PRINCIPALLY SPEAKING
Aaron Wise, Principal
Research consistently shows that parental involvement is one of the most significant factors in a child’s educational success. When parents actively participate in their child’s schooling, children are more likely to excel academically, demonstrate better social skills, and develop a positive attitude towards learning. Studies reveal that students with involved parents are more likely to achieve higher grades, have better attendance, and exhibit improved behaviour and adaptability in school.
In a 2023 study by the National Education Association, students whose parents engage with school activities are reported to be twice as likely to graduate and show increased motivation and self-confidence. The impact of parental support and presence extends beyond the classroom, nurturing a child’s resilience and ability to thrive in diverse environments.
To strengthen this invaluable partnership between parents and our school, I invite you to consider attending the upcoming Parent Teacher Community (PTC) Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, 19 November, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am in the AISM Library. This meeting is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other parents and school leaders, review the achievements of 2024, and discuss exciting initiatives for 2025. Additionally, we will hold elections for key PTC roles, including Vice Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary, and Committee Members.
If you have skills, insights, and time to contribute, please consider applying for a role in the PTC. Becoming an active part of the PTC allows you to have a direct influence on school activities and contribute to enriching our school community. If you are interested, kindly submit your application by emailing paprincipal@aism.edu.my.
Your involvement, no matter how big or small, helps create a supportive environment where every child can succeed. We look forward to seeing you at the AGM and potentially welcoming you to our PTC team for 2025.
In a 2023 study by the National Education Association, students whose parents engage with school activities are reported to be twice as likely to graduate and show increased motivation and self-confidence. The impact of parental support and presence extends beyond the classroom, nurturing a child’s resilience and ability to thrive in diverse environments.
To strengthen this invaluable partnership between parents and our school, I invite you to consider attending the upcoming Parent Teacher Community (PTC) Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, 19 November, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am in the AISM Library. This meeting is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other parents and school leaders, review the achievements of 2024, and discuss exciting initiatives for 2025. Additionally, we will hold elections for key PTC roles, including Vice Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary, and Committee Members.
If you have skills, insights, and time to contribute, please consider applying for a role in the PTC. Becoming an active part of the PTC allows you to have a direct influence on school activities and contribute to enriching our school community. If you are interested, kindly submit your application by emailing paprincipal@aism.edu.my.
Your involvement, no matter how big or small, helps create a supportive environment where every child can succeed. We look forward to seeing you at the AGM and potentially welcoming you to our PTC team for 2025.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Michelle Chaplin, Head of Junior School
What a joy it is to wander the Junior School and witness the growth in each student’s learning. To see where they started the year and how much progress they have made. Whether it has been through the goals they have set or through determination and hard work - or a combination of both - our learners have grown and developed and all have a stream of successes piling up from all stages of the year. Next week we will sit the PAT assessments which will give us the data to back up these success stories but also inform us of where to next as we look to 2025. I encourage parents to ensure good healthy eating and early nights so our learners can do their best!
As we prepare for the end of term, we are also working to ensure the beginning of 2025 kicks off well. To this end, teachers will be working closely with myself and Mrs Janett to prepare our students for the transition to new classes and teachers next year.
The combination and balances required to ensure each class will be a wonderful learning environment for each student is an important process for all of us. Please be aware that requests for classes or teachers are not accepted by teachers. If you have any inquiries or consideration you would like to mention these need to be brought to myself.
As stated a lot of time will go into forming good combinations in each class - ensuring all students are well catered to and in a place to best thrive in 2025.
Over the coming weeks, we will celebrate and share events and information to ensure a wonderful end to the year - check on Seesaw for a full cover of events and “Save the Dates’!
As we prepare for the end of term, we are also working to ensure the beginning of 2025 kicks off well. To this end, teachers will be working closely with myself and Mrs Janett to prepare our students for the transition to new classes and teachers next year.
The combination and balances required to ensure each class will be a wonderful learning environment for each student is an important process for all of us. Please be aware that requests for classes or teachers are not accepted by teachers. If you have any inquiries or consideration you would like to mention these need to be brought to myself.
