2
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
1. Introduction
1.1
British International School Mission Statement
The British International School is a caring and multicultural community that enables all individuals
to realise their academic and personal potential in a dynamic and challenging learning environment
which values enquiry, perseverance and reflection. At the British International School we act with
integrity and treat one another with respect, learning together as responsible global citizens.
3
IBO Mission Statement
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
1.2
The International Baccalaureate Organization aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and
caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural
understanding and respect.
To this end the IBO works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop
challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.
These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and
lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.
The British International School Ho Chi Minh City has a strong and well-deserved
reputation locally and internationally. Students come from a wide range of countries
and cultures and bring with them a wealth of wisdom and experience. They are
energetic, articulate, motivated, confident, caring and eager to make their mark on
the world.
We are blessed with world-class facilities, set in the midst of a fascinating country in the
heart of Asia. Teachers are drawn from the best worldwide and the administrative and
support staff are dedicated professionals, keen to play their part. We are continuously
enhancing the technology used to support learning in the school with electronic
whiteboards and Wi-Fi to support all students in years 7-13. In such a context, there
can be no excuse for anything other than all-round excellence.
One of the great strengths of the British style of international education is that such
excellence involves all aspects of students’ moral, physical, emotional, aesthetic,
social and academic development focused on each individual’s personal best. Here
at the secondary campus this is achieved through superb teaching supported and complemented by the guidance of
the Form Tutors and Heads of Year. Together with the Careers and University Guidance service and School Counsellor,
these people form the Welfare & Guidance Team. Form tutors are always the first point of contact for parents and a
source of much information and advice on school matters.
Maintaining good relationships with parents is highly valued and the Parent Teacher Group (PTG) is an extremely
important part of that. As a parent of three boys myself, now well-integrated BIS students, I can’t exaggerate the role
the PTG played in welcoming my family and helping us settle on arrival in 2010. Whether it was a phone call to offer
to show us the way to the supermarket, an invitation to the marvellous PTG Wine and Cheese evening, or advice on
where to buy football boots, the friendly assistance was invaluable. The essential but sometimes unwritten roles
of the PTG include helping people settle when they move to a new and somewhat bewildering city, creating a real
community from a disparate group of parents, teachers and students, and providing a sense of security so that
students can quickly settle down to the important task of learning.
Extra-curricular activities are one of the defining features of the BIS experience and we are proud of the range on
offer. The extensive talents and skills of the teachers and their willingness to be involved in this central aspect of
school life are remarkable. There is a strong commitment to active service through many of the activities on offer as
well as through the Duke of Edinburgh International Award. Together these provide students with opportunities to
contribute both locally and wider afield, preparing them for a future as responsible leaders and citizens in a global
community.
Through these rich and varied experiences, the students embark on a journey to develop into resourceful, resilient,
reflective individuals, capable of deep reasoning and able to take responsibility for their own lives and play their part
in the rapidly changing world in which they live. Academic success remains an essential part of that journey and our
students regularly achieve extremely good examination results and secure places at some of the most prestigious
universities worldwide.
This handbook is designed to be a quick point of reference containing information on the routines which guide the
daily life of the school and the regular annual events that make up our heartbeat. You will also find details of key
personnel and their roles. A parent handbook can never be fully comprehensive, nor is it a static document. If there
is anything which you are unsure about, do not hesitate to come and talk to me or another member of the PTG or
Senior Leadership Team. Equally, if you have any suggestions for improvement, I’d be delighted to hear your views.
Richard Dyer
Head Teacher
Secondary
August 2013
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
1.3. Head Teacher’s Introduction
4
2. 2
Who’s
whowho
Who’s
Photographs and short biographies of all teachers appear on the school website.
Photographs and short biographies of all teachers appear on the school website.
2.1The Secondary Senior Leadership Team
2.1 The Secondary Senior Leadership Team
Mr. Richard Dyer
Head Teacher
Mr. Peter Gillmore
Deputy Head Teacher
Ms. Mary Morrison
Assistant Head
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
5
Mrs. Karen Eastwood
Deputy Head Teacher
9
Mr. Ben Turner
Assistant Head
2.2
Welfare & Guidance Team
Head of Year 7
Head of Year 8
Head of Year 9
Head of Year 10
Head of Year 11
Mrs. Anne-Marie
Astley
Mr. Robert
Brownrigg
Mr. Ben Wall
Ms. Deborah
Meacham
Mr. Rob Bergin
Head of Sixth Form
(12 & 13)
Ms. Lauren
Binnington
Career & University
Guidance
Career & University
Guidance Assistant
Counsellor
Mr. Aidan Crowley
Mrs. Lieve Perera
Mrs. Buick Hamblin
Assistant Head of
Sixth Form
Ms. Leila Holmyard
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
2.2.1 Heads of Year
Your child’s Form Tutor is the first point of contact regarding matters that are not directly connected with a particular
subject.
Students are grouped into Forms of around 24 students, overseen by a Form Tutor. Students meet their Form Tutor
each morning for 20 minutes. The Form Tutor is responsible for the general welfare and guidance of the students
in the Form, checking absence notes, ensuring homework is properly recorded and done, monitoring academic
progress, celebrating success and so on.
The Forms are grouped into Years (7-13) overseen by a Head of Year. The Years are also grouped into school sections:
•Lower Secondary (Years 7 & 8)
•Middle Secondary (Years 9, 10, 11)
•Sixth Form (Years 12 & 13)
The name “Sixth Form” is a traditional English term that has its origins in the time when the years of compulsory
secondary education were numbered 1-5, with the sixth and seventh years being the phase of post-compulsory
education. The numbering system now starts in primary school at age 4 and continues through to Year 13. Years 12
and 13 are still traditionally referred to as the Sixth Form.
Together with the Careers and University Guidance Counsellor, Mr. Aidan Crowley, the School Counsellor, Mrs. Buick
Hamblin, these Form Tutors and Heads of Year make up the Welfare and Guidance Team.
Anne-Marie
Astley
Robert
Brownrigg
Ben Wall
Rob Bergin
Deborah
Meacham
Lauren
Binnington
Leila
Holmyard
Buick
Hamblin
Aidan
Crowley
6
2.2.2 Form tutors for 2013-14
Lower Secondary
Middle Secondary
Sixth Form
Form
Form Tutor
Form
Form Tutor
Form
Form Tutor
7B
Ms Sheppard
9B
Mr Goulding/Mrs Wilson
12/13B
Mr Sherry
7I
Mrs Hadley
9I
Mr McGraw
12/13I
Mr Luke
7S
Mrs Cullen
9S
Ms Gillespie
12/13S
Mrs Deleporte
7V
Ms Liu
9V
Mr Carter
12/13V
Mrs Dolan
7N
Mr Church
9N
Mr Durok
12/13N
Mr English
7H
Ms James
9H
Mrs O'Neill
12/13H
Mr Shah
7C
Ms Tingey
10B
Miss Horne
12/13C
Mr Pollicutt
8B
Ms Tiemann
10I
Miss Sinker
12/13M
Mr Gamwell
8I
Mr Durrant
10S
Mr Bao
12/13T
Mr Dace
8S
Mr Moore
10V
Mr Willis
12/13A
Mr Perera
8V
Mr Marsh/
Mrs Lanyon-Jones
10N
Mr Alexander
12/13O
Miss Sargent
8N
Mrs Dennis
11B
Ms Easter
12/13D
Miss Morley
8H
Ms Crawley
11I
Ms Bellaoui
11S
Mr Essery
11V
Mr York-Smith
11N
Mr Cullen
2.3 Departments
The curriculum leadership in the school is organised into departments. Each school subject area has a Head of Department.
Most queries that parents have are handled by their children’s subject teachers. Occasionally, however, for serious or significant
concerns, the subject Head of Department may be involved. See also Complaints in Section 4.13.
7
Issues not resolved at the HoD level are referred to Karen Eastwood, Deputy Head Teacher.
Photographs and short biographical notes of teachers are organised into departments on the school website.
Karen Eastwood – Deputy Head Teacher - Curriculum
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Heads of Department
English & ESL
David Pollicutt
Assistant Head of English
Abigail Griffiths
Mathematics
Steven Roberts
Assistant Head of Mathematics
Ben Sillitoe
Science
Matthew York-Smith
Head of Biology
Emma Horne
Head of Chemistry
Ciara Gillespie
Head of Physics
Sheema Dolan
Modern Foreign Languages
Jim Dace
Head of Chinese
Xie Hao
Information & Communication Technology
Claire Easter
Director of Sport (BIS), Physical Education (AP2), Trips and Activities (AP2)
Phil Drake
Assistant Head of PE
Gary Willis
Art
Richard Harper
Business Studies & Economics
Deirbhle O'Neill
Design & Technology
Jon Ball
Drama
Catherine Sargent
Geography
Mark Hadley
History
Helena Wilson
Music
Sarah James
Psychology
Lindsay Mould
Vietnamese
Mai Le
Learning Support
Stewart Blake
IB Coordinator
Richard Arch
Head of Academic English
Damian Ballantine
Extended Essay Coordinator
Sanjay Perera
CAS & Community Coordinator
Daphnée Deleporte
Learning Technology Coordinator (BIS)
Adam Astley
Achievement Data Coordinator
Andy Luke
Examinations Officer (IGCSE)
Ian Wilson
International Award Leader
Alex Essery
Model United Nations
Dan Gamwell
Instrumental teaching / ABRSM
Ian Alexander
Eco Schools
Graham Carter
2.5 Key People in the Office
Key People
2.5.1 Reception2.5
- Ground
Floor in the Office
Mrs. Susan Wilson supervises the secondary Reception. She is a key point of contact for
2.5.1 and
Reception
- Ground
Floor
parents and students
deals with
day to day
lost property.
Mrs.
Wilson supervises the secondary Reception. She is a key point of contact for
Susan also deals
withSusan
admissions.
parents and students and deals with day to day lost property.
Susan also deals with admissions.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
2.4 Special Responsibilities
2.5.2Nurse – Ground Floor
Our Medical Centre
is staffed
Nurse Love
Grace Condes.
2.5.2
Nurse by
– Ground
Floor
Our Medical Centre is staffed by Nurse Love Grace Condes.
2.5.3 School2.5.3
Shop School
– Ground
Floor
Shop
– Ground Floor
8
Staffed by Ms. Bich
LambyNgoc,
the school
shopthe
sells
extra
items
uniform
a smalland
range
Staffed
Ms. Bich
Lam Ngoc,
school
shop
sellsofextra
itemsand
of uniform
a small
of stationery andrange
books.
of stationery and books.
2.5.4 Secondary Office - Mezzanine Floor
2.5.4 Secondary Office - Mezzanine Floor
Ms.Huong Do is the PA to the Head Teacher and the Office Manager. Ms. Huong can be
Ms. Huong Do
is the
to the Head Teacher and the Office Manager. Ms. Huong can be
contacted for appointments
with
thePAHead.
contacted for appointments with the Head.
Ms.Hanh Nguyen is the PA to the Deputy Heads. Ms. Hanh can be contacted for appointments
with the Deputy Ms.
Heads.
Hanh Nguyen is the PA to the Deputy Heads. Ms. Hanh is responsible for signing
out students who need to leave early during the day and signing in those who are late. She
can be contacted for appointments with the Deputy Heads.
Ms. Linh Tran is the Education Secretary. Ms. Linh is responsible for signing out students
who need to leave early during the day and signing in those who are late. Ms. Linh is the first
Linh
Tran is the
Education
Secretary.
Ms.
Linh
is the first point
of contact in the
point of contact Ms.
in the
Secondary
Office
and she
supports
the
management
of extracurricular
Secondary
Office and
supportswith
the management
of extracurricular activities. Linh will
activities. Linh will
help parents
andshe
students
any enquiries.
help parents and students with any enquiries.
