'A school that inspires learning will help students succeed'

Jon Standen, the new headmaster of Australian International School (AIS), said that an inspiring school helps students love learning and develop holistically.

- What motivated you to accept the position of principal of AIS school this August?

- AIS is a long-established school with an excellent reputation. It belongs to the Inspired Education Group, and you'll always see the benefits of being part of such an educational group. AIS's philosophy of inspiring learning and valuing holistic education aligns with my beliefs about what makes a great school and a great education for every child. Holistic education encourages the holistic development of students, including natural academic success, while ensuring children have the opportunity to develop the skills and qualities that will guide them through life after graduating from AIS.

Teacher Jon Standen. Photo: AIS — Jon Standen. Photo: *AIS*

- In your opinion, what factors make a great school for students?

- I'll give you an example from AIS Saigon itself. We aim to provide the best comprehensive education, not only for boarding students in Vietnam, but also for students across Southeast Asia through our boarding facilities. This goal is built on five core beliefs.

First, seriousness in studying and a curious desire to research and learn will help students succeed in exams, enabling them to access the best universities and employers. Our school values enthusiasm for learning at school and encourages lifelong learning.

Secondly, success in life is not solely determined by grades in school. Personal qualities and values are what ultimately determine whether a person will have a successful career and a fulfilling life. Our holistic education ensures that our graduates are balanced, resilient, and creative individuals with the leadership skills to seize opportunities.

Third, a happy child is a successful child. Students who feel safe and happy at school will reach their full potential. At AIS Saigon, academic success and holistic development stem from the care and attention of teachers and peers, friendships that can last a lifetime. Our students, as adults, will be confident, creative, inquisitive individuals with the skills and qualities to make a difference in the world and fulfill their dreams.

Fourth, we recruit the best staff and always support their professional development. We believe that staff are central to the school's success; they are the embodiment of the values the school pursues. Our teachers are passionate about their profession, prioritize understanding the individual needs of each student, and nurture their development.

And fifth, the school always works closely with parents and values their opinions.

The educational environment at AIS will inspire students to learn, making school a joyful experience for them and fostering a desire to improve their lives.

A lesson for primary school students at AIS. Photo: AIS — A lesson for primary school students at AIS. Photo: *AIS*

- What are the outstanding advantages of AIS, sir?

- I have visited the school many times since my appointment to this position. From these visits, I can see the strong bond between teachers, students, and parents, and the warm, friendly atmosphere in this community. AIS has been a very successful school, and I hope that during my term as principal, the school will develop even further. The school has three campuses, all conveniently located. Becoming a member of the Inspired Education Group brings many benefits and opportunities to the school's students. They will be able to study alongside and learn from friends from other countries and continents. That is very exciting.

- In your opinion, what are the benefits for AIS students of studying the International Baccalaureate (IB) program?

- In their final two years of secondary school, students will participate in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, an internationally recognized curriculum highly regarded by universities worldwide. The IB program provides students with a broad and balanced education, allowing them to delve deeply into subjects and see the connections between them. It teaches students to develop and utilize transferable skills. These skills will be useful in university, in the workplace, and in their long-term lives after graduating from AIS.

As an English-speaking international school, our team of experts consists primarily of foreign teachers. They support students in achieving academic excellence, opening doors to success both domestically and internationally. Students learn about different cultures and perspectives, develop networking skills, and build friendships globally. They will impress international universities and future employers academically. They are part of a diverse and vibrant community. Students are invited to join clubs, be members of leadership teams, compete in intercollegiate competitions, enjoy camping trips and field trips, and participate in fundraising for community programs.

I invite families to experience AIS for themselves. Our admissions office and I look forward to welcoming parents and students to introduce them to the education offered at AIS.

AIS secondary school students. Photo: AIS — AIS secondary school students. Photo: *AIS*

Kim Kim

Mr. Jon Standen has over 30 years of experience in education and over 16 years as a principal, having managed schools in the United Kingdom and Thailand. Prior to joining AIS, he was the principal of Harrow International School Bangkok (Thailand).

Australian International School (AIS) campuses

Thu Thiem facility
264 Mai Chi Tho Street, An Phu Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City.
Tel: +84 28 3742 4040

Thao Dien facility
An Phu Urban Area, 36 Thao Dien Street, Thao Dien Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City
Tel: +84 28 3744 6960

Xi's Base
190 Nguyen Van Huong Street, Thao Dien Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City
Tel: +84 28 3519 2727

Hotline: 1900 6940
Email: info@aisvietnam.com

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