Not only does the IB programmes build a solid foundation for students right from the golden age, it also offers learning experiences that go beyond all limits.
Challenging roadmap – Rigorous accreditation process
The International Schools of North America (SNA) is 1 of 6th IB Continuum Schools in Vietnam, meaning SNA is an authorized school to teach all three IB programmes, including: Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme. It only takes less than 10 seconds to say that statement, but to be able to become an IB Continuum School, one needs many years to plan, prepare, deploy and undergo thorough accreditation process. The International Baccalaureate (IB), founded in 1968 in Switzerland, is widely recognized around the world. The program helps develop well-rounded individuals who is eager to learn, be knowledgeable, confident and interested in surrounding issues. By obtaining an IB Diploma, students rarely have to worry about which university will accept them, but rather how many scholarships they will receive, or which prestigious universities they will enroll. To be able to teach all three programs, it is a journey that only schools that offer a holistic system, professionalism in operations, excellence in teaching, long-term vision can meet the requirements. The IBO ensures the highest standards of every IB programmes through community collaboration and continuous improvement. In addition, each international school must go through a strict authorization process to be able to receive accreditation in terms of facilities as well as teaching qualifications. Therefore, parents’ assurrance about the quality of SNA – an IB Continuum School, is completely well-founded.
There are not that many IB schools in Vietnam that have received WASC (Western Association of Schools, Colleges and Schools) accreditation and are members of the CIS (Council of International Schools). SNA is one of a few that meets all three of these prestigious organization. The fact that we are credited by the world’s leading organizations is a measure of prestige and a strong testament for our quality.
The earlier you start – The higher your success
One of the key factors that creates the prestige of the IB Diploma is its challenges. IB programmes are designed to combine theoretical and practical learning from research activities which are proven around the world and in the community. As a part of the curriculum, end-of-semester activities such as Celebration of Learning Exhibitions, Extended Essays, encourage students to think internationally, in a complex and hyper-connected world. Therefore, the earlier students learn IB, the better their ability to build a foundation; and the higher their ability to conquer this prestigious degree.
By enrolling at an IB Continuum School, students will inherit the quintessence of this prestigious program The IB Primary Years Program (IBPYP) is designed for students aged 3 to 12 years old. This level of education marks the beginning of a lifelong journey, developing children’s interest and cultural awareness to become active participants in their own learning process. At this level, IB focuses on building soft skills (creativity, collaboration, teamwork, critical thinking) and a love of learning, through dynamic curriculum and learning methods such as project-based learning and inquiry-based learning. This phase is extremely important for students to help students spark curiosity and the joy in learning, embarking on the journey of cultivating knowledge, honing skills of a global citizen.
Comprehensive experience – Transparent learning path
What is more important than the beginning stage of a student is that an IB Continuum School provides a consistent development path for each learners. As an IB Continuum School that deliver all three curriculum frameworks, SNA is able to integrate a long-term vision to a student’s development. Particularly, students are given a detailed and thorough entrance examination so that our qualified teachers can assess their background and skillset accurately, thereby providing in-depth consultation and building a specific development plan catered to each student. For instance, if a student has a strong suit for science subjects, they will be guaranteed to develop according to the most appropriate path. If a student needs to improve their social skills, we can also support them. This is only possible at an IB Continuum School when there is continuity in the program.
Seamless and State-of-the-art facilities
In an IB Continuum school, the infrastructure is built according to double standards: ensuring modernity and convenience, while also ensuring support for students to reach their maximum abilities in each stage. At SNA, functional classrooms are designed according to the children’s roadmap, the PYP music classroom with an age-appropriate instrument system, moving to the MYP, the musical instruments also “grow” with the children. The seamlessness in facilities helps maximize the students’ talents and abilities because students can only reach their full potential once they are given appropriate learning tools, materials and environment. Furthermore, SNA also offers high-quality equipments such as 3D printers, laser cutters in Design, Golf 4.0 in Sports (Physical Education)… to bring new and exciting experiences for students.
Longterm value – Outstanding result
“IB Profile Learner” includes 10 qualities that shape a students, such as: caring, knowledgable, inquirer, risk-taker, thinker, disciplined, balanced, open-minded, reflective, communicators. In a rapidly developing world, these 10 qualities are the “anchors” for children to stay resolute and unwavering in the face of challenges. The journey to build these characteristics takes time and efforts from students, families and the school – which is the reason why students should enroll at SNA as we also cultivate these values throughout all 3 levels. From PYP to MYP (11 to 16 year olds) – Building a strong academic foundation, MYP develops students’ confidence in taking charge of their own learning and making connections between theory and real life. And then there is the IB Diploma Program (IBDP) for students aged 16 to 19 years old – A future-ready program that encourages students’ inquisitive mindset to excel in their careers and in life. In addition, SNA offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for students. Many of these are teacher-lead activities such as sports, chess, cooking, music, language, and academic supports. The SNA student council also offers many other activities such as movie nights, homecomings, excursions, color runs, and open mic talent shows.
With nearly 20 years of establishment combined with the quintessence of international education, SNA Saigon South Campus is a trustworthy choice for families over many generations. By putting students at the center of our teaching, our practical learning methods will pave the way to success for each child.
