A Sense of Belonging: Helping Expatriate Families Feel at Home in Singapore
Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, full of opportunities for growth and new experiences. For expatriate families, it is an opportunity to immerse in vibrant cultures, meet new people and explore a fresh environment.
At Holland International School, we understand the excitement and the potential challenges of this transition. With over 100 years of history, our school has cultivated an engaging environment that fosters happy, confident and competent learners. By incorporating local cultural elements into our curriculum, fostering a strong sense of community, and offering a variety of resources and co-curricular activities, we help our students and their families feel right at home in Singapore.
Understanding the Local Culture
Immersing oneself in the local culture is key to feeling connected in a new country. At Holland International School, we facilitate this transition by integrating local cultural elements into our school activities. Our Culture Week and International Day celebrations encourage students and their families to appreciate and engage with Singapore’s rich cultural landscape as well as cultures around the world. With interactive workshops and engaging activities, we offer a hands-on approach to learning about different traditions and customs. Students gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of not just their new environment, but the myriad nationalities they may encounter in a culturally-diverse country like Singapore.
Cultural immersion through IPC curriculum
Our International Primary Curriculum (IPC) themes also play a big part in cultural immersion. Through thematic units such as “Here and now, there and then”, students explore the concepts of heritage, home and host country. At the beginning of every school year, the unit “This Is Me” also encourages students to share about their home and family, helping them adapt to school and build a sense of belonging.
The IPC curriculum enables learners to engage with global content while making connections to their local area. Through diverse and meaningful engagements, they develop international-mindedness and learn to appreciate different viewpoints. This approach not only enriches their academic experience but also enhances their cultural awareness and empathy.
Building a Support Network
A supportive community is vital for any expatriate family adapting to a new country. Holland International School fosters a strong sense of community among students, parents and staff. School assemblies and activities provide excellent opportunities for parents to connect, share experiences and build lasting relationships. Holland International School also has an Advisory Council to facilitate open communication between parents, staff, the board of governors and the management team. Meeting at least once every two months, the council allows families to offer input on educational matters, helping them engage more deeply with the school community.