World Harmony Day at AHI: Families Exploring Global Cultures

Last Saturday, 18 April, Anne Hill International School welcomed families to its April Open Day: World Harmony Day. Families brought energy to the campus. Kids tried new experiences, parents enjoyed the booths and food, and everyone joined in the activities. Teachers and staff also connected with families, sharing about learning and community. These conversations gave parents a clearer picture of how Anne Hill International School celebrated diversity and promoted world harmony.

The event was not simply about showcasing facilities. It was about culture, diversity, and the joy of discovery. Families had the chance to see how our international school nurtures learners to explore the world, enjoy new perspectives, and grow into confident global citizens.

Flavours of the World 

One of the highlights of the day was the wide range of food and beverage booths, all served free of charge. Families tasted authentic flavours from around the world — mango sticky rice from Thailand, Vietnamese spring rolls, Japanese takoyaki, Korean fried chicken, Mexican tacos, Frozt popsicles and Passio drinks.  Parents and children enjoyed moving from booth to booth, discovering how culture can be shared through food. The variety of flavours reflected the diversity of our community and showed how harmony can begin with something as simple as sharing a meal.

Flavours of the world, all in one place

Exploring New Ways of Learning

At Anne Hill International School, we believe education is most meaningful when learning happens through play and discovery. During the April Open Day, children had the chance to join a variety of activities. Booths featured STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) experiments, art and craft, football, dancing, and chess, each led by trusted extra-curricular partners who guided children with care and enthusiasm. With this variety of activities, parents were able to watch their children try out new skills and discover fresh interests.

A huge thank you to MindXNuviChess PlusFox Football, and Bee Star for their incredible support. Their contributions helped make World Harmony such a meaningful and fulfilling experience.

Two learners practicing calm focus with every move

Children discovering how to focus, move, and have fun with the TikTok Dance Challenge 

Our coach from FOX Academy sharing football tips with a participant 

Creative Expressions of World Harmony 

Following the theme, children joined activities that reflected unity and world harmony. One of the most popular activities was the ‘Unity in Diversity’ flag coloring board. This was where participants painted flags from around the world. It encouraged children to express multicultural perspectives and reinforced the idea that at AHI, every country is valued as part of one global community.

Another highlight was the lively ‘Golden Bell’ pop quiz, which challenged learners in a spirit of friendly competition. Questions such as ‘Which country is home to the pandas?’ and ‘Which country is shaped like a highheeled boot?’ sparked curiosity and laughter while teaching fun facts about different nations.

Together, these activities showed how world harmony can be celebrated in creative and accessible ways. They reminded families that learning about world cultures builds respect, curiosity, and a sense of belonging.

Student participating in the flag painting activity 

Students joining in the “Golden Bell” quiz

Gaining insights about AHI Academic & School Life

Throughout the morning, families were also welcomed by Mr. Sean O’Maonaigh, Head of School, and the Academic Leadership Team.

Following this warm welcome, we hosted curriculum workshops where our teachers shared about our curriculum. Besides sharing key information about subjects like Mathematics, English, and Science, our teachers also highlighted how the International Primary Curriculum is being integrated into teaching and learning. By opening our classrooms to families, we ensure they gain a clear understanding of what and how their children are learning the AHI way.

Head of School Mr. Sean connecting with families, sharing insights on learning at Anne Hill

Participants listening attentively during the curriculum workshop

 Alongside the workshops and presentations, parents also enjoyed guided campus tours and admissions consultations. These activities gave them a closer look at how Anne Hill International School nurtures learners in a supportive and diverse environment. Conversations with staff and current families highlighted the school’s commitment to cultivating a community. This is what we aim to make every child feel valued and inspired to explore their potential.

Parents chatting with our admissions team, discovering how Anne Hill supports every child’s journey

 

A Living Example of Diversity and Harmony

World Harmony Day at Anne Hill International School was more than just an Open Day. It was a chance for families to come together, share food, enjoy activities, and celebrate the cultures that make our community special. Children laughed, played, and discovered new ideas, while parents saw how diversity can enrich everyday learning.

The event showed that Anne Hill International School is not only a place where children study but also a home where they grow with care and respect. By learning about different cultures and values, our learners are encouraged to be curious, kind, and confident. They are guided to become global citizens who understand and appreciate the world around them.

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.

