Latest News Archives - Vlog - International School of Phnom Penh /news/category/latest-news/ Cambodia's Leading International School Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:44:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /wp-content/uploads/2025/11/cropped-Vlog-Logo-Monument-Blue-scaled-2-32x32.png Latest News Archives - Vlog - International School of Phnom Penh /news/category/latest-news/ 32 32 Director’s update /news/directors-update/ Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:38:32 +0000 /?p=9504 November – January 2026
Connection at the Core of Holistic Learning

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November – January 2026
Connection at the Core of Holistic Learning

At Vlog, holistic learning is a learner-centred approach that recognises the importance of the interconnections between domains of learning, and between individuals and their peers, their communities and the world around them. Holistic approaches enhance development across intellectual, emotional, social, physical and creative potentials. We value an approach to educating the whole child that focuses on the development of individual potential, collective efficacy and connection in community.

Our school values of curiosity, courage, care and community link deeply to the process of learning together and growing together as expressed in our school Vision. These values are expressed and experienced outwardly and collectively, as well as developed as fundamental internal principles.

In an increasingly digitised and virtual world, we place value on the power of human connection to support wellbeing, long-term mental health, more engagement at school and more purpose and relevance in our learning. This is observed directly in our community and is well supported by a large body of academic research:

  • Students who feel connected are less likely to engage in risky behaviours and more likely to have higher grades and better attendance. [Centres for Disease Control]
  • Higher school connectedness is strongly associated with a lower prevalence of poor mental health among high school students. “When youth feel connected to their school, they are less likely to experience poor mental health, sexual health risks, substance use and violence. And they are more likely to engage in positive health behaviours (physical activity and healthy eating), have higher grades and test scores, have better school attendance, and graduate high school.” [Wilkins et al.]
  • Extracurricular activities promote the formation of new friendships and help maintain existing ones, which is essential for social development and a sense of belonging. [Schaefer et al.]
  • Organised activities have a positive impact on mental health outcomes from participation in team sport, school clubs and non-sport extracurricular activities. [Bolens et al.]

This issue of the Pulse features many of the activities where students are finding connectedness, engaging in our community and exemplifying our school values.

Activities like the Elementary Student Council Epic Arts trip, Secondary Student Union and the Environmental Action Committee are intentionally structured to build student voice, courage, leadership, resilience and community.

Activities like Inktober, the production of Romeo & Juliet and the Elementary InChoir develop curiosity and creativity and challenge students to push boundaries.

Rocking Youth Cambodia, Designing for Blind Children and Cats on Campus connect Vlog students to a wider community and demonstrate care in action.

The Phnom Penh Plunge, PPAC8 swimming and all of our sports teams provide the opportunity for students to build friendships, develop skills, maintain physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle and to foster our international school’s community. They are also great ways to reduce stress and have fun!

I hope you enjoy seeing holistic learning in action in these pages and take the opportunity to discuss with your child the opportunities they are taking to develop the values of Curiosity, Care, Courage and Community.

Works Cited:

Boelens, Mirte, Michel S. Smit, Hein Raat, Wichor M. Bramer, Wilma Jansen. (2022). Impact of organized activities on mental health in children and adolescents: An umbrella review. Preventive Medicine Reports, 25. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101687

Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. (2009). School Connectedness: Strategies for Increasing Protective Factors Among Youth. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Schaefer, D. R., Simpkins, S. D., Vest, A. E., & Price, C. D. (2011). The contribution of extracurricular activities to adolescent friendships: New insights through social network analysis. Developmental Psychology, 47(4), 1141–1152.

Wilkins N.J., Krause K.H., Verlenden J.V., Szucs L.E., Ussery E.N., Allen C.T., Stinson J., Michael S.L., Ethier K.A. (2021). School Connectedness and Risk Behaviors and Experiences Among High School Students – Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States.

Eileen Niedermann
Director

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Director’s update /news/directors-update-october-2024/ Mon, 04 Nov 2024 08:37:54 +0000 /?p=8882 August – October 2024
Taking Action on Our Environmental Values

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August – October 2024
Taking Action on Our Environmental Values

Vlog Director Eileen NiedermannIf you have been on campus recently, you may have seen that we have a fairly large area blocked off between the swimming pool and the field. This is the site of our new Falcons Hub – we are excited for what this new facility will mean for Vlog in terms of functionality but also the opportunity this presents to take action in-line with our values of responsibility to the environment.

