Witnessing and being involved in the growth and development of BSM students is incredibly rewarding, and a true privilege

Jun 6 2025

Dear BSM Family,

For me, a school is the most inspiring and uplifting environment to work in, so much more so at BSM. Reflecting back over on this past year, I feel so incredibly privileged to come to BSM every day.

I remember a colleague saying to me some years ago that his job, as a Head of School, was so tough and so limited in reward that he would be leaving the profession. He has now been in an Administrative leadership role, outside of education, for twenty years now, and still says that he has no regrets for leaving education. I can not imagine being outside of a school environment.

Watching, engaging with, supporting, and being involved in the growth and development of young people is incredibly rewarding. As I mentioned in my address at last Saturday's BSM Class of 2025's IB Graduation, four of the graduates present were on the student panel that interviewed me for this role back in 2018. To see how they, and their peers, have grown into sentient and impressive young adults is a true privilege.

I have no doubt that the same emotions will be felt in the upcoming BSM Sports Awards and Speech Day. But we do not even need to wait for these special occasions to acknowledge and experience the tremendous successes of our students. Success at BSM is not defined solely by graduation, trophies or accolades, but by the personal growth, empathy, and integrity our students embody every day.

Looking ahead to the few remaining days of this school year, please take time to reflect on the privilege we all share in being part of our BSM community and take pride in the daily triumphs that shape the heart of our school.

Warm regards,

Martin van der Linde

Head of School

Parent Workshops

'Student Support Services Parent Network Meeting: Spotlight on Inclusion', Monday, 09 June, 01.00pm, LRC, Level 2 Screen Space

The Student Support Services Parent Network is celebrating its one-year anniversary and would like to invite all parents interested in learning about diversity and inclusion to join their next session on Monday, 09 June at 01.00pm. The session will focus on inclusive support for transitions to explore how we can support our students and young learners as they transition to their new year group and adjust to the changes that follow.

To find out more about the parent network or to register your interest to attend, please email Heather Atkinson, Director of Student Support Services at hatkinson@britishschoolmanila.org.

'Primary School: New Parents/School Readiness Workshop', Wednesday, 11 June, 08.00am-09:00am, LRC, Level 2 Screen Space

Join us for a parent workshop focussed on school readiness for Nursery and Reception students. We'll explore practical ways to support your child/ren’s transition into school, covering daily routines, how to build confidence and independence, and be emotionally ready for school.

Road Closure: International Finance Center Fire Drill

Please be advised that the International Finance Centre will conduct a Fire Drill for its building occupants on Wednesday, 11 June 2025, from 09.00am to 11.00am.

In line with this, there will be road closures along 36th Street and 11th Avenue. During this time, heavy traffic is expected in the area.

Upcoming School Closure

Please take note of the upcoming school closure: