CO N TE N TS UPDATES 4
From Our Chair
5
From Our CEO
6
Board Members and Headquarters
7
FOBISIA Members
8
FOBISIA 2025-26 Calendar of events
11
A Conversation with…
12
FOBISIA - Making Connections
STAFF EVENT HIGHLIGHTS 20
32nd FOBISIA Leadership Conference
24
FOBISIA Music Teachers’ Conference
30
FOBISIA Drama Conference
36
A New Record: Reflecting on The FOBISIA PE & Sport Conference 2025
STUDENT EVENT HIGHLIGHTS 22
Senior Drama Festival 2025: “Make Me Feel Mighty Real”
26
Hardy–Ramanujan Alpha Mathematics Challenge
28
18 & Under Volleyball Invitational Championships
32
Maths Codebreaking Competition
34
Bridge Designer Competition
38
Advanced Choral and Orchestral Festival
40
The FOBISIA Games Through Our Community’s Eyes
43
U15 FOBISIA Games
GUEST CONTRIBUTOR 42
FOBISIA.tv Launches with 1 Play
FOBISIA FELLOWSHIP 48
What If Nobody Talks to Me?
50
A FOBISIA Fellow’s Reflections on the 2025 Leadership Conference
FOBISIA MEMBERS 52
Our Member Schools
54
Our Affiliate Members
LET'S CONNECT
FOBISIA CONNECT LIKE US ON
LIKE US ON
LIKE US ON
VISIT US ON
YOUTUBE
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Vector images from freepik.com ABOUT THE FOBISIAN A termly eMagazine for sharing events and news among the membership. Three issues are published each academic year. If you would like to contribute, email: design@fobisia.org.
EDITOR'S NOTE
FOBISIA's TERMLY MAGAZINE
Dear Readers, Welcome to the 49th issue of The FOBISIAN Magazine! We’re delighted to bring you a collection of stories, events, and celebrations that have shaped the first half of our academic year across the FOBISIA community. In this edition, staff events take the spotlight with highlights from the 32nd FOBISIA Leadership Conference, as well as the Music Teachers’, Drama, and PE & Sport Conferences. Each gathering reflects the shared expertise, creativity, and collaboration that make our educator community so special. Our student pages are bursting with excitement, from maths challenges and design competitions to performing arts festivals and major sporting fixtures, including the 18 & Under Volleyball Invitational and the U15 FOBISIA Games. Their enthusiasm and achievements remind us why we do what we do. We are also delighted to feature a contribution on the launch of FOBISIA.tv, along with thoughtful reflections from our FOBISIA Fellows, who offer insights and experiences from across our network. We hope this issue leaves you feeling inspired, connected, and proud of the remarkable work happening across all our Member Schools. Bunjopporn (Yoke) Kittrell
PUBLISHER FOBISIA EDITOR Bunjopporn (Yoke) Kittrell CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE Vanita Uppal OBE The British School New Delhi John Gwyn Jones MBE, Shana Kongmun, Janine Minchin, Dawn Jones, Swati Sinha Bedi FOBISIA HQ Andrew Chambers British International School, Phuket Danielle Foyle North London Collegiate School (Singapore) Debra Jones Kellett School Hong Kong Gareth Groves British International School Ho Chi Min City Helen Bamford Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong James Tosdevin Nexus International School, Malaysia Jason Bilinkewycz Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok Riverside Jef Gille St. Andrews International School Bangkok Alumni Dr Jins Jose The British School in Colombo Mohit Lalvani 1 Play Global Pte Ltd Neil Matthews Lanna International School Thailand Paul Hannon, Sophie Maclang The British School Manila Todd Skevington Marlborough College Malaysia
FOBISIA now accepts payments via credit card
W. Harrison Engle II Amnuay Silpa School
(subject to 3.5% processing fee*)
*email accounts@fobisia.org for a payment link
THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
3
FROM
OUR CHAIR Vanita Uppal OBE FOBISIA Chair Director The British School New Delhi
Welcome from Chair Now that we have brought Term 1 to a close and have moved into the start of Term 2, it is heartening to look back at the energy and sense of purpose that have shaped the first part of our academic year. Term 1 has reminded all of us just how important human connection is across the Federation—how much we gain from working together, learning from one another, and supporting both our staff and our students to flourish. Across our Member Schools, we have seen colleagues reconnect, new partnerships form, and students joining events with enthusiasm. The strength of the FOBISIA network lies in this spirit of collegiality: the willingness to share best practices, offer support, and create opportunities that extend far beyond individual classrooms or campuses. It is this collective commitment that continues to make our Federation such a vibrant and inclusive community. The recent FOBISIA Leadership Conference was a resounding success, further strengthening our shared vision and highlighting the impact of collaborative leadership across the Federation. Although I was sadly unable to attend for personal reasons, I have heard nothing but wonderful feedback. A heartfelt thank you goes to John, our CEO, and the HQ team for their hard work and dedication in making this event such a memorable and inspiring occasion. Looking ahead to Term 2, there is much to be excited about. The calendar is already full, with a wide range of student events, academic and sporting opportunities, and a rich programme of CPD for staff at every stage of their professional journey. These experiences not only broaden horizons but strengthen the connections that hold our community together. Thank you to all Heads, teachers, support staff, and students for the dedication and commitment you have shown throughout Term 1. As we begin Term 2, I look forward to building on the momentum of these past months and to seeing our community continue to grow, collaborate, and thrive.
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FROM
OUR CEO
John Gwyn Jones MBE FOBISIA CEO
Forward from the CEO Dear Colleagues, I am delighted to reflect on the significant progress and shared successes across our FOBISIA community over the first term of the 2025-26 Academic Year It has been a term defined by purposeful collaboration, exceptional participation, and a continued commitment to delivering excellence for our staff and students. Along with our Member Schools, we successfully hosted five FOBISIA conferences, each exceptionally well attended and demonstrating the strength of professional engagement across our region. We were also pleased to welcome four new Member Schools into the Federation, strengthening our collective voice and broadening our collaborative community. Our student events have once again showcased the very best of FOBISIA. In sport, this term saw the successful delivery of our representative team selection tournaments in football, rugby, and basketball, ensuring that our students continue to benefit from high-level opportunities and pathways. We had 33 schools participate in the Under 15 Friendly Games, along with five Invitational sports events that provided enriching competition and fellowship.
This term also marked the continuation of two important professional learning initiatives: the 2025–26 Fellows Programme, and the Heads Coaching Programme, both of which will further enhance leadership capability and professional growth across our network. In addition, our new partnership with the Chartered College of Teaching offers valuable opportunities for teacher development and accreditation. These achievements, collectively, are a testament to the dedication of our Heads, staff, students, and the wider FOBISIA community. Your commitment, professionalism, and shared values underpin everything we do and ensure that FOBISIA remains a trusted and forward-thinking association. I would like to pay tribute to my colleagues at FOBISIA HQ, not only for the commitment they give to their roles and the amazing work they do for our member schools, but also how remarkable they were in delivering our Annual Leadership Conference, which was given huge positive recognition by the participants in the feedback we have received. Let me wish you all a very successful second term of this academic year.
In the performing arts and academics, we hosted 11 high-quality events, reflecting the breadth and vibrancy of learning experiences available across FOBISIA schools. THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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BOARD MEMBERS
Vanita Uppal OBE
Chair Director The British School New Delhi
Nick Sheehan
Caroline Drumm
Duncan Stonehouse
Vice Chair & Strategic Plan
Secretary & Communications
Treasurer & HQ Support
Principal Jerudong International School Brunei
Principal
Head of School
The British School Kathmandu
Bangkok International Preparatory & Secondary School
Steve Shaw
Amos Turner-Wardell
David Ingram
Student Events Academic & Performing Arts
PE & Sport
Membership
Principal
Principal
Headmaster
The ABC International School
Regents International School Pattaya
Dulwich College (Singapore)
Simon Mills
Craig Considine
Sian May
Safeguarding
CPD
Heads Support
Headmaster
CEO
Head of School
Haileybury Almaty
Tanglin Trust School
The Alice Smith School, Kuala Lumpur
HEAD QUARTERS
SINGAPORE SOCIETY 95 Portsdown Road, 139299, SINGAPORE
THAILAND Headquarters 39/4 Todsamon Clubhouse Building, Mezzanine Floor Soi LaSalle 39/1, Sukhumvit 105, Bangna, Bangkok 10260 THAILAND
John Gwyn Jones MBE
Shana Kongmun
Swati Sinha Bedi
Chief Executive Officer
Executive Operations Manager
CPD & Safeguarding Executive
eom@fobisia.org
cpd-safeguarding@fobisia.org
Janine Minchin
Dawn Jones
Student Events Executive
Marketing & Communications Executive
Jitsaman (Pheung) Chan
student-events@fobisia.org
marketing@fobisia.org
Bunjopporn (Yoke) Kittrell
Salinee (Tai) Chooputtaphong
Siriphorn (Phorn) Sungkorn
Design & Communications Executive
Membership & Administration Executive
Administrative Assistant PA to the CEO
design@fobisia.org
info@fobisia.org
admin@fobisia.org
ceo@fobisia.org
Accounts Executive accounts@fobisia.org
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AFFILIATE MEMBERS We understand the importance of providing our School Members with support to enhance their educational journey. That's why we highly value our Affiliate Members, who play a vital role in offering valuable products and services to meet the unique needs of our Schools. Our Affiliate Members encompass a diverse array of organisations and businesses that cater to the educational sector. From curriculum providers and technology companies to school furniture suppliers and professional development trainers, these members bring a wealth of expertise and offerings to our network. As a Member School, if you are looking for specific products or services, we encourage you to explore the offerings of our Affiliate Members. Reach out to them and mention you are a FOBISIA Member School as many offer discounts or special deals. See all of our Affiliate Members on the website here
FRIENDS OF FOBISIA Our Friends of FOBISIA Membership consists of a limited number of British international schools located outside of Asia, with the aim of strengthening our connections beyond the region. See all of our Friends of FOBISIA Members on the website here
INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS Individual Members are a growing group of people who were previous Heads of School in a FOBISIA School. Their membership helps us to maintain an active network of experienced leaders and we can benefit from the knowledge and experience that they bring. We acknowledge those Individual Members who were also former Chairs of the FOBISIA Board or Founding Members as Honorary Individual Members. See all of our Individual Members on the website here THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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Staff events:
FOBISIA
2025-26 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Student events:
Refer to Member Support page on www.fobisia.org for calendar updates. Dates for in-person events do not include travel days (with the exception of the FOBISIA Games). FOBISIA events may be subject to change.
JANUARY 2026 AQ
09/01 - 10/01
Academic
Chess Championship Ages 7 - 18
Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Riverside
09/01 - 11/01
Academic
Student Leadership Conference Key Stages 3 - 5
Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar
16/01 - 17/01
JAWS
Middle Leadership JAWS: Middle Leader JAWS
The British School in Tokyo
16/01 - 17/01
Sport Inv'l
Volleyball U15
Rugby School Thailand
17/01
Sport Inv'l
Touch Rugby Invitational U14, U16, 18 & Under
Marlborough College Malaysia
23/01
JAWS
EAL JAWS: Building Solid Foundations - Developing a WellCancelled Structured Pathway for Foundation English Programs
Nexus International School, Malaysia
23/01 - 25/01
Sport Inv'l
23/01 - 25/01
Sport Inv'l
29/01 - 30/01
FOBISIA Swimming - Division 1 Event @ Rugby School Thailand
Ages 9 - 18
Rugby School Thailand
FOBISIA Swimming - Division 2 Event @ Thanyapura, Phuket
Ages 9 - 18
Amnuay Silpa School & Teems Global
Sport Inv'l
Climbing @ Camp5 KL East U11, U13, U15, 18 & Under
Sri KDU International School (Kota Damansara)
30/01
JAWSConference
SEND/SENDCO JAWS-Conference
Bangkok International Preparatory & Secondary School and St. Andrews International School Bangkok
30/01 - 31/01
Music
Battle of the Bands Key Stages 3 - 5
Denla British School
FEBRUARY 2026 AQ
06/02
JAWS
ECA/Student Leadership JAWS: Student Leadership from KS3 - KS5
Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok Riverside
06/02 - 07/02
Academic
Secondary Maths Competition Years 7 - 8
Bangkok Patana School
06/02 - 08/02
Academic
Model United Nations Key Stages 4 - 5
Jerudong International School
06/02 - 08/02
Sport Inv'l
Gymnastics @ The Yard, Perennial Business City, Singapore WAG Levels 2-8, MAG Levels 1-8
Dulwich College (Singapore) & Teems Global
18/02 - 22/02
Sport Games
U13 Games - Turquoise Group* (If required)
Sports Management Worldwide
23/02 - 27/02
Sport Games
U13 Games - Orange Group
Sports Management Worldwide
27/02 - 28/02
Sport Inv'l
Netball U15
The Alice Smith School Kuala Lumpur
27/02 - 28/02
Sport Inv'l
Football U11
Shrewsbury International School Bangkok
27/02 - 01/03
Sport Inv'l
FOBISIA Tennis Invitational @ True Tennis Arena U10, U11
Hua Hin International School & Teems Global
28/02
Academic
Chess Competition (online) Years 5 - 13
British School Jakarta
28/02 - 04/03
Sport Games
U13 Games - Pink Group
Sports Management Worldwide
28/02 - 05/03
Sport Inv’l
FOBISIA Representative Team International tour to Dubai 18 & Under: Basketball, Football, Rugby
FOBISIA / Twedex
MARCH 2026 AQ
02/03
eJAWSConference
Senior Leaders e-JAWS Conference
Dulwich College (Singapore)
06/03
eJAWS
University Counselling eJAWS: University and Careers Preparation in International Contexts
The British School Kathmandu
06/03 - 07/03
Academic
Student Environmental Conference: Sustainability Key Stages 3 - 5
Bangkok Patana School
06/03 - 07/03
Academic
Primary Maths Challenge Years 5 - 6
Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong & Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi
06/03 - 08/03
Sport Inv'l
FOBISIA Tennis Invitational @ True Tennis Arena U13, U15, Over 15
Hua Hin International School & Teems Global
06/03 - 10/03
Sport Games
U13 Games - Blue Group
Sports Management Worldwide
09/03 - 12/03
Drama
Junior Drama Festival Ages 11 - 14
Taipei European School
09/03 - 24/03
Academic
Animate It: Short Film and Animation Festival Key Stages 2 - 5
The International School @ Park City
11/03 - 15/03
Sport Games
U13 Games - Purple Group
Sports Management Worldwide
12/03 - 16/03
Music
Primary Music Festival Years 5 - 6
Harrow International School Bangkok
13/03 - 14/03
Sport Inv'l
Basketball U15
Kings College Bangkok
13/03 - 15/03
Academic
STEM Challenge: FOBISIA KidWind Key Stages 3 - 4
Taipei European School
16/03 - 18/03
Sport Inv'l
Golf @ Mimosa Plus Golf Course U11, U13, U15, 18 & Under
The British School Manila
17/03 - 21/03
