Hoi An International School

Upper Secondary – IGCSE

Our curriculum is designed to be internationally-minded, flexible, academically challenging and motivating. Our approach combines the development of knowledge and understanding with cultivating higher-order thinking skills. This approach leads to well-rounded learners who can integrate into studies in a variety of contexts. 

The transferable skills and extensive subject knowledge learners develop while studying at HAIS equips them with the foundational learning base needed to engage in any curriculum. As one of the most popular choices globally, the Cambridge International Curriculum used at HAIS provides excellent preparation for the next stage of a Cambridge International education, Cambridge Advanced, as well as other progression routes.

In the upper secondary stage, students undertake the IGCSE Programme which extends over two years.

 

Core Subjects


English

First Language


English

Cambridge IGCSE First Language English is designed for students whose first language is English.

The course enables students to:

  • Develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively when speaking and writing;
  • Use a wide range of vocabulary and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation;
  • Develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.

Students are also encouraged to read widely, both for their enjoyment and to further their awareness of the ways in which English can be used. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English also develops more general analysis and communication skills such as inference and the ability to order facts and present opinions effectively.

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English

Second Language


English

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language develops skills for understanding and communicating in a range of situations in English. These skills include the ability to understand written and spoken texts, and select relevant information from them. Learners develop the linguistic skills required for progression to further studies or employment through being able to communicate clearly in writing and speaking, on both familiar and less familiar topics.

The course enables students to:

  • Understand and use English in a range of situations;
  • Build awareness of the nature of language and the four language-learning skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking; and
  • Develop transferable skills to complement other areas of the curriculum.
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English Literature


English Literature

This subject enables learners to read, interpret and evaluate texts through the study of literature in English. Learners develop an understanding of literal meaning, relevant contexts and the deeper themes or attitudes that may be expressed. 

The course enables students to:

  • Enjoy the experience of reading literature;
  • Understand and respond to literary texts in different forms and from different periods and cultures;
  • Communicate an informed personal response appropriately and effectively;
  • Appreciate different ways in which writers achieve their effects;
  • Experience literature’s contribution to aesthetic, imaginative and intellectual growth; and
  • Explore the contribution of literature to an understanding of areas of human concern.
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Mathematics


Mathematics

An essential subject for all learners, Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics encourages the development of mathematical knowledge as a key life skill and a solid basis for more advanced study. 

The course enables learners to:

  • Develop competence and fluency with mathematical concepts, methods and skills, as well as a feel for numbers, patterns and relationships;
  • Gain confidence in solving problems in mathematics and real-life contexts;
  • Develops mathematical reasoning and communication skills by promoting appropriate presentation and interpretation of results; and
  • Gain an understanding of how to communicate and reason using mathematical concepts.
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Co-ordinated
Sciences


Co-ordinated
Sciences

Cambridge IGCSE Co-ordinated Sciences gives learners the opportunity to study Biology, Chemistry and Physics within a cross-referenced, scientifically coherent syllabus. It is a double award qualification, earning two grades. Learners gain an understanding of the basic principles of each subject through a mix of theoretical and practical studies while also developing an understanding of the scientific skills essential for further study.

They learn how science is studied and practised and become aware that scientific research results can have both good and bad effects on individuals, communities and the environment. As well as focusing on the individual sciences, the syllabus helps learners to understand the technological world in which they live and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments.

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Non-Core Subjects


Global Perspectives


Global Perspectives

Cambridge IGCSE Global Perspectives is a groundbreaking and stimulating course that stretches across traditional subject boundaries and develops transferable skills. It is both cross-curricular and skills-based and taps into the way learners of today enjoy learning, including teamwork, presentations, projects, and working with other learners around the world. The emphasis is on developing the ability to think critically about a range of global issues where there is always more than one point of view.

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Art and Design


Art and Design

Art and Design gives learners a platform to express themselves, sparking imagination, creativity, and developing transferable skills. Students explore and push boundaries to become reflective, critical and decisive thinkers. They learn how to articulate personal responses to their experiences.

What will students learn?

  • Develop creative skills that will help with many aspects of their future learning and development;
  • Learn to see themselves as artists and become increasingly reflective and independent;
  • Develop the skills needed to express ideas creatively and to communicate visually;
  • Understand their place and the place of others in a creative, innovative and interconnected world.
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French

(Foreign Language)


French

French as a foreign language aims to develop an ability to use the French language effectively for practical communication. The course is based on the linked language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, and these are built on as learners progress through their studies. In addition, the course also offers insights into the culture of countries where French is spoken, thus encouraging positive attitudes towards language learning and towards speakers of other languages.

Course Aims
This is a multi-skill course that develops speaking, listening, reading and writing abilities. The aims are to enable students to:

  • Develop the language proficiency required to communicate effectively in French at a basic and independent level
  • Offer insights into the culture and society of countries and communities where French is spoken
  • Develop an awareness of the nature of language and language learning
  • Encourage positive attitudes towards speakers of other languages and a sympathetic approach to other cultures
  • Provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation
  • Develop transferable skills such as memorising and drawing of inferences
  • Form a sound base of the skills, language and attitudes required for progression to work or further study, either in French or another subject area.
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ICT


ICT

This course develops students’ understanding of the implications of technology on home, work and learning environments. Students also cover theoretical and practical areas of ICT such as ethics, software applications, databases and website design. 

Learners will analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate ICT systems, making sure that they are fit for their purpose. There is an emphasis on developing lifelong skills, which are essential across the curriculum and their future career.

The course enables learners to:

  • Gain an understanding of the basic components, use and application of different ICT systems and networks;
  • Develop the skills to analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate ICT systems;
  • Develop the skills to understand the impact of current and new technologies on methods of working in the outside world; and
  • Develop the ability to recognise potential risks when using ICT, and use safe, secure and responsible practice.
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Enterprise


Enterprise

Enterprise brings the world of business into the classroom and gives students an insight into what it means to think like an entrepreneur. Students learn to adopt the thoughts and actions of entrepreneurs, developing their knowledge and understanding of the practicalities of setting up and running their own new enterprise. Students are equipped with a range of life skills for use in planning and organisation, communication and financial management.

The course enables learners to:

  • Understand what it means to be enterprising, and the skills required to be enterprising;
  • Develop the ability to work in an enterprising and independent way;
  • Develop and apply knowledge, understanding and skills to contemporary enterprise issues in a range of local, national and global contexts;
  • Investigate the world of work and entrepreneurial organisations;
  • Develop the ability to communicate effectively, in a variety of situations, using a range of appropriate techniques; and
  • Make effective use of relevant terms, concepts and methods when discussing enterprise and enterprising behaviour.
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History


History

Cambridge IGCSE History looks at some of the major international issues of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and covers the history of particular regions and events in more depth.

The course enables learners to develop:

  • An interest in and enthusiasm for learning about the past;
  • The acquisition of knowledge and understanding of individuals, people and societies in the past;
  • The knowledge that is rooted in an understanding of the nature and use of historical evidence;
  • An understanding of key historical concepts: cause and consequence, change and continuity, and similarity and difference;
  • A sound basis for further study and the pursuit of personal interest;
  • International understanding; and
  • Historical skills, including investigation, analysis, evaluation and communication skills.
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Non-Examination Subjects


Music


Music

Music fosters creativity and builds confidence. It helps learners to express themselves and shows them the importance of communication as they learn to connect with other musicians and with audiences.

Learners explore music as performers, composers and informed listeners. They make, understand and appreciate music from different cultures, times and places, helping them to develop leadership and collaboration skills as well as self-confidence.

What will students learn?

  • To cultivate a joy of music through participating in meaningful and enjoyable experiences;
  • To develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to contribute as musicians;
  • To collaborate with others in purposeful and expressive ways through singing and playing instruments;
  • To nurture their individual and collective creativity;
  • To use their growing knowledge to explore and generate music that is unique, relevant and valuable.
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Physical
Education


Physical
Education

Physical Education is a vital part of a balanced school curriculum. Regular exercise improves physical and mental health and there is growing evidence that it improves academic performance across the curriculum.

Learners develop skills through a wide variety of age-appropriate physical activities, including games, team sports, gymnastics, swimming and dance.

What will students learn?

  • Increase confidence, moving with increasing control, fluency and variety;
  • Improve their understanding of concepts, rules, tactics, strategies and compositional ideas;
  • Participate in respectful and responsible ways, engaging appropriately and safely;
  • Improve knowledge and understanding of how physical education can contribute to a healthy and active lifestyle;
  • Develop transferable skills promoting physical, cognitive, and social development, and become independent, critical and reflective movers and thinkers.
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Balint Kocsis

International Vice Principal, Secondary English, Literature Teacher & Enterprise Teacher

Balint Kocsis

International Vice Principal, Secondary English, Literature Teacher & Enterprise Teacher

Years of Teaching Experience: 11+
Degree & Certifications: M.A. in Applied Linguistics and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), B.A. of Business Administration, Certified Teacher – Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, American Teacher’s Certification ABCTE (Secondary English Language Arts) – USA, Programme Leader – Cambridge International Certificate in Teaching and Learning.

