Introduction to our Academic Director
We caught up with Academic Director, Mr Edmund Ng, who leads the development of the academic curriculum at Westbourne College (Singapore), heading up the coordination of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for our teachers and students.
1. What brought you to Westbourne?
I am deeply committed to excellence in STEM, having taught Mathematics for the past 20 years. Without doubt, the ethos of Westbourne attracted me to
Westbourne College (Singapore). The drive towards excellence and the closely knitted community of teachers and students resonate strongly with me. Though I was trained as an engineer during my varsity days, an overseas volunteering trip to Laos in 2001 led me to uncover my interest in interacting with and educating young people.
Not only I am able to share with the students here my experience and knowledge, I am also able to learn from them through their experience, which is hugely rewarding.
2. Tell us more about the IB Diploma
The
IBDP curriculum offers a holistic approach for students, with emphasis on the process of learning. Students are taught to be critical and reflective in what they learn. Learning is no longer restricted to be just on paper and pen or in the boundaries of the classroom. The world is fully open to explore and discover.
3. What makes students successful?
I believe students need to be self driven in order for them to be successful, and ask as many questions as they can, about as many different topics as they can. Be unafraid to ask questions!
I encourage students to ask questions in class constantly and it is through conversation that both teachers and students are able to know what they know and do not know.
4. What does the future hold for Westbourne College (Singapore)?
To be a part of a school at the start of a very exciting journey is remarkable. Our global links, which provide learning and networking opportunities for our students, are unmatched. With a global network like this, facilitating new conversations, approaches and ways of thinking, the sky’s the limit!
5. Sum up our college in 3 words
Excellence. Driven. Tomorrow.