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Author: Gary Ly

Emotional Resilience Workshop for Parents: Learning as a Parent at AHI

Posted on by Gary Ly

On Wednesday, 18 March 2026, Anne Hill International School (AHI) kick-started the first session of its Parenting Workshop series for this academic year. The opening workshop focused on emotional resilience, a meaningful theme chosen to support parents in guiding their children through life’s emotional challenges.  

Hosted by Ms. Mili Manek, Mental Health Counsellor and Educator, Founder of Ehsaas, the session took place at the AHI Primary Campus (31 Giang Van Minh) from 8:30 to 9:30 AM. Parents gathered for an engaging morning of reflection, discussion, and practical learning, marking the start of a programme designed to strengthen family connections and equip parents with valuable skills.  

About the Speaker  

Ms. Mili Manek is a certified mental wellness counsellor with more than 20 years in international school settings. She is also the founder of Ehsaas by Mili, an initiative dedicated to supporting children and families in fostering emotional well-being.  

Drawing on her deep understanding of both classroom life and family dynamics, Ms. Mili brings together school-based insights with personalised emotional support. Her work ensures children feel valued and supported, both at home and in the classroom.  

  

Ms. Mili was sharing her insights on emotional resilience 

Introducing the Values Journey   

Mr Benjamin Cracknell, Primary Vice Principal for Academics and Pastoral Care (Years 1–3), opened the workshop by sharing AHI’s vision and the nine core values that guide our curriculum. He explained that these values, together with qualities such as resilience, a global outlook and holistic learning, shape each child’s journey. He also highlighted the importance of home and school working together, helping children feel secure and confident.    

Mr Benjamin Cracknell, Primary Vice Principal for Academics and Pastoral Care (Years 1–3), addressing parents at the workshop 

Exploring Real-Life Scenarios  

Throughout the workshop, parents explored many relatable situations that children often face. One scenario asked: “What would you do if your child came home in tears, saying no one wanted to play with them?” Discussions around such examples highlighted how everyday struggles can become opportunities to nurture resilience and problem-solving skills. Parents also engaged in meaningful conversations and actively participated in the discussions.   

Together, parents reflected on the balance between stepping in as the Protector and stepping back as the Coach, allowing children to discover their own strength and coping strategies. As Ms. Mili emphasises, “Resilience is not about avoiding struggle; it is about discovering the tools within ourselves to meet it.”    

 

Parent were reviewing the scenarios carefully 

Parents were engaging in meaningful conversations 

Parent Reflections  

Parents appreciated the interactive format, which included scenario-based questions and group sharing. Ms. Mili was also approachable and always ready to answer their questions, making the workshop feel supportive and accessible. One parent shared: “It was informative. As a parent of multiple children, it’s helpful to know that each child can have a different emotional reaction.”  

 Another parent also mentioned: “Knowing my child is in this school makes me very happy. The school provides meaningful events like the Emotional Resilience Workshop, which are helpful for parents and build a strong community. I hope more workshops like this will be organised in the future.”    

 

Ms. Mili was listening and responding to the parents 

The workshop also provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complete with refreshments and a light-hearted lucky draw, adding to the sense of community and connection among parents. It also encouraged parents to connect and learn from one another.  

 

A moment of joy – Ms. Mili was presenting a gift to the lucky draw winner 

Looking Ahead  

This session marked the beginning of AHI’s new Parent Workshop Series, designed to create space for meaningful conversations about children’s growth and emotional well-being. By equipping parents with practical insights, the school aims to strengthen parent-child connections and foster resilience in young learners.  

We thank all the parents who joined us and Ms. Mili for leading such an insightful session, and look forward to welcoming everyone to future workshops that offer opportunities to learn, share and grow together.  

10th AnneHillversary School Concert – Celebrating a Colourful Decade

Posted on by Gary Ly

On 6th December, at Hồ Xuân Hương Stadium (Ho Chi Minh City), Anne Hill International School (AHI), under the Anne Hill Education Group (AHEG), proudly hosted the AnneHillversary School Concert – “Celebrating a Colourful Decade”. This landmark event marked 10 years of international education at AHI, reflecting the school’s continuous growth, resilience, and long-term commitment to nurturing confident, compassionate, and globally minded learners.

As one of the most anticipated school events of the year, the anniversary concert brought together nearly 1,600 members, including students, parents, teachers, school leaders, and long-standing members of the AHI community. Through a dynamic combination of music, dance, and storytelling, the school concert vividly portrayed AHI’s journey over the past decade, which is shaped by learning, perseverance, and strong partnerships. 

Ahead of the school concert, students and families enjoyed a variety of booth activities in a vibrant atmosphere.

10 Years of Growth Through Performance 

The 10-year anniversary concert was thoughtfully designed to reflect key milestones in Anne Hill International School’s development. Each performance represented a stage in the school’s journey, highlighting the values that define AHI: holistic learning, creativity, confidence, collaboration, and global citizenship. Throughout the concert, it was easy to sense parents’ excitement and pride as they watched their children shine on stage, many for the very first time. We invite you to revisit its most memorable highlights through the video below.

Community at the Heart of Anne Hill 

Beyond the performances, the concert highlighted the strong sense of connection between families and the school, which is an essential part of the AHI community. This spirit of trust and collaboration was strongly reflected in the perspectives of the school’s leadership. Ms. Anne Hill, Co-Founder of AHEG, stated that: “The unwavering trust and companionship of families and educators have been the true foundation of the school’s success, describing the past ten years as a journey built on genuine collaboration and mutual respect.”

Ms. Anne Hill, Founder of Anne Hill Education Group, shared her reflections during the anniversary concert.

Reinforcing this shared spirit, Mr. Abraham Elias, Executive Director of Anne Hill Education Group, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the school and its wider community. He emphasised that Anne Hill’s growth has always been guided by a clear, humble vision and a strong belief in partnership as the foundation of a thriving school community. As he shared, “We are committed to our humble vision and to building a good school. Keep engaging us to make this a school of choice for our parents, students, and many others.” 

Mr. Abraham Elias, Executive Director, spoke on Anne Hill’s vision of partnership and community engagement.

Most significantly, this close partnership is deeply felt and proudly expressed by families within the AHI community. Sharing her perspective during and after the concert, Ms. Julia Doan, a parent with children studying at Anne Hill Education Group, appreciated the importance of committed and visionary school leadership in building a strong educational environment. Recognising the dedication of Ms. Anne Hill and the school team over the past decade, she added, “Compared to ten years ago, Anne Hill today has grown significantly—stronger and more developed.”

Introducing the AHI House System and School Mascot 

Adding to the excitement of the evening, Mr. Sean O’Maonaigh, Head of School, shared an important announcement that sparked strong interest among students and the wider school community. Beginning in January, Anne Hill International School will officially introduce a House System, an initiative led by the Student Council to strengthen student voice, belonging, and school spirit.

The new House System will be based on four mythical creatures—Phoenix, Griffin, Pegasus, and Dragon—and will create opportunities for inter-house activities, collaboration, and friendly competitions throughout the school year. Alongside this, Mr. Sean also announced the upcoming launch of AHI’s first official school mascot: the Turtle. In a later phase, our students will be actively involved in shaping and creating the final mascot design to reinforce AHI’s commitment to student agency and creativity.

Mr. Sean O’Maonaigh, Head of School, announced the launch of the AHI House System and the school mascot during the school concert.

A Decade of Shaping Futures — and Beyond 

 The 10th AnneHillversary School Concert – “Celebrating a Colourful Decade” marked a significant milestone in Anne Hill International School’s journey, reflecting a decade shaped by purpose, community, and steady progress. 

The success of the concert was made possible by the valued support of our sponsors and partners. We extend our sincere thanks to Sacombank, NuVi, California Cheese, The Caterers, School of Concepts, and Frotz for their meaningful contributions, which helped create a memorable experience for our students and families. We also gratefully acknowledge the many partners across F&B, stage production, sound and lighting, security, and the entire Hồ Xuân Hương Stadium team for their dedication and collaboration. 

School leadership was marking the 10-year milestone with a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony.

As Anne Hill International School moves into its next chapter, the school continues to focus on strengthening academic quality, enhancing learning environments, and delivering a personalised international education that nurtures every student’s growth. Looking ahead, Anne Hill Education Group plans to expand its academic pathway to include secondary education, responding to the evolving needs of students and families. This direction is further supported by AHEG’s strategic partnership with Nutifood Joint Stock Company in 2024, strengthening the Group’s capacity to advance its long-term educational vision. 

