bright kids - 3 november 2015

7/23/2019 Bright Kids - 3 November 2015

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THE STAR, TUESDAY 3 NOVEMBER 2015

special

Educationchoice opens

worlds


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bright kidsTHE STAR,

TUESDAY 3 NOVEMBER 2015

Global options at homeBy THERESA BELLE

WITH the growth of internationalschools in Malaysia, we also see avariety of curricula that offerspecialised approaches toeducation.

These programmes are oftenclosely structured to thecurriculum in the country of

origin for example, Britishschools offer the British NationalCurriculum and Americanschools offer the Americansyllabus.

The Australian InternationalSchool Malaysia (AISM) andSunway International School(SIS) are each one-of-a-kind asthey are sole local institutions

offering the Australian andCanadian syallabi respectively.

A relative newcomer in theinternational educationlandscape is the Islamic school these schools offer a uniquealternative to Malaysians, anation that is largely Muslim.

There has been a visibleincrease in schools offering the

International Baccalaureate (IB)diploma programme too, while anumber of international schoolshere have begun offering theentire IB programme fromprimary to diploma level.

These programmes are eachclosely monitored by theiraccreditation awarding orregulatory bodies, and most

schools have their accreditationrenewed annually to ensure theymaintain high internationaleducational provision standards.

Here is a breakdown of theinternational curricula availablein Malaysia, with educationalproviders weighing in on variousaspects of implementation,structure and accreditation:

The NationalCurriculum is applied

in all state schools acrossEngland, Wales and Northern Ireland and

is adapted into an international version inBritish schools all around the world.

The majority of international schools inMalaysia offer the British curriculum,which is known for its global recognitionand acceptance.

The curriculum for children aged five to16 is divided into four key stages Years 1to 2, 3 to 6, 7 to 9 and 10 to 11.

Core subjects such as English,mathematics and science are studied at allstages, and are supplemented by optionalsubjects ranging from languages tocomputing.

After the International GeneralCertificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)examinations (GCSE within the UK), whichmark the end of Key Stage 4, studentstypically enter Sixth Form and begin

preparing for their chosen A-Levels units.According to Ashley Cornfoot, acting

head of primary at Garden InternationalSchool (GIS), using the English NationalCurriculum as a foundation has allowedthe school to develop a relevant andmeaningful context for learning based onan established and rigorous set ofstandards that is measurable andvalidated.

GIS is accredited by the Council ofInternational Schools and the WesternAssociation of Schools and Colleges, bothglobal accrediting bodies. This means thattheir assessments and examinations aremarked externally against the standardsset by UK boards.

The context for learning in thecurriculum has been changed to represent

the schools location in Malaysia andSouth-East Asia, and to reflect theinternational community within theschool, says Cornfoot.

He says that the curriculum also usesuniversally significant themes that areessential to the 21st century such asclimate change, social justice andsustainability.

SunwayInternational School

(SIS) offers the Ontario curriculumfrom Grades 7 to 11 with the optionfor students to continue with theOntario Grade 12 (known as theCanadian InternationalMatriculation programme inSunway College), making it one ofonly 19 institutions worldwidequalified to grant the well-recognised Ontario SecondarySchool Diploma.

It comes under the purview of theOntario Ministry of Education, andmust therefore follow curriculum

policies to maintain annualaccreditation.According to principal of SIS John

Mackle, these efforts place the schoolat the forefront of global education.

In terms of international testing,student results in reading, scienceand mathematics based on theProgramme for International

Student Assessment show Ontarioconsistently ranking as the topeducation system among English-speaking countries worldwide, hesays.

Students are assessed using a70-30 distribution: 70% of their finalgrade is determined by workcompleted during the course, while30% is determined by finalevaluation.

This provides a balance in gauginglearning outcomes, keepingassessment relevant and current.

Mackle goes on to explain thatstudents focus on six skill areas that,

when combined with academicexcellence, provide the righteducational mix for future leaders.

These skill areas are criticalthinking and problem-solving,effective communication,collaboration, citizenship, charactereducation, and creativity andimagination.

Education in theUnited States isdivided into three

levels: elementary school, middle or

junior high school and high school.Students graduate with a High SchoolDiploma upon successful completionof Grade 12.

This education model focuses on thedevelopment of self for the realisationof goals and betterment ofcommunities, and has been adaptedby Mont Kiara International Schooland International School of KualaLumpur (ISKL) in Kuala Lumpur, andRaffles American School (RAS) inIskandar Malaysia through theiroffering of the American curriculum.

Kerstin Mockrish, admissionsdirector and registrar of RAS, says thatthe curriculum is modified for the hostcountry through several teachingmethods and subject matter.

We provide opportunity forstudents to work in both metric andimperial measurement systems, andour resources have strong emphasison Asian folktales, heroes, importantpublic figures and historical events,he says.

Mockrish explains that educatorsobserve the outcome-based educationapproach through the avenues ofproblem-solving and thinking skills,communication skills, research andorganisation skills as well asinterpersonal skills.

RAS also offers the US College BoardAdvanced Placement (AP) Program,allowing students to earn collegecredit within their final two years ofhigh school. AP test scores can be used

for admission, credit and placement inmore than 600 universities worldwide.The programme at RAS is accredited

by the Western Association of Schoolsand Colleges, which affords the schoolinternal authority to promote studentswithout the need of an externalexamination.

British Australian

Canadian

American

> SEE PAGE 4

The AustralianInternational School

Malaysia (AISM) is thefirst school to offer a complete

Australian educational experiencehere, from preschool to pre-university level.

It incorporates the AustralianEarly Years Learning Frameworkand the Reggio Emilia approach inpreschool education, and follows theAustralian National Curriculumfrom foundation to Year 10.

In Years 11 and 12, students areoffered the highly regarded NewSouth Wales Higher SchoolCertificate, which is recognised bymore than 200 universities aroundthe world and thus opens manydoors for AISM graduates.

According to principalDr Deborah Priest, AISM is registeredand accredited to deliver theAustralian Curriculum with the

Board of Studies, Teaching andEducational Standards New SouthWales. This standard is observed inNew South Wales, Australia.

Besides highly individualisedlearning, students are also supportedto surpass their learning goals theAustralian curriculum caters forstudents of all ages and abilities,including children with special gifts,talents and learning needs, says DrPriest.

She says this curriculumallows students to develop in-depthunderstanding in specialist subjectsin the senior years of schooling.


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THE STAR,TUESDAY 3 NOVEMBER 2015

bright kids 3

UCSI International School students are exposed to several activities beyondthe classroom.

Success in a changing worldIT is important to understand therole of school in the developmentof a child. School provides astructured environment foreducation and promotes a childsmental and psychological growth.

Although academics areimportant, social skills are key to abalanced education.

Gone are the days where schoolis just a place where children gainknowledge.

UCSI International School takesthe all-round development ofchildren seriously, understandingthat each child is unique and hasdifferent needs.

It believes that school can

develop a child into a smart,confident and respectful adult.

While the schools firstresponsibility to its students maybe academics, that is not all.

Today, instead of just teachingthe alphabet and numbers, asignificant amount of schoolworkthroughout students education isdedicated to helping them becomeexpert problem solvers andsolution seekers, skills that willcome in handy throughout theirlife.

They should have the ability toanalyse a situation, propose asolution and, should that solution

not work, evaluate and try again.A straight-A student without

social skills will not make itthrough the first job interview.

Therefore, school plays animportant role in helping childrenlearn to interact positively withtheir peers and teachers.

School is where they learnabout healthy relationship skillsand develop them further throughinteractions and collaborations,

both in and outside the classroom.UCSI International School

understands the role of school indeveloping the whole child. Itunderstands that each child isunique and that one method maynot work for all.

As the world we live in changes,children need skills that will helpthem navigate. Teachers in schoolplay a major role in this journeythat children undertake.

UCSI International Schoolteachers understand the need tohelp children exercise theirmemory so that they are able toremember conversations andprocess instructions to makedecisions.

Students are encouraged to usetheir prior knowledge as buildingblocks. They are challenged to takerisks in the safe environment oftheir classrooms and school as wellas taught to inquire andinvestigate.

Through school, studentscommunicate, collaborate withtheir peers and understand thatthey can achieve more if they

work together. In the process,students develop tolerance and aglobal mindset.

UCSI International Schoolprovides a structured settingwhere children can learn aboutrules and regulations as well ashow to behave positively in groupsettings. Students also pick upacademic knowledge needed forthe future.

The school understands thatcharacter building is an essentialcomplement to academicachievement.

Focus is placed on helpingchildren learn about compassion,

respect, empathy and integrity.UCSI International School

introduces students to awide range of opportunities,nationalities, cultures andtraditions, exposing them todifferent viewpoints of theworld around them so that theyare able to become global citizens.

Field trips and interactiveprojects allow children to trynew things, while differentsubjects in school give thema taste of what possibly awaitsthem in the future.

UCSI International Schoolbelieves that success in lifeis more than just gaining

knowledge, as life is aboutthe application of skills.

In this day, education should begeared towards ensuring that thestudents can transition to the realworld with minimum stress andadjustment.

As human rights activist MartinLuther King III has said, Thefuture belongs to those who areeducated and prepared to meet thechallenges and opportunities oftomorrow.

nFor more information, visitwww.ucsiinternationalschool.edu.my


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bright kidsTHE STAR,TUESDAY 3 NOVEMBER 2015

Fosterholisticgrowth

SINCE its inception more than 20 years ago,Q-dees has grown into one of the foremostauthorities in early childhood education inMalaysia.

With more than 150 centres nationwide,

it has successfully prepared more than200,000 students for private, national andinternational schools.

Q-dees preschool programmes areacclaimed for being fun and holistic,empowering children with the foundationthey need to exponentially grow from.

The exclusive interactive multimedia andmaterials are meticulously integrated toensure children are constantly engaged.

Q-dees language programmes are gearedto enable children to master English, BahasaMalaysia and Mandarin. Taught thematicallyand phonetically, the lessons expand theirvocabulary while also fostering correctcontextual usage of the language.

Encompassing the essential skills ofreading, writing, listening and speaking, theQ-dees approach nurtures the mastery of

subject matter beyond students age so thatthey can confidently express themselvesin these languages regardless of theirenvironment.

At Q-dees, seemingly complex mathematicsconcepts are made simple for children tounderstand. Using Hands-on Mind-onmethodology alongside Maths Board,children explore concepts as they learn tocount efficiently and think logically.

The science programme has been designedto make science simple and stimulating to

learn. The lessons encourage hands-onparticipation in fun and exciting experimentsto ignite childrens curiosity in how the worldaround them works.

Q-dees arts and craft programme develops

childrens creativity and imagination intandem with the daily theme learnt.

In the programme, children are taughta wide range of techniques such asperspective drawing, rendering techniquesand three-dimensional modelling. These helpto strengthen their photographic memory aswell as logical and reasoning skills.

At Q-dees, the physical well-being ofchildren is as important as their intellectualdevelopment.

Through the Gymflex programme, childrenlearn about teamwork, improve their bodycoordination and further develop their fineand gross motor skills through fun exercises,physical activities and team games.

In line with Q-dees ethos towards holisticdevelopment, the Q-dees Love to Lifeprogramme ensures that its curricula are

infused with good values that teach childrenhow to love and care for others, beresponsible individuals and be mindful ofpreserving the environment.

Q-dees has been awarded The BestPreschool Brand for the past sevenconsecutive years by the BrandLaureateand received recognition through theInnovation and Brand Excellence by Smera.

nFor more information, call 1700 815 077or visit www.q-dees.com

Finding the best ft

Children learn essential language skills at Q-dees.

This programme sets thebenchmark for quality internationaleducation, encouraging both personaland academic achievement.

Its stages are the Primary YearsProgramme (PYP) for three- to12-year-olds, Middle YearsProgramme (MYP) for 11- to 16-year-olds and Diploma Programme (IBDP)for 16- to 19-year-olds.

The MYP builds on the strongacademic, social and emotionalfoundation set by the PYP. Each haslearning areas from which studentsselect subjects that fit the overall

educational framework.The IBDP is more widely offered by

schools here and is lauded asa solid, all-encompassing pre-university qualification that grantsentry to universities worldwide.

Only IB World Schools areauthorised to offer the entire IBcurriculum, and this authorisationprocess typically takes two tothree years. Verification visitsto the school and professionaldevelopment workshops for itseductors are important parts of theprocess.

The International School of KualaLumpur (ISKL) was one of the firstschools to offer the IBDP here. Today,several schools offer IBDP alongsideinternational curricula, including SriKDU International School. As an IBWorld School, UCSI InternationalSchool Springhill offers the full IBcurriculum.

The stringent IB demands providethe opportunity for schools tostrengthen their offering accordingto ISKLs curriculum director RamiMadani, the curriculum greatlybenefits from having skilled teachers

who take part in its development andimplementation.

Many of our teachers areworkshop leaders for the IBorganisation, while others areexaminers or conduct schoolaccreditation visits, he says.

Besides IB authorisation, ISKL isalso accredited by the Council ofInternational Schools and the WesternAssociation of Schools and Colleges.The school offers an internationalcurriculum based on Americanstandards, leading up to IBDP or APfor entry into American universities.

Islamic international schools oftenoffer an international British-basedcurriculum with emphasis on Islamiccomponents, including Arabic orQuran studies.

These often go hand-in-hand as anunderstanding of Arabic is beneficial

in Quran studies.There is also the Islamic

Primary Education curriculum, acomprehensive module for Islamicstudies offered in Idrissi InternationalPrimary School and GreenviewIslamic School.

There are alsoschools that offer the full,authentic national curriculumdesigned for those whointend to further theirstudies or pursuecareers in the countryof origin.

The Global IndianInternational School, The JapaneseSchool of Kuala Lumpur, GermanSchool Kuala Lumpur (DeutscheSchule Kuala Lumpur) and FrenchSchool of Kuala Lumpur (LyceeFrancais de Kuala Lumpur) offer

the national curriculum of India,Japan, Germany and Francerespectively, which can be

> FROM PAGE 2

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Islamic

National

especially beneficial to childrenof expatriates who hope to returnhome with their families.

These schools are closely tiedto their national accreditationand governing bodies.

> See page 12for what tolook for in aninternationalcurriculum.


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HAS your child been scratchinghis or her head excessively? Theitchiness might be caused by headlice, a common issue amongschoolchildren.

Lice are tiny, wingless insectsthat can live on human hairs andfeed on tiny amounts of bloodfrom the scalp.

They usually dwell closely to thescalp, at the bottom of the neckand behind the ears.

The eggs, called nits, are firmlyattached to the hair shaft and arevery small. They remain glued tohair strands long after thesuccessful removal of its adultcounterparts.

A head lice infestation hasnothing to do with poor hygiene.It can affect all types of hair,regardless of the length and itscondition.

Head lice in your childs hair

arent dangerous but theirinfestation is highly contagious.Lice bites can cause your childsscalp to itch and become inflamed.

Common products are easilyavailable from pharmacies orclinics to remove head lice andnits. Non-toxic remedies such asdimethicone are available butefficacy has been reported to beunsatisfying.

Products that are effective anduse natural products are the mainfocus in choosing a personal careproduct, considering the pollutedenvironment that we are alreadyliving in now.

Unlike harsh industrialchemicals, Vitamode Delice naturalhair wash is specifically formulatedto help kill hair lice and control nitinfestations.

Stemona root extract inVitamode Delice prevents eggsfrom hatching, which interruptsthe life cycle of hair lice, whilelemon peel oil powder helps insoothing and moisturising irritated

or sensitive scalp.Vitamode Delice is free of toxic

pesticides, malathion (maldison)and pyrethroids such aspermethrin, which have beenlinked to birth defects, cancer,immune system suppression,hormonal disruption, reproductiveproblems and genetic damage.

It is effective on first use (basedon the bioefficacy test performed

by the Department of MedicalScience, Ministry of Public Health,Thailand) and is suitable for allages.

To use, lather Vitamode Delicehair wash on wet hair andmassage lightly until saturated.

Cover hair with shower cap andleave hair wash on for 10 minutes.Rinse hair with water. To removedead lice and eggs/nits, use

Remove head lice

Vitamode Delice fine-toothed metallice comb, which is more effectivecompared to plastic combs.

Nits are most easily removed bycombing while the hair is slightly

damp. You may need a magnifyingglass and bright light.

Comb the entire head from thescalp to the tip of the hair at leasttwice and rinse out the comb oftenunder hot running water as yougo.

You may use Vitamode DeliceHair Wash three to five timesweekly to prevent recurrence.

This article is brought to you byVitamode.

nFor more information, call1300 800 228 or visitwww.medispec.com.my

Vitamode Delice iseffective and safe touse to help removehead lice.

Head lice in yourchilds hair arentdangerous but

their infestationis highlycontagious. Licebites can causeyour childsscalp to itchand becomeinfamed.


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Krista Capable Preschool Programmme offersholistic approach to learning.

Opportunities in sports

ORTS-BASED activities provideny positive opportunities forldren. However, they are ates questioned by parents.

While many parents believet participation in sports will

hance their childs schoolomplishments, some believet sports can get in the wayheir childs academicievement.

