Dive into the impactful journey of personalised support at International School Ho Chi Minh City American Academy as Dr Simon Camby, our Chief Education Officer, shares a touching anecdote illuminating the crucial role of relationships in fostering student success.

Last week, I had the pleasure of calling in at International School Ho Chi Minh City American Academy (ISHCMC-AA). Every time I visit, I learn more and more about the brilliant things that happen here. We spent time in and out of classrooms and witnessed rich learning – brass ensemble, art class, robotics, physics, math challenge… a normal day in the life of the school. 

 ISHCMC-AA is special in so many ways. Three things always stand out for me when visiting: 

  1. Student learning is clear in every conversation. 
  2. Student engagement and action is such a big part of school life. 

But the third thing is at the heart: 

  1. Relationships.  

The importance placed on knowing every student and the genuine culture of care is everywhere. Today, I witnessed this before my very eyes. We met the new College Counsellor, Thao Nguyen. The student we were with was Tom who graduates this year. Tom, without any prompt, simply said.

“She is a saviour”

Four words from a young man at the end of his time in school before entering university. My next words were obvious… “say a little more”. Tom explained:

He had an offer from a great school but was unsure what to do. Tom didn’t know whether to take a gap year. He came and discussed it. Thao asked thoughtful questions and made him think really deeply. This conversation helped Tom look at his choices from different perspectives.

Tom said: 

“Without this, I would not have known what to do.” 

It is just brilliant to witness the gratitude and depth of feeling from students that use the support in their school in a way that makes a real difference.  

 Thank you to Thao for showing us that every interaction makes a difference.