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In a globalised and climate-aware world, multicultural environmental education is essential for equipping young people with the knowledge and values needed for sustainable futures.

At UNIS Hanoi, our school identity and diverse community shape how we nurture globally minded learners. This article explores the meaning, practice, and impact of multicultural environmental education within our school.

What Is Multicultural Environmental Education?

Multicultural environmental education combines environmental learning with cultural perspectives to help students understand how different societies relate to the natural world.

It develops cross-cultural ecological literacy, enabling learners to recognise that environmental practices are influenced by history, identity, and community values.

This approach promotes global citizenship by encouraging students to examine environmental challenges from multiple viewpoints. It prepares them to engage thoughtfully with sustainability issues that transcend borders.

In international schools such as UNIS Hanoi, where cultural diversity is inherent in daily life, this approach is especially relevant. Students learn to navigate complex environmental questions through collaborative inquiry, respecting cultural differences while pursuing shared sustainable goals.

UNIS Hanoi as a Multicultural School Environment

With students representing more than 60 nationalities, UNIS Hanoi offers a learning environment shaped by varied cultural interpretations of nature, community, and responsibility.

English is our language of instruction, yet cultural identities are actively celebrated across curricular and co-curricular life. This diversity becomes a powerful resource, enabling students to examine global environmental issues through a range of cultural lenses.

Our community values align closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These values underpin our mission and guide our teaching practices, service programmes, and whole-school sustainability commitments.

How UNIS Hanoi Nurtures Multicultural Environmental Education

Multicultural environmental education is central to how we develop global citizens. Our approach ensures students engage with sustainability through cultural awareness, academic inquiry, and real-world application.

Embedding the SDGs via Curriculum & Service Learning

Our engagement with multicultural environmental education is strengthened through rigorous curriculum pathways and experiential learning opportunities.

Curriculum & Inquiry

We embed the SDGs across our IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP), ensuring coherence and continuity.

Inquiry-based learning encourages students to investigate global environmental issues through local cultural contexts, connecting science with lived experiences.

Service Learning

Our Service Learning Programme is integral to both curricular and co-curricular life.

Students collaborate with Vietnamese communities, NGOs, and local schools to address authentic sustainability issues. Projects include habitat conservation work, community water safety training, and educational initiatives in ethnic minority areas.

A structured cycle of investigation → planning → action → reflection ensures that students engage meaningfully and develop long-term relationships with partners.

Campus Design & Sustainability in Practice

Our campus features botanical gardens, green spaces, and sustainable architectural elements designed to serve as a living laboratory.

Tree-planting initiatives bring together students, families, and staff, blending cultural traditions with environmental stewardship.

Students regularly conduct surveys, ecological observations, and sustainability audits on campus, applying theory to real-world practice.

Multicultural Environmental Projects in Practice

Our environmental projects highlight the cultural diversity of our student body and the central role of community collaboration.

Cultural Heritage & Ecology

In our DP Environmental Systems & Societies course, students explore our Cultural Collection, analysing traditional Vietnamese tools and artefacts. Through this work, they investigate how historic Vietnamese lifestyles balanced, adapted to, or impacted natural resources.

Students from diverse nationalities exchange perspectives, building cross-cultural understanding of ecological practices.

Model United Nations (MUN)

Environmental topics frequently take centre stage in our MUN conferences, such as climate change mitigation, sustainable agriculture, and resource management.

Students from varied cultural backgrounds negotiate and draft resolutions, developing diplomatic skills and environmental leadership.

Younger learners participate in age-appropriate MUN-style forums where they debate sustainability issues through simplified parliamentary processes.

Co-Curricular & Community Programmes

Through our Community Programme, we offer workshops and clubs centred on gardening, conservation, and sustainability.

These activities involve students, parents, and local community members, creating cross-cultural participation in environmental learning.

Youth-led environmental advocacy clubs and project-based sustainability groups further extend students’ leadership.

Student Support Services – Inclusion in Environmental Education

Our commitment to multicultural environmental education is supported through an inclusive framework that ensures all learners can participate fully.

Structure of Support

Our Student Support team includes counsellors, an educational psychologist, speech and language therapists, learning support specialists, enrichment coordinators, and EAL teachers.

We adopt a holistic approach that integrates academic, social-emotional, linguistic, and well-being support.

Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS)

We implement an MTSS framework that provides universal (Tier 1), targeted (Tier 2), and individualised (Tier 3) interventions.

The Student Success Team, composed of teachers, specialists, and parents, collaborates to design tailored support strategies.

Language, Culture & Accessibility

EAL support ensures that students who are new to English can engage meaningfully with environmental education content.

We adapt learning materials for different linguistic needs and learning styles.

This approach ensures that environmental concepts remain accessible while fostering appreciation for diverse cultural perspectives.

Our Community Partnerships and Sustainability Commitments

Community partnerships are fundamental to our sustainability mission. We work closely with Vietnamese environmental organisations and NGOs to strengthen our students’ understanding of local ecological issues. These collaborations allow our learners to engage with experts, gain firsthand insights, and participate in local sustainability projects.

Our alignment with the SDGs shapes whole-school initiatives such as recycling programmes, waste-reduction campaigns, energy-awareness drives, and circular economy practices. They provide tangible examples of sustainability in action and encourage responsible habits.

We also host community events that celebrate cultural approaches to environmental stewardship. These events highlight traditional ecological knowledge, showcase student projects, and foster dialogue between families, local partners, and our school community.

How Our Students Benefit From Multicultural Environmental Education

Multicultural environmental education equips our students with academic, social, and ethical competencies essential for future leadership in a changing world. Through these experiences, they strengthen global awareness while developing practical skills.

• Students enhance cultural empathy and ecological awareness by understanding how communities worldwide interact with the environment.
• They develop critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills through inquiry projects, service learning, and MUN activities.
• Many become highly motivated to engage in meaningful environmental action at both local and global levels.
• They gain strong preparation for future pathways in sustainability, environmental science, international development, and global policy.

Partner With Us in Shaping Global Environmental Leaders

Multicultural environmental education empowers young people to navigate environmental challenges with cultural awareness, critical thinking, and global responsibility.

Visiting our campus provides first-hand insight into the multicultural learning environment that shapes students’ values and aspirations. We welcome applications from families who wish to join our international learning community and contribute to developing future global environmental leaders.

Today, many parents are seeking education systems that nurture both academic excellence and global awareness. This is where the International Baccalaureate (IB) stands out. But what is an IB school, and why do families across the world choose it?

This article will define the concept, explain its key features and values, explore the IB Diploma Programme, compare it with other education systems, outline its benefits, and highlight how UNIS Hanoi delivers the IB experience.

What is an IB School?

An International Baccalaureate (IB) school, also known as an IB World School, is a school authorised by the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) to deliver one or more IB programmes.

These schools meet rigorous international standards and are committed to providing a curriculum that promotes inquiry, intercultural understanding, and lifelong learning.

Many IB schools offer the full IB continuum, comprising the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). This continuum ensures coherence and progression throughout a child’s educational journey.

The IB curriculum encourages inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and international-mindedness, while fostering the IB Learner Profile – a set of attributes that help students become reflective, principled, and open-minded global citizens.

What Makes the IB Programme Distinctive – Features and Value

The IB programme is unique in its structure, philosophy, and outcomes. It offers students an education that goes beyond examinations to focus on intellectual, personal, emotional, and social growth.