 

 

International Day 2026 at AHI – A Celebration of Cultures and Community

On 3 April 2026, Anne Hill International School (AHI) Primary Campus hosted a vibrant festival of colours, music and traditions as we celebrated International Day. This annual event is one of the most anticipated highlights of our school calendar, bringing together students, parents and teachers to celebrate. With more than 30 nationalities represented, International Day 2026 offered a joyful opportunity to learn, share and connect through culture. 

 

Global Citizenship Through International Day 

At AHI, International Day is more than a celebration. It complements our curriculum on global citizenship and intercultural learning by encouraging students to respect diverse perspectives, communicate across cultures, and engage with global challenges. Through this experience, they develop intercultural awareness and grow into compassionate, well informed global citizens. They also learn to understand the connections between cultures and environments.

 

The Country Parade: A Showcase of Diversity 

International Day 2026 at Anne Hill International School began with the lively Country Parade, a highlight that filled the campus with pride and excitement. Our AHI students carried their flags high, representing more than thirty nationalities across our diverse school community. In addition, one or two students from each country wore traditional costumes, creating a colourful display that celebrated cultural identity and belonging.

As the MC announced, “Watch as our students represent nations from all corners of the globe in their stunning traditional costumes,” the audience responded with smiles and applause. Moreover, parents, teachers, and students enjoyed the Country Parade together, applauding warmly as each flag was raised. Every performance and costume told its own cultural story. They reflected the global diversity and warmth that make Anne Hill International School’s community truly special.

Sharing her feelings about the day, one parent expressed:

“The best part is seeing the energy of the cultural performances, the pride in the Country Parade, and the creativity within the booths. It’s a beautiful showcase of what happens when our parents and the school collaborate to create something truly magical for the children.”

 

 

An Australian student proudly holding her flag during the Country Parade 

Two young Japanese students dressed in their traditional outfits 

Highlights from the Stage 

Following the Country Parade, the stage at Anne Hill International School came alive with cultural performances that celebrated our diverse school community. Families and students worked together to share traditions, creating a truly international atmosphere. Moreover, the variety of performances reflected the global diversity of our learners and the pride they take in their heritage.

There were many kinds of performances, ranging from Korean dance and Taekwondo to lively Indian rhythms, heartfelt Russian singing, and a graceful Indonesian dance. In addition, Vietnam stood out with the famous bamboo dance. The steady beat of the bamboo and the careful steps of the dancers drew loud applause. This performance showcased teamwork, tradition, and joy, quickly becoming one of the highlights of the celebration.

Japan followed with an energetic performance that combined movement and music. Both parents and students danced together, filling the stage with excitement and laughter. As a result, the atmosphere was lively, and many in the audience captured the moment on their phones to remember how the performance brought everyone together.

Each performance added something unique, demonstrating the creativity and pride of our learners and families. Taken together, they reflected the cultural richness of our global school community and the spirit of celebration that makes International Day at Anne Hill International School so meaningful. 

 

Vietnamese parents sharing traditional songs and dance together on stage 

 

Japanese mothers and students are bringing energy and joy to the stage with their performance 

 

Global Booths and Cultural Discoveries 

Anne Hill International School was transformed into a colourful celebration of international culture as sixteen booths filled the campus with creativity and excitement. Each booth offered something unique, from authentic food and handmade crafts to traditional games and cultural storytelling. This allowed students, families, and the wider school community to explore, learn, and enjoy the richness of global diversity in one joyful setting.

Countries represented included Vietnam, India, Korea, Japan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Indonesia, Russia, the USA, France, Germany, Singapore and Malaysia, Mexico, Kazakhstan, and Australia. Each booth contributed to a truly global celebration.

As one student joyfully shared, “I like all the booths because they are all so yummy!”—a simple yet heartfelt reflection that captured the excitement of the day.

 

The India booth showcased vivid colours and handmade decorations, reflecting the richness of Indian culture 

The Pad Thai from the Thailand booth was a hot favourite, showcasing flavour and tradition in every bite 

 

The USA booth offered refreshing lemonade, a simple treat to cool down during the celebration 

 

The Indonesia booth showcased traditional shadow puppetry, highlighting artistry and cultural heritage 

 

An Interactive Global Journey 

To make the experience more engaging, students carried their own International Day “passports” – special cards used to collect stamps at each booth. As they explored different countries and cultures, they completed their passports and later redeemed them for a special gift. This turned the day into a journey across countries and cultures.

Families joined in too, voting for their favourite booths through QR codes. This added an interactive and modern element to the celebration. These activities encouraged everyone to participate fully and created a sense of connection across generations.

 

 

A student almost completes their “passport”, one step closer to exchanging it for a special gift 

 

As the event ended, votes were carefully counted, and the AHI community gathered in anticipation of the results. Congratulations to this year’s winners: Korea Booth (1st Place), Indonesia Booth (2nd Place), Vietnam Booth (3rd Place), and Japan Booth (Most Loved Award). While not every booth received an award, each one stood out for its creativity, dedication, and the heartfelt effort invested by our families. This made the celebration even more meaningful.

A parent also shared their feelings about the celebration, saying: “It’s really nice seeing so many different traditions and cultures, the food is so special too.” 

 

The award ceremony united parents and students, celebrating creativity and diversity  

We extend our sincere thanks to all parents and families for your incredible effort, creativity, and enthusiasm. Your contributions brought cultures and traditions from around the world to life on campus. As they continue their journey, they will nurture curiosity, embrace diversity, and grow into global citizens in the future.

 

Learn More About AHI News  

Stay connected with the latest stories and updates from Anne Hill International School.  

Visit our AHI News section  to explore upcoming initiatives, discover exciting school events, and engage with meaningful community projects.  

Join us today and be part of the journey! 

Introducing BatOnRoute Safe: Enhancing School Bus Safety and Communication

At Anne Hill International School (AHI), the safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority. Every decision reflects our commitment to creating a secure, supportive environment for the whole community. To build on this commitment, we are introducing BatOnRoute Safe, a new school bus management app that will make journeys safer and communication smoother for families who use our bus service. 

What Is BatOnRoute Safe? 

BatOnRoute Safe is a mobile application created specifically for schools to help parents track bus routes in real time, receive timely updates, and securely authorise designated persons for pickups. These features keep families connected and informed throughout their child’s daily journey to and from school. In addition, they reinforce clear and reliable communication between home and school. By bringing together practical technology and care, BatOnRoute Safe gives parents greater peace of mind and makes school transport safer and more reliable. 

Key Features for Parents  

BatOnRoute Safe offers a range of practical tools designed to make school transport safer and easier for families. Parents can track the school bus route in real time and view estimated departure and arrival times, helping them plan pickup and drop-off schedules with confidence. The app also provides instant notifications and updates from the bus team, ensuring that families are always informed of any changes or important messages. In addition, parents can report student absences directly through the app, streamlining communication with the school. For added securityBatOnRoute Safe includes a feature that allows parents to authorise designated persons to collect their child, giving families peace of mind that pickups are handled safely and reliably. 

 

 Partnering for safer journeys: AHI and BatOnRoute Safe 

 

Implementation Timeline 

To make sure the launch of BatOnRoute Safe is smooth and effective, the rollout will happen in two phases. This gradual approach lets us test the system carefully, gather feedback, and build confidence among families before it becomes part of daily school life.

The first phase will take place from March to April 2026. During this time, the app will be piloted on selective buses. This stage helps us refine operational procedures and make sure everything works smoothly.

Once the pilot is complete, we will move into the second phase. In this stage, BatOnRoute Safe will be gradually introduced across all school buses. Families will have the chance to get familiar with the app, ask questions, and share feedback. By the time the next academic year begins, the system will be fully adopted. As a result, every student will benefit from safer journeys and clearer communication between home and school.

The AHI School Bus where student safety always comes first 

As this project moves forward, we will continue to share updates with parents in a timely manner. Detailed instructions on how to use the application will be provided at each stage, making the transition smooth and straightforward. This journey is not just about technology, but about building stronger connections between families and the school. With BatOnRoute Safe, we look forward to creating an even safer and more connected transportation experience for our students and their families. 

 

Learn More About AHI News 

Stay connected with the latest stories and updates from Anne Hill International School.  

Visit our AHI News section to explore upcoming initiatives, discover exciting school events, and engage with meaningful community projects.  

Join us today and be part of the journey! 

AHI Roadshow 2026 Recap – Joyful Easter Moments & Community Spirit

On 4th April, Anne Hill International School (AHI) hosted the Easter Fun Roadshow at Estella Place mall in Ho Chi Minh City. The event welcomed more than 300 families and created a joyful space where children, parents and the wider community came together. It was a chance to celebrate Easter through play, creativity and cultural exchange. The Roadshow, one of the most anticipated family events of the year, offered a mix of performances, workshops and interactive experiences. In addition, the programme featured Zumba sessions and traditional dances by Indonesian and Korean students, showing the diversity and energy of the AHI community.

