
By CarLy Peart

By CarLy Peart
Carly Peart, Cross Campus Vice Principal, Continued Professional Learning
At the beginning of April just before the Songkran break, four senior leaders from Bangkok Patana took part in a three-day leadership coaching programme titled Coaching as a Way of Leading, facilitated by Chris Munro, Executive Director of Growth Coaching International (GCI). They were joined by senior leaders from across Thailand, all exploring how coaching can transform the way we lead.
At Bangkok Patana, we’ve already embedded the Impact Cycle, developed by Dr Jim Knight and championed through our Professional Growth Cycle, as part of our teaching and learning dialogue. This course took things a step further by focusing specifically on leadership coaching, using the GCI-developed GROWTH model. While
the Impact Cycle is grounded in improving instructional practice, the GROWTH model gives leaders a flexible framework for having meaningful, reflective conversations; ones that encourage others to think deeply, take ownership, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
One of the most powerful aspects of the course was how it pushed us, as leaders, outside of our comfort zones. We were invited not only to learn a new structure, but to practise it live, in real-time conversations with peers. There were no scripts. No safety nets. Just an invitation to be fully present, to listen deeply, and to resist the urge to jump in with quick fixes. That in itself was a challenge. As leaders, we’re often wired to solve problems. But this programme reminded us that the most transformative moments come not from providing answers, but from creating the space for others to uncover their own.
Throughout the course, the emphasis was on slowing down, tuning in, and using the GROWTH model not as a checklist, but as a guide to help steer conversations that matter. The skills we practised (active listening, asking better questions, and letting silence do its work) may seem simple, but they’re deeply powerful. And when modelled well, they become contagious.
Looking ahead, our aim is to continue developing leadership coaching across the school. Whether it’s through peer dialogue, team line management, or everyday checkins, this way of leading has the potential to create lasting cultural shifts towards greater trust, deeper reflection, and empowered professional growth.
In short, we’re just getting started.
Throughout the region, we are fortunate to have access to a wide range of education-focused conferences, each offering unique opportunities for professional growth, inspiration, and collaboration. From subject-specific workshops to large-scale leadership forums, these gatherings provide invaluable spaces for educators to connect, share practice, and bring new ideas back to their schools. In this article, teachers from across our community reflect on the conferences they’ve attended and the key takeaways they’re excited to apply.
ELLSA: Empowering Multilingual Classrooms, Beijing, 1st – 2nd March
At the start of March, I was delighted to be afforded the opportunity to attend ELLSA (English Language Learning Specialists in Asia) 2025,
a conference focused on activating thinking and growing academic language, collaborating in teaching and learning, and leveraging translanguaging pedagogies. The conference was attended by over 250 delegates from 14 countries.
One of the most impactful ideas was the remarkable ability of multilingual learners to thrive in an academic environment while studying in a language that is not their mother tongue. The conference reinforced just how powerful bilingualism and multilingualism can be. I was left with an impression of how here at Patana, our students’ resilience, adaptability, and language skills are truly impressive, and these qualities deserve to be recognised and celebrated.
One standout session was titled ‘Scaffolding Up, Not Watering Down’. This session emphasised that multilingual learners should have access to challenging academic content, supported by effective scaffold-
ing strategies. Simplifying texts and tasks too heavily can unintentionally limit students’ exposure to critical thinking and complex language. Instead, by using tools like structured writing frames and carefully designed text adaptations, teachers can ensure that multilingual learners develop the language skills they need to succeed.
Another particularly exciting session explored how artificial intelligence is set to transform language learning. I left feeling inspired by the potential of AI tools to personalise learning, enhance feedback, and provide innovative ways for students to develop their language skills. Since returning from the conference, I’ve already started exploring some of these tools and look forward to seeing how they can support our students in the future.
Above all, the conference reinforced what an incredible job our multilingual learners do every day. Balancing multiple languages while achieving academic success is no
small feat, and our students consistently demonstrate remarkable dedication and resilience. It was a privilege to attend ELLSA 2025, and I am more inspired than ever to support our students as they continue to thrive at Bangkok Patana.
ELLSA: Empowering Multilingual Classrooms, Beijing, 1st – 2nd March
I am grateful to have had the opportunity to attend the 9th ELLSA conference at the International School of Beijing, China. Fun fact: I may be the only teacher who has attended all ELLSA conferences! My involvement with ELLSA began in 2017 when I joined the Board. I also run the ELLSA Bangkok Chapter. The theme of this year’s conference was Empowering Multilingual Classrooms. I attended several insightful sessions, and here
are some of my key takeaways:
• Linguistic Diversity Meets the Science of Reading: Differentiated Instruction for Multilingual Learners – Led by Christian Polizzi and Iryna Zhurenko. A deep dive into utilizing data to inform instruction, differentiate EAL literacy support, and implement a structured framework to tailor teaching for multilingual learners. I enjoyed learning about the ISB framework to support multilingual learners and how they got to the creation of it using the Science of Reading.
• Steal This Workshop –Leading Professional Development at Your School – Led by Jon Nordmeyer, this session explored engaging activities and strategies for facilitating professional learning to build teachers’ capacity to support multilingual students. Jon shared tips and strategies on how to run an engaging workshop.
• Facets of Co-Teaching – This was the scenario-based discussion workshop I led, designed for teachers familiar with the co-teaching model. The focus was on overcoming common challenges, sharing best practices, and enhancing collaboration between co-teachers.
My biggest inspiration was the keynote speaker, Dr. Kate Seltzer, an educational researcher and teacher educator. She co-authored The Translanguaging Classroom: Leveraging Student Bilingualism for Learning with Ofelia García and Susan Ibarra Johnson. Translanguaging is a powerful approach when working with multilingual learners, and Dr. Seltzer’s keynote, “The Pedagogical & Transformative Purposes of Translanguaging,” left me eager to explore it further.
I am excited to continue integrating translanguaging into my teaching and sharing these insights with fellow
educators. The ELLSA conference once again reinforced the importance of empowering multilingual learners and strengthening collaboration among teachers.
ASE South East Asia Conference (Association for Science Education), Bangkok, 21st March
The Association for Science Education South East Asia Conference 2025 brought together passionate science educators from across the region for a day of inspiration, collabo-
ration, and professional growth. Nine Bangkok Patana Teachers attended as well as all four of the Science Technicians for a wonderful and informative CPL session.
The event featured a thought-provoking keynote address by Professor Leigh Hoath, who shared her own experiences in Science Education, alongside a diverse lineup of interactive workshops exploring innovative approaches to science pedagogy. These included some of our very own Bangkok Patana teachers who hosted workshops on Microscale Experiments in Chemistry by Roshanak
Lashkari, Physics Demonstrations that Promote Deep Thinking by Matt Baker and Curriculum Review by Tori Hyman.
All of us attendees left with fresh insights and practical strategies to enhance our teaching, which will have a direct impact on our students within the classroom. A fantastic day of Science CPL!
WISE25 Reflections (Women in International Schools Empowerment), Seoul 21st-23rd March
Community Notice: The Government will be conducting a test of emergency messaging via SMS on 13th May. For more information, please visit this link: https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40049170
If your child(ren) will be leaving Bangkok Patana this term, we warmly invite you to a workshop led by our social-emotional counsellors. This workshop is designed to offer practical strategies for supporting your child through change and provide a supportive space to connect with other families navigating this transition.
Date: Wednesday 14th May
Time: 8:00am
Location: The Hub (upstairs in the Secondary Library)
If you would like to attend, please scan the QR code to sign up to assist with our planning.
What is one of your fondest or favourite reading memories?
One of my fondest reading memories is reading before bedtime with my four sons, diving into The Edge Chronicles by Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell. Each night, we’d journey with Twig, a brave misfit exploring a fantastical world of sky pirates, floating rocks, and mysterious creatures. The rich storytelling and unforgettable adventures of the sky pirates kept us hooked, but it was Riddell’s stunning illustrations that truly brought the stories to life—turning pages felt like entering another realm. Those magical nights sparked lots of laughter, wonder, and imagination, creating cherished memories and a lifelong love of reading that we still share today. Which female fictional character would you most like/least like to meet in real life and why?
