FAQs | BVIS HCMC-FAQ page block-BVIS_faq_Terheader_1317x439_1

Frequently asked questions

  • Does the school follow the British or Vietnamese curriculum?
    We use the National Curriculum for England as our framework. Some subjects are taught in Vietnamese to ensure our students enjoy the best of both countries’ curricula. Our students graduate with the renowned international A Levels qualification, accredited by the University of Cambridge Examinations Board and accepted by all leading world universities. We have a unique approach that allows us to teach an international curriculum in a fully bilingual environment. This is one of a kind in Vietnam.
  • Will maths be taught in English language?
    Maths is taught to Primary students in Vietnamese, so students build a strong foundational understanding of the subject. In Secondary, they gradually shift to the English language, in preparation for external exams.
  • How will Vietnamese culture and values be preserved?
    We celebrate both languages in school and focus on Vietnamese heritage and culture in the Vietnamese curriculum.  Most of our teaching assistants are Vietnamese. They’re highly proficient in English and able to help students with their Vietnamese studies. We regularly celebrate key traditional Vietnamese events, such as Tet and Moon Festival. 

    We’re a close-knit community that values family. We organise numerous events with this in mind, including our Grandparents Day, parent seminars, and coffee mornings. Our students go on day and residential trips not only abroad but also within Vietnam, learning about the country and experiencing traditional Vietnamese life. They see first-hand what it means to Vietnamese people to respect their elders and practice good manners.
     
  • Will there be any learning support for my child?
    We offer learning support for children with mild learning difficulties. We have an experienced English as an Additional Language (EAL) team, who will help your child with their English language acquisition.
  • Does the school offer extracurricular activities?
    BVIS HCMC has an exciting after-school programme. More than 100 clubs are available to students, including traditional activities like swimming and poetry as well as the more unusual clubs, such as fishing. We listen to our students and their families, so if there’s sufficient interest for something new we endeavour to launch a club to meet it. 
  • How do students graduate?
    We offer University of Cambridge IGCSE (at 16 years old) and International A Level (at 18 years old) examinations. Our students' exam results are consistently outstanding. 
  • Are the qualifications obtained at this school recognised and valued worldwide?
    Yes. University of Cambridge examinations are taken in more than 100 countries and accepted as entry requirements by every top university.
  • Will my child be able to follow the curriculum if we enrol halfway through the year?
    Yes, absolutely. BVIS HCMC provides every student with a personalised learning programme, designed to support them as they prepare for their IGCSE exams at 16. We also provide English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Vietnamese as an Additional Language (VAL) support for students who need it.
  • Will my child who is studying in a Vietnamese school without any English be accepted?
    Their placement will depend on their age, test results, and school reports. Older children are expected to have higher levels of English because of the curriculum we follow. Our excellent English support team can help your child if they experience initial difficulties. We aim for every student to thrive and succeed, no matter their background or experience.
  • How long does the admissions process take?
    The process usually takes no longer than two weeks from the first point of contact.
  • What is the purpose of the security deposit?
    Our admissions process begins in October, when we start recruiting the best international teachers for the following academic year. An early financial investment is made in our teaching staff, so in return we need a commitment from families. Your deposit will offset any outlay made during the recruitment process, in the event that you withdraw your child’s application at short notice. The use of a deposit is a standard practice at premium international schools across the world.
  • How is the day timetabled? Will English be integrated through the school day, or will my child study in English in the morning and Vietnamese in the afternoon, for example?
    Our English and Vietnamese curricula are integrated. The level of English increases as students enter Secondary (reaching 95% English in Key Stage 5) to prepare for their exams, but our younger students are exposed to equal levels of English and Vietnamese.
  • Are the qualifications obtained at BVIS HCMC recognised and valued across the globe?
    Yes. University of Cambridge exams are taken in more than 100 countries, and are universally accepted by all top-ranking universities in the world.