation practices and how these can fit with the Australian Curriculum (Years 7 & 8) and Cambridge courses (Years 9-12). The focus of our Professional Learning has been effective data analysis of student performance and seeking ways to support all learners towards individual growth. We have also explored the importance of understanding the science behind the developing teenage brain and what supports our students may need in navigating the world whilst they are ‘under construction’. This included discussing the research showing that the prefrontal cortex is the last area of the brain to mature, which controls functions like planning, prioritising and making good decisions.  AISB Enrichment Programme In any given classroom at every school, teachers are catering for a wide range of learning needs.  At AISB, we are broadening this scope to provide additional opportunities for high-potential students with the development of our Enrichment Programme.  By offering targeted challenge experiences in literacy, numeracy, and STEAM, the aim is to develop students’ critical and creative thinking skills through hands-on, inquiry-based learning.   Students are identified by the Enrichment Teacher and year-level teaching teams, based on evidence including standardised assessment results.  Membership of these groups is fluid and will change regularly according to the learning focus.  Emphasis is placed on communication and collaboration, so that students can benefit from sharing insights and approaches whilst being challenged to deepen their understanding. Groups in Years 4, 5, and 6 have begun with a numeracy focus, engaging in investigative tasks for creative problem-solving. Working in teams as ‘architects,’ they explored how many different house designs they could create using four cubes.  Going beyond rote procedures, higher-order mathematical thinking involves making connections, visualising patterns, and approaching problems from multiple perspectives.  The Enrichment programme will expand to other year levels, and other learning areas, over the coming weeks.  We look forward to sharing the learning with families and highlighting some of the innovative projects that students undertake.   Rebecca Hannan Enrichment Coordinator Upcoming Events - March 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 .

Discover our boutique campus centrally located in Sukhumvit. With modern facilities, highly qualified teachers, and a balanced curriculum, our intimate class sizes equip students with the skills to become compassionate young leaders of the future. Explore AISB’s unique academic and wellbeing curriculum in an inclusive, multicultural learning environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to see why so many families choose AISB. Join us for an inspiring Open Day at the Australian International School Bangkok. Click here to register About Our Open Days Our Open Day sessions will be structured in 2 parts: Part 1: Presentation (45 mins) - Learn about our school history, curriculum, learning approach and admissions process from our school leadership team. Part 2: Guided School Tour (45 mins)  - Discover our school in action as we showcase our classrooms and facilities across our boutique campus.  📍 Soi 20 Campus: Early Years - Nursery to Year 1 Date: 2nd April ⏰ Time: 9:30 am 📍 Soi 31 Campus: Primary - Year 1 to Year 6 Date: 5th March ⏰ Time: 9 am 📍 Soi 31 Campus: Secondary - Year 7 to Year 12 Date: 6th March ⏰ Time: 9 am

Play is where curiosity begins, and at Curious Possums Playtime, every moment is an opportunity to explore, create, and connect. After two fantastic sessions, we’re excited to invite families to our next Rainbow-themed playtime at AISB Soi 20 Campus on Saturday, 1st March 2025. This session is all about colour, creativity, and discovery as we bring a Rainbow of Fun to life. From music and movement to science, sensory play, and arts and crafts, this is a space where children can play, explore, and grow—while parents enjoy meaningful moments alongside them. Event Details 📍 Location: AISB Soi 20 Campus 📅 Date: Saturday, 1st March 2025 ⏰ Time: 10:30 AM – 12:15 PM 💰 Registration Fee: 800 Baht Limited Spaces Available!  Come and Play with Us We can’t wait to welcome you and your little ones for another morning of fun, laughter, and discovery. Whether it’s your first playgroup with us or you’re returning for more, this will be a magical experience for all. This event is open to both AISB and non-AISB students. This fun and engaging session will be led by a certified AISB Early Years teacher. Plus, snacks will be provided. Please note: One caregiver per child is required, and caregivers must stay throughout the session.

