[From Primary to A Level at HAIS] Every child’s educational journey begins with an important decision made by their family. Eight years ago, Ms Hoàng Lê Hằng, mother of Alex Minh, made a decision to entrust Hoi An International School with Alex’s academic progression, and the results speak for themselves.  For Ms Hoàng Lê Hằng, mother of Alex Minh, their past 8 years at Hoi An International School (HAIS) from Year 4 to A Level have been shaped by trust, understanding, and steady growth.

In the conversation below, Ms Hằng shares her personal reflections on the learning environment at HAIS, where Alex Minh is currently studying the A Level programme, and the values the school has nurtured in both her child and her family.

Could you tell us a little about yourself and your family’s journey with HAIS?

My name is Hoàng Lê Hằng, and I live and work in Hoi An in the hospitality and tourism sector. I am the mother of Alex Minh, who is currently studying in the A Level programme at Hoi An International School.

Alex joined HAIS in Year 4, and our family has been part of the school community for almost eight years, dating back to the school’s early days.

What mattered most to you when choosing a school for your child?

For me, the decision came down to two key priorities: emotional safety and allowing my child to develop naturally, in line with his personality, strengths, and aspirations.

I truly believe that when children feel safe, respected, and understood, they gain the confidence to explore, take risks in learning, and grow in a balanced and healthy way.

What made HAIS feel like the right fit for Alex Minh?

From our very first visit, I had a strong feeling that Alex’s personality aligned well with the environment at HAIS. After nearly eight years, that initial feeling has only grown stronger.

HAIS is a caring and human centred learning environment, where teachers genuinely know their students and encourage them to express themselves confidently in whichever fields they are passionate about. Academic development is important, but what stands out to me is how the school also nurtures kindness, empathy, and a sense of responsibility towards others.

How have you seen Alex Minh grow during his time at HAIS?

Over the years, I have seen Alex make clear academic progress, mature significantly in character, and develop physically and holistically.

One particularly proud moment for our family was when Alex received the Cambridge Outstanding Learner Award for IGCSE Travel and Tourism. This achievement not only reflected Alex’s hard work, but also highlighted the strong academic guidance and close support provided by the teachers at HAIS.

What values do you feel HAIS offers students today?

What I truly appreciate about HAIS is the way it balances Vietnamese cultural identity with a global outlook. Although it is an international school, students regularly take part in activities that celebrate Vietnamese traditions, and the spirit of Hoi An can be felt throughout the campus in thoughtful and meaningful ways.

At the same time, HAIS has a culturally diverse community, giving students daily opportunities to learn from one another, respect differences, and broaden their worldviews.

Today, Alex Minh continues his journey in the A Level programme at HAIS, where he is being carefully guided academically and well prepared for university life ahead. As a parent who has walked alongside the school for many years, I am confident that HAIS will continue to be a place where students grow not only in knowledge, but also in character, confidence and purpose.

Discover more about HAIS IGCSE and A Level program here and contact Admissions team for further assistance.