Key features of the IB programme include:

• Broad curriculum: Students study a balanced range of subjects, from languages and sciences to humanities, arts, and mathematics, ensuring both depth and breadth.
• Critical thinking and inquiry: The IB encourages questioning, reasoning, and reflection rather than rote memorisation.
• Continuum of learning: The progression from PYP to MYP to DP creates consistency in educational approach and philosophy.

The value of the IB programme lies in its global recognition and holistic development of students:

• Global recognition: The IB Diploma is respected by leading universities worldwide.
• Preparation for the future: Students gain academic skills, adaptability, intercultural understanding, and self-management.
• Parental confidence: Parents appreciate the IB’s emphasis on student agency, balance, and transferable skills.
• Institutional value: For international schools like UNIS Hanoi, being an IB World School signals quality, international connectivity, and educational continuity for globally mobile families.

Understanding the Core of the IB Diploma Programme

At UNIS Hanoi, the IB Diploma Programme (DP) represents the culmination of a student’s IB journey. Designed for students aged 16–18, it provides a rigorous yet balanced education that prepares learners for higher education and life beyond school.

Students select subjects across six groups:

• Group 1 – Studies in Language and Literature: Language A – Literature; Language A – Language and Literature; Self-Taught Language A: Literature.
• Group 2 – Language Acquisition: Language B; Language ab initio (available at Standard Level only).
• Group 3 – Individuals and Societies: Economics, History, Psychology, Global Politics, Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS).
• Group 4 – Experimental Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS).
• Group 5 – Mathematics: Mathematics (Higher Level and Standard Level); Mathematical Studies (Standard Level).
• Group 6 – The Arts: Theatre, Film, Music, Visual Arts.

In addition to these subjects, the IB Diploma’s core components are what make it exceptional:

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Encourages students to reflect on the nature of knowledge and how we know what we claim to know.
• Extended Essay (EE): A 4,000-word independent research project that fosters academic writing and investigation.
• Creativity, Action, Service (CAS): Develops students beyond academics through creative pursuits, physical activity, and community engagement.

These elements together nurture well-rounded learners with academic rigour, research capability, and compassion.

How IB Compares With Other Education Programmes

Parents often compare the IB with other popular systems such as A-Levels (UK), Advanced Placement (AP) (US), or national curricula. The primary distinction is that the IB offers a comprehensive framework rather than a collection of individual subjects.

Unlike the A-Level or AP systems, where students select individual subjects and focus narrowly, the IB Diploma requires breadth across six subject groups along with its unique core elements. This structure ensures a more holistic education and encourages students to make connections across disciplines.

Furthermore, while many national programmes focus heavily on examinations, the IB assesses through both internal and external evaluations, valuing analytical writing, oral presentations, and practical projects. Its global orientation, emphasis on inquiry, and commitment to developing global citizens set it apart from more exam-driven curricula.

Parents should also note that many schools offer both IB and national programmes, allowing families to evaluate which best aligns with your child’s learning style and future goals.

The Benefits of Choosing an IB School

IB education extends beyond the classroom, preparing students for success in university and in life. Some of the key benefits include:

• Broader academic preparation: Students study a wide range of disciplines, achieving both depth and breadth of knowledge.
• Critical thinking and research skills: The Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and subject work foster independent analysis and reasoning.
• Preparation for global universities: The IB Diploma is recognised by universities worldwide, giving students access to international pathways.
• Development of the whole person: CAS activities promote creativity, service, and physical engagement, encouraging balance and well-being.
• International-mindedness and cultural awareness: The curriculum fosters respect for diversity and a sense of global citizenship.
• Lifelong learning skills: The IB nurtures curiosity, self-management, and reflection, helping students thrive in an ever-changing world.

UNIS Hanoi: Our IB Programme, Culture & Outcomes

Located in Hanoi, Vietnam, UNIS Hanoi is proud to be an authorised IB World School offering the full IB continuum: the PYP, MYP, and DP. Our international community of learners and educators is united by a mission to inspire lifelong learning, compassion, and leadership for a better world.

We deliver the IB philosophy through an inquiry-driven curriculum, experienced IB-trained faculty, and a supportive learning environment. Our facilities are designed to enhance both academic and co-curricular development, while our diverse student body brings global perspectives to daily learning.

In the Diploma Programme, students engage deeply with the IB core. They undertake Extended Essays under faculty mentorship, participate in TOK seminars that challenge assumptions, and complete CAS projects that connect them to both local and global communities.

We support parents and students throughout the IB journey through orientation sessions, university counselling, and workshops designed to help families understand and navigate the IB’s requirements. Our graduates consistently gain admission to leading universities worldwide, reflecting the strength and integrity of our IB education.

We invite families to visit our campus, attend open houses, or contact our admissions team to learn more about how our IB programmes can shape your child’s future.

A well-guided school tour can help you gain clarity, confidence, and connection with our community. Choosing the right international school is one of the most important decisions for your child’s future, and seeing the school firsthand is invaluable.

In this article, we explain why a school tour matters, common parent worries, what to expect on a UNIS Hanoi tour, questions to ask, how to prepare, and how to make your final decision.

Why Visiting a School Campus Makes a Difference

Visiting a school in person allows you to experience the environment beyond what brochures or websites can show. It helps you see how students learn, play, and interact within the school’s culture and community.

A school tour is a tangible way to assess the atmosphere and determine whether it aligns with your child’s personality and learning style.

By touring the campus, you can evaluate the school’s mission, values, and learning philosophy. It offers a chance to see the facilities, such as classrooms, libraries, and sports areas, and to ask about daily routines, pastoral care, and learning support.

You can also gauge logistical factors like location, commute time, and the design of age-appropriate spaces.

Furthermore, bringing your child along allows them to visualise themselves as part of the community, easing any anxiety about joining a new environment.

Common Parental Concerns During a School Tour

Parents often visit with several questions in mind, focusing on academics, well-being, and the school’s environment. The following areas commonly guide parents’ observations and discussions.

Academic Quality and Curriculum

One of the primary concerns for parents is whether the curriculum is rigorous and internationally recognised.

At UNIS Hanoi, we follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum, which fosters inquiry-based learning and independent thinking.

Parents should consider how the school supports transitions between grades and whether its teaching methods align with your child’s needs and interests.

Child Well-Being and Social-Emotional Support

Beyond academics, families often want assurance that their child will be known, cared for, and supported. A nurturing environment offers both emotional and academic growth. Parents should inquire about the school’s pastoral care systems, counselling services, and community programmes.

At UNIS Hanoi, inclusion and diversity are part of our identity, ensuring every student feels welcomed and valued.

Facilities, Resources and Co-Curricular Activities

Facilities play a key role in a student’s learning experience. Parents should look for modern, well-equipped classrooms, libraries, and specialised learning areas such as maker spaces or design labs.

At UNIS Hanoi, our campus features a botanical garden, adventure playground, and state-of-the-art sports facilities, reflecting our commitment to holistic education. Co-curricular activities in arts, athletics, and service learning further enrich each student’s journey.

Admissions, Fees and Practicalities

Understanding the admissions process is equally important. Parents often ask how priority admissions work, what fees cover, and whether scholarships or wait-pool systems apply.

Practical aspects such as transportation, class sizes, and campus access also influence decisions. During your visit, our Admissions Team will be available to clarify these details and guide you through the process.

What Parents Can Expect on the UNIS Hanoi School Tour

Our school tour is designed to provide families with a comprehensive overview of our community and learning environment. Each visit is tailored to offer insight into our academic philosophy and daily life on campus.

Welcome & Orientation

The tour begins with a warm welcome from our Admissions Team.

