Book A School Tour

Tag: global

Nurturing Global Citizens at Anne Hill International School

Posted on by Gary Ly

At Anne Hill International School, global citizenship and intercultural learning are implemented across all aspects of school life, from the curriculum to community events and daily interactions. AHI students are encouraged to explore different perspectives to grow into open-minded, globally aware individuals who could thrive in an interconnected world.

 

What is Global Citizenship Education

 

According to UNESCO, global citizenship is:

“The understanding that we are connected not only to one country, but also to a wider global community, where individuals can contribute positively through their mindset and everyday actions” (UNESCO, 2026).

Global citizenship education equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values to engage with global challenges such as climate change, poverty, sustainability, and inequality. It helps learners become adaptable, collaborative, and critical thinkers in an increasingly global society.

For young people, it promotes respect, tolerance and appreciation of diversity. It also helps them understand how their actions impact others, while building confidence, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. These experiences support personal, educational and future professional growth. (Yassin, 2026).

As Parry (2025) highlights, international schools are uniquely positioned to develop global citizenship through multicultural environments that expose students to different perspectives from an early age, compared to a more local context.

Global Citizenship Education at the Heart of AHI’s Guiding Statements

As part of our guiding statements, we are committed to nurturing globally minded learners who are confident, compassionate, and culturally aware. By aligning our curriculum and learning experiences with UNESCO Sustainability Goal 4.7 on Education for Sustainable Development, we equip students to engage positively with the world.

These principles shape how we teach, connect, and grow as a diverse learning community. Through meaningful learning experiences, students develop the understanding, skills, and perspectives needed to thrive in an interconnected world.

At Anne Hill International School, global mindedness lies at the heart of everything we do.

 

From Global Educators to Globally Minded Learners

Coming from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, AHI educators play an important role in nurturing global citizenship education within the school community. Through real-life stories and cultural discussions drawn from their own international experiences, teachers inspire students to become more open-minded, adaptable, and globally aware. They also serve as authentic role models, demonstrating what it means to be true global citizens in today’s interconnected world.

Beyond the classroom, teachers also contribute to teaching the co-curricular activities, as well as organising school events, creating authentic opportunities for collaboration and cultural exchange.

Nurtured by an international faculty, students develop critical thinking, confident communication skills, and a deeper appreciation for diversity.

 

A Diverse Team of Global Educator at AHI (Data analysed in May 2026)

 

The connection between Global Citizenship Education with the ICA curriculum   

At AHI, global citizenship is embedded within the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). Through engaging thematic units, students explore subjects such as science, history, geography, humanities, and the arts from international perspectives.

The IPC encourages inquiry-based learning, allowing students to make meaningful connections across subjects while developing collaboration, communication, and intercultural understanding. They are also exposed to global issues, diverse cultures, and different perspectives through classroom learning, reading programmes, and co-curricular activities.

Students further apply their learning through engaging projects and exit points. For example, in the Year 1 Treasure Island Exit Point, students apply their geography knowledge through map reading, explore history through pirate stories, experience science through learning how earth, sun and the moon helps navigation, and build international understanding by learning about different ways of life and cultures around the world.

Year 1 students admiring the treasure they have discovered during the Exit Point “Treasure Island” (April 2026)

Learning in a Truly International Community

AHI students come from more than 30 different nationalities. AHI students do not need to travel overseas to begin experiencing the richness of a multicultural world. Every classroom becomes a miniature version of the global community, where children grow up surrounded by diversity from their very first years of life.

From a very young age, AHI students naturally learn that people may look, sound, think, and live differently from themselves. They encounter different hair colours, skin tones, accents, beliefs, traditions, and perspectives as part of their everyday learning environment. These differences are not presented as something unusual, but simply as a natural reflection of the world we live in.

Beyond academic learning, students at AHI are encouraged to cultivate kindness, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards the wider world. Even at a young age, they begin to understand that the world is vast, interconnected, and filled with opportunities for them to make a positive difference.

Our Students Come from All Around the World

 

Bringing Global Learning to Life  

Each academic year, Anne Hill International School organises around 30 events that give students meaningful opportunities to explore different cultures. Signature events such as International Day promote intercultural learning through cultural booths, performances, collaborative activities, and shared celebrations.

Beyond the classroom, students participate in assemblies, World Book Day, and cultural celebrations such as Diwali, Songkran, and Tết. These experiences spark curiosity, encourage active participation, and deepen students’ appreciation of different cultures and traditions.

Students also take part in events that celebrate diversity and inclusion. During Anti-Bullying Week, they join activities such as Odd Socks Day and Old Shoes Day. By wearing fun, mismatched socks and shoes, students learn that differences should be valued and respected. These activities encourage kindness, individuality, and the confidence to stand up against bullying.

Our international mums and dads also help nurture globally minded learners through language and cultural sharing. On International Mother Language Day, parents introduced nine different languages through interactive activities and cultural experiences. Their contributions helped students appreciate linguistic diversity and gain a deeper understanding of the multilingual world around them.

Students performing during Tet Celebration 

Our student showcasing his socks 

A parent teaching how to count in Malay using UNO cards

Through intercultural learning, diverse educational experience, and strong partnerships between educators, families and the wider school community, AHI students are guided to become respectful, adaptable and socially responsible global citizens.

