To what degree are parents kept informed?
Part of our admissions criteria include that families want to be part of their child's education. We therefore value and expect open communication between teachers and parents. Parents are encouraged to stay in touch via e-mail or via the student's communication booklet.
What time does school start and finish?
Students can arrive 8.45am onward. Classes then begin at 9am and finish at 2pm for students in Elementary School. Students in Middle and High School finish at 3pm. Extra-curricular activities start 2pm onwards on specific days. Please click here for more information on ECA schedules.
Is IIS a school for Children with Special Needs only?
IIS is a mainstream, international school. We are honored to be one out of only two internatinal schools to offer a special needs or support stream. This stream is also known as S.T.A.R.S., which stands for "Specialized Teaching And Responsive Students" and so aptly reflects our approach. Children in the S.T.A.R.S. stream learn in their own classrooms but also enjoy interactions with mainstream students during assemblies, school events/outings and school projects.
How does IIS group students in the S.T.A.R.S. Stream?
At IIS, our Special Needs Educators assess each student not only according to chronological age but also develeopmental ability. The advantage of the S.T.A.R.S. Stream is that students, if necessary, can start at a lower grade to ensure a smooth adjustment. When the student is ready, the student is then integrated into his/her grade level or transitioned into the mainstream when ready.
What is the homework policy at IIS?
Homework is essential for students to master what they have learned during the school day. IIS therefore places high importance on the students' daily homework assignments. Each student is expected to complete homework assignments and hand them in on the specified deadlines. Failure to submit homework may result in disciplinary actions against the student.
Do students bring their own meals to school?
Our students are required to bring a snack for their morning break and a packed lunch (which can be heated at school). Students in High School can also purchase their own snacks from the various restaurants and hawkers around the school. They will have to inform their form teacher of where they will be going to purchase their meal.
What outdoor facilities can students use?
IIS is fortunate to be surrounded by outdoor playgrounds, fields and other educational agencies (such as an indoor gym). We will use all of our wonderful resources in our immediate community so that our students further develop social skills, keen sense of culture and independence.
Does IIS provide bus transportation for students?
Yes, door-to-door bus services are available for the majority of IIS students. Bus transportation is charged every Term. A bus aunty accompanies the students on the buses. Please contact the IIS reception for a bus transport request form.
Do students wear uniforms?
IIS has a partial uniform. Students are required to purchase school shirts and match this with black,dark grey, or indigo-colored pants/knee-length skirts.
Does IIS take students on outings?
IIS consists of 4 Terms. During each Term, an educational outing is planned for our students. We believe in dynamic learning and incidental teaching. Outings offer such experiences. Parents will be advised of each outing and the corresponding details at the beginning of each term.
Can parents join school outings?
When we need an extra pair of hands, we welcome parents to join us on outings. It is, however, essential, that parents are paired up with other students and not their own child to teach skills like autonomy, sharing "my mom/dad", and adhering to school guidelines even though parents are around. IIS also has a policy, which mandates that new students to IIS, who are about to embark on their first outing go without their parent as this helps the student feel integrated in his/her new environment and encourages him/her to cement strong friendships. Parents are invited 1) when we do not have enough faculty to accompany classes to an outing and/or 2) based on a rotating system, so that each parent who wishes to volunteer has a chance to see their child "in action".
Can students be expelled?
IIS incorporates a variety of psychological and socio-emotional approaches to teaching students. As such, when students are often getting themselves into trouble an action plan is first set into place, which incorporates the teachers, parents, counselors/therapists' support. We will work together as a team and aim to rectify the student's struggles. It is extremely important during such times that parents work collaboratively with the IIS team both in the school environment and in the home environment, however.
Should the student continue to be a threat to himself/herself or others, then suspension and ultimately expulsion are possible consequences.
Should the student continue to be a threat to himself/herself or others, then suspension and ultimately expulsion are possible consequences.