Building on a decade of steady growth, Anne Hill Education Group reaffirms its aspiration to become a leading international education provider in the eastern area of Ho Chi Minh City—offering a safe, inspiring, and future-ready learning environment for students and families.

 

Previous event at: (https://annehill.school/events_calendar/)

AHIS Tree Planting Day – Celebrating 10 Years of Growth & Sustainability

Posted on by Gary Ly

A Decade of Excellence and a Green Future

As Anne Hill International School (AHIS) marks its 10th anniversary, we proudly celebrate this milestone with a Tree Planting Day at our newly established AHI administration building. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainability, community spirit, and environmental responsibility.

A Symbol of Growth and New Beginnings

Students, parents, teachers, and staff gathered for this memorable event, where each class planted a tree pot—a lasting contribution to our school’s green landscape. These trees serve as a powerful symbol of growth, learning, and a sustainable future for our AHIS community.

Fostering School Spirit Through Sports​

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The day concluded with an exciting football match between parents and teachers, reinforcing camaraderie, teamwork, and the vibrant spirit of our AHIS family. This friendly match brought laughter, cheers, and unforgettable moments for everyone involved.

A Sincere Thank You to Our Community

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants for making Tree Planting Day a meaningful and successful event. Your enthusiasm and dedication truly embody the values of growth, collaboration, and sustainability that define AHIS.

Join Us on Our Journey!

As we enter a new decade, Anne Hill International School remains committed to nurturing young minds, fostering environmental awareness, and strengthening our community bonds. Stay connected with us for more exciting events and initiatives that shape the future of learning at AHIS!

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What is the International Primary Curriculum (IPC)?

Posted on by Gary Ly
This guide introduces the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), a globally recognised framework designed to enhance your child’s learning journey. We delve into its philosophy, structure, and unique features, providing practical advice to help you actively engage in your child’s education.

What is the IPC?

The IPC is a child-centred, internationally recognised curriculum for children aged 5–11. It emphasises thematic, engaging, and integrated learning experiences while fostering personal and international understanding.

Key Features

  1. Thematic and Creative: Units are designed around captivating themes like “Toys,” “Rainforests,” and “Mission to Mars,” sparking children’s curiosity and imagination.
  2. Integrated Learning: Subjects such as science, geography, and history are interconnected, helping children see how knowledge aligns across disciplines.
  3. Skills-Based: Focuses on enquiry, critical thinking, and the practical application of knowledge.
  4. International Mindedness: Encourages respect for cultural diversity while helping children build their sense of identity.
  5. Personal Development: Instills adaptability, resilience, and cooperation, preparing students for lifelong learning and global citizenship.
  6. Brain-Friendly and Fun: Lessons are engaging, challenging, and tailored to how children learn best.

Diagram Idea: Visual representation of the IPC pillars: Academic, Personal, and International Learning.

Why Choose?

The international Curriculum (IPC) aligns with our school’s mission to nurture lifelong learners who excel academically, socially, and emotionally. It combines academic rigour with personal growth and global perspectives.

Benefits

  1. Encourages Global Awareness: Helps children explore their own culture and heritage while appreciating others.
  2. Promotes Holistic Development: Balances academic learning with essential life skills like communication, adaptability, and collaboration.
  3. Incorporates Innovative Approaches: Caters to diverse learning styles, ensuring all students have opportunities to succeed.
  4. Creates Meaningful Connections: Links knowledge to real-world situations through integrated thematic units.

Learning Goals

  1. Each Milepost encompasses three types of goals:

    1. Subject Goals: Build knowledge, skills, and understanding in areas like science, geography, and art. Example: Create maps using pictures and symbols (Geography).
    2. Personal Goals: Cultivate qualities such as resilience, cooperation, and adaptability. Example: Demonstrate resilience by trying again after failure.
    3. International Goals: Foster global perspectives and an understanding of cultural interdependence. Example: Identify cultural differences and value them equally.

How Do IPC Units Work?

Each International Primary Curriculum (IPC) unit follows a structured approach to guide children’s learning:

Key IPC Terms:

  • Entry Point: A creative start to the unit, often involving hands-on activities.
  • Knowledge Harvest: Reflective activities to uncover prior knowledge and guide new learning.
  • Exit Point: Culminating events showcasing children’s learning to families.