If I could meet any fictional character, it would be Tan Yunxian from Lady Tan’s Circle of Women written by Lisa See. Set in 15th-century Ming China, Lady Tan is a rare, educated woman who becomes a respected physician despite societal restrictions. In a time when few women had access to learning, she used her knowledge to heal and support other women, showing how female relationships were the true anchors of society. Her compassion, wisdom, and quiet strength are deeply inspiring. Meeting her would be a chance to learn from a trailblazer who defied convention to uplift others through care, connection and courage.
What is your favourite family and community oriented book?
One of my favourite community-oriented books is Diplomatic Baggage: Adventures of a Trailing Spouse by Times columnist Brigid Keenan. With sharp wit and honesty, she shares the ups and downs of life as a diplomat’s wife, constantly relocating and adapting. It may be of interest to the many “accompanying partners” in our own Bangkok Patana community, who are resilient, supportive, and often unsung heroes. Keenan’s humour shines through cultural mishaps and challenges, showing how laughter can be the best survival tool. Her story is a tribute to building connections, embracing change, and finding belonging wherever life takes you.
FOUNDATION STAGE AND KEY STAGE 1 BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:
Niamh Tyrrell, FS2G Peppa Goes Camping (Ladybird Books)
“I love Peppa Pig books! My favourite
characters are Peppa Pig and Suzy Sheep because they are good friends and always play together.”
In this story, Peppa and her family go on their first camping trip together. Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, George and Peppa experience adventures together but also get a little lost on their journey. Many of their friends, including Danny Dog and Suzy Sheep, are kind and help them to find their way.
Singing Mermaid by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks
The story beautifully illustrates the power of community—when the mermaid finds herself in trouble, it is the friendship and teamwork of her circus companions and a clever seagull that help her escape and return home. This teaches children that even the biggest problems can be overcome with the support and kindness of friends, highlighting the importance of helping one another and working together as a community.
KEY STAGE 2 BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:
Caoimhe Jiaying Jones and Ms Rachel
The Mystery of the Clockwork Sparrow By Katherine Woodfine
It’s the start of a new century, and the streets of London are buzzing with excitement for the grand opening of Sinclair’s department store, the biggest event of the year. Very posh, it has real live mannequins, fancy dresses and even its own restaurant. But most exciting is the exhibition of the most exquisite and expensive collection of jewels, including the wind-up clockwork sparrow! No wonder Sophie is excited for her new job in the millinery department. But there’s a big catch when a crime happens, and Sophie loses her job. It’s up to her friends Lily Rose (an actress) and Billy (who loves crime stories), and a thief called Joe (who used to work for a gang), to solve this mystery. I liked this book because it has got scary scenes, mysteries that keep you guessing and the fact that it is set in the past. You should read this book if you like mysteries like Nancy Drew, history stories like When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit or stories with children heroes like The Ice Children.
Caoimhe Jiaying Jones, 3J
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr
It’s almost the beginning of a war and panicking is happening among the Jews of Germany. Anne and her family move through Europe trying to escape the Nazis. As Anne and her family travel through Europe they see amazing sites, meet new friends, travel on new transportations and learn new languages. As we travel back through time we see how terrifying it was to be hunted, lose people we love and leave our home country behind. Anne and her family keep on losing money as her papa ventures deep into
W EDNESDAY 21 ST M AY 2025
TIME: 8:00AM—9:30AM
VENUE: SPORTS HALL
Please feel free to follow your child and their class around the Sports Day stations and cheer them on in all of the exciting activities that they will encounter.
