Overseas Family School

[Anne Marie]

I would very much look forward to receiving info on this school from parents with children aged 3 to 6. Many thanks in advance.
I have heard different stories and would like to have a clearer view. So please any info good or bad is very welcome.

[mom]

I have one child, age 6, who has been at OFS since age 4.  She loves it and has been very happy.  It's great to see the little ones so happy and excited about going to school--they really have fun.  The curriculum is good and the multicultural environment is fantastic.  Have you been by to have a look?

[mci]

I think it's the best school in Singapore!

[observer]

I recently attend an assembly where the third graders presented plays to the entire elementary program (1st-5th graders; about 600+ kids). The topic was centered on friendship and conflict resolution. What struck me was the obvious respect and support the elementary kids gave to the three third grade classes performing. No one was wriggeling, no one was poking at another child, no one was talking- during the entire program. All the kids joined in song. All the kids gave enthusiastic applause. All the children seemed wide-eyed with wonder.

I have also witnessed "attitude" in other schools; Innappropriate compitition (NOT cooperation); and general sillyness within assemblies at other campus' on the island.

Not a day goes by that I am not grateful for the recommendation that I look at OFS. The children are truly children of the world and learn more then their academic subjects from their peers and teachers and community. They seem to be allowed to savor the innocence of their age.

[nikki m]

My son is a third grader at OFS and it has been an incredible school for him.  The curriculum is sound and creatively done.  The languages offered are fantastic ranging from Madarin to French.  My son is in year two of Japanese and is becoming quite proficient able to read most signs at Narita this last trip.  Great school, terrific Parents association that helps support the goals of the school in a number of ways.  Also glad we are at OFS and so glad for the reccomendation as well.

[Mo3]

I have a 7 year old in second grade and a 4 year old in K1.  I really like the school.  The curriculum is similar to the one at the International School of Amsterdam, which my daughter attended at our previous assignment.  OFS also offers a swim time for the little ones (and I think they should get all the swimming possible when the kids are around pools so much).  They also offer a strong foreign language program at the elementary school level.  This is THE time for kids to pick up foreign languages, so why deny them the opportunity?  Also, I second the other postings here that talk about the respect for diversity of cultures that is emphasized at OFS. In fact, I had already made a non-refundable payment at SAS when I visited OFS and was so taken by OFS that I was willing lose my down payment and go with OFS.

[Another Mum]

I have two children, K1 and G3 at the OFS.  I'm very happy with it so far.  The school day is long for my 4 year old ( 9 - 3.15) but they have a chance to rest midday.  His teacher is simply fantatic and the curriculum is varied and interesting.  They place great emphasis on creating a happy social atmosphere, but don't push the children to read and write too early unless they show a particlar aptitude.  We love the school holidays ( 3 weeks at xmas and 2 months in the summer) as it gives plenty of time for returns home etc.  The school actively encourages parental contribution but is flexible enough to let me keep my son off school if he's just tired etc.  I'd give the OFS a thumbs up!

[SteveW]

Both of my children (Aged four & six) go to Tanglin Trust and are very happy.
The nice thing about this school is that unlike other fee paying schools in Singapore, it's non profit making and all income is ploughed back into development etc.

[jws]

we have two kids at OFS. 6 and 9 yrs old.
the 9 year old never had any problems adapting to any school. she has lived in 5 countries since birth.....
the 6 year old boy is a tricky one...however, since going to OFS in August, he has not complained once to me and is happy. Learns French, plays soccer and occasionally talks about having to learn how to count and write.
There is a happy and friendly atmosphere. EVEN the car park attendants are friendly and caring. Amazing school.