This building is being designed to meet the highest standard of environmental protection and every decision takes this into account. We are using the from the US Green Building Council and our hope is to reach the highest rating we can in this effort.

The LEED certification works on a points system in seven different categories. Here are some highlights of the type of things we are incorporating in the building design.

LEED credit categories

Sustainable sites:

  • 30% of the site is outdoor space
  • Reduce heat-island effects through roof materials that absorb less energy
  • Reduce light pollution by designing illumination downward
  • Reduce water usage by harvesting rainwater for toilet flushing

Indoor environmental quality

  • Automate monitoring systems for indoor air quality
  • Air intake filtration systems to ensure high-quality indoor air
  • Use Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) emitting carpets
  • Ensure all rooms have sufficient daylight through window design

Water efficiency:

  • Implement outdoor water use reduction through landscape design
  • Use low-consumption fixtures such as toilets, sinks and showers
  • Include building-specific water metering

Energy and atmosphere

  • Connect to our existing solar energy grid
  • Use energy-efficient appliances and lighting
  • Use AC systems that are highly efficient, reducing GHG emissions
  • Build thermally insulating walls, windows and roof to reduce energy losses

Materials and resources

  • Use recyclable materials including the steel frame of the building
  • Source materials locally or regionally as possible
  • Install materials that meet environmental standards for green buildings (paints, flooring, furniture, hardware, tiles, carpet etc.)

Location and transportation

  • Identify access to public transit
  • Establish bicycle parking
  • Provide access and charging for green vehicles

Innovation

  • Use the building as an education tool as part of its fundamental purpose
  • Maintain green housekeeping practices
  • Use LED lighting

If you want to see the construction in process, upstairs in the Learning Center gives a nice bird’s eye view!

Eileen Niedermann
Director

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Director’s update /news/directors-update-july-2024/ Tue, 06 Aug 2024 08:11:35 +0000 /?p=8675 For May – July 2024

Welcome to the 2024-25 school year!

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May – July 2024

 

Vlog Director Eileen Niedermann

Dear returning and new families,

Welcome to the 2024-25 school year! We are excited to welcome our new community members and we hope you enjoy Vlog as much as we do! If you are returning, welcome home – to the land of the Vlog Falcons!

Vibrant is a great word to use to describe learning at Vlog in the 2023-24 school year. Teachers focused on our Learning Principles which describe our important beliefs about what makes for high-quality learning experiences. Inside and outside of the classroom, these principles were seen in units of study from the Early Years through Grade 12. I hope parents have also been able to witness how their children are involved in inspiring, inquiry-based learning that is transferable and authentic. We structure learning to create safe and social environments in which learning is personalised and has relevance for each learner.

This type of learning is visible in formal settings in classrooms but also in our expanding complementary programmes including Outdoor Education, Sports and the Arts as well as through Global Citizenship activities. This has been an incredible year for our Falcons and the schedule has certainly been full of opportunities for students to be empowered through growth and leadership. Personal and Academic excellence shines through in MRISA and ISSAPP competitions, in theatre performances, in assemblies and through milestone events like the PYP Exhibition, the MYP Personal Project, the TOK exhibition and so many more assessments of learning.

Vlog Falcons

Vlog has strongly held values around community, diversity, internationalism and global citizenship. Some of these values are exemplified in our composition – with more than 50 nationalities represented in our student body and 29 nationalities in our faculty, we are a microcosm of a wider humanity. This year’s International Day as well as the Khmer New Year celebrations are some of the most visible ways in which we celebrate diversity. I would like to thank our Parent-Community Organisation (PCO) for doing so much this year to bring our community together, to welcome new families and to support school events.

As many of you will already know, we have been involved in a year-long study and review of our facilities, emerging needs and improvements that can be made. This started with an energy audit which examined our overall consumption and proposed many interventions that can reduce our consumption of electricity and hence our carbon footprint. Vlog has a strong value around environmental sustainability and this study enables informed decision-making going forward. Also in the realm of sustainability, we were able to re-start solar production after facing some regulatory challenges. We are now producing at least half of our electricity demand with clean energy. We are excited about how this is reducing our carbon footprint as well as the cost savings it is representing.

