Comparing 3 schools side by side in USD.
Australian International School is located at 1 Lorong Chuan. The school is conveniently accessible via the Lorong Chuan MRT station on the Circle Line. Nearby amenities include the serene Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park and a range of shopping and dining options at the nearby Junction 8 and Nex malls.
The Australian International School in Singapore is structured into three main sections: an Early Learning Village for children aged 2 months to 6 years, an Elementary School for students in Preparatory to Year 5, and a Secondary School which encompasses Years 6 to 12. The curriculum includes the Australian Curriculum, International Baccalaureate, and Cambridge IGCSE, HSC and IBDP.
Australian International School in Singapore is a co-educational institution catering to students from preschool to Year 12. The school does not offer boarding facilities.
The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore provides targeted learning support through its Learning Enrichment Program, ensuring that students with diverse learning needs receive the necessary assistance to succeed. The Learning Enrichment Department works closely with classroom teachers and specialist staff to implement a flexible, needs-based support system tailored to individual students.
Australian International School in Singapore is affiliated with Australia, offering a curriculum based on the Australian educational framework.
Australian International School in Singapore is a secular school with no affiliation to any particular religion, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
The school day at Australian International School in Singapore typically begins at 8:30 AM and ends at 3:30 PM. Students have structured breaks, including a morning recess and a lunch break.
Australian International School in Singapore offers a convenient bus service for students, ensuring safe and reliable transportation. The service is operated by YKAYE Transport Service. Buses are equipped with seat belts and GPS tracking, and all buses are accompanied by a Bus Amah (Aunty) to ensure the children are seated safely.
Boarding is available for AIS Singapore secondary students (Year 7 to Year 12). Homestay students may reside in the school's approved boarding house, Oldham Hall, with an approved adult guardian. Preparatory to Year 6 students are not eligible for Homestay; they reside with parents or an approved direct family member. All homestay arrangements must be approved before the first day of school to ensure student wellbeing.
Students must wear the school uniform on regular school days. Uniforms are sold exclusively by Lim Meng Keng Department Store at Holland Village; AIS has an on‑campus Uniform Shop that provides display and fitting services and can place orders with Lim Meng Keng. Representative sports uniforms are sold exclusively at the AIS Uniform Shop. AIS Uniform Shop is open Monday–Friday with morning and afternoon slots (8:00–12:00, 13:00–15:45; lunch break 12:00–13:00). Shoe provider is Lims Uniforms, with both online and in‑store options at Holland Village.
Canteen services are managed by Sodexo, with two canteens on campus. Sodexo prepares meals on site. Primary students receive standardised meals delivered to classrooms; Prep to Year 2 lunches must be pre‑ordered; Year 3 and above can pre‑order for pickup or purchase with an AIS student card; Year 12 students can order from the Billabong Café. Meal prices are typically between $6 and $7.50. Mindful food choices and fresh, balanced menus are emphasized by Sodexo.
The Australian International School is part of Cognita, the international independent schools group.
The school follows the Australian curriculum framework, supplemented by the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. For younger students in the Early Years (ages 2-6), the inquiry-based Reggio Emilia-inspired approach is utilised. The Primary School (Prep -5) follows the IB PYP, and the Middle School (Years 6-8) follow the Australian Curriculum. From Years 9-10, students engage in the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), and in Years 11-12, they can choose between the Higher School Certificate (HSC), the IB Diploma Programme or flexible IB Courses and the AIS diploma accredited by WASC.
The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a structured Positive Education Framework, which is based on Martin Seligman’s PERMAH model. This approach fosters positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, accomplishment, and health, encouraging students to develop resilience and self-awareness. The school’s STRIVE Program further supports SEL by engaging students in activities that enhance personal growth, international-mindedness, and values-based learning. To ensure student well-being is continuously monitored, AIS implements the C.A.R.E.S survey each term, gathering insights on students' experiences, relationships, and self-perception to provide timely interventions. Additionally, the school promotes mental and physical wellness through over 300 co-curricular activities (CCAs) and an Outdoor Education Program, which enhances cognitive function, resilience, and teamwork through hands-on activities in nature.