You will receive an introduction to our mission, vision, and values, with a brief overview of our IB programmes and learning philosophy.

Printed or digital materials about our curriculum, co-curricular activities, and campus map will also be provided.

Campus Walk and Facility Highlights

Parents are guided through key learning spaces, including the Early Childhood Centre, library, and sports areas such as full-sized fields and tennis courts.

You will also visit our maker space, design lab, and botanical garden, each reflecting our hands-on approach to learning.

The tour gives families a sense of how our facilities support both academic and personal development.

Meet Staff, Students & Ask Questions

Depending on the schedule, visitors may meet with programme coordinators, teachers, or members of the leadership team.

You may observe classes or speak with students to understand the school’s culture and sense of community.

We encourage you to ask questions about classroom routines, co-curricular activities, and student life to gain a complete picture of our daily operations.

Key Questions to Ask on the School Tour

Asking the right questions ensures your visit is both informative and meaningful. Here are some important ones to consider:

• How large are the class sizes at each grade level, and how does the teacher-student ratio support individual learning?
• How does the school support students with different learning needs or English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners?
• What is the transition process when students move between Primary and Secondary or join from other schools?
• What opportunities exist for parent involvement, and how does the school communicate with families?
• How are extracurricular and co-curricular activities structured across age groups?
• What are the technology, library, and maker-space resources available to students?
• What are the transport options, campus security procedures, and lunch arrangements?
• What is the school’s approach to assessment, feedback, and reporting?

How to Get Ready for Your Campus Visit

Preparation can help you make the most of your visit and ensure you gather the information you need. Here are practical steps to consider:

• Book your tour early and choose between an in-person or virtual option.
• Prepare questions that address your family’s priorities and your child’s specific needs.
• Bring your child if possible; their reactions often reveal valuable insights.
• Observe the school’s atmosphere: how students and staff interact and how welcoming the environment feels.
• Note logistical factors like commute time, parking, and after-school care.
• If possible, visit during a regular school day to experience the campus in full operation.
• Dress comfortably, as you may walk across multiple areas.
• Take notes or photos to record impressions.
• For virtual tours, request live footage or a Q&A session with staff.

After the Tour: Making Your Decision

After your school tour, reflect on your experience. Did the school feel right for your child? Did what you observed align with your expectations? Compare the academic offerings, facilities, and community atmosphere with your priorities. Discuss the visit with your child to understand their impressions.

Once you feel confident, proceed with your application while keeping alternative options in mind. Remember, a school tour is one of many important steps in choosing the right school for your family.

To schedule your campus or virtual tour, contact our Admissions Team at +84 (24) 7300 4508 or admissions@unishanoi.org.

Understanding how to choose the right school for your child means balancing academics, values, environment, and personal growth. Every child is unique with distinct learning styles, strengths, and needs.

At UNIS Hanoi, we believe in partnering with parents to make informed choices that nurture each child’s potential. In this guide, we walk you through essential criteria, practical steps, and how our school can serve as the ideal environment for your child’s growth.

4 Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Child’s School

Understanding these factors will guide your search and help you determine how to choose the right school for your child more effectively.

1. Establish Your Child’s And Family’s Priorities

Start by identifying your child’s learning style: are they visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learners? Recognising this helps match them with teaching approaches that bring out their best.

Next, consider your family’s core values and how the school’s ethos aligns, whether it emphasises international-mindedness, community service, or academic excellence.

Ask yourself practical questions:

• Does your child need specific support, such as English as an Additional Language (EAL), learning-difference assistance, or gifted education?
• How do logistics like commute time, proximity to home or work, and after-school care fit your family routine?
• What are your non-negotiables versus preferences? Writing down “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” helps prioritise decisions.

2. Examine Academic Quality and Curriculum

A school’s curriculum shapes both the content and style of your child’s learning. Investigate whether the curriculum is international, national, or bilingual, and whether it fosters the intellectual curiosity and adaptability your child will need for future success.

Consider:

• Teacher qualifications, ongoing professional development, and staff retention. Quality teaching depends on educators who are skilled, motivated, and supported.
• Class sizes and student-teacher ratios, which directly impact how much individual attention your child receives.
• Assessment methods: how frequently and transparently does the school report on student progress?
• Integration of technology and how it enhances rather than replaces real learning.
• Opportunities for creativity, problem-solving, and independent inquiry in teaching methods.

A strong curriculum should foster curiosity and independence, not just memorisation.

3. Review School Culture, Support Services & Extracurriculars

Academic performance is only one part of a fulfilling education. The school’s culture, values, and social environment are equally decisive in shaping a child’s sense of belonging and motivation.

Look at:

• The school’s atmosphere: does it foster diversity, inclusion, empathy, and mutual respect?
• Support services such as EAL programmes, counselling, and learning enhancement support.
• Extracurricular options from arts and athletics to debate and robotics that allow children to explore and express their interests beyond the classroom.
• How clearly the school’s mission and values are defined, and whether they are reflected in everyday teaching and student interactions.
• Parent involvement: are families encouraged to engage meaningfully with the school community? A strong parent-school partnership leads to more consistent support for children.

4. Practical Considerations: Cost, Logistics, Future Pathways

Beyond philosophy and academics, practical factors heavily influence long-term satisfaction.

Key considerations include:

• Tuition fees, scholarships, and extra costs such as uniforms or field trips.
• Location, transportation options, and campus safety.
• How the school manages transitions from early years to secondary or towards university preparation.
• Accreditation and reputation: does the school hold recognised credentials?
• Future adaptability: will the school continue to meet your child’s evolving needs?

A Step-By-Step Process To Choose Your Child’s School

Once you understand what to look for, take a systematic approach to find the right fit. The following steps can help guide your decision-making process.

Step 1: Research And Gather Information

Begin by exploring school websites, brochures, and accreditation reports. Build a comparison checklist covering academics, support, facilities, and cost to organise your findings.

Align each school’s profile with your family’s priorities. Contact admissions offices for detailed information on recent academic results, class sizes, and curriculum outcomes to ensure transparency and fit.

Step 2: Visit, Talk To Staff And Observe The School Environment

A school visit offers invaluable insight into its daily life. Schedule tours to observe classrooms and witness teacher-student interactions.

Engage with school leadership to discuss teacher development, diversity, and student well-being. Observe campus conditions from facilities to the community atmosphere.

Conversations with current parents and students can also provide authentic perspectives that online resources may not capture.

Compare your impressions across schools to see which environment aligns best with your child’s personality and needs.

Step 3: Reflect And Make The Decision

After gathering information, take time to reflect.

Review your checklist to see how each option performs across key areas. Consider intangible factors: your intuition, your child’s comfort, and overall family alignment.

Think long-term about how the school will continue to support growth.

If your child is older, include them in the decision; their perspective and emotional comfort matter greatly.

Why UNIS Hanoi Could Be The Right School Choice For Your Child

UNIS Hanoi is an independent, non-profit, co-educational English-language day school serving students from Discovery (age 3) to Grade 12. Representing over 60 nationalities and more than 35 home languages, we provide a truly international learning community that fosters respect, collaboration, and global citizenship.

We are proud to offer the full continuum of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP).

Our accreditation by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) reflects our commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement.

Our campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including flexible learning spaces, maker spaces, a swimming pool, a sports complex, and a performing arts centre.

Beyond academics, we emphasise service-learning and sustainability, honouring our United Nations heritage through programmes that connect students with global issues and real-world problem-solving.