Ms. Phuong Viet Nguyen is the Campus Facilities Manager. Ms. Phuong oversees the
maintenance and upkeep of the campus, supervises all events and is the first point of
Ms. Phuong Viet Nguyen is the Campus Facilities Manager. Ms. Phuong oversees the
contact for school
buses. and upkeep of the campus, supervises all events and is the first point of
maintenance
contact for school buses.
Ms. Van Nguyen is the Cashier who handles all cash payments to the campus and is the
administrator forMs.
school
trips. is the Cashier who handles all cash payments to the campus and is the
Van Nguyen
administrator for school trips.
Contact Details appear
page
44. on page 67.
Contact on
Details
appear
14
3. General School Routines & Information
3.1 The School Day
The school day is divided into periods, with 8 periods in the day.
Most lessons are double periods lasting 75 minutes.
Activities take place from 0630, at lunch time and after lessons. The after lessons activities take place from 1450-1550
and from 1555 to 1655. See the section on Activities for more detail.
2013-14
Tutorial & registration
P1
P2
Changeover
P3
P4
9
Break
P5
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
P6
Lunch
P7
P8
Changeover
Activities 1
Changeover
Activities 2
07:55
00:20
08:15
08:15
00:40
08:55
08:55
00:35
09:30
09:30
00:05
09:35
09:35
00:40
10:15
10:15
00:35
10:50
10:50
00:25
11:15
11:15
00:40
11:55
11:55
00:35
12:30
12:30
00:55
13:25
13:25
00:40
14:05
14:05
00:35
14:40
14:40
00:10
14:50
14:50
01:00
15:50
15:50
00:05
15:55
15:55
16:55
01:00
7
14
21
28
Fri
2
9
16
23
30
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
1
8
15
22
29
4
11
18
25
7
14
21
28
{42}
2
9
16
23
30
4
11
18
25
5
12
19
26
March 2014
3
10
17
24
31
3
10
17
24
31
5
12
19
26
6
13
20
27
June 2014
4
11
18
25
1
8
15
22
29
2
9
16
23
30
3
10
17
24
4
11
18
25
5
12
19
26
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
2
9
16
23
30
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
1
8
15
22
29
6
13
20
27
6
13
20
27
Fri
7
14
21
28
Fri
6
13
20
27
Fri
7
14
21
28
7
14
21
28
Sat
1
8
15
22
29
Sat
7
14
21
28
Sat
New staff induction
3
10
17
24
31
5
12
19
26
Public holidays
7
14
21
28
4
11
18
25
Sat
School holidays
6
13
20
27
Sat
1
8
15
22
Sat
3
10
17
24
December 2013
2
9
16
23
30
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
1
8
15
22
29
Fri
September 2013
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
Non-pupil days
5
12
19
26
May 2014
5
12
19
26
6
13
20
27
4
11
18
25
2
9
16
23
3
10
17
24
Fri
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
February 2014
7
14
21
28
2
9
16
23
30
6
13
20
27
1
8
15
22
29
5
12
19
26
3
10
17
24
4
11
18
25
Sat
Fri
3
10
17
24
31
Sat
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
November 2013
6
13
20
27
2
9
16
23
30
5
12
19
26
1
8
15
22
29
4
11
18
25
Fri
August 2013
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
[42]
2
9
16
23
30
1
8
15
22
29
Fri
4
11
18
25
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
3
10
17
24
31
6
13
20
27
7
14
21
28
7
14
21
28
4
11
18
25
6
13
20
27
Fri
1
8
15
22
29
2
9
16
23
30
July 2014
2
9
16
23
30
3
10
17
24
1
8
15
22
29
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
April 2014
7
14
21
28
3
10
17
24
31
6
13
20
27
2
9
16
23
30
5
12
19
26
Fri
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
January 2014
1
8
15
22
29
4
11
18
25
7
14
21
28
3
10
17
24
31
6
13
20
27
Fri
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
October 2013
BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, HO CHI MINH CITY
ACADEMIC YEAR 2013 - 2014 TERM DATES
5
12
19
26
Sat
5
12
19
26
Sat
4
11
18
25
Sat
5
12
19
26
Sat
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Total number of staff days: 188
Total number of pupil days: 180
Sub-total number of staff days: 52
Sub-total number of pupil days: 52
Term ends
School closed - Reunification Day/ Labour Day
Friday 27 June
Wednesday 30 April - Friday 2 May
Term 3
Monday 14 April - First pupil day
Sub-total number of staff days: 54
Sub-total number of pupil days: 51
Term ends
Friday 28 March
School closed (Tet holiday)
Tuesday 4 February - Non pupil day (staff day)
Monday 27 January - Monday 3 February
Non pupil days - (staff days)
Wednesday 8 January 2014 - First pupil day
Term 2
Monday 6 January 2014 - Tuesday 7 January 2014
Sub-total number of staff days: 82
Sub-total number of pupil days: 77
Term ends
Half term holiday
Wednesday 18 December
School closed - Vietnam National Day
Monday 21 October - Friday 25 October
Monday 2 September
Monday 26 August - First pupil day
Non pupil days - (staff days)
Friday 23 August - New pupil orientation
Monday 19 - Friday 23 August
Term 1
Thursday 15 - Friday 16 August - New staff Induction
NOTES
[42]
3.2 The School Year
10
3.3 Events calendar
3.3
Events calendar
Please note that the dates below were set in June 2013 and may be subject to change.
Please contact the school for
confirmation.
appear
BISbuzz
and2013
BISblog
Please
note thatConfirmed
the datesdates
below
wereinset
in June
andeach
mayweek.
be subject to change. Please contact the
school for confirmation. Confirmed dates appear in BISbuzz and BISblog each week.
September 2013
August
2013
Date
October 2013
04
05
06
09
Year 7 Information Evening
Year 8 – 11 Information Evening
Y12 Group 4 Project (Introduction)
Activities Start
12
12.10 – 12.30
08.15 – 10.00
15.00 – 17.00
All day
All day
20
21
Fire Evacuation Drill
PTG Meeting
Year 10 Dragons’ Den
Year 7 MIDYIS Tests
Y12 Group 4 Project
Moon Festival
PTG – Cheese & Wine
Cambridge Overseas Interview Deadline UCAS
ABRSM High Scorers Concert
23
24
25
27
Year 12 CEM IBE tests
Lockdown Drill
Year 9 Parent Options Evening
PTG Quiz
01.30 – 02.40
12.10 – 12.30
16.00 – 18.00
28 – 29
29
05 – 06
08
Vietnamese IB Trip
BBGV Run
(SAT Test External)
Year 11 Parents Options Evening
All day
10
11
11 – 13
Battle of the Bands
PTG Meeting
Year 11 Geography Trip
Oxford & Cambridge Deadline for Medicine
Dentistry & Veterinary UCAS
Year 9 Parent Teacher Student Conference
PTG Lost Property
Year 7 Settling – in Letter
International Day
Holiday
Drama Monologue Competition
16.00 – 18.00
12.30 – 13.30
Careers – USA EA/ED Deadline
(SAT Test External)
BIS Invitational Swim Gala
ABRSM Theory Exam
Drama Year 12 Studio Production
Senior UKMT (Maths competition)
All day
23
13
13&16
17
19
15
16
17
18
21 – 25
29
November 2013
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
11
26
30
02
03
Events
Year 12 Induction Day
New Pupil Orientation
START OF TERM
PTG – Welcome Coffee
Vietnam National Day
6th Form Information Evening
01
02 – 03
02
05
07
16
Time
09.00 14.45
13.30 – 15.00
07.45
08.15 – 09.00
18.30 – 19.30
18.30 – 19.30
18.30 – 19.30
09.30 – 10.50
19.00 – 21.00
19.00 – 21.00
18.30 – 20.00
19.00 – 21.00
08.15 – 10.00
All day
All day
18.30 – 20.00
18.00 – 19.00
07
Senior UKMT (Maths competition)
08
PTG Meeting
07 – 09
SEOMUN (Seoul Model United Nations)
07 – 10
Phuket 7s Football
11
Year 10 Geography Trip
All day
12
Year 13 Parent Teacher Student Conference
16.00 – 18.00
14 - 19
FOBISSEA Music Festival
15
Year 10 & 12 Short Report
15 – 16
UNIS Invitational Swim Meet
01
04
05
06
Activities Finish
Sports Day
IGCSE PE Moderation
PTG Meeting
06 – 08
07
07 – 08
10
Bangkok Feeding Frenzy Swim (TBC)
English IB Literature IOC’s
(SAT Test External)
PTG Lost Property
12.30 – 13.30
11 – 12
12
13
14
Winter Concert – All Day Rehearsal
Winter Concert
Year 8 English Dragons’ Den
Christmas Bazaar
All day
19.00 – 21.00
All day
09.00 – 14.00
16
House Drama Competition
Year 7 Short Report
END of TERM
28
18
19 Dec – 07
Jan
08
09
09 – 21
10
START of TERM
PTG Newcomers Coffee
Year 11 & 13 Mock Examinations
PTG Meeting
11
13 – 17
15
20
English IB Literature IOPs
TRIPS WEEK
Deadline for UCAS Application (except Art & Design)
Activities start
20 – 21
22 – 24
23
25 – 26
LAMDA Exams
FOBISSEA MUN
PTG Cheese & Wine
(SAT Test External)
25 – 04 Feb
Tet Holiday
13.00 – 21.00
08.00 – 08.30
16.00 – 18.00
All day
All day
12
Holiday
17
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
29
21 – 25
24
25 – 29
December 2013
16.00 – 18.00
Year 11 Parent Teacher Student Conference
Teacher’s Day
Drama Workshop
U15 FOBISSEA Games
Terry Fox Run
MFL Year 13 Written Assignment
Year 9 & 11 Options Final Deadline
Year 8 Parent Teacher Student Conference
Psychology Sleep Study
20
January 2014
08.15 – 10.00
All day
08.15 – 10.00
All day
19.00 – 21.00
February 2014
06
06 – 08
10
Intermediate UKMT
FOBISSEA Drama Festival
Year 12 English Graham Greene Trip
11
IB / IGCSE Performance Music Evening
Valentine’s Disco
PTG Meeting
D of E IA Year 10 & 12 Practice Expedition
Individual Student Photographs (TBC)
Year 7 Parent Teacher Student Conference
18.00 – 19.00
19.00 – 21.00
08.15
PTG Quiz
Prefect Training Day
MFL Year 13 IB Orals
SEAMC
Year 11 & 13 Full Report
Careers Mid – Year Reports to Colleges
ABRSM Theory Exam
16.00 – 18.00
All day
14
15 – 16
17 – 21
19
21
22
24 – 28
27 – 28
28
01
01 – 02
07
08
Entry Tests
09.00 – 12.00
08 – 09
11 – 12
(SAT Test External)
Year 11 & 13 Invitational Parent Teacher Student Conference
English B IB Individuals Orals
Spring Concert Full Day Rehearsal
12
Spring Concert – BEN THANH Theatre
18.30 – 20.30
13
Year 11 Mathematics Second Mock (TBC)
02.30 – 05.30
13 – 17
U13 FOBISSEA Games
14
PTG Meeting
17 – 21
MFL Year 11 IGCSE Orals
17
Morrisby Profiling (Year 10)
18
IGCSE PE Moderation
PTG Lost Property
ESL IGCSE Orals
Year 10 Parent Teacher Student Conference
March 2014
19
20
21 – 23
25 – 27
SAIMUN (Saigon Model United Nations)
Vietnamese Year 9 Trip
Year 9 & 11 Confirmation of IB/ IGCSE Options
Production
23
Activities Finish
24
UCAS Deadline for Art & Design
END of TERM
Year 7 Full Report / Year 8 Short Report / Year 9 Full Report
Holiday
21
28
March 29 -13 April
April 2014
All day
16.00 – 18.00
09.30 – 12.30
10
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
All day
16.00 – 18.00
SEAMC
Year 12 Parent Teacher Student Conference
Year 10 – 12 Swim Gala
House Talent Competition
06
13
All day
All day
14
19 – 22
21
START of TERM
Year 12 D of E IA Assessed Expedition
Activities start
21 – 25
22
Y10 Morrisby Feedback Interviews
Vietnamese Year 8 Trip
18
16.00 – 18.00
All day
08.15 – 10.00
All day
12.30 – 13.30
16.00 – 18.00
All day
19.00 – 21.00
All day
All day
26 – 27
28
29
30
30 – 2 May
02 – 04
03 – 04
01
02 – 11
06
07
Year 7 – 9 ISTA Drama Trip
(SAT Test External)
IB Exams
IGCSE Exams
Year 12 English Production
Admissions Tests
English IB Language & Literature IOC’s
Year 10 & 12 Drama Showcase
IB Art Exhibition
Y13 GRADUATION
Internal Exam Week
Year 9 Insight Tests
PTG Second Hand Sale
IGCSE Exams
Year 7 Full Report
BIS Aquathlon
07 – 08
11 – 20
10
11
(SAT Test External)
ABRSM Exams
Year 6 Parent Transition Meeting
House Song Competition
12 – 13
IB Induction for Y11
Year 11 PROM
PTG Quiz
PTG Meeting
ABRSM Theory Exam
Activities finish
KS 3 Drama Showcase
Year 10 & 12 Invitational Parent Teacher Student Conference
May 2014
05 – 23
08 – 09
17
20
22
24
26 – 30
June 2014
Year 10 D of E IA Assessed Expedition
Year 7 English Midsummer Night’s Dream Performances
Year 11 Lessons Finish
Year 11 Final Assembly
Junior UKMT
Careers Final Report to Colleges
Reunification Day/ Labour Day
13
14
15
16 – 17
19
20
23
24
26
27
28
Inter-house Dodgeball
Public Speaking Competition Final
Innovation Day
Prize Giving
END of TERM
Year 8 – 10 – 12 Full Report
End of KS (Year 9) Summative Report
Holiday
19
All day
18.00 – 20.00
09.00 – 12.00
All day
18.00 – 19.30
17.30 – 19.00
All day
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Year 13 Final Assembly
0900-1200
All day
All day
15.00 – 16.00
All day
19.00 – 22.00
16.00 – 18.00
08.15 – 10.00
18.00 – 20.00
16.00 – 18.00
15.00 – 17.00
All day
All day
13.00 – 14.30
11.30
14
3.4 Student Absences, Late Arrivals and Early Departures
3.4.1 Absences due to illness or injury
Please be vigilant in monitoring your child’s temperature during times of seasonal influenza outbreaks and keep them
at home if their temperature exceeds 37.5°C.
