Some schools create a strong academic culture, while others pay more attention to well-being and mindfulness. At HAIS, we prioritise both – and that’s what sets us apart.

Figuratively, if you think of a set of scales balanced equally, our approach to education is to see academic excellence on one side and emotional well-being on the other.

And the all-bearing pillar that pulls them both together? Community.

Why a Balance is Needed?

Children today have grown up in a world where they have experienced the strangeness of a global pandemic. It’s pretty profound. And it’s why leaning into emotional well-being but continuing to value academics is so important.

At HAIS, we see academic success and emotional well-being as interdependent. We know that without the emotional tools to manage challenging circumstances (such as exams), academic performance can suffer. In the same vein, without a solid foundation of knowledge and academic skills, students may struggle to articulate their thoughts and emotions – impacting their sense of well-being.

Our approach at HAIS is to balance both academic learning and well-being and to recognise that they are not mutually exclusive but rather in symbiosis. We’ve noticed that small adjustments to the day-to-day curriculum can release the pressure valves and any tension build up – and we have created a bespoke environment and curriculum where children and teenagers go from not just coping – but thriving.

Teaching Methods

Our Principal, Mr Brett holds a firm position on this ethos. “A balance in education – and in life – is crucial. As teachers, we are investing in young people who benefit tremendously from our guidance, so it’s really important that we provide a well-rounded education to have an impact.”

“When we pay careful attention to our students – we learn how to meet their needs, align our teaching to their preferences, and bolster their understanding.”

During a recent teacher induction presentation, Mr Brett emphasised the importance of the teacher learning style and passion in connecting the subject matter to the student, saying; “Students don’t just learn subjects, they learn teachers.” He articulated the idea that it isn’t just the subject at hand being taught, but also largely their teacher’s method of delivery.

Across the curriculum, our teachers are remarkably versatile in the way they engage students in each subject. While some students might be more ‘left-brained’ or logical and analytical thinkers, others might naturally be more ‘right-brained’ – and feel more engaged in verbal communication, creativity and connecting with others. To enable all these students to flourish, our teachers use a range of methods.

Well Being

Our theme for this year, ‘Stay Grounded, Keep Growing’ is a tagline we will refer to throughout the year in our Pastoral Programme, in academics and in sports. We have built the foundations – the strong footing – over the last five years, and are ready to watch our students feel emotionally grounded to thrive and grow with confidence.

At HAIS we make a considered effort to notice, praise efforts and give gratitude to those who we see being kind to themselves and caring for others who might still be struggling.

We support student’s well-being in our homeroom programmes, Thursday morning Pastoral Care programme, sector assemblies, House systems and extracurricular activities.

Academic Rigour

At the same time, we believe that academic rigour is also essential for student success. We have high expectations of our students because we want them to achieve their best and our Cambridge curriculum is designed to challenge and prepare them for success in higher education and beyond.

We are proud of our student’s achievements. Just this year our 2023 Year 11 students achieved an overwhelming 89% A* – C grades in their IGCSE qualifications.

Reflecting on the grades Secondary Learning Lead Ms Hannah said; “It’s seeing the hard work and tenacity of the students that sustains me as a teacher every day.”

Community

It really does take a village. Bringing it all together here at HAIS is our community of leadership, staff, and families. We’ve noticed that our young people at the school, employees and parents want to help our students thrive and learn.

The experience of bringing a child up in Hoi An and the surrounding region can really form one’s character in a positive way. Growing up in a small, connected community from a variety of cultures teaches you a lot about the world. One of them is that you get to know a whole spectrum of people, listen to different voices and understand that a community is made up of people from all walks of life.

You learn to have an open mind, to listen and tolerate people who have different perspectives, and these are most certainly skills that will benefit you not just for today or for the next five years, but for lifelong success.