As stated a lot of time will go into forming good combinations in each class - ensuring all students are well catered to and in a place to best thrive in 2025.
Over the coming weeks, we will celebrate and share events and information to ensure a wonderful end to the year - check on Seesaw for a full cover of events and “Save the Dates’!
Inquiry, Science and Graduation Excitement!
Mr. Ryan Mclntyre, Ms. Jaeshinthaa Kaur Uppal, Ms. Taranpreet & Ms. Poovaneswary, Year 5 Team
Last term, our Year 5s engaged in a powerful Inquiry Unit that combined creativity and real-world issues. Each student selected an important global topic, such as plastic pollution, the burning of plastics, overfishing or the impact of excessive mining on our land. They then designed an awareness display and wrote a persuasive feature article to communicate their message, encouraging thoughtful action towards these issues. This project helped students develop research, critical thinking and persuasive writing skills.
Our Year 5s have been investigating the fascinating world of matter. Through hands-on experiments, students have explored how different states of matter change under various conditions. Highlights include making ice cream to observe what happens when we cool liquids, making jelly to study the effects of heat and creating “spider” sodas to witness gas formation during a chemical reaction. The students have thoroughly enjoyed this unit and it has sparked plenty of excitement and curiosity about the science behind everyday materials.
We’re now in full preparation mode for the much-anticipated Year 5 graduation! Our students are thrilled to have their own special ceremony, where they’ll perform an amazing graduation song for their parents and celebrate their transition into Middle School. This day promises to be a memorable occasion, filled with pride and joy as they take this important next step in their educational journey.
Thank you for your continued support and involvement!
Warm regards,
The Year 5 Team
Term 4 Focus: Enhancing Bahasa Malaysia Writing Skills for Upper Junior School (Year 3 – Year 5) Using the S.K.O.P. Method and Speaking skills enhancement for Lower Junior School learners.
Cikgu Adila & Cikgu Mohd Fadhly, Junior School LOTE Bahasa Malaysia Teachers
This Term, our Bahasa Malaysia program for Upper Junior School learners in Year 3 to Year 5 is dedicated to building stronger writing skills through the S.K.O.P. method. The S.K.O.P. approach—Subject, Kata Kerja (Verb), Object, and Perluasan (Expansion)—guides students in constructing effective and meaningful sentences, empowering them to express ideas with clarity and depth in Bahasa Malaysia.
Throughout the term, students will engage in structured exercises where they begin by identifying the Subject (such as “Ali” or “kucing”), then choose a Verb (like "membaca" (read) or "menyanyi" (sing)), followed by selecting an Object to complete the action. The final step, Perluasan (Expansion), adds descriptive details, such as location or time, to enhance the meaning of each sentence. For example, students will learn to create sentences like “Ali membaca buku di perpustakaan” (Ali reads a book in the library), where they can add layers of detail confidently.
This method provides a strong foundation for sentence construction, helping students improve their syntax, grammar, and vocabulary. By focusing on S.K.O.P., we encourage learners to approach writing as a step-by-step process, allowing them to build more complex, engaging sentences with ease. Through interactive activities, group practice, and personal feedback sessions, students will strengthen their writing proficiency and enjoy a greater sense of accomplishment in Bahasa Malaysia.
Throughout the term, students will engage in structured exercises where they begin by identifying the Subject (such as “Ali” or “kucing”), then choose a Verb (like "membaca" (read) or "menyanyi" (sing)), followed by selecting an Object to complete the action. The final step, Perluasan (Expansion), adds descriptive details, such as location or time, to enhance the meaning of each sentence. For example, students will learn to create sentences like “Ali membaca buku di perpustakaan” (Ali reads a book in the library), where they can add layers of detail confidently.
This method provides a strong foundation for sentence construction, helping students improve their syntax, grammar, and vocabulary. By focusing on S.K.O.P., we encourage learners to approach writing as a step-by-step process, allowing them to build more complex, engaging sentences with ease. Through interactive activities, group practice, and personal feedback sessions, students will strengthen their writing proficiency and enjoy a greater sense of accomplishment in Bahasa Malaysia.