At UNIS Hanoi, we are more than a school; we are a dynamic community where students are encouraged to lead, explore, and connect. We cultivate academic success, integrity, resilience, and compassion, the qualities that prepare our graduates for life beyond the classroom.

Your Child’s School Journey Starts Here With UNIS Hanoi

Deciding how to choose the right school for your child is both a practical and emotional journey. At UNIS Hanoi, we are ready to support your family at every step.

Schedule a campus tour or virtual visit to experience our community firsthand, and meet our admissions team to discuss how we can meet your child’s unique learning needs. Together, we can ensure your child’s educational journey begins in an environment where they can truly flourish.

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for any family, and understanding the process of student recruitment can help you make the right choice.

At UNIS Hanoi, we take pride in offering a global curriculum, an inclusive community, and a deep commitment to the values of the United Nations.

This article guides parents through our recruitment and admissions process, what to prepare, and essential considerations when applying to UNIS Hanoi.

Student Recruitment at UNIS Hanoi: What Makes Us Different

At UNIS Hanoi, our recruitment approach reflects our educational philosophy and global vision. We are a community where internationalism, academic excellence, and personal growth thrive together.

Recruitment Philosophy & School Values

Our recruitment philosophy is grounded in curiosity, community, integrity, courage, diversity, and responsibility. We strive to nurture lifelong learners who act with compassion and integrity in an ever-changing world.

As one of only two United Nations schools worldwide, our programme reflects the ideals and principles of the United Nations, emphasising respect for diversity and global citizenship.

We actively promote cultural diversity through our admissions policy, ensuring a balanced representation of nationalities in each grade.

We have a priority to maintain an inclusive international environment, and our prioritisation lanes ensure fair access to families affiliated with the UN, the diplomatic corps, and the wider expatriate and Vietnamese community.

Application Process & Key Stages

The UNIS Hanoi student recruitment process is structured into four key stages:

1. Application: Families submit the required documents and a non-refundable fee.
2. Assessment: Applicants complete interviews or assessments according to their age and grade level.
3. Review: The Admissions Committee carefully reviews each application based on our policies and capacity.
4. Decision & Placement: Offers are made according to space availability, placement criteria, and prioritisation lanes.

Please note that submitting an application and fee does not guarantee placement until the review process is complete.

Admissions Policies & Placement Criteria

Our admissions process is guided by policies that support diversity and academic readiness while maintaining balance across the school community.

• Cultural Diversity Policy: We maintain a truly international student body by limiting the percentage of any single nationality.
• EAL & Learning Support Capacity: Placement is dependent on available spaces in English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Learning Support programmes.
• Priority Lanes: Admissions gives priority to families affiliated with the United Nations, the diplomatic corps, siblings of current students, alumni families, expatriates, and Vietnamese nationals.
• Grade Placement Guidance: Placement decisions consider age, previous school calendars, and academic readiness. For the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), prerequisites must be met for entry.

Timeline & Availability

We begin issuing offers in March each year, following the priority lanes. Rolling admissions are accepted throughout the school year; however, placement is dependent on space availability and student withdrawals.

For the best chance of securing a place, we recommend families complete your application by mid-February. Early preparation ensures sufficient time for assessment, review, and decision-making.

What Parents Should Prepare Before Applying to UNIS Hanoi

Before beginning the application, families should ensure they have all required documentation ready and understand the steps involved in assessments and contractual obligations.

Documents Checklist & Application Materials

Families are required to provide complete and accurate documentation to support their application.

• For family:
  • School records of 2 previous complete years (not required for preschool applicants)
  • Student photo
  • Parent photo
  • Student passport
  • Questionnaire(s)
  • Payment receipts
  • Standardised testing results (grades 3-11)
  • Unofficial High School transcript (grades 9-11)
• For the current school:
  • Teacher/school recommendation
  • Writing sample (grades 1-5)

Preparing for Assessments & Interviews

UNIS Hanoi conducts age-appropriate assessments and interviews to ensure students are well-matched to the academic and social environment of the school.

• Early Years (EY3/EY4/K): Children participate in Play Experience sessions to assess social interaction, language development, and fine motor skills.
• EY–G5: Parents attend interviews to share information about your child’s learning habits and personality.
• Grades 1–5: Student interviews are held with teachers or admissions officers to understand the applicant’s educational background and interests.
• Grades 1–12: Applicants may complete online academic and English proficiency assessments to evaluate their readiness for an international curriculum.

Costs & Contractual Considerations

The application fee is nonrefundable. Once a placement is offered, parents may be required to sign an enrolment contract and pay a tuition deposit to confirm the space.

Families should also consider visa and immigration requirements, especially for expatriate applicants.

We recommend that families plan your budgets carefully, considering tuition, fees, and other potential relocation costs to ensure a smooth transition into the UNIS Hanoi community.

Key Notes for Parents During Student Recruitment

Throughout the student recruitment process, it is important for families to ensure alignment with UNIS Hanoi’s values and prepare their child for a successful transition.

Aligning Family Values & School Culture

We seek families who share our mission to develop lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.

Parents are encouraged to discuss with your child what it means to join a diverse international community and to embrace respect for different cultures.

Visiting our campus, attending open houses, or scheduling a tour can help families experience our unique environment firsthand.

Supporting the Transition

Transitioning into a new school can be a major change, particularly in an international setting.

Parents should speak with their child about new routines, peer groups, and languages. Early Years students often adjust through play-based learning, while older students may require continuity in curriculum and academic expectations.

For Grades 11–12, entry into the IB Diploma Programme requires specific prerequisites. Families should also communicate any EAL or Learning Support needs early in the process.

Understanding Placement & Space Availability

Placement decisions depend on space availability within each grade, as well as EAL and Learning Support capacities.

If no space is available, students may be placed into a wait pool for future consideration. We recommend early submission of applications, as later ones may face higher competition.

Parents can stay updated on your application status through the Admissions Portal and by maintaining contact with our Admissions Office.

Ready to Be Part of Our Community? Apply Now

We warmly invite families to apply for the 2026–27 academic year and become part of our thriving international community. Begin your journey by visiting our website and clicking Apply Now.

To gain a deeper insight, book a campus tour or contact our Admissions Office at +84 (24) 7300 4508 or email admissions@unishanoi.org. Our team is here to support you with grade placement guidance, visa information, or any other questions during your child’s journey to UNIS Hanoi.

Student voice is about enabling students to speak their minds, shape classroom decisions. Student choice builds on this by enabling young people to have control over subject matter, learning format, setting, or timeline.

Student voice and choice enable agency, engagement, and ownership that goes beyond academic achievement. This article explores their importance in modern education, the best practices to encourage them, and how UNIS Hanoi integrates these principles into daily life.

Importance of Student Voice and Choice

When schools weave these practices into learning to make it inspiring and relevant, students can excel academically, socially, and emotionally.

The benefits of student voice and choice transform into skills, self-confidence, and preparation for global citizenship:

• Increases Engagement & Motivation: Student-selected tasks and topics ignite inner interest, leading to increased energy and perseverance in learning. When learners feel connected to the subject matter, they naturally strive harder.
• Boosts Academic Performance: Active participation enables deeper understanding and long-term retention of material. When students ask questions and pursue their own inquiries, the learning becomes personalised and memorable.
• Develops Future-Focused Skills: Encouraging student voice and choice builds essential 21th century competencies such as creativity, adaptability, problem-solving, and reflective thinking, which prepare students for uncertain futures.
• Strengthens Self-Confidence & Self-Efficacy: By giving students control over their work, they take risks, learn from mistakes, and become resilient problem-solvers, capable of independent thinking.
• Fosters Positive Relationships & Trust: When teachers actively listen to students, a culture of mutual respect develops. Students become open, creating healthier relationships and partnerships.
• Promotes Belonging & Well-being: Feeling valued strengthens emotional security. Students who experience voice and choice are more likely to feel a sense of community and belonging at school.
• Empowerment & Agency: Beyond the classroom, students view themselves as co-designers of learning, with agency to contribute to positive change and be a valuable contributor to group decision-making.