With a career in teaching and leading Cambridge learners, Balint brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in leading successful literacy initiatives, a personal passion of his. Under the HAIS Continuing Professional Development programme Balint completed professional development training in CPD Leadership: Strategy, Dyslexia Awareness, Marking & Feedback, Effective Lesson Planning and EAL for Classroom Teachers in support of increased technical awareness across the HAIS faculty.

He leads a team of dedicated educators who share a strong commitment to academic and pastoral excellence. Balint has completed several Cambridge training courses, including  IGCSE First Language English, Business Studies, and AS General Paper English and is a Cambridge Assessment Specialist for IGCSE First Language English. He is proud to be part of our devoted team of accomplished Cambridge IGCSE teachers and looks forward to guiding our IGCSE students to achieve successful results this year.

Fun Fact: Balint is a lifetime member of the U.S. Chess Federation and used to play to a 5-handicap in golf.

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Hannah Lord

Secondary Learning Lead, English Language & Literature and Global Perspectives Teacher

Hannah Lord

Secondary Learning Lead, English Language & Literature and Global Perspectives Teacher

Years of Teaching Experience: 6+
Degree & Certifications: B.A. with Honours in Politics, PGCE, Cambridge Assessment International Education course in IGCSE Literature in English.

Hannah gained both a BA degree and a teaching certificate in the UK before moving overseas, and in 2022, she will complete her Masters in Education. In 2020, Hannah completed a Cambridge Assessment International Education course in IGCSE Literature in English.

Under the HAIS Continuing Professional Development programme Hannah completed professional development training in Dyslexia Awareness, Marking & Feedback and facilitated training in EAL for Classroom Teachers.

Hannah always enjoyed learning and being in education as a student, so progressing to a teacher, where she gets to share that enjoyment with others, seemed like a logical career choice. Her teaching philosophy is to create an environment where students feel moved to learn – engaged learners are motivated learners. 

Fun Fact: Hannah has two cats and one dog, the best pets ever.

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Mark Reeve

IGCSE Science & Mathematics & Environmental Management Teacher, Year 10 Homeroom Teacher

Mark Reeve

IGCSE Science & Mathematics & Environmental Management Teacher, Year 10 Homeroom Teacher

Years of Teaching Experience: 9+
Degree & Certifications: MSc Chemistry with Industrial Experience, PGCE Secondary Science with Chemistry specialism.

Mark has been teaching in Vietnam for 6 years already and is the new maths and science teacher for the HAIS IGCSE programme. Mark has high expectations for all his students in the IGCSE programme. Mark really enjoys running practical experiments in science, in particular in the field of chemistry. Mark used to teach in Vũng Tàu before coming to HAIS, and in Mongolia before that. Before going into education, he used to work in water hygiene and treatment. 

Mark decided to become a teacher after volunteering to help visually impaired children back in the United Kingdom called Visually Impaired Children – Taking Action or VICTA.  Mark is very happy about teaching at HAIS and looks forward to his time in the school.

Fun Fact:
The faster you are moving, the longer time takes to go by, and the shorter distance becomes. Hard to believe, but it’s true. Last summer my wife and I drove from Hà Nội to Vũng Tàu on motorbikes that cost us less than 5 million VND. Mine is still going strong. POWERRRRRRRRR!!!!

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Lam Le Tien

Year 10 Teaching Assistant

Lam Le Tien

Year 10 Teaching Assistant

Years of Teaching Experience: New to Teaching!
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies

Tien has always loved to learn about new things and share them with others. When asked what kind of job she would see herself doing, working in the field of Education was one of her top choices as it allows her to do what she enjoys and provide support to young learners.

Prior to joining HAIS, Tien helped her niece with English homework every week for almost a year. Also, with a background in Environmental Science, she has started a podcast talking about environmental issues in Vietnam. She hopes to combine these experiences to assist HAIS in achieving their sustainability goals, whether via teaching or school activities. 

Her teaching style is allowing students to express themselves freely without feeling they’re being judged, and to always feel comfortable to ask questions about ideas that are introduced to them.

Fun Fact: Tien is a “crazy cat lady” and was a vegetarian for 2 years.