Foundation learners identify the words in Bahasa Malaysia for the types of food. They learned to speak in Bahasa Malaysia by saying “Saya suka makan…” (I like to eat…)
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We are excited to see our Upper Junior School learners develop their writing skills this term, applying S.K.O.P. as they create descriptive, well-structured sentences that showcase their growing confidence and command of the language!
The Lower Junior School learners in Foundation, Year 1 and Year 2 will emphasise speaking skills and vocabulary building to lay a strong foundation in the language. Through engaging, interactive word games, students will expand their vocabulary and gain confidence in using Bahasa Malaysia in daily conversations.
The Lower Junior School learners in Foundation, Year 1 and Year 2 will emphasise speaking skills and vocabulary building to lay a strong foundation in the language. Through engaging, interactive word games, students will expand their vocabulary and gain confidence in using Bahasa Malaysia in daily conversations.
In partners Year 4 constructed sentences in Bahasa Malaysia by using the SKOP method.
To make learning fun and impactful, students will participate in various language games designed to reinforce key vocabulary and pronunciation. These games, like Bingo Bahasa, Word Wall Matching, and Syllable Sort, encourage active participation and help learners practise speaking in a supportive and dynamic environment. By repeatedly hearing and saying new words, students improve their pronunciation and start building their conversational skills.
In addition to games, the program includes group activities that foster peer interaction, allowing students to practise words and phrases with their classmates. Teachers will guide learners to use new vocabulary in simple sentences and daily expressions, helping them feel more at ease with speaking in Bahasa Malaysia.
In addition to games, the program includes group activities that foster peer interaction, allowing students to practise words and phrases with their classmates. Teachers will guide learners to use new vocabulary in simple sentences and daily expressions, helping them feel more at ease with speaking in Bahasa Malaysia.
LOTE Bahasa Year 5 learners practised a lot using SKOP methods to construct sentences in the easiest way. Sangat bagus!
LOTE Mandarin
Mr Fong and Ms Lin, Junior School LOTE Mandarin Teachers
This term, our LOTE Mandarin students have been hard at work strengthening their language skills through a variety of academic practices and activities. From vocabulary-building exercises to interactive language games, students are developing their proficiency in Mandarin while having fun along the way. It’s been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and growing confidence as they engage with the language.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to celebrate the upcoming Winter Solstice in December. As part of this cultural tradition, students will have the opportunity to make glutinous rice balls (汤圆), a popular treat enjoyed during this festive season. This hands-on activity will not only be a delicious experience but also deepen students’ understanding of Chinese culture and traditions associated with the Winter Solstice.
We look forward to a wonderful term filled with learning, fun, and cultural exploration!
Looking ahead, we’re excited to celebrate the upcoming Winter Solstice in December. As part of this cultural tradition, students will have the opportunity to make glutinous rice balls (汤圆), a popular treat enjoyed during this festive season. This hands-on activity will not only be a delicious experience but also deepen students’ understanding of Chinese culture and traditions associated with the Winter Solstice.
We look forward to a wonderful term filled with learning, fun, and cultural exploration!
MIDDLE & SENIOR SCHOOL
AISM Reef Conservation Program Update
Christian Ogle, Service Learning Coordinator
We’re thrilled to share exciting updates from the AISM Reef Conservation Program! Our team has recently returned from a transformative dive expedition to the coral reefs of Malaysian Borneo, and they’ve begun producing media to showcase their work and raise awareness within our community. The first two videos, both of which beautifully capture highlights from the trip, are now available. Please click on the links below and enjoy!
The first video, cut, edited, and produced by Matilda Whitaker, offers a quick glimpse into the diverse activities our team took part in. The second video was cut, edited, and produced by Cedric Boudeville. It also spotlights key expedition moments. These videos are just the beginning, as the team will now focus on creating more conservation-centered media to deepen our understanding and appreciation of Malaysia’s precious marine ecosystems. Keep an eye out for more content soon, and join us in supporting reef conservation!
