What makes a truly holistic school environment?

Today’s parents seek an education for their kids that fosters a holistic approach, allowing them to develop both academically and personally.

A holistic school environment is one that incorporates various elements to encourage children to become better communicators and be able to express themselves well with a strong sense of self, cultivating whole-person development.

Empowered by a holistic education, children grow up to become adults who can manage their lives better and have high emotional intelligence.

Besides developing them every aspect (psychologically, spiritually, socially, and academically), a holistic school environment must be engaging so students are able to learn more naturally.

A truly holistic school environment motivates students to engage through elements such as the Arts, Performance, Music, Sports, Community Relations, Debate and Leadership skills.

These sorts of activities help children become well-rounded individuals, providing them with several opportunities to build on existing talents and discover new passions.

Here are four international schools in Asia that offer a holistic school environment:

HOKKAIDO INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL – JAPAN

A popular destination, Hokkaido is known for its rich natural environment, its hot springs, beautiful ski slopes and snow-capped mountains.

Source: Hokkaido International School

This environment grants HIS students a clean and safe playground in which to explore life, learning and leadership.

There are a number of outdoor programmes that facilitate experiences in the natural environment, including annual overnight trips for all upper grades.

The private, co-educational day and boarding school offers an international education from the Reggio-inspired Early Years to the university prep Advanced Placement programme in high school.

HIS is committed to offering a holistic approach through learner-centred experiences, global engagement and outdoor education, which focuses attention on character development.

Students become effective communicators as they express themselves in purposeful ways through language, the arts and technology.

Throughout their education, students learn how to read and write critically, listen actively and to present and speak with confidence.

Students leave HIS as knowledgeable thinkers who show a genuine interest in the wider world. They leave as internationally-minded citizens who understand cultural differences and bear a deep respect for others.

JERUDONG INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL – BRUNEI

At this international school in Brunei, students are encouraged to become innovative and reflective thinkers during their studies.

Source: Jerudong International School

The small but wealthy nation of Brunei is located on the north coast of Borneo, Southeast Asia; home to some of the most biodiverse rainforests and beautiful beaches where students enjoy fresh air and plenty of sunshine.

Through a range of sports and activities, they learn how to become resilient as they’re encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and challenge themselves.

There’s also the Outdoors Discover Centre, a popular Forest School programme, and many field trips to nearby rainforests where they can get up close and personal to nature.

The state-of-the-art campus has an Arts Centre, Jungle Trail, Music Department with over 20 music specialist teaching rooms, a Drama Department, a large multi-purpose Sports Complex which includes a 25m swimming pool, and more.

Through its various activities, high quality academics and commitment to a holistic education, students here flourish and become well-rounded global citizens.

BANGKOK PATANA SCHOOL – THAILAND

This well-established British international school offers a broad and balanced curriculum alongside diverse opportunities where students can explore new ideas.

Source: Bangkok Patana School

The student body is diverse, so learners develop cultural awareness and sensitivity from an early age.

The small school environment allows students to feel confident and secure in a homely community, with collaborative learning spaces and purpose-built learning environments.

There are also state-of-the-art facilities such as a Science Centre, Arts Centre with two theatres and sound-proofed music rooms, numerous Drama studios with mirrors and sprung floors, and a Sports Complex with eight tennis courts and four full-size football pitches.

Extra-curricular activities include Swimming, Tennis, Gymnastics, Football and Dance and Drama – supporting all-round development alongside a rigorous academic programme where students become independent learners.

There are also several events for students to get involved in – such the Christmas Concert, International Day, Tiger Spirit Day and the annual Fun Day.

Through the many engaging activities and opportunities available here, students grow up to be well-adjusted and confident adults ready for the transition into university life.

DWIGHT SCHOOL SEOUL – KOREA

An international foreign school located in Seoul, the Digital Media City, Dwight is one of six campuses located all over the world.

Source: Dwight School Seoul

The IB World School is committed to educating the next generation of innovative global leaders through the academically rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum that fosters critical thinking and independent learning.

The close-knit, diverse community encourages students to become empowered individuals who can make a difference in the world.

There are also established mentorship programmes where older and younger students can connect and learn from each other.

Students hone their creativity at the Makerspace which is part hands-on workshop and part high-tech lab, where learners of all ages can explore design ideas and learn how to produce digital and material solutions.

They learn how to use the latest technology such as 3D printers, laser cutters and robotics equipment, preparing them well for university life and beyond.

Besides being up-to-date in the latest technologies, the school also offers Nature Education, an inquiry-based experience where students spend time in various parks in and around Seoul.

Through these experiences, students develop important skills such as leadership, communication, self-motivation and confidence.

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International

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