gwlip\" post_id=\"1994577\" time=\"1599660157\" user_id=\"7486:
Hi everyone, I'm beginning to consider options for my DS in 2021. Hoping to find a holistic school that is perhaps less stressful than the RI/ HCI whilst giving a holistic education instead of focusing on purely academic grades.
Can parents who have kids attending the above schools share some of their experiences so far?
Much appreciated!
Hi,
My son attends VS and is in now in Year 4 of their IP program.
Academically, it's a tough program, which I believe is similar to any IP schools. They are taught stuff beyond their levels, eg Year 1 were taught Year 4 math topics. IP really stretches kids beyond their comfort zones, they need to be independent learners, take the initiatives to consult with teachers on specifics, learn to manage their time on work, projects (many projects in VS, at least 2 per subjects a year I think) and CCA (a big thing in VS, they are very competitive. Nearing to competitions, there will be more practices.) However, I feel that the early exposure really helps as it means he is actually taking more time to learn the advance stuff and skills which will only be taught later.
Socially, my son really enjoys his days. He is close to his classmates of all races, non-Singaporeans and returning Singaporeans from abroad. It seems that the entire class is closely bonded although there are still cliches amongst them. He often comes home with jokes his classmates made, or funny things they did, even now that he is 16
This is a blessing, to still be able to communicate casually with my teenage son. He is now listening to Tamil pop songs (we are Chinese), introduced by his classmates, and even his younger sister is influenced too. He seems to be able to mix well socially with them. As a context, DS is a bit of a sensitive guy. He used to think that he was being bullied in primary school, or classmates didn't like him in year 1/2. So seeing him enjoying the company of his classmates now means a lot. Oh, they also have a mandatory boarding program in year 3. They have to stay in the school's hostel for 1 term. It was a great learning experience for DS. They stayed in hostel during the weekdays and get to come home on weekends.
The boys play a lot of sports. During PE, they are introduced to different sports, so they can be playing football (a big thing in VS, boys are always playing during recess, PE, breaks, after school etc), floorball or basketball. VS is also a very performing arts inclined school, strong in Choir, Band etc. Apologies, I'm only familiar with these 2.
In summary, a tough academic program, but strong bonds and camaraderie spirit. Teachers and school are very supportive. The nurturing environment helped him to mature. The bond between some of the teachers and the boys are really great. The boys even play basketball with the teachers during break time. Really love the school.