Vlog Students

The review of facilities then proceeded in a Master Planning process. This study provides a roadmap for future developments and a logic around how we use our facilities. At the same time, this review confirmed our need to expand certain facilities and led to the launch of a new building project that is now underway. We anticipate opening that facility in about 12 months’ time, if all goes well. This will also free up some other spaces for future developments in key areas of need.

There are many more achievements that I would like to highlight from this past academic year, but space is short. I would like to express my gratitude to our Vlog Board of Trustees for their dedication and volunteerism. Your service is appreciated and essential to ensure the stewardship of Vlog! A special note of appreciation goes to both Lee Hole and Chris Scott who led the Secondary School in times of rapid transition, moving through and out of the pandemic. We wish all of our departing teachers and staff all the best as they transition into new challenges and opportunities.

Vlog Production

At the same time, we are welcoming a new cohort of teachers and a new Secondary leadership team. Welcome aboard to all of you! Let the 2024-25 school year begin!

Eileen Niedermann
Director

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Director’s update /news/directors-update-october-2023/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:02:26 +0000 /?p=8220 For August – October 2023

Enhancing our campus for the next decade

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For August – October 2023

 

Vlog Director Eileen NiedermannOne of the things that our community appreciates most about Vlog is our beautiful campus. Students, faculty, staff and parents frequently comment on our green spaces and wonderful facilities that create an “oasis” in Phnom Penh, a shelter from the busy, dusty and vibrant cityscape.

That said, our wonderful, purpose-built campus is approaching its 10th birthday and some needs are emerging around further enhancements. As we considered what would be most important to work on, we quickly realised that any additions or improvements would need to be considered in the context of the entire campus – a “system” rather than individual aspects. So, we contracted (EDI) to conduct a master planning process for our campus. The visual below highlights some of the values and aspirations that have been emphasised.

Pedagogical orientation

In August, EDI sent a team to Vlog to consult with our stakeholder groups – school leaders, faculty and staff, parents and students. They toured our facilities while they were in action, met with teams to understand the ethos of the school, explored our vision for future educational models, considered sustainability and the environment, and tested the waters of design concepts. The site visit has led to a “Discovery Report” that reflects our values and aspirations for our campus.

Some of the key findings are outlined below:

  • Vlog has laid a robust foundation for teaching and learning and will continue to evolve to offer more innovative educational experiences in the future.
  • Any proposed changes must be future-focused while preserving the core ethos of the school.
  • Enhancements to campus facilities should establish stronger connections between the curriculum and learning environments.
  • Upgrades are needed in specialised facilities to sustain Vlog’s high-quality programming.
  • Long-term goals must be integrated into the planning process, facilitating systematic and phased upgrades.
  • There are opportunities to utilise existing resources more effectively.
  • Transformation of the campuses may include new construction, augmented by targeted renovations.
  • Revitalization opportunities exist, particularly concerning the lack of crucial amenities like lockers and restrooms.
  • Current facility limitations are impeding the school from realising its full potential and need focused attention.

The school values simplicity, humility, and responsiveness to its environment, principles that will be honoured in all developmental initiatives. These collective insights will be meticulously integrated into our Facilities Master Plan. This comprehensive approach aims to address both immediate challenges and long-term objectives while maintaining strict alignment with Vlog’s core values and ambitious vision.

Vlog Secondary

We are looking forward to the next stages which include concept development around a comprehensive plan for the entire facility. We will be sure to update the community as this process unfolds further.


Eileen Niedermann
Director

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Director’s update /news/directors-update-july-2023/ Thu, 10 Aug 2023 04:14:00 +0000 /?p=7933 For May – July 2023

With a focus on an important part of learning at Vlog – becoming a self-directed learner referred to as agency.

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For May – July 2023

 

Vlog Director Eileen NiedermannDear Vlog Community,

This is the final update for the 2022-23 academic year and a great chance to celebrate the learning that has happened all year long as well as the key culminating events of the end of the school year. It was certainly a packed final few months with so many key milestones for our learners. In the final weeks, we were able to celebrate the PYP-MYP transition for the Grade 5 students, the Grade 12 graduation, the Secondary Arts Night, the MYP Project Change, the InChoir performance, STEM-X and many more demonstrations of learning.

