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Author: Gary Ly

Setting Boundaries: The Art of Saying “No”

Posted on by Gary Ly

Discover how setting healthy boundaries with children can help families communicate their needs and build stronger, more respectful relationships.

Saying “No” to your child can sometimes lead to tears, tantrums or endless negotiations. On the other hand, hearing “No” from your child can be equally frustrating, especially when you have their best interest at heart. Parents must balance firmness with empathy, making space for their children’s feelings without compromising on their stand. However, setting boundaries is easier said than done. But with the right approach, families can learn to communicate their needs, respect each other’s limits and build healthier relationships.

What Are Boundaries?

According to Psychology Today (2022), boundaries are where individuals draw the line between themselves and others. During the Parent Workshop “No is a Two-Way Street” held on 21st October 2026 at the Vo Truong Toan campus, Ms Mili Manek defined boundaries as the emotional, physical and mental space between you and another person that enables connection without collision.

Photo: “No is a Two Way Street” Parent Workshop led by Ms Mili Manek, a Mental Health Counsellor and Educator with over 20 years of experience.

There are three categories of boundaries: Personal boundaries refer to physical space; mental boundaries relate to your thoughts, values and decisions; and emotional boundaries are all about your feelings and needs, and how they interact with others.

As Ms Mili emphasised, it is important to build and maintain healthy boundaries not only to protect your peace of mind, but to prevent exhaustion or resentment, along with having mutual respect and emotional safety with others. Recognising when boundaries are crossed can also help us better understand our own needs and limits. Signs of crossed boundaries may include feeling uncomfortable or guilty, experiencing invasions of personal space, or feeling pressured to please others at your own expense.

Becoming aware is the first step towards change. With the help of communication frameworks shared by Ms Mili, parents can learn to set healthy boundaries and communicate them with confidence and empathy.

Explore highlights from Ms Mili’s Digital Balance Parent Workshop.

The B.A.L.L. Framework: The Art of Saying ‘No’

Photo: Parents respond to questions about setting boundaries with children during an icebreaker game using “Yes” and “No” cards.

When asked if they felt a surge of anxiety right before saying “No” to their child, most parents at the workshop raised their “Yes” cards, highlighting the emotional challenges that can come with setting boundaries.

The B.A.L.L. framework offers a practical approach to saying “No” clearly and respectfully, helping parents communicate their limits without unnecessary guilt.

  • B – Boundary: State your “No” clearly.
    Example: “No, you can’t have more screen time today.”
  • A – Acknowledge: Validate your child’s feelings or needs.
    Example: “I know you want to keep playing, and I understand that it’s hard to stop when you’re having fun.”
  • L – Limit: Give brief context without overexplaining or making excuses.
    Example: “It’s already past your screen time limit for today.”
  • L – Leave: Offer an alternative or another opportunity.
    Example: “You can continue playing tomorrow after you’ve finished your homework.”

Saying “No” does not mean dismissing your child’s feelings or shutting down the conversation. By setting clear limits while acknowledging their emotions with empathy, parents will show children that boundaries can coexist with care and understanding.

Photo: Practical phrases for setting limits, expressing discomfort and responding calmly.

The S.M.I.L.E. Framework: The Art of Receiving a “No”

Setting boundaries with children goes both ways. While parents teach their children to communicate their needs, they must also model how to respect the boundaries of others. Receiving a “No” gracefully encourages children to practice empathy, develop self-awareness and communicate respectfully. These skills can support their mental health and strengthen relationships both at home and beyond.

The S.M.I.L.E framework is a practical guide to receiving a “No” with understanding and respect, helping parents navigate responding without sounding defensive.

  • S – Stop: Pause and take a breath before reacting emotionally.
    Example: “I’m feeling upset, so I’ll take a moment before responding.”
  • M – Message: Separate the rejection from your self-worth. A “No” is not necessarily a reflection of your value as a person.
    Example: “It may be about timing, not me.”
  • I – Inquire: Ask gentle questions to understand the other person’s reasons, without pressuring them to change their answer.
    Example: “Is it because you don’t have the time right now?”
  • L – Learn: Reflect on the situation and consider what you can take away from it.
    Example: “I could have asked earlier.”
  • E – Evolve: Accept the response and move forward without dwelling on it.
    Example: “Thank you for letting me know.”

Learning to say “No” and accept it in return takes practice, but are crucial to building stronger relationships and setting boundaries with children. By setting a good example, parents can teach their children to express themselves honestly and let others do the same.

As Ms Mili reminded parents, “No is not rejection, it’s redirection.”

Sometimes, accepting a “No” simply means recognising that another path may be worth exploring.

Photo: Modelling healthy boundaries at home helps children build respectful relationships with others, including their peers at school.

Putting Boundaries into Practice

Setting boundaries is a skill that extends beyond parenting. The B.A.L.L. and S.M.I.L.E. frameworks can assist in conversations with friends, colleagues and other family members, allowing us to express our needs while respecting those of others.

Start by being intentional with how you communicate your needs in everyday life. Express them before frustration builds, take time to rest without feeling guilty, and be clear and respectful when explaining your limits rather than expecting others to guess how you feel.

A strong bond between parents and children is built on trust, understanding and respect for each other’s needs.

