Building Skills for Life, Not Just School

Social Emotional Learning

Why SEL Matters for Every Student

At Dynamics International School (DIS), we believe that academic learning is only part of a child’s journey. Social emotional skills are critical for success, whether in school, at home, or in future careers. Research consistently shows that children with strong SEL competencies perform better academically, experience greater emotional wellbeing, and develop stronger interpersonal skills. These benefits extend to all students, whether neurodiverse or not.

A Whole-Child Approach Supported by a Registered Psychologist

SEL is fully embedded in our weekly timetable and delivered by a registered psychologist who works collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and families. This ensures that social emotional development is not an isolated module but part of a student’s personal learning journey.

Personal Learning Goals (PLGs): Guiding Growth Beyond Academics

At DIS, every learner works toward their own Personal Learning Goals. These PLGs shape our SEL curriculum. Students receive targeted support and feedback in each area, promoting self-awareness, social understanding, ethical decision-making, and emotional resilience. Our PLGs are:

Adaptable
Communicator
Collaborator
Empathetic
Ethical
Resilient
Respectful
Thinker

Our Evidence-Based Approach to SEL

Our SEL programme is built on well-established frameworks and aligns with global research that affirms the importance of emotional regulation, self-advocacy, and social connection. At DIS:

Students engage in structured lessons, group discussions, and reflective activities led by our psychologist.
Strategies are explicitly taught and reinforced in class, therapy sessions, and daily routines.
Progress is tracked using observable goals, ensuring student growth is measurable and meaningful.

How SEL Supports Neurodiverse Learners

Neurodiverse learners often face unique social and emotional challenges, such as navigating sensory overload, forming friendships, or advocating for the support they need. Our SEL model is tailored to their needs:

We incorporate visual tools, story-based learning, and scaffolded conversations to build emotional vocabulary and social understanding.
Strategies taught during SEL sessions are reinforced in therapy and classroom settings through coaching and role-play.
We actively work to create peer cultures where difference is celebrated and every student feels valued and included.

The DIS Advantage for Families Seeking Holistic Support

Integrated delivery, led by a registered psychologist who collaborates in-person with teachers and therapists
PLG-aligned SEL learning, where academic goals exist alongside character development
Evidence-based strategies proven to reduce anxiety, improve focus, and boost peer relationships
A culture that values learning, wellbeing, and belonging equally

At DIS, we do not just teach academics. We nurture the whole learner, guided by the Personal Learning Goals and supported through expertly designed SEL. Every student leaves not just smarter, but stronger, kinder, and more resilient.

Shauqi is an experienced educator with a passion for helping students with diverse learning needs thrive. At DIS, he teaches the Functional Curriculum, guiding learners in building practical life skills alongside their academic and therapeutic goals. He works closely with teachers and therapists to ensure each child receives personalised support in a safe and inclusive environment.

His experience includes roles at Rainbow Centre in Singapore and Blackwood Outdoor Specialist School in Australia, where he supported students with complex needs through tailored learning strategies. Shauqi also founded the Environmental Learning Initiative and previously worked with ACRES Singapore to design educational programmes that nurture empathy and responsibility. With a degree in Outdoor Education from La Trobe University, he brings creativity, resilience, and a strengths-based approach to every classroom.

Education

Bachelor of Outdoor Education, La Trobe University
Diploma in Journalism, British College of Journalism

Samantha is a passionate educator dedicated to nurturing early literacy and holistic development in young learners. She has extensive experience working with children across mainstream and special education settings, with a particular focus on supporting students with autism, ADHD, global developmental delays, and speech and language challenges.

At DIS, Samantha provides early intervention and designs inclusive, engaging learning environments where every child can thrive. She is skilled in developing and delivering Individualised Education Plans (IEPs), planning group lessons that build language and social skills, and collaborating closely with therapists and parents to ensure consistent support.

Prior to joining DIS, Samantha taught at Living Sanctuary Kindergarten, where she led a K1 class of 25 children, integrating differentiated instruction and inquiry-based learning. She has also taught language and literacy enrichment, creative writing, and children’s literature classes, and conducted small-group reading support through the English Language Support Programme.

Guided by the belief that every child has unique strengths, Samantha strives to inspire a love for learning and to provide each student with the tools, confidence, and encouragement they need to succeed both academically and socially.

Education

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, Monash University
Diploma in Early Childhood Studies, Temasek Polytechnic, NIEC

Rona is a dedicated educator with over ten years of experience in teaching and a passionate advocate for individuals with special needs. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in LIACOM (Liberal Arts and Commerce) and further pursued her studies in Education. Her excellence was recognized when she was awarded The Most Outstanding Graduate upon completing her Diploma in Special Education.