Top 6 Ways to Promote Student Voice and Choice

Schools can nurture voice and choice through purposeful practices that blend structure and autonomy. The 6 strategies outlined below are the most effective for creating a culture of agency and accountability with high academic standards.

1. Project-Based Learning (PBL)

Project-Based Learning is likely the best method for embedding student voice and choice.

The students select the subject they want to study, create their own driving questions, and determine how they will present their research.

By working towards authentic outcomes, such as exhibitions or community projects, learners develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

At UNIS Hanoi, The Phoenix’s Nest embodies this approach. Students are project owners as diverse as sustainability campaigns, cultural studies, or technological innovations. These projects demonstrate how active learning turns theory into action with critical real-world concerns.

2. Student-Led Clubs and Initiatives

When students organise and operate their own clubs, they practice imagination, initiative, and organisational skills. Clubs can be drama, robotics, debating, sustainability, or social justice.

Student agency is applied daily at UNIS Hanoi in these projects. Students plan clubs, manage logistics, recruit members, and sustain activity over time. It prepares young people for school and life leadership.

3. Involving Students in Class Decisions

Engaging students in supporting classroom decisions, such as selecting reading material, choosing project formats, or setting deadlines, helps them build responsibility. This inclusivity fosters ownership, reduces passivity, and enhances confidence.

In our IB programmes at UNIS Hanoi, students are motivated to craft their learning experience. Paired with ongoing communication with parents, this practice ensures children feel both supported and empowered.

4. Encouraging Collaboration & Shared Decision-Making

Co-operation teaches students the values of mutual responsibility and compassionate leadership. Through multiple experiments with group work and leadership, students acquire the art of compromise, negotiation, and consensus-building.

Student councils, leadership programmes, and major school activities like UNISMUN and UN Day at UNIS Hanoi allow students to exercise influence at both classroom and school levels. These experiences cultivate a sense of ownership over the school culture itself.

5. Regular Student Feedback & Reflection

Student voice facilitates deep learning. Gathering feedback from journals, reflective activities, surveys, or exit tickets ensures that instruction evolves in response to student needs.

At UNIS Hanoi, there is an anonymous student-teacher feedback system that provides a secure and structured setting for students to share honest perspectives.

Teachers respond by modifying approaches to teaching, demonstrating respect and responsiveness. This enhances teaching and strengthens the message that students’ voices count in learning.

6. Celebrating Student Work and Achievements

Validation is necessary for building students’ agency. Sharing achievements through exhibitions, performances, and assemblies authenticates the values of students’ work.Recognition instils pride and confidence.

UNIS Hanoi’s PYPx and MYP exhibitions highlight this philosophy. The students select topics for projects and design their presentations, making these events authentic reflections of their interests, skills, and passions.

These events remind students that what they are doing is important and deserves to be seen.

Why UNIS Hanoi Champions Student Voice and Choice

Being Vietnam’s first and only IB World School to offer all three programmes (PYP, MYP, DP), UNIS Hanoi features student-focused instruction throughout the entire learning journey. Our philosophy extends beyond the classroom, focusing on cultivating well-rounded, thoughtful, and proactive individuals.

At our Elementary School, we enable students to discover their voice and personally make sense of their school life. By tailoring their learning pathways to meet their individual needs, students develop purposefully and with confidence.

Dialogue and shared decision-making are embedded throughout our classrooms. Whether deciding how to approach a science experiment or voicing opinions in literature discussions, students actively influence learning pathways. This reflects the heart of the IB pedagogy, which values inquiry, reflection, and critical engagement.

A commitment to United Nations values strengthens this practice. We believe education should empower learners to become agents of change who use their voices to advocate for justice, equity, and sustainability.

By embedding student voice and choice into everything we do, UNIS Hanoi educates young adults to contribute in a positive way to local and global society.

Empowering Through Voice and Choice at UNIS Hanoi

At UNIS Hanoi, we are committed to building a community where students are not passive recipients of knowledge but active co-creators of their education. Student voice and choice empower young people to feel seen, heard, and capable of shaping their world.

Parents can rest assured that your children will grow in an environment where agency, belonging, and achievement are the centre of learning. Experience how your child’s voice and choice truly matter at UNIS Hanoi. Apply today and take the first step towards a transformative educational journey!

Stress management techniques for students are essential to academic achievement and overall well-being. International students, especially, must navigate unique stresses like adjustment to new school environments, culture, learning a new language, and tighter academic pressures.

This guide explores 8 practical and effective techniques designed to empower students in their daily lives. At UNIS Hanoi, we are dedicated to students’ well-being through defined channels of support toward all-around development.

Top Stress Management Techniques for Students

Although every student experiences stress differently, there are proven stress management techniques for students that significantly reduce its impact. The following 8 strategies are practical, accessible, and consistent with our whole child programmes at UNIS Hanoi.

1. Prioritise Sleep, Nutrition, and Physical Activity

Improved sleep increases concentration, memory, and mood control. Healthy food powers the brain and body for studying, while physical training strengthens concentration, energy levels, and emotional balance.

Lack of sleep and irregular eating create a cycle of stress, making even small challenges overwhelming. Exercise, a walk, yoga, or a team sport is a tension reliever and a confidence booster.

At UNIS Hanoi, our School Health Centre provides education on sleep hygiene, balanced diets, and physical fitness. Co-curricular activities offer opportunities for sport and wellness activities where healthy lifestyles become everyday routines.

2. Practise Mindfulness, Meditation, and Grounding Techniques

Mindfulness practices such as deep breathing (including the 4-7-8 method), box breathing, or the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise can immediately lower stress levels. Meditation encourages emotional regulation, while grounding restores calm during high-pressure situations.

UNIS Hanoi integrates mindfulness into everyday life. Mindful eating habits during breaks illustrate to younger students how awareness can reduce stress, while older students have formalised counselling periods with mindfulness activities and regulation of emotions skills.

3. Use Relaxation Techniques: Guided Imagery, Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Autogenic Training

Guided imagery is visualising peaceful, calm environments, such as a beach or a forest, to allow the mind to become free from anxiety.

Progressive muscle relaxation is tensing and relaxing muscle groups with consciousness of tension in body areas. Autogenic training, through repeated self-suggesting, induces a sense of warmth and calm.

At UNIS Hanoi, counsellors guide students to apply these skills on their own or through group workshops, maintaining safe spaces where they learn stress management.

4. Time Management, Planning, and Saying No

With planning, students can prevent last-minute stress and burnout. Making lists, segmenting the tasks into steps, and rank ordering of priorities keep the workload in harmony.

Saying no is also similar, taking on more commitments allows quality over quantity in school life and social life.

Specialised support from UNIS Hanoi Student Success Teams involves coaching students in organisation, study routines, and balancing school and extracurricular activities. These approaches enable students to thrive without sacrificing their well-being.

5. Social Support and Counselling

Friendships, family, and supportive adult mentors all provide encouragement and perspective.

Open communication helps students feel heard and understood, which reduces feelings of isolation. Professional counselling enables the student to problem-solve and establish positive coping strategies.