Sport Games
U13 Games - Green Group
Sports Management Worldwide
19/03 - 21/03
Conference
CPD Leaders' Conference
Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong
20/03 - 21/03
Sport Inv'l
Basketball U11
Rugby School Thailand
22/03 - 26/03
Sport Games
U13 Games - Yellow Group
Sports Management Worldwide
26/03 - 27/03
JAWS
A Cross-Departmental Approach to Engaging English Learning JAWS
Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar
27/03
eJAWS
Metacognition eJAWS: Metacognitive Strategies to Meet the Needs of All Learners
Jerudong International School Brunei
27/03 - 31/03
Sport Games
U13 Games - White Group
Sports Management Worldwide
APRIL 2026 AQ
20/04 - 24/04
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - Turquoise Group
Sports Management Worldwide
23/04 - 25/04
Conference
FOBISIA Business Conference
Teems & Kings College Bangkok
23/04 - 26/04
Music
Intermediate Music Festival: Video Game Music Key Stages 3 - 5
Wellington College International Shanghai
24/04 - 25/04
Sport Inv'l
Football U13
Shrewsbury International School Bangkok
24/04 - 25/04
Sport Inv'l
Football U15
Rugby School Thailand
25/04 - 29/04
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - Orange Group
Sports Management Worldwide
MAY 2026 AQ
01/05 - 05/05
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - Pink Group
Sports Management Worldwide
06/05 - 10/05
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - Purple Group
Sports Management Worldwide
08/05
eJAWS
Enhancing Student Engagement in Science eJAWS
The International School @ ParkCity
08/05 - 09/05
Sport Inv'l
Badminton U13, U15
Singapore International School of Bangkok
11/05
eJAWS
Primary Writing eJAWS: Enhancing Writing Standards A Day of Primary Writing Moderation for International Schools End of KS1 and KS2 - Year 2 and 6
The British School Kathmandu
12/05
eJAWS
Coaching/Mentoring eJAWS
North London Collegiate School Jeju
13/05 - 17/05
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - Blue Group
Sports Management Worldwide
14/05
eJAWS
Co-Curricular and House Leaders eJAWS: Cultivating Community - The Power of House and Co-Curricular Involvement
Haileybury Almaty
15/05
eJAWS
Teaching Assistants eJAWS: Classroom Assistants, Developing Best Practice
The International School @ ParkCity
15/05 - 16/05
Sport Inv'l
Netball U13
The Alice Smith School Kuala Lumpur
19/05 - 23/05
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - Green Group
Sports Management Worldwide
20/05 - 23/05
Drama
Primary Drama Festival Ages 9 - 11
British School Jakarta
21/05 - 23/05
Conference
FOBISIA Safeguarding and Pastoral Care Conference
Kellett School, Hong Kong
22/05
eJAWS
Psychology and Sociology eJAWS: Sociology and Psychology Beyond the Curriculum
Shenzhen College of International Education
25/05 - 29/05
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - Yellow Group
Sports Management Worldwide
29/05
JAWS
Business and Economics JAWS
British Vietnamese International School Ho Chi Minh City
31/05 - 04/06
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - Red Group
Sports Management Worldwide
JUNE 2026 AQ
02/06
eJAWS
Positive Behaviour eJAWS: Ready, Respectful, Responsible - Embedding a Positive Behaviour Culture
Haileybury Almaty
05/06 - 09/06
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - White Group
Sports Management Worldwide
10/06 - 14/06
Sport Games
Primary (U11) Games - Magenta Group* (If required)
Sports Management Worldwide
TBC
JAWS
Secondary Maths JAWS
TBC
A CONVERSATION WITH...
A NEW FOBISIA MEMBER SCHOOL
NEIL MATTHEWS FROM LANNA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL IN CHIANG MAI THAILAND ANSWERS SOME QUESTIONS ON THEIR FIRST YEAR AS MEMBERS
Q:
HOW HAVE YOU FOUND YOUR FIRST YEAR AS PART OF THE FOBISIA COMMUNITY?
Since joining FOBISIA in 2024, Lanna International School has had an incredibly positive first year of membership. As a long-established international school in Chiang Mai, joining a network of such high-calibre British-international schools has been energising for our staff, students, and leadership team. Our school community has felt genuinely welcomed by the FOBISIA leadership and member schools and we have appreciated the opportunity to share expertise, best practice, and regional perspectives. It has provided LANNA with a sense of professional belonging within Thailand and beyond and it has affirmed our commitment to continual improvement.
Q:
WHAT MOTIVATED LANNA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL TO JOIN FOBISIA?
Our decision to join FOBISIA in 2024 was driven by a number of goals. The opportunity to give our students wider avenues to participate in sports, arts, leadership and inter-school enrichment was at the forefront, as well as being able to provide our staff with access to professional learning, collaboration and leadership development. As a school leader, I firmly believe that we are stronger when we work together and to be part of a network that values integrity, high standards and the holistic development of young people is an opportunity not to be missed.
Q:
HAVE YOUR STAFF OR STUDENTS TAKEN PART IN ANY FOBISIA EVENTS THIS YEAR? IF SO, WHAT HAS THE EXPERIENCE BEEN LIKE FOR THEM?
Yes. In our first year, several staff members joined FOBISIA subject networks, online CPD sessions, and leadership webinars. These opportunities have broadened professional horizons, strengthened connections, and helped our teachers see how their work aligns with regional standards of excellence. A highlight of our first year of FOBISIA membership was sending a team of athletes to participate in the Friendly Games. This was such a wonderful experience for our students to meet and compete with students in schools across Asia. Our students grew in confidence and developed their sporting skills in a supportive and fun environment. While we are still early in planning for student involvement, the initial opportunities such as the Friendly Games, have already generated excitement among our student leaders, athletes, and performing arts participants. Our community is enthusiastic about expanding student participation next year. A highlight for me and a number of my colleagues was the opportunity to attend the recent FOBISIA Leadership Conference in Kuala Lumpur. Having joined LANNA in July 2025, this was my first experience of FOBISIA and to receive such a warm welcome and the highest quality of conference both in terms of organisation and content, was absolutely wonderful. The themes of the conference were Innovation, AI and Holistic Leadership and the keynote speakers, workshops and networking opportunities fully embraced this. I very much look forward to staff across our school engaging in similar FOBISIA events in the years to come.
Q:
ONE OF YOUR STAFF MEMBERS WAS SELECTED AS A FOBISIA FELLOW FOR THIS YEAR’S COHORT. WHAT IMPACT HAS THIS HAD (OR WILL HAVE) ON YOUR SCHOOL OR STAFF COMMUNITY?
Yes, Matthew Whitwell, our Secondary Deputy Headteacher, was successful in becoming a FOBISIA Fellow for this year. I have discussed what this means with Matthew and he explained that 'being selected as a FOBISIA Fellow for 2025/26 is a huge honour for both myself and LANNA, amplifying our efforts in developing a student-centred community that promotes opportunities for student voice and authentic engagement. The purpose of our research is to further develop what we do in promoting student voice, by developing a blueprint for FOBISIA schools to embed a culture of student leadership in schools across the region. By making this a participatory action-research project, with students leading the research themselves, we are staying true to the values we hold dear, and ensuring that "every voice matters." I am proud to have been awarded a FOBISIA Fellowship for 2025/26, and representing LANNA as a school at the forefront of promoting student-centred learning'.
