FAQ for Dynamics International School
1. Why choose Dynamics International School? The uniqueness of Dynamics International School is reflected through its inclusivity and diversity of students and staff. Dynamics International School is an inclusive school that supports the integration of typically developing students and of those with special educational needs. We have a mainstream and special needs division to cater to the varying learning profiles of students. We are a leading international school located on Orchard Road. We support learning by creating positive experiences for students to achieve significant academic gains and increased self-confidence. At Dynamics International School, we believe in creating a holistic learning environment with an approach for life-long learning for we believe that everyone can learn and deserves to be taught in a way that they can learn best. Education crosses boundaries, and learners in Dynamics International School are groomed to be global citizens of the world. We also have a strong team of trained and dedicated teachers, who put in a tremendous amount of effort in supporting our students in all of their successes. Our teachers will work closely with the students to facilitate learning, beyond the classroom. We have implemented the British National Curriculum and International Primary Curriculum in the most effective way of ensuring that our curriculum framework is truly inclusive and accessible to children and young people with exceptionally diverse needs. Our teachers and academic team are involved in planning and organizing the curriculum, so that all students take part in activities that are meaningful for them and address learning objectives that are relevant and challenging for them. Dynamics International School’s motto is “Vitae Discimus”, which means learn for life. At Dynamics students don’t just learn for academic reasons, they learn for life. 2. What kind of extra-curricular activities are available at Dynamics International School? Co-curricular activities have been widely known to complement students’ learning at school. Dynamics International School offers a wide range of Co-Curricular activities for our students. These include Music lessons, Lego, Language Arts as well as Soccer. As a school that focuses on the development of a child, DIS believes in the importance of supporting children with extra-curricular activities that in turn support the intellectual, emotional, social and physical development of every student. With children integrating with one another, this fosters lasting friendships and helps develop relationship skills. It also provides students with opportunities to be active in their communities and to take their learning beyond the classroom. This helps them do better academically and be prepared for the next stage of their lives. At Dynamics International School, we strongly believe that co-curricular activities are significant to a student’s holistic development. 3. How do I apply to Dynamics International School? The admissions criteria and process for Dynamics International School has been designed to facilitate understanding by our team based on student’s current and potential abilities as well as their needs. General information, outlining the entrance requirements according to the specific grades can be found on our website. Upon confirmation that the student meets the admission criteria, parents will go through a 3-step process to complete the admission process. Firstly, parents would need to set up an interview and school tour with the Head of School. It is essential that parents send us copies of their child’s reports and documents. They will also be required to complete a child history questionnaire, required by the school. Following this, the head of school will follow up with parents within 2 working days. Should the student require a trial to assess his level in a classroom, the school will arrange for that. It is also essential that the students undergo an internal assessment or provide the school with recent academic reports that demonstrates adequate performance. Upon confirmation of the trial with the head of school, the educational psychologists will need to complete a screening assessment prior to the commencement of the trial. The trials at Dynamics International School are planned for two consecutive days between 9am to 12pm each day. At the end of this process, a formal meeting will be organized with parents to discuss observations and decision. Following this meeting, parents can then register and enroll the child into the school. 4. What makes you stand out from other schools? Dynamics International School is a unique private school. Being here provides students with multiple learning opportunities and is a reflection of various positive experiences. As a small school our uniqueness is creating a nurturing environment that your child can accelerate their learning and develop all-rounded individuals. Firstly, Dynamics International School utilizes the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and British National Curriculum that is comprehensive and holistic. This provides every student with a universal learning experience. In addition, our small class sizes allow more individualized support for students, including social and emotional support given the teacher to student ratio of 1:6. This also develops greater student –teacher rapport. This also allows students and their families to feel like their part of a community. Next, Dynamics International School provides students with additional support. We provide easy accessibility to additional services with our team of experts (Speech therapists, Occupational therapists, and Educational therapists). This may be done via pull out sessions or via in-class support. The level of support a student requires will be determined through our differentiated tiers system available for our students. Lastly, Dynamics International School also has an affordable fee structure that provides parents with flexibility of payments. As a small school our uniqueness is creating a nurturing environment so that your child can accelerate their learning and develop into all-rounded individuals. 5. What are your health and safety protocols for children and teachers alike? Dynamics International School follows strict health and safety guidelines to protect our students and teachers. Sanitizers are placed in all our classrooms, and in various parts of the school. Our school is cleaned and disinfected daily before and after school to ensure a safe and clean environment. This includes wiping the surfaces of student tables and chairs.