Performances That Captured the Crowd

The Easter Fun Roadshow at Estella Place was a true celebration of community spirit and joyful learning. The Zumba session became the highlight, with lively music filling the mall and children dancing with enthusiasm. Parents joined in as well, creating a heartwarming scene of families moving together and sharing laughter.

Zumba instructors brought the energy to the stage, leading the crowd in a joyful dance session 

Kids enjoying the rhythm and movement at the Zumba session 

Our Anne Hill International School students proudly performed traditional dances from Indonesia and Korea, showcasing both their cultural heritage and their talent. Their performances were graceful and engaging, and the audience responded warmly by clapping along and showing appreciation for the creativity on stage.

The excitement grew with a Taekwondo demonstration that impressed the crowd with its power and precision. A TikTok dance performance added a modern spark, drawing children to copy the moves while parents encouraged them from the sidelines. These moments transformed the shopping centre into a vibrant hub of family fun, where every smile and cheer added to the celebration.

A graceful performance by Korean dancers in traditional costume, bringing culture to life 

A young Taekwondo student demonstrates strength with a powerful board-breaking punch 

TikTok Dancers sharing the joy of movement with children 

A Day of Family Fun and Learning

The Roadshow was designed to welcome every age group, making sure preschoolers, primary and secondary students all found something to enjoy. Children took part in hands-on activities including clay modelling, colouring, Jesmonite crafts, bracelet making, face painting, robotics play and interactive Science Talk sessions. Each activity gave them the chance to explore, create and learn in ways that felt exciting and accessible.

A moment of concentration as a child blends Jesmonite to begin their creation 

Two children concentrating as they carefully create their bracelets 

Young artists concentrating on their creations during the drawing activity 

A moment of concentration and fun as a boy plays with his remote robotic car 

While their children enjoyed the activities, parents had meaningful opportunities to connect with our admissions team. These conversations gave them deeper insight into how Anne Hill International School nurtures growth beyond the classroom. They also added a thoughtful dimension to the day, showing how fun and learning can go hand in hand.

Our admission officer patiently answering questions and clearing doubts 

The claw machine became a favourite attraction. Children lined up eagerly to test their luck and win plush toys and prizes. Mascots such as Bumblebee and the Easter Rabbit wandered through the mall, greeting families, posing for photos and sharing smiles that lit up the crowd. Meanwhile, science talks, pop quizzes and bingo games kept the atmosphere lively, giving families plenty of reasons to stay engaged. Frotz ice cream and Nuvi milk were also available, redeemable with vouchers given to kids who joined any activity. Parents and children moved easily from one activity to the next. The sound of laughter and cheers carried through Estella Place, making the whole space feel festive and fun.

AHI students having fun while testing their skills at the claw machine 

A joyful moment as the Bumblebee mascot connects with kids during the event 

Reflections from Families and Organisers 

What truly stood out was the sense of connection that the Roadshow created. As our Senior Event Executive at Anne Hill International School, Ms. Ngan reflected:

“The highlight was seeing incredible engagement from both children and parents. From TikTok dances to the claw machine, every activity created joyful connections. Student performances were especially meaningful. They showcased our diverse community and the strong bond between Anne Hill and its families. It was heartwarming to see everyone come together in such a lively, meaningful way.”

Parents also shared their appreciation, noting how much the event meant to their families. One parent expressed: 

“I think it was very well planned, with many different activities for my child to enjoy. It was wonderful to see my child so engaged and happy throughout the day.”

Together, these reflections show what Anne Hill is truly about: joyful learning, meaningful family connections, and a community that celebrates every moment together.

 

Thank You to Our Partners 

We would like to thank all our partners — Nuvi, Global Art, Mee and More, MindX, Zumba and Click K — for their support in making the Easter Fun Roadshow 2026 possible. Their contributions made a real impact and helped bring the event to life.

Most importantly, we want to thank all the families who joined us. Your smiles, energy, and participation are what made the day truly memorable.

 

What is next -World Harmony Day 

The celebrations do not stop here. We invite you to join us at our upcoming Open Day – World Harmony Day. It will be a time when cultures, communities and families come together in joy and harmony.

The event will take place on 18 April 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 in the morning, at our Primary Campus, 31 Giang Van Minh, An Khanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. 

You can register now through our Open Day Registration link. 

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

How Montessori Education Nurtures Independence at Anne Hill International School  

At Anne Hill International School (AHI), we see every child as naturally curious and full of potential. Our Preschool embraces the Montessori approach, a philosophy that places children at the centre of their learning. With hands-on experiences and the freedom to explore at their own pace, children grow into confident learners who find joy in discovery. 

