Student Spotlight: Maggie C

100 Possibilities -

BBSG Student Spotlight Series: EP02

From Editor

When is the best time for students to transition to international education? How can we support them in adapting to a new learning environment?

Meet Maggie C, who transferred to BBSG's Year 10 from a prestigious public school at the beginning of this academic year. Her journey provides valuable insights for families considering a similar path.

Note: In the British system, Year 10 corresponds to Grade 9 in the Chinese system. At BBSG, Year 10 students are part of the Senior School to facilitate a smooth transition from junior to senior secondary.

"My previous school provided me with a strong academic foundation. However, at this stage, I wanted to explore a different curriculum," says Maggie. Her family made this decision after careful consideration. Maggie was fully aware of the challenges that lay ahead.

01

Breaking the Language Barrier

Maggie's connection with BBSG began during an English demo class with Mr. Christopher Weait on the school’s open day. She was immediately drawn to his teaching approach. It encouraged students to interpret topics freely instead of adhering to rigid structures.

*Year 10 English Class

Like many students transitioning to international education, Maggie initially kept quiet in English classes. "I could understand most of the instructions, but expressing myself was challenging," she recalls. The curriculum demanded more than basic language skills. It required critical thinking and the ability to articulate ideas through essays, debates, and presentations, all of which were outside her comfort zone.

Maggie receiving feedback on her ideas on global issues in Global Perspectives learning projects

“Despite these challenges, she maintained a dedicated attitude and a willingness to listen to feedback and apply it to her learning. This growth mindset has helped her tremendously,” shared Mr. Weait.

Maggie’s writing project

Through dedicated small-group instruction and persistent self-study, Maggie's English proficiency has soared over the last semester. Her MAP test scores showed an exceptional improvement of 11-12 points in reading and language skills. This far exceeded the average 2-3 point increase. This progress boosted her confidence in language learning. As a result, she was motivated to take on Spanish as an additional language this semester.

02

Fitting in the Boarding Life

Joining the BBSG boarding programme marked Maggie's first experience living away from home. After initial homesickness, she discovered that boarding life opened up new opportunities for personal growth.

Her current schedule includes psychology club, iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machine Competition) training, Model United Nations preparation, regular piano practice, sports, and more. This busy boarding life has significantly enhanced her time management skills.

Maggie directed a school anti-bullying short video about the "Pink Day."

The boarding team also encourages students to get involved in organising movie nights, buffet receptions, and monthly birthday celebrations. "When Maggie first participated, she knew no one except her roommate. Now, she has friends across different grades," says House Parent Ms. Wendy Sun.

Maggie and her friend performed a piano duet at the Boarding Starry Gala

03

Embracing Change with Optimism

Maggie has a particular enthusiasm for business studies. Her teacher, Ms. Carolina Agudelo, recognises her potential. “There’s rarely an absolute right or wrong answer in the world of business. However, Maggie is really good at identifying patterns and getting to the core of the problem," she says. With Ms. Agudelo’s encouragement, Maggie plans to participate in related competitions to further expand her knowledge and hone her skills.

Maggie and her classmates presenting a business proposal

BBSG offers five academic tracks in Senior Secondary School. Starting in Year 10, students choose their pathways with guidance from the QUEST counsellor. They then begin building comprehensive portfolios for university applications.

Maggie believes that keeping an open mind was key to her smooth transition. Her QUEST counsellor, Ms. Ally Xuan, observes, "Where others see a glass half empty, Maggie sees it half full. Her growth mindset not only drives her progress but also inspires those around her."

This positivity is a conscious choice. As Maggie shares with prospective students: explore all that BBSG offers, learn from mistakes, make friends, and growth will follow.