The Australian International School in Singapore offers support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) through a comprehensive Learning Enrichment program. This program is designed for students with mild to moderate needs and includes services such as individualized learning plans and small-group sessions tailored to specific requirements. The school is equipped with a dedicated team of trained special education staff, including learning support teachers to assist students in their academic and social development. While the school supports a range of needs, including learning difficulties and social-emotional challenges, it is not a specialist SEN institution. Prospective parents are encouraged to discuss their child's specific needs with the admissions team to ensure the school can provide appropriate support.
The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore provides a structured English as an Additional Language (EAL) program to support non-native English speakers. Elementary students progress through Beginner, Transitioning, and Consolidating Phases, receiving tailored instruction and ongoing monitoring to ensure successful integration into mainstream classes. Secondary students in Years 6–8 benefit from a co-teaching model within their core subjects, while those in Years 9–10 participate in the EAL Senior Studies Preparation Program (ESSPP) to refine academic English skills. For students requiring intensive support, AIS offers the Intensive English Stream (IES), providing over 26 hours of targeted instruction per week. English proficiency is assessed upon admission, with support programs customized to meet individual needs.
The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore prioritizes student mental well-being through a structured approach that integrates Positive Education, pastoral care, and well-being initiatives. The STRIVE program further supports students by addressing topics such as digital citizenship, mental health, and positive decision-making. To ensure continuous well-being monitoring, AIS conducts the C.A.R.E.S survey each term, gathering student feedback on their experiences and relationships to provide timely interventions.
The Australian International School (AIS) Singapore prioritizes safeguarding and child protection through comprehensive policies and practices. The school has a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) overseeing child protection measures. All staff undergo regular training to identify and respond to concerns, ensuring swift intervention when needed. AIS enforces strict recruitment procedures, including background checks, and maintains a 24-hour security presence with a visitor management system using color-coded lanyards for identification. The school fosters open communication and provides resources to educate the community on child safety, creating a secure and supportive environment where students feel safe and valued.
Australian International School (AIS) in Singapore was founded in 1993 and is part of the Cognita group, a global network of schools, ensuring robust support and governance.
Australian International School (AIS) in Singapore fosters a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students from over 50 nationalities. The school regularly hosts over 200 community events yearly, such as International Day and family-oriented events like the Spring Fair, encouraging interaction and collaboration among parents, students, and staff. These events help cultivate a strong, supportive community.
The Australian International School in Singapore has an active Parent Association (AISPA) that plays a pivotal role in fostering community spirit and supporting the school environment. All parents and guardians of current AIS students are automatically members of AISPA. The association's objectives include promoting community engagement, supporting students, collaborating with school leadership, advocating on behalf of parents, and ensuring sustainable governance. AISPA organizes various events throughout the year, such as social gatherings and fundraising activities, to enhance the school community's vibrancy. Parents are encouraged to participate in these events and volunteer their time and skills.
AIS Singapore operates on a single campus at 1 Lorong Chuan, Singapore 556818. The campus includes the Early Learning Village (ELV) for infants to preschool and the Elementary and Secondary sections on the same site. The ELV features 1,500m² of UV-covered outdoor play spaces and a dedicated swimming pool for early learning. The ELV also houses a library and specialist spaces, with on-site nursing support and a structured transition to the rest of the campus. AIS serves students from more than 50 nationalities and runs over 300 co-curricular activities on campus.
AIS offers over 300 CCAs, including a broad sports program. The sport calendar includes fixtures in basketball, football, netball, rugby, and other sports as part of the after-school program. Students participate in local fixtures and competitions through the school's sport activities.