Q:
ARE THERE ANY PARTICULAR EVENTS OR OPPORTUNITIES YOU ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THE COMING YEAR?
We are especially looking forward to increasing student participation in FOBISIA sports and performing arts. We are planning to engage more deeply in the subject networks and join specialist conferences in leadership, safeguarding, curriculum design etc. It would also be wonderful if we were able to host or co-host FOBISIA workshops or events at our school. Ultimately, we are most excited about building long-term relationships with other schools across the network to support exchanges, shared projects and professional visits.
Q:
HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR SCHOOL’S INVOLVEMENT IN FOBISIA DEVELOPING IN THE FUTURE?
Over the next few years, we aim to fully embed and embrace FOBISIA-related opportunities into our annual professional development program. We are driven to become a regular contributor to regional events and position ourselves as an active, forward-thinking school within the network. We very much want to increase the number of students representing LANNA in FOBISIA events and also explore opportunities to host events in Chiang Mai.
THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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FOBISIA - MAKING CONNECTIONS FOBISIA CEO John Gwyn Jones MBE, along with the HQ team and Heads' Membership Visit Group, have been actively engaging in the region and beyond to represent FOBISIA and foster stronger connections.
The British International Schools Safeguarding Coalition (BISSC) held a high level consultation at the UK House of Lords, A special thank you to Nick Sheehan (FOBISIA Vice Chair) and Roisin Pearson NPQH (FOBISIA Safeguarding Executive Committee Chair) for joining John Gwyn Jones MBE at this important meeting. It was valuable to have their support and insight.
We were honoured to have George Freeman FRSA, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines and Brunei, join the FOBISIA Board, and HQ team for lunch in Kuala Lumpur. It was a welcome opportunity to highlight the importance of the Federation and the role of British schools in our region. We truly appreciated the time he spent with us.
Our guest of honour, H.E. Ajay Sharma, British High Commissioner to Malaysia, joined us and shared his supportive words for our community at the opening reception of our 32nd FOBISIA Leadership Conference.
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John was invited to attend the AoBSO (Association of British Schools Overseas) at their Annual Conference in London. We value this important relationship with other British school associations. It was also a pleasure to catch up with colleagues from across our community during the conference.
FOBISIA was honoured to lay a wreath at the Service of Remembrance hosted by the British Embassy Bangkok, paying tribute to those who served and sacrificed. Our sincere thanks to FOBISIA Board Member, Duncan Stonehouse, for representing FOBISIA at this important occasion.
CEO John Gwyn Jones MBE, Simon Burbury, Headmaster of Marlborough College Malaysia, and Craig Considine, CEO of Tanglin Trust School, visited The Winstedt School 22-23 September.
Martin Towse, Principal of St. Christopher’s International School, Penang, Steve Shaw, Principal of The ABC International School, and Sarah Raffray, Executive Principal of King's College International School Bangkok, visited Brighton College Vietnam 25-26 September as part of the process to join FOBISIA. THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
Duncan Grice, Principal of Sri KDU International School, Penang, Chris Sammons, Principal of Bangkok Patana School, and Amanda Dennison, Principal of Shrewsbury International School Bangkok City Campus, visited Reigate Grammar School Vietnam 2-3 October as part of the Candidate school process. 13
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THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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32ND FOBISIA LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE:
A WEEKEND OF INSIGHT, CONNECTION AND COMMUNITY Dawn Jones Marketing & Communications Executive FOBISIA HQ Team
The 32nd FOBISIA Leadership Conference brought together more than 300 Member School Heads and senior leaders, guests and speakers, along with 70 exhibiting companies from across our Affiliate Membership. It was an engaging and collaborative gathering that reflected the strength of our community and the spirit of working together across our schools.
Our keynote speakers offered a rich spread of thought provoking themes throughout the weekend. Kathleen Naglee explored Humans Flourishing in the Age of AI. Sean Anthony Sherwood gave an inspirational session highlighting the power of communication in bridging distance, building trust, and creating a true sense of belonging. Priya Lakhani OBE looked at the wider AI ecosystem and the interplay between human intelligence and artificial intelligence. Emma Henderson MBE spoke about the importance of Grounded Leadership and its pillars of humanity, humility and humour.
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We appreciated the numerous informal opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the region and to reflect together on the evolving landscape of international education."
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Alongside the keynote sessions, delegates took part in a wide range of workshops led by colleagues from across our community, each providing valuable insight and practical learning. Roundtable discussions added another opportunity for leaders to connect, share ideas and reflect on challenges and opportunities in their own contexts.
We were glad to include meaningful contributions from students as part of the programme. The weekend opened with a dance presentation from Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, and on Sunday we welcomed a group of students from The Alice Smith School who shared their findings from a carbon-offsetting survey. They also highlighted how the offsetting support provided by FOBISIA had been used to fund sustainable initiatives. Next, we hosted a panel of articulate and passionate students from local Member Schools who offered their perspectives on the future of education. The conference also provided time for delegates to connect and network; The Welcome Reception on the first evening included the pleasure of welcoming His Excellency Ajay Sharma, British High Commissioner to Malaysia. On Saturday night, after a full day of learning and networking, delegates gathered for dinner with the spectacular backdrop of the Petronas Towers.
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I left feeling inspired and grateful for the chance to build meaningful connections with senior educators from leading British international schools across the region, and to gain the most up-to-date educational knowledge along the way."
Overall, it was a fantastic weekend and a clear reflection of the supportive, collaborative community we’re fortunate to be part of. Save the date for the 33rd FOBISIA Leadership Conference, taking place in Bangkok from 13 to 15 November 2026.
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FOBISIA SENIOR DRAMA FESTIVAL 2025: “MAKE ME FEEL MIGHTY REAL” Paul Hannon Head of Drama The British School Manila
The FOBISIA Senior Drama Festival 2025, “Make Me Feel Mighty Real,” was a vibrant three-day celebration of devised theatre hosted at the British School Manila from 27–30 October. The event welcomed 48 students (aged 14+) from five FOBISIA Member Schools, creating a truly regional company of young performers and technicians who collaborated across cultures and languages. A major success was the quality of learning and artistic ambition. Working alongside UK-based professionals from ThickSkin Theatre, students explored identity, technology, and performance in the digital age through dynamic workshops, then applied these ideas in mixed-school ensembles. Groups moved quickly from first ideas to confident experimentation with multimedia, physical theatre, and text, showing impressive creative risk-taking and discipline. 22
The final sharings highlighted tangible growth: clearer storytelling, stronger ensemble awareness, and bolder technical choices within a very short rehearsal window. Equally important was the spirit of community. The festival atmosphere was described as energetic and inspiring, with students forming new friendships and discovering different approaches to drama from across Asia. Visiting staff noted the smooth organisation and warm hosting at BSM: “a brilliant, well-organised event... our students had such a fantastic time. It was planned efficiently and ran smoothly” - all of which helped everyone focus on making theatre at a high level. Overall, the festival achieved its aims of elevating performance skills, encouraging innovative contemporary theatre-making, and strengthening FOBISIA connections - leaving students motivated, proud of their work, and excited to carry the experience back to their schools. Thank you to The British School Manila and the participating schools: British International School Shanghai, Puxi; Wellington College Shanghai; Harrow International School Shenzhen; and Taipei European School.