With a strong foundation in Discrete Trial Teaching and the Behavior Modification Approach, Rona effectively applies these methods in both classroom and one-on-one settings. She also integrates Montessori methods into her teaching style, promoting hands-on learning, independence, and individualised instruction to meet the diverse needs of her students.

Rona views teaching learners with special needs and supporting their families as her lifelong vision and mission, that motivates her to work with dedication, empathy, and purpose.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Arts and Sciences in LIACOM with concentration in English and Marketing, University of San Jose Recoletos, Philippines
Diploma in Proficiency of Education, Cebu Technological University
Diploma in Special Education, Awarded Most Outstanding Graduate, Cebu Technological University

Priya brings over 15 years of dedicated experience in the disability sector, specialising in early intervention and inclusive education. She is extensively trained in a range of evidence-based early intervention modalities, including Routine-Based Intervention, Activity-Based Intervention, ECHO, and the Collaborative Intervention Model.

A strong advocate of family-centred practices and the Whole Child Approach, Priya has worked closely with families to ensure holistic support for children’s developmental needs. Her professional collaborations span various organisations, including the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) and the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), reflecting her commitment to advancing quality services in the sector.

Priya’s solid academic and professional foundation further strengthens her practice. She has further enhanced her leadership and mentoring skills through Mentor Coaching and The Key Worker Workshop.

With her deep knowledge, compassionate approach, and strong belief in collaborative partnerships, Priya continues to make a lasting impact in the lives of children with diverse needs and their families.

Education

Bachelor of Arts English Language and Literature Studies
Advanced Diploma in Early Childhood Intervention (Special Needs)
Ngee Ann Polytechnic Certificate in Special Education
Flinders Diploma in Psychology
EIPIC Preparatory Programme for Teachers (Multiple Disability)
Certificate in Autism

Precious Nakpil-Lai is an experienced educator with over 25 years in teaching and supporting children with diverse learning and developmental needs. She has a strong foundation in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and has taught English, Music, Speech and Drama, and Art. At Dynamics, she previously served as an ABA assistant and subject teacher, and currently works in the Early Intervention Programme for children aged 3 to 6. She also conducts Art Therapy sessions designed for children with special needs, combining her passion for education with her creativity as a prolific artist and certified Art Therapy Practitioner.

Holding a Master’s degree in Education, Precious is committed to evidence-based practices and continuous professional development. She actively seeks the latest strategies in instruction and behaviour management, ensuring her students receive the highest quality support. Her teaching blends skill-building with creative expression, inspiring children to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education
Master of Arts in Education (Major in Special Education), University of the Philippines
Certified Autism Specialist-IBCCES
Art Therapy Practitioner
Certificate in Basic Sign Language, Philippines Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
TESOL Certification (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), International TESOL Accreditation Authority

Teacher Patrice is our dedicated Speech and Language Therapy Assistant at DIS, leading social skills classes and helping students strengthen their communication, speech, and language abilities. With over eight years’ experience in clinical and school settings, she has a passion for working with pediatric and adolescent learners, especially those who are neurodiverse.

Working closely with our AHPC-registered therapists, Teacher Pat ensures every session is engaging, individualised, and goal-driven. She is also on the path to becoming an AHPC-registered professional herself.

For Teacher Pat, nothing is more rewarding than seeing a student speak a new word, join a conversation, or radiate new confidence. She is a committed advocate for helping every child reach their fullest communicative potential, one word and one conversation at a time.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Speech and Language Pathology, Cebu Doctors’ University
PROMPT Level 1 Trained-Therapist
Developmental Play Level 1 Trained-Therapist

MC is the Head of Therapy Support Services and the Early Intervention Programme at Dynamics. A Special Education professional with over 15 years of experience, she has worked with students from preschool to secondary levels, supporting a wide range of learning and developmental needs.

Her expertise includes IEP goal setting, differentiated instruction, behaviour management (ABA Trained), and skills-based training. She is experienced in communication supports such as PECS and AAC tools (e.g., Proloquo2Go), and is also trained in DIR Floortime approach. Certified in First Aid and CPR for infants and children, MC is additionally accredited as a Certified Autism Specialist by IBCCES.

In her leadership role, she works closely with teachers and therapists to align therapy recommendations with students’ IEP goals. MC ensures smooth referrals and priority access to therapy support, empowering students to succeed in class and achieve their fullest potential.

Education

Master of Arts in Education, Major in Special Education, University of the Philippines and Miriam College Graduate School
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, De La Salle University
Bachelor of Science, Major in Nursing (36 units), Arellano University Philippines – Alderson Broaddus University West Virginia, USA
Certified Autism Specialist – accredited by International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards

Kaylene is an experienced educator with a Bachelor’s degree in Special Needs Education. She currently serves as an early years Homeroom Teacher at DIS, where she is dedicated to supporting each child’s growth, development, and confidence. Prior to this role, Kaylene gained valuable experience in the Dynamics Early Intervention Programme, working closely with young children to support early learning and developmental milestones. She believes that every child has the potential to thrive when provided with the right guidance, encouragement, and opportunities. Kaylene is passionate about creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where children feel valued, inspired, and empowered to explore, learn, and reach their full potential.

