October has been a busy and exciting month for our students. They continue to develop their skills and remain highly engaged in their learning across all subjects. Our autumn leadership camps and excursions took place throughout the month; students have had many opportunities to apply their learning beyond the classroom and strengthen friendships through shared experiences. We are proud of their enthusiasm, curiosity, and growing independence as they embrace every new challenge.
Autumn Excursions and Camps
Grade 1: Shanghai Chen Shan Botanical Gardens
The Grade 1 students enjoyed a delightful autumn excursion where they observed the beauty of nature at Chen Shan Botanical Gardens. They identified and described a variety of plants, including flowers, trees, and even some edible herbs and vegetables. Through this experience, students deepened their understanding of the different types of plant life that flourish during autumn and shared their observations with great enthusiasm.
Grade 2: Ganso Dream World
Our Grade 2 students took their learning beyond the classroom with an exciting visit to Ganso Dream World! During their visit, they applied their math skills by decorating their own individualised cakes. They also explored how cakes are made from start to finish, observing the process of preparation, mixing, baking, packaging. This experience helped students appreciate teamwork and the fascinating journey food takes from factory to table.
Grade 3: Shanghai Zoo
Grade 3 students embarked on an exciting excursion to the zoo to explore the fascinating animals. They observed how different animals are grouped and classified and took note of how the zoo’s layout supports the animal’s needs. Back at school, students applied what they learned by designing creative maps pf their own zoos, thoughtfully planning enclosures, habitats, and visitor paths.
Grade 4: Overnight Camp / Minhang Sports Park
The Grade 4 students had an unforgettable overnight experience at school, where they learned to be more independent and responsible while enjoying the excitement of camping with friends. They took part in team-building games and activities that encouraged collaboration, problem-solving, and resilience. The next day, students continued their adventure with a visit to Minhang Sports Park, where they participated in outdoor challenges that promoted teamwork and a love for physical activity. It was a wonderful experience that strengthened friendships and built confidence in a fun, supportive environment.
Grade 5 students took part in an exciting two-day Leadership Camp designed to strengthen their leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Divided into small groups, they rotated through a series of adventurous challenges, including rock climbing, archery, orienteering, and even starting their own campfire. Guided by the experienced instructors from You Mei Camp Education (YMCE)/Camp Greenwoods, students learned the value of communication, courage, and collaboration while connecting with nature. The camp provided meaningful opportunities for reflection, personal growth, and building strong bonds with classmates through shared outdoor experiences.
Grade 6: Graduation Leadership Camp at Mahota Farm (Peng Lai)
Grade 6 students enjoyed a memorable Graduation Leadership Camp at Mahota Farm in Peng Lai, Shandong Province. Throughout the week, they took part in a variety of hands-on experiences designed to develop leadership, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility. Students explored marine ecology, learned about animal adaptations, and discovered the wine-making process during a vineyard tour. They also taught English to kindergarten children, participated in organic farming, and worked together in team-building challenges. Highlights of the camp included a 10 km hike, a beach clean-up, and a lively bonfire night. The experience provided a meaningful opportunity for students to celebrate their growth and prepare for the next stage of their learning journey.
Grade 5 Students Perform at the “Autism Is Not Alone” Event
Our Grade 5 students performed the theme song at the “Autism Is Not Alone – The Power of Love Always by Your Side”. This was a valuable and meaningful experience for our students as they showcased their musical talents while supporting an important cause.
Throughout this performance, our students not only represented SSIS with pride but also demonstrated empathy, teamwork, and community spirit. The event helped them understand the importance of inclusion and compassion, key values that we nurture as part of our SSIS Learner Attributes.
Video: Autism Is Not Alone
Sabre’s First Friends
Sabre’s First Friends is a new student leadership initiative launched this year. This ambassador programme is designed to equip students with the skills to welcome and connect new members of the SSIS community. In addition to supporting new students, Sabre’s First Friends also organise and facilitate activities that encourage younger students to interact, build friendships, and enjoy positive social experiences. Through this programme, student ambassadors play a vital role in supporting the social and emotional well-being of younger peers by fostering inclusion, friendship, and a strong sense of belonging.
Farm to School
At SSIS, the Primary Farm to School programme brings learning to life through real gardening experiences. Students plant, water, and harvest crops while understanding where food comes from and how nature sustains us. Using natural fertilizers, they nurture healthy plants and will also learn about composting to create rich, healthy soil. The garden becomes their outdoor classroom, building responsibility, curiosity, and teamwork. It’s a vibrant, hands-on way to grow both food and future changemakers.
Parent Volunteer Coffee Morning: Getting Involved at SSIS
On Wednesday, 29 October, our community came together for a special Parent Coffee Morning titled “How to Get Involved.” It was heartening to see so many parents eager to share their time, talents, and energy in support of our school.
The morning began with a warm gathering at the Book Tree, where school leaders shared the many ways parents can contribute—whether by helping during events, supporting classroom activities, or offering their unique skills behind the scenes. A short training session followed, equipping volunteers with the tools and knowledge they need to confidently step into their roles.
Whether volunteering once or on a regular basis, our parent volunteers play a vital role in enriching student experiences and strengthening the school-home partnership. We are grateful for your commitment and look forward to seeing you in action across campus!
Parent Volunteer Coffee Morning
Key Dates in November
3rd November – Field Day: Grades 1&2 (8:40-10:40), Grades 3-6 (11:00-3:30)
3rd November – PEP ‘Understanding the UK University Application Process‘（Online 19:00-20:00）（G6）
4th November – SAS Football (Grade 3)
5th November – SAS Football (Grade 4)
6th November – SAS Football (Grade 5)
15th November – International Family Bazaar (IFB)
18th-19th November – Dave Studio Photo-Taking
24th November – PEP ‘The Impact of Teeth on Facial Profile, Pronunciation, and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders’ (in Chinese)
24th November – Parent Coffee Afternoon ‘Executive Function Skills: Helping Kids Stay Organised and Focused’
24th November – Student of Term Awards
24th November – PEP ‘Applying to US Universities: What You Need to know‘ (Online 19:00-20:00) （G6）
27th November – Parent Coffee Morning ‘Surviving Adolescence‘（G5-6）
29th November – Parent Teacher Conferences（PTC）