At UNIS Hanoi, our Trained Counsellors and Psychologists are part of the Student Success Teams and offer wrap-around guidance that is accessible to students both academically and emotionally to foster resilience outside of the classroom.

6. Spend Time in Nature and Outdoors

Nature settings reduce blood pressure, calm anxiety, and improve mood. Outdoor activity, whether a brief walk, gardening, or outdoor learning, is a peaceful break from computer screens and academic pressures.

At UNIS Hanoi, students benefit from a lush green campus that invites exploration and relaxation.

Outdoor classes, field trips, and expeditions promote both well-being and discovery, connecting students to the environment in ways that enhance their overall education.

7. Creative Outlets: Music, Art, Journaling

Creative activities offer a safe outlet for emotions and can help students process stress in positive ways.

Listening or playing music, for example, can be used to relax and to express. Journaling lets students process thoughts and reflect on experience, becoming clearer and more problem-solving. Art provides non-verbal ways of coping with unpleasant feelings, tending to soothe when words fall short.

These practices nurture creativity, resilience, and self-understanding.

UNIS Hanoi’s Enrichment & Extension programmes provide structured opportunities for music, visual arts, and creative writing, ensuring students have multiple avenues to explore and regulate their emotions.

8. Build Resilience and Self-Awareness

Resilience enables students to persevere through challenges, while self-awareness allows them to recognise stress signals and act accordingly. Routines, realistic goal-setting, and the ability to learn from mistakes foster resilience.

Self-awareness empowers students to identify emotional triggers, acknowledge their impact, and seek support when needed. Both qualities are essential life skills that extend into adulthood.

At UNIS Hanoi, resilience and self-awareness are embedded in the curriculum through well-being programmes, reflective activities, and personal goal-setting exercises.

Students are consistently guided to embrace setbacks as learning opportunities, strengthening their confidence and adaptability.

Why UNIS Hanoi Supports Effective Stress Management for Students

At UNIS Hanoi, we understand that academic success and emotional health are inseparable. Our well-being framework offers comprehensive, multi-layered support designed to respond to the diverse needs of our international student body.

Our provision includes:

• Comprehensive Student Support Services: Collaboration between counsellors, psychologists, and Student Success Teams ensures that both academic and emotional challenges are addressed.
• Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS): Tailored interventions provide personalised support at varying levels, ensuring each student receives what they need to succeed.
• Health and Well-being Infrastructure: Our School Health Centre, staffed by experienced nurses, delivers care and education on essential topics such as sleep, nutrition, and healthy living.
• Integrated Programmes: Mindfulness, resilience training, and emotional awareness are part of daily routines, ensuring consistency and reinforcement of good habits.
• Creative Enrichment Opportunities: Students participate in programmes that promote music, drama, and visual arts, enhancing both creative growth and emotional balance.
• Outdoor and Experiential Learning: With access to our expansive green campus, field trips, and community-based projects, students build connections to nature and to one another.

This multi-faceted approach ensures that students at UNIS Hanoi acquire practical stress management techniques and experience growth that is personal, social, and academic.

Nurturing Stronger, Healthier Students Together with UNIS Hanoi

Stress management techniques for students are essential for fostering resilience, confidence, and long-term success. At UNIS Hanoi, we are committed to nurturing an environment in which emotional well-being and academic performance are equally prioritised.

We invite families to partner with us in creating a supportive community where learners grow stronger, healthier, and more capable of handling life’s challenges. Contact us today to learn more about our wellbeing programmes and discover how your child can thrive at UNIS Hanoi.

By addressing diversity in classrooms, including differences in abilities, languages, cultures, and backgrounds, schools ensure that every child feels valued and able to succeed. For parents, understanding how inclusivity works in practice helps them make informed choices about their child’s education.

In this article, we explore what an inclusive learning environment is, why we need it, how we construct it, and how we at UNIS Hanoi embody the philosophy on a daily basis.

Definition of Inclusive Learning Environment

An inclusive learning environment is a constructively created setting where all students, regardless of their background, ability, or identity, have the same chance to learn and are encouraged to do their best.

It is not simply physical integration or sitting in the same room; it is about making genuine provision for all learners to succeed.

The main features of an inclusive learning environment include:

• Equity in teaching and assessment: ensuring no student falls behind due to how content is presented or tested.
• Universal Design for Learning (UDL): purposely designing lessons so they are available to the most students from the beginning.
• Proactive removal of barriers: identifying and addressing challenges before they hinder learning or participation.

Behind these practices are guiding values: respect, cooperation, participation, and belonging. An inclusive classroom views each child as active members of the community.

Importantly, inclusion also incorporates the belief that teachers, peers, and the broader school community share responsibility for making every child included and welcome.

Why Inclusive Learning Environments Matter

Inclusive learning environments are fair in principle and beneficial in measurable ways. These classrooms help build academic resilience, social-emotional resilience, and readiness for diverse societies.

1. Academic Benefits for All Students

Students with diverse learning needs often perform better in inclusive classrooms than in separate settings, as they have equal opportunities to engage with challenging content alongside their peers.

At the same time, classmates in inclusive settings experience neutral or positive achievement outcomes, with evidence showing improvements through greater engagement and collaboration.

UDL-based instruction, offering multiple representations of content, varied opportunities for expression, and flexible ways of engaging, has been demonstrated to enhance motivation, persistence, and problem-solving in students.

This also benefits parents as well, by ensuring that children of all backgrounds progress at a pace that reflects their potential. Parents can be confident that their child is not left behind, nor held back, but challenged and facilitated appropriately.

2. Social and Emotional Development

Beyond academics, inclusive classrooms nurture empathy, respect, and acceptance.

Everyday interaction with students from varying backgrounds socialises students further, lessens prejudice, and becomes more empathic prosocial behaviour. For instance, they learn to be effective listeners, value diversity as strength, and communicate cooperatively.

Inclusion also promotes better emotional well-being. Children feel less anxious and are more secure when they are observing themselves as being included and accepted.

For parents, this means your children are learning content and building resilience, emotional intelligence, and life skills.

3. Equity, Diversity, and Societal Preparedness

Inclusive education upholds the principle that all children can learn and are entitled to fair, age-specific education. It views differences in ability, culture, language, socio-economic background, gender, and so on.

By eliminating barriers and offering equal access, schools are directly supporting social justice.

These environments break down stereotypes and cultivate mutual respect.

In the long term, inclusive education prepares the student to perform well in multicultural and diverse communities.

For parents, this translates into confidence that your child is being equipped for a world where flexibility, respect, and inclusivity are required skills.

How to Build an Inclusive Learning Environment

Incorporating inclusivity requires careful planning, consistent culture reinforcement, and strong support systems. At UNIS Hanoi, we build an inclusive culture based on UDL, accessibility, respect, and professional growth. Below are key strategies we implement.

1. Differentiated Instruction & Universal Design (UDL)

We structure lessons on UDL principles through different means of representation, engagement, and expression.

All students are able to learn in the most helpful way to them. Teachers apply flexible grouping, multiple assessments, and scaffolded activities to address diverse students. Our Student Success Teams partner with teachers to craft personalised strategies for individual needs.

In literature units at UNIS Hanoi, some students may choose to write essays, others may produce digital storytelling projects, and still others may create visual presentations. Every learner’s strengths are recognised and valued equally.

2. Accessible Physical & Social Environment

We work to minimise physical and psychological barriers on our campus. There are ramps, sensory rooms, and adaptive seating spaces to enable comfort and access.

