IGBIS Newsletter : February 2025

Congratulations to our Grade 8 student, Samantha Chua, who competed and received 3rd place in the Nationals Junior Fencing Championship 2025, being the youngest on the podium and is once again qualified to represent Malaysia in the upcoming international competitions. We are super proud of her!

Janet Powell

From the Elementary Principal

Simon Millward

‘All Things Elementary’

Often we are asked, in the PYP, what does assessment look like?

Assessment has certainly moved on from when I was in Elementary school. Gone are the days where you would only be assessed with a pen and paper assessment and the answers were either right or wrong. In January our Grade 3 and Grade 4 students embarked on their end-of-unit assessment. This was a culmination of many weeks of learning which resulted in an individual (G3) or group presentation (G4).

The Grade 3 students embarked on their personal inquiry into the human body. The students had been inquiring into the central idea: ‘Human bodies are made up of systems which need to be maintained for healthy functioning’. The students had researched the body systems and now they were curious about other health or body functions like sight or asthma which they had many questions about. Their research, their new understandings, what and how they shared this new knowledge were all assessed in their presentations. The teachers could then have conversations with the students as to what they did well and what areas they could improve.

The Grade 4 students underwent a slightly different process. The Grade 4 students were inquiring into the central idea, ‘Migration is a response to challenges, risks and opportunities’. For them they had to work in groups. This presented a different set of challenges. Whilst they still had to undergo research using their research skills (information literacy and media literacy) they had to work on their social skills (intrapersonal and interpersonal), communication skills (exchanging information) and their self management skills (organisation and states of mind). The students used what they had learned to present their ideas in new and different ways. For example one group created a play, whilst another created a puppet show to demonstrate what their new understandings were. Once again the students would receive feedback on what they did well and what areas they could improve.

Another important feature of a PYP education is the use of experiential opportunities to ignite interest, curiosity and generating questions. Recently our Grade 1 students embarked on a field trip to the MRT. They were just starting their ‘How the World Works’ unit of inquiry and the field trip was being used as a ‘provocation,’ a hook, to draw the students into the unit. Students were asked to find ‘simple machines’ (pulleys, levers, incline planes, wedges, screws and wheel and axles) in the real world around them. I can’t wait to see where they are going to take this inquiry.

PYP Art Exhibition

The 8th of January saw the opening of this year's PYP Art exhibition in the L2 MPR. Showcasing one artwork, each chosen by the students themselves, the exhibition boasted a wealth of talent and variety. The students chose the one artwork that showcased their best learning; not necessarily the best formal, final outcome. From patterns to portraiture, and sculpture to humorous collages there were many media forms to see and explore. It was clear to see the hard work and pride that every young artist achieved in Semester 1 and we are all excited to prepare for the End of Year final exhibition later in the year (date TBC).

ElIi Lawson

G4 Field Trip

On Monday 13 January, as part of their current unit of inquiry, the Grade 4 students embarked on a field trip to explore the effects of migration on communities, cultures, and individuals. Their first stop was the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur, one of the oldest and most significant Hindu temples in Malaysia. Here, students observed the temple's intricate carvings and vibrant rituals, gaining a deeper understanding of how the migration of different cultural groups has shaped the local religious practices and community life in Malaysia.

The students then visited the Guan Di Temple in Chinatown, another important cultural site, where they were introduced to the practices of Chinese immigrants, especially the influence of Taoism and the role of Guan Di as a protector of communities. This visit allowed the students to see how migration has contributed to the rich multicultural tapestry of Malaysia, with different groups maintaining their traditions while also adapting to their new environment. Finally, the group explored the National Museum, which provided a broader historical context to their learning, showcasing how migration throughout history has impacted the development of Malaysia's diverse cultural and social landscape. The trip gave students valuable insights into how migration shapes the identities and interactions of communities in both local and global contexts.

Ms Anna

G5 Field Trip

On 14 January 2025, Grade 5 students catapulted into their inquiry theme 'Energy' with a field trip to Petrosains Discovery Centre. What an amazing resource we have at our fingertips! Not only were the students highly engaged in the interactive stations, but the teachers were too.

Students were fascinated by ferrofluid, and the Coriolis effect, and their astonishment at the power of sound waves and air pressure was evident. We continue our exploration into 'How the World Works' to build our understanding of how energy may be transformed to suit our needs.

Zoe Eggleton

MRISA Arts

IGBIS Secondary Arts Students Shine at MRISA Arts Exchange in Vientiane

From January 16 to 18, 2025, 20 talented secondary students from IGBIS (Grades 6–12) participated in the MRISA Arts Exchange, hosted by Vientiane International School (VIS) in Laos. The trip was a perfect blend of cultural immersion, artistic exploration, and meaningful connections. With other participating schools UNIS, SSIS, PREM, KIS, HIS, and VIS.