Remember that building healthy boundaries takes time and practice. Parents can begin with one situation at a time, focusing on what feels manageable and following through consistently, even when it feels uncomfortable. As these habits become more familiar, mutual respect will become a more natural part of family life.

Book a School Tour to discover AHI’s Nurturing Learning Environment:

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References

Inside Exit Points: Learning Through Real-World Projects

Posted on by Gary Ly

Exit Points are a celebration of learning at Anne Hill International School.

At Anne Hill International School (AHI), students demonstrate their learning in different ways, including through Exit Points, where they apply their knowledge and present their understanding through projects. However, as parents, it can sometimes be difficult to understand how these activities contribute to your child’s academic progress, especially when there is no traditional test involved. Understanding how Exit Points work, how students are assessed and how you can support your child can offer a clearer picture of this learning process.

What Is an Exit Point?

An Exit Point is the concluding stage of a unit in the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). It gives students an opportunity to bring together their learning, reflect on what they have understood and share their ideas with others. In the IPC, the International Curriculum Association (ICA) describes Exit Points as a way for children to consolidate their learning and celebrate their achievements.

Photo: Year 7 students presenting on the topic of Relationships.

At AHI, Exit Points celebrate students’ learning at the end of each unit. Through project-based learning, students demonstrate their knowledge and skills while working towards their final presentations, performances or exhibitions. Projects like these help students develop critical thinking skills by making meaningful connections between different subjects and the unit’s Big Idea. Understanding how their learning applies to real-world contexts helps students transfer their knowledge to new situations and solve problems beyond the classroom (National Research Council, 2000).

Exit Points contribute to students’ overall summative assessment, which consists of an Exit Point evaluation and a subject assessment. Throughout the project, teachers observe and evaluate how effectively students collaborate, communicate and apply their learning from across the unit. In terms of grades, students receive an overall attainment judgement using four levels: Working Below, Working Towards, Working At or Greater Depth. Together, these provide a holistic measure of each student’s achievement.

Learn more about the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) at AHI

Read more about the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) at AHI
View this reel to know what Exit Point looks like at AHI: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1108958372055080

Preparing for Exit Points: How Parents Can Help

Photo: Year 8 students proudly presenting their group work to a parent.

IMYC Exit Points require a considerable amount of preparation, creativity and teamwork. Over the course of each unit, students work towards producing exhibitions that may include presentations, models, dioramas, posters, interactive displays and other creative projects. While students are given time in school to prepare, they are also expected to contribute to their Exit Point projects at home.

As Exit Points often involve group work, students need to take responsibility for their individual contributions. This may involve completing assigned tasks independently at home or arranging opportunities to meet and work collaboratively with their group members.

Photo: A parent supporting Year 9 students during their Exit Point.

Parents can support their children by encouraging them to manage their time, communicate with group members and share responsibilities fairly. They can also help with practical arrangements, such as gathering materials or organising group meetings. Lastly, show an interest in their child’s learning. Parents may ask questions about the project’s connection to the unit’s Big Idea or how it applies in a real-world context to spark your child’s curiosity and deepen their engagement with the topic.

As Mr. Matthew, Vice-Principal (Academic & Pastoral Care Y4–Middle Years), advises:

“Offer encouragement and guidance, but ensure the work remains your child’s own.”

Ultimately, Exit Points are an important opportunity for students to develop independence, responsibility and collaboration. With parental support and the freedom to take ownership of their work, students can build confidence in their abilities and take pride in their achievements.

Learning That Lasts: Holistic Education at AHI

Photo: Mr Sean, Head of School, learning about the Year 9 students’ work and discoveries.

At AHI, holistic education is central to the school’s vision of nurturing “well-rounded, globally-minded, lifelong learners”. The IPC supports this vision by combining academic learning with personal and international development. Through Exit Points, students apply their knowledge to real-world contexts, make connections between subjects and explore different perspectives.

Learn more about Holistic Education at AHI.

As students develop their projects, they practise values such as resilience, empathy, collaboration and respect. Taking responsibility for their contributions, working through challenges with their peers and presenting their ideas also helps them build confidence, independence and communication skills.

These experiences extend beyond the completion of an Exit Point. By diligently preparing for and carrying out a group project, students develop the skills and values needed to navigate new challenges, understand different perspectives and continue growing as learners.

Discover AHI’s learning environment:

Book a School Tour at Anne Hill International School

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is an Exit Point in school?

An Exit Point is the concluding stage of a unit in the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) or International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). Students bring together what they have learnt and share their understanding through projects, presentations, exhibitions or other creative activities.

2. How is an Exit Point different from a test?

Unlike a traditional written test, an Exit Point allows students to demonstrate their learning through practical projects and presentations. Students apply their knowledge, make connections across subjects and develop skills such as communication, collaboration and creative thinking.

3. Are Exit Points graded?

Yes. Exit Points contribute to students’ overall summative assessment. Teachers evaluate students’ work as part of the Exit Point assessment, which is considered alongside a subject assessment. Students receive an overall attainment judgement of Working Below, Working Towards, Working At or Greater Depth.

4. What is the difference between IPC and IMYC?

The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) is designed for primary-aged students, while the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) is designed for students in the middle years. Both use thematic units to connect learning across subjects.

5. How can parents support their child before an Exit Point?

Parents can help their children plan their time, organise materials and communicate with group members. Most importantly, parents should offer guidance while allowing their children to take responsibility for their own contributions.