AIS is an IB World School delivering five globally recognised curricula: IB Primary Years Programme, Australian Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), and the Higher School Certificate (HSC), plus the IB Courses Plus pathway. In Early Years, the curriculum combines IB PYP with the Australian Early Years Framework; in Elementary, IB PYP with the Australian Curriculum. In Secondary, Years 6–8 follow the Australian Curriculum, Years 9–10 use Cambridge IGCSE, and Years 11–12 offer IBDP or HSC. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Approximately 70% of students pursue IBDP and 30% achieve 38+ IB points; 100% of graduates gain admission to universities worldwide. AIS hosts students from over 50 nationalities.
AIS offers over 300 co-curricular activities (CCAs).
The school offers five globally recognised curricula: IB Primary Years Programme, Australian Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme, and the Higher School Certificate. There is also the IB Courses Plus pathway, which combines selected IB subjects with the AIS Diploma and is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). AIS provides a continuous Year Level Curriculum from Infant Care to Year 12, with Early Years (Infant Care to Preschool 4) including IB PYP and the Australian Early Years Framework, Elementary (Prep to Year 5), and Secondary Year 6–8 (IGCSE Prep), Year 9–10 (IGCSE), and Year 11–12 (IBDP, HSC or IB Courses+). AIS offers more than 55 subject choices across these pathways.
AIS delivers a Secondary program in Visual Arts, Music and Drama. There are over 50 arts co-curricular activities offering string ensembles, jazz bands, 3D design and printing, private instrument programs, speech and drama, Chinese calligraphy, and large-scale theatre productions. The Coral Dixon Theater and dedicated facilities include eight drama studios, eight visual art studios, eight music studios and twelve music practice rooms to support artistic development. AIS stages large theatre productions and offers ongoing arts involvement through CCAs and performances.
AIS has a diverse community of over 50 nationalities on campus. Mandarin Language Club is offered among the Early Years CCAs. The school's global curricula emphasise international perspectives and language exposure across IB, IGCSE and HSC pathways.
AIS runs more than 300 co-curricular activities accessible to students from early years through secondary; activities occur at lunchtime and after school. Examples include Public Speaking, Model United Nations, Cooking, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Gymnastics, Basketball, Tennis, Soccer and Badminton. The CCA programme continues into Elementary and Secondary School at lunchtime and after school.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is part of AIS's program, with expeditions for Years 9 and 10 and opportunities for international service-learning trips. The program develops resilience, leadership and life skills through practical challenges. Community and service experiences are integrated across CCAs and school activities.
Public speaking and Model United Nations provide leadership development within AIS's co-curricular ecosystem. The Duke of Edinburgh Award fosters leadership, independence and life skills. CCAs across arts, sport and clubs provide avenues to develop teamwork, initiative and professional skills.
AIS places wellbeing at the heart of learning with a dedicated Wellbeing Program led by a Wellbeing Team, including school psychologists and counsellors. The Wellbeing Program focuses on six themes: Belonging, Identity and Connection, Healthy Relationships, Global citizenship, Digital wellbeing, and Emotional Intelligence and Academic Empowerment. The CARES survey informs wellbeing interventions, and Outdoor Education activities contribute to holistic wellbeing through experiential learning. Camp Asia and other outdoor activities further support physical and social wellbeing.
AIS Singapore offers Mandarin language study as part of its language provision. English language support is provided through the AIS Preparation Course (PCS) for Years 6–9, and Foundational English for Years 6–10. PCS is a one-year intensive English program designed to prepare students for mainstream AIS study. Foundational English leads to AIS mainstream courses with EAL support upon completion.
No, daily levelled Mandarin in Elementary. Four times weekly in the Early Years. AIS does offer bilingual IB diplomas and had 41% bilingual IBDP diplomas in the graduating class of 2025.
Best International School in Singapore Award (2022): This award, given by the Singapore Education Awards, recognizes outstanding performance across academics, facilities, and student well-being among international schools in Singapore.