 

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


References:

Parry, G. (2025b, March 12). Breaking Down Barriers: How international schools can Promote true Global Citizenship. Global Services in Education. https://www.gsineducation.com/blog/breaking-down-barriers-how-international-schools-can-promote-true-global-citizenship

 

What you need to know about global citizenship education. (2026c, February 12). https://www.unesco.org/en/global-citizenship-peace-education/need-know

 

Yassin, F. (2026, May 15). What is global citizenship for young people? thewaveclinic.com. https://thewaveclinic.com/blog/what-is-global-citizenship/

 

How Assemblies at AHI Help Promote Intercultural Learning

Posted on by Gary Ly

 

At Anne Hill International School (AHI), assemblies are where our students come together to celebrate their learning and listen to news and updates. They also provide opportunities to appreciate the community, celebrate achievements, and engage in discussions around meaningful topics. These experiences go beyond academics, helping to educate our students to be respectful, responsible and creative learners. Furthermore, AHI assemblies nurture future global citizens who understand and appreciate diversity.  

Embracing AHI Values

Assemblies play an important role in reinforcing the AHI values of empathy, respect, humility, ethics, resilience, communication, adaptability, collaboration, and critical thinking. These values shape our student’s character and guide them towards becoming global citizens. By practising these values in real situations, students learn to view the world from a broader perspective, which strengthens intercultural learning and helps them connect meaningfully with diverse cultures. 

Assemblies such as the Anne Hill Values Assembly, United Nations Day Assembly, and World Kindness Day Assembly provide opportunities for students to practise these values. The United Nations Day Assembly introduces students to the principles recognised internationally, encouraging them to become adaptable communicators across cultures. The World Kindness Day Assembly highlights empathy and respect, encouraging students to practise kindness in their daily lives. As a student‑led event, it demonstrates resilience and collaboration, showing how students take ownership of their learning.  

Together, these assemblies provide a powerful platform for intercultural learning and the development of global citizenship, while embracing the AHI values that guide our students every day. 

Teachers introducing the member states of the United Nations (UN) to students during the UN Day assembly 

Students introducing the meaning behind World Kindness Day Assembly 

Celebrating Cultural Diversity 

Understanding and respecting different cultures is a key foundation of global education at Anne Hill International School. By celebrating festivals in assemblies, students discover traditions from around the world and gain opportunities for intercultural learning. Assemblies such as the Mid‑Autumn Festival, St Patrick’s Day, Songkran, Diwali, and Vietnamese Teachers’ Day introduce practices from different cultures and highlight values such as respect and gratitude. These occasions allow students to see, experience, and learn from the customs of others, building their knowledge and appreciation of diversity. 

Students performing in traditional outfits that represent their own cultures during the Mid‑Autumn Assembly 

Students performing a festive dance during the St Patrick’s Day assembly 

Students sharing what Diwali means during the Diwali Assembly  

With more than thirty nationalities represented at AHI, diversity is reflected in every assembly. Experiencing festivals across cultures helps students develop empathy and respect as they compare different practices and values. This cultural exchange encourages them to recognise both differences and common ground, fostering a broader perspective and a global mindset. Through these assemblies, students learn that diversity strengthens community and enriches learning, preparing them to become global citizens who embrace intercultural understanding. 

 

Fostering Creativity and Joy in Learning  

For our students, assemblies are moments where imagination and learning come together in fun ways. They give children the chance to step outside the classroom and try new things. On World Book Day, students and teachers dressed up as their favourite book characters, turning the assembly into a colourful celebration of stories. This playful activity encouraged a love for reading and showed that learning can be exciting and enjoyable. 

Our Public Speaking Competition gave students another way to shine. Our students shared poems with their classmates and parents. Some chose well‑known pieces, while others wrote their own. Standing on stage gave them a chance to practice speaking clearly and confidently. Assemblies like this help students express themselves both visually and verbally, helping them build confidence, creativity, and communication skills. By mixing fun with learning, students become more curious and find joy in their studies. These experiences help them grow into caring learners who value diversity and intercultural understanding, preparing them to take their place as global citizens.  

Our winners of the Best Costume Award during the World Book Day assembly 

A student sharing a poem about firefighters during an assembly 

Parents as Partners 

At Anne Hill International School, assemblies are enriched by the involvement of families. Parents are always invited to attend, encourage their children, and witness their performances during assemblies. Their presence strengthens the bond between home and school, giving children confidence and allowing parents to be present in their learning journey. 

Parents also support the organising of assemblies such as Sakura Hanami assembly, Diwali assembly and St. Patrick’s Day assembly. These contributions help bring traditions and perspectives that broaden students’ understanding of diversity. 

Whether it is attending, encouraging, or supporting, parents are true partners in our assemblies, helping us build meaningful experiences that connect home and school. 

Parents capturing their children’s dance during the St. Patrick’s Day Assembly 

Japanese mothers dancing with their children at Sakura Hanami Assembly 

Parents gathering for a thank‑you breakfast, recognising their support in assemblies and school events throughout the year 

Each assembly is a stepping stone, nurturing creativity and shaping students into global citizens. By carrying forward values of collaboration, diversity and responsibility, students learn that intercultural understanding is built daily through respect, empathy and community. 

 

Learn More About School Life at AHI  

Take a look at our Events Calendar and discover the activities we have planned.

World Harmony Day at AHI: Families Exploring Global Cultures

Posted on by Gary Ly

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 MindX, Nuvi, Chess Plus, Fox 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 high‑heeled 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

Posted on by Gary Ly

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!