Whether sports help or distractdents from obtaining highievements depends on theent of childrens involvementd the type of experiences theyve.Taylors International SchoolS) runs a full academic physicalucation programme where everyd from Year 1 to Year 11 takest in a wide range of sports andivities such as athletics, football,ketball, benchball, badminton,leyball, rugby, netball, fitness

d gymnastics.These lessons teach students

basic skills to play the sport,prove their physical fitness asll as influence the developmentheir leadership, teamwork and

mmunication skills.These can develop their self-nfidence and self-esteem,ich will help in improvingir academic performance. A

althy body leads to a healthynd.Co-curricular activities also playequally important role inool. TIS offers a wide range ofivities from which students can

choose and play in game situations,which may lead to them joining theschools sports team.

At TIS Kuala Lumpur, the sportsteam is known as Taylors Thunder

and is a member of KLISS (KualaLumpur International SchoolSports).

Head of sport and physicaleducation Chris Ratcliffe stressesthe importance of school sport,saying, Here at TIS Kuala Lumpur,we have a comprehensive after-school sports programme, whichallows teams to play againststudents from other schools, testingthemselves in a more competitiveenvironment.

More than that, it allows thestudents to be a part of a team,playing to a common goal.

Students gain many different

skills from school sports-basedactivities.

These include communicationskills, leadership qualities andself-motivation, which are skills

that can be used outside thesports arena.

The schools core values ofRECIPE are an important aspect ofwhat students can take away fromphysical education:lRespect A word that is used

a lot in sport, students at TIS aretaught to respect each other, theiropponents and the officials.lExcellence Although

winning is what we all strive to do,the school nurtures each student toperform at his or her best.lCommunication Improving

how individuals talk to each otherand work together towards a

common goal.lIntegrity Applying

sportsmanship in all areas of play.lPassion Not going into

things half-heartedly, but trying

and giving their best.lEnjoyment Playing sports

with their friends can be some ofthe most enjoyable moments in achilds life.

Whether win, lose or draw, theschool makes sure that studentsenjoy the experience.

It is not uncommon to encounterparents who do not allow theirchild to play sports because theirchild has tuition classes to attendor an upcoming examination tostudy for.

Studies have shown that exerciseis an excellent way to relieve stress

in children, especially duringexamination periods.

Thirty minutes of exercise isbeneficial to the brain and hasmore benefits than an extra half

hour of revision.The secret is having a blend of

the two. Time management comesto the fore and a combination ofstudy and exercise, whetherrecreational or competitive, cancertainly benefit every child.

This balance is what TIS KualaLumpur strives to instil in eachchild.

nFor more information on theKL campus, call 03-9200 9898 ore-mail [email protected] the Puchong campus, call03-5879 5000 or [email protected]

A strong foundationCHILDREN in their early childhood needto be engaged in a nurturing way attheir appropriate levels to build a strongfoundation for their desired developmentalgrowth, be it physically, mentally, socially,emotionally, culturally or spiritually.

Many preschool educators and parentsmay try to plan and follow an inflexiblescheme of activities that is often toointimidating or results-focused for youngchildren.

These efforts are not fruitful if the correctfoundation is not laid from the start. One ofthe salient features of the Krista Capable

Preschool Programme is its engagement withyoung children of differing characters andattitudes at their appropriate developmentallevels and paces of learning.

The Krista Capable Preschool Programmeis run in all Krista centres throughout thenation.

The name Capable stands for child-centredlearning, acquisition of knowledge, practicalexperiences, assessment provision,benevolent inculcation, learn through playand exploratory endeavours.

This programme is an all-encompassingprogramme that guides children within thefour main segments individuality, effectiveacquisition of knowledge, character buildingand achieving competency as preparatorygroundwork for a successful lifelong learningprocess.

The holistic approach of the programmeserves to mould and nurture children tomature into balanced, resourceful, successfuland wonderful individuals while providingthem with beautiful and meaningfulchildhood experiences during theirpreschool years.

Lifes lessons and values are imparted tochildren through plenty of fun experientiallearning activities in a safe environmentconducive to learning, where every child isgiven the opportunity to develop holistically

and have memorable childhood experiences.Krista also believes that every child is

unique and takes care to provide the rightstimulus and environment to buildchildrens self-esteem and self-confidence,inculcate good values and discipline, andstimulate and sustain the childrens interestin learning new things about the worldaround them.

As a result, children develop thinking,cognitive, language, literacy and social skillsas well as other desirable and practical lifeskills.

This programme is carried out by Krista

teachers who are regularly trained andcertified.Since Krista opened its doors to young

children in early childhood years abouttwo decades ago, thousands of them havebenefited from the wonderful programmesand meaningful activities carried out atKrista centres throughout the nation.

nFor more information, call 03-2141 7575or e-mail [email protected] or visitwww.kristaschools.com

Taylors International School KualaLumpur provides students withsporting facilities to encouragehealthy involvement in sport.


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bright kids 7

Fun EnglishAS the long school holidays are almost here,Cambridge English For Life (CEFL) aims toinspire and encourage your childs creativespirit to learn English the fun way.

There are five holiday programmesavailable at CEFL centres nationwide thatcover reading, writing, speech and drama:lThe Little Phonics ExplorerThe programme is an introductory tool for

learning phonics and early writing skills.Designed for four- to six-year-olds, theprogramme provides hands-on learning withfun activities such as flour writing, rainbowwriting and card games.lInteractive ReadingDrawing inspiration from classic childrens

titles, each level equips learners with theskills to identify the cross-curricularrelevance implicit in literature. Suitable for

children aged six to 12, students experienceand practise the English language throughcomprehension activities, role-plays,vocabulary games, writing activities, and avariety of games, crafts and experiments.lSpeech and DramaDesigned for seven- to 12-year-olds, this

programme focuses on the process oflearning creative drama skills rather thanon producing perfect performances. Theprogramme will include activities such asmiming, reading, improvisations and usingvoices to bring characters to life.lIntensive English Programme

(Elementary and Pre-Intermediate)The programme is designed to prepare

students for academic studies and

professional work in English. It is flexible,offering learners a choice of modules andcourse durations.

Each module uses real-life topics related tojobs, sports and travel to gain the learnersinterest and focus on different skill areas oflanguage development.

Learners also have the option to select theIntegrated Skills Programme, which letschildren practise their listening, speaking,reading and writing skills.lPublic SpeakingSuitable for children aged 12 to 18, the

programme introduces and perfects theskills required for effective public speakingthrough the use of audio and video materialscombined with interactive group work.

Students will have the opportunity tolearn and practise public speaking elements

required in professional and academicsettings.

nFor more information, call 03-7883 0912or visit www.cambridgeforlife.org

Students at CEFL experience and practise theEnglish language through fun activities.

Become money smartMONEY does not grow on trees is one themost frequent pieces of advice parents giveto their children.

That phrase has stood the test of time being passed on from our parents parents tous and then onto our children meant tocreate awareness that mindlessly spendingmoney can be dangerous.

However, repeating this phrasecontinuously to children is not enough to

make them financially savvy.Children go to school and study many

subjects such as mathematics, history,languages, but money is not one of themdespite it being a big part of our lives.

The lack of education in money andfinances creates a negative impact onchildrens future as not knowing how tohandle money can easily lead to baddecisions and negatively influencechildrens view about money.

Parents invest time and effort largely ineducating children to be respectful, haveproper manners and helping them obtainsocial skills.

However, they do not necessarily put inthe same effort when it comes to teaching

money literacy to children.Since money is a big part of our lives, the

knowledge of how to manage it is a great lifeskill that children will find useful.

This is where MoneyTree programmes canhelp. They give children a healthy idea ofwhat money is, how to obtain it, spend andsave and in overall help make sure kids areset to obtain financial success.

MoneyTree has programmes designed

for different age groups MoneyTree BasicAcademy (six to eight years old), MoneyTreeJunior Academy (nine to 12 years old) andMoneyTree Apprentice Academy (13 to 17years old).

Being the leading financial literacyprovider in this region, MoneyTreeprogrammes have received endorsementand certification from Singapore, Malaysiaand the United States.

Enrol your child in MoneyTree holidayworkshops or MoneyTree Academyprogrammes and discover the incredibleimpact of having strong financial literacy.

nFor more information, call 03-7725 0300or visitwww.moneytree.asia

Financialliteracy is

an importantpractical skillthat childrenwill find usefulin life.


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A rewardingeducation

s estimated that more than one billionople around the world rely on Australianentions such as penicillin and black boxplane flight recorders in their everyday(source: www.austrade.gov.au).

The country also boasts leaders in theiness world such as Rupert Murdoch anda Rinehart who are both listed inForbestune 500, in the sporting world such asmpic gold medallists Ian Thorpe andhy Freeman, in the entertainmentustry such as Hugh Jackman, Nicoleman and Kylie Minogue as well as top

universities of the world, includingAustralian National University (ANU)being in the top 20.

The unique Australianeducation system

Most of these individuals would haveundergone the Australian education system,which differs from other curricula byhaving a big emphasis on building lifeskills such as resilience, outstandingcommunication, creativity, collaboration

Student-centred learningprovides opportunities topractise life skills that are

important for future careers.

and critical thinking skills, all of which arevital to achieve success in life.