The Role of Parents in Supporting Their Child’s Education: Nurturing Lifelong Learning
Parents play a crucial role in their child’s education, serving as their first and most influential teachers. When parents actively engage in their child’s learning journey, they create a strong foundation for academic success and holistic development. In this blog post, we will explore the significant role parents play in supporting their child’s education. We will discuss the benefits of parental involvement, provide practical strategies for fostering a positive home-learning environment, and highlight the importance of collaboration between parents and educators. The Benefits of Parental Involvement: Improved academic performance: Research consistently demonstrates that parental involvement positively impacts students’ academic achievement. When parents actively participate in their child’s education, it creates a supportive environment that encourages learning and motivates students to excel. Enhanced social and emotional well-being: Parental involvement fosters a sense of belonging, security, and emotional support in children. This contributes to their overall social and emotional well-being, leading to improved mental health, self-esteem, and resilience. Strengthened parent-child relationship: Engaging in their child’s education strengthens the bond between parents and children. It provides opportunities for quality time, open communication, and shared experiences, fostering a deeper connection between parents and their child. Increased motivation and enthusiasm for learning: When parents show an active interest in their child’s education, it sends a powerful message that learning is valuable and worthwhile. This enthusiasm is contagious and encourages children to approach their studies with passion and curiosity. Development of lifelong learning habits: Parental involvement instills in children a lifelong love for learning. When parents emphasize the importance of education and model curiosity and a growth mindset, children are more likely to develop a thirst for knowledge that extends beyond the classroom. Strategies for Supporting Your Child’s Education: Establish a positive home-learning environment: Create a dedicated space for studying, provide necessary learning resources, and establish consistent routines that prioritize education. Encourage a quiet and distraction-free environment to foster focus and concentration. Communicate and collaborate with teachers: Establish open lines of communication with your child’s teachers. Attend parent-teacher conferences, stay informed about curriculum and assignments, and proactively seek updates on your child’s progress. Collaborate with teachers to support your child’s learning goals. Encourage regular reading habits: Foster a love for reading by providing a variety of books and reading materials that cater to your child’s interests and reading level. Set aside dedicated time for reading, engage in discussions about books, and model reading as a pleasurable activity. Promote a growth mindset: Teach your child the value of effort, resilience, and the belief that abilities can be developed through practice and hard work. Encourage them to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and persist in the face of setbacks. Support homework and assignments: Show interest in your child’s homework and assignments. Provide guidance and assistance when needed, but also encourage independence and problem-solving skills. Encourage them to manage their time effectively and break tasks into manageable chunks. Engage in meaningful conversations: Initiate conversations about your child’s school experiences, interests, and goals. Actively listen to their thoughts and ideas, and encourage them to express themselves. Engage in discussions that promote critical thinking, curiosity, and intellectual growth. Emphasize the value of education beyond academics: Highlight the importance of lifelong learning and the diverse opportunities education can offer. Expose your child to various cultural experiences, hobbies, and extracurricular activities that foster a well-rounded education. Be a positive role model: Demonstrate a genuine passion for learning by engaging in your own educational pursuits. Let your child see you reading, exploring new interests, and pursuing personal growth. By modeling a positive attitude towards learning, you inspire and motivate your child to follow suit.