AISB Secondary students participated in the Model United Nations (MUN), an incredible platform for learning about global diplomacy, leadership, and critical thinking. Model United Nations (MUN) is an educational simulation of the United Nations where students role-play as diplomats representing various countries to debate and negotiate global issues. It engages hundreds of thousands of students annually, helping them understand the principles and functioning of the UN. The goal of MUN is to provide an interactive educational experience that enhances public speaking, critical thinking, negotiation, and leadership skills while fostering a better understanding of international relations and diplomacy. It aims to create informed global citizens who comprehend the impact of national decisions on regional and global politics.  The conference proved to be an exceptional success for our students, who not only showcased their skills but also achieved notable recognition, reflecting the academic excellence and leadership that define AISB. Outstanding Achievements AISB's first MUN conference was very successful. All of the students did quite well and we even won some awards. Chloe in Y9 Litchfield and Samridh in Y10 Tarra Bulga were awarded Best Position Paper  for their respective committees. Additionally, Grace in Y9 Maria was recognized on the event's Instagram page for her standout performance, highlighting the calibre of AISB’s representatives. Student Reflection - Samridh, Y10 Tarra Bulga Participating in Model United Nations (MUN) was an incredibly fun opportunity that gave me valuable experience and a deeper understanding of the United Nations and diplomatic relations of states. It was my first-time and I represented France in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) which I first thought to be difficult but I was really excited. From the moment we began the session, the formal atmosphere was both exciting and overwhelming as I initially felt nervous and underprepared, as time passed by I got more confident and comfortable which makes me look forward to my next MUN conference. As the delegate of France, I got a chance to interact with other states on significant global issues including nuclear proliferation and cybersecurity threats. This broadened my knowledge on other states’ stances and actions and allowed me to understand the complexity of this conference due to numerous views that have to be considered during the decision-making and resolution drafting process. I was also able to meet many new people and make new friends through this conference. Drafting and debating resolutions with other delegates was quite challenging but also very interesting. Through it, I understood the difficulty of getting international cooperation and maintaining peace and security in a world with diverse and conflicting stances. There were many people who excelled in many aspects and were better than me which made me and my competitiveness feel full of enthusiasm and energy. I particularly enjoyed debating the most as making strong arguments quickly and effectively under time pressure was constantly improving my skills. The more I participated in every discussion, the better my ability to think and formulate arguments got. The experience also made me realise the importance of finding common ground and the chaos in attempting to find it. One of the best moments for me was winning the Best Position Paper award as it felt like quite an achievement for my first-time in MUN. However, I wanted to win the Best Delegate award. But, I realised through this conference the aspects that I need to improve such as my quality of speech and my public speaking skills which I believe can be improved through practice and confidence. Next time, getting the Best Delegate award wouldn't be a difficult challenge. Overall, my first MUN experience was really wonderful and fun. It improved many of my skills and was really impactful. I already look forward to my next conference for more challenges and opportunities like this. We are incredibly proud of our students for their accomplishments and the dedication they demonstrated in representing AISB on such a prestigious platform. Through their interactions with peers from diverse backgrounds, they developed essential skills that will shape them as future global leaders. This event is a stepping stone toward even greater opportunities, and we are excited to support our students in their future MUN journeys and beyond. AISB Representatives: Jichan Eito Daniel Chinmaya Samridh Kaushik Jessica Chloe Riko Chommanaad Sora Bhunnada Prisha Grace Arissa Shiue-Ruei Kilana Teachers: Tom G., Dayne, Layla

We invite you and your little ones to join us for Curious Possums Playtime at our Early Years campus. This special monthly event is designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young minds through playful learning. This month’s theme, Under the Sea, will be packed with ocean-inspired activities, sensory play, and exploration. Come join us for a morning of connection, play, and adventure. This event is open to both AISB and non-AISB students. This fun and engaging session will be led by a certified AISB Early Years teacher. Plus, snacks will be provided. Please note: One caregiver per child is required, and caregivers must stay throughout the session.