In this issue, I would like to focus on an important part of learning at Vlog – becoming a self-directed learner. You may have also heard this referred to as agency. Key aspects of learner agency include the learner’s voice and the learner’s choice. Building skills to become a self-directed learner is an important part of all learning at Vlog and a key feature of the IB Programmes (PYP, MYP and DP). It asks learners to develop inquisitiveness and resourcefulness so that they can develop their learning questions, set goals, determine the learning process, find resources and determine how they can best demonstrate their learning. The attributes of self-directed learners include:

  • Curiosity, open-mindedness
  • Autonomy and motivation
  • Self-management and organisation
  • Perseverance and persistence

 

Vlog Students

To develop these skills and to foster attitudes that promote self-directed learning, learning activities and assessments at Vlog deliberately provide developmentally appropriate “bite-sized” opportunities to self-direct. And then three major milestone learning tasks enable learners to consolidate their agency in a significant piece of assessment.

In the PYP, the Exhibition (X) asks students in Grade 5 to “explore, document and share their understanding of an issue or opportunity of personal significance” ().

In the MYP, the Personal Project (PP) similarly asks students in Grade 10 to explore an area of personal interest. Students conducting the Personal Project have the autonomy to select a focus area, set a goal, determine a product and self-assess through their success criteria (IBO). Time management, making decisions, solving problems and presenting ideas are key hallmarks of the Personal Project.

In the DP, the Extended Essay (EE) is a significant piece of academic research and writing conducted in a discipline of the student’s choosing. In conducting the research for an Extended Essay, “learners develop intellectual initiative and rigour, develop research, thinking, self-management and communication skills and reflect on what has been learned throughout the research and writing process” (IBO).

Vlog Elementary Students

In addition to these key milestone projects in each of our IB Programmes, there are many other opportunities for learners to develop self-direction. In the , learners are actively engaged in designing and arranging their learning environments, choosing their learning pathways and influencing how time is used in their classrooms. Play-based learning features heavily in the PYP – what could be more self-directed than unstructured play?

In the , students are deeply engaged in adolescence and in exploring their own identities in a social world. Negotiating relationships with others, values and consequences feature heavily in their learning. They begin to apply their learning in various contexts; an expanding worldview and awareness of local and global issues enable them to explore the impact of their actions and the actions of others.

From selecting their subjects while entering the to developing their portfolio of activities to conducting internal assessments, DP students have repeated chances to explore their voice and choice in the world of academics.

Vlog Elementary Students

I hope you have been able to see how your children have grown as self-directed learners over this past academic year!


Eileen Niedermann
Director

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Director’s update /news/directors-update-january-2023/ Mon, 30 Jan 2023 06:49:51 +0000 /?p=7647 For November - January 2023

The 2020-2024 Strategic Plan strengthens and deepens our approaches to holistic education, especially in the "Learning" domain of the plan.

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For November – January 2023

 

Vlog Director Eileen NiedermannDear Vlog Community,

At Vlog, one of our core values for education is that it serves to develop students who exhibit the values expressed in our mission statement –

“Vlog empowers students, in a caring, inclusive international environment, to achieve their potential by pursuing personal and academic excellence, and to grow as responsible global citizens who celebrate diversity.”

We often use the term “holistic” to describe our approach to learning experiences that empower learners, help them find their passions and achieve their goals. We understand that the values that underpin this education are essential in making the world a better and more peaceful place.

So, what does a holistic education mean to us?

Fundamentally, it is a learner-centred approach that recognizes the importance of the interconnections between learning domains, individuals and their peers, their communities and the world around them. Holistic approaches enhance development across intellectual, emotional, social, physical and creative potentials.

Vlog Elementary school

A holistic learning environment is characterised by –

  • An open and collaborative relationship between educator and student.
  • An emphasis on learning through experiences in various contexts both within and beyond the formal classroom.
  • A focus on learners taking ownership of their development and learning.
  • An emphasis on growth over achievement where the process of learning is as important as the destination.
  • Developing meaning by encouraging understanding and engagement with the world which recognises the learners’ identity in relation to others and the world.
  • Critically examining their lives’ cultural, moral and political contexts, actively challenging and changing cultural values to meet human needs.
  • Applying the intersecting capabilities of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values to being a citizen in a complex and rapidly changing world.
  • Fostering a love of learning and disposition to be a lifelong learner.
  • Demonstrating flexibility and creative approaches to problem-solving.