Australia provides high-quality, high-equity curriculum, where students aregiven opportunities to explore their areasof interest and expertise, extend theirknowledge and understanding and excel inan internationally recognised Higher SchoolCertificate (HSC), which provides directpathways to universities in Australia and isaccepted by top universities around theworld.

The Australian curriculum teachesstudents to think and learn for themselves.Australian International School Malaysia(AISM) teachers adopt the HarvardGraduate School of Educations Project Zeromethod of teaching a range of thinkingroutines during lessons.

These routines aim to support childrensdevelopment to become self-directed

learners and typically consist of a seriesof questions to lead students through thesteps of critical thinking and help themunderstand idea formations.

AISM practises the Visible Learningteaching pedagogy, which ensures theprogress of every child.

The Visible Learning teaching pedagogycomes from Prof John Hattiesgroundbreaking research and analysis of800 educational studies. In this style ofteaching, AISM teachers see learningthrough the eyes of students and help themto become their own teachers.

Students are taught to think about theirlearning, how they can improve, seekfeedback from teachers and fellow students,ask questions, join in discussions and listento other peoples ideas.

Varied testing methods

In regards to assessments, 50% of theoverall final grade at the HSC level comesfrom a final examination that is set andmarked in Australia and the other 50%comes from school-based assignments,examinations and projects undertakenthroughout the year.

This form of assessment provides everystudent the opportunity to maximise their

grades and explore a range of internationaltertiary pathways.

In essence, the Australian curriculumconcerns preparing each child to be acompetent, well-functioning andcommunication-savvy adult as well aspreparing them to take up their place intertiary studies or the workplace.

Each subject develops skills that areimportant for higher learning and fostersthe development of life skills, behavioursand dispositions that help students navigatetheir way in a dynamic world.

The increasingly specialised knowledgeand skills developed progressively in eachof the learning areas are recognised asbeing excellent foundations for the range oftertiary pathways available in Australianand international universities.

This is the education system that hashelped mould and shape many Australian

global leaders who are creating greatimpact in our globalised world today.

This is why the Australian education isso highly regarded across the world.

As a parent, you would want to providethe best education for your children. Givethem nothing less than a well-roundedAustralian education to set them up forsuccess in life.

AISM is hosting its Open Week fromNov 23 to 28 from 10am to 1pm wherevisitors can learn from the managementteam about how the Australian curriculumcan meet your childs needs.

Various activities organised for parentsand children will be held during the OpenWeek, including trial classes, scienceexperiments, Lego construction sessions, artexploration, storytelling and student

creative arts showcases.Visitors can also see classes in action andthe facilities during the school tours.

The AISM application fee is waivedduring this period only and a specialpromotion (waiver of 50% on admissionfee) is available for students enteringYear 11.

nFor more information, call 03-8949 5000or e-mail [email protected] or visitwww.aism.edu.my


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bright kids 9

The Englishlanguageprogrammesat LornaWhiston helpchildrenbecomefluent inexpressingtheirthoughts.

ADHD is not about a child simply notfollowing the rules.

Investin yourchildTHE more globalised the world is, themore important it becomes to be able tocommunicate globally.

Confidence in using the English languageis particularly crucial for lifelong success,

says Lorna Whiston, founder of the LornaWhiston group.

We offer a diverse range of Englishlanguage programmes to help studentsdevelop fluency in expressing their thoughtsand ideas.

Established in Singapore in 1980, LornaWhiston Sdn Bhd operates two languagecentres in Kuala Lumpur, serving studentsfrom four to 18 years old. The quality of itsEnglish Language programmes is unrivalled.

Teaching a language requires a multi-faceted approach so that students maintaintheir interest and motivation, explainsWhiston.

Our syllabus is designed specificallyfor Malaysian children, engaging them inlistening, speaking, reading and writingin English, she says, adding that the

programmes are updated regularly toensure that they remain fresh, exciting andrelevant.

Lorna Whistons programmes areapproved by the Education Ministry andinclude English language programmes forvarious levels and aptitudes. They alsoinclude classes in public speaking andspeech and drama.

The speech and drama as well aspublic speaking programmes buildstudents ability to express themselves

creatively and confidently.Weekly language classes build a solid

foundation in language and literacy skillsfor younger children. Meanwhile, olderstudents work towards a more accurate and

sophisticated use of the English language andare taught to express themselves confidentlythrough the written and spoken word.

Children aged four to six may also attendintensive classes five days a week to receivethe best start to their formal education.

At the heart of all Lorna Whistonslanguage programmes is its highly successfulreading programme, which producescompetent readers who have a lifelongpassion for reading. Parental support withreading at home is encouraged, especially inthe early years.

Lorna Whistons native-speaking teachersare chosen not only for their qualificationsand experience, but also for their warm andnurturing approach and their dedication tostudents progress.

Lessons are interactive and small class

sizes ensure that students receiveindividualised attention from the teacher anda personal approach to their development.

Each centre is fully equipped withmultimedia computers and interactive whiteboards. Moreover, a library of more than10,000 books ensures students are nevershort of a new book to read or a new worldto explore.

nFor more information,visit www.lornawhiston.com.my

Shiftingthe focusMANDYS son Jeremy (not their real names)had always been a handful. As a preschooler,he would tear through the house like atornado, shouting, roughhousing, andclimbing furniture.

He could not stay interested in any activityfor more than a few minutes and was beingdisruptive at school.

Concerned about his condition, Mandysought professional help at InternationalPsychology Centre, which diagnosedJeremys issue as the behavioural disorderAttention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

(ADHD).ChildPsych implemented the Behavioural

Therapy programme, tailored to Jeremysneeds. The programme required Mandy tolearn and observe the skills taught to Jeremyso that he could practise those skills at homeand school.

Before proceeding to the next session, areview would be carried out to understandJeremys progress especially in terms of hisbehaviour and attention span.

Psychonutritional therapy was also usedto treat the brains chemical imbalanceexperienced by Jeremy, as seen in hisbiochemical laboratory test(neurotransmitter test).

Jeremys low dopamine level was causinghis impulsive behaviours and this therapyused a series of supplements manufactured

with natural herbs.For example, one of the ingredients,

theanine, is found in green tea extract andwas able to help boost Jeremys dopaminelevel back to optimal functioning level.

After 12 sessions of a combined therapeuticprogramme, Jeremy was able to followinstructions not only at home but also inschool.

His school teachers have complimentedhis improvement and his attention spanimproved from five minutes toapproximately half an hour. Jeremy was

also able to focus and attend an entire classperiod without being disruptive during class.

Dr Edward Chan, principal consultant childpsychologist of ChildPsych, says, ADHD isnot plainly about disobeying rules but ratheran overwhelming flood of informationconstantly received by children. To treat it islike giving children a pair of glasses thatenable them to see properly again.

This article is brought to you byChildPsych, Centre for Children andAdolescence Psychology of InternationalPsychology Centres team of psychologist andpsychonutritional therapists.

nFor more information, call 03-2727 7437 ore-mail [email protected] orvisit www.psychology.com.my


10/24

0 bright kidsTHE STAR,


Learning for enjoymentAFTER spending a year working hard toscore their best in the final examinations,

many students are looking forward to theholidays in which they can kick back andhave fun.

However, there is always some catchingup to do when students return to schoolafter a long break. Morris Allen Englishbelieves learning should never end and,most importantly, should be fun.

For this reason, the Morris Allen EnglishHoliday Programme was developed. It offersa range of short courses that helps studentscontinue to develop their skills in English in afun and interactive learning environment.

The two-week holiday programme consistsof several nine-lesson short courses,which include fun learning activities thatreflect Morris Allen Englishs interactiveapproach.

The range of short courses focuses

on different English language skills.Back by popular demand, Morris AllenEnglish is offering the speech and dramacourse, where the focus is on speaking skillsand building personal confidence.

In this course, students get involved infun speaking and role-playing exercises,oral reading to entertain and speechpresentations with guidance from trainedteachers who are native English speakers.

Morris Allen English also has a range ofcourses that incorporates reading of good

childrens literature and development ofwriting skills.

These courses help students enjoy readingmore as they read and enjoy some greatbooks together.

Students will also grow in comprehensionand vocabulary skills as they participate ininteractive learning activities that aredesigned around these books.

Besides that, they will explore the writingstyles of the authors and how they can usesome of the techniques of successful authorsin their own writing.

As Morris Allen English understands thatlaying good foundations for learning Englishmust start early, it includes short coursesfor younger students in this holidayprogramme.

These include pre-nursery and phonicscourses that are fun, interactive andspecifically aimed at developing a love

for learning in younger children.At Morris Allen English, learning and funare combined so that learning does not haveto stop during the school holidays.