If your child is absent for three days or less, we expect to receive notification on return to school. This can be a
handwritten note in the school diary or an email.
For absences longer than three days, please contact the school on or before the fourth day by telephone or email.
Telephone
Note
Email –
–
–
Receptionist
Form Tutor
Form Tutor/Receptionist
See contact list in Section 10.
3.4.2 Other Absences
We expect students to attend school for the full school year and plan the curriculum and teaching with that in mind.
Unexpected absences, including early departure at the end of a term, are occasionally necessary, however, usually
on compassionate grounds. Please contact the Head of Year as appropriate to request permission for absence. Such
requests may be referred to the Head Teacher. In most circumstances, we cannot take responsibility for any effect on
progress or academic attainment that may occur as a result.
3.4.3 Arriving Late in the Day
Students arriving late to school should report to the Education Secretary in the Secondary Office. All late arrivals are
recorded.
3.4.4 Leaving Early in the Day
15
If a student needs to leave early due to a dental appointment or family need, they should bring in a signed note from
home. If no note is presented, we will phone home to check with parents. Students then sign out with the Education
Secretary in the Secondary Office, who will issue a slip to inform the guards that permission has been granted.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Students are not permitted to leave the campus independently during the school day.
3.5 Transport
3.5.1 Buses
We have school buses serving many districts. The buses are fitted with seat belts and all staff and students are required
to use these seat belts. There is an escort on each bus who has a mobile telephone in case of an emergency. If you
would like further details of the bus service please contact Ms. Phuong in the Secondary Office, School Reception or
Cashier. The bus service is not included in fees and there is a separate charge for this service. Availability of the school
bus service may be limited and is on a first come first served basis.
Morning pick-up: it is important to be ready when the bus arrives so that it can continue on its route without delay.
Afternoon drop-off: Parents must collect their child promptly; we do not supervise at drop-off points. If children are left
unsupervised then alternative arrangements will need to be made for transport.
3.5.2 Car drop-off and pick-up
Students who arrive by car can be dropped off and collected at Secondary Gates A or C, or at Gate C on the AP1 primary
campus.
Traffic outside school becomes congested at the beginning and the end of the school day. Extreme caution should be
exercised at all times.
Students are not allowed to walk across the road unless supervised during an evacuation. The footbridge must always
be used.
Dropping off in the morning
a) Approaching from Highway 1, moving towards AP1 – students alight at AP1 Gate C, enter the AP1 campus Gate C,
then use the footbridge to proceed directly to the AP2 campus.
b) Approaching from The Village / Xi / River Garden direction – drop by the AP2 Gate A.
c) Approaching from Quoc Huong – drop off AP2 Gate C.
Collecting at the end of the day
a) Approaching from Highway 1 moving towards AP1 – students will exit AP2 over the bridge and can be collected on
the opposite side of the road. You will need to go beyond AP1 if you wish to carry out a U-turn.
b) Approaching from The Village / River Garden direction – collect alongside the AP2 wall.
Students are welcome to cycle to school. We expect students who do so to wear a proper bike helmet and reserve the
right to withdraw permission to cycle from individuals who do not comply. The school provides secure bike racks but
students are advised to lock their own bikes and keep their helmets in their lockers.
3.5.4Motorcycles
Students are not permitted to ride their own motorcycles to school. We have limited parking available on site with no
room for student motorcycles.
3.6 Dining Facilities
The secondary campus offers a choice of two dining outlets.
Menus appear in BISBuzz for the term ahead.
Payment is made using a card system. Students are issued with a card on arrival at the school and they are expected
to keep this card for the entirety of their time in the school. Lost cards can be replaced for a small charge. The value
loaded onto the card is actually stored on the card system rather than the card itself. If we are informed that a card is
lost, the value loaded can be cancelled and transferred to a new card.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
3.5.3 Bicycles
The cards can be topped up by students at the cashier in the Underground between 7am – 7.55am, 10.50am -11.15am,
12.30pm - 1.25pm
3.6.1 BIStro
An open-air café serving snacks, salads, fresh baguettes, sandwiches and wraps along with soft drinks
and fresh fruit smoothies. Sixth Form students, parents and visitors may purchase freshly brewed coffee
and teas.
Open all day from 0700-1600 and for evening events such as concerts, discos and plays.
3.6.2 The Underground
16
An indoor canteen, serving a selection of hot Asian and western meals, with vegetarian options for
both.
Open at lunchtime, 12.30 – 1.25pm.
3.6.3 Packed lunches
Students are welcome to bring in lunches from home and eat them in the BIStro or Underground. A fridge is provided
next to The Underground for student use. Sixth Form students may eat in the kitchen area of the Sixth Form Centre or
at the tables on the Sixth Form balcony. Two fridges are provided in the Sixth Form Centre.
3.6.4Deliveries
In order to maintain a suitable level of security, students are not permitted to order food to be delivered to school.
3.7 Books & Equipment
3.7.1 Textbooks
All textbooks are provided by the school as part of the school fees and most of the books are purchased from the
United Kingdom and are linked to the Programmes of Study or Examination Sprecification. Some subjects issue more
than one textbook and collect them in when not being used. Students are permitted to take textbooks home for their
on-going study and are required to keep books in good condition. An increasing number of subjects provide PDF
versions of textbooks, especially at IB Diploma level.
Books are issued by subject departments and recorded against a student’s name. Students should write their name,
form and year (2013-14) in the front of textbooks issued to them. Textbooks are the property of the school and if
damaged or lost, they must be paid for by the student. Textbooks are collected in at the end of each year for stocktaking.
3.7.2 Exercise books and equipment
Exercise books, worksheets, subject specific resources are provided by the school as part of the school fees.
Students will be given all the relevant exercise books, files and folders which are needed for lessons. Every day the
following equipment should be brought from home:
•A large pencil case to store pens/pencils, calculator, etc.
•It is also a good idea to bring in a folder, with file dividers, to keep worksheets and loose papers tidy, together with
a notepad.
•All equipment and books should be carried to school in a sturdy bag which is sectioned off to help organise
equipment effectively and prevent damage to any of the materials being carried. The bag should fit into the locker
provided at school.
3.7.3 Calculators
Students in Years 7-11 need to have a scientific calculator – these should not be programmable or graphical as such
calculators can only be used in the IB Diploma Programme exams. Scientific calculators can be bought from department
stores. Please label the calculator with your child’s name.
For IB DP students, the model we recommend is the Texas Instruments: TI Nspire (not the CAS model).
3.7.4 Library
Students have access to a well-stocked library and can borrow fiction and non-fiction books for their own use. Books
may be borrowed from the Library. The bar-coded books are logged against the student’s name. Books remain the
property of the school; if they are lost or damaged, the student will be issued with an invoice to cover the costs of
replacement.
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3.7.5 Uniform Shop
Replacement items of uniform are available from the Uniform Shop, as well as occasional items such as books and
stationery that may be useful for students to purchase. The Uniform shop is open Monday to Friday, 0730-1100 and
1130-1630.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
3.7.6 Mobile Computing
BIS supports the use of mobile computing devices and has the infrastructure to allow the effective use of laptops,
tablets, smart-phones and Wi-Fi enabled equipment for all students.
It is compulsory for all students in Years 7-13 to bring a suitable laptop computer to school for learning purposes. Full
details of the requirements and support available is provided in a separate document.
3.7.7 School Computers
BIS is well equipped with computer laboratories, with a range of Apple Macs and PCs. The library is also equipped
with computers for student use.
3.8 Visiting the School
3.8.1 Security
All visitors to the school should wear an identity tag while on campus. Other than parents with their own school identity
tag, all adult visitors are signed in at the guard house and issued with a visitor tag. Visitors are then accompanied to
Reception to await the person they have an appointment with.
3.8.2 Parents
Parents are issued with two security tags that grant them entry to the school. These are swiped at the guard house on
entry and exit. Parents may enter and exit at any gate, including those at the AP1 primary campus at the start and end
of the school day. The back gate (Gate C) is closed during the day. Parents are welcome to visit at any time but are
advised to call in advance to ensure that the person they wish to see is available. Parents of AP1 students may enter
the secondary campus and access the primary campus using the bridge and should swipe their identity tags as they
enter.
3.8.3 Friends, relatives and ex-students
We recognise that students occasionally have visitors who wish to see the school. In order to avoid disruption to
lessons and overcrowding the campus, this is only permitted at lunch times and only with prior permission of the
Deputy Head Teacher. Those wishing to entertain visitors at lunch time should request permission in writing in advance,
with a current parent of the school vouching for the visitor’s good conduct.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Ex-students need to request permission in advance from the Deputy Head Teacher (Welfare and Guidance).
