Teaching Wisdom in a Digital Age

Teaching Wisdom in a Digital Age

How Grace Approaches Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is becoming a natural part of the world our students are growing into. From the tools we use at work to the way information is shared and created, AI is no longer something for the future—it is already here. At Grace, we believe it is important to face this reality thoughtfully and with wisdom.

Like all technology, AI is neither good nor bad on its own. It is a tool. What matters most is how it is used and why it is used. Our role as educators is not to fear new tools or to use them without care, but to guide students in learning how to use them wisely, ethically, and purposefully. AI should support learning, not replace it.

In our classrooms, teachers may use AI to help with lesson planning, differentiation, and feedback. These tools can help teachers respond more effectively to the diverse needs of students, offering alternative explanations, extra practice, or new approaches to a topic. When used well, AI can free teachers to focus more on what matters most: relationships, thoughtful discussion, and meaningful learning experiences.

For students, learning to use AI well is part of learning how to learn. We encourage students to see AI as a support for curiosity and thinking, not a shortcut. AI can help students organise ideas, ask better questions, and explore different perspectives. However, it should never replace effort, reflection, or personal responsibility. True learning still involves challenge, perseverance, and growth.

We believe that productive struggle is an important part of education. When students wrestle with ideas, make mistakes, and try again, they develop resilience, discipline, and confidence. These habits cannot be automated. AI may assist the process, but it cannot do the learning for them.

Used thoughtfully, AI can be a powerful tool for creativity, problem-solving, and lifelong learning. At Grace, our aim is to equip students not just to use new technologies, but to use them with integrity and wisdom. We want our students to grow into people who make careful choices, serve others well, and use their skills for good.

Ultimately, technology should help students grow, not replace what makes them human. We believe each child is created with the ability to think, create, and learn. Our task is to nurture those God-given gifts and to teach students how to use every tool—old or new—in ways that honour learning, community, and purpose.

Back to School at Grace International School – Where Every Child Can Thrive

Back to School at Grace International School – Where Every Child Can Thrive

As the new school year begins, many families are thinking about what truly matters when choosing a school. At Grace International School, every child, regardless of background, ability, or passport, deserves the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

A Place for Every Learner

Grace proudly welcomes all students, including:

  • Bangladeshi passport holders
  • Foreign passport holders
  • High-achieving learners
  • Students with special needs and disabilities

More Than Just Academics

Our students are known not only for excellent exam results but also for who they are becoming. At Grace, we focus on developing the whole child—head, heart, and body—through:

  • Strong academics
  • Character formation
  • Community building

We are proud to offer a wide range of after-school and extracurricular activities, including art, drama, music, sports, technology classes, and more. These programs provide students with valuable opportunities to discover passions, build confidence, and grow in their unique strengths.

Teaching That Meets Every Student Where They Are

Not every child learns the same way, and that’s okay.

Our certified educators understand that while some students grasp material quickly, others require more time and support. That’s why we use differentiation—a teaching approach where lessons are adapted to meet individual needs. Differentiated instruction means:

  • Adjusting tasks for different ability levels
  • Offering multiple ways to engage with content
  • Providing various forms of assessment so all students can show their understanding

Through differentiation, every student is challenged and supported, ensuring meaningful progression for all.

An International Standard in Dhaka

Grace International School follows an authentic British curriculum, preparing students for life at top universities around the world. We are proud to be recognised as one of the top three international schools in Dhaka.

Our school year runs from 10 August to June, and it’s not too late to join. If you’re looking for a school that prioritises excellence, inclusion, character, and joy in learning, Grace is the right choice.

A Look Back on the 2024–2025 School Year

A Look Back on the 2024–2025 School Year

As the 2024–25 school year comes to a close, we look back on the journey of the past ten months with joy and thankfulness.

Even though there were some political challenges in Bangladesh over the summer, we only delayed the start of school by one week. To make sure we met the required 180 school days, we made the school day a little longer at GPS and used a few government holidays as regular school days. We were so happy that all our teachers returned on time, ready and excited to teach.

At the start of the year, all the teachers and staff took part in INSET—In-Service Education and Training. During this time, new staff had orientation and training, while returning teachers planned lessons, worked together, and got ready for the year ahead. This was also a time to build community, make new friends, and reconnect with old ones.