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Daniel Maguire

A Level Student Support Coordinator, Secondary ICT, Commerce & Global Perspectives Teacher

Daniel Maguire

A Level Student Support Coordinator, Secondary ICT, Commerce & Global Perspectives Teacher

Years of Teaching Experience: 11+
Degree & Certifications: B.A. in Education (Mathematics and History), Cambridge Introductory Training – Lower Secondary Mathematics, Cambridge Extension Training – IGCSE Mathematics.

Dan received his Bachelor’s of Education from the University of Western Ontario, then taught for four years in Canada, before coming to Vietnam. In 2020, he completed two Cambridge training courses: Cambridge Introductory Training – Lower Secondary Mathematics and Cambridge Extension Training – IGCSE Mathematics.

Under the HAIS Continuing Professional Development programme, Dan completed professional development training in Dyslexia Awareness, Marking & Feedback, EAL for Classroom Teachers, Understanding Stress and How to Manage it, Effective Self Care and Positive Relationships.

Dan became a teacher with the simple goal of demystifying Math for all students, so they can enjoy it and be successful. He has since realised that being a teacher goes beyond demystification and that the fundamental mission of education is to help students realise their own goals, and become happy, fulfilled and contributing members of the community.

Fun Fact:
Dan is a big fan of NBA basketball, he has two dogs, Carlos and Omar, and you can usually hear music playing from his classroom while he prepares lessons.

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Luke Ferch

Secondary English, ESL & History Teacher

Luke Ferch

Secondary English, ESL & History Teacher

Years of Teaching Experience: 10+
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of TESOL; Washington D.C. Teaching License 

When in university, Luke had a passion for new languages and cultures. Studying a degree in how to teach English seemed a natural pathway to experience those things. However, his first experiences as a student teacher is what really cemented his love for education. Watching students explore a topic, helping them to find their own voices and seeing the impacts of learning grow and shape them is a truly rewarding experience that he has enjoyed since his first day. 

As a former international school student myself, I have unique insight into what students are going through. I try to use that insight to meet my students’ needs and make learning an enjoyable experience for them. 

With more than ten years of teaching experience and as a father now, Luke feels he has the skills, insight and understanding to create a fulfilling educational experience for our students.

Luke believe that a classroom should first and foremost be a safe place for students to express themselves and take risks. He finds the best learning takes place when students are confident to make mistakes and learn from them.

Following this, having high standards for both himself and his students is very important. In his experience, students rise to meet expectations and even exceed them when encouraged and motivated to do so. For this reason, he believes in pushing his students to stretch themselves beyond what they are comfortable with.

Fun Fact: Luke’s passions involve stories in any shape or form, whether they be in books, movies, games or various other types of media. He enjoys hobby writing, and hopes to one day publish his own novel.

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Marianne Deporte

IGCSE ESL & French Teacher

Marianne Deporte

IGCSE ESL & French Teacher

Years of Teaching Experience: 10+
Degrees & Certifications: Bachelor of Arts in English and American Language, Literature and Civilization; CELTA; PGCE

Marianne became a teacher later in life, after working several years as a recruitment consultant in Human Resources and training firms. She ran a variety of recruitment and training campaigns for her clients before realising her true calling was teaching. She completed her CELTA in Hanoi and her PGCE with Sunderland University, Northumberland, UK.

Marianne completed her practicum at a prestigious IB school in HCMC before starting as a Primary ESL teacher at another international school in HCMC. After that, she ran the French/English bilingual classes at the French international school in HCMC. When these closed, she joined another IB school as the PYP and MYP ESL teacher before moving to Hoi An and joining HAIS.

At HAIS she teaches French in Primary and Lower Secondary, IGCSE French and IGCSE ESL.

Fun Fact: Marianne, encouraged by her two children, has a tendency to adopt all the cats that come into her garden.

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Tran Vu Thi Thuy Anh

Science Lab Technician

Tran Vu Thi Thuy Anh

Science Lab Technician

Years of Teaching Experience: 3+
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of Education in Teaching Chemistry

Through her study of science at University, Jasmine is well prepared to work as a Science Lab Technician and she feels her personality thoroughly suits the role.

By taking a leap of faith to move to a totally unfamiliar environment, she has increased her adaptability and flexibility. Moreover, in order to fulfil the job requirements, she has also improved her management capability, with the goal of becoming a Laboratory Coordinator in the future.

Her educational philosophy is: “By learning we will teach; by teaching we will learn”

Fun Fact: If you are lucky, you will see her driving a motorbike with a chubby Corgi that she “kidnapped” from her neighbourhood.