References

Winter Break Activities for Kids

Posted on by Gary Ly

Discover winter break activities for kids that encourage creativity, build practical skills and bring families closer together. When the school term comes to an end, children’s structured days of learning and enrichment give way to an open-ended holiday. However, winter break does not have to mean catching up on schoolwork or spending hours glued to devices. A balance of rest, learning and entertainment can help children enjoy a meaningful break and feel recharged for the next school term.

Every parent has been there: the school term ends, and suddenly, the usual routines of lessons, activities and learning give way to days with fewer plans. So, how can parents make the most of the winter break without filling every moment with activities?

The key is to create space for rest, exploration and meaningful time together.

Learn more: AHI Meaningful Family Summer Activities

Relax, Rest and Recharge

After a busy school term, winter break gives children a chance to step away from the pressure of lessons, projects and tests. Not every moment needs to be productive, and children should feel free to enjoy their holidays without having to meet goals or achieve specific outcomes.

According to Yogman et al. (2018), preschool children who were allowed to explore objects with minimal adult direction came up with three times as many unconventional uses for them as children who were given specific instructions. This highlights how giving children room to experiment can encourage creative thinking.

Photo: Students enthusiastically reading a storybook during break time.

Parents can make room for this kind of exploration by letting children build with blocks, draw, create stories or play with everyday household objects at their own pace. Reading, listening to music or journalling are other ways to enjoy quiet, self-directed activities.

While it is natural to want to make the most of the holidays, giving children the freedom to choose how they spend their time away from screens can help them enjoy a well-deserved break from their usual routine.

Bake Up New Skills

Learning can happen in unexpected places, and the kitchen is a great place to start. Baking is one of many educational activities for children that turn everyday experiences into opportunities to practise practical skills. Winter is also a wonderful time to bake festive sugar cookies together, giving families a chance to bond while children learn through hands-on experience.

According to CEHD Communications (2025), measuring ingredients introduces mathematical concepts such as fractions and quantities, while following a recipe helps children practise sequencing and learn new vocabulary.

Photo: Exploring a kitchen toy set during a Toddlers Club session at AHI Preschool.

Find a simple holiday cookie recipe online and let children get involved in measuring ingredients, mixing the dough and decorating the finished treats. Older children can take on a bigger challenge by doubling the recipe to make enough for the whole family, practising multiplication while learning to adjust ingredient quantities.

This winter break activity for kids is a fun way to put classroom skills to use and create something from scratch together.

Photo: Colourful Christmas cookies with festive decorations. Source: Pexels.

Enjoy a Movie Night Together

After an afternoon of baking, gather for a festive film with freshly baked cookies and a warm glass of milk. Revisit timeless classics such as *Home Alone* or *How the Grinch Stole Christmas* and share a few laughs while making new memories along the way.

Photo: Home Alone, a classic holiday film for a family movie night.

A family movie night can be about more than the story on screen. According to Common Sense Media (2025), watching films together gives parents and children opportunities to talk about characters’ feelings, understand different perspectives and learn about experiences beyond their own.

A simple question about a character’s choices can open the door to meaningful conversations, helping children develop empathy while giving families a chance to understand one another a little better.

Long after the credits roll, it may be these small moments together that children remember most.

[Choosing What Works for Your Family]

The holidays are a time for celebration, relaxation and spending time with loved ones. Whether you are baking festive treats, enjoying a favourite film together or discovering something new, these shared experiences can become cherished family memories. Choose the winter break activities that suit your family best and enjoy making the most of your time together.

For families looking for school holiday activities in Ho Chi Minh City to add some structure to the break, AHI’s Winter Camp offers children opportunities to learn, explore and connect with others during the holidays.

Find out more about AHI’s Winter Camps.

Book a School Tour to discover AHI’s approach to holistic learning.

References

Yogman, M., Garner, A., Hutchinson, J., Hirsh-Pasek, K., & Golinkoff, R. M. (2018). The power of play: A pediatric role in enhancing development in young children. Pediatrics, 142(3), Article e20182058.

Read the research paper: The Power of Play

CEHD Communications. (2025, December 19). Learning through baking. Texas A&M University, School of Education and Human Development.

Read the article: Learning Through Baking

Common Sense Media. (2025, July 17). Why watching TV and movies is better together.

Read the article: Why Watching TV and Movies Is Better Together

Facility Updates for Term 1 – Academic Year 2026 – 2027

Posted on by Gary Ly

Anne Hill International School (AHI) has introduced new and upgraded facilities for the Academic Year (AY) 2026–2027 across its campuses in Ho Chi Minh City. These include the new Vo Truong Toan Campus, the Administration Area and Primary Campus in Giang Van Minh, and the Preschool Campus in An Phu. The updates feature refreshed classrooms, new sports areas and enhanced amenities to provide a more conducive environment for learning and outdoor activities.

Photo: The new football field at AHI’s Vo Truong Toan Campus, one of the school’s new facilities.

AHI School Facilities: What’s New

The opening of AHI’s new Vo Truong Toan Campus marks a key development for the school in AY 2026–2027. Alongside this milestone, improvements to existing facilities across its campuses help better support the day-to-day needs of the school community.

Photo: The new library at AHI’s Vo Truong Toan Campus, giving students access to a wider range of books and reading materials.

Each update addresses practical needs across the school community, whether by providing more space for physical activity, making movement between classes more efficient or creating more welcoming spaces for students and families. These facilities and amenities reflect AHI’s continued commitment to developing its campuses in line with the needs of its growing community.

Learn more about AHI’s new Secondary Campus: Anne Hill’s New Campus in Ho Chi Minh City for AY 2026–2027.

Facility Updates Across AHI Campuses

Administration Area: More Space for Sports and Recreation

The Administration Area at 19 Giang Van Minh now features a new multi-purpose court, playground and outdoor gym. The gym includes pull-up bars, monkey bars, a climbing net and parallel bars, giving students more options for outdoor activities and physical exercise.

Photo: The renovated outdoor gym area at AHI’s 19 Giang Van Minh Administration Area, featuring climbing equipment.

Photo: The outdoor multi-purpose court at AHI’s 19 Giang Van Minh Administration Area.

Students and families are welcome to use the football field, multi-purpose court and playground after school on weekdays, from 3 pm to 5 pm, subject to school guidelines. As AHI staff will not be present after school, students must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or responsible adult when using these facilities to help ensure a safe environment.

Primary Campus (31 Giang Van Minh): Refreshed Learning Spaces

At the Primary Campus, classrooms and corridors in Block A have been refreshed with new lighting and freshly painted walls, creating brighter spaces for daily lessons. A connecting door between Blocks A and B makes it easier for students and staff to move between the buildings. A new covered walkway between the canteen and the Year 5 classrooms also provides shelter during rainy weather.

Photo: The upgraded playground at AHI’s Primary Campus, featuring a covered play structure with a slide.

Block D has received additional outdoor gym equipment, including a multi-play structure, alongside improvements to the connecting shelter. These upgrades help make everyday movement around the campus more convenient and enjoyable.

Primary and Secondary Campus (12 Vo Truong Toan): New Facilities and Amenities

The new Primary and Secondary Campus at 12 Vo Truong Toan opened for AY 2026–2027, extending AHI’s learning pathway to Secondary education. Its facilities include purpose-built classrooms, science laboratories, a Design and Technology Lab, a library, a Multi-Purpose Hall and a 25-metre swimming pool. Equipped with specialised resources, these facilities support innovative and independent learning while catering to students’ different interests and learning needs.

Learn more about our Secondary curriculum.

Photo: Facilities at the Vo Truong Toan Campus.

Photo: The renovated administrative building at 14B Vo Truong Toan, housing the Admissions Office, uniform shop and EM Café.

The renovated administrative building at 14B Vo Truong Toan houses the uniform shop, Admissions Office and Admissions Test Room. Another exciting addition is EM Café, AHI’s new on-campus coffee shop, available at both 12 and 14B Vo Truong Toan. With indoor and outdoor seating, EM Café offers parents and visitors a comfortable place to relax, enjoy a thoughtfully handcrafted drink and stay connected with school life at AHI.

Photo: EM Café at 12 Vo Truong Toan.

Photo: Biometric access gates at AHI’s Primary Campus entrance.

Biometric access gates have also been installed across the Giang Van Minh and Vo Truong Toan campuses to support secure entry.

Photo: New personalised lockers to safeguard students’ belongings.

Additional premium lockers have been introduced in Building H of the Vo Truong Toan Campus to accommodate students alongside the lockers provided at the start of the academic year. Fitted with combination locks, each locker features a personalised name label and House sticker, giving students a secure and easily identifiable space to store their belongings.

Preschool Campus (32 An Phu): Upgraded Outdoor Spaces

Photo: The upgraded playground flooring at AHI’s Preschool Campus.

At the Preschool Campus at 32 An Phu, the playground has been upgraded with new swings and a seesaw, alongside rubber flooring. These additions give younger students more opportunities for outdoor play and movement.

Photo: The eco-garden mural at AHI’s Preschool Campus.

Photo: A lively birthday mural for AHI Preschool students.

New eco-garden and birthday-themed murals have also brought colour to the Preschool environment. The hand-painted birthday mural features a three-dimensional design that allows students to interact with the scene and take memorable birthday photos. This thoughtful addition brings a personal touch to birthday celebrations at AHI, giving students a special backdrop to mark their day.

Large canopy umbrellas provide additional shelter outdoors, while a reorganised parking gate and dedicated staff parking help support the daily arrival and departure routines of the school community.

Supporting Students’ Learning at AHI

Every space on campus plays a part in a student’s school journey. In refurbished classrooms, learning continues each day; on the playground, friendships take shape; and on the sports field, students discover new interests and abilities. The updated facilities at AHI provide welcoming spaces for students to learn, explore and spend time with their peers, while offering more opportunities to learn beyond the classroom.

As AHI continues to develop, we would like to thank our teachers, staff and parents for being part of this journey. Their support and contributions have been integral to AHI’s growth. As Mr Noel, Vice-Principal – Curriculum & Student Life, noted, we “look forward to continuing to provide our students with opportunities to learn, participate, lead and grow throughout the year.”

Looking ahead, we are excited for another year of community-driven opportunities for our students. We will continue to share the latest updates on our school facilities as AHI grows and develops.

Book a School Tour to discover AHI’s campuses and learning facilities.



October 2026 Coffee Morning: Phonics and Reading Habits for AHI Families

Posted on by Gary Ly

Anne Hill International School (AHI) held its October Coffee Morning sessions on 6 and 8 October 2026 at An Phu Campus (Preschool) and Vo Truong Toan Campus (Primary & Secondary), Ho Chi Minh City. The two sessions, “Helping Your Child to Read: The Power of Phonics” for Preschool parents and “Developing Reading Habits” for Primary parents, offered practical insights and group discussions on supporting children’s reading development at different stages. As part of Coffee Morning at AHI, parents also connected with the Academic Leadership Team and explored ways to encourage learning beyond the classroom.

Photo: Mr Benjamin Cracknell, Vice-Principal (Lower Primary), introducing the topic of developing reading habits during the Primary Coffee Morning at AHI Multi-purpose Hall.

Coffee Morning with the Leadership Team: Connecting Home and School

Coffee Morning at AHI is held monthly across the school’s three campuses, giving parents opportunities to connect with the Academic Leadership Team (ALT). In addition, quarterly sessions with the Executive Management Board (EMB) provide first-hand updates on key school initiatives and developments, alongside insights into upcoming plans and strategic priorities. Parents can also share their perspectives through two-way discussions, with their feedback helping shape AHI’s continued growth and development.

Photo: Coffee and refreshments prepared for parents during Coffee Morning at AHI.

In October, the Preschool session explored the role of phonics in early reading, while the Primary session focused on developing reading habits and motivating children to read. Led by Ms Leean Woodland, Vice-Principal (Preschool), and Mr Benjamin Cracknell, Vice-Principal (Lower Primary), respectively, the sessions combined insights from the hosts with group discussions. Over coffee and refreshments, parents shared their experiences and discussed practical ways to support their children’s learning at home. The intimate, small-group setting also gave parents opportunities to hear different perspectives and learn from other families’ experiences.

One parent shared how much they appreciated the opportunity to exchange ideas and learn from other families facing similar situations. The sessions deepened parents’ understanding of their children’s development and how to support their growth both in and beyond the classroom.

Preschool Coffee Morning (6 October): The Power of Phonics

Photo: Ms Leean Woodland introducing phonics at the Preschool Coffee Morning.

Fun and laughter filled the Preschool Coffee Morning workshop on 6 October at Room F.004, An Phu Campus. Hosted by Ms Leean Woodland, the session, “Helping Your Child to Read: The Power of Phonics”, introduced parents to practical approaches for supporting their children’s early reading development.

Ms Leean first introduced parents to basic yet effective guidelines for helping children learn to read more quickly and enjoy the process. She then demonstrated the approach by guiding parents through reading unfamiliar Russian letters, showing how quickly adults could learn when using the right techniques. For parents, the task offered a glimpse of the challenges children face when first learning the alphabet and blending phonetic sounds into words.

Through this exercise, parents experienced first-hand the challenges of learning an unfamiliar writing system. Ms Leean’s demonstration showed how the right techniques can make reading feel less daunting, highlighting the value of patience and encouragement as children build confidence and develop a lasting enjoyment of reading. Parents left the workshop feeling empowered to support their children on their reading journey.

Learn more about our Preschool curriculum.

Primary Coffee Morning (8 October): Developing Reading Habits

In the “Developing Reading Habits” session, Mr Benjamin Cracknell, Vice-Principal (Lower Primary), explored why some children read independently while others need more encouragement. He highlighted that developing reading skills is only part of the journey. Motivation, curiosity and autonomy are equally important in helping children become regular readers. Rather than following a rigid routine, families were encouraged to find what works best for their child. As Mr Ben explained, “There is not one perfect reading routine. The best one is the one that works for you, your child and your family.”

Photo: A selection of books used in the Primary curriculum at AHI.

Photo: Parents connecting over discussions about books at the Primary Coffee Morning at AHI.

Finding the right time is a crucial part of establishing a reading routine. One parent reflected on how children’s energy levels affect their willingness to read, sharing, “That also correlates to energy levels. It is much harder to get them to read after a long day at school, whereas it is easier if it is a weekend activity like spending a Saturday afternoon at a bookstore.”

The discussion highlighted how reading can become a more natural part of family life when it fits a child’s interests and daily schedule.

Parents put these ideas into practice through a role-play activity, working in smaller groups to discuss scenarios involving students with different reading habits. These included a Year 1 student who enjoyed being read to but avoided reading independently, a Year 3 student who preferred comics and graphic novels, and older children who had lost interest in books or increasingly turned to screens. The activity encouraged parents to consider what might be behind a child’s reluctance to read and how they could respond to their individual needs.

Photo: Parents taking part in a role-play activity, exchanging ideas and perspectives.

Mr Ben encouraged parents to let children explore different types of reading material, including comics, graphic novels and magazines, rather than limiting them to chapter books. As he put it, “Life is too short to read books that do not interest you.”

Giving children the freedom to choose what they read can help sustain their interest, while reading together allows parents to share that enjoyment with them. Even when children can read independently, sharing stories introduces new vocabulary and more complex texts without the pressure of reading alone. Together, these approaches can help make reading an enjoyable and lasting part of family life.

A Shared Conversation: Building Home-School Partnerships

Photo: Parents presenting their key takeaways following small-group discussions.

Coffee Mornings at AHI reflect the value of a strong home-school partnership. By exploring relevant topics together, these sessions encourage parent engagement and help families gain a clearer understanding of how children learn and the different ways they can be supported at home and at school.