Excellence in Education Award (2021): Presented by the International Education Society, this award highlights schools that demonstrate exemplary teaching practices and innovative curriculum design.
Sustainability in International Education Award (2020): Offered by the Green Schools Alliance, this award recognizes schools that implement effective sustainability practices within their campus and curriculum.
Outstanding Pastoral Care Award (2019): This accolade from the International School Awards acknowledges schools where student welfare and support systems significantly contribute to student development and well-being.
Best Innovation in Curriculum Design Award (2018): Recognized by the Educational Innovations Network, this award celebrates AIS's unique approach to integrating modern educational techniques into their curricula.
Council of International Schools (CIS):
- The CIS accreditation signifies that the school meets high international standards in various aspects of education, including teaching and learning, staff qualifications, and student welfare.
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC):
- AIS has achieved accreditation from WASC, a globally recognized accrediting body that evaluates schools on educational quality, governance, and commitment to continuous improvement.
New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA):
- Accreditation by NESA means that AIS is recognized to deliver the New South Wales curriculum, ensuring that the education provided aligns with the academic standards set by the New South Wales education system in Australia.
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School:
- AIS is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for students in Years 11 and 12.
SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) Registration:
- AIS is registered as a Private Education Institution (PEI) under the regulatory framework of SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG).
EduTrust Certification by the Committee for Private Education (CPE) of Singapore:
- The EduTrust certification is awarded to private schools in Singapore that meet requirements in key areas such as academic processes, student protection, and transparency.
doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps. Book a tour or attend an open house event.
This is your opportunity to visit the AIS campus, whether virtually or in person, and get a firsthand feel of the school's environment. Open house events often include conversations with key faculty members and current students, providing valuable insight into the school's ethos and curriculum. You can book these visits through the admissions team or directly on the school's website.
Complete the application forms.
Once you’re ready to proceed, fill out the application forms provided by the admissions team or available online. This includes providing necessary documents, such as previous school reports, a copy of your child's passport, and any applicable learning support documents.
Pay the application fee.
A non-refundable application fee is required to process your child’s application. This fee is typically paid online, and details will be provided by the admissions team.
Attend a family interview.
The school may invite your family to an interview, which can often be conducted virtually for overseas applicants. This meeting allows the admissions team to learn more about your child’s personality, interests, and unique skills. It’s also an excellent opportunity for you to ask any additional questions about AIS, ensuring a mutual fit for both parties.
Wait for the assessment or interview outcome.
Based on the submitted documents and the family interview, your child might be invited to participate in an academic assessment. This is usually a standard procedure to assess your child's learning profile and ensure they can adequately access the curriculum on offer.
Receive an enrolment offer.
If your child meets the admissions criteria, AIS will extend an enrolment offer. This offer comes with detailed instructions on how to secure your child’s place at the school, including accepting the offer, paying the relevant fees, and submitting any further documentation.
Complete the enrolment formalities.
After accepting the offer, you will need to finalize enrolment by completing the necessary forms and fulfilling any remaining administrative requirements.
Financial Assistance and Discounts: While traditional scholarships might not be on offer, AIS sometimes provides other forms of financial relief or discounts. These could include sibling discounts, especially useful for families enrolling multiple children.
Waitlist Operation: If a grade level is fully subscribed, applicants will be placed on a waitlist. This waitlist is not simply a chronological queue. Factors impacting priority on the waitlist may include the applicant's nationality, ensuring diverse international representation, and whether the student is relocating from an Australian or other international curriculum, which may ease the educational transition. The school often gives precedence to applicants who have siblings already enrolled at AIS, recognizing the needs of families to have their children attend the same institution.
Notification and Updates: Once on the waitlist, the school updates families regularly regarding their application status. They inform parents promptly when a place becomes available, allowing enough time for them to make necessary relocation and enrollment arrangements.