The adventure began at 4 a.m. with an early morning departure flight to Bangkok. A brief layover offered just enough time to indulge in Thailand’s famous mango sticky rice before continuing to Vientiane. Upon arrival, the group was warmly welcomed by VIS representative Zach, but not before a quick detour to Dairy Queen for a sweet treat. The Ibis Hotel provided clean and comfortable accommodations, and students enjoyed their first dinner at a cozy Indian-style restaurant. The group explored Vientiane’s vibrant night market, where students picked up souvenirs and, of course, more ice cream. The city’s weather throughout the trip was delightful, adding to the overall experience.
The following morning began with a hearty breakfast before a short tuk-tuk-dodging ride to VIS. At the school gates, students were greeted by a lively student-staff band and a retro-themed festival banner. The welcoming atmosphere was further enhanced by a traditional lotus dance performance and the presence of student ambassadors.

The morning excursions were a cultural highlight. Half the group visited the awe-inspiring Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khouane Luang), marvelling at intricate sculptures and serene landscapes. The other group explored the Lao Art Museum, which showcased an extensive collection of woodcraft and paintings representing Laos’ diverse ethnic groups. Both trips left students inspired by the artistry and history they encountered.
Back at VIS, the students enjoyed lunch before diving into the first round of creative workshops. A wide range of activities catered to every artistic interest, including Art Mashup: Fusing Styles and Cultures, Retro Future Film, Retro Spoken Word, Hip Hop Dance, and Boogie Back in Time. Grade 9 student Arul proudly led a figure-drawing workshop, representing IGBIS with confidence and skill.

The evening socials were a magical affair as students showcased their talents with Angelina from IGBIS captivating the audience with her beautiful singing. The workshops and social events highlighted the students’ creativity, collaboration, and enthusiasm.
The final day featured more workshops, a stunning visual arts exhibition, and captivating performances. As the event concluded with group photos and heartfelt closing remarks, students reflected on the friendships they had formed and the artistic growth they experienced.

As always, the best part of the MRISA Arts Exchange was the opportunity to meet new lifelong friends. This trip was more than an art exchange—it was a celebration of creativity, culture, and community.

Sheena Kelly

Music Academy Recital

The IGBIS Instrumental Music Academy provides students with the opportunity to have individual or small group lessons with professional tutors to foster the development of skills and a love for playing music. On 23 January 2025, we celebrated the achievements of the students in the IGBIS Music Academy during our Semester 1 recital. Students of various ages, from Kindergarten to Grade 10, and at different musical levels, performed in front of their parents and classmates. Congratulations to all the performers who practised diligently to put on this recital. A big thank you goes to our music tutors—Miss Iko, Miss Wong, Miss Irma, and Mr. Joshua—for their dedication to helping the students reach their full potential. We can't wait to see you all back in April for the Semester 2 concert in the IGBIS theatre.

Hadewych Dujardin

Lunar New Year Assembly

On 24 January, our IGBIS community came together to celebrate the Lunar New Year with vibrant performances and cultural showcases. From captivating student performances to heartwarming moments of togetherness, the assembly was a wonderful reminder of the joy and diversity that unite us.

As we welcome the Year of the Snake, we reflect on the values that unite us - diversity, respect, and community, while embracing new opportunities that lie ahead.

Wishing everyone a prosperous year filled with good fortune, happiness, and health. Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Important Announcements

Parent Workshops

🌟February Parent Workshops Are Here!🌟

Join us for these engaging sessions designed to equip you with practical tips and valuable insights to support your child’s growth and learning. It’s also a great chance to connect with other parents in our community!

Check out the full February schedule and register here: https://sites.google.com/igbis.edu.my/pvo/workshops-events?authuser=0

New CP Partnership with Arizona State University

At IGBIS, education is about more than academics—it’s about empowering students to become compassionate global citizens and lifelong learners. Through high-quality teaching and learning, we create engaging, safe, and stimulating environments where curiosity, inquiry, and collaboration thrive.

This year, we’re proud to announce the addition of Arizona State University (ASU) to our IB Career-related Programme (CP), joining pathways in Art and Design, Engineering, Business, and Sports Management. We are the only IB World School in Malaysia with five CP pathways, combining IB rigour with university-level coursework to ensure our students graduate with real-world skills and access to global opportunities. Collaborations with institutions like Everton Football Club and FirstPoint USA provide unparalleled opportunities that inspire growth and success in every learner.

With vibrant events like the Sundowner Picnic, Christmas Bazaar, International Day and Social Night by PVO, IGBIS is a community that celebrates diversity and innovation. Together, we nurture a culture where students and teachers connect, explore, and inspire greatness every day.

This is IGBIS: a school where futures are empowered, and greatness is inspired.

Marketing Department

2025 IGBIS Summer School and Everton Summer Camp

Get ready for an unforgettable summer at IGBIS! This year, we’re bringing you not one but two exciting camps — IGBIS Summer School 2025 and the Everton Summer Camp, packed with even more opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun in a vibrant, inspiring environment.

Enrol in either camps, or both, and enjoy a 10% discount exclusively for IGBIS students. Scan the QR code to learn more and secure your spot today!

Marketing Department

We hope you’ve enjoyed this month’s highlights. Stay tuned for more exciting stories and updates next month!