Keeping young brains active by takingpart in the Morris Allen English HolidayProgramme is a sure way for children tobuild stronger English skills for the startof their 2016 school year.

nFor more information, call 03-7610 9889or visit www.morrisallen-malaysia.com

With the guidanceof native English-speaking teachers,Morris AllenEnglish instils instudents a firmfoundation ofEnglish languageskills.

Sing-along nights are one of the many activities that keep boardersentertained.

Home away from home

UDENTS understand that livingay from home is an experiencey will have to face at some pointheir educational careerst is a time of discovery asdents learn to juggle their

urse load with domestic chores,ate their own personalctuary while sharing space with

angers, and struggle with theasional pangs of homesickness.

As home is where the heart is,nway International School (SIS)s in every effort to makedents feel that its boardingility SIS House is a home awaym home.IS House is aimed at evokingthe comforts of home andrturing an environmentnducive to intellectual pursuitsd fostering camaraderie.The five-storey SIS Houseidence features an expansive

ility equipped with servicesh as laundry, housekeeping andurity.

Boarders are presented withenities for their every need,luding air-conditioned twin-ring rooms, individual studyrels, personal wardrobes withurity boxes, multiple hot-waterwer and washroom cubicles.

Cable television, board games,erence books and novels, andh-speed Wi-Fi access in the SISuse Lounge, a common area forarders to relax and connect, helparders occupy their free timeductively.

sports competitions and visits tolocal attractions are also regularlyorganised.

These serve a secondary purposeof being a cultural orientation aswell, educating them of the richheritage and history of their hostcountry.

The organisational skills,independence and responsibilitythat SIS House boarders displaywhen they graduate are traits theyearn from living with others at theboarding facility.

The reward is seeing ourboarders form close-knit, caringand cohesive units built on afoundation of compromise, trust

and an ever-ready willingness tohelp, says Foo.

Boarding at SIS House is acomprehensive and life-changingexperience with many means todevelop and promote boardersacademic and personal growth.

The experience teaches boardersto cohabitate with peers fromdifferent walks of life and stand ontheir own two feet.

You can visit SIS during itsApplication Week from Nov 23 to28.

nFor more information,call 03-7491 8070.

SIS Houses distinctive feature isits committed full-time residentialteam that defines the residentialexperience at SIS House.

A live-in house master,supported by resident executives,oversees the students welfare,providing a high degree of pastoralcare to ensure boarders live ina harmonious and respectfulcommunity.

Round-the-clock security guardsand security cameras keep a

watchful eye over boarders safetyand contribute to maintainingdiscipline and order at SIS House.

At SIS House, boarders areassigned to shared units for areason we want these individualsfrom different backgrounds,nationalities and exposures todiscover and learn from eachothers experiences and cultures.

Our boarders return from theirclasses to a safe and invitingsanctuary where they can expect a

warm welcome and friendly faces,says SIS House master Foo LaiTuan.

Located within the schoolsground, the proximity ensuresboarders can securely andconveniently participate in nightstudy and extracurricular activitiesfor a comprehensive boardingexperience.

Night study is a critical featureto the boarding experience. Heldweekly, a teacher from the schoolsfaculty supervises preparatorysessions in the evenings andprovides academic guidance toboarders struggling with theircoursework.

Festive celebrations rank amongthe most anticipated activities inthe boarders calendars. TheRamadan breaking of fast andChinese Lunar New Year feastsare regular traditions that arecelebrated in wholehearted unity.

For a balanced experience,regular fun-filled days for sportsand games are held to encourageboarders to be physically activeand healthy, learn communicationskills, cultivate teamwork and havea respite from the pressures ofschool work.

External excursions such astrekking, watching international


11/24


bright kids 11

Local British option

THE high-calibre curriculumoffered under the NationalCurriculum for England atEpsom College in Malaysia(Epsom) is developed in linewith the college vision, which isto provide exceptional all-roundacademic and co-curricularopportunities as well as teachchildren to aim for excellenceand value both achievement andendeavour.

Taught in English by analmost exclusively UK-trainedstaff, students follow the EarlyYears Foundation Stage (EYFS)Curriculum, while those in thePrep School (ages 6 to 11) learnthe New English Curriculum.

Senior school students studyIGCSEs and A-Levels. Studentslearning English as anAdditional Language (EAL) aresupported with additional

classes or one-to-one tutorials.

Step by step

The curriculum at Epsomallows a developing focus onpersonal interests and strengthsas students progress. The EYFScurriculum adapted in the EarlyYears Programme provides agreat start for children, buildingskill, confidence and knowledge,while encouraging thedevelopment of creativity andpersonal values.

In pre-prep and prep school,the curriculum promotes fouraspects of achievement: oral andwritten knowledge, practical

application, development ofpersonal and social skills, andconfidence through self-discipline. These build on thevalues and lessons learnt inearly years education.

Students in Years 7 to 9study a broad and balancedcurriculum, which has a clearintrinsic worth of its own, whilealso building a strongfoundation for IGCSE study inYears 10 and 11.

Under the IGCSE curriculum,students are required to take on10 or more subjects seven coresubjects (English language,English literature, mathematics,biology, chemistry, physics and

one modern language), plusthree or four optional ones froma choice of 14 subjects coveringthe arts, humanities andlanguage.

The majority of students inthe Lower Sixth (Year 12) studyfour AS subjects and in theUpper Sixth (Year 13), studentscontinue with three or four oftheir subjects to A2 level.

Students have the option totake the Extended ProjectQualification (EPQ) and theyare also prepared for theInternational English LanguageTesting System (IELTS)examination.

Sixth Formers aspiring to

gain entry to Oxford,Cambridge or other eliteRussell Group UK universitiesare given additional tutorials,as are students preparing forspecific entry examinationpapers for medicine or law aswell as the American SAT.

The A-Levels programme isoffered as either a two-year oran 18-month (starting nextyear) course at Epsom,

designed to smoothen studentstransition to top universitiesworldwide. In addition, Years 9and 10 students are given careerguidance to help them considertheir options after school.

Opportunities abound

When Adrienne Kuster movedto Malaysia with her family, shehad already been studying theBritish curriculum since Year 5.She intends to attend universityin the United Kingdom.

Having lived in the UK, weknew of Epsom UKs reputationand were excited to have a

familiar school for Adrienne inMalaysia, says parent SuzanneKuster.

Adrienne enrolled in theLower Sixth last year as herparents wanted to provide her agreat education to prepare foruniversity. Adrienne plans tocombine her interests in sportsand business by pursuingBusiness Management in Sportsat university and greatly benefitsfrom and enjoys the emphasisgiven to sports at Epsom.

She has an excellentrelationship with the teachingstaff, who push her to do herbest. Besides her sportscoaching, Adrienne has also

taken up several opportunities toget involved in local charityprogrammes on top of extensiveco-curricular involvement, saysSuzanne.

Together, these activitiesprovide an avenue for socialdevelopment alongside academicexcellence.

Besides providing a soundeducational progression forchildren of expatriates, Epsomalso offers a unique experiencefor Malaysian students lookingto pursue university educationin the UK.

The British curriculum is alsowidely recognised around theworld, which opens up many

more doors for students with anEpsom education.

nFor more information, visitwww.epsomcollege.edu.my

An extensiveoffering ofsports andco-curricularactivitiesstrengthenstheeducationalexperience atEpsom,alongsidesolidcurriculum.

AdrienneKusterenjoystheemphasisgiven tosports atEpsom.


12/24



Considering a new schoolTH the Government stronglyking the expansion of private

d international educationaltitutions in the country, parentsw have a much wider range ofooling experience to choose fromtheir children.

As what is best for one child maybe the same for another, most

hese new schools focus onividual abilities and aims,rking closely with each child

build on their strengths.Your childs aspirations and

ievements should be themary points to consider whenking for the right school.

Many parents and children prefervate or international schoolinga variety of reasons, includingall-encompassing academic andcurricular approach, solidriculum and pedagogy, top-notchilities and an environment

nducive to overall development.