BIS operates a strict no smoking policy on all of its campuses at all times.
3.9 Emergency Evacuation & Lockdown
3.9.1 General information
a)Emergency evacuation of the school may be necessary in the event of fire, bomb,
other threat or natural disaster. The default evacuation route and assembly point for
each are the same.
b)The fire alarm will sound for drills and for a genuine evacuation. Every drill should be
treated as genuine and acted on seriously and with urgency.
c)If there is a need to change to a secondary position an announcement will be made
over the Tannoy system (main building only) giving specific instructions.
3.9.2 Alarms
a) Fire & bomb threats: continuous two-tone siren and flashing lights.
b) School lesson bell: single three second ring.
c)Lockdown (in case of intruder or similar danger): “Lockdown, lockdown, lockdown” over the PA system.
3.9.3 Visitors
a)All visitors on site should evacuate in silence.
b)In the event of a lockdown, they should follow the instructions of their host.
c)Take the nearest staircase to the ground floor and cross Nguyen Van Huong Street to the AP1 primary campus field.
d)Listen carefully to the instructions given by the people in charge.
3.10 Lockers, Valuables & Lost Property
At BIS, “…we act with integrity and treat one another with respect.” (Mission Statement)
3.10.1 Lockers
All students have access to a locker of their own where they can store books, PE kit and valuables. Students are
encouraged to use their lockers for security and so as to avoid the problems of carrying heavy bags to lessons.
There are three types of locker.
Silver lockers
All Year 7 students are allocated a numbered locker near the Year 7 tutor classrooms.
All year 8-11 students are entitled to a numbered locker and can choose the zone in which they would like it. The
school will allocate the actual locker.
Students are provided with a padlock and key for the locker on receipt of a VND100 000 deposit. The school will keep
a spare key. The spares can be accessed at the Secondary Office Reception.
18
Blue Lockers
These lockers are located in key areas in the school and are for short term use, for storing laptops and valuables during
PE and Drama lessons, for example, or during lunchtime or activities, when walking to the allocated silver locker may
not be desirable. Students provide their own padlocks for these.
Sixth Form Lockers
Allocated to Sixth Form students in the Sixth Form Common Room. Students provide their own padlock.
3.10.2 Valuables and lost property
Students and staff at BIS are entitled to a theft-free environment and firm action to deal with those who commit theft.
In our pursuit of a technologically rich learning environment, it is important to safeguard our freedom to bring valuable
technology to school and use it confidently.
Role of the school
The school works to ensure valuables are cared for through:
•valuables boxes for student use during PE lessons
•security guards
•security cameras
•visitor labels and visitor records
•parent ID cards
•preventative education (ILS lessons, assemblies, reminders)
•individual numbered lockers for each student
•student cards for canteen purchases.
Role of parents
•Limit the amount of money brought to school by students.
•Ensure that all belongings are labelled.
•Talk to children about care of belongings and encourage a cautious and careful (not suspicious) attitude.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
19
Role of students
•Do not bring large amounts of money or unnecessary valuable items to school.
•Have a key-operated, solid padlock on lockers.
•Use lockers for wallets during PE/Drama.
•Never leave valuables unattended in bags.
•Report suspected theft immediately to the school Reception.
•Label all valuables clearly.
What to do if an item goes missing
Student informs a teacher as soon as it appears that the item is missing.
Student goes to Reception and reports the loss, completing a missing items log.
Lost Property
Unlabelled items found in school will be taken to the Head of Year Office and stored. Students may visit this office to
recover lost items. At the end of term, unclaimed items are displayed. Any remaining unclaimed after the end of term
may be disposed of.
3.11 Withdrawing from school
We hope that students will be able to complete their secondary school education with us at BIS. We recognise,
however, that families move on. If you intend to leave, parents need to fill out the school’s standard Withdrawal Form,
at least 90 days prior to intended departure, and to ensure that the school has acknowledged receipt of the form in
writing in order to obtain a proper refund (inclusive of deposit). The form is available from Reception.
4. Communication
4.1 Introduction
BIS prides itself on a high standard of customer service we ensure that all parents will be treated with respect at all
times. It is expected that the school will give a prompt reply to any enquiry from parents. Where possible this should
be the same day or at the very latest the next working day. If a full response will need time to formulate or investigate
parents will be informed, giving a date for a full response.
4.2 Student Diaries
General notes to and from home can be written in the student diary. Parents should check the diary and sign it
each week. The student diary is both the main way in which students learn to organise themselves, especially when
they begin Year 7 and have to adapt to the freedom and responsibilities that come with being a secondary student,
and an invaluable method of communication between school and home. Students use the diary every day to record
timetables, homework, House Points / Stickers and Targets etc., and parents and teachers can use the whenever they
need to communicate with one another. Both Form Tutors and parents should be checking and signing the diary once
a week throughout the school year.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Effective communication between teachers and parents is crucial to the smooth running of the school. BIS is a large,
well-organised and busy school.
4.3 Letters
When general paper letters are sent home with students a stamp is placed in the school diary (Year 7-11) to alert parents.
We endeavour to use email as a preferred form of communication. Copies of letters home are kept at Reception and a
prompt for important ones is issued in our weekly newsletter BISbuzz.
4.4 Email
An increasingly important mode of communication is through email. Parents are urged to ensure that the school has
their current contact email address. Queries can be addressed directly to subject teachers by email. An email list is
in Section 10.
4.5 Appointments with Teachers
Parents are always welcome to make an appointment to meet with one of their children’s teachers. An email sent
to the teacher outlining the reason for the meeting and requesting a time is usually the best way of getting in touch.
Teachers will normally respond to an email within 48 hours.
4.6 Website
The school website www.bisvietnam.com contains a wealth of information, including the newsletters for all three
campuses and a list of teachers with email addresses and photographs. Parents are advised to consult the website
for information in the first instance.
4.6.1CHQ
CHQ is an on-line portal to allow parents and students to:
1. Book the term’s extracurricular activities;
2.View the calendar of activities;
3.View attendance at the activities;
4.Accept or decline invitations to participate in team fixtures, day trips and other events;
5.Receive information on key events.
Log-in is available through the school website www.bisvietnam.com
4.6.2Destiny
“Destiny” is the portal to the school library. It is accessed through the school website www.bisvietnam.com
20
4.6.3 SIMS Learning Gateway
SIMS Learning Gateway (SLG) is an online portal to allow parents to:
1. View their child’s timetable;
2.View their child’s attendance;
3.View key events in the school calendar.
Log-in is available through the school website www.bisvietnam.com
4.7 BISbuzz and BISblog
Our weekly school newsletter appears on the school website each Friday afternoon during term and a reminder link is
sent by email to each parent before Monday. A short summary of important dates ahead is included.
A version of BISbuzz currently appears as a blog with access to Twitter and email updates at http://richarddyerbisblog.
blogspot.com/ . The blog has the facility to be translated into other languages with a Google translation button on
the blog itself.
4.8 Spectrum
A full-colour newsletter featuring events from across the school is sent home three times a year at the end of each term.
4.9 Yearbook
A school yearbook is issued to each family free of charge during the summer term.
4.10 Digital Signage
The campus has several large LCD screens that display details of daily and weekly events.
21
4.11 Parent Forums and Coffee Mornings
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
These optional and informal events are held three times a year. Hosted by the Head Teacher and other members of
the teaching staff, the forums last around 90 minutes and typically include a short presentation on an area of school
life. They are variously focussed on school developments and are often an opportunity to ask questions and voice
opinions on particular themes.
4.12 Reports and Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences
A schedule of reports and parent-teacher-student conferences (PTSCs) is sent home at the start of the year. You can
expect to receive contact from the school about your child’s progress, achievement and approach to learning every
term, either in the form of a written report or a face-to-face meeting.
The focus of both is about promoting learning through celebrating success and setting targets, rather than simply
being a summative record of attainment.
4.12.1Reports
The school reports contain information relating to the English National Curriculum level in each subject for Years 7-9,
IGCSE grades for Years 10 & 11 and on the IB scale in Years 12 & 13.
Details of the grading systems are sent home with the reports.
Parents are welcome to make appointments with individual teachers following the report if they have any concerns or
need clarification on any matter.
4.12.2 Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences (PTSCs)
PTSCs are a valuable way of communicating. They occur at various times through the year. Students are expected to
attend PTSCs in full school uniform with their parents.
4.13 Complaints
The school has a complaints policy in order to help deal promptly and effectively with concerns raised by parents. A
copy of the policy may be viewed on request in the Secondary Office. The policy and procedure aim to reassure parents
and others with an interest in the school that:
•any complaint against the school will be dealt with in a fair, open and responsive way, with the aim of achieving a
speedy and satisfactory resolution; and
•the school recognises that a willingness to listen to questions and criticism and to respond positively, can lead to
improvements in school practices and provision for pupils.
Scope of the Policy
•Complainants may be anyone e.g. parents, guardians, grandparents, neighbours of the school or anyone with an interest in the work of the school. However, it is expected that it will be mainly parents or guardians who will make use
of this procedure. The term ‘parent’ is therefore used throughout the procedure as a generic term, but the procedure
also applies in relation to any other type of complainant.
•Complaints may be made by telephone, e-mail, in person or be written.
•A complaint is defined as a clear statement of dissatisfaction about any specified aspect of the school’s work. This
procedure deals with specified day-to-day complaints against the management and/or operation of the school.
General
•Records of all conversations and meetings with parents to resolve formal complaints will be kept.
•The Head Teacher keeps a file of hard copies of Formal School Complaint Forms.
•There may be rare occasions when, despite all the stages of the procedure having been followed, a parent remains
dissatisfied. If the parent seeks to re-open the same issue, the school reserves the right to inform him/her in writing
that the procedure has been exhausted and the matter is closed.
Informal Stage
•On occasions, a parent may raise a concern directly with school staff without any formality. At this stage, it may be
unclear whether the parent is making a complaint, seeking information or has misunderstood a situation. In any
effect, the school aims to resolve the concern at this point in a speedy and effective way.
•However, if the concern is not resolved immediately and a complaint is confirmed by the parent, the opportunity to
discuss the matter with an appropriate member of staff will be given e.g. Deputy Head, Head of Department. In the
case of complaint against the Head Teacher or Deputy Head, this stage will always be heard directly by the Head
Teacher himself.
•The member of staff will discuss the issue with the parent and those involved in school, with the aim of resolving the
complaint as soon as possible. The parent will be informed of the outcome of the investigation and what action, if
any, the school proposes to take.
•If the informal process has been exhausted and no satisfactory solution has been found, the parent will be asked
by the member of staff dealing with the complaint whether (s)he wishes the complaint to be considered formally at
stage one of this procedure.
•If wishing to proceed with the complaint, the parent will be invited to put the complaint in writing to the Head Teacher
using the Formal School Complaint Form available from the Secondary Office. The form should be sent to the Head
Teacher within ten school days.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Written invitations are sent home in advance of the PTSC and students are helped to make appointments with their
teachers. Parents can prioritise certain subjects and teachers often prioritise certain students they are concerned
about.
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5. The Curriculum
5.1 Organisation
Detailed information on the school’s curriculum is set out in the curriculum booklets and option booklets available on
the school website.
The secondary curriculum is organised into three parts:
Key Stage 3
KS3: Years 7, 8, 9. Guided and structured by the National Curriculum for England, adapted to our international context.
Key Stage 4
KS4: Years 10 & 11. A core of International Life Skills and Physical Education and compulsory and optional examination
courses leading to Cambridge International General Certificates of Secondary Education (IGCSEs).
Sixth Form
Years 12 & 13. A core of International Life Skills and Physical Education and compulsory and optional examination
courses forming the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
Each of these areas of the curriculum is described in detail in individual booklets which are given to new parents and
available on the school website here:
http://www.bisvietnam.com/index.php/curriculum_overview-42.htm
Home>About us>Curriculum>Curriculum Overview
and
http://www.bisvietnam.com/index.php/curriculum_details-43.htm
Home>About us>Curriculum>Curriculum Details
5.2 Options (Electives)
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Various curriculum options (electives) are available to students with the choice increasing as they progress through
secondary education.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Key Stage 3
Some language choices. See BIS KS3 Curriculum Handbook.
Key Stage 4
Four subject choices and various routes through core subjects. See BIS KS4 Curriculum Handbook and Options Booklet.
Sixth Form
A wide range of choices from six areas. See BIS IB Handbook and Options Booklet.
5.3 Homework
5.3.1 Recording homework
Students record homework in their diaries and are expected to tick when complete. Parents play a key role in supporting the aims of homework by providing a quiet place to work and encouraging the routine of completing homework on
the night set.
5.3.2 Homework timetable
Homework is set according to a timetable that is published to students and parents in August each year.
5.3.1 Recording homework
Students record homework in their diaries and are expected to tick when complete. Parents play a key role in supporting the aims of homework by providing a quiet place to work and encouraging the routine of completing homework on
the night set.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Homework is an essential part of an effective partnership between home and school that
helps to encourage successful learning. Homework not only reinforces classroom learning, it also helps all BIS students to develop skills and attitudes they need for successful
lifelong learning. It can support the development of independent learning skills, including
enquiry, investigation, learning how to learn, personal organisation and perseverance.
5.3.2 Homework timetable
Homework is set according to a timetable that is published to students and parents in August each year.
5.3.3 Secondary homework timings
Year Group
Guideline Times
Years 7 & 8
Approx 30 minutes per subject, 3-4 subjects per night, Mon-Fri.
Year 9
30-40 minutes per subject, 3-4 subjects per night, Mon-Fri.
Years 10 & 11
40-50 minutes per subject, 3-4 subjects per night, Mon-Fri.
Years 12 & 13
Up to 60 minutes per subject, but also longer term work; research and assignment writing.
5.3.4 Holiday homework
Holiday homework is not set for years 7-9. This does not preclude a teacher providing students with optional holiday
tasks such as a short reading list, puzzle sheets, interesting websites.
Holiday homework is set for years 10-13 and should always be optional, though could be strongly recommended.
Students approaching external examinations should be guided on the nature and quantity of revision that is expected
and recommended.
Such homework should be of a type that can be done while travelling.
5.4 Instrumental Lessons
Students are encouraged to learn a musical instrument. Lessons in brass, woodwind or string instruments take place
during the day by withdrawal from regular lessons. There is a rotation so that the same lesson is not missed each week.
Piano tends to be by private tutor at the teacher or student’s house. Lessons are taught by BIS staff or peripatetic
teachers – they must be paid for in advance. Associated Board of the Royal School of Music (ABRSM) examinations are
also offered at the school.
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6. Welfare and Guidance
6.1 Careers and University Guidance
The school offers all students the support of a Careers & University Guidance Counsellor. The role of the Counsellor
is to ensure that students have the necessary skills to make the right choices regarding their future. This starts in
year 7 in International Life Skills where students consider the world of work and career ideas. It continues through
the school, examining a range of topics including decision making, communication and self-esteem and moves on to
practical help with CV and interview preparation and finally preparation for University.
All year 10 students take the Morrisby assessment through the Futurewise organisation. It clarifies students’ aptitudes
and abilities as well as offering potential career suggestions and has proved to be very helpful and popular. Access to
the excellent Futurewise website is part of the student package and available until their 23rd birthday.
Individuals are encouraged to make an appointment to see the counsellor at any time. Things commonly discussed
include IGCSE choices, IB options, university choices, changes to options and applications to university, including
personal statements, required documentation and references.
Parents are also very welcome to make an appointment to see the Careers Counsellor and the contact details are available at the end of this section.
Parents are asked to support their children by:
•Being open and honest about financial constraints that might affect further education choices.
•Being open to their child’s decisions and discussing it to better understand their choices.
•Visiting the universities being considered (if possible) to aid decision making.
•Finding out the facts about university applications and related topics through research and visiting the Careers
Counsellor.
•Ensuring that all the application requirements of any chosen university are checked thoroughly.
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There are many university visits throughout the term and details are available in BISbuzz. Parents are also welcome
to attend these talks.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Please contact the Careers Counsellor, Mr. Aidan Crowley, via
Telephone: (84 8) 3744 2335 Extension 249
Email: [email protected]
6.2 Medical Centre
The school employs three full-time nurses, one on each campus. The nurses work together with the teachers and staff
to provide a high level of care for children who are sick or hurt during the school day.
6.2.1 Visiting the Nurse
Students may request permission of their teacher to visit the Nurse. A form in the student diary is used to inform the
Nurse that permission has been granted and the time when the student left the lesson. The Nurse completes the form
when the student returns to class, logging the time at which the student leaves the Medical Centre.
Students wishing to visit the Nurse at the start of a lesson should request permission from the teacher of that lesson
before going.
Students may visit the nurse during break or lunchtime.
6.2.2 Students becoming ill while in school
If a student is unwell or injured, the nurse will make a decision on whether the student should stay in school. The
nurse may contact parents to ask that they collect their child from school. Parents are requested to cooperate with
such requests to safeguard other children in school.
Students themselves may not ask parents to collect them without approval and permission from the nurse.
6.2.3 Students ill before coming to school
Please remember to inform the school if your child is absent because of illness.
A child with a contagious disease (a disease which can easily be passed on to other people) will be sent home. They
may come back to school when the risk of infecting other children has passed. Please call the school to let us know if
your child becomes ill with a contagious disease. We can then watch out for similar symptoms in other children.
How to tell when it is safe to send your child back to school.
Chickenpox—at least 5 days from the onset of rash and once all blisters are dry and crusted over.
Impetigo—at least 48 hours after start of antibiotics
Conjunctivitis (red-eye)—at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic eye drops and when there is no drainage from
eye(s)
Lice and Scabies—following medical treatment and removal of all eggs
Hepatitis—physician statement required for re-admittance
Scarlet fever/Strep throat—24 hours after the start of antibiotics
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
To limit the chances of making other children ill, please do not send or bring your child to school if s/he has any of the
following:
•Fever (37.5°C)
•Diarrhoea
•Vomiting
•Contagious disease (chickenpox, HFMD-hand, foot and mouth disease, mumps, diphtheria)
•Head lice
Other illnesses will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
Fever is usually an indication of infection and is often a symptom of a contagious illness. Your child should not come
to school if he/she has a fever or has had a fever within the last 24 hours (even if the temperature has come down with
medication). If a student is found to have a very high temperature (usually above 37.5° C) then, at the discretion of the
Nurse, we will contact parents to arrange collection from school.
6.2.4Medication
Children should not bring medication to school and take it without adult supervision. The Nurse will look after medicines (in the original container) sent in with a child and will supervise the student taking them in the Medical Centre in
the correct quantity at the proper time. Medicines will only be given if there is a written and signed note from a parent/
guardian.
The school policy requires the Nurse only to give medicines where it is clear that they will help control pain or fever.
On the understanding that it is not always easy or necessary to contact parents or guardians, we will not always ask
for permission before giving medication for pain relief or fever. However, if you do not wish any medication to be
administered to your child by the Nurse without your authority, please indicate this on the medical update form that
is completed on entry and updated annually. Please also indicate if there is any reason why your child should not be
given a particular type of medicine (e.g. an allergy). This information will be passed on to the school nurse.
A careful record will be kept of any medication administered at school. If your child is given medicine, they will be given
a note in their diary by the nurse indicating the type of medicine and the time at which it was given. A record will also
be entered onto SIMS.
6.2.5Injuries
Minor incidents (scrapes, cuts, etc.) will be dealt with as deemed appropriate by the school nurse, teacher or assistant, using basic first aid techniques.
If a more serious accident (sports injury, broken bones, head injuries, fainting, etc.) occurs on campus during school
hours, the child will be taken to the school Nurse to be evaluated and an incident report will be made. If the Nurse and
staff dealing with the incident think that it is in the best interests of the student to take them immediately to hospital;
the student will be taken to hospital nominated on the medical form. Parents will be notified by telephone as soon as
possible if the child is taken to hospital. If the parents cannot be contacted and it is thought appropriate, the child will
be taken immediately to the nearest suitable hospital. We will continue to attempt to contact parents.
Where an accident or serious illness occurs on a school trip, the child will be taken to the best available hospital in the
area and parents will be contacted as soon as possible.
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6.2.6Allergies/On-going medical problems
Please ensure that the school medical form has been completed and returned to school. If you have not filled in this
form, please request one as soon as possible from Reception. Notify the school in writing and speak to your child’s
teacher about any new allergies (food or medication) that your child has, or any change in contact number or medical
conditions. Each year we will ask parents to update the information we have by asking for a new form to be completed.
6.3 Health & Safety
The school has a health and safety committee and a representative on the secondary campus.
Regular checks are made to ensure that the facilities and environment are safe for all who attend
the school.
6.3.1 Smoking
BIS operates a strict ‘no smoking’ policy on all its campuses.
6.3.2 Risk Assessment
All new off-campus trips and activities are subject to a full risk-assessment in advance.
6.3.3 First Aid
All residential trips are accompanied by a member of staff with up to date first aid certification.
6.3.4 Lightning
BIS uses a lightning detector for PE lessons, and activities on the field and during break and lunch-times. If a storm is
approaching the detector warns the duty teacher and the area is cleared. The detector also indicates when it is safe
to go back outside.
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6.4 Insurance
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
All students are expected to be insured through their family’s health plan. The school is therefore not liable for medical
bills resulting from an accident at school. School trips carry basic insurance to cover accidents. It is strongly recommended to take out year-round family travel insurance.
6.5 Houses
Every student at BIS belongs to one of its four houses:
Dalat – Green, Hanoi – Red, Hue – Yellow, Saigon – Blue
These houses have two main functions. On the one hand they represent four separate groups which compete against
one another in events such as Sports Day, the annual house quiz and so on. Of course, this is all done in good spirit
and the chief purpose of the house system in this sense is to create intra-school challenges and competition.
They also have another equally important role to play. Each house has a special responsibility to form links with the
community at large. They might, for instance, put together an assembly to which they invite visiting speakers or groups
of outside contributors. They also organise fund-raising events raise money for charity. In effect, this is one area of
school life in which the specific aim is to look outside our immediate environment and to see what we can learn about
or contribute to the lives of others.
6.5.1 House Points and Certificates
A student is given a House Point (KS3) or Sticker (KS4-5) which is recorded in their Secondary Diary, for excellence in
class or for participation in extracurricular activities. The accumulation of House Points takes place throughout the
academic year, with Certificates, awarded in assembly, gained for achieving the numbers below.
• Bronze Certificate 50 House Points 25 Stickers
• Silver Certificate 100 House Points 50 Stickers
• Gold Certificate 150 House Points 75 Stickers
• Platinum Certificate 200 House Points 100 Stickers
6.6
Student Leadership
6.6.1 Student Council (SC)
The SC meets weekly.
6.6.2 House Captains
Students can also be elected as House Captains, with one House Captain for each House in each Year. House Captains
work to organise and motivate the students in their House in a variety of different activities, with the Senior (Year 12)
House Captain being a member of the SC.
6.6.3 Prefects
Every year prefects are selected from Year 12. They are chosen because have certain distinguishing qualities. For instance, they have a strong sense of responsibility and are able to use their own initiative. They are also be willing to
get involved and have a genuine interest in supporting the school and their fellow students. Above all, they are caring,
honest people who earn the respect of others through their actions.