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FOBISIA MUSIC TEACHERS’ CONFERENCE 2025 Gareth Groves Conference Director and Assistant Head of Secondary Music & Head of Whole School Instrumental Music British International School Ho Chi Min City
The 2025 FOBISIA Music Teachers’ Conference, hosted by the British International School Ho Chi Minh City (BISHCMC) from 18–20 September 2025, was a true celebration of connection through music. With 124 delegates from 75 Member Schools, the event brought together an incredible mix of enthusiasm, expertise and shared passion for teaching music in international schools. The conference created a special balance between professional development and personal connection. Delegates described it as “one of the most well-organised and enjoyable conferences I’ve attended”, while another commented, “The general vibe and energy of the conference was superb”. A standout highlight was the Big Sing and Play Finale, where delegates came together to perform Leonard Bernstein’s Make Your Garden Grow from Candide. This was a moving and fitting end to the conference. The performance, beautifully arranged by Ms Nguyen Tri An, a valued member of the BISHCMC Music Department, captured the spirit of collaboration that defines the FOBISIA community. It was a moment of genuine musical connection, reminding everyone of the joy of playing and singing together, something that sits at the heart of what we all strive to share with our students. The conference also featured a number of inspiring practical sessions that left teachers brimming with ideas to take back to their schools. Tim Rhys-Evans MBE, Music Director of the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD), led a series of uplifting choral workshops that delegates described as “joyful and inspiring”. 24
His presence further strengthened BISHCMC’s ongoing partnership with RWCMD, an affiliation that continues to enrich our curriculum and strengthen the bridge between professional artistry and classroom practice. The hands-on “Beat Goes On” body percussion workshops with Ollie Tunmer were another favourite, filled with energy, laughter and movement. Teachers also praised the guitar sessions with Helen Sanderson, describing them as “incredibly useful and inspiring”, offering practical techniques to develop ensemble playing and confidence among students. Equally memorable was the Bambajam session led by Duncan McKee, which combined rhythm, improvisation and teamwork to brilliant effect, reminding everyone of the universal power of music-making. The event’s success was also made possible thanks to the continued support of FOBISIA Affiliates and sponsors, including ABRSM, RSL Awards, MusicFirst, Sing Up, Musical Futures International, and Specialised Tours. Delegates valued the opportunity to engage with these partners throughout their time here, noting, “I made contacts that my school will definitely follow up on – the exhibitor range was excellent”.
The conference included a memorable Festival Gala Dinner at Saigon’s Secret Garden, where delegates reflected on their experiences, shared ideas and celebrated a conference filled with friendship and inspiration. As FOBISIA looks ahead, this year’s conference at BISHCMC will be remembered for the warmth, energy and genuine sense of community it fostered. It truly reminded everyone that music education can thrive when we make music together. THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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CELEBRATING BRILLIANCE ACROSS BORDERS:
FOBISIA HARDY–RAMANUJAN ALPHA MATHEMATICS CHALLENGE 2025 Dr Jins Jose Head of Mathematics The British School in Colombo
The British School in Colombo had the privilege of hosting the FOBISIA Hardy–Ramanujan Alpha Online Mathematics Challenge 2025, an inspiring celebration of mathematical brilliance that brought together nearly 450 young mathematicians from 14 FOBISIA Member Schools across Asia. Over two days of intense yet joyful competition, students demonstrated exceptional analytical thinking, creativity, and collaboration—reminding us how powerful mathematics can be in uniting minds and cultures. The challenge was held in two categories: Key Stage 3 on Thursday, 6 November 2025, and Key Stage 4 and 5 on Friday, 7 November 2025. There were around 250 students in the KS3 category and around 200 students in the upper KS4 & KS5 category, representing a diverse cross-section of FOBISIA schools. The entire event was conducted online, with students joining Zoom with their cameras on throughout to ensure authenticity and engagement across borders. Each day comprised a two-hour structure with an individual round followed by a group round. In the first hour, students answered twenty non-routine, high-level questions designed to stretch their ability to think logically, reason abstractly, and solve problems that go far beyond the ordinary school curriculum. In the second hour, they moved into carefully organised breakout rooms— assigned according to their pre-registered teams—where they solved collaborative problems under the supervision of proctors from various FOBISIA schools. It was inspiring to witness how thoughtfully and respectfully the students worked together, articulating ideas, questioning assumptions, and combining their strengths to arrive at solutions. The collaborative round, in particular, captured the essence of what the challenge aims to cultivate—teamwork, communication, and the shared joy of problem-solving. The name of the competition pays tribute to one of the most extraordinary partnerships in mathematical history - that of G.H. Hardy, the distinguished British mathematician from Cambridge University, and Srinivasa Ramanujan, the self-taught genius from 26
FULL WINNERS LIST
South India. Their collaboration symbolises exactly what FOBISIA stands for: intellectual exchange across cultures, continents, and disciplines. One of the most famous stories arising from their friendship concerns the number 1729. When Hardy visited Ramanujan in hospital, he remarked rather casually that he had arrived in a taxi with the “dull” number 1729. Ramanujan immediately corrected him, explaining that 1729 is far from dull—it is the smallest number expressible as the sum of two cubes in two distinct ways (1729 = 1³ + 12³ = 9³ + 10³). This charming anecdote reflects the spirit of the challenge: the ability to see depth, beauty, and wonder in numbers that might seem ordinary at first glance. Awards were determined by combining scores from both the individual and group rounds. The top performers received Gold, Silver, Bronze, Merit, or Participation certificates based on a carefully structured percentile system, with Gold awarded to the top seven percent of participants, Silver to the next eighteen percent, and Bronze to the following twenty-five percent. Students who narrowly missed Bronze received Merit certificates, while all remaining participants were recognised with Participation certificates. In addition to these, two prestigious honours were presented: the Ramanujan Star Award for the highest individual scorers, and the Hardy Team Excellence Award for the top-performing collaborative groups. In the Key Stage 3 category, Lingyi from Brighton College (Singapore), along with Ahelie and Nayeli from The British School in Colombo, received the Ramanujan Star Award. The Hardy Team Excellence Award at KS3 went to two teams from Dulwich College Seoul in South Korea; one team each from Prince of Wales Island International School Balik Pulau in Penang, Malaysia; Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, Malaysia; and The British School in Colombo. At Key Stage 4 and 5, the Ramanujan Star Award was presented to Akylbek from Haileybury Almaty in THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
Kazakhstan and Panas from Singapore International School Bangkok for their outstanding individual performances. The Hardy Team Excellence Award at KS4 and KS5 was shared among three teams from Singapore International School Bangkok; two teams from Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, Malaysia; two teams from Haileybury Almaty, Kazakhstan; one team from Traill International School Thailand; and one team from The British School in Colombo. Gold Awards at KS3 were earned by students from Singapore International School Bangkok, Dulwich College Seoul, Brighton College (Singapore), Prince of Wales Island International School Balik Pulau, The British School in Colombo, and Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, while KS4 and KS5 Gold recipients included three teams from Singapore International School Bangkok, as well as one team each from Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar and Haileybury Almaty. The 2025 edition of the Hardy–Ramanujan Challenge was not only a competition but a celebration of what young people can achieve when curiosity meets opportunity. Fittingly, this memorable event took place in the year 2025, a mathematically significant number that is itself a perfect square (2025 = 45²). This subtle numerical elegance added an extra layer of meaning to a competition dedicated to mathematical beauty and discovery. Beyond solving problems, students learned to communicate mathematically, to rely on one another, to value differing approaches, and to remain resilient in the face of complexity. These are the essential 21stcentury skills that will empower them far beyond the classroom. As hosts, The British School in Colombo is deeply proud of the event’s success and of the strong sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that emerged among students, teachers, and schools across the FOBISIA community. The experience reaffirmed that mathematics, when explored together, becomes not just an academic subject but a powerful language of connection, creativity, and collaboration. 27
18 & UNDER VOLLEYBALL INVITATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Jason Bilinkewycz Director of Sport Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok Riverside
The Thunderdomes at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Riverside came alive as the FOBISIA 18 & Under Volleyball Championships 2025/26 took centre stage. The three day event brought together approximately 300 student-athletes and coaches from 24 international schools, representing six different countries, creating a vibrant celebration of high-performance international school volleyball. The championships officially began on Thursday with a welcome barbecue and training sessions, providing teams with an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the facilities, adjust to the environment, and connect with fellow competitors. This relaxed and social opening set a positive tone for the tournament, fostering camaraderie and reinforcing the strong sense of community that underpins FOBISIA events. Competitive action took place across Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with both the boys’ and girls’ competitions showcasing the exceptional standard of volleyball being played across FOBISIA schools. Matches were fiercely contested throughout, featuring long rallies, disciplined defensive structures, and powerful attacking play. Athletes demonstrated impressive technical skill, tactical awareness, and mental resilience, creating an electric atmosphere within the Thunderdomes for players and spectators alike.