Thank you to all the parents who joined us and contributed to the October Coffee Mornings. We look forward to welcoming more families to future sessions as we continue learning and growing together as one community.

Want to explore more? Take a look at our Events Calendar.

Book a School Tour to discover AHI’s learning environment.


 

Maths at AHI: Learning Through Mastery

Posted on by Gary Ly

Maths at Anne Hill International School (AHI) helps students build a deeper understanding of mathematics through mastery, reasoning and problem-solving.

For many parents, maths lessons often bring back memories of repetition and memorising methods, sometimes without fully understanding why they work. At Anne Hill International School (AHI), the approach centres on mastery: giving children the time and space to understand a concept thoroughly before moving on. So, how is Maths taught at AHI, and what helps make this often challenging subject feel more approachable for Primary and Secondary students?

What Is the Mastery Approach?

White Rose Maths describes the approach as a “journey to mastery”, rather than something students simply achieve and move on from. Mathematical understanding develops over time as students revisit and build on concepts through increasingly complex ideas and different contexts. Through carefully structured learning and practice, students gradually develop the confidence to apply what they know to unfamiliar problems and adapt their knowledge to new situations (White Rose Maths, 2018).

At AHI, the Mastery Approach is central to how students learn mathematics, with a strong emphasis on reasoning rather than memorising methods.

This approach is supported by White Rose Maths, which provides the curriculum framework and resources used for maths at AHI. Based on the English National Curriculum, White Rose Maths offers consistent progression from Years 1 to 9, with a focus on mastery, reasoning and problem-solving.

Photo: AHI students actively engaging and taking charge of their learning.

At AHI, this journey is supported by three key characteristics of the Mastery Approach: all students learn the same core content, lessons use the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) approach to build understanding step by step, and there is a strong focus on mathematical reasoning.

The CPA approach is a three-stage teaching method in which learners first use physical objects and manipulatives (concrete), then move to visual representations such as drawings or diagrams (pictorial), and finally work with numbers and mathematical symbols (abstract) (Third Space Learning, 2025). Together, these principles help students develop a deeper and more lasting understanding of the subject.

Photo: Hands-on learning helps students turn mathematical concepts into something they can see, explore and understand.

Learn more about our Primary curriculum and Secondary curriculum.

Inside a Maths Lesson at AHI

At AHI, the Mastery Approach is built into the structure of each maths lesson. Lessons begin with retrieval practice, where students revisit questions from previous lessons, terms and years to strengthen their recall and connect new learning with what they already know.

This is followed by the “I do, We do, You do” approach. As Mr Matthew, Vice Principal (Academic & Pastoral Care for Y4–Middle Years), explained during the Coffee Morning sessions on 9th and 10th September 2026:

“’I do’ means Teacher models the method, thinking aloud. ‘We do’ means class works together on guided examples. ‘You do’ Independent practice in books.”

Photo: Teachers first guide students through each step, building understanding together.

Students also use the CPA approach to develop their understanding step by step. They may first work with practical objects, such as counters or cubes, before using visual representations such as bar models and finally moving towards abstract mathematical symbols and notation. This allows students to build conceptual understanding before applying their knowledge in a variety of situations.

Photo: The Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) approach helps students build mathematical understanding step by step.

Reasoning and problem-solving are the backbone of lessons. Students are encouraged to explain how they reached an answer and explore different ways of approaching a problem. Once students demonstrate that they have understood a concept, they are given opportunities to explore it in greater depth through additional reasoning tasks and open-ended investigations, rather than simply moving on to new content.

To track students’ mathematical progress and understanding, AHI uses a range of assessments. These include ongoing assessment during lessons, White Rose assessments, multiplication tests, and termly arithmetic and reasoning assessments.

Image: AHI students’ maths assessment results across Autumn, Spring and Summer. (Source: AHI Assessment Data Report – July 2026)

The end-of-year White Rose Maths assessments show a broadly consistent picture of mathematics attainment across AHI. Results were broadly in line with those of schools of a similar size and context, with Year 4 standing out as an area of comparative strength at 6 percentage points above the comparison group. The differences across the remaining year groups were relatively small, while Year 2 recorded the strongest improvement across the year, rising from 65% in Autumn to 76% in Summer.

The Cambridge Primary Checkpoint results provide another measure of student performance. In 2024, AHI students achieved an average Mathematics score of 34, compared with the international average of 31. In 2026, the AHI average increased to 36, six points above the international average. The 2026 results also show improved performance across areas including Number and Geometry and Measure.

These results provide a snapshot of how AHI students are performing in mathematics, alongside the ongoing assessments used in the classroom.

Learn more about our students’ achievements: Year 6 (Class of 2026) at Anne Hill International School Achieved Best-Ever Cambridge Checkpoint Results.

Supporting Maths Learning at Home

Supporting children with maths learning at home does not mean re-teaching the lesson or giving them the answer. Instead, parents can encourage children to work through problems independently by asking questions such as:

  • “What do you already know?”
  • “Could you draw it?”
  • “How could you check your answer?”
  • “Can you explain your thinking?”

Parents are also encouraged to give children time to work through challenges, use equipment or drawings when needed, and understand that mistakes are part of learning.