 

For these reasons, an Vlog education includes –

  • Broad and balanced disciplinary learning
  • Transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary learning
  • Challenge and stretch
  • Choice and pathways
  • Robust complimentary learning programmes including the After School Programme, sports, the arts and other activities
  • Experiential learning through Week without Walls, field trips and outdoor education programmes
  • Global citizenship, service with others
  • Student leadership and initiatives
  • Capstone projects where students initiate and guide their learning – the Exhibition in the PYP, the Personal Project in the MYP and the Extended Essay in the DP.

 

Vlog Elementary school

The strengthens and deepens our approaches to holistic education, especially in the Learning domain of the plan.


Eileen Niedermann
Director

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Director’s update /news/directors-update-october-2022/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 03:34:26 +0000 /?p=7420 For August - October 2022

The campus is buzzing with activity and we are happy to see parents showing up in strong numbers for many of these things

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For August – October 2022

 

Vlog Director Eileen NiedermannDear Vlog Community,

It is hard to believe that two and a half months have flown by so quickly. My transition process has been rewarding and full of optimism. I have focused my time in conversations with community members and spending time with faculty, staff and students. We have been able to launch the PCO (Parent Community Organisation) and have one Community Coffee Morning. Many community members have asked that I continue being visible and present for the important work they are doing. This is the foundation of community.

I am sure you have heard and seen the discussion around our whole school’s focus on community and I am happy to say that we are well on our way to realizing this goal. The campus is buzzing with activity and we are happy to see parents showing up in strong numbers for many of these things. Sports activities, work on the Secondary production, the After School Programme, Elementary and Secondary assemblies, opening the campus for community access, community artwork, the Back-to-School barbecue, Peace One Day activities and more!

Importantly, we have been able to launch the Parent Community Organisation after a couple of years of interruption. The parents have elected three members to take the roles on the Steering Committee:

Chair: Justina Edwardsen, parent of 3 Vlog students in PYP and MYP
Secretary: Kari Podboy, parent of 2 Vlog students in MYP
Treasurer: Weili Guo, parent of 2 Vlog Students in EY and PYP

Vlog Community Art Project

In my conversations on the topic of community, very strongly held common values are emerging as strengths. And… you won’t be surprised at what they are – you hold them too!

  • A culture of caring and acceptance between and across cultures
  • A welcoming, supportive and collaborative community
  • Appreciation for our diversity in students, faculty and wider community
  • A feeling of appreciation and gratitude for our campus facilities and environment
  • Purposeful alignment between the school’s mission and vision and the way that we make decisions, assign priorities and invest resource

 

In my conversations with educators, there is a unique and powerful professional climate at Vlog.

This is founded on professional trust and independence in a hard-working team. Faculty are motivated to do their best, willing to be risk-takers and open to asking for support. Work-hard, play-hard might be a good motto for the team. Educators at Vlog also endorse the school’s commitment to being at the forefront of some important initiatives aligned with our purpose and values; including our Mother Tongue and Scholarship programmes.

Vlog Community Art Project

I also had the chance to join a group of 35 colleagues in a 4-day training for Cognitive Coaching. In addition to refreshing my own skills in this area, it was a wonderful opportunity to engage in professional learning with colleagues. Fundamentally, this is about fostering self-directed people who are continually learning in their roles.

Bridging our whole-school focus on Community with our Strategic Development Planning Pillars, the following are the strategic objectives described in the community pillar:

2.1 The Vlog community is strengthened through a range of on-campus activities, events, learning experiences and other opportunities for enrichment for the student body, faculty and staff, and the greater Vlog community.

2.2 To have in place a consolidated philanthropic programme encompassing the Scholarship Programme, Global Citizenship and host country outreach programmes.

2.3 The PCO, with nationality representatives and in collaboration with Vlog, drives initiatives to support the school and engage all nationality groups.

As you can see, we have made significant inroads in these areas already in the 2022-23 school year!

Vlog Community Art Project

This collaborative artwork was created by both Elementary and Secondary Art students, teachers, support staff and parents. We wanted to celebrate the diverse nature of Vlog by including the meaning of the word “community” in various languages our families and students speak.

As we gently ease past a pandemic-driven world, we will be working to re-establish the Vlog traditions, rituals and events. We are looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate with all members of our community in this regard.

Exciting opportunities are underway in areas of outdoor education, performances, International Day, Week Without Walls, sports tournaments, trips and more!