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Specialist Subjects Teachers

Frances Dobson

Specialist Subjects Learning Lead, Art Teacher, Year 11 Homeroom Teacher

Frances Dobson

Specialist Subjects Learning Lead, Art Teacher, Year 11 Homeroom Teacher

Years of Teaching Experience: 11+
Degree & Certifications: B.A. (Fine Arts), PGCE, Developmental Lesson Observation.

Frances has taught Art and Design across a range of age groups in both the UK and Hong Kong. She is a skilled painter and drawer and also enjoys printmaking, mixed media, conceptual art and ceramics. She brings a wide range of experience and expertise to the classroom, including the ability to instruct students across a broad range of techniques and processes. 

Under the HAIS Continuing Professional Development programme, Frances completed professional development training in Dyslexia Awareness, EAL for Classroom Teachers, Tackling Low-Level Disruption and Developmental Lesson Observation.

Frances believes in the importance of providing outlets for creative expression at all ages. She feels that the HAIS programmes allow students to learn the fundamental elements of art and explore, experiment, and build on that knowledge, refining their skills as they progress from EYFS into primary, secondary and beyond.

Fun Fact: Frances loves to travel and has visited 37 countries in the last nine years. She is also an accomplished musician and plays piano and violin.

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Yoann Labrue

Physical Education Teacher, Swimming Instructor, Year 7 Homeroom Teacher

Yoann Labrue

Physical Education Teacher, Swimming Instructor, Year 7 Homeroom Teacher

Years of Teaching Experience: 11+
Degree & Certifications: M.S. in Sports and Physical Education, M.A. in American Studies, Teaching Training and Certification Program (Physical Education), AustSwim Accreditation – Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety.

After completing his Master’s in Sports Education, Yoann spent one year in America as a teaching assistant. He then obtained a Master’s degree in American Studies. Yoann has a wide-range of experience with children in varying posts such as lifeguard, camp counsellor, coach, and most recently, as a PE teacher in Hanoi for six years. In early 2021, Yoann completed a Cambridge Assessment International Education course in Primary Physical Education. 

Under the HAIS Continuing Professional Development programme, Yoann completed professional development training in Dyslexia Awareness, EAL for Classroom Teachers, the Teacher Development Program and Middle Leadership Essentials.

Yoann decided to become a PE teacher because he wanted to share his love of sports with children and encourage healthy, active lifestyles. His teaching philosophy centres around teaching students how to be physically active, not just as youth, but to provide them with the tools and knowledge to remain healthy and active throughout their lives.

Fun Fact: Yoann participated in the World Championship of Ping Pong in London in 2013; it was shown live on SkySports TV

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Tass Petridis

Secondary Music Teacher

Tass Petridis

Secondary Music Teacher

Years of Teaching Experience: 25+
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of Music

Becoming a teacher and educator has blessed Tass with the opportunity to not only teach the facts, but also have some form of impact as a mentor to a student’s development and inspire them to learn to think. In the process, it has also provided him with great real-life communication skills.

Fun Fact: Tass’ family is from Greece! He also enjoys fitness and composing in his home studio.

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Le Gia Huy

Physical Education Teaching Assistant, Aquatics Manager

Le Gia Huy

Physical Education Teaching Assistant, Aquatics Manager

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Katherine Brewer

Head Librarian

Katherine Brewer

Head Librarian

Years of Teaching Experience: 10+
Degree & Certifications: Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education; Masters in Librarian and Information Science

Katya has over a decade of teaching experience in public and private schools in the United States and internationally in Europe and Asia.

She began her teaching career as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Bulgaria from  2005-2007. This experience gave her an appreciation for exploring other languages and cultures.  

Katya also has experience in bilingual education. Four years ago, she was a founding member of a new bilingual school in Shanghai, China.  She founded the library programme for both bilingual and international students.

Fun Fact: Katya loves to travel and looks forward to exploring Vietnam. She also enjoys running and swimming in her spare time.

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Nguyen Thi Thuy An

Assistant Librarian

Nguyen Thi Thuy An

Assistant Librarian

Years of Teaching Experience: 2+
Degree & Certifications: Certificate of Training in Library and Information Competence; Bachelor of Tourism & Hospitality Management

After earning a Bachelors in Tourism & Hospitality Management, Thuy An realized that her passion is in education, so she has been pursuing this career and constantly improving herself. Thuy An has been working as an Assistant Librarian at HAIS for 2 years now. She loves working with students, in education and with books, which led her to this job.

Fun Fact: Thuy An loves dancing although she feels she is not really good at it. She enjoys reading and running in her spare time.

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