Golden Gate American School (GGAS) is a private, coeducational international school located in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Established in 1996, GGAS caters to students from ages 2 to 18, offering an American curriculum alongside Khmer language and cultural studies. This blog post provides a neutral and objective overview of GGAS to help parents considering this school for their children.

Curriculum and Programs

GGAS follows the American curriculum from Early Years through Grade 12. This curriculum emphasizes core subjects like English, mathematics, science, and social studies, preparing students for further education in the United States or other international institutions. Additionally, GGAS is an authorized IB World School, offering the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for students in Grades 11 and 12. This rigorous program focuses on critical thinking, independent learning, and international mindedness.

Beyond academics, GGAS offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, performing arts clubs, and student government opportunities. These programs aim to develop well-rounded individuals with strong social and emotional skills.

Faculty and Staff

GGAS employs a team of international and Cambodian teachers. The school emphasizes ongoing professional development for its faculty, ensuring they stay current with the latest educational methodologies.

Facilities

GGAS operates three campuses across Phnom Penh, catering to different age groups. The campuses offer various facilities, including libraries, computer labs, science labs, and athletic fields. However, some online reviews have mentioned concerns regarding facilities at certain campuses. It’s recommended to schedule a school tour to get a firsthand impression.

Admissions and Fees

The admissions process at GGAS typically involves application forms, standardized testing, and teacher recommendations. Specific requirements may vary depending on the student’s age and grade level. Tuition fees at GGAS range from 13,200,000 Riels to 24,800,000 Riels per year (approximately $3,200 to $6,000 USD). New students can avail a 30% tuition discount, and additional scholarships are available for prepayment of fees.

Considerations for Parents

Here are some key factors for parents to consider when evaluating GGAS:

• Curriculum: Aligns the American curriculum and IB program with your child’s educational goals.
• School Community: Assess if the diverse student body aligns with your preferences.
• Facilities: Schedule a tour to assess the learning environment at each campus.
• Cost: Consider the tuition fees and potential scholarship opportunities.
• Online Reviews: While some reviews mention communication concerns and facility variations, it’s important to balance them with the school’s overall information.

Conclusion

Golden Gate American School offers an American curriculum with an IB Diploma program option in Phnom Penh. The school promotes a well-rounded education with extracurricular activities and Khmer language integration. Parents considering GGAS should carefully evaluate the curriculum, facilities, admissions process, and tuition fees to determine if it’s the right fit for their child’s educational needs.

The Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS) is a growing educational institution offering a blend of Canadian curriculum and international educational programs. This blog delves into the key aspects of CIS, including its curriculum, faculty, facilities, and student life, to provide a well-rounded view for prospective students and parents.

Curriculum:

CIS primarily follows the Alberta (Canada) curriculum, known for its focus on inquiry-based learning and fostering critical thinking skills. This curriculum is recognized globally and provides a strong foundation for further education. Additionally, CIS offers the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for senior high school students, preparing them for success at universities worldwide.

Faculty:

The faculty at CIS comprises certified and experienced educators, many recruited internationally. They are committed to fostering a positive and stimulating learning environment that caters to the diverse needs of the student body.

Facilities:

CIS boasts three campuses strategically located across Phnom Penh. The campuses feature modern facilities designed to enhance the learning experience. These include well-equipped classrooms, science labs, libraries, computer labs, and dedicated spaces for creative pursuits like art and music. The main campus on Diamond Island is particularly noteworthy for its expansive grounds, sports complex, swimming pool, and black-box theater.

Student Life:

CIS promotes a holistic approach to education, placing a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities alongside academics. Students can participate in various clubs and sports teams, fostering social interaction, teamwork, and personal development. The diverse student body, representing over 30 nationalities, provides a rich multicultural environment where students can learn from and celebrate different cultures.

Additional Considerations:

Language Programs: CIS offers a unique French Bilingual Program recognized by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Students can also opt for a Mandarin Bilingual Program, providing a valuable advantage in an increasingly globalized world.
Admissions: The admissions process at CIS is selective and typically involves standardized testing and interviews.
Fees: As a private international school, CIS tuition fees are higher than those of public schools in Cambodia.
Conclusion

The Canadian International School of Phnom Penh offers a compelling educational option for families seeking a Canadian-based curriculum with an international perspective. With its qualified faculty, modern facilities, and diverse student body, CIS strives to create a well-rounded learning environment that prepares students for academic success and global citizenship.

The Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS) is a well-established international school catering to students from nursery through grade 12. With a growing student body of nearly 1,000 and a reputation for academic excellence, CIS offers a compelling option for families seeking an international education in Cambodia’s capital city.

Curriculum and Programs

CIS follows the Alberta (Canada) curriculum, known for its focus on inquiry-based learning and well-rounded development. This curriculum is recognized internationally and provides a strong foundation for further education. Additionally, CIS is an authorized IB World School, offering the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for high school students. This rigorous program prepares students for success at universities around the world.

Multilingual Learning

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A distinguishing feature of CIS is its commitment to multilingual learning. All students engage in language courses, with a particular emphasis on English as the primary language of instruction. Beyond English, CIS offers a unique French Bilingual Program, endorsed by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs with its LabelFrancÉducation seal. Students in this program can achieve fluency in both English and French. CIS also offers a Mandarin Bilingual Program, providing students with the opportunity to develop proficiency in this increasingly important language.

Facilities and Resources

CIS boasts three centrally located campuses in Phnom Penh. The main campus, located on Koh Pich (Diamond Island), features modern facilities designed to foster creativity and innovation. This includes a well-equipped library, science labs, a black box theater, and dedicated art and maker spaces. The Bassac Garden City and Olympia City campuses cater to preschool-aged students and offer age-appropriate learning environments.

Beyond the Classroom

CIS recognizes the importance of a holistic education and provides a diverse range of extracurricular activities. Students can participate in sports teams, performing arts clubs, and academic competitions. The school also emphasizes social responsibility and encourages students to engage in community service projects.

Considering CIS

For families seeking an international education with a strong academic focus and a commitment to multilingualism, the Canadian International School of Phnom Penh is a serious contender. The school’s Alberta curriculum, IBDP authorization, and bilingual programs offer a well-rounded educational experience. Modern facilities, diverse extracurricular activities, and a focus on social responsibility further enhance the learning environment.

Here are some additional factors to consider:

Tuition fees: CIS tuition fees are comparable to other international schools in Phnom Penh.
Admissions process: CIS has a selective admissions process, and interested families should contact the school for more information.
School community: CIS boasts a diverse student body with over 30 nationalities represented.
Ultimately, the decision of whether CIS is the right fit for your family will depend on your individual needs and priorities.

The British International School of Phnom Penh (BISPP) stands out for its established reputation, strong academics, and focus on well-rounded student development.

BISPP is the first registered Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) center in Cambodia, offering a globally recognized curriculum from Kindergarten to Year 13 (ages 5-18). This internationally accepted curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning, preparing students for further education and beyond.

Academics at BISPP:

• British National Curriculum for Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): Play-based learning fosters early years development for pre-Kindergarten students.
• Key Stages 1 and 2: Core subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and History are delivered through a structured framework, assessed by British SATs and Checkpoint exams.
• Key Stages 3 and 4: Students choose from a range of IGCSE subjects, leading to the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Years 12 and 13.

Beyond academics, BISPP fosters holistic development through:

• Extensive extracurricular activities: Sports, music, drama, and leadership programs allow students to explore their talents and interests.
• Dedicated pastoral care: A strong support system ensures students’ well-being and academic progress.
• Diverse and inclusive community: BISPP welcomes students from over 50 nationalities, fostering intercultural understanding and global perspectives.

Facilities:

• Modern campus: Located in Phnom Penh’s Chbar Ampov district, the purpose-built campus features bright classrooms, science labs, a library, sports facilities, and a performing arts center.
• Technology integration: Interactive whiteboards, iPads, and digital learning platforms enhance the learning experience.

Admission and Fees:

• Selective admissions process: Entrance exams and assessments ensure students are placed in the appropriate academic level.
• Sliding scale fees: BISPP offers financial assistance to ensure accessibility for families of diverse backgrounds.

For families seeking an international education in Cambodia, BISPP offers a comprehensive and well-respected option. Its strong academics, focus on student development, and diverse community provide a solid foundation for students to thrive academically and personally.