Dear AIS High School Community,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the High School division of the American International School Kuwait. Our High School division encompasses grades 9-12 where students complete the final two years, grade 9 and 10, of the International Baccalaureate’s Middle Years Programme (MYP), and are well-prepared to transition into the IB Diploma Programme (DP), grades 11 and 12. Our exceptional faculty and support staff, gathered from around the world, encourage students to develop to their fullest potential; challenge each to excel academically; contribute to our diverse and global learning environment; and develop students’ personal attributes and interests. Our team believes wholeheartedly in the development of the whole child and understands its importance throughout adolescence and in preparation for post high school studies and adulthood beyond. Upon graduation, our students proudly enter into many of the world’s most respected and top-rated universities, poised to be contributors and difference-makers in their world.
The High School division offers a wide array of courses which allow students to obtain a solid foundation in core academic subjects, then focus their interests in preparation for future career paths as well as continue to explore and expand their interests in other complimentary areas. Academic rigor comes through critical thinking and problem-solving, evaluation and innovation. Many of our assessments provide students opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge and skills within real-world contexts and in preparation for identifying and solving current and future world issues. Teachers provide meaningful critical feedback and challenge students to think beyond what is “right” or “wrong” and gain confidence in approaching unfamiliar situations, nurturing a mindset focused on continuous improvement. As part of the culmination of the Diploma Programme, students independently select a topic and complete an “Extended Essay” academic research project, under the oversight of an academic advisor, submitted for external assessment by the IB.
While high school students are expected to take an ever-increasing responsibility for their learning, parents are also encouraged to maintain their involvement in their child’s education and in preparation for university. Our experienced counseling team and program coordinators hold sessions throughout the year to aid in understanding high school course selection and the university application process. They are experts in helping students identify strengths and interests, then guiding families to discover universities which will be the best fit for students and best choices to pursue admittance. We also encourage parents to participate in our parent-student-teacher conferences in order to provide the best possible learner support at home. Of course, parents may reach out to teachers via phone or email at any time to check student progress and discuss any concerns.
Our school has a long and proud history of providing one of the strongest and most diverse extracurricular programs in the region to complement our academic offerings. AIS Kuwait is considered a leader within the country, and extending beyond our borders to the gulf region, in establishing both athletic and academic competition leagues, as well as performing arts festivals to give our students amazing opportunities to hone their talents and skills while building cross-cultural connections and friendships to last a lifetime. From football/soccer, volleyball, basketball, track and field…to academic games, speech and drama events, and our annual DP Art show…from choir and band workshops and festivals…to Model United Nations meets and service learning opportunities…every student can find an interest and develop a passion and purpose beyond themselves.
Whether you are a current member of our AIS family or visiting our website as a potential student, parent, or employee, I look forward to welcoming you to our school.
Paul Pallister
High School Principal