Universal Hua Xia International School (UHXIS) may be new to Penang’s educational landscape but it is nothing short of a strong learning profile. The curricular offerings, as well as the attention to growing an awareness of global citizenship, are rightly a draw for the families that enrol here.
The school sits within a secure, wired, guarded facility, complete with CCTV surveillance systems. The facility is an apt expression of the goals of the school.
It offers flexible learning environments, spacious settings and plenty of green outdoor spaces. Classrooms are fitted with interactive whiteboards and custom-made furniture built to meet current learning needs. As such, children are engaged in an active, hands-on, interactive and cooperative environment, where the core curriculum is delivered in consort with a growing understanding of their place in the community of the school and beyond.
Curriculum Pace, Academic Culture and Developmental Priorities
The academic atmosphere is supportive and progressive, beginning with a programme guided by the British Early Years Foundation Stage framework that sets a tone to an all-rounded educational experience for learners aged 2 to 5 years. Education foundation revolves around the concept that learning happens best when children are comfortable, happy, safe and being inclusive. Care is where it begins, rather than in the bells and whistles.
The early years foundation comprises two programmes, namely Nursery (2 to 3 years) and Pre-school (4 to 5 years). The curriculum provides a strong basis in the basics, as it should, building a strong foundation for future learning. Play underpins the first taste of learning and development in a school environment for the little ones. A variety of thematic play-based and structured activities are used in the education process, striking a fine balance between both teacher-led and student-initiated learning. Activities are consolidated across the following prime areas: personal, social and emotional development, physical development, communication and language development, literacy development, mathematics, understanding world leadership, and expressive arts and design. Instruction is inquiry-based, seeking to build on children’s curiosity, talents and interests. Learning is facilitated by tried and tested teaching aids including flash cards, educational toys, handmade teaching props, songs and videos. The programmes are delivered in English and are supported by language education in Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia. The school’s platform is used to inculcate a host of skills, as well as interpersonal, physical and emotional development, to grant children a heightened sense of their place in the global community.
The approach is based on providing a diversity of activity and physical movement, both within the classroom and without. Enrichment programmes, field trips, concerts and sports carnivals all find a place within the delivery of the curriculum. After-school care and meals make a welcomed addition to urban, working parents.
Educators take pacing cues from individual students, tailoring the delivery of the curriculum to the growing developmental milestones of the children. Small class sizes enhance personal attention, the experience and participation within all aspects of life in the school.
Student’s progress is monitored through observation and work samples. Close communication with parents is observed throughout the academic year via phone messages, LittleLives app and parent-teacher meetings.
Special Needs Support
Every school exists to meet the needs of a specific set of learners. UHXIS goes the distance to make sure every child has the opportunity they deserve to learn and excel despite their circumstances. Ones that require special therapeutic support will benefit from the special class put in place to help address mild learning challenges. Special needs specialists will be staffed to provide additional attention and needs.
Investing in the Future
Parents turn to UHXIS are drawn to the strong foundation of its early years programme, one that provides a seamless transition into the primary grades. Attention is given, of course, to core academics, though likewise to creating independent, autonomous learners. Values are undergird by John Dewey’s famous quote:
Education is not preparation for life; but is life itself.
Ultimately, the school demonstrates strong intention to deliver students confident in their ability to be whoever they aspire to be and can be, their relationships with others, and their place in the world.
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