The function of the prefect is not to hold any kind of power or authority over other students. They are given certain responsibilities are be called upon to help the school in a range of ways. Nevertheless, they will not be given any special
privileges in return. Their prefect status will be recorded in references and other documentation but no more than that.
In fact, the greatest reward for being a prefect is the special public recognition that they are a trusted and respected
member of the school community.
There are many highly valued students at our school and not all of them will become a prefect. However, on the whole,
prefects are chosen because they are worthy representatives of the rest of the community and as such they are a clear
reflection on all of us.
6.6.4 Head Students
Four prefects are chosen annually by the Head Teacher to be Head Girl, Head Boy and Deputy Head Girl, Deputy Head Boy.
The role of the Head Students role includes:
•Leading and participating in assemblies
•Running the Student Council
•Attending regular meeting with the Deputy Head/Head Teacher
•Contributing to school publications
•Meeting and giving tours to guests
•Organising Prefect teams for school functions and events.
6.7 Uniform and Behaviour
6.7.1 School Uniform
Observing how the students wear their uniform often gives others lasting impressions of a school. Students who
present themselves well will earn respect for themselves and their school because they have shown respect for their
school and pride in their appearance.
Girls
•School issued blouse – plain white with badge. Should be recently pressed or ironed.
•School issued skirt – beige, school issue. No skorts.
•Sweater (optional) – only school sweater may be worn.
•Socks – plain white. “No socks” is also allowed.
•Shoes – clean and polished black leather (no suede, trainers/sports shoes or thick soles – max 2cm)
•Hair should be neat, clean and of a natural colour. No extremes are permitted.
•Make-up and/or nail varnish are not allowed.
•Jewellery: small items will be allowed within reason. The W&G leaders will decide what is within the spirit of the
rules. As a rule of thumb: one pair of plain earrings or studs (worn in the lobe of the ear); one plain ring; one plain
necklace; bracelet-friendship bands within reason (2 maximum); no visible tattoos or body piercings.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
The SC links students from all Years to foster teamwork and leadership opportunities now and for the future, working
together to improve BIS. The SC is led by students for students and is an active and forward-looking organisation. It is
the voice of the students, but offers solutions, not just complaints. Each Form elects one SC member. The SC meetings
are chaired by the Head Students.
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Boys
•School issued shirt – plain white with badge – worn tucked-in. Should be recently pressed or ironed.
•School issued trousers – long beige trousers, worn at the waist and tailored so that the bottoms just cover the tops
of the shoes or beige shorts. Shorts may only be worn by Years 7-9.
•Sweater (optional) – only school sweater may be worn.
•Socks – plain white
•Shoes – clean and polished black leather (no suede, trainers/sports shoes or sandals)
•Belt – black leather
•Hair should be neat, clean, not below the shirt collar and of a natural colour. No extremes are permitted.
•Jewellery: small items will be allowed within reason - The W&G leaders will decide what is within the spirit of the
rules. As a rule of thumb: no earrings or studs; one plain ring; one plain necklace; bracelet-friendship bands within
reason (2 maximum); no visible tattoos or body piercings.
Sixth Form Girls
•Pale blue school blouse. Should be recently pressed or ironed.
•Skirt – navy blue, school issue.
•Rest as above.
Sixth Form Boys
•Pale blue school shirt – worn tucked-in. Should be recently pressed or ironed.
•Trousers – navy blue trousers, worn at the waist and tailored so that the bottoms just cover the tops of the shoes
(school issue only)
•Rest as above.
6.7.2 PE and Drama
•All students should have their House t-shirt, which will be worn for House activities during the year.
•Only school PE kit may be worn in PE lessons.
•House T-shirts, FOBISIA kit, Mascot t-shirt or other appropriate clothing may be worn for sports run during activities
time.
•Students may change into suitable shorts and T-shirts for drama lessons.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
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Students should not wear a mix of school uniform, PE Kit or drama clothes or footwear at any time and should not
change out of school uniform, including changing into trainers, before leaving school.
7. Behaviour & The Code of Conduct
Since lifelong learning success depends to a great extent on making responsible choices, we have developed our Code
of Conduct. This gives students guidance in making sensible decisions about their behaviour; this then enables learning to take place in a positive, nurturing classroom environment.
The teachers at BIS have common expectations about how we want you to behave; we will take time to teach you how
to manage your own behaviour and we will provide you with consistent positive encouragement through feedback and
Rewards to motivate you to behave appropriately. Should you choose not to follow the Rules, we will deal calmly and
quickly with you. There will be Sanctions that will be carried out consistently.
Individual teachers will establish rules in their classrooms but there are some general rules that you will also be expected to follow.
The Code of Conduct is in all student diaries and is supported by three sets of guidelines and procedures:
•School Rules
•Rewards
•Sanctions
7.2
School Rules
Everybody has the right to feel safe, valued and contented at BIS, so:
•please move about the school in an orderly manner;
•please walk on the right on staircases and in corridors;
•please be courteous to others;
•please be aware of cultural differences and act accordingly; what may be acceptable in your culture may not be acceptable in another;
•please refrain from inappropriate public displays of affection (PDAs).
Everybody has the right to learn at BIS, so:
•please bring the correct equipment to each lesson;
•please follow instructions first time;
•please do all your work to the best of your ability and with pride.
Everybody has the right to benefit from our pleasant environment, therefore
•please care for the buildings and school resources;
•please keep BIS tidy;
•please put litter in the bin;
•please eat only in the designated areas: BIStro; Underground; Sixth Form Centre.
•please keep BIS free from drugs, alcohol, cigarettes and chewing gum.
7.3 Rewards
The school rewards good work, good performance and appropriate behaviour by use of:
•praise;
•commendations;
•positive notes and telephone calls home;
•certificates;
•annual awards and trophies.
7.3.1 Commendations
The Commendation System is a means by which teachers can recognise and reward a wide range of student behaviour
(e.g. good class work and homework, helpfulness in specific tasks, good behaviour etc.)
There are two types of Commendation:
Academic Commendations
•An outstanding piece of work / homework
•Consistent achievement
•Outstanding effort with class work or homework
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
7.1 The Code of Conduct
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Community Commendations
•Contributions to the school by taking part in special events/ activities
•Helping out in the school community and help others without necessarily being asked
•Helping in school to organise/contribute to service and charity events
The accumulation of Commendations takes place throughout the academic year, with Certificates, awarded in assembly, gained for achieving the numbers below.
Years 7 and Year 8
•Bronze Certificate 50 Commendations
•Silver Certificate 100 Commendations
•Gold Certificate 150 Commendations
•Platinum Certificate 200 Commendations
Years 9, 10 and 11
•Bronze Certificate 25 Commendations
•Silver Certificate 50 Commendations
•Gold Certificate 75 Commendations
•Platinum Certificate 100 Commendations
Years 12 & 13
•Bronze Certificate •Silver Certificate •Gold Certificate •Platinum Certificate 15 Commendations
30 Commendations
45 Commendations
60 Commendations
7.3.2 Annual Awards and Trophies
Annual awards are presented at the summer term Prize Giving. Student names are engraved on the main trophy and
students receive a small trophy to keep.
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Although all awards are typically made annually, the school reserves the option to withhold an award if there is no
suitable candidate.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Dux Scholaris
An academic prize awarded to one Year 13 student who achieves the best IB Diploma Programme score.
Sixth Form Award
Awarded to one student from Year 12 or 13 for outstanding contribution to the life of the Sixth Form.
Internationalism Award
Awarded to one student for being a good representative of his/her own country, possessing a positive attitude toward
the life and culture of others and for being able to converse in at least two languages. For having the ability to bring
differing people together into a sense of community, thus furthering the cause of international understanding and for
being a contributing force in the life of the school at all times.
Victor Ludorum / Victrix Ludorum
Prizes for the outstanding school sportsman and woman annually in extracurricular participation, school teams and
sporting excellence.
Head Teacher’s Award
Awarded to one student from any year for outstanding all round contribution to the school. Typically a Year 13 student.
Community Award
Awarded to one student from any year for showing sustained commitment to school community service projects.
Athletics Trophies (2)
Awarded to the top boy and girl athlete (track & field) from any year group.
Swimming Trophies (2)
Awarded to the top boy and girl swimmer from any year group.
Basketball Trophies (2)
Awarded to the top boy and girl basketball players from any year group.
Football Trophies (2)
Awarded to the top boy and girl footballer from any year group.
7.4 Sanctions
Our aim at BIS is to be a community (of students, staff and parents), within which every student feels safe, happy and
valued and within which they are able to maximise their academic achievement and develop the personal attributes
which will best equip them for their futures.
This set of procedures informs students and parents of the ways in which the school works to ensure the most appropriate behaviour from its students.
We recognise that skills, characteristics or habits such as self-discipline, tenacity and resilience are vitally important
in life and are key determinants of educational outcomes and, moreover, that they are learned and learnable. Our
primary task should therefore be to educate rather than punish when students make unwise choices or fail to demonstrate these skills and characteristics.
We believe that effective and appropriate behaviour is best achieved when students and their parents/carers have
a very clear understanding of our expectations and also of the consequences of failing to behave according to our
standards.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Performing Arts Trophies (2)
Awarded to two students in any year making the best contribution to drama or music (typically one of each). This is for
contribution to school productions or performances rather than drama or music as taught subjects.
Our expectations are high and are articulated to students and parents prior to them joining the school and are reinforced clearly and consistently throughout their time at BIS. It is important that parents share these expectations and
work to support them.
We recognise and value every student as an individual and will endeavour to respond in the most appropriate way to
their needs. However, many of the most difficult decisions arise when there is a conflict between the best course of
action for an individual and the best course of action for the school community as a whole. When such tensions arise
the considerations of the community will usually supersede those of the individual.
We shall in the organisation and delivery of the curriculum ensure that all our students are appropriately engaged,
challenged and motivated. We shall ensure that their holistic progress is monitored and that there is a well co-ordinated system of welfare and guidance for all students.
We will recognise and praise good behaviour both privately and publicly, for example by word of mouth, the commendation system, appointment to positions of responsibility, letters to students and their parents/carers, in assemblies,
notices, newsletters.
7.4.1 Jurisdiction
The school’s behaviour policy applies:
•to students while in school, travelling to and from school or at other times when in uniform or school kit;
•to students on trips, exchanges or when representing the school;
•to behaviour outside school if there is a clear link between that behaviour and maintaining good behaviour and
discipline among the student body as a whole.
7.4.2 Bullying
We are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of our students so they can learn in a
productive and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable. If bullying does occur, all students should
be able to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. We are a telling school. This means
that anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell an adult.
Who to tell in the first instance:
Form Teacher
Heads of Year
Head of Lower Secondary, Middle Secondary or Sixth Form
Deputy Head Welfare & Guidance
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7.4.3Classroom and lesson expectations
Classrooms, including all laboratories, studios and workshops, are for work. Just as in any workplace, there needs to
be clearly understood rules and expectations to allow everyone to work successfully, safely and enjoyably.
At the start of lessons, students are expected to:
•arrive on time;
•enter rooms sensibly as directed, and go straight to their workplace;
•take out books, pens and equipment, including diary;
•put bags tidily in appropriate place;
•remain silent during the register (except when names are called).
During lessons, students are expected to:
•remain silent and concentrate when a teacher talks to the whole class;
•put up hands to answer questions directed at the whole class rather than call out (unless the teacher has asked for
quick ideas);
•have pen, pencil, ruler, diary and any books, folders and appropriate equipment;
•work sensibly with classmates and not distract or annoy them;
•record homework in the diary and make sure the homework task and deadlines are understood;
•switch off and put away mobile phones and media players unless being used specifically for the lesson;
•not leave a lesson without permission.
At the end of lessons, students are expected to:
•pack away quietly and sensible when told by the teacher, not before.
There is no excuse for rudeness, disrespect, defiance or insolence towards teachers, prefects, teaching assistants or
support staff; any reasonable request should be carried out at once and without argument. Breaking either of these
basic rules will be treated as a serious matter.
7.4.4 Care of equipment
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•Only name, year, form and subject should be written on the outside of exercise books.
•Any book damaged or lost whilst in the possession of a student will be replaced at a cost to the individual.
•Any equipment broken by carelessness or misuse will be replaced at a cost to the individual responsible or to a
group of students as appropriate.
•All equipment used in lessons is counted out and in and students are expected to cooperate with this.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
7.4.5 Specific School Sanctions
There are two parallel systems of sanctions, each designed to be maximally effective in ensuring good behaviour and
productive learning.
The general behaviour system provides three levels of sanctions, focussing on providing monitoring and support for
students who go off track.
The homework detention system provides four levels of sanction, designed to ensure that homework is completed to
the best of a student’s ability and submitted on time. For persistent problems, this system is more punitive.
Parents are informed if problems become persistent or more than simple cases of high spirits or occasional lapses.
The following tables summarise the systems from a student’s perspective.
7.4.6 Diagram of General Behaviour Sanctions for Students
First
Second
Third
What might I have done?
Who will deal
with me?
•Failed to bring basic equipment
•Incorrect uniform
•Dropping litter
•Chewing gum
•Lateness to school, a lesson or activity
•Missing two activities per term without
informing the activity leader
•Use of mobile phone & other electronic
equipment in contravention of the
guidelines for use.
The teacher who Reprimand, confiscation, litter
duty, loss of part of break or
caught you.
lunch time(supervision), activity
supervision moved to another seat in
Possibly your
class, note in diary.
Form Tutor or
Head of Year.
Form Tutor may be informed.
Placed on Form Tutor White Report.
•Repetition of poor behaviour
•Defiance
•Lack of respect for other students
•Graffiti
•Disruption
•Continued lack of commitment resulting Head of Year
in poor performance
Deputy Head
•Smoking
•Bullying
•Missing a timetabled lesson
•Discrimination or harassment of any
kind.
•Persistent failure to comply with school
rules
•Truancy - leaving the campus
•Refusal to comply with the instructions
of a member of staff
•Serious actual or threatened violence
•Sexual abuse or assault
•Carrying an offensive weapon
•Swearing at a member of staff
•Theft, Arson or Vandalism
•Severe bullying
•Severe discrimination or harassment
•Possession of an illegal drug
•Possession of any other banned
substance
•Drug or substance related abuse
What might happen?
Detention.
A behaviour report is logged on SIMS.
May be placed on a Monitoring
Report (HoY Blue Report), internally
excluded, given a community punishment or something similar.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
What level?
Parents informed in writing and their
support requested.
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Parents informed.
Deputy Head
Logged on SIMS record.
Head Teacher
Pastoral Monitoring Programme
Possible exclusion.
7.4.7 Diagram of Behaviour for Learning Sanctions for Students
What level? What might I have done?
A
• Failing to submit homework
• Poor behaviour within lessons
• Lack of progress in line with their ability
• Failure to bring basic equipment
• Plagiarism or cheating
B
• Failing to attend a subject teacher
supervision
• Failing to submit homework - repeated
offence
• Continuing poor behaviour within lessons
• Continued lack of progress in line with their
ability
• Plagiarism or cheating (repeated offence or in
assessed pieces of work)
C
• Persistently failing to submit homework
• Failing to attend a properly notified Head of
Department Detention
• Plagiarism or Cheating in assessed pieces of
work
Who will deal
with me?
What might happen?
Reprimand, chance to submit later.
Your subject
teacher
Head of Department
Possibly your
Form Tutor or
Head of Year
Head of Year
Deputy Head
Lunch supervision with the subject
teacher and a chance to do the work well.
Parents informed.
Logged on SIMS record.
Head of Department Detention (45
minutes after school).
Parents informed.
Logged on SIMS record.
Placed on the appropriate HoY Monitoring
Report.
HoY Detention (1 hour after school)
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Parents informed.
Logged on SIMS record.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
D
Serious or persistent problems with the above,
indicating defiance or lack of commitment to
improve.
Deputy Head
Head Teacher
Placed on Red Report
Head Teacher’s Detention (2 hours Saturday morning).
Pastoral Monitoring Programme
Possible Exclusion.
7.5 Admission Expectations
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
The following Admission Expectations are provided to parents when their child is offered a place at BIS. They are reproduced here for reference.
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8. Activities and Trips
8.1 Activities
A full and varied programme of activities is available to students, covering all aspects of sports, culture, the arts,
community service and more. To supplement the wide range of activities offered free of charge by the teachers, a
range of specialist paid activities is available each term.
Activities run before lessons from 0630, lunchtimes and in two periods from 1450-1550 and from 1555-1655 every
weekday.
A small number of activities take place at weekends and some, such as the Duke of Edinburgh International Award
require a commitment throughout the year.
A programme of activities is published at the start of each term.
Students are encouraged to take part in a variety of activities, broadly covering the areas of Creativity, Action and
Service, in preparation for the IB CAS programme in the Sixth Form.
If an activity teacher is unable to take the activity, parents will be informed at least 24 hours in advance of a cancellation
or alternative arrangement to look after the students will be made at school.
8.2 Saturday Football
Saturday Football is run by volunteer parents on Saturday mornings during term time. This takes place on the AP1
Primary Campus field and is open to boys and girls of all ages.
8.3 Trips
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
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“I regard it as the foremost task of education to insure the survival of these qualities: an enterprising curiosity, an
undefeatable spirit, tenacity in pursuit, readiness for sensible self denial, and above all, compassion.” Kurt Hahn
The British International School believes in the all-round development of its students. To this end the school ensures
that the programme of residential trips and visits it organises are well-planned, structured, show progression and
provide continuity with classroom learning. Each trip is carefully planned to provide a range of age appropriate
opportunities for the development of personal qualities such as leadership, independence, self-esteem and
perseverance as well as developing respect for different cultures. For many year groups there are compulsory trips and
visits where participation is expected from all students.
Various curriculum based trips run from time to time through the year, varying from history trips to the town centre (for
example) to IB geography field trips.
8.3.1 Trips Week
In addition, a key part of the learning experience at BIS is provided through a residential trips week, usually held in
February when the weather in Vietnam is reasonably predictable and pleasant. All students in Years 7-10 and 12 are
expected to take part in Trips Week.
Years 7-10 participate as a whole year group whereas for Year 12, there will be a range of options on offer.
The aim of each trip is for students to participate in a challenging residential experience covering creativity, action,
service and leadership development.
There is a cost for Trips Week that parents need to budget for.
See also Health & Safety.
8.3.2 Trips overview
As the school grows we are able to offer more and more opportunities for study and competition away from BIS.
Some trips are for necessary fieldwork which is related to a subject’s examination syllabus or a year-group’s school
curriculum; some trips are designed to enhance learning (such as practising a language); whilst some trips allow
us to take part in a competition. When choosing trips, parents naturally will want to know costs so that the year’s
expenditure can be planned. They will also need to consider which trips are compulsory, which are optional and which
one must audition or attend trials for. Trip coordinators will send details nearer the time, but please see the overview
in the table below which will help you make choices in advance. Costs are approximate at this stage.
DATE
DETAILS
YEAR GROUP
Est. COST
(Based on 2012-13)
28th – 29th September
2013
Vietnamese Literature Trip to Quy
Nhon
Y12-13
VND 4,950,000
11th -13th October 2013
Geography Trip to Mui Ne
Compulsory
for Y11 IGCSE
Geog students
VND 4,500,000
30th Oct - 3rd Nov 2013
SEOMUN (Korea)
Y10-13
VND 28,000,000
7th – 10th November 2013
Phuket Football 7’s
Y10-13
VND 20,000,000
15th – 16th November 2013 UNIS Hanoi Swim Meet - TBC
Y7-13
VND 6,500,000
14th – 19th November
2013
Y7-13
VND 20,000,000
21st – 25th November 2013 U15 FOBISIA Games BIS HCMC
Y9-10
VND 6,500,000
10th November 2013
Geography Day Trip (HCMC)
Compulsory for Y10
IGCSE Geog students
No cost
6th – 8th December 2013
Swim Meet Bangkok Patana School
Y7-13
VND 16,000,000
13th – 17th January 2014
FOBISIA Music Festival – GIS, Rayong, Thailand
Y7 – Madagui
Y8 – Dalat
Y9 – Sapa
Y10 – Taman Negara, Malaysia
Y12
Kontum
Chiang Mai
Koh Phi Phi
Compulsory
VND 14,600,000
VND 13,200,000
VND 20,900,000
VND 22,500,000
VND 11,000,000
VND 20,500,000
VND 25,300,000
22nd – 24th January 2014
FOBISIA MUN Brunei
Y9-13
VND 25,000,000
6th – 8th February 2014
FOBISIA Drama Festival HCMC
Y7-9
VND 6,500,000
10th February 2014
Y12 Graham Greene HCMC day trip
Y12
No cost
15th – 16th February 2014
Y10 & Y12 D of E IA Practice Expeditions
Y10&12
VND 4,000,000
27th Feb – 2nd Mar 2014
SEAMC BIS HCMC
Y7 - 10
VND 4,500,000
27th Feb – 2nd Mar 2014
Debating Workshops and Festival,
Dulwich College Shanghai
Y7-10
TBC
13th – 17th March 2014
U13 FOBISIA Games Shrewsbury
School, Bangkok
Y7 - 8
VND 25,000,000
21st March 2014
Y9 Vietnamese Day Trip
Y9
No cost
21st – 23rd March 2014
Saigon MUN
Y9-13
VND 1,500,000
19th – 22nd April 2014
D of E IA Adventurous Journey Assessed (Gold)
Y12
VND 6,000,000
22nd April 2014
Y8 Vietnamese Day Trip
Y8
No cost
26th – 27th April 2014
D of E IA Adventurous Journey Assessed (Bronze)
Y10
VND 5,000,000
2nd – 4th May 2014
ISTA Drama
Y7-9
VND15,000,000
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
Although many trips are dependent on other schools and external providers for both time and price, the table below
gives an overview of the probable trips to help parents plan.
38
9. Parent Teacher Group
All teachers and all parents/guardians of BIS students are automatically members of the PTG. The PTG thus provides a
link between parents, teachers and students, with the purpose of promoting and helping to build a strong and united
school community, as well as assisting in raising funds and providing resources for various projects. The PTG strives to
build community spirit among children, parents and staff.
The PTG is overseen by the PTG committee which includes four parent representatives and the Head of Secondary.
The parent representatives are elected at an Annual General Meeting (AGM) each May. Parents can volunteer for the
following positions: Chair, Vice-chair, Treasurer, or Secretary. We also have two sub-committees: community service
and social events. All volunteers are welcome, whatever their interests or availability, since it takes a large team to
coordinate all of the activities throughout the year. PTG activities vary from year to year and evolve as the needs of the
school community change. While many PTG activities are social, others are fund-raisers.
If you are keen to become more involved in school life, you are welcome to attend our meetings; we are a diverse group
of people who have fun making a difference in the lives of our children at school. If you are interested, please contact
any member of the PTG Executive Committee for more details.
9.1 PTG Executive Committee 2013-14
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39
Name
Position
Clare Nevin
Chair
Anne Brink
Vice Chair
Regina Tay
Treasurer
Eunice Tan
Secretary
Email
[email protected]
9.2 Other PTG contacts
Community Service Social Coordinator
Jay Nielsen
Cindy Kazzi
PTG meetings are held every month, usually on the second Friday, at 8.15 am in one of the meeting rooms next to
Reception. Notification of the meetings will be sent by email and minutes are posted on the Notice Board outside
Reception.
9.4 Special Events and Fund Raising
Many special events occur throughout the year. These may be organised by the school, the PTG or both. Most provide
opportunities for volunteer involvement and many are fund raisers. Fund raising at the school includes raising money
for charities and for the school. Raising money for charities serves the specific purpose of giving money to charities
but also educates students about charities and fund raising. Raising money for the school enriches students’ lives by
allowing the purchase of items that are outside the school budget. The most frequent and major special events are
listed below. Events may change from year to year.
9.4.1 International Day
International Day has been celebrated at BIS for many years. This is a festival celebrating the wide range of cultures
and nationalities which make up the school community and the spirit which brings everyone together. Students dress
in their national attire, enjoy sampling international food and drink and participate in other activities. International
Day is organised by the school in conjunction with the PTG.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
9.3 AP2 PTG Meetings & Minutes
9.4.2 Christmas BISzaar
This is the main PTG fund-raising event held toward the end of Term 1. It has become a wonderful BIS community event
with many local vendors, activities for children, visits from Santa, musical interludes and a variety of refreshments.
9.4.3 Wine & Cheese Evenings
These are held at the start of Term 1 and Term 2, and offer a chance for parents and teachers to meet in an informal
atmosphere. Details are published in the weekly BISbuzz newsletter.
9.5 Settling in to BIS and Ho Chi Minh City
As you go about settling into your new home as well as settling your child(ren) into their new class, you may find that
you need someone to talk to, to ask questions about living in Ho Chi Minh City or even about school. Sometimes just
a friendly chat over a cup of coffee can make all the difference. Please feel welcome to contact anyone from the PTG
to do just that. The contact details of the executive committee are listed above but we can also put you in touch with
parents from your own country.
9.6 Parent Volunteer Opportunities
There are many opportunities to volunteer at school. It is a great way to meet people, have fun, learn about the school
and provide input into the experience your child will have at school and in Vietnam. Please feel free to ask a member
of the Parent Teacher Group Committee for suggestions or contact our Community Service Representative who will give
you some ideas of how you can volunteer with some of the charities that the school supports.
40
10. Miscellaneous
10.1 Mascot
10.2 FOBISIA
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
41
The British International School is delighted to be a member school of FOBISIA, Federation of British International
Schools in Asia (FOBISIA). This is a prestigious federation of 30 of the best British international schools in the region.
All member schools are closely scrutinised on application and have to meet an extensive range of quality standards in
order to be accepted into the group and to retain membership.
The FOBISIA Games is the best known and perhaps most obvious benefit of FOBISIA membership. The successful
format for the games is unique amongst international schools and for the students who represent the school it is a
fantastic experience. Each year we enter teams into the Primary Games, the U13 Games and the U15 Games where they
compete against a group of 7 other FOBISIA schools with each school taking a turn to act as hosts.
However, FOBISIA is more than just the Games. Each year the very best musicians from the federation take part in a
Music Festival. This consists of a week of musical tuition and workshops culminating in a gala concert. Other FOBISIA
events for students include collaboration over community service projects, a Model United Nations conference, a
primary Mathematics competition and a Drama Festival.
See: www.FOBISIA.org
10.3 Community Service
The British International School has a core commitment to the all-round (holistic) development of each child. Through
a range of planned community service and fund raising activities the school will provide appropriate opportunities
for the students to develop a respectful and caring sense of social responsibility towards other people and the
environment on both a local and global scale.
•The school believes that involving students in community service activities will assist in the development of the
following personal qualities:
•Social responsibility
•Care, kindness and compassion
•Respect and tolerance
•Leadership and problem solving skills
•Personal confidence
•Cultural understanding
•Humility
•Personal satisfaction and pride
•Self-esteem
Title
Surname
Email-Address
Mr
ALEXANDER
[email protected]
Mr
ARCH
[email protected]
Mrs
ASTLEY
[email protected]
Mr
BALL
[email protected]
Mr
BAO
[email protected]
Mr
BALLANTINE
[email protected]
Ms
BELLAOUI
[email protected]
Mr
BERGIN
[email protected]
Ms
BINNINGTON
[email protected]
Mr
BLAKE
[email protected]
Ms
BROWN
[email protected]
Mr
BROWNRIGG
[email protected]
Mr
CARTER
[email protected]
Mr
CHANDLER
[email protected]
Mr
CHURCH
[email protected]
Ms
CRAWLEY
[email protected]
Mr
CROWLEY
[email protected]
Mr
CULLEN
[email protected]
Mrs
CULLEN
[email protected]
Ms
Chau DUONG
[email protected]
Mr
DACE
[email protected]
Ms
DELEPORTE
[email protected]
Ms
DENNIS
[email protected]
Mrs
DOLAN
[email protected]
Mr
DRAKE
[email protected]
Mr
DUROK
[email protected]
Mr
DURRANT
[email protected]
Mr
DYER
[email protected]
Ms
EASTER
[email protected]
Mrs
EASTWOOD
[email protected]
Mr
ENGLISH
[email protected]
Mr
ESSERY
[email protected]
Mr
GAMWELL
[email protected]
Ms
GILLESPIE
[email protected]
Mrs
GILLMORE
[email protected]
Mr
GILLMORE
[email protected]
Mr
GOULDING
[email protected]
Ms
GRIFFITHS
[email protected]
Mrs
HADLEY
[email protected]
Mr
HADLEY
[email protected]
Mrs
HAMBLIN
[email protected]
Mr
HARPER
[email protected]
Mrs
HOLMYARD
[email protected]
Miss
HORNE
[email protected]
Mr
HORSFIELD
[email protected]
Mr
JACQUES
[email protected]
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
10.4 Teacher Contact List
42
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
43
Miss
JAMES
[email protected]
Mrs
KIM
[email protected]
Ms
KING
[email protected]
Ms
LANYON-JONES
[email protected]
Ms
LIU
[email protected]
Mr
LUKE
[email protected]
Mrs
LUKE
[email protected]
Ms
MORRISON
[email protected]
Ms
MEACHAM
[email protected]
Ms
MOULD
[email protected]
Ms
MORLEY
[email protected]
Mr
MOORE
[email protected]
Mrs
Mai LE
[email protected]
Mr
MARSH
[email protected]
Mr
MCGRAW
[email protected]
Ms
O'NEILL
[email protected]
Mr
PATERSON
[email protected]
Mr
PERERA
[email protected]
Mr
POLLICUTT
[email protected]
Mr
ROBERTS
[email protected]
Mr
SILLITOE
[email protected]
Ms
SARGENT
[email protected]
Mr
SCOTT
[email protected]
Mr
SORIANO
[email protected]
Mr
SHAH
[email protected]
Ms
SHEPPARD
[email protected]
Mr
SHERRY
[email protected]
Ms
SINKER
[email protected]
Ms
TIEMANN
[email protected]
Ms
TINGEY
[email protected]
Mr
TURNER
[email protected]
Ms
WAGSTAFF
[email protected]
Mr
WALL
[email protected]
Mr
WILLIS
[email protected]
Mrs
WILSON
[email protected]
Mr
WILSON
[email protected]
Ms
XIE
[email protected]
Mr
YORK-SMITH
[email protected]
Email Protocol – parents are welcome to make contact with senior teachers or their child’s form or subject teacher.
Please remember that an email will not be effective in dealing with an issue that requires discussion. Think of it as
a way of conveying information or as a memo to set up a meeting.
Reception
Mrs. Susan Wilson
Phone: (848) 3744 2335 & Ext: 111
Email: [email protected]
PA to Richard Dyer
Ms. Huong Do
Phone: (848) 3744 2335 & Ext: 112
Email: [email protected]
PA to Karen Eastwood & Peter Gillmore
Ms. Hanh Nguyen
Phone: (848) 3744 2335 & Ext: 120
Email: [email protected]
Secondary Education Secretary
Miss Linh Tran
Phone: (848) 3744 2335 & Ext: 246
Email: [email protected]
Facilities Manager
Ms. Phuong Viet Nguyen
Phone: (848) 3744 2335 & Ext: 241
Email: [email protected]
Cashier
Miss Van Nguyen
Phone: (848) 3744 2335 & Ext: 206
Email: [email protected]
Nurse
Ms. Love Grace Condes
Phone: (848) 3744 2335 & Ext: 222
Email: [email protected]
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
10.5 Main Contacts
44
10.6 Useful information
SIMS Learning Gateway
http://slg.bisvietnam.com/bisv
Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA)
www.FOBISIA.org
CIE - Cambridge International Examinations
www.cie.org.uk
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
45
International Baccalaureate Organisation
www.ibo.org
Centre for Evaluation & Monitoring
www.cemcentre.org
Duke of Edinburgh International Award
www.intaward.org
CIS – Council of International Schools
www.cois.org
National Curriculum for England
http://curriculum.qcda.gov.uk/
British Consulate General
25 Le Duan St., District 1, HCMC
Tel: +84 (8) 38298433 Fax: +84 (8) 38221971
Email: [email protected]
http://ukinvietnam.fco.gov.uk
British Business Group Vietnam (BBGV)
Ground Floor, 25 Le Duan St., District 1, HCMC
Tel: +84 (8) 38298430 Fax: +84 (8) 38225172
Email: [email protected]
www.bbgv.org
British Council
25 Le Duan St., District 1, HCMC
Tel: +84 (8) 38232862 Fax: +84 (8) 38232861
Email: [email protected]
www.britishcouncil.org/vietnam
Medical Facilities
There are several quality medical and dental facilities in Ho Chi Minh City. Details can be found in AsiaLife and The
Word magazines, copies of which are available at all BIS campuses.
International Ladies in Vietnam
A club for women living in Ho Chi Minh City, ILV has more than 400 members from 45 countries. Meets every Thursday
morning for coffee and also runs a wide range of activities for women to join. There is more information on their website www.ilvietnam.com. Membership of the club includes a book which lists information on life in HCMC and listings
of shops, medical facilities, embassy addresses etc.
An Phu Neighbours Website
A Google group for anybody living in District 2. Very useful for answering questions about where to find things in HCMC
and keeping up to date with events going on in the neighbourhood.
The Word and Asia Life Magazine
Two free magazines distributed each month in Ho Chi Minh City and available at the Secondary Reception desk as well
as some coffee shops. Both have excellent listings in the back which include shops, restaurants, hotels, apartments,
medical facilities and so on.
Xin Chao Magazine
Free magazines distributed each month in Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Noi and available at the Secondary Reception desk
as well as some Korean business places and shops.
신짜오 베트남 격주간지
매 격주 발행하여 호치민 및 하노이에 배포되는 교민 잡지로, BIS 세컨더리 리셉션에 준비되어
있습니다. 교민생활에 도움이 되는 다양한 주제 및 유용한 정보로 알차게 구성이 되어 있으며
뒷부분에는 옐로우페이지가 기재되어 있어 주요 레스토랑, 상가, 호텔, 아파트및 의료센터등에 대한
정보를 취하실 수 있습니다.
SECONDARY PARENT HANDBOOK
British Embassy
Central Building, 31 Hai Ba Trung St., Hanoi
Tel: +84 (4) 39360500 Fax: +84 (4) 39360561
Email: [email protected]
http://ukinvietnam.fco.gov.uk
46

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2013-09-06 Start of year

21 November 2014 Dear Parents, Colleagues

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