Teachers use assistive technology, visual routines, and clear schedules to create predictable, calming environments. Social inclusion is also actively cultivated through structured peer interactions.

UNIS Hanoi’s outdoor learning allows children to learn outdoors to meet sensory and physical needs to include all children in active participation.

3. Inclusive Classroom Culture

Culture is the backbone of inclusion. We at UNIS honour diversity of language, culture, and personality and use differences as strength.

Respect, empathy, and acceptance norms are developed daily in interactions. Teachers model inclusive language and create open dialogue about equity, identity, and belonging.

On International Day, UNIS Hanoi students celebrate their traditions, histories, and languages, building appreciation for differences and reinforcing school-wide inclusivity.

4. Collaborative and Supportive Practices

We foster inclusion by engaging students in working together. We employ buddy systems to induct new students and provide support.

Peer mentoring and collaborative projects promote peer responsibility. Inclusive support models and co-teaching provide assistance to learners with additional needs without segregation.

At UNIS Hanoi project-based and service learning, diverse teams cooperate in solving real-world problems.

Every contribution counts, illustrating for students that teamwork relies on diversity of knowledge and viewpoint.

5. Leadership, Policy & Professional Development

At UNIS Hanoi, school leadership is central to developing inclusive practice. Our policies reflect our commitment to promoting diversity, while resources ensure this mission is supported in the classroom.

We invest in staff professional development in UDL, culturally responsive teaching, and equity practices. Our Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) system provides early identification of academic or emotional needs, followed by targeted interventions.

UNIS Hanoi teachers regularly attend pedagogy of inclusion workshops, where they keep refining approaches in teaching multilingual students, overcoming unseen barriers, and embracing diversity.

Grow Your Child in an Inclusive Community with UNIS Hanoi

An inclusive learning environment fosters academic performance and social-emotional growth and life-readiness skills.

At UNIS Hanoi, we live this mission daily through reflective design, culture of belonging, and professional commitment to continuous refinement.

Experience how inclusion shapes our student-centred approach to education. Connect with us today and explore how your child can thrive in our inclusive, supportive community.

Innovative teaching strategies are creative, evidence-based approaches that enable active, tailored, and culturally responsive learning. In today’s complex world, students must be empowered to think critically, respond flexibly, and act meaningfully with the problems they face.

Below, we present 8 innovative teaching strategies with specific examples of how we at UNIS Hanoi apply them in our classrooms to promote curiosity, motivation, and lifelong learning.

8 Top Innovative Teaching Strategies to Inspire Student Engagement

We implemented these innovative teaching strategies here at UNIS Hanoi to create student engagement, encourage creativity, and foster global competence. We integrate each strategy purposefully into our curriculum to establish curiosity, reflection, and thoughtful collaboration.

1. Active and Inquiry-Driven Techniques

Active and inquiry approaches place learners at the centre. Instead of passively absorbing information, students acquire knowledge through finding out, asking questions, and constructing knowledge with others. Inquiry-based learning draws on children’s curiosity to help them be responsible for their learning process.

These techniques, like think-pair-share, peer discussions, Socratic seminars, or problem-based questioning, foster engagement and encourage deeper connections.

Active learning strategies are the foundation of our UNIS Hanoi IB inquiry units.

Faculty regularly employ think-pair-share and similar techniques, supported by faculty development sessions that strengthen teachers’ facilitation skills. Classrooms transform into vibrant, engaging, and dialogue-filled environments.

2. Project-Based Learning (PBL)

Project-Based Learning is long-term, real-world projects where students acquire knowledge, collaborate, and reflect to address actual problems. It builds grit, autonomy, and capacity far beyond the test. Children learn to pose questions, develop plans, tackle timelines, and document outcomes.

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is flourishing at UNIS Hanoi with projects like our STEAM Project Week where students create models of sustainable cities using advanced digital tools.

We also collaborate with local NGOs, offering students an opportunity to work on critical environmental concerns and offer solutions to community stakeholders.

Additionally, our MYP “Phoenix’s Nest” project motivates students to embrace sustainability issues, researching alternatives for disposable plastics, designing solar power systems, or planning cultural heritage exhibitions that integrate art, history, and design.

3. Interdisciplinary Learning

Interdisciplinary learning integrates multiple subject areas to explore problems holistically. Combining data from science, humanity, mathematics, and art, students acquire global understanding, critical thinking, and understand relationships that are hard to define in isolated study.

Interdisciplinary units form a central part of our Middle Years Programme at UNIS Hanoi.

Projects, for instance, may challenge students to explore historical issues through evidence from science or resolve environmental problems in creative performance.

By approaching problems in this way, students become intellectually flexible and prepare themselves to deal with complexity with ease.

4. Challenge-Based Learning (CBL)

Challenge-Based Learning teaches students to work together to tackle real-world problems with authentic outcomes.

Based on Apple’s ACOT2 model, CBL takes problem-solving an extra step by placing responsibility in students’ hands. They identify meaningful challenges, research, develop solutions, and test results.

At UNIS Hanoi, service-learning is deeply connected with CBL. Students address real issues in the local area such as wildlife conservation, fairness in education, or urban environment.

They design projects with real-world impact, from creating awareness campaigns to designing helpful tools or partnerships.

Reflection is central: students review both failure and success, which refines their skills for the future. This blend of doing and reflecting builds empathy, civic responsibility, and resilience.

5. Personalised & Blended Learning

Personalised and blended learning adapts instruction to suit individual learners’ needs.

With online and classroom learning, students receive flexibility while still benefiting from teacher guidance. This format recognises that each learner is unique and works towards creating customised paths to success.

We encourage individualised paths within UNIS Hanoi via individual mentoring, reflective diaries, and goal-setting. Students utilise planners for planning academic goals and well-being, blending teacher-led courses with self-paced study.

For example, a student who is good in maths but has difficulties with writing can receive differentiated support while maintaining overall progress. This approach promotes autonomy, accountability, and allows all students to receive scaffolding they need to thrive academically and emotionally.

6. Gamification & Game-Based Learning

Gamification takes concepts from game-like frameworks, points, challenges, or narrative and uses them in the classroom, and game-based learning has formally constructed games designed for meeting learning goals.

Both are leveraging intrinsic student motivation to make learning experiences more enjoyable and rewarding.

At UNIS Hanoi, gamification is just beginning to shape inquiry units.

For instance, students are given points for collaboration, can gain levels of inquiry as they master ideas, or solve story-challenges that make learning come alive.

Early trials suggest that gamification strengthens focus, builds resilience, and encourages collaborative problem-solving. As it develops further, this practice will be an influential addition to existing practices.

7. Reflective & Metacognitive Practices

By analysing their thinking habits, students discover their strengths, weaknesses and how to progress. These skills enable children to learn how to learn, which is invaluable in a world where information is constantly changing.

At UNIS Hanoi, reflective practice is embedded at all levels of curriculum.

Students maintain journals, set learning goals, and participate in mentoring sessions to monitor progress. Teachers guide learners to create hypotheses, test assumptions, and critically evaluate outcomes.

Through this process, students acquire habits of mind that enable them to respond to challenges with resilience and adaptability. Reflection also maximises emotional well-being, enabling students to establish balance with academic success.

8. Culturally Inclusive & Global Learning

Culturally responsive teaching transforms the curriculum to make it relevant to all students by connecting curriculum with their multicultures.

It gives a sense of belongingness and makes the students ready for success in multicultural and globalised life. Global learning goes further by infusing cross-cultural knowledge in daily teaching.

Cultural diversity is the essence of UNIS Hanoi values.

