An IGCSE Celebration
This week, our hearts swell with immense pride as we celebrate the phenomenal achievements of our most recent IGCSE class! Once again, they have not only met the high standards of this rigorous programme but have soared past them, demonstrating a level of excellence that fills our entire SSIS community with joy. These outstanding results are not merely numbers on a page; they are vibrant testaments to the incredible partnership between our gifted students and our devoted teachers, a partnership that truly makes SSIS a special place to learn and grow.
Let us take a moment to shine a light on the students themselves, whose individual stories of success collectively inspire us all. We celebrate the quiet determination of our science scholars who transform complex scientific concepts into masterpieces of understanding. We applaud the creative brilliance of our young historians and geographers, whose essays were not just factually precise but profoundly analytical. And we cheer for the passionate literary critics in this grade level, who dissect classic texts with the wisdom of seasoned scholars. All different subjects, yet all our students are united by a shared grit, an insatiable passion for knowledge, and a genuine love of learning that will serve them for a lifetime.
Behind every one of these shining successes stands a dedicated SSIS teacher, our unsung heroes who illuminate the path. What makes their role so extraordinary is that we are a non-selective school; our teachers meet every student exactly where they are. They are the architects of confidence, the mentors who spend countless hours before and after school, patiently guiding, encouraging, and unlocking potential. They see not just a student, but a whole person, and they tailor their wisdom to nurture every spark of curiosity.
This beautiful synergy, the students’ unwavering effort met with the teachers’ selfless dedication, is the very heartbeat of SSIS. It is a powerful reminder that here, we achieve not in isolation, but as a family. As we look at these wonderful results, we are not just looking at academic scores; we are witnessing the blossoming of character, resilience, and a lifelong love for learning. Congratulations to our phenomenal students and our invaluable teachers; together, you have proven that at SSIS, greatness is not just achieved, it is cultivated with care and celebrated with heart.
David SHIRLEY, Head of School
Shanghai Singapore International School
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NOV – Subject: Parent-Teacher Conferences and Term 1 Reports
Dear Parents,
I hope this message finds you well.
Thank you for booking appointments with us at PTC to talk about your child’s progress and wellbeing in school. Term 1 was a great start to the school year, and a reflection and review of the school report is important as your child navigates Term 2.
Supporting Your Child After Receiving Their School Report
A school report is an opportunity to celebrate progress, reflect on growth, and plan the next steps together. Here are a few simple ways parents can support their child at home:
1. Start with the Positives
Begin by celebrating achievements no matter how small. Highlight effort, improvement, or positive comments from teachers. This helps your child feel valued and motivated.
2. Talk — Don’t Lecture
Invite your child to share how they feel about their results. Keep the conversation calm and encouraging. Ask open questions like:
- Which subject do you feel proud of?
- What do you think helped you improve here?
- What could make next term even better?
3. Focus on Effort and Habits
Reports reflect not just grades but learning attitudes. Praise persistence, organisation, and curiosity; qualities that lead to long-term success.
4. Set Realistic Goals Together
Work with your child to set a few practical goals for the next term, such as improving time management, reading more regularly, or seeking extra help in a specific subject.
5. Keep in Touch with Teachers
If something is unclear, or you’d like to discuss support strategies, reach out to teachers. Schools and families work best in partnership.
6. Encourage a Healthy Balance
Remind your child that school success also depends on good rest, nutrition, and time for hobbies and friends. Balance helps motivation and wellbeing.
7. Use Available Resources
Encourage use of school-recommended materials and online resources like BBC Bitesize, Khan Academy, or subject-specific revision sites to reinforce learning.
8. Celebrate Success
Take time to recognise what your child has achieved both academically and personally. This could be a good grade, consistent effort, improved attitude, or positive teacher feedback. Celebration builds confidence and reinforces the idea that effort leads to success.
- Praise specific achievements (“You worked so hard on your essay planning – it really shows!”).
- Mark the moment with a small reward or shared family activity.
- Display reports or certificates proudly at home; it shows that learning is valued.
Ms. Shireen NAIDOO
shireen_naidoo@ssis.asia
Assistant Principal/IB English A Teacher
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Grades 7-8 Lower Secondary Programme
The Senior School welcomed the Grade 6 Students for a ‘Taster Session’ and Introduction to Senior School Life. The Grade 6 students were carefully chaperoned by Grade 7 Students and introduced some exciting lessons and concepts covered in the Senior School. A selection of Grade 7 students also performed in front of Grade 6 parents – demonstrating their growth in confidence since being in the Senior School.
An important event to look forward to is the Grade 8 IGCSE Subject Selection Sessions. On Monday, December 1 will be the introduction of IGCSE subjects to Grade 8 students. Please spend time talking to your child to help them reflect on and build on the work being done with the students at school. There will also be a presentation to parents on Saturday, November 29 and I strongly welcome all parents to attend.
Mr. David HERRING
david_herring@ssis.asia
Lower Secondary Programme Coordinator/Geography & Social Studies Teacher
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Grade 9-10 IGCSE
Wednesday 26 November saw the IGCSE Awards and Recognition Ceremony, a celebration of the achievements of our IGCSE class of 2025. They were amazingly successful, with approximately 61% of 323 entries resulting in A*/A grades! These results are exceptional and stand as a testament to the hard work and talents of our students, as well as the support offered by our committed teachers and our valued parent community.
Our students have truly embodied the qualities that lead to academic excellence. They approached their studies with dedication, curiosity, and a genuine passion for learning. Beyond their personal drive, they demonstrated the humility and mindset essential for continuous improvement—seeking feedback, embracing challenges and welcoming opportunities to extend their learning. Their remarkable achievements reflect not only their effort, but also the positive attitudes and habits of mind that define success.
Our Grade 10 students have begun the process of exploring their IBDP options, guided by Ms. Arathi and the UG team. Over the coming days, they will be receiving mini presentations from various subject teachers to give them the information they need to make informed decisions. Please take some time to talk with them about these important decisions and note that there will be a presentation for parents on the morning of November 29, during the PTC, in which Ms. Arathi and the UG team will provide key information to parents.
Mr. Andrew COLE
andrew_cole@ssis.asia
IGCSE & ToK Coordinator/ IGCSE & IBDP English Teacher
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IBDP
Grade 12 Updates
Our Grade 12 students have reached an important milestone with the successful submission of their Extended Essays. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and consistent hard work. As they now turn their focus to the remaining IA and TOK deadlines, we kindly ask for parent encouragement at home. Your support plays a key role in maintaining their well-being and motivation during this busy period. We are also delighted to share that some of our students have received university offers and we will be announcing these wonderful achievements very soon.
Grade 11 Update
Grade 11 students have settled well into the IBDP, showing responsibility and enthusiasm as they adapt to the academic expectations of the programme. We are pleased to see them actively participating in school events and engaging in meaningful CAS experiences. Beyond their academic commitment, many have been actively participating in ACAMIS events, contributing creatively to drama productions, and taking on leadership roles in the Student Council.
Ms. Arathi PV
arathi_pv@ssis.asia
IBDP Coordinator/ Head of Science / IBDP Chemistry Teacher
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Key Dates:
Nov 29 – Parent Teacher Conferences
Dec 2 – Character and Leadership Awards Assembly
Dec 3 – Winter Magic (Tree Lighting)
Dec 3 & Dec 4 – ‘Home Alone’ Production
Dec 19 – Winter Variety Show
Dec 20 to Jan 4 – Winter Break (School Closed)
Jan 5 – Return to School