Dynamics International School: The Premier Inclusive Education Provider in Singapore
In the competitive landscape of special needs education in Singapore, Dynamics International School (DIS) emerges as a leader, providing a uniquely inclusive and supportive learning environment. Our commitment to personalized education and comprehensive support services sets us apart, ensuring that every child thrives and reaches their full potential. The Vision Behind DIS Dynamics International School was founded by Yael Sasson, a dedicated occupational therapist with a passion for helping children and families. Yael’s journey took a personal turn when her son, Benjamin, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of two. This experience drove her to create a holistic educational environment where children with diverse needs could receive the support they deserve. Yael established Dynamics Early Intervention Program (EIP) as a nurturing space where each child receives individualized attention and care. The success of this program led to the birth of Dynamics International School, a place where inclusivity and personalized education are at the forefront. “I believed that if I, as a mother, was struggling to find the right educational setting for Benjamin, surely there must be other parents who are facing similar dilemmas,” Yael said. Her personal and professional journey has significantly influenced the development and ethos of DIS, ensuring that every child’s potential is unlocked. What Sets DIS Apart? More Therapy Hours: At DIS, we understand that consistent therapeutic support is crucial for the development of children with special needs. We offer more hours of therapy than our competitors, ensuring that students receive the intensive, hands-on support they need to succeed. Individualized Support: Our approach to education is deeply personalized. Each student at DIS benefits from an individualized learning plan tailored to their unique strengths and challenges. This personalized attention helps students achieve their academic goals and develop essential life skills. High Teacher-to-Student Ratio: Our commitment to small class sizes allows for a higher ratio of teachers to students, providing more personalized attention and support. In our special support classes, the ratio is 1:4, and in mainstream classes, it is 1:8. This ensures that every student receives the guidance and assistance they need to excel. Affordable Fees: Despite offering more therapy hours and personalized support, our fees are significantly lower than those of our competitors. At $38,800 for special education support, DIS is more affordable compared to the average $55,000 charged by other special needs schools in Singapore. This affordability makes high-quality, inclusive education accessible to more families. Comprehensive Support Services At DIS, we integrate a range of specialized support services into our curriculum, providing a holistic approach to education. Our multidisciplinary team includes: Speech Therapists Occupational Therapists Behavioral Therapists Educational Therapists This comprehensive support ensures that students receive individualized care in all areas of development. The seamless integration of these therapy services within the school environment is a distinctive advantage of being part of the larger Dynamics Therapy Group. Inclusive Curriculum and Experiential Learning DIS follows the Cambridge curriculum and the International Primary Curriculum, which emphasize inquiry-based learning. Our curriculum is adaptable, allowing us to tailor educational content to suit students with special needs. This ensures that all students receive a high-quality education that is both inclusive and engaging. Experiential learning is a cornerstone of our approach. We incorporate outdoor learning trips and hands-on projects into our curriculum, making education an exciting and enjoyable experience. These activities help students apply their learning in real-world contexts, fostering a deeper understanding and love for learning. EduTrust Certification and International Student Acceptance Dynamics International School is proud to have earned EduTrust certification, which recognizes our commitment to providing high-quality education. This certification allows us to accept foreign students who require a student pass. We welcome international students to join our inclusive learning community and benefit from our exceptional educational and therapeutic support. Preparing for a Bright Future Dynamics International School is dedicated to preparing students for long-term success. Our upcoming expansion into secondary education is a testament to this commitment. The new secondary school grades will offer: Continued Personalized Attention: We will maintain our small class sizes and individualized learning plans, ensuring each student continues to receive the support they need. Leadership Development: Students will engage in leadership development programs and internal internships within the Dynamics Therapy Group, preparing them for future success. Holistic Education: Our curriculum will include more experiential learning opportunities, mentorship, and guidance to help students transition smoothly into young adulthood. The Story of Yael and Benjamin Yael Sasson’s dedication to special needs education is deeply personal. Her son, Benjamin, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at a young age. As a mother and an occupational therapist, Yael faced the challenge of finding the right educational setting for Benjamin. This personal experience inspired her to create Dynamics Early Intervention Program (EIP) and subsequently Dynamics International School. “Benjamin has so many fond memories from his time at Dynamics EIP. Most significantly, it’s the memories of the incredible team who collaborated with him. He’s still eagerly reconnecting with them to this day,” Yael shared. Thanks to the program’s effectiveness, Benjamin eventually ‘graduated’ from Dynamics EIP and successfully transitioned into a mainstream school. However, after spending a few years in a mainstream primary school, Yael realized that the educational setting might not cater to Benjamin’s unique needs. This realization led her to establish an international school with a mission to help every child flourish, no matter their abilities. “It was Benjamin’s unique challenges and our pursuit for the ideal learning environment that truly propelled us into establishing a school and creating programs to suit every child’s needs,” Yael said. The DIS Commitment to Inclusivity Our school’s mission is to ensure that no child is turned away. We are dedicated to creating pathways to success for every student, regardless of their abilities or challenges. This commitment to inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do. DIS is a Cambridge school that also follows the International Primary Curriculum for inquiry-based learning. Classes are intentionally kept small to allow for specialized attention and time for students to learn at their own pace. The curriculum can also