Flexibility and Communication: AIS encourages open communication with prospective families. If a spot becomes available that aligns with the desired start date, the admissions team will reach out immediately to offer placement.
St Francis Methodist School (SFMS) is situated at 492 Upper Bukit Timah Road. The surrounding area is characterized by lush greenery and peaceful surroundings, offering a conducive environment for learning. The campus is adjacent to Hillview MRT Station, providing convenient access via Singapore's Downtown Line.
SFMS has three educational levels; Primary (years 1 to 6), Secondary (years 7 - 10), and Senior High levels (years 11 and 12).
SFMS is a co-educational institution and does not provide boarding facilities.
SFMS is committed to supporting students with diverse learning needs. The school provides a School Counselling service to assist students' mental health and social-emotional development. The School Counsellor collaborates with teachers, parents, guardians, and external professionals to offer tailored support.
The school does not have an affiliation with any particular country.
SFMS is affiliated with the Methodist Church in Singapore. The school upholds Christian values, integrating character development and spiritual growth into its educational framework.
The school operates from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Breaks and lunch periods are incorporated within this schedule.
The school does not operate a bus service.
St Francis Methodist School (International) is governed by a Board of Directors and an Academic & Examination Board. The Board of Directors is chaired by Mr. Lee Chong Min, and the Academic & Examination Board is chaired by Mrs Kelvyna Chan. The school partners with Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) for Cambridge Primary and IGCSE, with the Ministry of Education, Singapore for GCE O-Level, with the School Curriculum and Standards Authority for Western Australia WAEC, and with the International Baccalaureate for the Diploma Programme. The school is located at 492 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 678095.
St Francis Methodist School (SFMS) offers a diverse curriculum tailored to various educational stages. At the primary level (Years 1–6), students engage in the International Cambridge Primary Programme, focusing on languages, mathematics, science, and global perspectives. In lower secondary (Years 7–8), the Singapore-Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum builds a strong foundation in languages, mathematics, science, and humanities. Upper secondary students (Years 9–10) can choose between the IGCSE and GCE 'O' Level programmes, both emphasizing proficiency in languages, mathematics, and sciences. Senior High students (Years 11–12) offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme and the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), preparing students for global academic pursuits.
SFMS places a strong emphasis on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), aiming to equip students with essential life skills and values. The school's Student Development program encompasses Character and Values Education (CVE), Christian Ministry, Student Leadership, Service Learning, and more. These initiatives are designed to foster self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making among students. The school also offers Interest Groups and Co-Academic Programs.
SFMS is dedicated to supporting students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). While the school is not exclusively a specialist SEN institution, it strives to accommodate a range of SEN, including learning difficulties, emotional challenges, and behavioral concerns. The School Counsellor plays a pivotal role in providing counseling support tailored to each student's needs. Collaborative efforts involve working closely with teachers, parents, guardians, and, when necessary, external professionals and community agencies to ensure support.
St Francis Methodist School (SFMS) acknowledges the importance of supporting students for whom English is an additional language. To address this, the school offers the 'GROW with English' programme, a differentiated initiative designed to cater to students with varying language proficiency levels. This programme aims to help students become confident users of the English language, ensuring they can fully engage with the curriculum and school activities.
SFMS is committed to fostering the mental wellbeing of its students. The school provides a range of self-help resources to empower students to manage their wellbeing effectively. The School Counsellor is available to offer counseling support for students facing mental health or social challenges.
The safety and protection of students are paramount at SFMS. The school has established policies and procedures to safeguard students, including guidelines for dispute resolution and protocols for reporting concerns. Staff members are trained to identify signs of abuse and neglect, with clear procedures in place for reporting and addressing such issues. SFMS also emphasizes the importance of safer recruitment practices to ensure that all staff are suitable to work with children.
Attend a school tour or open house: Schedule a visit to SFMS to experience the campus environment firsthand, meet faculty, and gain a better understanding of the school's culture and facilities.