Here are a few things you shouldow about the private andernational school systems if youconsidering placing your child

one:lA wide range of academicogrammes Privately ownedd operated schools typically haveir own teaching curriculum, text

oks and manuals.Contrary to the public education

School Location

IB World Schools Location

Britishcurriculum

elc International College

Epsom College in Malaysia

UCSI International School

Garden International School

Marlborough CollegeMalaysia

Asia MetropolitanInternational School

Asia Pacific InternationalSchool

Austin Heights InternationalSchool

British International School

Sungai Buloh, Selangor

Bandar Enstek, NegriSembilan

Subang Jaya, Selangor

Kuala Lumpur

Nusajaya, Johor

Ipoh, Perak

Subang, Selangor

Johor Baru

Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Islamiccurriculum

Idrissi International PrimarySchool

Al-Noor International School

Baseerah InternationalSchool

International Islamic School

International Modern ArabicSchool

Shah Alam, Selangor

Kuala Lumpur

Batu Caves, Selangor

Gombak, Selangor

Putrajaya

Australiancurriculum

Australian InternationalSchool Malaysia (AISM)

Selangor

Americancurriculum

Raffles American School

MontKiara InternationalSchool

International School of KualaLumpur

Dalat International School

International School ofKuantan

Nusajaya, Johor

Mont'Kiara, KualaLumpur

Ampang, Kuala Lumpur

Tanjung Bunga, Penang

Kuantan, Pahang

International

Baccalaureate

(IB)

UCSI International SchoolSpringhill

Fairview InternationalSchool

Port Dickson, NegriSembilan

Wangsa Maju, KualaLumpur

IGB International School

Nexus International School

Sri KDU International School

Excelsior InternationalSchool

International School ofPenang

International School of KL

Sungai Buloh, Selangor

Putrajaya

Selangor

Masai, Johor

Batu Feringgi,Penang

Ampang, Kuala Lumpur

Canadiancurriculum

Sunway International School Subang Jaya, Selangor

IB Diploma Location

Source: Schooladvisor.my

system, there is less emphasis onrote-learning techniques and moreon developing individual thinkingskills, curiosity and interest.lA great variety of curricula

With international schools, you canfind adaptations of different foreignnational syllabi in schools all overthe country.

Schools also offer globallyrecognised curricula such as theInternational Baccalaureate and theInternational General Certificate ofSecondary Education (IGCSE).

On top of that, some schoolsoffer a mixed curriculum thatoften combines the Malaysiannational syllabus with a foreignone.

Qualifications from these schoolsare globally recognised by institutesof higher learning, so internationalschool graduates have betterchances of pursuing tertiaryeducation overseas.

The holistic approach mostprivate and international schoolsadopt ensure that there is anextensive offering of co-curricularand charitable activities for learning

beyond the classroom.lStrong parent-school

cooperation Parents have to forkout a significant amount of schoolfees annually, but many find suchinvestments in a childs educationnot only worthy but also greatlyrewarding.

These schools are accountable toparents who fund operations andkeep a close eye on the quality ofeducation their children are getting.

Parents are expected tocommunicate with teachersand staff not only about their childsperformance but also with regardsto the schools management policiesand development plans.

The childs education then

becomes a shared responsibilitybetween students, parents, teachersand the school.lFocused individual attention

in smaller class sizes Privateand international school teachersshoulder far less administrativetasks compared to theircounterparts in the public sector.

Smaller class sizes increase one-on-one teacher-student interaction,

enabling teachers to pay closerattention and guide studentsbased on individual needs.lFirst-class facilities and

non-academic staff Amenitiessuch as libraries, laboratoriesand sports facilities are fixturesof almost every private andinternational school.

These facilities are supportedby well-trained librarians, labtechnicians and athletic coacheswho play specialised rolesoutside the traditional classroom.lSafety and health

concerns These schoolsmaintain stringent health andsafety standards.

Most private and internationalinstitutions invest in safety andsecurity measures such as trafficmanagement and security guardswithin campus vicinity.

Meals are well-planned andvaried to provide good nutritionwhile still being exciting andappetising to young students.

Kitchen staff may also bewilling to cater to specificdietary requirements.

These are some of theinternational schools offeringcurricula that you can considerfor your child at primary orsecondary level:


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bright kids 13

Fees or an investment?A SAVVY and responsible couplewill certainly think aboutfinances when planning afamily, especially in this currentvolatile economic climate.

Well-meaning friends andfamily may tell you that startingas soon as possible to save foryour childs education is the bestway to go.

If you are planning a privateor international education foryour child, this will certainlyseem like a good idea.

Earlier this year, theheadmaster of Eton College, oneof the United Kingdoms premierprivate schools, said that the bestindependent schools may havebecome too expensive formiddle-class families.

Careful planning will go a longway to achieving your goal ofobtaining the best education foryour child.

Here are some things to do:

lAssess your long-termfinancial health

You do not want to beburdened by too many expensesat the detriment of your childseducation.

While thinking about yourchilds education, think aboutyour own healthcare or housingexpenses as well.lEnsure you are fully

protectedGood life and health insurance

coverage and a comprehensiveretirement plan will help ensurethat your child is able tocontinue his education shouldanything happen to you.

SchoolFees per term

Year 1 Year 7

Terms peracademic year

Idrissi International PrimarySchool

Rafflesia International School

Eaton International School

EtonHouse International School

Sri KDU International School

elc International School

UCSI International School

Al-Noor International School

Australian InternationalSchool Malaysia

Asia Pacific International School

Baseerah International School

British International School

Fairview International School

Garden International School

Havil International School

HELP International School

IGB International School

MAZ International School

Mutiara InternationalGrammar School

Nexus International School

Time International School

The International School@ ParkCity

The Alice Smith School

Tenby International School

Taylors International School

Tanarata International School

Sri Kuala LumpurInternational School

RM1,150

RM6,000

RM7,865

RM10,500

RM11,500

RM4,800

RM5,320

RM2,400

RM9,875

RM5,200

RM5,750

RM18,118

RM12,000

RM20,170

RM4,447

RM9,900

RM30,250

RM4,500

RM5,200

RM14,160

RM7,130

RM13,190

RM16,030

RM5,040

RM5,780

RM4,200

RM7,650

RM12,333

RM9,600

RM7,300

RM3,600

RM13,765

RM8,900

RM1,650

RM26,081

RM21,150

RM25,795

RM7,400

RM13,200

RM35,750

RM7,000

RM11,700

RM19,375

RM8,625

RM18,140

RM20,650

RM10,050

RM10,370

RM5,200

RM11,380(Malaysian)

RM11,780(non-Malaysian)

4

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

4

3

3

3

2

3

3

3

2

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

2

Source: Schooladvisor.my

lTalk to your employerCheck the number of

allowances in your income taxform; most employers allowchanges outside the openenrolment period for changes infamily status.lTalk to your bankFind out about flexible

spending accounts andinvestment plans that arespecifically tailored forchildrens education.lFind out about

financial aidsThere are numerous

scholarships, bursaries and evenbank loans that can help. Somestates, such as Selangor and

Terengganu, offer scholarshipsfor children born and raisedthere provided the parents arefrom the same residence.

While curriculum,co-curricular offerings, teachersand facilities are all importantfactors when it comes tochoosing the best school for youand your childs requirements,never forget that finances play abig part.

To help you make yourselection, here is a list of tuitionfees for primary and secondarylevels at international schools inthe Klang Valley:

Planning for a private orinternational educationshould start early,especially when itcomes to finances.


14/24



The annual R.E.A.L Kids Fun Campprovides children with a memorableholiday filled with wholesome funand enriching activities.

Happy campers

R children everywhere, the mosterly awaited time of the year is

proaching and for parents, theg year-end holidays are an

portunity to spend quality timeh their children.

However, the question for manyents is, How can my childrennd their school holidaysely?or busy working parents, fillingtheir childrens idle hours witholesome activities can be allenging task, particularly

ring the holidays. It is not easykeep young and robust childrenertained or occupied for long.

eir restless minds and energeticdies require constant stimulationd active involvement.Consequently, they end upsting too much time watchingevision or playing video gameshere is nothing much else to do.

With this in mind, R.E.A.L Kidsers an exciting avenue forldren to get active.

The four-day November Funmp is organised for childrend four to nine and keeps themy during the holidays.

With its slogan Fun Camp One Go, the annual R.E.A.L Funmp event will be held at all.A.L Kids centres in the Klangley, Penang, Johor and Malacca

d is open to non-R.E.A.L Kidsdents as well.

The objective of the campo provide children with amorable holiday filled witholesome fun and enrichingivities.

R.E.A.L Kids various indoor anddoor programmes are designed

hone different skills, nurtured values, build self-confidence

and, most importantly, allowchildren to have great fun whilelearning.

With this years theme beingtransportation, the Fun Campsspecial outings will include a visitto a do-it-yourself motorised carworkshop followed by a stopoverat Muzium Negara to view thecountrys collection of vintagevehicles and other modes oftransport such as trains andplanes.

The workshop is aimed atsparking childrens interest in do-it-

yourself activities and the basicworkings of a car by teaching themhow to assemble miniature carmodels fitted with functional,

battery-powered motors thatpromise loads of fun.

The safety of the children is ofutmost importance, so rest assuredthat all R.E.A.L Kids teacherstake extra care of every childthroughout the activities.

Overall, the R.E.A.L Kids FunCamp 2015 is set to provide goodeducation and enjoyment over thefour days.

With a range of fun activitiesthat include art and craft, cooking,Character First lessons and astring of exciting telematches,

participants will have a blastwhile learning something new,unleashing their creativity andtalents as well as developing

social skills.As a parent, I always want more

for my child. At R.E.A.L Kids,students are exposed to a broadand diverse range of uniqueactivities and exciting excursionsfor them to enjoy. These funlearning platforms consist ofeducational visits and field trips toa host of places such as museums,says Cheryl Chong Wan Ling,mother to Chua Jen Shen fromR.E.A.L Kids Puchong Jaya.