Very soon, we will be launching a series of meetings of the “Community and Campus Development Steering Committee”, exploring new ways to make our facilities even more welcoming and impactful. This small steering committee will seek input from a wide range of stakeholders on the following tasks/topics:

  • Review the resources currently in place and available for community activities
  • Review historical usage patterns (pre-pandemic)
  • Consult with all relevant stakeholder groups on interests and needs
  • Research what similar schools have done/are doing and how they manage the activities
  • Consider options of changes to existing facilities, or creation of new facilities, and the necessary management procedures to ensure effective operations and full consideration of health, safety and security needs

 

Keep your eyes out for updates on this over the coming months.

Eileen Niedermann
Director

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Director’s Welcome /news/directors-welcome/ Thu, 28 Jul 2022 01:40:41 +0000 /?p=7144 Dear Vlog Families, Welcome back to all those returning this academic year and a warm welcome to all families who are joining us for the first time! I would like to introduce myself as the new Director of Vlog. It is a distinct privilege to be able to serve the community in this role and […]

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Dear Vlog Families,

Welcome back to all those returning this academic year and a warm welcome to all families who are joining us for the first time!

I would like to introduce myself as the new Director of Vlog. It is a distinct privilege to be able to serve the community in this role and I am honored to have been selected by the Board and community to do so.

This past April, I had the opportunity to come to Vlog for a brief orientation visit. It was a time when the school was transitioning to more and more face-to-face interactions and there was a distinct sense of optimism and anticipation about being able to return to previously cherished interactions and activities. Since my arrival mid-July, the main office team and many community members have been incredibly supportive in helping me settle into Phnom Penh and the school.

I have had my eye on Vlog for many years as a school where I would love to work. The values articulated in the school’s mission and vision are important, ambitious and meaningful. The school has done significant work in aligning the values, ethos and strategic direction. In particular, aspirations to community, inclusion, environment, global citizenship, philanthropy, and service are deeply significant areas with much scope for impactful contribution and learning. I am excited to be part of their journey to bring these aspirations into practice.

I believe that educational experiences for young people should be joyful and rooted in inquiry, creativity and exploration. The foundation of these beliefs lies in my conviction that all students have the ability as well as the right to learn and that we have an obligation to provide deep, meaningful, connected and significant learning that is deeply conceptual, evidence-based and which engages the learner and expands their horizons. The outcome of our educational process should be to develop students who are prepared for the challenges that they will face in life and who will positively contribute to their communities with a global outlook.

I am joining Vlog after having served 6 years as the Director at Mahindra International School in Pune, India. Previously, I was the Secondary Principal at the Overseas School of Colombo in Sri Lanka and the Director of Curriculum and Professional Learning at Tashkent International School in Uzbekistan. I began my international school career at the International School of Tanganyika, Tanzania. My teaching interests have been mainly focused in the secondary divisions in the areas of Physics, Mathematics, Design and Theory of Knowledge.

My educational qualifications include a Master of Arts in Multicultural Education from San Francisco State University in California and a Bachelor of Science in Physics [Hons] and Mathematics from Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon. I am a graduate of the Principal’s Training Center for International School Leadership.

I look forward to our time together – Learning together, growing together, each making a difference.

 

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Director’s Update /news/directors-update-april-2022/ Tue, 03 May 2022 07:50:05 +0000 /?p=6936 For February - April 2022

Key developments in our strategic and operational planning as we look to the future

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For February – April 2022

As we begin the last quarter of the academic year, our Grade 12 students had their last formal day of school on Friday 8th April. As such, I would like to congratulate the class of 2022 on the completion of their school-based education. We recognise that the last two years have brought many challenges and uncertainty for you. Both individually and collectively, you have been robust in your response, handling the emotional difficulties and anxiety that uncertainty brings. I know that this will stand you in good stead as you transition to the next stage of your education and life. We wish you well in your future endeavours.

As I write, we are seeing a reduction in covid cases both within Cambodia and neighbouring countries and it appears that we are now transitioning to a more regular type of on-campus schooling. We are excited about the opportunities that this will bring over the final quarter and feel optimistic for the new academic year.

In this article, I would like to share with you key developments in our strategic and operational planning as we look to the future, not just surviving the pandemic but emerging from it with optimism for the future. I will also summarise some of the feedback from students, parents and staff as we reflect on lessons learned throughout the pandemic.