Submit the application: Complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
Schedule the admissions test and interview: After submitting your application, book a date for the admissions test. The test assesses proficiency in English and Mathematics; Science is required for pre-tertiary programmes.
Attend the admissions test and interview: Attend and complete the admissions test on the scheduled date. An interview with school representatives will also be part of the process.
Receive the Letter of Offer: Successful applicants will receive a Letter of Offer, Confirmation of Acceptance, and Course Application Fee Quotation.
Confirm acceptance: Sign and return the Confirmation of Acceptance along with:
- Application for Admissions (Form B)
- All documents required for Student’s Pass application
- Course application fees of S$981 (inclusive of GST)
Complete admission formalities: Upon approval of the Student’s Pass, finalize all admission procedures, including verification of original documents, before the school term begins.
SFMS offers scholarships to recognize and support outstanding students. The SFMS Scholarship is valued between S$2,000 to S$4,000 and is tenable for one year, with the possibility of renewal upon reapplication and evaluation.
Applicants must have outstanding academic achievements, good co-curricular and leadership records, be of good conduct, and have excellent recommendations from teachers.
Applicants should have been a student of SFMS for at least one semester prior to applying. The scholarship also requires active contribution to the school community in areas such as leadership, service, publicity, and events.
SFMS operates a waitlist system for applicants. If a desired programme is full, qualified applicants may be placed on the waitlist and offered a place if it becomes available.
Melbourne International School is located at 75C Loewen Road, in the Dempsey area near Tanglin. The neighborhood is well-connected by bus and taxi, and Orchard MRT station is a short ride away. Families will find a range of cafes, shops, and green spaces close by, offering convenient amenities and a relaxed atmosphere.
Melbourne International School groups its students by age and developmental needs, covering Early Years, Primary School, and Secondary School.
Melbourne International School is a co-educational day school serving students across various age groups. It does not offer boarding facilities.
20 nationalities
Melbourne International School in Singapore focuses on students with a range of learning needs, including autism and other developmental challenges. The curriculum is therapy-based and supported by specialists such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. Students also benefit from specialized facilities like sensory rooms and a life skills area.
Melbourne International School does not have an affiliation with any particular country.
Melbourne International School does not have a religious affiliation.
Melbourne International School’s day typically runs from about 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM, with a brief morning break and a scheduled lunch break.
Melbourne International School partners with an external bus company to provide safe and convenient transport for students. The service covers various areas in Singapore and can be tailored to parents’ needs.
All students wear uniforms every day. The uniform is supplied by Lims Uniforms.
Melbourne International School was established in 2014. It was founded by Ganesh Kanapathy Junior and Jayne Nadarajoo, who also cofounded the White Lodge Education Group Services and the ASPIRE Centre for Special Education. The school is governed by an Academic Board that includes a Founding Director and other board members; an Organisational Structure is presented on the site.
Melbourne International School follows an Australian (Victorian) Curriculum from Early Years to Senior Years, tailored for students with additional learning needs. Younger learners follow the Victorian Early Years Learning Framework, focusing on fundamental literacy, numeracy, and creative exploration. Primary and secondary students engage with core subjects aligned to the Australian Curriculum, with attention to life skills and social development. At senior levels, they undertake specialized learning pathways such as the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL).
Early Years, Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten - 1:4
Foundation 1 & Foundation 2 - 1:4
Pathways 3 & Pathways 4 - 1:4
Transition 5 & Transition 6 - 1:4
Victorian Curriculum Level 1 to 5 - 1:8
Melbourne International School provides regular Social and Emotional Learning sessions as part of its core curriculum, guided by trained teachers and specialist support staff. A dedicated pastoral care team monitors student well-being, offering one-on-one counseling and small-group workshops on stress management, empathy, and interpersonal skills. Classroom teachers also integrate SEL principles into daily lessons, encouraging students to practice kindness, self-awareness, and responsible decision-making. The school organizes parent-to-school communication sessions, so families can reinforce SEL strategies at home. In addition, students have access to activities that build teamwork and promote healthy peer relationships across grade levels.