This year also marks the 30thanniversary of R.E.A.L Education

Group. In conjunction with thismilestone, R.E.A.L is offering a freethree-day trial and complimentarymultiple intelligences diagnostic

test at all R.E.A.L Kids centres forparents to better understand theirchildrens strengths and personallyexperience a unique brand ofpreschool education.

Established in 1986, R.E.A.L Kidsis the countrys largest owner-operated preschool with more than30 centres nationwide.

Part of the R.E.A.L EducationGroup, R.E.A.L Kids is the pioneerin adopting the multipleintelligences approach inMalaysian preschool education.

All R.E.A.L. Kids centres providefull programmes (from 8.30am to3.30pm), which include a host ofenrichment lessons and extra-curricular activities.

These complement a fullydeveloped and holistic curriculum,which offers both national andinternational syllabi. Extended

programmes are also available tocater to busy, working parents.

nFor more information,call 03-5631 8000 or visitwww.realkids.edu.my

R.E.A.L Fun Camp

Theme: TransportationDate: Nov 23 to 26(Monday to Thursday)Time: 9am to 4pmVenue: All participatingR.E.A.L Kids centresAge: Four to nine yearsold (open to public)Fee: RM320 for four days

(inclusive of meals,outings and activitymaterials).

Unusual

schoolsONE thing that all good modern curriculahave in common is that they prepare thestudents for the real world to be asuccessful global citizen, in fact.

Any good modern school will have

comprehensive facilities to aid in thedelivery of these curricula and forco-curricula activities that help shape awell-rounded student.

But there are some curricula and schoolsthat do not conform to what most peopleimagine school to be like.

Here are some unusual schools andcurricula around the world:lBrooklyn Free School, United States

There is actually no curriculum at the school students are allowed to choose any classthey want to attend. Classes are run bystudents with teachers acting as moderators.

Students may choose to study at home,carry out independent studies instead ofattending classes or they may decide to justplay all day. There is no assessment orhomework.

Meetings are held every week to monitorand determine the schools operation,management and admission criteria.Basically, the Brooklyn Free School expectsevery student to find his or her own way.

lFloating schools, Bangladesh Thebiannual floods that Bangladesh experiencesfrequently leave millions of citizens withoutaccess to basic necessities, includingeducation as schools are forced to close.

To combat this problem, non-profit

organisation Shidhulai Swanirvar Sangsthabuilt boat schools, each of which is solar-powered and equipped with Internet access,a laptop and a small library.

During a flood, the schools pick upstudents from docks and riversides. Whenlessons are over, the school drops studentsoff and picks up another group of students.

According to the organisation, 70,000children have benefited from the schoolssince they started operation in 2002.

lWashington Heights ElementarySchool, United States This school in Texasis underground not in the sense that it issecret from authorities such as the girlsschools in Taliban-controlled Afghanistanare, but that it is literally underground.

Originally built above ground in 1919, theneed for more buildings and facilities saw itexpanding underground in the 1970s. Onceconstruction of the underground buildingwas completed, the original abovegroundschool building was demolished, though theauditorium, which was constructed in 1937,was left standing.

All classes are held underground and theschool is only connected to the surface atfour points with stairways and lifts. There isa playground on the roof of the auditorium.

The floating schools in Bangladesh ensureaccess to education even in the midst of anatural disaster.


15/24

Parents crowd the Private & International School Fair as it is a platform todiscover vital information about private and international schooling options.


bright kids 15

Discover the best optionTHERE are many options forMalaysian parents who wantto send their children to aninternational school that deliversinternational curricula usingEnglish as the language ofinstruction.

The demand for internationalschools has increasedtremendously over the past fewyears because parents have cometo recognise the importance of theEnglish language.

Good English skills are necessaryfor tertiary education and improvethe employment prospects ofgraduates.

In fact, some private schoolshave switched to offeringinternational curricula.

Most schools are British-based,offering the national curriculum ofEngland and Wales as well as theCambridge curriculum, wherestudents sit for the International

General Certificate of SecondaryEducation (IGCSE).

Some schools offer alternativecurricula such as the InternationalBaccalaureate, AustralianCurriculum and Americancurriculum.

International schools provideopportunities for students todevelop their talents beyondacademia through variedextracurricular activities such asmusic, drama, art and sports.

As international educationaims to develop well-roundedstudents, individuals areencouraged to pursue non-

academic interests as well.With more than 100

international schools in Malaysiaoffering different curricula and awide variety of extracurricularopportunities, it is importantfor parents who are interestedin sending their children tointernational schools to spend thenecessary time and effort findingthe right schools for theirchildren.

To help parents find the rightschool that suits their children,Mint Communications initiatedthe first Private & InternationalSchool Fair series in 2012.

These fairs enable parents tofind out more about internationalschooling options. The fairs havesince attracted a growing numberof exhibitors comprisinginternational schools, preschoolsand learning centres.

The number of visitors,comprising mainly parents ofschool-going children, has alsoincreased over the years, indicatingan increasing demand forinternational schools.

The next Private & InternationalSchool Fair will be held on Nov 7and 8 at the Mid Valley ExhibitionCentre, which will be the sixth suchfair held in Kuala Lumpur.

Co-founder and director of MintCommunications Nickie Yew says,The fair has grown from strengthto strength and we anticipate theparticipation of more than 60exhibitors.

This fair is for parents whowant to know more about

international schooling optionsas they will be able to speak torepresentatives from these schoolsdirectly.

In addition to meeting andspeaking to principals and headteachers from international schoolsthat are exhibiting, there will alsobe talks on international curriculaand how to choose the right schoolduring the two-day event.

There will also be interestingworkshops and activities forchildren below 12 years old.

Visit www.pisf.asia for thecomplete schedule of talks andactivities for children.

Another highlight of the fair isthat visitors will be able to getthe latest 2015/2016 edition ofEducation Destination Malaysia,a comprehensive guidebook thatlists all international schools inMalaysia and contains usefulinformation and advice for parentswho are planning or preparing toenrol their children ininternational schools.

Admission is free. Visitors whoregister online at www.pisf.asiabefore the fair will gain instantaccess to the fair in addition to acomplimentary goody bag anda chance to win prizes fromLegoland or MPH Bookstores.

nFor the complete listof exhibitors, visitwww.PrivateInternationalSchoolFair.com

Event details:

6th Private &International School Fairin Kuala LumpurDate: Nov 7 and 8(Saturday and Sunday)Time: 11am to 6pmVenue: Mid ValleyExhibition Centre


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Cultural arts immersionis home to all types of theatrewithin Malaysia, KLPac offers avariety of productions showcasingyoung talents, while PenangPACpresents art exhibitions, liveconcerts and much more. Therewill surely be a performance thatwould prove entertaining andenriching, as they range fromoriginal local productions to clevercomedies and hit Broadwaymusicals.

Perhaps watching a live showwill awaken hidden talents andpassions within your child.

lAttend a concert or festivalOlder children may enjoy festivals

celebrating local and internationalcultures.

The upcoming Melaka TourismStreet Carnival is one example of acultural festival where families cantake part in modern and traditionalgames and watch traditional musicand dance performances.

Malaysia hosts many culturaland music festivals throughout theyear the KL International ArtsFestival and the internationallyacclaimed annual Rainforest WorldMusic Festival in Sarawak areamong the more popular ones.

These events are often familyfriendly and safe, but should only

be attended by older and moreresponsible members of the youth.

lImmerse your child inage-old traditions It is true thatthe modern generation is notsufficiently exposed to ourcountrys traditional aspects sowhy not allow for the rediscoveryof timeless classical art within anew era?

The Central Market in KualaLumpur showcases frequentmulticultural shows performed onan outdoor stage, from martial artsdemonstrations to cultural dances.

lArt exhibition can be fun

and eye-opening Aspiring youngartists can wonder at exhibits ofcreative artwork by whimsicalminds, most of which are displayedfrequently in shopping centres andart galleries.

Publika is one of the many mallsin KL with regular exhibitions forthose who enjoy contemporary,contemplative artworks.

For a more interactiveexperience, Penangs 3D Trick ArtMuseum and Port Dicksons Alive3D Art Gallery allow fancifulfantasies, including posing withAlice at the Mad Hatters tea party,to become reality. All it takes is a

photograph for your child tobelieve they have wandered into anew world.

lInvolve your child in the artsscene Enrolling in art classes is agood way to improve memory, gainsharper problem-solving skills andstimulate the imagination.

Similarly, taking dance, musicand drama lessons can instilinspiration and confidence froma young age.