Education

Bachelor of Special Needs Education, Mariano Marcos State University

Juliette is an Occupational Therapist Assistant and Teacher Assistant at DIS. She holds a French State Diploma in Occupational Therapy from the University Hospital of Toulouse, France. Since graduating in 2020, she has worked in various settings in France, including adult obesity support, neurorehabilitation for people with brain injuries, and a vocational integration centre for adults and young adults with diverse physical, psychological, and cognitive disabilities. She also completed multiple placements focused on children with specific needs. Known for her creativity and her ability to keep a “child’s spirit” alive, Juliette designs playful and imaginative activities with the right level of challenge. She believes that when children feel safe, engaged, and supported in a stimulating environment, they are more motivated to participate and achieve their potential in their therapy and learning.

Education

State Diploma in Occupational Therapy, Institute of Occupational Therapy, Toulouse University Hospital

Alesha holds a Master’s degree in Education (Special Education) and has nine years of teaching experience, including five years in early childhood education and four years at Dynamics International School. At Dynamics, she serves as Head of the International Primary Curriculum and Mathematics and as Lead Teacher, overseeing curriculum development, teacher mentoring, and instructional practice. With expertise in differentiated instruction and inclusive pedagogy, Alesha is committed to fostering academic achievement, resilience, and confidence in students while collaborating with colleagues and parents to maintain a supportive, high-quality learning environment.

Education

Master of Education (Special Education), Nanyang Technological University
Bachelor of Science (Banking and Finance), University of London
Professional Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education, KLCC
Diploma in Civil Structural Engineering, Singapore Polytechnic

Marian is an Occupational Therapy Assistant with over two years of experience, specialising in supporting children with special needs. She holds a degree in Occupational Therapy from Perdana University, Malaysia, and has received training in Ayres Sensory Integration (CLASI). Before working at DIS, Marian worked with children ranging in age from 1 to 18 years old in both educational and clinical settings, supporting them in areas such as self-regulation, school participation, self-help skills, and many more. Marian firmly believes that all children have the potential to thrive when given the right support and the opportunity to flourish.

Education

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy, Perdana University
Certification in Ayres Sensory Integration (CLASI)

Denis Cadogan is the Grade 7 and 8 homeroom teacher, specialising in the subject of English and also teaching Speech & Drama. He holds a Media and Broadcasting degree from the University of Westminster, London, as well as a Masters in Teaching English to Multi-lingual learners from Moreland University, Washington, DC. Prior to working at DIS, he had previously been a private courses and YL trainer with the British Council Singapore, and has previously worked in various education roles and with a range of students in a number of countries including Japan, China, Australia and New Zealand. He believes in student-centred approaches and encourages student focus and independence, presenting an approachable presence to students of all ages. He likes to extend this in a classroom setting in giving each participant a chance to shine.

Education

Masters in Teaching Multi-lingual Students, Moreland University (USA)
Bachelor of Arts in Media and broadcasting, University of Westminster (UK)
CELTA adult teaching certification (UCC, EU)

Yvonne is a dedicated educator with 16 years of experience in the education sector, including 10 years in special education. She has worked extensively with children from Primary 1 to Primary 5, tailoring her teaching to meet the diverse needs and abilities of each learner. Passionate about empowering students, Yvonne creates inclusive, engaging, and supportive learning environments where every child feels valued and encouraged to succeed. Her approach combines evidence-based strategies with creative, hands-on activities to make learning meaningful and enjoyable. Yvonne believes in working closely with families, colleagues, therapists and the wider community to foster strong partnerships that support holistic student development. Yvonne believes that every child possesses unique strengths and potential, and she is committed to helping them thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Education

Diploma in Special Education, National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University
Certificate in Autism, Autism Resource Centre (Singapore)
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, SIM University

Neelam brings more than twenty-five years of experience in the Education sector, teaching children across various groups from Nursery to Secondary levels, including those with neurodivergent capabilities. She co-teaches English, Mathematics and Science across Grades 2 to 8 in DIS.

Neelam has experience working in leading international schools, with various therapists and parents to provide children with the requisite support to help them maximise their learning. Her dedication to the craft of teaching has helped her to enable students to bloom into confident, dynamic and driven individuals.

By imparting her knowledge and experience in the areas of teaching and parenting, she is able to create visible, long-lasting impact, based on the good working relations she develops with parents. She is a firm believer that every child is unique in their own way, and can be nurtured to bring out their best potential in their pursuits across various areas.