Building confidence in maths starts with how children experience it at home. Parents should speak positively about maths and avoid comments such as “I was never good at maths.” Praising effort, perseverance and good thinking can help children stay engaged, while short, regular practice of number bonds, multiplication tables and mental maths facts can help strengthen their skills.

Photo: Fractions can be learned through sharing a pizza and understanding how each slice represents a part of a whole. (Source: Pexels)

Additionally, maths can be integrated into everyday activities. Parents can involve children in telling the time, discussing schedules, comparing prices while shopping, using fractions when sharing food, and estimating or measuring when helping out in the kitchen. These everyday situations provide opportunities for children to apply mathematical thinking in contexts beyond the classroom.

Beyond the Numbers

At AHI, our approach to teaching maths aims to build a strong foundation while helping students develop confidence, reasoning and problem-solving skills. The Mastery Approach extends beyond mathematics, encouraging students to look beyond the surface, develop a deeper understanding and apply their thinking to different situations.

In doing so, AHI helps foster a mindset of lifelong learning, empowering students to confidently apply what they have learnt beyond the classroom. Intentional and mindful learning continues both in school and at home, giving students space to reason and explore different ways of thinking. When parents and teachers work together, a student’s curiosity can grow into confidence, and knowledge finds purpose beyond the classroom.

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References

White Rose Education. (2018, September 26). The journey to mastery. https://whiteroseeducation.com/latest-news/the-journey-to-mastery

Third Space Learning. (2019). What is the Concrete Pictorial Abstract approach? https://thirdspacelearning.com/blog/concrete-pictorial-abstract-maths-cpa/

Mid-Autumn Festival 2026 at AHI: Celebrating Culture Together

Posted on by Gary Ly

On 25th September 2026, Anne Hill International School (AHI) celebrated Mid-Autumn Festival 2026 across its Giang Van Minh campus and 32 An Phu campus in An Khanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. This annual celebration brought together students, parents and teachers through a joyful mix of performances, cultural activities and festive traditions. The celebration featured lively lion dances, student performances, cultural booths, mooncakes and handmade lanterns, bringing the AHI community together to experience and appreciate different cultural traditions.

Photo: Students brought the spirit of Mid-Autumn Festival to life in colourful traditional outfits at AHI.

Celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival 2026 at AHI

Across AHI campuses, students, teachers, parents and staff came together to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival 2026 in a cosy atmosphere. Students dressed in traditional costumes like Áo dài and other colourful attire, while families gathered to enjoy performances and take part in the celebrations.

Photo: Preschool students performing a lantern dance in traditional outfits during the Mid-Autumn Festival celebration.

The programme featured Vietnamese and Mandarin songs and dances, with students taking to the stage as their schoolmates, teachers and parents cheered them on. Parents also captured special moments as their children performed, while the lion dance performance at AHI added to the excitement across the campuses.

One AHI parent excitedly shared, “My favourite part was the warm and festive atmosphere. It was wonderful to see the children enjoying the celebration together and engaging in meaningful cultural activities.”

Photo: Students watched the lion dance with excitement during the Mid-Autumn Festival celebration.

Photo: A proud parent capturing a special moment as their child performed on stage.

Mr Noel, Vice Principal (Student Life & Curriculum) of AHI, also enjoyed seeing students and families embrace the occasion, sharing, “I also love seeing our community and our children dress up in their beautiful traditional clothes.”

The celebration gave students a chance to discover how different Asian cultures mark the Mid-Autumn season. In Vietnam, Tết Trung Thu is known for lanterns, mooncakes and lion dances. In Korea, Chuseok is a major three-day holiday centred on family and the harvest, while Otsukimi in Japan is a traditional moon-viewing celebration linked to the autumn full moon and the folk story of Tsuki no Usagi, the rabbit said to live on the moon.

Mid-Autumn Activities and Performances

Beyond the stage performances, students took part in Mid-Autumn crafts. Students from Years 1 to 4 decorated lanterns, while Years 5 to 10 assembled lion heads, giving them an opportunity to learn about the festival through creating and making.

Reflecting on the celebration, Ms Trinh, Senior Event Executive, shared, “What stays with me is the classroom activities – decorating lanterns and assembling lion heads. That is when the students get hands-on experience and learn about the Mid-Autumn traditions in Vietnam.”

These Mid-Autumn cultural activities were complemented by cultural booths prepared and decorated by AHI parents, giving students another way to explore traditions from Vietnam, Japan and Korea.

Photo: AHI parents brought Tết Trung Thu to life with traditional treats, colourful decorations and festive details.

Photo: Our AHI parents showcased the traditions of Chuseok through traditional foods and festive decorations.

Photo: A closer look at Otsukimi, Japan’s traditional moon-viewing celebration, thoughtfully brought together by AHI parents.

Alongside the cultural booths, mooncakes generously donated by the AHI community added to the festivities. When asked about their favourite parts of the celebration, students highlighted simple Mid-Autumn favourites such as enjoying mooncakes, making lanterns and watching the lion dance. A photobooth at the assembly also gave students a chance to capture memories with their friends and celebrate together.

Photo: Students had fun posing with their friends and capturing memories at the Mid-Autumn Festival photobooth.

The lanterns and lion heads that students had handmade and decorated were also displayed during the assembly, adding their own creativity and colour to the celebration. Together, these activities gave students the chance to take part in familiar Mid-Autumn traditions while learning more about the cultures behind them.