Assessment in the IPC

The IPC employs a skills-based assessment framework, focusing on children’s developmental stages:

Features of IPC Assessment

Encourages self-assessment to foster motivation and understanding.

Evaluates key subjects such as science, geography, history, ICT, and international mindedness.

Diagram Idea: A chart showing the progression from Beginning → Developing → Mastering.

How Can Parents Support IPC Learning?

Subject Highlights

Art: Children receive 1–2 hours per week of art, integrated into IPC themes. Lessons foster creativity while achieving subject and personal learning goals.

Music: Weekly music lessons enhance teamwork, memory, and abstract thinking, guided by the IPC and National Curriculum (England).

PE: Children participate in 1–2 hours of physical activity weekly, promoting health, fitness, and resilience.

Our curriculum: Curriculum

Useful Resources for Parents

International Primary Curriculum (IPC) Official Website: (https://internationalcurriculum.com/)

School Resources: Keep an eye out for unit letters and school updates to stay informed.

The IPC transforms education into an exciting, engaging, and globally relevant journey for your child. By partnering with teachers and supporting your child’s learning at home, you can help them unlock their full potential.

Vietnamese Teachers’ Day 2024 at AHIS

Posted on by Gary Ly

At Anne Hill International School (AHIS), we take pride in honouring the dedication, passion, and tireless efforts of our educators who inspire, nurture, and guide our students every day. This year’s Vietnamese Teachers’ Day was a heartfelt celebration of gratitude, talent, and community spirit.

A Day Full of Gratitude and Talents

The celebration was brimming with vibrant performances by our students. Each act highlighted their creativity, that is at the heart of the AHIS community.

Parents also joined in the celebration, offering beautiful flowers and warm wishes to our teachers. Their gestures of gratitude not only underscored the respect for educators but also strengthened the unity within our school community.

Honoring Creativity in the “To My Teacher” Online Video Contest

A special congratulations to the outstanding students who excelled in the “To My Teacher” online video contest**! Your heartfelt messages of gratitude and creative storytelling left a lasting impression and showcased the values of respect and appreciation instilled at AHIS.

Thank You to Our Community

This meaningful day wouldn’t have been possible without the efforts of our exceptional teaching staff, the unwavering support from parents, and the incredible talents of our students. Together, we created memories to cherish and a celebration that truly reflected the spirit of AHIS.

To all educators, not just at AHIS but across Vietnam, Happy Vietnamese Teachers’ Day! Thank you for shaping young minds and inspiring a brighter future.

See more about our Teachers’ Day Assembly: link

Previous event at: (https://annehill.school/events_calendar/)

Introducing Mr. Sean P. O’Maonaigh: AHI’s New Head of School

Posted on by Gary Ly

At Anne Hill International School (AHI), we are committed to delivering exceptional education. A vital part of our journey is bringing in visionary leadership. We are excited to announce Mr. Sean P. O’Maonaigh as the new Head of School at Anne Hill International School.

“It is with great pleasure that I welcome you and your family to Anne Hill International School.

Every new school year brings exciting opportunities and experiences and we hope that students will be engaged and energized in pursuing their academic progress and personal, social and emotional learning.  We welcome new parents and students and hope they will feel excited and welcomed in our community.

Our values learning journey and curriculum objectives provide a continuum of learning that is interesting and challenging.   Our mission fosters internationally minded, caring young people who are motivated to succeed.  Our teachers and staff are focused on the progress of each student and are paced through a curriculum with individual attention.

Students learn across disciplines to cultivate independent skills. In an increasingly changing world students are encouraged to learn to consider both local and global contexts. In so doing, students learn intercultural understanding and work, play, and grow in their understanding of a world of wonder and possibilities.

We strive to make our school a place where there is mutual respect and trust, a place that honours difference, nurtures self-esteem and builds individual capacity.” – Mr. SEAN O’MAONAIGH – HEAD OF SCHOOL.