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The boys’ competition concluded with Bangkok Prep claiming the championship title. Their success was built on consistent performances across the three competition days, underpinned by excellent team cohesion, intelligent game management, and composure in high-pressure moments. Bangkok Prep’s ability to execute their game plan effectively against a strong field of opponents ultimately proved decisive. In the girls’ competition, Bangkok Sports School emerged as worthy champions following a series of dominant performances. Their athleticism, disciplined organisation, and depth across the squad enabled them to control matches and set a high tempo throughout the tournament. A strong collective work ethic and clear tactical identity were key factors in their championship-winning campaign. As host school, Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Riverside provided an outstanding venue for the championships. The Thunderdomes delivered a professional and energetic setting, while the smooth organisation of fixtures, officiating, and logistics ensured a positive experience for all participating schools. "This was the highest standard we have seen over the last 4 years of hosting and is a testament to the strength and depth of the programmes run within the FOBISIA Member Schools. Every year the student-athletes raise the bar and it is an extremely rewarding experience to watch the Sunday finals!" Beyond the results, the championships embodied the core values of FOBISIA sport. Players demonstrated excellent sportsmanship, respect, and teamwork, forming friendships across schools and countries. Coaches collaborated and shared best practice, and student leaders and officials played an important role in the event’s success. The FOBISIA 18 & Under Volleyball Championships 2025/26 concluded as a resounding success, celebrating excellence, participation, and international connection. THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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FOBISIA DRAMA CONFERENCE 2025 Helen Bamford Head of Drama Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong
It was such a pleasure to host this year's FOBISIA Drama Conference at Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong, and an honour to be the first one hosted in China! We welcomed teachers from schools across the FOBISIA network with around 50 drama teachers joining us from over 10 different countries. The conference began with the Annual General Meeting led by Drama Committee Chair, Paul Hannon, and then went on to discuss an exciting array of festivals and drama opportunities for schools to take part in over this year, both in-person and online. After a break for lunch, I was excited to introduce our practitioners joining us from Splendid Productions, Kerry Frampton and Genevieve Say, who had travelled all the way from the UK to be with us. For more than 20 years, Kerry Frampton and her company have developed the ‘Splendid style’ which includes creative adaptation, storytelling, clowning and fiercely anti-fourth wall theatremaking. Splendid see theatre as an empowering and enabling force and their education work is at the centre of their practice making them a perfect fit for our professional development at this year's conference.
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Creativity, collaboration and a great deal of laughter ensued as we were fortunate to attend no less than eight workshops learning and exploring a range of Splendid’s strategies and techniques for creating theatre. We were also delighted to watch a live theatre recording of Splendid’s production ‘The Odyssey’ which exemplified many of techniques we had experienced in our workshops. On the final evening, the buzz at the social event was palpable and gave us all a chance to discuss, digest and share in our experiences of the conference as well as enjoy some professional networking. As we said our thanks and goodbyes the following day, I reflected on how much I was going to miss having 50 drama teachers in my department and was also so grateful to be a part of such a wonderful Drama community with such a vast, collective experience of Drama and Theatre. What a memorable event made extra special by our connection and shared love of the Arts.
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FOBISIA MATHS CODEBREAKING COMPETITION 2025 Andrew Chambers Event Host & Mathematics Teacher British International School, Phuket
British International School, Phuket (BISP) has successfully hosted the FOBISIA Mathematics Code Breaking competition for the fourth successive year. The event was another huge success with over 110 schools taking part from across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas. Students had to work through a variety of codes, and those that cracked all codes in a level got to add their names to the leaderboard. This year there were 7 different code levels – including a Murder Mystery, a Spy Challenge, a Python coding Challenge and a fiendishly difficult Test of Genius. Over the course of the week over 35,000 unique users racked up 1.8 million page views, successfully logging 40,000 code level completions and collectively engaging in over 30,000 hours of code breaking activities. The event has now grown to be one of the largest mathematical competitions for schools in Asia and to be a favourite on the calendar for many schools. Congratulations to the overall winning schools – Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok Riverside submitted an incredible 2086 level entries, narrowly beating HELP International School Kuala Lumpar by 17 entries. In third place was The International School @ ParkCity with 1619 entries.
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There is a close connection between code breaking and mathematics – with many of the same skills of perseverance, problem solving and pattern recognition essential to both disciplines. As such at BISP we are delighted to provide an opportunity for students from around the world to showcase a real-life application of their mathematical skills, and hopefully to develop a life-long passion for the subject. Although the competition is closed, you can still have a go at the challenges on BISP's codecracking website: https://schoolcodebreaking.com
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FOBISIA BRIDGE DESIGNER COMPETITION 2025 W. Harrison Engle II Design & Technology Curriculum Leader Amnuay Silpa School
The FOBISIA Bridge Designer Competition 2025 brought together young engineers from across the region in an exciting online challenge hosted by Amnuay Silpa School. With over 195 bridge submissions, students in Years 5 and 6 demonstrated outstanding skill in using engineering software, testing, and refining their ideas through the Bridge Designer 2016 program. Each participant was challenged to design a bridge that could successfully pass the simulation without collapsing while keeping the total cost as low as possible. To ensure fairness, all students began with the same competition setup code, creating identical starting conditions. From there, creativity and problem-solving came into play as participants adjusted their bridge geometry, materials, and structure to achieve the most efficient design. Throughout the month-long competition (8 September – 3 October 2025), weekly design tips were released on the official website to help guide students in improving their work. These tips introduced new tools and strategies within the software—encouraging participants to explore, test, and refine their bridges more effectively each week. A live Leaderboard on the competition website added to the excitement. As students submitted updated versions of their bridges, it automatically displayed the cheapest bridge designs, including some that were not yet confirmed to work correctly or to use the right setup code. This gave participants an early glimpse of potential winners, while reminding them that passing the simulation was just as important as keeping costs low. Before the competition began, teachers joined an online support session via Google Meet to ensure their schools were fully prepared to install and use the software. Clear setup, saving, and submission instructions helped streamline participation across many schools.
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Fi rs t P lace
Winner: Arochanin (Denla British School, Thailand)
At the end of the event, the winning students were announced in an official Results Video, and each winner received a trophy and certificate in recognition of their achievement. This year’s competition celebrated not just the winners, but the learning journey every participant experienced—understanding that design and technology are about iteration, persistence, and creative problem-solving. Congratulations to all who took part for their effort, curiosity, and teamwork. To view the official results, visit the FOBISIA Bridge Designer Competition 2025 Website.
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A NEW RECORD: REFLECTING ON THE FOBISIA PE & SPORT CONFERENCE 2025 Todd Skevington Director of Sport Marlborough College Malaysia
Hosting the FOBISIA PE & Sport Conference at Marlborough College Malaysia was a truly inspiring experience. I’m thrilled to announce that this year’s event was our biggest and best yet, attracting a record 157 delegates from 90 Member Schools across the region. This fantastic turnout is a testament to the community's commitment to excellence in physical education and sport. A massive thank you must go to all of our support staff at Marlborough College, who provided a welcoming and supportive environment, which delegates consistently described as "organised incredibly well."
World-Class Learning and Inspiration The core of the conference was professional development, and the feedback on the content has been outstanding. We were incredibly fortunate to feature six phenomenal keynote speakers. I’m particularly pleased with the enthusiasm surrounding our headline acts: Gilbert Enoka, Emma Ross (The Well HQ), and Olympic Champion Swimmer Adam Peaty. Their sessions, along with those from Ronnie Heath, Sanjeevan Sandhu, and Helen Battely (Music and Movement), were deeply impactful. As one delegate summed up, "I came back with a tonne of ideas and feeling inspired."
Beyond the main stage, the breadth of learning was immense, offering 33 workshops, 12 practicals, and 8 highly valued delegate-led sessions. This mix ensured that every practitioner, from Primary PE specialists to Directors of Sport, found tailored content. The round table discussions during the AGM day were also crucial for collaborative networking, which many noted as being "great for networking" with peers and providers. 36
Focusing on Future Growth While the positive feedback far outweighed the critical, we are committed to constant improvement. We received invaluable insights that will shape future conferences. One key piece of feedback centered on the need for more pedagogical depth. As one Primary specialist pointed out, a deeper focus is needed on the academic basics of skill acquisition, the ABCs (agility, balance, coordination) to complement the focus on 'fun games' and tournament prep. We were delighted to have realPE delivering their content, and we will certainly build on this foundation. We also heard a clear request for more extended, intensive training, with delegates keen to see "specific sports-based courses, such as coaching licenses... running over 2/3 days." This is a brilliant suggestion that we'll explore. Thank you to every delegate, speaker, presenter, and affiliate who contributed to making the 2025 conference such a spectacular success. We can’t wait to reconnect with you all for the next chapter in Shanghai! THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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FOBISIA ADVANCED CHORAL AND ORCHESTRAL FESTIVAL 2025: AMass for Peace Debra Jones Director of Music (Senior School) Kellett School Hong Kong
On the morning of October 24th, 210 young people from 14 FOBISIA Member Schools, along with their teachers, gathered for the first time in the theatre at Kellett School. Regardless of where they came from, their cultural backgrounds or mother tongues, they all shared a common link – a love of music. This inspired the theme of the festival: Peace and Unity. The festival's repertoire centered around the powerful choral and orchestral piece, "A Mass for Peace: The Armed Man," by Welsh composer, Karl Jenkins. Written in the year 2000 to honor the victims of the Kosovo War, this work takes listeners on a journey, from the terrifying first movement to the uplifting finale, "Better Is Peace Than Always War." Its relevance endures, reflecting themes that still resonate today. The piece presents a significant challenge for student musicians, who had just two and a half days to prepare.
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Under the expert direction of guest conductors Jonathan Mann and Celia Leung, the students achieved a level of performance that was truly professional by the final concert, just two days later. The event drew a packed auditorium and was streamed online, reaching an audience of over 1,300 viewers. The program also included "A Fantasy on Welsh Nursery Tunes" by Grace Williams and the charming "Cover Me In Sunshine" by Pink. A standout moment was the unique rendition of "Trilo," a traditional Swedish folk song, which resonated throughout the Atrium as students processed from the upper levels to the stage, leaving the audience so captivated that they completely forgot to clap. A heartfelt thank you goes to Jonathan and Celia, who treated the students like professional musicians and communicated high expectations. This approach not only provided valuable insights into the life of working musicians but also resulted in powerful and memorable performances. Additionally, gratitude is owed to the music teachers who dedicated countless hours to organising travel to Hong Kong and joined their students on stage to share this experience. I hope the students will leave with lasting memories of Lion Dances, the Harbour Boat Tour, and, of course, the music—along with new friendships to carry into the next festival.
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THE FOBISIA GAMES THROUGH OUR COMMUNITY’S EYES A Member School: Danielle Foyle Deputy Head of Upper School & PE & Health Teacher North London Collegiate School (Singapore)
For NLCS (Singapore), our sports tour to the FOBISIA Games is more than just a highlight on the calendar, it’s a transformative experience that has an ongoing impact for both students and staff involved. Competing in Basketball, Teeball, Athletics, Football, and Swimming against top schools from all across Asia, our students return not only with medals and memories but with a renewed sense of confidence, camaraderie, and pride. students do so with pride, spirit, and sportsmanship that makes our whole school proud both at Primary & U13 age groups, and while trophies are celebrated, it’s the shared moments of victory huddles, team chants, hard fought games, and quiet words of encouragement that truly define the tour.
From the very beginning, there’s an energy that sets this tour apart. The buzz as we land in Thailand is electric, equal parts being excitement and nerves. But it doesn’t take long before the magic of the experience sets in, whether it’s diving into a pool surrounded by cheering teammates, or sprinting down a track against elite level talent, every event becomes a chance to shine.
For us, The FOBISIA Games is more than a destination. It’s where memories are made, life lessons are learned, and where the spirit of sport brings out the very best in us all. This tour is, without a doubt, a treasured chapter in the story of every student who takes part and we look forward to taking part again next year! GO BULLDOGS!
What makes the experience seamless is the exceptional organisation. Everything, from the encompassing sporting venues to the accommodation, meals, and transport is thoughtfully planned. It’s a finely tuned operation that allows staff and students alike to focus on what truly matters: the experience. As a new school to the Games, competing on an international stage is no small feat. Yet our 40
An Alumni: Jef Gille Alumni St. Andrews International School Bangkok Alumni
Having graduated from St. Andrews International School Bangkok nearly 3 years ago, I often reminisce about my time as a high school student there. When I do, I think of sport. I was lucky enough to be heavily involved within the sports, P.E. and sports science community at school which presented incredible opportunities, FOBISIA being the most notable example. When I first joined STA in 2014, I was invited to attend the FOBISIA games in Beijing, China to represent my school. I felt honoured to be selected and I remember being immensely excited for the trip. Competing against the best athletes in my age group from all over South-East Asia was a privilege. I met so many new people and learned so many lessons. I solidified relationships through the trips, making everlasting memories along the way.
Over the next few years, I attended all the FOBISIA events that I could. Each of these trips being the highlight of my year. Being exposed to extremely high-level competitors at these events helped me grow more as an athlete and a person more than I could have ever imagined just competing regionally, in Bangkok. My fondest memories of the FOBISIA trips were the moments between games or athletics events where us students and our coaches had great conversations and laughs; those were the best moments. Of course, competing was fantastic as well. From my personal experience, along with being extremely fun and healthy, sport builds invaluable frameworks and skill sets which translate into every facet of life. With every FOBISIA event that I attended, my love for sports grew and as did I. I owe a lot of gratitude to the FOBISIA organisation for this. THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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FOBISIA.tv LAUNCHES WITH 1 PLAY Mohit Lalvani Founder 1 Play Global
The FOBISIA Games have always been a highlight for young athletes and their supporters. This year, the experience reached even more people through the introduction of live streaming on FOBISIA.tv, made possible through collaboration between FOBISIA, 1 Play, and Sports Management Worldwide. For the first time, families, friends, and school communities across the region could follow the action in real time, sharing in the energy and excitement of each event.
FOBISIA.tv offered a simple but meaningful way for the wider community to be part of the journey, even when they couldn’t be there in person.
Bringing the Games to Everyone
A Growing Opportunity
First tested at the Primary Games earlier in the year, 1 Play has now implemented a comprehensive streaming solution for the FOBISIA Games which includes multicamera productions, real-time graphics, a dedicated streaming webapp, and allows for simultaneous coverage of multiple events in athletics or multiple matches during the football and basketball days. Importantly, the solution consists of a closed loop app which safeguards all the students by restricting the streams to the community only.
The response has shown just how valued this new access is. With more than sixty thousand views recorded in this initial roll out, it’s clear that live streaming has opened up new possibilities for bringing the community together. This first step marks the beginning of an exciting direction for FOBISIA with FOBISIA.tv, and the aim is to expand this coverage so that even more events across the FOBISIA calendar can be enjoyed by families and schools in the future.
Across the five groups of the U15 competition, thousands tuned in to watch their children, classmates, and teammates take part. Whether cheering from home, catching up between matches, or gathering around screens at school, the streams allowed everyone to feel connected to the atmosphere of the Games.
By working together with 1 Play, FOBISIA has taken an important step toward making its events more accessible, inclusive, and shareable. The journey has only just begun, and there is plenty of potential ahead to keep strengthening the connections that make the FOBISIA community so special.
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WHAT IF NOBODY TALKS TO ME? Sophie Maclang Primary Teacher The British School Manila
Before I attended the FOBISIA Leadership Conference, my husband sensed my nerves. He assumed it was because, as a Fellowship Awardee, I had to give a three minute talk in front of 400 senior leaders, or because I was travelling alone. But truthfully, that was not it at all. What I was really worried about was a familiar feeling: What if nobody talks to me? What if I look out of place? What if everyone is discussing things I do not understand? What if people notice I am on my own? How would a room full of senior leaders relate to me, a primary teacher? Do I belong? importantly, what are we going to do about it?
I even made a plan: slip away for a mani-pedi, hide in my room, keep making cups of tea, and stand quietly in the corner so no one would see I did not have anyone to talk to. Brené Brown says that if you keep searching for the ways you are different to someone else, you will never find your way to belonging. She is right. But it is hard not to stop protecting yourself when belonging has always felt fragile. I grew up as a Third Culture Kid. I have moved house 32 times. The body keeps the score; your body remembers and, instinctively, you protect yourself in the ways you know how.
Figure 1: Five stages of assessing Global Citizenship
As part of the FOBISIA Fellowship Programme, I stood on stage and shared my story: moving to Japan at seven, moving again at eleven, then starting at a different school every year of high school. I spoke about the struggles many Third Culture Kids carry, such as belonging, identity and unresolved grief, and the pride I feel in my TCK culture. I explained why I started a Transitions Team at British School Manila: to make sure that we, as a school, intentionally support staff, students and families as they navigate the many transitions that come with this lifestyle, and to make sure children do not have to face these complex experiences alone. 48
FOBISIA FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME 25/26
What happened next surprised me. Leaders came to speak to me with such honesty. Some became emotional. They shared their concerns for their children leaving for university, struggling to find friendships in their new homes, or having lost a close friend this year and trying to cope. They asked thoughtful questions, and it was humbling to realise I did have something meaningful to offer. The work I had poured time, energy and heart into mattered to them too. “My twins really struggled at university, especially the one who went to a smaller one. She dropped out, and I can see why now.” “My son felt so different when he moved back to the UK. It was really hard because we were in Thailand, so far away.” As we exchanged stories, titles and differences fell away. My worries were completely unfounded. I kept coming back to a line by Mary Lou Kownacki: “There isn’t anyone you couldn’t learn to love once you’ve heard their story.” The FOBISIA conference reminded me that belonging does not come from titles, roles or backgrounds. It grows when we are willing to share something true about who we are, and when we listen long enough to truly hear someone else’s story. Next time that old question appears, What if nobody talks to me? I will try to remember to ask a different one: What if I go first? What if I tell my story, and make room for theirs too? THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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A FOBISIA FELLOW’S REFLECTIONS ON
THE 2025 LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE James Tosdevin, Head of English Nexus International School, Malaysia
Being part of the FOBISIA Fellowship Programme has reshaped the way I think about leadership, innovation and collaboration. Presenting our projects at the FOBISIA Leadership Conference was always going to be a highlight, albeit a slightly daunting one. Reassurance came from knowing I was not embarking on this alone. Upon meeting the other Fellows on the Friday before the conference, it was clear that I was stepping into this with like-minded individuals who cared deeply about education, the student experience and collaboration across the network. Mike Alborough, one of last year’s Fellows, told us that we would arrive as strangers and leave with a sense of friendship and camaraderie. That proved true almost immediately as we swapped details of our projects, and shared laughs on the minibus journey to The International School @ ParkCity (ISP) for our school visit.
Visiting ISP was a fantastic experience which began with a presentation on the history of ISP and some leadership takeaways from Andrew Dalton. This was followed by a tour from Thomas Keenan and Sharon Wellington, during which we were able to see the facilities and observe student life firsthand. Our visit concluded with a talk from the aforementioned Mike, who gave us some invaluable advice ahead of the conference. His central message was simple: throw yourself into the experience, speak to as many people as possible, and take every opportunity to learn.
Figure 1: Five stages of assessing Global Citizenship
The conference itself was eye-opening, highlighting educational priorities in a rapidly changing climate, and the role of leadership in navigating emerging challenges. There was a strong focus on harnessing AI while also balancing the increasing need for human connection. As a Fellow, I was first to introduce my project which explores how AI might be able to support students’ metacognition and self-regulation, guided by core teaching and learning principles. I was glad to highlight that AI should serve pedagogy as a tool - pedagogy first, AI second - a sentiment that was echoed throughout the weekend. 50
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I attended several fascinating workshops, including one on crisis management led by my mentor Stephen Ford, Head of Secondary at The ABC International School, where we were given a scenario-based task to learn from. Throughout all of the workshops, sitting around a table of leaders and learning from the depth and breadth of experience in the room was a real highlight. I am excited to bring some of these insights into my work next year at Nexus.
Above all, the weekend opened my eyes to the strength of the FOBISIA network, the interconnectedness of international educators, and the thousands of students who benefit. I am grateful to Julia and the FOBISIA Team for their support, from the Global Edge workshop on presenting, to the encouraging words throughout. I leave the conference with a renewed sense of collective purpose, and excitement to continue my project, the findings of which I will share in a FOBISIA Webinar later this academic year.
THE FOBISIAN: JANUARY 2026, TERM2, ISSUE 49
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