Coming Together as a Community

Photo: School Mentor & Co-founder Ms Anne Hill welcoming the AHI community and sharing a warm message during the celebration.

The Mid-Autumn Festival 2026 celebration brought the AHI community together through performances, cultural activities and traditions. Students performed on stage and created their own lanterns and lion heads, while parents prepared cultural booths and cheered from the audience. Their involvement made the celebration more than a school event, creating a shared experience where students, parents and teachers could learn about and celebrate different cultural traditions together.

At the An Phu campus, Ms Anne Hill highlighted how special it is to see parents cheering for their children from the audience, as their encouragement can make students feel proud, supported and happy to share their moment on stage. It was a simple but meaningful way for families to show their support and be part of their children’s experience.

Photo: Parents cheering and dancing along as their little stars shine on stage.

These experiences gave students opportunities to encounter different cultures, learn from one another and appreciate the diversity within AHI, a school community representing over 30 nationalities. Celebrations like this support AHI’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where children can grow with curiosity, respect and an appreciation for different cultures.

We would like to thank all the students, parents, teachers and staff who contributed to this year’s celebration and helped make Mid-Autumn Festival 2026 at AHI a special occasion for the community.

Looking Ahead

As the school year continues, there are more opportunities for the AHI community to come together. Next up is AHI’s Halloween Charity Bazaar on Saturday, 31st October 2026, bringing students, families and the wider community together for a day of activities, food, workshops and more.

To discover upcoming events and activities at Anne Hill International School, explore our Events Calendar.

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Book a School Tour to discover AHI’s diverse and welcoming community and learn more about how we support students in their learning and development.


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AHI Halloween Bazaar Returns This October 2026

Posted on by Gary Ly

Anne Hill International School (AHI) will host its Halloween Bazaar on Saturday, 31st October 2026, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM across three campuses in An Khanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. Returning after a three-year break, the Bazaar will bring families and the wider community together for Halloween-themed activities, food, workshops and interactive experiences. More than 3,000 visitors are expected to attend, with participating vendors spanning F&B, kids and family-friendly concepts, fashion, gifts and lifestyle. The event will also support the Education Fund (EdFund) of the Singapore Chamber of Commerce Vietnam.


Image: AHI Halloween Bazaar 2026 brings families and the wider community together for a day of Halloween-themed fun and giving.

AHI Halloween Bazaar: A Bazaar with a History

The AHI Halloween Bazaar has become a tradition at our school, bringing together families, children, businesses and the wider community to celebrate Halloween while giving back.

Over the past 6 years, this community event has welcomed more than 11,000 visitors, worked with 300 or more brands and sponsors, and reached more than 300,000 people through its events and communications. Each edition has combined family entertainment, creative activities, food and community connections with a charitable cause, extending the Bazaar’s impact beyond the school gates.


Image: AHI’s Halloween Bazaar, a long-standing school tradition bringing our community together to celebrate and give back.

This year’s edition builds on that history. The AHI Halloween Bazaar returns on Saturday, 31st October 2026, across AHI’s three campuses — 32 An Phu, 31 Giang Van Minh, and 12 Vo Truong Toan — in An Khanh Ward, with more than 80 partners and sponsors taking part and 3,000 or more visitors expected over the course of the day.

What’s Happening at the AHI Halloween Bazaar 2026

Image: The AHI Halloween Bazaar returns on 31st October 2026, in support of EdFund.

This year’s Halloween activities are shaped around three kinds of experiences.

For families looking to spend time outdoors, there will be a pumpkin patch village, sports experiences, games, stage performances, and a haunted house and fun zone.

For those after something more hands-on, a range of workshops and creative activities will give children the chance to try something new and take part directly, making this a charity bazaar for children as much as for the adults alongside them.

For parents browsing with children in tow, kids and family-friendly stalls will offer toys, children’s products and family services alongside the day’s food and beverage options.

Together, these activities turn the Bazaar into more than a single afternoon out. As a Halloween bazaar for families, it brings food, shopping and hands-on experiences together in one place, giving families across Ho Chi Minh City a reason to spend the day together while contributing to something beyond their own enjoyment.

AHI Halloween Bazaar: A Bazaar with a Purpose

This year, proceeds from the Bazaar will go to the Education Fund (EdFund), which provides financial assistance through school fee scholarships to disadvantaged and deserving students pursuing their education (Singapore Chamber of Commerce Vietnam, n.d.).

In practice, this means every family or business taking part in this school fundraising event is doing more than enjoying a day of Halloween festivities. Their participation directly supports students who might otherwise face financial barriers to continuing their education, turning a single day of celebration into a contribution that lasts well beyond October.

It is this combination of celebration and purpose that gives the Bazaar a wider community impact, bringing families and businesses together while supporting educational opportunities for students in need.

Join Us at AHI Halloween Bazaar

Whether you are a business looking to connect with the community or a family looking forward to the holiday, everyone is welcome to be part of the AHI Halloween Bazaar.

Businesses can register as a vendor through the registration here: Register as a Vendor

For the latest announcements, event details and updates, follow AHI on Facebook and Instagram. More information about the Bazaar will be shared through AHI’s social media channels as the event approaches.

Learn More About AHI News

To explore what is coming up next, take a look at our Events Calendar and discover the activities we have planned.