The Actors Studio Academy atboth KLPac and PenangPAC offerunique workshops such as creativewriting, speech and drama, danceand musical theatre that will surely

set minds whirring.There are many institutes that

offers classes in traditional dancesand music.

This is an excellent way tonurture an appreciation forMalaysian culture in children ofall ages. These help encourage thedevelopment of an innovative andoriginal way of thinking.

Regardless of age, participationin such creative outlets ofexpression will surely provevaluable and satisfying for yourchild, creating memories andlessons that will carry themthrough their lives.

PABLO PICASSO once famouslystated, Art washes away from thesoul the dust of everyday life.

Many believe that a balance ofthe arts and studies is key to

developing an all-rounded,healthy, happy individual.

Exposure to the arts teachesstudents how to interpret andthink critically.

Nowadays, the arts are oftenpushed aside for virtual games

and entertainment. However,with gradual exposure

and continuousoutings, you caninstil in your childan appreciation

for humancreativity withactivities thatare enjoyablefor the entirefamily.

lWatch ashow at your

nearest theatreThis is a fun andsatisfying experience.Malaysias

performing artsscene is growingby the day.

Istana Budaya

king part inaditional musicrformancesn nurturepreciation for

alaysianlture.


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17THE STAR,TUESDAY 3 NOVEMBER 2015


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19THE STAR,TUESDAY 3 NOVEMBER 2015


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Datuk Seri Dr Richard Ong (fifth from left) at the Smart Reader Kids Abu Dhabi centre.


bright kids 21

Innovation beyond bordersSMART Reader Worldwidecommenced business operations in1998 under the leadership of itschief executive officer Datuk SeriDr Richard Ong and groupexecutive director Datin Seri DatukDr K. H. Wang and opened its pilotcentre in Subang in 1999.

Since its humble beginningsas Smart Education Centre,which only provided the SmartReader English programme, thecompany has grown byleaps and bounds to become aworld-renowned organisationtoday.

The Smart Reader brand has

become a household name inMalaysia and on foreign shores in Thailand, the Philippines,Brunei, China and the Middle East.

In the last couple of years,Smart Reader Worldwide hasaggressively forged ahead withoverseas expansion.

The organisation has prioritisedextensive development plans inthe Middle East to make it thepremier early childhood educationprovider in the region.

Last year, the first Smart ReaderKids centre was established in AbuDhabi, the United Arab Emirates(UAE).

The official opening and launchof the second centre in the city of

Al Ain in the UAE is set to takeplace soon. Plans are alsounderway to set up the first SmartReader Kids centre in Nigeria andTurkey.

In Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, theSmart Reader Kids centres arehoused in luxurious three-storeyvillas with large playgrounds andspacious rooms.

International franchiseesRasheed Abdulla Rashed SaeedAldhaheri and Mhd Samer Alotrihope to expand into the markets ofother emirates and neighbouringcountries such as Oman and Qatar.

While the Middle East is gearingto be the next regional hub of earlychildhood education for Smart

Reader Worldwide, anotherlanguage and enrichment centrehas already been established inMelbourne, Australia.

A Smart Reader Kids centre willalso begin operation in Medan,Indonesia, by next year and HongKong is the next target.

The Smart Reader Englishprogramme and Smart ReaderMandarin programme will be themain focus of the languagecentres.

Besides overseas expansion, theorganisations existing 350 centresin Sabah and Sarawak andpeninsular Malaysia are beingfortified as well.

New and exciting, fun-filled

programmes have been introducedto the Malaysian market, making itthe No.1 choice among parentsnationwide.

Comprehensive research anddevelopment are constantlyconducted to ensure that the newprogrammes introduced arecurrent and relevant to suit thepresent dynamic environment.

Besides the classic Smart ReaderKids and Smart Reader Kids++programmes, centres are nowoffering the Smart Reader KidsIslamic, Smart Reader KidsMandarin Medium and the SmartReader Kids Intensive Englishprogrammes.

The Smart Reader Kids

Mandarin Medium is popularamong parents who want toprepare their children for formalschooling in Chinese whileSmart Reader Kids Islamic offersthe comprehensive Smart Tadriscurriculum for Muslim childrenfrom as young as three years old.

The royal patron of the SmartTadris programme is the RajaMuda of Perlis Tuanku SyedFaizuddin Putra Ibni Tuanku SyedSirajuddin Jamalullail while the

honorary advisor is Datuk AbuHasan Din Al-Hafiz, the formerreligious advisor of Istana Negara.

The Smart Reader Kids++, anextension of the Smart Reader Kidsprogramme, provides full- and

half-day care and education.Working parents with youngchildren who face childcarechallenges find this programmehelpful, especially with theintroduction of the Smart Fun Playprogramme.

The Smart Fun Play programmeuses soft toys in play and isdesigned to nurture children to becaring, independent and skilled intaking care of themselves andthings in their care.

For example, play and creativeactivities with Bobo the Bear aredesigned with the objective ofproviding a holistic learningexperience for Smart Reader Kidsstudents.

The introduction of the SmartReader Kids Intensive EnglishProgramme is seen as timely,especially with the recentannouncement by the EducationMinistry that the UPSR publicexaminations English paper will beseparated into two sections comprehension and composition.

Focusing on building a strongfoundation in the English language,children learn various aspects ofthe language vocabulary, poem

recitation, public speaking,storytelling and creative writingthrough the Intensive EnglishProgramme.

Parents believe that the SmartReader Kids Intensive Englishprogramme is the best way toenhance and enrich learnersliteracy skills at preschool level.

Children have been known toattain high proficiency levelswith the help of this innovativeprogramme.

The expansion of theprogramme also includes thesetting up of crches in corporateand government buildings

throughout the nation.The first corporate crche

set up under the Smart ReaderWorldwide banner is set to opensoon within the premises of itsheadquarters in Kepong BusinessPark. It will be housed in theSmart Reader International (SRI)College building.

The establishing of thiscorporate crche is aimed atcatering to the workingpopulation of fathers andmothers in the vicinity ofSegambut, Kepong, Jalan Ipohand other nearby areas.

The corporate crche isseen as a timely solution forhouseholds with young children

that do not have a baby-sitter,maid or nanny.

Smart Reader Worldwide andSRI College have heeded the call ofthe Government to offer childcareservices within organisations.Providing such childcare servicesensures better concentrationamong staff and enhances workperformance.

This is because parents can restassured that their children arenurtured in a safe and securedenvironment with highly trainededucators.

The centre is equipped withstate-of-the-art facilities thatprovide children with a holisticearly childhood experience.

Quality early childhoodeducation has lifelong implicationsas it provides a solid foundation oflearning for all children.

Not only does it help cultivatesocial and interactive skills butit also helps in language andcognitive development as well asnurturing emotional maturity,says Dr Wang.

True to its tagline, Smart ReaderKids is indeed every childs dreamschool.

The children in the Smart Reader Kids Islamic programme learn to becomeexpressive, creative and imaginative.

The Smart Reader Kids++ programme enables children toexperience a wonderful school environment conducive tolearning.

Franchisee of Smart Reader Kids Bandar Baru Bangi Datin NorHidayawati Jaafar with her Smart Tadris students.

The Smart Reader Kids Intensive English Programme focuses ondeveloping vocabulary, and communication and public speakingskills.


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Nurturing holistic learnersILDRENS early educationerience should be consideredefully by parents because anderful learning experienceuld captivate children andtain their interest.

Without a doubt, parents go toat lengths to select the bestschool for their children.n this respect, hundreds ofusands of parents have given

uble thumbs-up for thegrammes initiated by Smart

ader Worldwide, whichmprise Smart Reader Kids,art Reader Kids++, Smart

ader Kids Islamic, Smart Readers Mandarin Medium and the

art Reader Kids Intensiveglish Programme.or three consecutive years11 to 2013),Readers Digest

nferred Smart Readerrldwide with the Trusted Brandard in the category of Childrens

ucation Centre.Voted for by consumers, thisnificant award symbolised thetus of Smart Reader Worldwidehe foremost early childhood

ucation provider in the region.The success and popularity of

various programmes is seenhe way children engage inolistic early childhooducation experience, attestingt Smart Reader Kids is indeed

ry childs dream school.arents are often baffled abouty their children insist on goingchool even when they are ill.

e answer lies in the fun andative learning process that ist of the Smart Reader Kidsriculum.

The Smart Reader Kidsriculum is based on the Smart

ader Creative Teachingthodology, which has receivedrldwide recognition andolades from various bodies andanisations that have attested toexcellence of its programmes.arents affirm the remarkablegress that children make withinw months of being in the

gramme.The Smart Reader Creativeching Methodology wasnded by group executiveector of Smart Readerrldwide Datin Seri Datuk Dr K.

Wang to make lessons fun anditing for children.

More importantly, this creativeproach to teaching and learning

been able to capture childrensention and sustain interes

bright kids - 3 november 2015

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