Learning
  • Vlog was re-accredited by the , the and the for the , and .
  • Inclusion at Vlog has been broadened and deepened to include in-house speech and language therapy and school psychological services, and professional development in learning inclusion. A valuable workshop on Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Justice was recently undertaken by our faculty.
  • The whole school English as an Additional Language (EAL) committee has completed its review of the provision of EAL and made recommendations for implementation. Additionally, the feedback from the whole school language committee is complete and is currently being reviewed for implementation.
  • A Secondary Learning Centre Leader role has been established to further develop the approach to a learning hub for the region.
  • IT infrastructure continues to be upgraded and a one-to-one Chromebook programme has been incorporated in Grades 4 and 5. Backend IT upgrades have also taken place.
  • Educational pathways and offerings as well as graduation diplomas are being reviewed

Community
  • An Outdoor Education Committee has completed its study and presented its recommendations to the administration and the Board. As a result, an Outdoor Education Director (incorporating a Community Access Leader) role has been created for 2022-2023 and an appointment was made.
  • Community access guidelines have also been reviewed to provide greater access to the campus to community members when possible.
  • Our scholarship programme continues with the selection process underway for students for entry to Grade 6 next year. The programme provides access to 3-4 students per year, aiming to have students in Grade 6 – 12. The students will take part in a preparation programme this summer. We currently have 19 students in Grades 6 – 9.
  • The whole school Community Pillar Coordinator is in place to have oversight of the strategic actions in the area of the community.
  • A Community Centre Committee, chaired by our incoming director, will be set up in the new academic year to review and develop options for this project, which is part of our strategic plan.
  • The Parent Committee Organisation (PCO) Terms of Reference are being re-envisioned with an approach that includes grade level and language area representatives for full initiation at the beginning of the 2022-23 academic year.

Environment
  • Eco-School green flag re-accreditation has been achieved.
  • Greater alignment between the Environmental Action Committees (EAC) across ES and SS is being developed.
  • We continue to seek dialogue with and the to reduce and or remove the environmental tariff on solar energy. We have made changes to mitigate part of the tariff and our student EACs are seeking support from the Prime Minister for Vlog’s approach to solar development.
  • Additional buses have been purchased to increase bus service use when permitted by the .

Wellbeing
  • Our Child Protection Policy and Safe Schools Procedures Handbook have been updated.
  • All faculty, support staff, board members and contract staff have completed child protection courses online, either in English or Khmer.
  • A whole school Well-being Coordinator is in place, with oversight of the pillar’s strategic actions to ensure aligned and coordinated support. Well-being audits will be conducted in the new year and several teams are involved in flourishing the school’s professional development programme.
  • The Staff Wellbeing Committee has ensured well-being activities were included in both our orientation and in-service programmes for all staff.
  • The Secondary school counselling team has been restructured vertically – Grades 6 through 9 and Grades 10 through 12.
  • We are waiting for the appropriate materials to upgrade the ES playground equipment.

Governance Leadership and Strategy
  • Vlog’s legal restructuring process is nearly complete and will be in place before the end of the academic year.
  • A Trustee Governance, Leadership and Strategic Planning Handbook is in development and will be finalised for use by the beginning of 2022-23.
  • The annual review and update of the Board’s Policy Manual are underway with Standard Operating Procedures for both Finance and Human Resources being initiated and finalised.
  • Director and Board transitions are working to ensure continuity and the maintenance of positive relationships.
  • The Board of Trustees has provided appropriate governance, level oversight and support for the Director and Administration Team in the conduct of all planned and unexpected school business, including implementation of the Strategic Plan 2020-2024 and matters arising from the covid-19 pandemic.
  • Aspects of Vlog’s Strategic Plan, accreditation and operational planning have been consolidated into a whole school development plan which is reviewed and updated regularly.

Finance Facilities and Resources (including Human Resources)
  • A long term (8 years) financial plan is being developed to take into account strategic planning goals, operating and capital expenditures as well as long term cash flow.
  • A zero-based budgeting process has been implemented.
  • Finance Standard Operating Procedures Manuals have been developed, approved and implemented.
  • A risk management framework has been developed and implemented for the annual updates.
  • Cash flow is being managed to ensure maximum returns on surplus liquidity.
  • Facilities have been upgraded and developed, including additional elevators (in the Learning Centre and the Black Box Theatre), two additional buses, and toilet/bathroom additions including two gender-neutral bathrooms. A workshop is currently being constructed and should be completed before the new academic year.
  • New information systems that can be integrated are in the final stages of the implementation process. This includes PowerSchool (central admin system), SAP (accounting system) and Unified Talent (human resources system). Options for school fees to be paid via ABA have been added.
  • The formal benchmarking process for salaries and benefits for faculty and support staff is taking place.
  • HR Standard Operating procedures manuals are being developed and finalised.
  • An updated faculty professional appraisal process continues to be piloted and the staff system is under review.

