PRINCIPALLY SPEAKING
Aaron Wise, Principal
Dear AISM Community,
Reflecting on my journey as an educator, I often revisit a pivotal question posed during my training: "What kind of students would you like to have come out of your classrooms?" This inquiry has remained a guiding force throughout my career in education. As a parent, I also find myself pondering, "What kind of adult would I like my child to become?"
It's intriguing to observe that throughout history, some of the most egregious crimes have been perpetrated by individuals who were highly educated:
This observation underscores the profound impact of education, enabling individuals to accomplish both remarkable and, unfortunately, abhorrent deeds.
As educators at AISM, our mission extends beyond academic excellence; it encompasses fostering values that guide our students toward virtuous paths. Our core values—Respect, Excellence, Communication, Integrity, Passion, and Enjoyment—serve as pillars upon which our educational philosophy stands. They shape not only our students' academic pursuits but also their moral compass, guiding them into adulthood.
I am delighted to share a recent example of one of our Year 8 students demonstrating these values in action. Taking the initiative to organize a bake sale to raise funds for lost dogs, she exemplified genuine compassion and proactive leadership. Her endeavor epitomises the essence of what we aim to instill in our students: a commitment to using their talents and energy for the betterment of society.
Reflecting on my journey as an educator, I often revisit a pivotal question posed during my training: "What kind of students would you like to have come out of your classrooms?" This inquiry has remained a guiding force throughout my career in education. As a parent, I also find myself pondering, "What kind of adult would I like my child to become?"
It's intriguing to observe that throughout history, some of the most egregious crimes have been perpetrated by individuals who were highly educated:
- Pol Pot, considered part of the academic elite, studied in France.
- Dr. Josef Mengele held doctorates in anthropology and medicine.
- Ted Kaczynski, a brilliant mathematician, earned his Ph.D. from Harvard.
- Slobodan Milošević, with a background in law, also obtained a Ph.D. in Economics from Harvard University.
This observation underscores the profound impact of education, enabling individuals to accomplish both remarkable and, unfortunately, abhorrent deeds.
As educators at AISM, our mission extends beyond academic excellence; it encompasses fostering values that guide our students toward virtuous paths. Our core values—Respect, Excellence, Communication, Integrity, Passion, and Enjoyment—serve as pillars upon which our educational philosophy stands. They shape not only our students' academic pursuits but also their moral compass, guiding them into adulthood.
I am delighted to share a recent example of one of our Year 8 students demonstrating these values in action. Taking the initiative to organize a bake sale to raise funds for lost dogs, she exemplified genuine compassion and proactive leadership. Her endeavor epitomises the essence of what we aim to instill in our students: a commitment to using their talents and energy for the betterment of society.
Additionally, AISM's Care:Mvmt program underscores our dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals who prioritize self-care, empathy, and global stewardship. Care Week, scheduled for the third week of Term 2, will provide opportunities for students to engage in activities that promote caring for themselves, others, and the world around them—a practice we hope becomes ingrained in their character.
While we take pride in the academic and leadership prowess of our graduates, it is incumbent upon us all to ensure that they leverage these abilities to contribute positively to society. Together, as a community, let us continue to inspire and empower our students to be agents of positive change.
While we take pride in the academic and leadership prowess of our graduates, it is incumbent upon us all to ensure that they leverage these abilities to contribute positively to society. Together, as a community, let us continue to inspire and empower our students to be agents of positive change.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Michelle Chaplin, Head of Junior School
Student Voice in the Junior School
In the Junior School, we are always interested in feedback from the students about their academic journey and school life. We recently surveyed all the students from Foundation to Year 5 and gathered some interesting commentary.
- Mathematics, Reading, and Art topped the polls for favourite homeroom subjects.
- Overwhelmingly the students love group activities, collaborating, interactive online apps and quizzes.
- PE and Music are a hit with the students in general.
- They love their Inquiry time when they get to explore interesting topics and would like more time to do this.
Our students feel their classrooms are an enjoyable place to learn where they feel confident to answer questions and supported when they need help.
Today, the Junior School held its first student parliament session for 2024, where all our student leadership teams came together to explore the following two questions regarding AISM:
What’s working well? What could we do better?
It was incredible to hear from our students from Foundation through to Year 5 on these questions.
Some of their thoughts:
- “People are playing well together on the playground and getting along with each other.”
- “I see my friends helping me.”
- “My camp was amazing! It’s the first time I have been away from my family for a long time. I was brave and so independent.”
- “I have enjoyed joining this school and making so many new friends.”
- “It’s nice to hear people using their manners in the Canteen line.”
- “I wonder if the food prices could be lower?”
- “Do you think there could be more froyo topping options?”
- “We could have a 100 storey tree house for everyone to play together.”
- “Playtime could be longer.”
- “Could we offer language games during break times?”
- “Can we make our uniforms more comfortable?”
We then gathered in our teams to explore our goals for this year and what they look like across each term. We made a plan!
School Captain’s Goals
- To see a happy Junior School.
- To start an award system for the Recipe Values with prizes and have music playing across the school to make us all feel good.
- All of our committees will work together to make AISM the best school ever!
House Captain’s Goals
- To lead CCAs
- To have active students with the launch of Thursday Sports
- Equipment will be easy to borrow and there will be lots of choices
Visible Learning Ambassador’s Goals
- Everyone will know what VL is by participating in monthly VL Challenges
- There will be a VL section of all Junior School Assemblies
- VL Ambassadors will be in classrooms helping others with their learning
Global Ambassador’s Goals
- Educate all community members about every celebration
- Celebrate beyond the classroom walls
- Focus on world issues
SRC’s Goals
- To make sure the Junior School is feeling happy
- Every class will have weekly SRC feedback/meeting sessions
- We will listen to everyone
Our students explored how they can
- Lead by example
- Inspire their peers
- Build school spirit
- Lead learning sessions
- Plan events
Student leadership is an important part of life at AISM and our students certainly were fabulous leaders in our parliament today!
Foundation have nearly completed Term 1 of formal schooling. Let’s see what they have been up to!
An insight into Term 1 in Foundation
Mrs Cayli Russell, Foundation Classroom Teacher
The Foundation students have embarked on an enriching journey this year, marked by moments of joy, learning, and exploration. From mastering phonics to delving into the world of shapes and numbers in Mathematics, our young scholars have been eagerly soaking up knowledge and experiences.
One of the highlights of the term was our delightful Teddy Bears Picnic, where laughter filled the air as students brought their beloved furry friends to school. From measuring themselves and their cuddly companions to crafting bear masks and baking teddy-shaped biscuits, every moment was infused with creativity and excitement.
In our literacy adventures, we've delved into a diverse array of books, from the enchanting Elmer series, The Dot to the timeless classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar, honing our skills in language acquisition and sequencing.
Exploring the rich tapestry of global celebrations has been a fascinating journey in our Inquiry studies. From Hannukah to Deepavali, Easter to Chinese New Year, our classroom transformed into a vibrant mosaic of cultures, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the traditions and customs of others.
To nurture our speaking and listening skills, our classroom morphed into a bustling hospital setting. Under the guidance of our very own Mrs. Mac and Ms. Alice, students eagerly embraced their roles as doctors, nurses, and patients, learning essential first-aid techniques and emergency procedures firsthand.
As we reflect on the whirlwind of activities and discoveries of this term, we eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead. With curiosity as our compass and enthusiasm as our fuel, we are poised to embrace the remainder of the year with open minds and eager hearts.
One of the highlights of the term was our delightful Teddy Bears Picnic, where laughter filled the air as students brought their beloved furry friends to school. From measuring themselves and their cuddly companions to crafting bear masks and baking teddy-shaped biscuits, every moment was infused with creativity and excitement.
In our literacy adventures, we've delved into a diverse array of books, from the enchanting Elmer series, The Dot to the timeless classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar, honing our skills in language acquisition and sequencing.
Exploring the rich tapestry of global celebrations has been a fascinating journey in our Inquiry studies. From Hannukah to Deepavali, Easter to Chinese New Year, our classroom transformed into a vibrant mosaic of cultures, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the traditions and customs of others.
To nurture our speaking and listening skills, our classroom morphed into a bustling hospital setting. Under the guidance of our very own Mrs. Mac and Ms. Alice, students eagerly embraced their roles as doctors, nurses, and patients, learning essential first-aid techniques and emergency procedures firsthand.
As we reflect on the whirlwind of activities and discoveries of this term, we eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead. With curiosity as our compass and enthusiasm as our fuel, we are poised to embrace the remainder of the year with open minds and eager hearts.
MIDDLE & SENIOR SCHOOL
AISM Mathematicians Shine Brightly Once Again
Ms Tanya Fisher, Head of Mathematics
You may have heard of Derek Han and Lucas Yip as supreme Mathematicians on our social media pages?
You may have seen Hayden Fisher and Phillip Mah shredding on guitar on stage after attending several hours of Extension and accelerated Maths each day?
On Saturday, these four boys traveled to Alice Smith Secondary School to compete with 41 teams of Year 11, Year 12 and Year 13 students from various schools all over Kuala Lumpur at the Inaugural Kuala Lumpur Senior Mathematics Challenge day.
You may have seen Hayden Fisher and Phillip Mah shredding on guitar on stage after attending several hours of Extension and accelerated Maths each day?
On Saturday, these four boys traveled to Alice Smith Secondary School to compete with 41 teams of Year 11, Year 12 and Year 13 students from various schools all over Kuala Lumpur at the Inaugural Kuala Lumpur Senior Mathematics Challenge day.
The boys spent eight hours through grewling Mathematics questions, problems and challenges, and they even had to run over 800m on a relay track!
At many points throughout the day, the boys were coming in the top five positions and ended up in the Top 15 teams out of nearly 200 competitors! This was despite them competing against students who have undertaken almost 2 more years of learning high levels of Mathematics than these Year 11 boys.
As always, Ms Rashina and myself were so proud of our students and they have proven themselves, once again, to shine brightly not only as great mathematicians, but as a cohesive team and generally friendly, lovely people as they connected with other students from other schools, embodying everything it means to be an AISM student. Well done Boys!
At many points throughout the day, the boys were coming in the top five positions and ended up in the Top 15 teams out of nearly 200 competitors! This was despite them competing against students who have undertaken almost 2 more years of learning high levels of Mathematics than these Year 11 boys.
As always, Ms Rashina and myself were so proud of our students and they have proven themselves, once again, to shine brightly not only as great mathematicians, but as a cohesive team and generally friendly, lovely people as they connected with other students from other schools, embodying everything it means to be an AISM student. Well done Boys!
To End Term 1 in Mathematics at AISM
Ms Tanya Fisher, Head of Mathematics
It was an exciting day with competitions to celebrate one of the most amazing 2-Dimensional Shapes: The Circle.
We had students enter competitions to draw the most “perfect” circle with only a piece of string and chalk, “PI”zza making at lunch, and groups of students submitting a picture to celebrate the day.
Congratulations to Year 12 who inserted themselves inside little circles over a drawing of a Pie done on Desmos, a technology graphing tool. Using equations and through one single, continuous line, this was the end result!
We had students enter competitions to draw the most “perfect” circle with only a piece of string and chalk, “PI”zza making at lunch, and groups of students submitting a picture to celebrate the day.
Congratulations to Year 12 who inserted themselves inside little circles over a drawing of a Pie done on Desmos, a technology graphing tool. Using equations and through one single, continuous line, this was the end result!
Year 9 and 10 Penang Camp
Ms Stephanie Rajani, Pastoral Coordinator Year 9 and 10
Last week, Year 9 and 10 students embarked on an unforgettable adventure to the Golden Sands Resort in Penang. The purpose of this camp was to encourage students to interact with others, demonstrate responsibility, and make choices.
Upon arrival, students were tasked with selecting their preferred activities. Some opted to spend their time at the pool, playing water volleyball or sliding down waterslides. Others chose to play golf or take a ride on the hotdog float. Some ventured into the sea for a swim, flew kites, or went for a nature walk.
Over the following two days, students engaged in team-building activities, which provided opportunities for personal growth, fun, teamwork, and leadership development. Those who braved the Adventure Zone, featuring steep slides, definitely enjoyed the thrilling experience. Students also had the option to take part in mindfulness sessions at the beach, participate in morning runs, witness the sunrise at the beach, use the gym facilities, or simply socialise.
Additionally, evenings provided an ideal setting for soccer matches and bonding experiences. Gathering around a beachside bonfire, students and staff roasted marshmallows, listened to music, and appreciated watching the fire.
In line with our commitment to community service learning, students participated in a beach cleanup activity, focusing on collecting plastic litter. The proactive involvement of both staff and students fostered a deep connection with nature and prompted reflection on the importance of environmental preservation.
It was heartening to hear numerous students express their appreciation for the camp and share their positive experiences. Overall, the trip proved to be a memorable and enriching experience for all involved.
Over the following two days, students engaged in team-building activities, which provided opportunities for personal growth, fun, teamwork, and leadership development. Those who braved the Adventure Zone, featuring steep slides, definitely enjoyed the thrilling experience. Students also had the option to take part in mindfulness sessions at the beach, participate in morning runs, witness the sunrise at the beach, use the gym facilities, or simply socialise.
Additionally, evenings provided an ideal setting for soccer matches and bonding experiences. Gathering around a beachside bonfire, students and staff roasted marshmallows, listened to music, and appreciated watching the fire.
In line with our commitment to community service learning, students participated in a beach cleanup activity, focusing on collecting plastic litter. The proactive involvement of both staff and students fostered a deep connection with nature and prompted reflection on the importance of environmental preservation.
It was heartening to hear numerous students express their appreciation for the camp and share their positive experiences. Overall, the trip proved to be a memorable and enriching experience for all involved.
Putting Learning Into Action
Ms Gayatri Unsworth, Society and Culture Teacher
This term, our Year 11 sociologists have been busy at work, learning all about the social and cultural world and discovering a wide range of social research methodologies that can be used to further understand and gain more meaningful insights into human behaviour and actions.
As part of a deeper examination into these methodologies, students applied their theoretical knowledge of two social research methods, Content Analysis and Questionnaires, to a practical activity where they explored the role and impact of media in relation to social constructs, identity formation and representations around gender.
Over the course of two lessons, students delved into the world of Disney Princess Films, analysing 22 film posters from different eras, beginning with the classic Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs film poster from 1937 up until the most recent poster featuring, coincidentally, the 2025 release of the Live Action - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Working with a partner, students used the coding system provided to them to systematically study these posters and record their observations of the various visual components and underlying messages behind the imagery present in the posters. Students also focused their attention on recurring themes and concepts related to gender depictions, in particular traditional and/or stereotypical representations of the characters pictured. They worked collaboratively to unpack portrayals of male and female characters in these film posters and identify the changes and/or continuities, which could be observed around the subject of gender representation in such films, over a period of almost 90 years.
Using the data gained from their content analysis, students then developed a questionnaire, targeted at two specific generations, to collect opinions around the links between Disney films and gender constructions in society, in order to further explore the impact of media socialisation on individuals. By critically and methodically analysing the posters and then applying their recorded data towards a broader research aim, students were able to put their thinking into action and gain valuable first-hand sociological experience.
As part of a deeper examination into these methodologies, students applied their theoretical knowledge of two social research methods, Content Analysis and Questionnaires, to a practical activity where they explored the role and impact of media in relation to social constructs, identity formation and representations around gender.
Over the course of two lessons, students delved into the world of Disney Princess Films, analysing 22 film posters from different eras, beginning with the classic Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs film poster from 1937 up until the most recent poster featuring, coincidentally, the 2025 release of the Live Action - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Working with a partner, students used the coding system provided to them to systematically study these posters and record their observations of the various visual components and underlying messages behind the imagery present in the posters. Students also focused their attention on recurring themes and concepts related to gender depictions, in particular traditional and/or stereotypical representations of the characters pictured. They worked collaboratively to unpack portrayals of male and female characters in these film posters and identify the changes and/or continuities, which could be observed around the subject of gender representation in such films, over a period of almost 90 years.
Using the data gained from their content analysis, students then developed a questionnaire, targeted at two specific generations, to collect opinions around the links between Disney films and gender constructions in society, in order to further explore the impact of media socialisation on individuals. By critically and methodically analysing the posters and then applying their recorded data towards a broader research aim, students were able to put their thinking into action and gain valuable first-hand sociological experience.
IESC Graduation, Term 1 2024
Ms Gayatri Unsworth, Head of Language Acquisition Faculty
The Intensive English Support Class (IESC) programme at AISM has had a great first term, with students from non-English speaking backgrounds continuing to gain valuable exposure to learning and teaching practices aimed at equipping them with the language skills and knowledge needed to cope with and thrive within the Australian educational setting.
This term, we farewell three students who will conclude their time in the IESC programme and become fully mainstream students at the start of Term 2. Andy Zhang (Year 9), Jessy Wang (Year 9) and Freda Zhao (Year 8) have all worked hard and made steady progress since joining the IESC programme, and their efforts have paid off with significant improvements in their language skills and abilities.
This term, we farewell three students who will conclude their time in the IESC programme and become fully mainstream students at the start of Term 2. Andy Zhang (Year 9), Jessy Wang (Year 9) and Freda Zhao (Year 8) have all worked hard and made steady progress since joining the IESC programme, and their efforts have paid off with significant improvements in their language skills and abilities.
The Principal and Head of MSS, Mr Wise, recently presented these students with graduation certificates to acknowledge their accomplishments during their time in the IESC programme.
The IESC Teaching Team (Ms Rose, Ms Devi, Mr Webster, Mr Kennedy and Mrs Unsworth) is immensely proud of these students’ achievements and individual successes in terms of their language acquisition. We wish Andy, Jesse and Freda all the best as they continue on their learning journey here at AISM.
The IESC Teaching Team (Ms Rose, Ms Devi, Mr Webster, Mr Kennedy and Mrs Unsworth) is immensely proud of these students’ achievements and individual successes in terms of their language acquisition. We wish Andy, Jesse and Freda all the best as they continue on their learning journey here at AISM.
First Aid Advisory Lesson
Ms Stephanie Rajani, Pastoral Coordinator Year 9 and 10
Last Friday, Year 9 and 10 students took part in an engaging and informative workshop focused on basic first aid techniques during their Advisory lesson. The workshop comprised five interactive sessions, each designed to equip students with essential life-saving skills. Throughout the sessions, students demonstrated active participation and enthusiasm, eager to absorb the knowledge presented to them.
The workshops covered a comprehensive range of topics, beginning with the identification and management of fractures, sprains, and the proper application of bandages. Students then delved into the intricacies of handling cuts and wounds, learning effective methods to staunch bleeding and promote healing. Practical exercises allowed students to familiarise themselves with the Recovery position, a vital technique in ensuring the safety of an injured individual.
Furthermore, students received invaluable education on common allergies, including recognition of symptoms and the appropriate use of an EpiPen in cases of severe allergic reactions. This segment underscored the importance of swift and effective intervention in potentially life-threatening situations.
The workshops covered a comprehensive range of topics, beginning with the identification and management of fractures, sprains, and the proper application of bandages. Students then delved into the intricacies of handling cuts and wounds, learning effective methods to staunch bleeding and promote healing. Practical exercises allowed students to familiarise themselves with the Recovery position, a vital technique in ensuring the safety of an injured individual.
Furthermore, students received invaluable education on common allergies, including recognition of symptoms and the appropriate use of an EpiPen in cases of severe allergic reactions. This segment underscored the importance of swift and effective intervention in potentially life-threatening situations.