We are incredibly proud to celebrate the achievements of our exceptional students, Eito and Sora, who have been honoured with the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Award (OCLA) for High Achievement in Cambridge International AS Level Japanese Language. This award reflects their unwavering dedication and countless hours of effort, showcasing their passion for learning and commitment to excellence. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to their teacher, Ms. Mami, for her invaluable guidance and support throughout their journey. A special thank you also goes out to our AISB community for fostering an environment that empowers students to reach their fullest potential. Eito and Sora, you’ve not only made AISB proud but have also set an inspiring example for all of us. Congratulations on this remarkable accomplishment.  #CambridgeLearners #CambridgeSchools

This week, our Foundation students kicked off the school’s Midyear Concerts with their highly anticipated performance of The Animals' Christmas Tree . Through music, dance, and teamwork, our young learners showcased their incredible talents. Music Ensemble with Ms Ann Foundation Dingoes: Surf’s Up Foundation Wallabies: Take it High Foundation Potoroos: Dance Tango Foundation Koalas: Kinderbeat Gang Class Performances Foundation Koalas - On a Wintery Night Foundation Wallabies - Goodnight My Friend Foundation Potoroos - Merryville Carol Foundation Dingoes - On a Wintery Night Group Performances Light the Lights – Dingoes & Koalas On a Wintery Night [Reprise] – Wallabies & Potoroos A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated Foundation teachers—Ms Susan, Ms Stephanie, Ms Hannah, Ms Emma, and Ms Ann (Music teacher)—for their tireless efforts in bringing this beautiful day to life. The children’s enthusiasm and joy were a true reflection of their hard work and care. To the families who joined us, your support means the world to us. You helped make this event even more memorable, and we’re grateful for the joy you brought to the day. We couldn’t be more proud of our Foundation students. Their bright smiles, infectious energy, and sense of wonder remind us all of the magic of this season. We look forward to seeing many more wonderful performances in the future.

We’re excited to launch Curious Possums Playtime —a brand-new program for our Soi 20 Early Years campus. The sessions will be led by AISB certified Early Years teachers, who have carefully designed the program to include a variety of activities both indoors and outdoors. From music and rhythm, science, creative exploration, and outdoor adventures, there’s something for every curious little mind to enjoy. What You Need to Know Date:  Saturday, 7th December (First Session) Time:  10:30 AM – 12:15 PM Location:  AISB Soi 20 Campus Fee:  800 THB per session The first session will focus on building connections and creating a welcoming space for families to spend time with their children while they explore and play. These sessions are designed to run monthly, giving our community something to look forward to regularly. Why Join? Curious Possums Playtime is perfect for families looking for meaningful ways to engage with their children. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly space where children can explore new activities, make friends, and build confidence. For parents, it’s also a chance to connect with other families and enjoy the shared experience of watching your children grow and thrive. How to Register Spots are limited, so we encourage families to sign up early to secure their place. Keep an eye out for updates and reminders in the coming weeks. Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf3pu8mLcA_WF1SdaBlZfuOmlvTQ3KcyWr09CYJESSbgq_ZgA/viewform We can’t wait to see you and your little ones at our very first Curious Possums Playtime !

Students from Sacred Heart School Geeveston, Tasmania, and the Australian International School Bangkok (AISB) will compete in a groundbreaking online chess tournament on  Wednesday, 20th November 2024 at 12:30 pm AEDT (8:30am Bangkok time). The event bridges over 7,500 kilometres, connecting young chess players through digital technology. The match unites two contrasting worlds: AISB's bustling Southeast Asian metropolis of 15 million people and Sacred Heart's serene setting in Tasmania's Huon Valley, a region known for its apple orchards and pristine wilderness. While their environments differ dramatically, both schools follow the Australian curriculum and share a strong chess culture fostered by dedicated teachers who recognise the game's educational value. "Chess is much more than just a game – it's a powerful educational tool that transforms how our students think and learn," says Jacob Wootten from Sacred Heart. "When children engage with chess, they develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that directly translate to improved performance in subjects like Mathematics. We've seen firsthand how it builds patience, resilience, and memory while teaching students to plan ahead and consider consequences." Sacred Heart recently celebrated its first annual 'Chess Olympics,' which saw 45 students compete across different year levels. The term-long competition combined learning with friendly rivalry, showcasing both strategic thinking and sportsmanship, with strong community support from over 100 spectators at the finals. At AISB, the chess program has flourished since the establishment of its first Chess Club in 2010. Under the guidance of John Chambers, the school implemented a Chess Ladder system to encourage friendly competition. AISB's commitment to chess has led to numerous achievements, including a third-place division finish at the prestigious Harrow International School tournament in 2012, competing against 300 players from across Southeast Asia. The school's 'Chess Player of the Month' competition, initiated in 2015, has become a cornerstone of AISB's chess culture. Held on the last Saturday of each month, it regularly attracts 30-40 participants and has inspired students to compete in tournaments throughout Bangkok. Each school will field a team of 10 players, including Charlie Waites, a former AISB student who now attends Sacred Heart. The tournament will follow standard international chess rules, and will be live-streamed to both school communities. "This international chess match represents more than just competition – it's an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning," says John Chambers, AISB Chess Coordinator . "Through chess, we're building bridges between rural Tasmania and urban Bangkok, showing our students that they're part of a global community." The public can follow the tournament online through AISB’s social media channel, https://www.instagram.com/australianisb/?hl=en . Results will be announced immediately following the completion of all matches, expected around 2:00pm AEDT. Available for interview: ● Jacob Wootten, Sacred Heart School Geeveston ● John Chambers, Australian International School Bangkok (AISB) Media Contact: Samuel Cairnduff RESONATE Communications samuel.j.cairnduff@gmail.com   | 0401 396 755

