Excellence in education – schools

Winner: TASIS England

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This article is taken from the 2024 Awards supplement in the Summer 2024 issue of Think Global People magazine

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TASIS England works tirelessly to ensure a smooth and supported start for its relocating families.

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The value of a happy, supported students has never been higher as educators grapple with the pandemic’s far-reaching effects on young people. For international assignees and families on the move, finding the right school is a top priority.

TASIS England, established in 1976, is a co-educational, independent school educating over 600 day and boarding students. The school places the wellbeing of its students during the relocation process at the very heart of its community and offers genuine guidance and support to its families.

Family support for transitions

“Our approach is grounded in practicality, empathy, and a dedication to ensuring that every family's transition is as supported as possible,” says the school’s entry. “We don’t just espouse support for relocating families; we embody it through actionable initiatives and unwavering dedication.”

The school’s location provides a calm, peaceful environment in which to learn. Based in the pretty village of Thorpe, Surrey, the campus combines historic buildings with modern facilities and sits on 46 acres of beautiful grounds with extensive facilities. The journey to Heathrow takes just 25 minutes and it’s a speedy 45 minutes into central London. Facilities include an innovation centre, an art and music complex, a 350-seat theatre and extensive sports facilities.

The school understands the unique needs of relocating families. Students follow individual pathways for learning including the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), Advanced Placement (AP), and a broad-based American curriculum. TASIS recognises that for many of its students English is  a second language and provides comprehensive support in English as an Additional Language (EAL).

All students receive individual academic advice and senior years get comprehensive university counselling in the last four years of school. TASIS places an emphasis on well-rounded students and has a comprehensive programme of arts, athletics and service leadership.

Going above and beyond

“Our commitment to supporting families through the process of relocation is a fundamental principle ingrained in every facet of our institution,” says the school’s entry statement.

TASIS works hard to deliver a meticulously-crafted admissions process long before students set foot on campus and prioritises personal connections: New families are paired with a “buddy family” who serve as invaluable sources of information.

Once families arrive, the school’s support network swings into action. “Our faculty and counsellors offer expert guidance to students adjusting to a new environment. Simultaneously, our Parent Association and Information Committee extend a welcoming embrace to parents, providing orientation workshops and seminars.”

There are also comprehensive resources online, including website recordings on relocating with ease and an expat starter guide to life in England. In addition, links to the TASIS resource committee guides and the school’s parents’ association provide further help. Multilingual information sheets ensure accessibility and inclusivity.

Relocate’s judges were impressed by the school’s commitment to go above and beyond to help its students assimilate: “Relocation and mobility permeate all aspects of the school. TASIS is to be congratulated for its coordinated range of onboarding support which remains focused on the human experience for each family, recognising the diversity of need and tailoring support accordingly.”

“It’s an honour to receive this on behalf of our parents and staff who make relocation at TASIS so seamless, says Bryan Nixon, head of school. “We are with our families every step of the way.”

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See the Winners Announced Page

The award was collected by Bryan Nixon, head of school and Mary Biddlecombe, executive director of development and external relations, TASIS England.

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Visit the TASIS England website

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