At GEY, our youngest students began school, many for the very first time. It was a big step, and often harder for the parents than the children! To help make the first day easier, we invited parents to come to school with their children. This helped everyone feel safe, calm, and ready to begin.

Our oldest students jumped into the year with excitement and leadership. During the first week, they applied to join the Student Council. They campaigned during the second week, and by the third week, it was time to vote. It was a fun and active start to the year!

Primary students quickly settled into class and picked their after-school clubs. This year, Board Games, Drawing, Technology, and Chess were the most popular.

Our Grace Royals sports teams didn’t waste any time, either! They entered the AISD and ISD tournaments and had their best season ever, winning the championship in both football and volleyball.

September and October were full of fun and meaningful activities: Bangladesh Emphasis Week, Thrive Week, Spirit Week, International Week, Mock Interviews, and Work Experience. These special weeks helped students grow, learn, and explore the world outside the classroom.

For Mock Interviews, local business leaders came to Grace to interview our students. KS4 and KS5 students wrote their CVs and learned how to present themselves in a professional setting. Afterwards, they went out into the real world for ‘Work Experience.’ Students spent time in places like hospitals, banks, bookshops, garment factories, and cafés to learn what real jobs are like.

Throughout the year, our House Teams had fun and friendly competitions. Students from different year groups joined together to earn points through trivia, sports events, and good behaviour in class. These teams helped build friendships across ages and made school life even more fun. Older students looked after younger ones, and everyone cheered each other on.

By December, the Christmas season was in full swing. At GEY and GPS, students shared the Nativity story in creative and new ways. At GSS, we started a new tradition! The Humanities team brought all the students together to put on a theatre production. This year’s play was The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. The acting, costumes, and sets were all done by the students, and everyone had a role, even if they weren’t on stage. They helped with props, music, makeup, and much more. The two performances were truly magical.

After the winter break, KS4 students returned to school focused and determined. Art students worked on their portfolios, and all students began their mock exams. KS5 students had their mock exams in March. These tests helped them practise for the real thing and showed them where they were doing well and what they needed to work on.

Spring was filled with more special days like Book Week, Mother Language Day, another Thrive Week, cookie baking days, graduation, and Splash Day. These events made learning fun and brought our community closer together.

Now, as May comes to a close, we teachers look back with pride, love, and amazement. In August, many students walked into school feeling nervous, unsure of what the year would hold. Now, they leave full of confidence, knowledge, and new friendships. Teachers, who once were strangers, became mentors, guides, and trusted supporters.

We all look forward to the summer break, but we also know how special it is to return to Grace each August. Working in a school is unique. Every year looks the same on paper, but every year is truly different. Your children are what make each class and each year so special.

Thank you for being part of this wonderful journey. We look forward to seeing you again in August!

Splash Day Fun at Grace Secondary School!

Splash Day Fun at Grace Secondary School!

This week, the whole secondary school had one of the best days of the year – Splash Day!

We started with a very funny relay game. Each team had a frisbee full of water. The students had to pass it over their heads to the next person in line, all the way to the last one. That person had to pour whatever water was left into a bucket. The team with the most water in their bucket won! It was harder than it looked—and very splashy!

Then came the main event—the water fight! Everyone grabbed water balloons, water pistols, and buckets. There was even a paddling pool and a hose! It didn’t matter if you were fast or slow—you were going to get soaked. Teachers and students ran around laughing, chasing each other, and having the best time.

“It was so much fun splashing each other! My PE teacher even borrowed my water pistol and sprayed someone!”

One teacher said, “Watching students and teachers laugh like best friends was the best moment.” Another teacher even slipped during a game, but they laughed and kept playing. That’s the kind of fun we had. The whole event lasted about an hour, but we will remember it for a long time!

“The best part was at the end when it turned into a free-for-all. Everyone got wet!”

Why Splash Day Is Special

At Grace Secondary School, school should be fun, not just about books and tests. When we play together, we grow closer as a school. Splash Day helps students and teachers feel like a big team.

“Getting soaked together builds serious trust.”