The next Expedition is slated for the April break 2025, although no specific dates have yet been established. If you are a Year 9 to Year 12 student interested in being a Team Member for the next Expedition, or if you are a parent who would like to see your child as a member of the 2025 Team, please contact Mr. Ogle (christiano@aism.edu.my) as soon as possible. There are limited seats available and once the maximum number is confirmed no more students can be added. Don’t miss your chance to make a difference!
The first video, cut, edited, and produced by Matilda Whitaker, offers a quick glimpse into the diverse activities our team took part in. The second video was cut, edited, and produced by Cedric Boudeville. It also spotlights key expedition moments. These videos are just the beginning, as the team will now focus on creating more conservation-centered media to deepen our understanding and appreciation of Malaysia’s precious marine ecosystems. Keep an eye out for more content soon, and join us in supporting reef conservation!
The next Expedition is slated for the April break 2025, although no specific dates have yet been established. If you are a Year 9 to Year 12 student interested in being a Team Member for the next Expedition, or if you are a parent who would like to see your child as a member of the 2025 Team, please contact Mr. Ogle (christiano@aism.edu.my) as soon as possible. There are limited seats available and once the maximum number is confirmed no more students can be added. Don’t miss your chance to make a difference!
WHOLE SCHOOL
Thinking Green
Simon Matheson, Head of Science and Technology
At AISM, "thinking green" is more than a mindset—it’s a way of life. In 2024, students and staff alike are part of a thriving community dedicated to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The school gardens flourish with student-led initiatives, where they learn hands-on about growing food and the importance of biodiversity. Recycling programs are ingrained in daily routines, and energy conservation efforts across the campus highlight an awareness of reducing our carbon footprint.
Education plays a pivotal role, with lessons that inspire curiosity and action around global challenges, preparing students to become future advocates for the planet. Healthy eating options and a focus on local, sustainable sourcing add another layer to AISM’s green initiatives, fostering well-being alongside environmental care. Habitat renewal projects also breathe life into native ecosystems, creating spaces where wildlife can thrive and biodiversity is protected.
In the words of David Attenborough, "The natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living." This ethos is mirrored in the vibrant engagement of AISM students, whose enthusiasm for creating sustainable futures shows that our global environment is in good hands. Special thanks to our teacher-led CIS Sustainability steering committee and our student represented Green Teams for building this culture and long-term awareness and action program. Through their innovative ideas and community leadership, the next generation is rising to meet the challenges of climate change and sustainability, proving that thinking green is not just an aspiration—it's a reality.
Education plays a pivotal role, with lessons that inspire curiosity and action around global challenges, preparing students to become future advocates for the planet. Healthy eating options and a focus on local, sustainable sourcing add another layer to AISM’s green initiatives, fostering well-being alongside environmental care. Habitat renewal projects also breathe life into native ecosystems, creating spaces where wildlife can thrive and biodiversity is protected.
In the words of David Attenborough, "The natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living." This ethos is mirrored in the vibrant engagement of AISM students, whose enthusiasm for creating sustainable futures shows that our global environment is in good hands. Special thanks to our teacher-led CIS Sustainability steering committee and our student represented Green Teams for building this culture and long-term awareness and action program. Through their innovative ideas and community leadership, the next generation is rising to meet the challenges of climate change and sustainability, proving that thinking green is not just an aspiration—it's a reality.
Pink October Bake Stall
Mrs. Mac & Nurse Alice, Health Services Nurses
The Pink October Bake Stall was a tremendous success, featuring an impressive assortment of pink-themed cakes and treats. The event drew enthusiastic participation from both students and staff, who lined up eagerly to support the cause and enjoy the variety of items available.
Five dedicated parent volunteers assisted at the stall, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Their support was invaluable, as items sold rapidly, reminiscent of a bustling bakery. The event was not only successful in fundraising but also fostered a strong sense of community and camaraderie.
Pink October Fun Run
Mrs. Mac & Nurse Alice, Health Services Nurses
The Pink October Fun Run for staff and parents was a resounding success, offering an enjoyable and energizing experience for all participants. Everyone wore the signature pink Fun Run t-shirts, adding to the spirit and unity of the event.
At the finish line, a photo booth with a pink-themed banner provided a memorable backdrop, with participants enthusiastically capturing the moment. Refreshments of chilled fruit were available, and each finisher received a medal as a token of accomplishment. The event celebrated fitness, community spirit, and support for a meaningful cause.
At the finish line, a photo booth with a pink-themed banner provided a memorable backdrop, with participants enthusiastically capturing the moment. Refreshments of chilled fruit were available, and each finisher received a medal as a token of accomplishment. The event celebrated fitness, community spirit, and support for a meaningful cause.
AISM 2024 Chess Tournament
Stephanie Rajani, French Teacher and Pastoral Coordinator Stage 5
Last week, AISM held its 2024 Chess Tournament, bringing together strategic thinkers from Junior School to Senior School, with even a few teachers stepping into the competitive spotlight. The tournament was a thrilling showcase of skill, concentration, and sportsmanship, enhanced by the use of chess clocks that added an extra layer of excitement and intensity to each match.
The final showdown was a gripping match between Year 12 students Derek and Lucas, both displayed remarkable focus and strategic depth. After a series of intense moves, Lucas emerged victorious, claiming the well-deserved first-place title. Congratulations to our winners: Lucas (1st place), Derek (2nd place), and Lukas T. (3rd place).
A big thank you to all students and staff who participated and supported the event. The AISM Chess Tournament has proven to be a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together and celebrate the game of chess. We look forward to more Chess events in the future that encourage strategic thinking, resilience, and friendly competition!
The final showdown was a gripping match between Year 12 students Derek and Lucas, both displayed remarkable focus and strategic depth. After a series of intense moves, Lucas emerged victorious, claiming the well-deserved first-place title. Congratulations to our winners: Lucas (1st place), Derek (2nd place), and Lukas T. (3rd place).
A big thank you to all students and staff who participated and supported the event. The AISM Chess Tournament has proven to be a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together and celebrate the game of chess. We look forward to more Chess events in the future that encourage strategic thinking, resilience, and friendly competition!
MSS Athletics Carnival
Ivan Yoong, Whole School CCA & Sports Coordinator
Save The Date
MSS Athletics Carnival - Rescheduled
- Date: Monday , November 25th
- Time: 8:45am - 3:00pm
- Venue: UNITEN Mini Stadium, 43000 Kajang, Selangor
Celebrating AISM’s 25th Anniversary: Special Admissions Fee Waiver for Siblings
As we proudly celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Australian International School Malaysia, we are thrilled to announce a special promotion for families in our community. In appreciation of your continued support and to share in this milestone with you, we are offering a 100% waiver on the admissions fee for any sibling not currently enrolled in AISM.
Promotion Details:
This special offer is our way of expressing gratitude to the wonderful families who make our school such a vibrant and inspiring place for learning. We hope this initiative supports your family’s journey with AISM and opens doors to more enriching educational experiences together.
Should you have any questions or wish to begin the admissions process, please reach out to our admissions team at admissions@aism.edu.my or contact us at 03 - 8949 5000.
Thank you once again for your partnership and support. Here’s to a future filled with more shared successes and growth.
Promotion Details:
- Admissions Fee Waiver: 100% waiver for siblings enrolling for Term 1/2025
- Eligibility: Families must have at least one other child already enrolled at AISM as a full admissions fee-paying student.
- Application Due Date: 31 December 2024
This special offer is our way of expressing gratitude to the wonderful families who make our school such a vibrant and inspiring place for learning. We hope this initiative supports your family’s journey with AISM and opens doors to more enriching educational experiences together.
Should you have any questions or wish to begin the admissions process, please reach out to our admissions team at admissions@aism.edu.my or contact us at 03 - 8949 5000.
Thank you once again for your partnership and support. Here’s to a future filled with more shared successes and growth.
Arrowhead Skills