How to Choose the Right School in Singapore: A Parent’s Guide
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. With so many options available in Singapore, it’s crucial to evaluate schools based on key factors that influence your child’s education, growth, and well-being. Here’s a guide on what to look out for when selecting a school for your child. Check for Official Registration with SSG as an ERF School Why It MattersIn Singapore, private schools must be registered under the SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) Enhanced Registration Framework (ERF). This ensures they meet basic regulatory standards on governance, quality of provisions, and information transparency. How to VerifyYou can look up the school’s registration status on the SSG School Directory. Simply type the school’s name to confirm if it is a registered Private Education Institution. Look for Quality Assurance (EduTrust Certification) Why It MattersEduTrust is a certification scheme administered by the Committee for Private Education (CPE). Schools with EduTrust have undergone rigorous checks on academic processes, student welfare, and fiscal health. Having EduTrust signifies a higher level of quality assurance. How to VerifyThe SSG website lists current EduTrust-certified schools. You can cross-check there to see if a school’s certification is active and valid. Assess Whether Learning Support Is Available Why It MattersChildren learn differently. If your child needs extra coaching or faces specific learning challenges, a strong learning support department can make all the difference. Look for programs that address reading, writing, or numeracy difficulties, and find out if specialized educators or therapists are on staff. Check for Integrated Therapy Services Why It MattersIntegrated therapy services—such as Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Feeding Therapy, ABA, Educational Therapy, Psychological Counselling, and Social Skills Groups—help students who need additional support to thrive academically and socially. These services are especially crucial for children with diverse learning or developmental needs. Evaluate the Curriculum Why It MattersA well-recognized curriculum, such as Cambridge or the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), ensures international standards and smoother transitions if your child later moves schools or studies abroad. Focus on Results and Outcomes Why It MattersWhile academic results aren’t everything, they do reflect the school’s quality of teaching, curriculum, and support. Look for success stories, testimonials, and data on student progress over time. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for Special Needs Why It MattersFor children with special educational needs, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) outlines specific goals and interventions tailored to them. A school that offers this level of customization is more likely to help every student achieve their fullest potential. Consider Classroom Size Why It MattersSmall class sizes often mean more personalized attention. Teachers can address each student’s needs, track progress closely, and adapt teaching methods accordingly. This can be especially beneficial for children who need additional support. Adaptability to Each Child’s Needs Why It MattersBeyond just having a standard curriculum or therapy services, the real question is how well the school can adapt these services to suit individual students. Flexibility and willingness to modify teaching strategies can significantly influence a child’s educational journey. Other Factors to Consider Teacher Qualifications & Experience: Look for certified educators experienced in handling diverse learning needs. Facilities & Environment: Check if the school has a conducive learning environment, including well-equipped classrooms and therapy rooms. Location & Accessibility: A convenient location reduces travel fatigue and helps maintain consistent school attendance. Holistic Growth & Extracurriculars: Sports, arts, music, and other extracurricular programs can foster well-rounded development. How Dynamics International School Meets These Criteria Below is a quick-reference table showing how Dynamics International School aligns with each of the key considerations: Criteria Why It’s Important DIS Compliance Registered with SSG (ERF) Ensures regulatory compliance and governance standards Registered under ERF. EduTrust Certification Higher quality assurance on academic processes and student welfare Holds EduTrust certification, demonstrating high-quality academic and operational standards Comprehensive Learning Support Provides extra academic help for varied learning challenges Offers specialized learning support including reading, writing, numeracy, and more Integrated Therapy Services Supports children needing OT, Speech, Feeding, ABA, Educational Therapy, or Psychological Counselling Onsite therapy center provides seamless integration of therapies during the school day Recognized Curriculum Ensures your child receives an internationally accepted and rigorous academic framework Follows Cambridge & International Primary Curriculum (IPC); Registered Cambridge School Result-Oriented Approach Monitors student progress, measures growth, and adjusts teaching methods Regular assessments, transparent communication with parents, and data-driven teaching Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) Tailored learning for students with special educational needs Develops IEPs for students requiring additional support, ensuring personalized goals and strategies Small Class Sizes Allows for personalized attention and targeted instruction Maintains low student-teacher ratios for highly focused learning Adaptable to Each Child’s Needs Flexibility in instruction ensures children of different abilities can thrive Differentiated instruction, flexible seating, and individualized support strategies Experienced Faculty & Conducive Environment Qualified teachers and well-equipped facilities enhance student engagement and overall performance All teachers have a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree; staff trained in various educational and therapeutic approaches; modern facilities designed to accommodate a range of learning styles Good Governance Ensures the highest standards in education management Governance includes a Board of Directors, Academic Board, and Examination Board Final Thoughts Selecting the right school is a critical decision that affects your child’s academic success and overall well-being. By ensuring the school is properly accredited, offers strong learning support, provides integrated therapy services, and prioritizes small class sizes, parents can set their children up for success. Looking for a school that meets all these criteria? Visit Dynamics International School to learn more about our programs, support services, and how we can help your child thrive.