Having fun together helps us feel happy and safe. When students enjoy being at school, it’s easier to learn, make friends, and do their best. Fun helps us grow!

Our Teachers Are Amazing

All of our teachers are trained and certified. That means they know a lot about how to teach. But they also know how to have fun! On Splash Day, they didn’t just watch—they joined in. They got wet, laughed, and played just like the students.

Our teachers understand that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom. It happens when we build friendships, show kindness, and enjoy being part of a team. They help students learn and enjoy school at the same time.

Looking Ahead

If you’re new to GSS or thinking of joining, Jared* said, “Bring your water gear and get ready for the best day ever!”

Splash Day may only last an hour, but it shows what our school is all about—community, friendship, and fun. At Grace Secondary School, we believe school should be a place where we work hard, grow together, and smile a lot.

We’re already excited for next year’s Splash Day. Just remember—no one stays dry!

*Name was changed to protect student privacy.

Celebrating Book Week at Grace: A Love for Stories and Reading

Celebrating Book Week at Grace: A Love for Stories and Reading

Book Week at Grace is a special time dedicated to celebrating stories, imagination, and the joy of reading. Last week, both Grace Early Years (GEY) and Grace Secondary School (GSS) embraced the spirit of literature through a variety of engaging activities that highlighted the importance of storytelling and literacy.

Grace Early Years (GEY) Book Week Activities

Our youngest readers at GEY experienced a week full of meaningful literary activities. Parent reading sessions allowed mums and dads to share their favourite stories, strengthening the connection between home and school. The joy of storytelling was further highlighted when the “big kids” from GSS visited to read to the “little kids,” fostering mentorship skills and community.

Dressing up added to the fun, with Pajama Day turning classrooms into cosy reading havens. Students arrived in their pyjamas, bringing along their favourite books, pillows, and blankets. On Dress as Your Favourite Book Character Day, children excitedly embodied beloved fictional figures, from adventurous explorers to magical creatures. The week also featured an engaging puppet show, where characters from favourite tales were brought to life through vibrant performances.

Grace Secondary School (GSS) Book Week Activities

Meanwhile, at GSS, students took a deeper dive into literature. One of the most anticipated events was the Shakespearean Insult Contest, which introduced students to the wit and wordplay of the Bard. Shakespeare’s plays are filled with inventive insults, such as “thou art a boil, a plague-sore, an embossed carbuncle in my corrupted blood” (King Lear) and “Away, you three-inch fool!” (The Taming of the Shrew). Students creatively crafted their own Shakespearean insults, bringing laughter and learning together.

Jennings Hall transformed into a Book Fair, courtesy of Book Worm, providing students with the opportunity to explore and purchase new books to expand their personal libraries. The Book of the Bible Cup Sorting Activity encouraged reflection on biblical texts in an interactive way, while a Book Week Fun Quiz tested students’ literary knowledge. The week ended with a Book Character Dress Up Day, where creativity flourished as students brought their favourite stories to life through costumes.

The Impact of Book Week

Book Week at Grace is more than just a celebration—it is a reminder of the lasting benefits of reading and storytelling. Research consistently shows the powerful impact of early and consistent exposure to literature:

  • Cognitive Development: Studies indicate that children who are regularly read to have a 1.4 million-word advantage in vocabulary exposure by the time they reach kindergarten (Ohio State University, 2019).
  • Academic Success: Reading for pleasure is the single most important factor in a child’s future academic achievement, more so than their family’s socio-economic status (OECD, 2002).
  • Emotional and Social Benefits: Engaging with stories builds empathy and emotional intelligence. A 2020 study found that reading fiction enhances a person’s ability to understand and relate to others’ emotions.
  • Long-Term Career Benefits: Strong reading and literacy skills correlate with higher levels of employment and income, as seen in numerous labour market studies.

Looking Ahead: GPS Book Week

The excitement for books continues as GPS Book Week begins on 16 March. We look forward to another fantastic celebration of reading and storytelling!

A Thank You to Our Supporters

A heartfelt thank you to the parents, teachers, and students who made Book Week 2025 a success. Your enthusiasm and dedication help cultivate a lifelong love of reading among our students. Let’s continue to embrace the magic of literature throughout the year!