A New Chapter for Anne Hill International School

With over 30 years of global experience in education, Mr Sean has taught and led at prestigious institutions across Ireland, the Netherlands, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Vietnam. His expertise as a Head of School includes curriculum innovation, achieving accreditations, and fostering dynamic learning environments. Mr Sean’s qualifications include a Master of Education in International/Overseas School Management and a Certificate in International School Leadership. His impressive track record aligns perfectly with our mission at Anne Hill International School to nurture students and prepare them for a bright future.

A Proven Leader in Vietnam’s Educational Landscape

Mr Sean’s experience in Vietnam makes him a valuable addition to AHI. At ISHCMC, he introduced International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes and led a major campus expansion. Later, at Vinschool, Mr Sean designed bilingual education programs that benefited students across Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. As Principal of the European International School (EIS), he successfully guided the school’s accreditation by the Council of International Schools (CIS). Most recently, Sean worked with the XCL School Network in Thailand and Singapore. There, he led schools to improve their academic and operational standards.

Leading AHI Toward a Bright Future

As the new Head of School at Anne Hill International School, Mr Sean will bring innovative ideas and unmatched expertise to elevate our educational offerings. His leadership will further enhance student well-being, academic excellence, and community engagement. We warmly welcome Mr. Sean P. O’Maonaigh to the AHI family and look forward to an exciting future together.

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Discover more about AHI and stay updated on our latest news by following us on [facebook] or subscribing to our upcoming event at [event’s website].

Student Orientation for the AY 2024-2025 at Anne Hill International School

Posted on by Gary Ly

The start of a new academic year brings excitement, curiosity, and anticipation. At Anne Hill International School (AHIS), the orientation session for the 2024-2025 school year set the tone for another successful journey of learning and growth. This important event welcomed new and returning families, fostering a strong connection between the school community, students, and their families.

Welcoming Parents and Students


The day began with a warm welcome from the staff as parents and students arrived on campus. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as families were guided through the process, ensuring everyone felt comfortable and informed. The orientation program was designed to provide a smooth transition for both students and parents, giving them insights into what to expect in the upcoming year.

Meet the Principal and Teachers


One of the highlights of the session was the opportunity to meet Mr. Sean P. O’Maonaigh, the new Head of School, along with the dedicated teachers. Parents had the chance to hear directly from Mr. Sean about his vision and goals for the school. Additionally, the teachers introduced themselves and shared their classroom objectives, helping parents understand the learning environment and teaching approaches at AHIS.

Uniform Distribution


To ensure students are fully prepared for their first day, the orientation session included the distribution of school uniforms. Parents and students collected their uniforms, learning about the dress code guidelines and other practical details. This activity marked another step in getting ready for the school year, allowing students to feel confident and part of the school community.


The orientation session at Anne Hill International School successfully created a positive and welcoming environment for all participants. With a focus on clear communication, fostering relationships, and building a sense of community, the event was a great start to the 2024-2025 school year. Parents and students left the session equipped with the information, resources, and confidence they need for a successful academic year ahead.

See more about our Student Orientation Day: https://youtu.be/yDolfPgka7w

AHIS Student Wins Barcelona Piano Competition

Posted on by Gary Ly

Vietnamese student Tue Nhi from Anne Hill International School (AHIS) has earned an award at the Barcelona International Piano Talent Competition. Her exceptional performance at the Palau de la Música Catalana in Spain has brought pride to her school and Vietnam.

Vietnamese Student Triumphs at International Piano Competition

The Barcelona competition attracts talented young musicians from around the world. Despite facing strong competitors, Tue Nhi’s talent and dedication stood out. Her achievement is a reflection of the holistic education we provide at AHIS, where both academic and creative growth are equally valued.

Inspiring Achievement for Vietnamese Musician

By competing internationally, Tue Nhi has represented not only our school but also her country. Her success serves as an inspiration to her peers, showing that hard work and passion can lead to remarkable achievements. At AHIS, we continue to nurture students who strive for excellence both locally and globally.

Fostering Excellence at AHIS

At Anne Hill International School, we are committed to creating an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and creatively. We celebrate Tue Nhi’s remarkable journey and look forward to witnessing her future successes.

About Anne Hill International School:

Founded in 2015 in Ho Chi Minh City, Anne Hill International School (AHIS) offers high-quality international education for preschool and primary students. With over 40 nationalities represented, AHIS emphasizes academic excellence, life skills, and core values while promoting inclusivity and diversity.

For more information, visit: annehill.school
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