Richard Kirtland, Assistant Principal, Inclusion & Welfare
We are incredibly fortunate at Bangkok Patana to have such a diverse range of children and families, bringing rich perspectives and experiences to our learning community. However, this diversity, while enriching our school culture, also presents a wide range of challenges in terms of meeting each child’s unique educational needs. One group that deserves focused attention and support is our gifted/highly able learners.
True educational equity means recognising that capability doesn’t eliminate need—rather, it transforms it. The truth is: every highly able student deserves the opportunity to engage in the productive struggle that builds resilience and reveals their potential. However, research tells us that working out who those students are and then how to best meet their needs is something that most international schools find, for multiple reasons, very challenging.
One of the most common reasons is that these students are, quite simply, unseen. They represent what we might call an academic ‘blind spot’— children who perform strongly by conventional measures (for example, tests) but may not be reaching their extraordinary potential. Because they are doing so well academically, they don’t raise any significant academic concerns. As a result, resources are allocated to those who are visibly struggling and the highly able learners are left without the targeted stretch they need.
It’s important to remember that without sufficient challenge, highly able learners often do not make the progress they should and do not sufficiently develop the resilience they will need in later life. To truly thrive, these students need an adapted academic diet—one that offers greater variety, depth, scope, pace and challenge and is responsive to the fact that they often need less time and practice to master the core curriculum. Designing a programme that can consistently meet those needs is no
Victoria Hyman, Curriculum Leader, Physics
We are delighted to recognise the outstanding achievements of our Year 11 and Year 12 students who recently participated in the Physics Olympiad competitions. These prestigious international challenges are designed to stretch and inspire students, encouraging them to apply their knowledge to unfamiliar and thought-provoking problems.
Both the Intermediate Physics Challenge (Year 11) and the Senior Physics Challenge (Year 12) go well beyond the standard curriculum and require significant problem-solving ability, perseverance and creativity. We are incredibly proud of our students for embracing the challenge with enthusiasm and determination.
Our Year 11 students performed exceptionally well, achieving a wide range of awards:
The Gold Award was presented to Richard.
Silver Awards were achieved by Advika, Neil, Zachary, and Zhewen.
Bronze 1 Awards were earned by Win, Tyno, Ollie, Quinn, Sebastian, Veer, Tanna, Teoman, and Vivaan.
Bronze 2 Awards were achieved by Campbell, Dan, Kimi, Jinansh, Punn, Baobao, Al, Veer, and Kim.
Commendation was awarded to Panda.
Our Year 12 students also achieved excellent results in an even more demanding competition:
Gold Awards were awarded to Yanjun and GuiChai.
Silver Awards were earned by Ethan, Matthew and Dhruv.
Bronze Awards were achieved by Aaku, Ryan, Diana, Amber, Kathrina, Nana, Minju and Daniel.
These results reflect not only the students’ academic abilities, but also their willingness to engage with advanced content and persevere through highly challenging tasks.
Congratulations to everyone involved. We look forward to seeing how your interest in physics continues to develop in the future.
Any students interested in taking part in next year’s Physics Olympiad are warmly encouraged to get in touch with Mrs Hyman for more information.
David Larking, Curriculum Leader, Instrumental Music and Khun Wanpiya Kittikunsiri, Piano Teacher
The piano programme at Bangkok Patana School continues to go from strength to strength, inspiring young musicians and bringing the joy of music to our entire community. From weekly private lessons to major performances and international recognition, our piano students are making remarkable strides.
We are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our piano students at the 12th Hong Kong International Performance Arts Festival and Music Competition. Their performances were exceptional, earning them international recognition and awards:
- Rosalyn Laosirichon (2F) – First Place
- Pakin Hsu (2K) – Third Place
- Eva Cretallaz-Speich (6S) – Third Place
- Philip Duckworth (11C) – Second Place
Their hard work and dedication have truly paid off. These outstanding results are a reflection of the students’ hard work, perseverance and love for music. A heartfelt thank you goes to all the parents for their support and partnership—success in music requires both tenacity, creativity and regular, ongoing practice. This achievement reflects the strong collaboration between teachers, students, and families. Their piano teacher, K. Wanpiya Kittikunsiri (K. Jeans), inspired these four students to participate in this fantastic competition. Congratulations to all students, and a sincere thank you to the parents whose ongoing support makes this journey possible.
