Recently, the NACIS Douyin account published a post titled "Summer Campus Transformation," which sparked great anticipation after witnessing the updates and renovations of the facilities. Many students expressed their excitement in the comments section, asking,
"Who can help me count down the days until school starts?"
The first group to experience the transformed NACIS campus was the G1 students.
During a week-long period, these students became the "little experience officers," embarking on a unique journey as "trainee primary students." They not only immersed themselves in inquiry-based learning typical of primary education but also had the opportunity to unveil the "mysteries" of their new classmates and teachers, enjoying a week filled with joy, exploration, and meaningful interactions.
The New Student Summer Camp is a traditional and distinctive programme at NACIS, designed to help G1 and G6 students acclimate to their new lives. Each year, the heads and teachers return early to design a week-long curriculum filled with diverse activities, enabling children to adapt to their "new identities." This year, the G1 summer camp not only facilitated a smooth transition from preschool to primary school, but also helped shorten the adjustment period, allowing every family to experience the unique atmosphere and warmth.
A Vibrant Day Begins with the Homeroom Time!
On the first day of the summer camp, the children stepped onto the campus, commencing their journey as "trainee primary students." From the moment they signed in, the theme of the day revolved around making new friends.
"Say hello to the heads and teachers!"
"Sit next to the friend you wish to befriend!"
These were the initial scenes encountered by the G1 newcomers at NACIS. However, the initial shyness and unfamiliarity dissipated with the warmth of the teachers.
Each child received "one-on-one time" with their form tutors upon entering the classroom, during which the teacher engaged them in conversations about their interests,
past experiences, and the exciting journey ahead. Such comforting words undoubtedly helped alleviate any anxieties the children may have had, allowing them to take a solid step toward becoming true primary students.
Each day of the summer camp begins with the homeroom time, marking the students' first lesson at NACIS - familiarizing themselves with their class.
At NACIS, students experience the joy of education through respect, discovery, and self-expression. Teachers explain class rules in engaging ways, such as discussing reward systems, how to ask questions and express opinions, thereby instilling high expectations and enthusiasm for each day's lessons.
An Immersive English Environment During the Language Sensitive Period!
Research in neuroscience indicates that children under the age of seven are in a language-sensitive period, possessing the capacity to acquire two languages simultaneously. However, many parents struggle with how to harness the crucial time to ensure their children master English. At NACIS, it has never been a source of anxiety for parents.
Last semester, during the TOEFL Junior held at NACIS, two primary students scored an impressive 895 points, while two others achieved 890 points, and nearly ten students scored above 850. The secret behind these remarkable results lies in the international form tutor system for G1 and G2 students at NACIS.
To enhance the children's "native-like" experience with English, NACIS has implemented an international form tutor system for G1 and G2 students, reducing the children's reliance on national teachers. Particularly in G1, all form tutors come from the UK, possessing authentic London accents and extensive teaching experience. In addition, subjects such as art, PE, and STEAM are taught in English, providing children with more opportunities for in-depth interactions with international teachers. The immersive English environment enhances the children's natural affinity for the language, thereby increasing their exposure to English.
From the very first day that children enter NACIS,
they begin to experience, imitate, and learn both authentic expressions of spoken language and the rigorous standards of academic English
. Daily English classes are an indispensable component of the summer camp experience. Teachers employ a variety of engaging activities, including reading picture books, storytelling, games, painting, and interactive exercises, to enhance cognitive engagement, verbal expression, and physical involvement. The implementation of a full international form tutor system in the lower primary is a pioneering initiative among bilingual schools in Shanghai, which exemplifies the ample and stable reserve of international teachers and serves as a tangible manifestation of our educational philosophy and vision.
During the past 8 years since establishment, NACIS has continually optimized and adjusted its English language teaching practices, exploring a growth path for English language acquisition that is more suitable for its students.
The concept of "bilingualism" serves not merely as a tool for communication but also embodies the confidence that children develop in a multicultural environment. It fosters deep thinking and capabilities in students, laying a solid foundation for holistic development and lifelong learning.
Subject Learning: Exploring the Joys of the Classroom!
