The vibrancy of life at BSM continues as we navigate the final few weeks of school and see you at the Great British Splash!

May 23 2025

Dear BSM Family,

I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the rhythm and energy that always accompany the final term of the academic year. It is wonderful to witness the vibrancy of life at BSM, always filled with dynamic learning, shared laughter, and the meaningful connections that make our community such a special place.

Each week, our ever-patient and diligent Marketing team kindly reminds me of my contribution to the Lion’s Roar. I strive to get it submitted by Thursday to give them time to work their magic and prepare the final version. Yet, as I guiltily write this on Friday morning, I find myself pausing to ask, 'Where has this week gone?'

Time always seems to accelerate in Term 3. While BSM hums with activity throughout the year, there is a particular intensity in these final weeks. Our calendar is filled with events, performances, transitions, celebrations, and, of course, examinations. At BSM, I am so proud to see that our students and community fully embrace the holistic vision at the heart of our purpose, and nowhere is that more evident than in this final stretch.

Our Year 11 and Year 13 students have recently completed their IGCSE and IBDP examinations. These young people have faced their final assessments with calm determination, focus, and integrity. My heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed; you have worked with purpose, shown true resilience, and inspired all of us with your dedication.

Now, it is the turn of our Year 10 and Year 12 students, who are in the midst of their own assessment season. Just this morning, I had a brief but meaningful conversation with some of our Year 10 students before they sat their Spanish, French, and Mandarin exams. I was struck by their quiet confidence and mature approach, there was no panic, just a steady readiness.

As we navigate the final weeks of this school year together, with all the activity, emotion, and anticipation, I am reminded once again of the strength and spirit of our community. Whether in the exam hall, the rehearsal room, the playground, or the classroom, there is a shared sense of purpose and pride that unites us.

Thank you for the part you play in making BSM the extraordinary place it is. Let’s continue to support one another, celebrate the small and big wins alike, and finish this term as we always do, together.

See you later at the Great British Splash and don't miss the reunion performance of the Greatest British Pop Band at 05.00pm!

Warm regards,

Martin van der Linde

Head of School

Reminder: BSM Family Accounts

Your BSM Family Account is the main method of communication between the school and families. Please remember to check it regularly. Your Family BSM Account is also your key to other digital systems at BSM, including the Family Portal and iSAMS student progress hub.

As we approach the end of term, with end of term reports and information about the new school year on the horizon, please check that you are able to access your accounts.

If you need any support, contact or visit our ICT team (ict@britishschoolmanila.org or (02) 8860 4800 ext 1000) who will be happy to help.

Parent Workshops

'Supporting Identity and Belonging in a Global Community', Wednesday, 28 May, 08.00am-09.00am, LRC, Level 2 Screen Space

Every one of our students benefits from growing up in an international community and learning to navigate an increasingly globalised world. Many will study, work, and live in cultures different from their own. To truly thrive, they need a strong sense of identity—an understanding of who they are that helps them better connect with and respect others.

In this interactive workshop, we’ll explore key questions such as: How can we support our child/ren as their sense of self evolves? What strategies can we use to help them embrace and celebrate both their own identity and the diverse identities of those around them?

Whether your child/ren are just beginning to express their unique preferences, navigating the complexities of adolescence, or preparing for life beyond BSM, we invite you to join us for this important and practical conversation.

'Years 10-13 Parents: Gen Z Careers, and the Changing Landscape of Success', Wednesday, 04 June, 08.00am-09.00am, LRC, Level 2 Screen Space

Today’s teens and young adults are navigating a world very different from the one most parents grew up in. University and career pathways are shifting, the definition of “success” is evolving, and Gen Z is responding to global uncertainty with new priorities. This session draws on research and recent articles to explore how generational values, cultural context, and economic realities are shaping students’ decisions about their futures.

'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.

Upcoming School Closure

Please take note of the upcoming school closure: