PRINCIPALLY SPEAKING
Simon Brooks, Principal
“Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit”
- E. E. Cummings
As educators, parents, and students, we all recognize that education is about more than just gaining knowledge. At AISM, there is a question that we ask ourselves all of the time, a question I ask of new parents, staff and students whenever I get the opportunity: "What type of person do we want our students to become in consequence of the time they spend with us?" The answers to this question are numerous, and they include fostering curiosity, creativity, healthy scepticism, open-mindedness, and independence. However, one of our primary considerations at AISM is to nurture our students’ sense of self-confidence.
This is evident every lesson of every day in our classrooms and learning spaces. Gone are the days of students sitting silently, passively absorbing information. Instead, we encourage our students to ask questions, share their ideas, and express their opinions freely. We believe that active participation is key to igniting a love for learning and to developing critical thinking skills.
Our classrooms are not merely places of instruction; they are hubs of intellectual debate and exploration. We value the diversity of thought and encourage students to challenge ideas, probe perspectives, and respectfully engage in discussions with their peers and teachers. In doing so, our students develop the confidence to express themselves articulately and contribute meaningfully to the shared learning experience.
But it doesn't stop there. Confidence extends beyond the classroom, of course. Last night, I was delighted to attend the opening night of our MSS musical, 'The Addams Family Musical’. Wow! What an experience this was. Our students' ability to get on stage, sing, dance, and take on different and divergent personas is a great testament to themselves, their families, their teachers, and the confidence they have cultivated during their time at AISM. The stage is a metaphor for life, and stepping onto it requires courage and self-assurance. The confidence our students display during such events is a reflection of the growth they have undergone throughout their educational journey.
E. E. Cummings once said, "Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit." We firmly believe in this philosophy, and we know that confidence doesn't appear by chance; it is developed through action. At AISM, we provide numerous opportunities for our students to step out of their comfort zones, try new things, and embrace challenges. By taking these opportunities, our students learn that failure is a stepping stone to success and that mistakes are valuable learning experiences.
So, students, I urge you - have a go! - "fake it until you make it." Try something new, even if it feels intimidating at first. Take that risk. Gradually, the confidence we try on for size becomes an integral part of our identity. What's the worst thing that could happen?
AISM Annual Survey 2023
The deadline for completion of our survey is Friday, 18 August at 5pm so please support us by providing your feedback before then!
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Michelle Chaplin, Head of Junior School
This week has given cause for many a smile across the Junior School as parents and teachers with the students collaborated and discussed learning goals and achievements - explored classrooms and celebrated a wonderful Semester 1 of learning.
Witnessing our 3 and 4 year olds in their swimming program clearly demonstrated how independent and grown up they have become - changing, caps on , goggles adjusted and ready to dive right in! They are an awesome bunch and already looking close to joining the infamous BARRACUDAS Squad! Well done to our teachers and swim coaches!
Today our Foundation students celebrated 100 days of learning at AISM - and what a difference 100 days can make! They have stories to tell, writing to share, numbers to explore and have become true Foundation Rockstars!
It is the extras that truly make education at AISM so very special - so relevant to our students and relevant to their world.
It’s been a fabulous week - I wonder what we will learn and experience next week!
Year 1 Learning Snapshot
Mr Matthew Brown, Year 1 Teacher & Curriculum Coordinator
Our Year 1 class has shown an inspiring level of commitment and growth in every aspect of their school lives this year so far. I am impressed daily by their growing resilience and curiosity, as well as the way they embrace new ideas, challenges and routines.
Since the first day of school, we have set ourselves a goal to read together at least two times every day. This has seen us establish a habit of choosing an array of books from our incredible Library and becoming quite adept at deciding what it is we like or don’t like about what we’re reading.
By the time you read this article, we will have read 250 books together for the year! These include picture books, short novels, graphic novels and non-fiction information texts. Ask any student in our class who their favourite author is and you’ll hear all about Mo Willems, Tony Ross, Aaron Blabey….we have many authors and illustrators whose work we enjoy!
Our radical readers have made excellent connections between texts and their own experiences, as well as get really excited when they can make a link between stories. We give every story a star rating and can explain why they’re earned their score. We’ve also inspired a lot of students to come into school and share their own books - you cannot escape reading in Year 1!
Because they’ve been devouring so many stories throughout the year, this sets us up for Book Week (25 August 2023) with a whole selection of characters we want to come dressed as - wait until you see how far our imaginations take us!
MIDDLE & SENIOR SCHOOL
Simon Brooks, Head of Middle & Senior School
MOAA Camp
Aiman Akmal Hakim & Mr Simon Matheson, Year 10 Student & Head of Science and Technology
In May of 2023, the Malaysian Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (MOAA) Camp was held, attended by our Year 10 student, Aiman Akmal Hakim. The camp took place at Planetarium Negara and lasted for 3 days. Preceding this camp, several weeks of online lectures and lessons had taken place. The lectures talked about the concepts that would be assessed in the camp. Attendees learned how to calculate the positions of stars, how to use a star chart, light and colour and celestial mechanics, among other things.
During the camp students participated in a telescope making workshop and learnt how to use telescopes. By observing the night sky each night and conducting solar observation with special telescopes in the morning, there was plenty of time for hands-on experience. Throughout the camp there were several assessments, both strenuous but eye opening.
“Overall, the knowledge exposure was intense, yet interesting and the camp gives an opportunity to meet new people and try new things. For anyone with any interest in astronomy or astrophysics, I recommend that you pursue the MOAA as the experience is very rewarding.
I would also like to thank the Science faculty for supporting and recommending me to join the MOAA.”
We are so proud of Aiman and his achievements both within and outside of AISM, proving once again that the Australian curriculum develops thriving and innovative thinkers, ready to take on the world and tackle global issues.
Celebration of French National Day
Ms Stephanie Rajani, French Teacher
Bonjour tout le monde!
We are excited to share with you the delightful celebration that took place in French class at the beginning of the term as we commemorated the French National Day, also known as "Bastille Day". On this occasion, students learning French created a "Cocarde," which is a traditional French rosette badge. The cocarde is an emblem of national pride, and its design is inspired by the French flag. The cocarde, often worn during various national celebrations in France, represents unity and solidarity among the French people.
Students also listened to the French national anthem, "La Marseillaise", which resonates with the spirit of liberty and courage, paying tribute to those who fought for the nation's freedom.
Vive la France! Vive la diversité!
French Poetry and Art Competition
Ms Stephanie Rajani, French Teacher
Last term, French students took part in a poetry writing and Art competition organised by L’Alliance Française of Kuala Lumpur and by the French Embassy.
Students had to write a pantoum, which is a poetry originated from Malaysia, on the topic of French speaking countries. Then they had to illustrate it.
We are delighted to announce that Yen Kei won first place for the A2 entry (elementary level) and Zara won first place for the B1/B2 entry (upper intermediate level). Bravo aux vainqueurs!
We are also grateful for those who participated in the competition.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
Mr Simon Matheson, Head of Science and Technology
Will artificial intelligence replace pop stars?
Do bugs deserve more respect?
Could you live an entire day without plastic?
What responsibility do STEM corporations have right now to take action on climate change?
These are some of the questions facing our dynamic, globalised and complex 21st century learners. At AISM, our students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to solve tough problems, gather and evaluate evidence, and make sense of data and information for audiences through a range of communication techniques and skills. These are the types of skills that students learn by studying Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, subjects collectively known as STEM.
“If you take a look at the most fantastic schemes that are considered impossible… you realize that they can be possible if we advance technology a little bit.”
- Michio Kaku, theoretical physicist, co-founder of string field theory, and author
This year we celebrate the considerable experimental skills, ideas, knowledge, perspectives and actions of our students across MSS through shared learning with our Junior School fellow investigators, entrepreneurs and inventors. Our AISM students continue to engage actively in STEM projects in four subjects across the school - Information and Software Technology, Design and Technology, Science and Mathematics. This year's STEM showcase will be held during Week 5, 14- 18 August 2023. Multiple exhibits and presentations will be exhibited, hosting a celebration of investigation and innovation inspired by our passionate students who are looking forward to sharing their work and talents.
Start a conversation with your daughter or son about their inquiry investigations or designs, highlighting what they are planning to exhibit.
WHOLE SCHOOL
New Cashless System
Have you downloaded the Vircle App?
The Vircle eWallet App is only available as a Mobile Application, and can be downloaded via Apple App Store, Google Play Store and Huawei App Gallery from today. After downloading the app you are required to register your phone number or email account and provide the info requested. An email from support@vircle.com had been sent to your AISM Family email address on 1 Aug 2023 with a unique invite code and instructions on how to activate your children accounts.
Note: Children DO NOT need to register for Vircle. They use their existing Card as a payment card - which is linked to the parent’s Vircle App.
-
Recording of the Vircle Webinar held on the 2 August 2023 is available on the portal via this link
-
Vircle Support Team will be campus to help with the app registration process during these dates:
- Thursday 10 August - Friday, 11 August 2023 ( 7:30am to 9:30am & 2:00pm to 4:00pm)
- Monday 14 August - Wednesday, 15 August 2023 ( 7:30am to 9:30am & 2:00pm to 4:00pm)
For any other queries, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly IT dept on elearning@aism.edu.my or Vircle Customer Care via Whatsapp (+6011-11176000) or email support@vircle.com
New Car Sticker
Each family is entitled to two (2) FREE car stickers. Additional and replacement stickers are chargeable at a cost price of RM15 per sticker. Each family is permitted to have up to a maximum of three (3) stickers only.
All you have to do is tap/click on the button below and submit your details via the Google Form before 11 August 2023. The stickers will be ready for collection at the Admin Office Reception from 16 to 25 August 2023.
In the meantime, should you have any questions regarding this, feel free to call us at 03-8949 5000. We are ready to offer our assistance for a smooth transition.
AISM Mathematicians Shine
Mrs Tanya Fisher & Ms Deb Putri, Head of Mathematics & Head of Diverse Educational Needs
Once again our hardworking students have displayed their ability to problem-solve and apply their mathematical skills with great results from the SASMO competition.
We are proud of all our competitors, extending themselves outside of their comfort zones and a particular mention goes out to these students who received Gold, Silver, Bronze and Honorable mentions (as well as silver medalist Lucas Yip): Arjan Pathmanaban, Caden Eyu Eu Cheong, Doyoon Oh, Lam Lap Yin, Jiayi Lyu, Hyuna Oh, Ruoti Liu, Chengjun Han, Denyce Ng Jen Qin, Lam Kian Mun, Olivier Printemps Tan Zhy Ley, Harvey Yeo, Jo Ishizaka, Tama Hosomi, Aisha Rahman, Derek Tan, Jian Zi Neoh, Ryunosuke Hosomi, Ziyang Guo, Charmayne Cheong, Sihan Chen, Abdul Rahman and Nathan Ooi.
A special mention goes out to Derek Han in Year 10, Doyoon Oh in Year 6 and Olivier Printemps in Year 12 who all received gold medals, placing them in the top 8% of students who compete in this prestigious international competition.
Well done AISM mathematicians!
The Addams Family
Mr Dale Keys, Drama Teacher and Director
Greetings once again from the AISM Addams Family Production Team!
We are thrilled to announce that this year's Addams Family Musical has already surpassed the ticket sales from last year's hit production, Mamma Mia! This is truly an extraordinary accomplishment, and we can't wait to see the entire school community come together for this exhilarating event.
Prepare to be mesmerized as we transport you to the eerie and enchanting world of The Addams Family. You'll witness a perfect blend of creepy, kooky, mysterious, and spooky elements, all wrapped up in an enthralling musical comedy. This production is not just entertainment; it's a gateway to immersive learning experiences for our students, where they have honed their acting, singing, dancing, and instrumental skills while nurturing teamwork and creativity.
The demand for tickets is soaring, so don't miss your chance to secure a spot for this incredible show. With a limited number of tickets available online, act fast and reserve yours through our convenient QR code or by visiting the provided link below. But fear not, for those who miss out on pre-sales, we will have additional tickets available at the door on the day of the show.
And that's not all! During intermission, you'll have the chance to marvel at an extraordinary MSS art exhibit. Our talented artists have been working diligently to showcase their finest pieces, adding yet another layer of enrichment to your Addams Family experience.
Mark your calendars and spread the word far and wide. The Addams Family Musical promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, thrills, and a dash of the bizarre. This event is not just a showcase of our students' talents; it is a testament to the power of the arts in fostering creativity, expression, and personal growth.
So don't wait any longer! Join us as we embark on this unforgettable journey into the mysterious and quirky world of The Addams Family. Get your tickets now and be a part of something truly extraordinary. See you there!
New AISM Vocal Tutor
Performing Arts Faculty
May Huey Lai is a talented musician, graduating with a Bachelor of Music (Hons) from the University of Malaya in 2019. Her passion for music also led her to earn a Diploma in Music from the Malaysian Institute of Art in 2014, specializing in vocals with a minor in piano.
Since her graduation, May Huey Lai's soulful voice has graced many events, captivating audiences in performances like "You Shall Have a Song" by Yin Qi, UM music showcases, Kuala Lumpur City Opera's studio recital "Amore, Amore, Amore," and the esteemed Intercontinental Champagne & Opera Launch.
Beyond her solo journey, May Huey Lai actively contributes her talent as a chorister, lending her captivating voice to esteemed groups like Bachfest Malaysia, KLCO, Yin Qi Choir, and MIA Ladies Chorus.
As an experienced teacher with over 8 years of teaching, May Huey Lai generously shares her expertise in classical, musical theater, and pop singing genres. Committed to continuous growth, she attends Australian Kodály teacher training, conferences, and workshops, ensuring her students receive exceptional and comprehensive instruction.
May Huey Lai's musical journey is a testament to her dedication and unwavering pursuit of excellence, both as a performer and as a mentor to aspiring voices. Her talent and passion continue to enrich the world of music with every note she sings and teaches.