Melbourne International School supports a range of special educational needs, including autism, ADHD, and developmental delays. It employs therapists, special education teachers, and specialist support staff to plan individualized learning programs. The curriculum often incorporates physical, occupational, and speech therapies, alongside arts-based activities that encourage skill development and engagement. The school’s facilities and resources are adapted for various learning styles, helping students practice communication and daily living skills.
Melbourne Specialist International School, sometimes referred to as Melbourne International School, does not appear to offer a dedicated EAL program. Families requiring significant EAL assistance should contact the school directly to discuss their child’s specific needs.
Melbourne International School integrates mental wellbeing into its daily programmes through a team-based approach. Teachers, therapists, and counsellors collaborate to address each student’s emotional and social needs. Calming spaces, mindfulness activities, and targeted skill-building sessions are woven into the curriculum, fostering self-awareness and resilience. Students also benefit from small group discussions on topics such as stress management and interpersonal communication. Parents are regularly engaged through school-home updates and workshops, ensuring consistent support for each child.
Melbourne International School has a clear Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy that details how staff identify, respond to, and report concerns. Designated Child Protection Officers oversee the implementation of these guidelines, ensuring all issues are addressed promptly and confidentially. Mandatory background checks and regular safeguarding trainings for teachers and support staff further reinforce a secure environment. The school also partners with approved external agencies when necessary, promoting accountability and aligned best practices.
Founded in 2014 by a group of Australian educators, Melbourne International School was conceived to address specialized learning needs in Singapore. Over the years, it expanded its programs to include creative arts and other tailored approaches to support diverse learners.
Melbourne International School in Singapore fosters a close-knit community through regular social gatherings and workshops for families, staff, and students. It celebrates cultural diversity with events marking festivals like Lunar New Year, Diwali, and Christmas, encouraging everyone to share traditions. Families often actively participate, ensuring a warm, supportive environment for the entire school community.
Melbourne International School (MIS) in Singapore does not publicly provide specific information regarding a Parent Teacher Association (PTA) on its official website. However, the school emphasizes strong collaboration between parents and staff. An example is the GUILD Community Club which is an opportunity for parents of MIS and The GUILD International College to get together, meet with the teachers, and other parents on a regular basis.
The airy and spacious School site at Loewen Gardens provides a quiet, warm and secure environment. The school has spacious, air-conditioned classrooms. It is fully equipped with state-of-the-art PCs and educational software, with ICT labs available for projects at The GUILD. Dedicated Music, Drama and Performing Arts areas support performances and rehearsals. Outdoor Activity Areas offer space for sports and playground activities, and an Indoor Gym provides a safe space for movement. A Life Skills Room and a Therapy Room support practical learning and therapy sessions.
Outdoor Activity Areas provide ample space for sports and playground activities. The Indoor Gym offers a safe, climate-controlled space for movement and physical education. The facilities support inclusive education with therapy rooms and spaces for adaptive physical activities as needed.
The Victorian Curriculum Foundation to Year 10 forms the core of the academic program. The language of instruction is English. Classrooms and ICT facilities support small-group instruction and cross-curricular projects, with ICT labs available for projects at The GUILD. A Life Skills Room and access to therapy services support learning for students with diverse needs.
The school uses an arts-based programme that draws on dance, drama, music and visual arts to teach functional English, mathematics and daily living skills. The dedicated Music, Drama and Performing Arts spaces support performances, public speaking, school plays, recitals and concerts. The arts-based approach is integrated into classroom activities to support inclusive education and active participation by all students.