The workshop culminated with instruction on administering CPR, a skill that holds immense significance in emergency situations. Through hands-on demonstrations and guidance from dedicated teachers and school nurses, students gained confidence in their ability to respond effectively in critical moments.
A profound expression of gratitude is extended to the dedicated educators who contributed their time and expertise to make this workshop a success. Special thanks to Mr Steven Webster, Mr Ray Pollock, Mr Dale Wells, and Mr Matheson, whose commitment to student learning was evident throughout the sessions. Appreciation also goes to our esteemed school nurses, Mrs Mac and Ms Alice, for their invaluable support and guidance in facilitating this essential learning experience.
A profound expression of gratitude is extended to the dedicated educators who contributed their time and expertise to make this workshop a success. Special thanks to Mr Steven Webster, Mr Ray Pollock, Mr Dale Wells, and Mr Matheson, whose commitment to student learning was evident throughout the sessions. Appreciation also goes to our esteemed school nurses, Mrs Mac and Ms Alice, for their invaluable support and guidance in facilitating this essential learning experience.
WHOLE SCHOOL
AIMS Sports & CCA
Mr Ivan Yoong, Whole School CCA & Sports Coordinator
AIMS fixtures for Term 1 have come to an end. It was an exciting journey for our players throughout the term. In AISM, we cherish our community as a whole where we treat others with empathy, tolerance, and support. There is no doubt that our sporting teams exhibited those values during their training and competitions. I would like to congratulate both the players and coaches on their outstanding achievements in the AIMS fixtures this term. Kudos AISM!
|
Time |
Year |
Venue |
|
U9 Boys Soccer |
Belvan, Jian Zi, Haruto, Yi Hong, Harvey, Ethan, Declan, Mika, Hugo and Mikhail |
Champion |
|
U11 Girls Soccer |
Riley, Edward, Yi Chen, Corwin, Fergus, Giovanni, Edwin, Bailin, Xin Yu |
1st Runner Up |
|
U13 Boys Basketball |
Edwin, Xingyu, Ethan, Anson, Alex, Arif , Damian and Kenichi |
Champion |
|
U13 Girls Basketball |
Ashley, Isis, Qian Hua, Suenne, Pui Mun, Antonia and Chelsea |
2nd Runner Up |
|
U15 Boys Basketball |
Ethan, Anson, Arif, Damian, Fynn, Toby, Kenichi, Lap Yin and Max Wong |
1st Runner Up |
|
U15 Girls Basketball |
Alana Saldhana, Cherish Wang, Hyuna Oh, Ashley Yoong, Jasmin Unsworth, Wakana Matsuo, and Grace Boam |
2nd Runner Up |
|
O15 Boys Basketball |
Chase, Kai Ter, Yin Kai, Ryan, Lucas, Cedric, Ka Jun, Derek and Jason |
2nd Runner Up |
|
O15 Girls Basketball |
Alana Saldhana, Cherish Wang, Hyuna Oh, Ashley Yoong, Jasmin Unsworth, Wakana Matsuo, and Grace Boam |
Champion |
Golf Tournament
Mr Ivan Yoong, Whole School CCA & Sports Coordinator
In AISM, we encourage diversity in both academic and sports. At the beginning of the year, we took up an opportunity to enrol some of our golfers in a tournament that was recommended by Ms Christine Khor from the PTC. It was a rewarding initiative which allowed us to expand into additional sporting events outside AIMS fixtures. Well done to Isabelle, Arez, McKenzie and congratulations to Ziyang Guo (one of the youngest golfers in AISM) from Year 4, who finished Third in the Annual U.S Kids Golf Malaysia Championship.
Semester 1 CCA Update
Recommencent of Term 2 CCA: Monday, 22 April.
AISM Customer Service Information
For any uniform enquiries, you can reach TEK Distributors by call, WhatsApp or email. Here are their contact details:
+6012-5517202
online@tekgroup.my
Trivia Night