Reputation: Admissions, Marketing, Communications and Advancement
  • Vlog’s updated admissions policy continued to be monitored for impact.
  • A strategic planning communication pamphlet providing a higher-level overview of our approach has been developed and distributed to all stakeholders.
  • Our first “Year in Review” (annual report) has been developed and distributed
  • Key areas and updates have been focused on and published in different editions of The Pulse.

In addition, we recently conducted a “Lessons Learned Survey” for students, parents, teachers and support staff. We sought to draw out themes across different cohort groups and the themed responses can be found .

As we move forward, this feedback and the recommendations from our accreditation reports will be incorporated into our approach and whole school development plan.

As we approach the end of the school year, I would like to wish the members of our community who are planning a move to a different school and/or country all the very best with your transitions and as that you keep in contact with us here at Vlog. Whether your stay was a long or a short one, you have enriched our school community and your touch will have an impact on this school forever. Please come back and visit us sometime in the future. Vlog as a school seems to have a permanent hold on all those who spend time here and you will always be welcome. This academic year is also my last at Vlog and I look back fondly, having grown both personally and professionally over my time here. I will always have a special place in my heart for Vlog, Phnom Penh and Cambodia.

With kind regards,

Gareth

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Director’s Update /news/directors-update-october-2021/ Wed, 24 Nov 2021 08:29:02 +0000 /?p=6607 For August - October 2021

We hope that as the academic year progresses we will be able to introduce more campus activities as well as improve access to the campus in general.

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For August – October 2021

Over the past few months, we have become excited by the possibility of being back on campus and our hope dashed also. I think we all understand how difficult this can be as it plays on our emotions. Resilience has needed to be the watchword and, as I write, I am hoping that we can find a way to be on campus in a sustainable way. Whether we are on campus, at home and especially out in the community we continue to stress the 3 Dos and 3 Donts:

Continue 3 preventions:

  • Mask wearing (at all times)
  • Frequent hand washing/sanitizing
  • Maintaining physical distancing (1.5m)


Continue 3 avoidance strategies:

  • Avoid crowded places
  • Avoid low hygiene enclosed spaces with limited airflow (and maintain airflow where possible)
  • Avoid direct touching while meeting with other people and avoid lengthy meetings in restricted places

 

We hope that as the academic year progresses we will be able to introduce more campus activities as well as improve access to the campus in general.

As we did last year, we have taken the opportunity within the Vlog Pulse to provide a greater focus on what we are doing in our core values of Learning, Well-being, Environment and Community. In , you will find a focus on Learning from Jonathan Smedes, our Deputy Director and Director of Learning, Teaching, Impact and Innovation. This includes an overview of how learning and teaching take place at Vlog, along with an overview of assessment. I hope you can take the time to read it.

As I write for this issue of the Pulse, we are preparing for the , and virtual reaccreditation visit which takes place between the 18th and 22nd October.

For those of you who may not be aware of the accreditation process, every five years both organisations send a team of accreditors to schools to reflect upon how well they are doing in relation to the standards and practices of these organisations. This ensures external quality control assessment on one side and the opportunity for reflection and growth on the other. As reflective educators, it is a process that we fully embrace in the journey of continually nurturing positive impact for our students and the broader school community. All previous accreditations and authorisation processes have recognised Vlog as a quality school and have challenged us to continue on the path of school improvement and development.

Following the visit, we will receive a report, typically within 8 weeks, that will outline both commendations and recommendations. As soon as we receive these findings we will seek to share them with the broader school community.

The Admissions, Marketing and Communications team are in the process of sharing some new and updated ways of communicating. The first piece of information will be a document called 2020-21 at Vlog – The Year in Review. This will be our first issue of an annual report that will provide an overview of the previous academic year. In addition to this, we are also introducing an Vlog app for our mobile devices. We hope that this will enhance the flow of communication as we recognise that the mobile phone has become the information and/or communication tool of choice for both younger and older generations alike. We look forward to sharing these with you.

With kind regards,

Gareth

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