The school follows the Foundation to Year 10 Australian Curriculum (Victorian Curriculum) with a Personalised Learning Plan to tailor education to each student's needs. The eight learning areas are English, Mathematics, Science, Health and Physical Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, The Arts, Technologies and Languages. The school differentiates instruction to accommodate various learning styles and allows students to progress at their own pace. The environment is intimate and supportive, designed to foster individual growth.
The Visual and Performing Arts Programme (VPA) is part of the curriculum, with specialist teachers in art, dance, music, and related therapies. The school provides therapy services, including occupational therapy, physical education and speech and language therapy. The arts-based approach uses dance, drama, music and visual arts to teach functional English, Mathematics and daily living skills.
Languages is a principal subject area within the Victorian Curriculum. English is the language of instruction. The Personalised Learning Plan supports individualized language development within the curriculum.
Think Equal social-emotional programme is implemented in Early Years to foster self-awareness, empathy and positive relationships. The curriculum includes English and The Arts as core areas, supporting holistic development. The school emphasizes inclusive education and social-emotional growth as part of its approach.
Community initiatives include Phuket outreach, where MIS founders contributed to Laguna Phuket Kindergarten to support inclusive education beyond the campus.
The teaching staff are carefully selected for their qualifications and experience in inclusive education and tailor instruction to individual learners. Teachers collaborate with parents and other support professionals to ensure a holistic approach to education. Ongoing professional development keeps staff up to date with inclusive education practices.
Therapy services are provided, including occupational therapy, physical education and speech and language therapy. The Transition 6 programme offers life-skills and vocational training, including work experience opportunities in areas such as teaching assistant roles, hospitality, digital office, gardening and culinary skills, to prepare older students for life after school.
The school teaches in English. The Victorian Curriculum Foundation to Year 10 is followed. English is one of the eight learning areas, which includes Languages. Speech and language therapy is available as part of Special Needs Education.
2023 Diversity and Inclusive Community Award (Gold):This award acknowledges MIS's dedication to fostering an inclusive community that embraces diversity among students and staff.
2023 Best School for Learning Support (Gold): This recognition highlights MIS's exceptional programs and resources tailored to support students with diverse learning needs.
Enabling Mark Silver:A national-level accreditation framework by SG Enable that benchmarks and recognises organisations for their best practices and outcomes in disability-inclusive employment.
Committee for Private Education (CPE) Registration
• Explanation: The CPE is part of SkillsFuture Singapore, which regulates all private education institutions in Singapore. Registration ensures that the school complies with basic requirements for administration, academic standards, and student welfare.
WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges)
• Explanation: Melbourne International School has been fully accredited by Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
4 years EduTrust certification from 31 May 2025 till 30 May 2029.
• Explanation: The EduTrust Certification Scheme (EduTrust) is a quality assurance scheme administered and governed by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) for Private Education Institutions (PEIs) in Singapore.
doris recommends that you start by speaking to admissions. This connects you directly to the school's admissions team who can respond with answers, more information, and next steps. Documentation Review: The school reviews submitted documents, including previous school reports, medical diagnoses, psychological reports, and therapist evaluations.
Trial Session Observation: Prospective students participate in a trial session where staff observe their social interactions, communication skills, cognitive abilities, and behavior to assess compatibility with the school's environment.
Parent Discussions: MIS engages in discussions with parents to understand their child's short- and long-term objectives, ensuring alignment with the school's offerings.
Collaborative Evaluation: The school collaborates with professional therapists and psychologists to gather additional insights into the student's needs, facilitating a comprehensive support plan.
Application Submission: Parents complete the application form and submit it along with required documents, including identification papers, medical records, and previous educational reports. A non-refundable application fee of S$1,500.00 is required at this stage.
Information regarding scholarship offerings at MIS is not publicly available. Parents interested in potential financial aid or scholarship opportunities should reach out to the school's admissions team for detailed information.
MIS does not publicly specify whether it operates a waitlist or pool system for admissions. Prospective parents are advised to contact the school's admissions office directly to inquire about current enrollment availability and any waiting procedures.