“I am delighted to be part of my students’ musical journey. I encourage creativity, confidence and expression so they can improve steadily and stay motivated. I focus on making learning effective and enjoyable while helping each student grow in their own way.”
— Mr. Wanpiya Kittikunsiri, Piano Teacher
To register your child for private piano or instrumental lessons, please contact K. Sak at pech@patana.c.th or scan the QR code provided and complete the online application.
Let the music play on!
Here are some takeaways from Dr. Ross Osmun’s visit.
“I had a very rare chance to take a piano lesson with Dr. Osmun; kind and patient with an easy to understand teaching style. I learned detailed aspects of piano playing such as pedaling, colors and pacing. My lesson with Dr. Osmun made a huge difference in my expression, layers, and musicality. This experience was really inspirational.”
— Dave Cheung, Year 8 student
“A refreshing week getting back to the heart of music. Ross was inspiring and was able to connect with different groups of students by sharing his passion and performance tips. My favourite moment was when he spoke candidly about his practice habits.”
— Laura MacRitchie, Co-ordinator of Secondary Music
“Dr. Osmun had some brilliant advice for all students (and staff!) on how to maximise their practice time, keep their focus and continue improving even when away from the instrument. His enthusiasm for music was infectious and brought a huge amount of inspiration to all in the Patana Secondary Music Department.”
— Rosie Brown, Secondary Music Teacher
“I found that my time with Dr. Osmun was extremely valuable. Having the opportunity to have a one on one session with a professor with that much experience was something I am incredibly grateful for. I was given specific advice and tips for playing and practicing on the piano that I would never have gotten otherwise. I also was able to talk about music composition and film music with him which I found very helpful given that is what I want to pursue in the future. The piano masterclass was another great experience. Although I was nervous at first because I had never done anything like this, everyone, including Dr. Osmun, were supportive; I am very thankful that I was invited to the masterclass and the opportunity to have a private lesson.”
— Basile Humbert, Year 12 IB music student
Ricky Jain, 13L
Super Satang is a student-run initiative dedicated to making financial literacy more accessible. Through interactive programs and activities, we aim to equip students with practical money management skills. The club is open to students in Year 10 and above.
For younger students, the Silicon Valley Innovation Academy ECA (from Stanford Moonshots Program, SVIA) provides another way to explore financial education and entrepreneurship.
Super Satang provides opportunities for students to engage in financial education in a hands-on way:
Silicon Valley Innovation Academy ECA (from Stanford Moonshots Program, SVIA) – A Shark Tank-style competition where groups are paired with a mentor to develop and refine a business idea. The program concludes with a pitch to Economics and Business teachers, with the winning team receiving a prize and a certificate. The ECA will resume in Term 1 next year.
Mentor Mind Podcast – Features discussions with business leaders and financial experts. Members can contribute by suggesting guests, developing content, or co-hosting episodes.
Super Satang Newsletter – A newsletter designed to teach financial literacy concepts, covering topics such as saving, investing, budgeting, and entrepreneurship in an engaging and easy-to-understand way. Join the newsletter here: Super Satang Newsletter
Published Financial Literacy Book – A resource introducing key financial concepts to young people, with ongoing expansion opportunities.
Financial Literacy Classes for Schools – In collaboration with Saturday School, we provide lessons for Thai students on topics like budgeting, saving, and investing.
Super Satang received a Special Commendation from the MAIA Awards in the School Project category. We also collaborate with Teach for Thailand to provide teachers with financial literacy resources for student learning.
Financial Literacy Card Game – A game designed to introduce stocks, financial goals, and life decisions in an interactive format. Currently in development.
Financial Literacy Workbook – A structured resource intended to complement our online course and support financial literacy lessons.