What is Montessori? 

The Montessori approach, developed by Dr Maria Montessori in the early 1900s, has shaped education across the globe for more than a century. At its core, Montessori nurtures independence and helps children grow into confident learners by encouraging them to explore at their own pace. Rather than being directed step by step, children are guided to make choices, practise skills, and discover knowledge in ways that feel meaningful to them. 

In a Montessori classroom, learning is designed to be full of joy and purposeful. Activities are carefully prepared to spark curiosity and allow children to take ownership of their progress. Teachers act as supportive guides, creating an environment where every child can experience the joy in learning and develop the resilience and problem-solving skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. 

As Dr Montessori once saidThe goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.” (Source: Strodemontessori) 

Montessori in Practice at Anne Hill International School 

At Anne Hill International School, Montessori is part of everyday life. Children are encouraged to choose activities that capture their interest, from threading beads, sweeping, to exploring materials that introduce shapes, colours, numbers, and sounds. Even simple routines, like greeting one another or tidying up, become opportunities to practise respect and responsibility. These daily experiences help children grow in independence, build focus, and enjoy learning through play and exploration.  

Montessori is a signature element of the AHI Early Years experience, emphasising self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and purposeful exploration. Children engage in five key areas of learning that form the foundation of their growth: Practical Life, where they build independence through everyday tasks; Sensorial, which sharpens their senses and awareness; Language, supporting communication and literacy; Mathematics, encouraging logical thinking and problem-solving; and Culture, which broadens their understanding of the world around them. 

Through carefully designed materials and activities, children develop independence, concentration, coordination, and a sense of order. The built-in “control of error” within Montessori materials encourages children to reflect on and self-correct their learning, building confidence and autonomy. This approach also lays strong foundations for future subject learning, including Mathematics, Science, and the Humanities. 

Two curious learners discovering the world through touch, using sand play to explore texture and build sensory awareness. 

Classroom activity: practicing with chopsticks to pick up small balls, strengthening fine motor skills and focus 

Our Teacher’s Perspective on Montessori Education 

Ms. Sherley, one of our dedicated Montessori teachers, has been part of AHI for over five years. With a background in Education and Montessori training, she brings both knowledge and warmth to her classroom. She shares: 

“My role as a Montessori teacher is to guide, prepare the environment, and offer lessons that match each child’s readiness. What I love most about teaching Montessori is watching each child explore and master their skills. Respect for others and independence are at the heart of every activity.” 

Step inside our classrooms and discover how Montessori shapes everyday learning. Watch the video below to hear directly from Ms. Sherley and see how Montessori learning comes alive in our classrooms. 

Montessori Meets the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) 

At Anne Hill International School, Montessori is thoughtfully complemented by the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC). Both approaches share a commitment to holistic development. Montessori nurtures independence and responsibility, while IEYC emphasises exploration, discovery, and respect for diversity. Together, they create a balanced learning environment that supports the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally. 

The IEYC forms the foundation of our preschool programme. It is a research-based international framework designed specifically for children aged 2–5, aligning with global best practices in early childhood education. 

Learning is organised around engaging thematic units that capture children’s interests and imagination. Through a play-based and enquiry-led approach, children develop across key areas including personal, social, emotional, and cognitive growth. The IEYC ensures that learning is both meaningful and developmentally appropriate, supporting children as they build knowledge, skills, and understanding in a holistic way. 

By combining Montessori with the IEYC, Anne Hill International School offers children the best of both worlds: the freedom to become confident learners through self-directed exploration, and the structure of a globally recognised curriculum that nurtures curiosity and the joy in learning. 

Besides Montessori and IEYC, we also introduce Jolly Phonics and Numicon, helping them build strong foundations in literacy and numeracy. We also offer second languages such as Mandarin and Vietnamese, while outdoor learning and after-school activities (ASA) provide children plenty of opportunities to explore, play, and grow. 

Learn more about our Preschool curriculum.

Students playing with blocks to explore shapes and structures 

Preparing Children for Life  

At Anne Hill International School, families can feel confident that their children are learning in a place that values curiosity, respect, and independence. The Montessori approach here is not just a method but part of everyday life. Through daily routines and activities, children learn to be capable and confident, preparing them not only for school but also for life beyond the classroom. 

This shows AHI’s commitment to caring for the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally. It provides a foundation that helps children thrive today and gives them skills they will carry into the future. 

Book a School Tour to discover how your child can grow in our caring community.