Mark has a BA in Sociology and Labour Studies from York University, a PGCE from Sunderland University, and an MEd in Curriculum Studies and Teacher Development from the University of Toronto. More recently, he received his Certificate in School Management and Leadership from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education.
Mark has over 20 years of experience in education, several of which have been in leadership positions in international schools in South East Asia and China. Through his roles as an educator and school leader, he has deep knowledge of developing and implementing curricula ranging from the IB PYP and IB DP to the National Curriculum of England, the Cambridge IGCSE and and the Shanghai Formed Curriculum.
Mark believes that the way forward in education is to ensure that the learning approach is student-centred, engaging and experiential, including the use of technology. As a leader, he envisions a collaborative process for the entire staff, which empowers everyone to co-create a learning ethos where students can thrive and attain their true potential.
Preschools and kindergartens are intended to help young children learn and grow intellectually, socially, physically and emotionally. But did you know that for young children, playing is learning? A child-focussed play-based preschool in Singapore, like our Early Years Programme at OWIS Suntec, can help your little one to learn through play independently and also in groups, both of which will have significant benefits.
One important distinction between play-based learning and programmes that emphasise traditional academics is: Who directs the learning? In academically orientated programmes, teachers provide information to children. In contrast, in inquiry-led, play-based programmes, the child initiates their learning using their natural curiosity and initiative in an environment that experienced teachers design.
At our new Suntec campus, our Early Childhood curriculum is designed around play-based learning, giving young children many opportunities to grow holistically in a natural manner. Here are some of the benefits of this approach.
Because play-based learning is so crucial for the development of young children, OWIS Suntec has created the optimal environment for play-based education for our preschool grades in Singapore. In addition to discovery zones that have toys, building blocks and other manipulatives that support each child's interests, OWIS Suntec has also developed play-based activities that are integrated into subjects like Maths, English and Mandarin. Our youngest learners can also safely play active games, such as hopscotch, outdoors in the Sky Garden at OWIS Suntec, under the supervision of our experienced teachers.
Learn how your 3 to 6 year old child will benefit from early childhood education at OWIS Suntec through our virtual open house. We look forward to seeing you there!
Visit us from the comfort of your home and find out everything you need to know to make a well-informed decision about your child’s education.