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Thailand, Koh Samui
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ISS integrates SEL into its Early Years and PSHE curriculum. Reception classes follow Personal, Social & Emotional Development goals, such as self-regulation, managing feelings, and building relationships, following the EYFS framework. In later years (Year 5 and Year 10), PSHE units focus on mental health awareness: recognising emotions, understanding triggers, seeking help, and building resilience.
ISS offers structured learning support through a Response-to-Intervention model. Wave 2 support includes group or in-class teaching adjustments, while Wave 3 provides one-on-one programmes for more complex needs, developed collaboratively with a SENCO, specialist teachers, and external professionals. This is not a specialist SEN institution, but rather a mainstream school that accommodates diverse needs.
ISS provides a dedicated EAL programme for students whose first language is not English. Support includes pull-out language classes, in-class assistance, immersion strategies, use of online resources, assessments, cultural integration activities, and regular communication with parents.
The school addresses mental wellbeing directly within its PSHE curriculum. In Year 5 and Year 6, students learn about the importance of sleep, physical activity, hobbies, social connections, and lifestyle habits in supporting mental health. In Year 10, students explore emotional triggers, resilience-building techniques, and how to spot signs of stress or distress. No separate counselling services or dedicated wellbeing staff are mentioned publicly.
ISS has a clear safeguarding framework, and every staff member receives annual training in child protection, not just teachers. The school employs a Designated Safeguarding Lead and two deputies, whose contact details are displayed around campus. Staff involved in hiring follow Safer Recruitment practices, including identity, qualification, background, and police checks. A formal child protection policy outlines reporting procedures and expected conduct to prioritise student safety.
The International School of Samui (ISS), founded in 2007, educates students aged 3 to 18 years old using the British National Curriculum with Cambridge IGCSE and A Level qualifications. Located in Bophut between Chaweng and Bophut on Koh Samui, near Bandon Hospital and the Big C shopping centre, it serves a diverse student body of around 300 pupils from 35+ countries. The sole language of instruction is English, with Thai, Mandarin, and Spanish offered as subjects. Facilities include science labs, a computing classroom equipped with 3D printers and Lego Robotics, a sports hall, and a swimming pool, supporting strong STEM and sports programmes. Unique offerings such as the Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme, Marine Conservation Programme, and school organic farm give students experiential learning and leadership opportunities.
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