Kiera (Nurse Joe) Augsorntip, Medical Services Manager
Last week, Bangkok Patana School was proud to host a Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR Training Session for our parent community, in collaboration with the expert team from Bangkok Hospital. The session was led by Dr Somchintana Iamsanpang, Emergency Medicine Specialist, and her dedicated nursing instructors.
Nearly 50 participants took part in hands-on training focused on CPR, AED use and first aid. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with parents reporting increased confidence in emergency response.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Bangkok Hospital team for their professionalism, support, and commitment to community health education.
Due to high interest, a second session will be opening soon!
Stay tuned for registration details.
Roblox has introduced new parental control features to enhance the safety and oversight of children’s accounts. Parents can now link their own accounts to their children’s accounts, allowing them to block specific users, restrict access to certain games, and monitor screen time. Additionally, the Roblox Safety Center has been updated to provide a comprehensive hub of resources, guidance, and reporting tools, emphasizing the importance of education and open communication for safer online experiences. Parents are encouraged to have open conversations with their children about these controls to build trust and promote responsible digital behaviour.
Find out more here: New Tools for Parents to Personalize Their Child’s Experience on Roblox
Brian Taylor Vice Principal, Technology for Learning
Ana Bolakoso 10V, Tiger Sports Council
For student-athletes, the school year often revolves around Seasons 1 to 3 — packed calendars, daily training, weekend fixtures, and regional travel for events like SEASAC and FOBISIA. But what about Season 4? Often seen as a quieter period, the off-season is actually a golden opportunity to reset, rebuild, and get ahead — both athletically and academically. Here’s how studentathletes can make Season 4 count.
Without the pressure of weekly competition, the offseason is perfect for refining sport-specific skills. Whether it’s adjusting your shooting technique, perfecting your footwork, or increasing your reaction speed, this is the time to break down mechanics and rebuild them better. Small group or individual coaching sessions, video analysis, and skill drills can elevate performance before the next season begins.
High-level sport places repeated stress on the same muscle groups, often leading to imbalances that increase the risk of injury. Season 4 is the ideal time to work with strength and conditioning coaches to assess and address these issues. A well-structured gym programme should include mobility work, core stability, and strength-building tailored to your sport. Fixing weaknesses now leads to fewer injuries and better performance later. Year12 and 13 have gym priviledges before and after school once you’ve completed the induction programme, and for everyone else don’t forget the Tuesday/Thursday morning S & C available at the Shark Tank.
Cross-training is a fantastic way to maintain fitness without the mental and physical strain of constant repetition. Swimming, yoga, dance, pilates, or even a different sport entirely can improve your cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and coordination. It also keeps training fun and varied, giving your mind a break from the rigours of competitive play while still making progress. Check out the Block 4 ECA options.
Season 4 should also be a time for psychological recovery. Burnout is real — especially for student-athletes balancing academic pressures with high-level sport.
Monchaya Khuptawinthu, Parent
Alpha delivered an outstanding performance at the Thailand Dressage Championships Qualifier #3, held at the Veterinary and Remount Department in Nakhon Pathom. Competing in six classes, Alpha secured five first-place finishes and one second place. Notably, he won both the Elementary and Novice categories of the national championships. His results exceeded expectations, outperforming members of the Thai National Team, including an Olympic rider.
Piyada Thianthai, Parent
Sheen achieved outstanding results at the International Ballet Grandprix 2025. She won the Contemporary Grand Prize Award (highest score), 1st Prize in Contemporary Dance, and 2nd Prize in Ballet. She also received multiple scholarships, including 100% tuition for The Place and London Contemporary Dance School’s Summer School, a full scholarship for NAFA’s BAPM dance classes, and direct entry to an audition for NAFA’s Diploma in Dance with a fee waiver. Sheen was also named a Harlequin Floor Cash Prize Winner.
Sahatat Asawapiwat, Parent
Congratulations to Prim, 9S on her achievements in figure skating. She was awarded 2nd runner-up in the Intermediate Novice category at the Thailand 40th Youth Games, and also claimed 3rd runner-up in Level 6 at the Thailand National Figure Skating Championship.