Students take part in storytelling festivals that honour diverse traditions, and learn lessons from diverse viewpoints and languages. Our global student community makes being culture-sensitive not theory but a practice.

By learning from each other’s stories, students become more empathetic, open-minded, and globally competent.

Discover Innovative Teaching and Learning at UNIS Hanoi

Innovative teaching strategies are not abstract theories; they are the methods through which we nurture curiosity, deepen learning, and equip students with essential 21st-century skills.

At UNIS Hanoi, these strategies are brought to daily life, ensuring that learners achieve academically and grow as adaptable, empathetic, and responsible global citizens.

We invite parents to discover how our innovative classroom practices can benefit your children. Connect with us to experience our student-centred learning community and witness the transformative impact of education that values both excellence and inclusion!

The Vietnam education system is a structured, centralised framework from pre-primary through tertiary levels under the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET). Compulsory primary and secondary stages and exam-driven pathways with an emphasis on academic rigour.

We engage with this system at UNIS Hanoi to enable local teachers to work their way through international best practice, building Vietnam’s national education system and its sustainable development.

Overview of the Vietnam Education System: Structure & Context

The Vietnam education system is designed to offer inclusive education chances to equip students well for professional and academic achievement. It’s a centralised and rigorous system, with the MOET playing a crucial role in policy, curriculum, and exam standards.

There are 5 major levels in the system, each serving a distinct developmental purpose and reflecting national priorities:

• Preschool (ages 3–6): Offering optional kindergarten and nursery to develop early social, emotional, and intellectual foundations. Learning programmes encourage children to learn through play and introduce them into formal education gradually.
• Primary Education (ages 6–11): Compulsory five years of Vietnamese language, mathematics, moral education, science, and arts. This stage establishes foundational literacy and numeracy, shaping lifelong learning habits.
• Lower Secondary (ages 12–15): Four mandatory years within a broad subject field, such as foreign languages, history, geography, and technology. Progression is tracked through examination and teacher evaluation.
• Upper Secondary (ages 16–18): Three years with academic or vocational tracks options. The students prepare for university entrance exams or professional certifications. University and career entry are determined by public examinations.
• Higher Education: College, university, and vocational school competitive entrance exams. Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees comprise the basis of Vietnam’s human resources.

Partnering with Vietnam Education System: UNIS Hanoi’s Commitment

UNIS Hanoi is committed to empowering Vietnamese educators through sustained partnerships. Our initiatives, Vietnam Learning Together Conference (VLTC), Early Childhood Education Renovation Programme (ECERP), and SENIA training, create lasting impact by equipping teachers with international best practices.

1. Vietnam Learning Together Conference (VLTC)

The Vietnam Learning Together Conference is an annual professional development event that celebrates collaboration and shared expertise.

In 2025, its seventh edition adopted the theme “Unity in Diversity: Building Global Bridges Through Education.” The event attracted over 600 local and international teachers.

Highlights included a keynote address from UNIS parent Phil Psilos, with over 60 speakers contributing, among them our Grade 12 students, who provided fresh perspectives on modern learning.

The conference encourages learning and innovation in a peer-to-peer environment. A primary teacher demonstrated how 3D-printing can enhance model design, while the others presented a general view on digital collaboration using Zoom, Teams, and Flip.

Sessions also examined artificial intelligence and translation technologies, encouraging teachers to consider both practical applications and ethical concerns in classroom contexts.

What sets VLTC apart is access: participation is free for local teachers, so there are no knowledge-sharing barriers.

Through this initiative, UNIS Hanoi opens up opportunities for professional development that refine practice, build confidence, and facilitate innovation to the broader Hanoi teaching community

2. Early Childhood Education Renovation Programme (ECERP)

For more than 25 years, ECERP has stood as a model of meaningful partnership. Established in 1998 with the Hanoi Department of Education and Training (DoET), the programme supports kindergarten teachers at 25 partner schools. About 30 teachers receive training workshops every six months on strengthening pedagogical practices.

The programme followed systemic changes such as the class size decrease, enhanced teaching support, and child-centred education.

In addition to conventional classrooms, ECERP facilitated the development of lively classrooms in which children learn through experience, questioning, and discovery.

Testimonials highlight ECERP’s transformative role. Deputy Principal Ms Nguyen Thi Le Huyen noted the programme increased the level of enrolment and parental confidence. Teacher Ms Le Phuong Hang indicated enhanced active and independent students.

At UNIS Hanoi, our ECERP Coordinator, Ms Tran Bao Ngoc, ensures that the programme continues to evolve, sustaining its relevance and embedding positive change across Hanoi’s early years landscape.

3. SENIA Foundations Course & Inclusion Training

Beyond Early Years and mainstream education, UNIS Hanoi also champions inclusion.

We are active members of SENIA (Special Education Network and Inclusion Association) and have worked with them closely to translate an 8 module Foundations Course into Vietnamese over a six month period. More of our Teaching Assistants were then able to take this SENIA Foundations Course and following their successful completion, thirteen UNIS Hanoi Teaching Assistants moved on to receive further certification as SENIA Expert Facilitators — who are now qualified as facilitators of the SENIA Foundations Course and are ready to share this learning with educators across Vietnam.

The project represents a meaningful step forward in strengthening inclusive practice at UNIS Hanoi while seeding sustainable, local capacity to support neurodiverse students across the country.

Through localisation, Vietnamese teachers can access international materials in Vietnamese, building long-term capacity and ensuring sustained improvement.

Why UNIS Hanoi Is a Trusted Partner in the Vietnam Education System

UNIS Hanoi’s reputation as a partner to the Vietnam education system is founded on reliability, inclusivity, and extended collaboration. We have worked directly with local institutions for over two decades to provide contribution to teaching quality, assist reform, and drive inclusive practices.

Here is how UNIS Hanoi demonstrate our commitment:

• Deep and Sustained Engagement: Through over 25 years of continuous collaboration through ECERP, UNIS Hanoi has influenced early childhood teaching in Hanoi with a long-lasting legacy of classroom practice and teaching quality.
• Bridge-Building Events: The VLTC has become a national centre of excellence for professional discussion, innovation, and peer-to-peer learning. Private and public school educators meet to share ideas, therefore it is a platform bringing together Vietnam’s diverse education community.
• Inclusive Education Leadership: From SENIA partnerships, UNIS Hanoi is a pioneer in inclusive practice to enable schools to develop structures in which all children have an equal opportunity.
• System-Embedded Impact: Our work is specifically designed to be woven into MOET reform priorities, learner-centered instruction, teacher development, and universal access.
• Accessible, Practical Training: Unlike most other international programmes, which are too expensive for local teachers to afford, UNIS Hanoi training is low-cost or no-cost, further supporting our philosophy of equity in education.
• Commitment to Local Development: Beyond pedagogy, our training shares healthier school communities by building connections, collaboration, and equipping teachers with practical, sustainable tools.

Through these strengths, UNIS Hanoi promotes Vietnam’s sustainable education development towards meeting global challenges and opportunities.

Join Our Partnership for Educational Excellence

The Vietnam education system is robust, and it continues to adapt in response to modern challenges. At UNIS Hanoi, we are proud to partner in this journey. Through programmes such as VLTC, ECERP, and SENIA Foundations Course, we equip local teachers with innovative methodologies, inclusivity, and excellence.

Join our conferences, participate in our programmes, and join with UNIS Hanoi to see for yourself the power of collaboration. By working together, we can elevate Vietnam’s education system, ensuring that it continues to thrive for generations to come.