Vision, Mission & Core Values
Vision: Him Lam International School aims to be a leader in international education in Vietnam, preparing lifelong learners who contribute positively to society.
Mission: To nurture, inspire, and empower students to become active, respectful, and capable lifelong learners, achieving the highest international standards.
Core Values:
- Student-centred approach: Focusing on individual needs and development.
- Global perspective: Encouraging respect for diversity and international awareness.
- Lifelong learning: Cultivating curiosity, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
- Innovation & technology: Integrating smart solutions for learning and growth.
- Integrity & respect: Promoting honesty, responsibility, and inclusivity.
School Programmes
Him Lam International School offers three academic pathways:
- International Programme: Follows the Cambridge International curriculum, leading to IGCSE and A Level or IB Diploma qualifications.
- Integrated Programme: Combines the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) curriculum with Cambridge subjects.
- Innovative Programme: Based on the MoET curriculum with enhanced creative and technological learning (from August 2024).
School Hours & Calendar
- School hours: Monday-Friday: 07:30 – 16:30; Saturday: 08:00 – 11:30.
- Academic year: August to June (minimum 180 school days – currently 182 for Kindergarten and Inter-level International and 187 for Inter-level Integrated and Innovative).
- Holidays: National holidays, Lunar New Year (Tết), and mid-year breaks are outlined in the school calendar.
Enrolment & Withdrawals
Enrolment: Students undertake placement assessments to determine class allocation based on age, academic ability, and English proficiency.
Withdrawals: Parents must notify the school in writing as per enrolment terms. Re-enrolment requires re-application and fee payment unless pre-arranged.
Financial Policy
For full details on tuition fees, payment procedures, and refund policies, parents should refer to the School Financial Policy or contact the Student & Parent Care (SPC) Department.
Attendance & Behaviour Expectations
Attendance: Students must attend at least 160 days per year. Absences exceeding 20 days may result in non-promotion.
Punctuality: Late arrival after 08:30 disrupts learning. Three late arrivals equal one absence.
Behaviour: Respect, responsibility, and cooperation are expected. Serious misconduct may lead to disciplinary actions, including suspension.
School Uniform & Equipment
Uniform: Students must wear the official school uniform daily, including sports kit on PE days.
Footwear: Dark-coloured, flat shoes or trainers are required. Flip-flops and high heels are not allowed.
Essential items: Water bottle, school hat (Nursery to Grade 1), and PE/swimming kit on relevant days.
Prohibited items: Mobile phones (except with teacher permission), valuable jewellery, weapons, cigarettes, alcohol, and chewing gum.
Health & Well-being
Illness & Absences: Parents must notify the school of any illness. Students with contagious conditions must remain at home.
Medical Support: First aid is provided on-site. Medication is only administered with parental consent.
Healthy Eating: Snacks should be nutritious. Fast food, sweets, and fizzy drinks are not permitted.
Birthdays: Only shop-bought, individually wrapped treats with an ingredients list are allowed. Parents must complete a food safety form in advance.
School Facilities & Resources
Library: Students may borrow up to three books for seven days. Lost books must be replaced.
PE & Swimming: Participation is compulsory unless a medical certificate is provided.
Technology Use: The IT Acceptable Use Policy must be followed to ensure responsible digital behaviour.
Parental Communication & Involvement
Communication: The school uses Toddle for updates. Parents should check it regularly.
Meetings: Parents can arrange meetings with teachers through the SPC Department.
Concerns & Feedback: Parents are encouraged to share suggestions or raise concerns through the Complaints Policy procedure.
Safeguarding & Student Welfare
Child Protection: The school maintains a strict Safeguarding Policy to ensure student safety.
Emergency Procedures: Parents must keep contact details updated for urgent situations.
Parental Conduct: Respectful behaviour towards staff and students is expected. Any inappropriate conduct may result in restricted school access.
Availability of Handbook
An electronic copy of the Student & Parent Handbook is shared annually with parents. Printed copies are available upon request from the Student & Parent Care (SPC) Department. For further details, please contact the SPC Department or refer to the full handbook