We are excited to announce a fresh new look that reflects our school’s values, vision, and the vibrant international community we are proud to serve. This rebrand represents not only an update to our logo and visual identity but also a renewed commitment to providing an exceptional education for AISB families. We understand that changes like these may raise questions, and we want to make this transition as smooth and transparent as possible. Below, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions to help you and your family feel fully informed and engaged with this new chapter of AISB. Frequently Asked Questions: When will the new brand and logo come into effect? As of 1st November, we will commence our transition period to adopt our new brand and logo. We will start with updating our marketing materials and commence processing future orders from our suppliers using the new logo. Over the next 12-18 months, we will transition school assets to the new logo.  Why did we change the school logo? As AISB has grown and evolved over the past two decades, it became essential for our brand to reflect our forward-looking vision while honoring our heritage. The new logo embodies our modern approach to education, symbolising the core values that will guide us into the future. This change is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence, while still celebrating the strong connection between our Australian and Thai roots. You can read more about our logo design here .   What will this mean for school uniforms? We will process a new order for uniforms with the updated logo for the new academic year (Term 1 2025) or when we run out of stock for our current uniform inventory. Students will be permitted to continue wearing uniforms with our legacy logo until they are required to change uniforms as per their year level (e.g when students grow out of current uniforms or progress into future year groups etc).  What do I need to do?  No action is required from our parents or students. There will be minimal impact and disruption to your child’s day-to-day school experience. Over the next 12-18 months you may notice minor changes to our signage, digital communications and marketing/communications materials. How can I share my thoughts or ask more questions about the rebrand and logo? We'd love to hear from you! Please send us your feedback via email at: enquiries@australianisb.ac.th

Our updated AISB logo seamlessly bridges the legacy of our original branding with a modern, forward-looking design. The new logo reflects both the strength of our history and our vision for the future, highlighting AISB’s commitment to honoring our heritage while inspiring growth, innovation, and connection within our community. Why did we change the school logo and what does it symbolise? As AISB has grown and evolved over the past two decades, it became essential for our brand to reflect our forward-looking vision while honoring our heritage. The new logo embodies our modern approach to education, symbolising the core values that will guide us into the future. This change is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence, while still celebrating the strong connection between our Australian and Thai roots. Book Icon: The refreshed book icon evokes the Sydney Opera House, honoring our Australian heritage, while also resembling a blooming lotus flower, a symbol of our deep connection to Thai culture. Southern Cross Stars: The Southern Cross constellation symbolises our school’s role as a guiding light, helping students navigate the world and reach their own North Star, wherever life may take them. Shield and Book Breaking Bounds The shield represents the support and guidance we provide our students, while the book breaking through its bounds signifies the limitless opportunities we offer, empowering students to grow beyond conformity and become leaders. A journey through knowledge where students become the bright stars of the future. Conclusion: Together, these elements embody our mission at AISB: to foster a dynamic, inclusive environment where students can explore, excel, and find their place in an interconnected world. Our new logo is more than a visual update—it’s a celebration of our school’s heritage, values, and aspirations for the future. As we continue to support our students on their journeys, this fresh identity serves as a reminder of the boundless potential that lies ahead for each of them. Thank you for being a part of this exciting new chapter with us. For additional information about our new logo and brand refresh, please view our FAQs here .