Education

Master of Arts in Literature, Delhi University
Bachelor of Arts, Delhi University
WSQ Diploma in Early Childhood Education, SEED Institute (Singapore)

Divya is the Head of Functional Curriculum and Lead Special Education Teacher at DIS, with over 11 years’ experience in international and private education. She has worked extensively with neurodiverse learners from Year 2 to Year 9, supporting their development in academics, IMYC/IPC curricula, and social-emotional learning. Her career began as a tuition teacher, and her passion for inclusive education has shaped her approach to meeting the individual needs of each student. She is committed to creating an empowering environment that nurtures both academic achievement and emotional well-being. While holding a Certificate in Special Education, Divya is currently pursuing a Master’s in Special and Inclusive Education, further enhancing her expertise in strategies and interventions for diverse learners. She believes in fostering confidence, independence, and a love of learning, ensuring students feel supported and capable of reaching their full potential.

Education

Master’s in Special and Inclusive Education, University of Newcastle (pursuing)
Graduate Certificate in Special and Inclusive Education, University of Newcastle (pursuing)
Certificate in Special Education, College of Allied Educators
Bachelor of Science in Banking and Finance, University of London

Ms. Poh Lin has over eight years of experience working with children from nursery to Primary 6, including those with special needs, across both Singapore and Malaysia.

Her passion for working with children with diverse needs developed through her years of hands-on experience in inclusive classrooms. She finds joy in growing alongside her students, believing that every child can learn and thrive when supported at their own pace and in a way that suits their learning style.

Ms. Poh Lin is experienced in facilitating inquiry-based learning through the primary curriculum, guiding students to explore across various subjects through questioning, investigation, and reflection. She values meaningful, student-led learning experiences that foster curiosity, confidence, and independence.

She also hopes to see education become more inclusive, with early intervention support more accessible to families in the wider community.

Education

Bachelor of Psychology (Hons), International Medical University
Master’s in Educational Psychology, University of Malaya (pursuing)

Dennis is a Special Education Teacher with over three years of experience supporting neurodiverse individuals across ages of 2 to 22, backed by a solid foundation in behavioral and therapeutic support across classrooms and therapy settings. At DIS, he is a homeroom teacher for Grades 3 and 4 and teaches Mathematics and Science. His areas of specialisation includes working with neurodivergent students through individualised, student-centred approaches that emphasise emotional safety, communication, and consistency. With professional experience in behavioral therapy, child-centred interventions, and inclusion support, he believes in fostering strong relationships, collaborating closely with families, and honouring each student’s dignity and potential.

Education

Bachelors Degree (Honours) in Psychological Science, Flinders-HELP University

Nikko is a passionate international educator and senior school leader with over 20 years of experience, including a decade in international schools and programmes across Singapore and Taiwan. As Deputy Head of School, she brings expertise in international curriculum, school transformation, EduTrust/ERF quality assurance, and Study Abroad initiatives. A lifelong learner herself, Nikko actively explores global curricula and international learning opportunities to help students discover their passions and thrive. Her experience includes implementing IB, Cambridge and Common Core programmes, as well as organising unique global learning experiences in the USA, UK, Canada, Russia, Tanzania, and Taiwan. At the heart of Nikko’s educational philosophy is a strong belief in nurturing each student’s potential in a supportive and inspiring school environment.

Education

PhD in Education, University of Exeter (UK)
Master of Science in Educational Research, University of Exeter (UK)
Master of Science in TESOL, Secondary Education and Teaching, University of Stirling (Scotland)

Ann brings over 25 years of global leadership experience across education, public policy, and nonprofit sectors. As Head of School and CEO of Dynamics Group of Companies, she leads a therapy-integrated education ecosystem supporting neurodiverse learners. Previously, she was CEO of a K-12 international school in Singapore and advised the Varkey Foundation, the philanthropic arm of GEMS Education. Ann held senior roles in the Obama Administration and the U.S. Senate, and has worked across Washington DC, Australia, Singapore, and the Philippines in education, law, politics, and social impact. Known for her systems thinking and passion for inclusive education, Ann blends strategic insight with a deeply personal commitment to building schools where every learner’s “superpower” is nurtured and celebrated.

Education

Master of Science in Applied Neuroscience (Dean’s Award), King’s College London (UK)
Master of Counseling, Monash University (AUS) (pursuing)
Senior Executive Fellow, Harvard Kennedy School (USA)
Juris Doctor, Washburn University School of Law (USA)
Bachelor of Arts in History, University of Iowa (USA)

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Social Emotional Learning

Why SEL Matters for Every Student

How SEL Supports Neurodiverse Learners

The DIS Advantage for Families Seeking Holistic Support

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