Recognising our students' excellent learning experiences and update on staffing
![Recognising our students' excellent learning experiences and update on staffing]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1740118572/britishschoolmanilaorg/pfdzlryv327379ackezz/MessagefromtheHoS_22.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1740118572/britishschoolmanilaorg/pfdzlryv327379ackezz/MessagefromtheHoS_22.png","width":400}])
Dear BSM Family,
On Friday of last week, I was privileged to visit (twice, it was so good!) the Year 9 Science Fair which was so very impressive. Hearing our students speak with such confidence about their research projects was fantastic. They have been clearly inspired by their wonderful teachers. Thank you.
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This past week leading up to the half-term break has been an excellent showcase of the experiences we offer our students beyond the classroom. Our various sports days were thoroughly engaging and enjoyable. Thank you to the throngs of parents who supported their children and teams and a shout out to our PE department for their tremendous efforts.
Another highlight for me this week was attending the IBDP Drama class final assessment task, The Collaborative Project. I was totally enthralled by the depth and meaning of their performances. Bravo!
Whilst we’ve only just reached half-term, we are already looking ahead to next academic year logistically, financially and, of course, with regards to staffing. At BSM, we are fortunate to have a truly dedicated and talented team of educators, and our strong sense of community contributes to an exceptional level of teacher retention. On average, teachers at BSM stay with us for nearly seven years, a testament to the supportive environment and professional opportunities that make our school such a rewarding place to work. Beyond the school itself, life in Manila and the Philippines offers an enriching experience, with its vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and diverse opportunities for exploration. Our students, who are engaged, curious, and eager to learn, alongside our supportive families who value and contribute to the school’s success, further make BSM a special place to teach and grow. Teachers have voiced to me in this context how difficult the decision to leave BSM has been.
That said, as with any dynamic international school, we do experience staff movement from year to year. Teachers move on for a variety of reasons, including personal family considerations, career development opportunities, and life stage transitions. Some may return to their home countries, pursue leadership roles elsewhere, or explore new challenges in different educational settings. Whilst it is always sad to say farewell to valued members of our teaching team, we will also be welcoming talented new educators to our community who will bring fresh perspectives and expertise to our community.
I am proud to say that our recruitment process is appropriately rigorous and thoughtful, ensuring that new teachers align with our BSM ethos and our commitment to high-quality education. We continue to attract outstanding professionals who are eager to contribute to our culture of excellence and innovation in teaching and learning.
In the coming few weeks, as we commenced last week with our new College Counsellors, we will introduce our incoming teachers as well as celebrate the contributions of those who are moving on. The time for farewells will be, as is traditional, at the end of the year. For now, I want to extend my gratitude to all our staff for their dedication and to you, our BSM families, for your continued support in making this school such a special place for students and educators alike.
Have a restful half-term break!
Head of School
Parent Workshops
'Safety, Belonging, & Identity Affirmation in Student Learning & Well-Being', Wednesday, 05 March, 08.00am-09.30am, LRC Level 2, Screen Space
A parent session led by Joel Jr Llaban, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) at International Schools Services aimed to deepen our understanding of how culture shapes children’s identities, learning, and behaviour. In this session, we will reflect on how the brain relies on safety, belonging, and identity affirmation to foster learning and enhance well-being. Through this session, families will gain insights into creating supportive environments that empower children’s growth and success in school and beyond. Sign up here.
International Evening 2025
RELATED LINKS
- Message from the Head of School
- Whole School