Opening Global Doors: CIS Students Reach Top Universities

At the Canadian International School Singapore (CIS), opening doors to top global universities isn’t just a goal, it’s part of who we are. With a future-focused curriculum, dedicated teachers, and a supportive community, we equip our students to thrive beyond the classroom and stand out. Over the years, CIS graduates have been accepted to more than 500 universities worldwide, including world-renowned institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Stanford.

The CIS success continues with the Class of 2025 gaining acceptances to leading universities including Imperial College London, Columbia University, Cornell University, Berklee College of Music, University College London, The New School Parsons, The University of Hong Kong, and the University of Toronto.

These accomplishments are a testament to our students' hard work and dedication, but also to the strength of CIS’s academic programme and our passionate educators that champion every student’s unique journey. Whether they are pursuing engineering, the arts, or the sciences, CIS students are equipped with the skills, mindset, and resilience to succeed globally.

Hear from the graduating Class of 2025

	“In my 13 years at CIS, I have received immeasurable support in my academic endeavours. With dedicated teachers and excellent learning facilities, I secured a predicted perfect grade of 45.”  — Nathaniel D., accepted into Imperial College London.
	“CIS has taught me the power of initiative and prepared me to boldly embrace challenges with confidence and enthusiasm.”  — Luke G., accepted into St. Andrews and University College London
	“I've met lifelong friends and mentors who have shaped my educational journey. CIS has prepared me to take on the world with an open mind and a fresh perspective.” — Lavanya L., accepted into Cornell University.

Hear from CIS Alumni

	“CIS equipped me with the life skills and confidence to turn my dreams into reality. The diverse and supportive community, some of the most inspiring people I’ve ever met, helped bring me closer to achieving my lifelong goal.—  Cindy T., Stanford University
	“CIS broadened my musical horizons and helped me master the violin, all while giving me the opportunity to explore the piano, viola, guitar, and drums.”  — Haotian W., Royal Academy of Music
	“CIS not only enabled me to pursue my passions but taught me to be open-minded and expansive in my thinking.” — Emilee L., University of Cambridge.

Discover how CIS can set your child on the path to success. Join our upcoming Open House.

CIS. Proud to be Huskies.

Ask the Dentist: Why are dental X-rays necessary?

 

You may have been surprised when your dentist recommends an X-ray during a routine check-up, especially if you only came in for a cleaning. While it might seem unexpected, dental X-rays are essential for spotting hidden issues that can’t be seen during a visual exam. Modern digital X-rays use very low levels of radiation, far less than traditional film-based methods, and are safe even for children and pregnant women.

What do dental X-rays show? Dental X-rays (radiographs) allow dentists to examine areas beneath the gums, between teeth, and within the jawbone.

They can reveal:

• Cavities between teeth

• Signs of gum disease

• Infections or abscesses

• Bone loss in the jaw

• Buried or impacted teeth

• Cysts, tumors or other abnormalities

For children and teens, X-rays also help monitor tooth and jaw development, detecting potential issues like crowding or misalignment early — often before symptoms show up.

Types of dental X-rays: Common X-ray types include:

• Panoramic: Shows the entire mouth in one image.

• Periapical: Focuses on one or two teeth from root to crown.

• Bitewing: Captures upper and lower back teeth, helpful for spotting decay between teeth.

• Cephalometric: Side profile of the head, often used in orthodontic planning.

• Cone Beam CT: Produces 3D images for complex procedures like dental implants or jaw surgery.

How Often Should I Get an X-ray? 

Ultimately, the need for dental X-rays depends on your individual oral health. Your dentist may recommend one during your initial visit or when symptoms like a toothache or swelling occur.

 DrTan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry.  

http://www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

Ask the Dentist: Does your child show signs of tongue-tie?

Our tongue plays a crucial role in daily functions such as swallowing, eating, and speaking. Tongue-tie occurs when the lingual frenulum (a band of tissue beneath the tongue) is too tight or short, limiting its range of motion. If unaddressed, this condition may lead to speech challenges over time, especially with pronouncing certain sounds as a child grows. 

Signs of tongue-tie in babies: 

• difficulty latching during breastfeeding 
• producing a clicking sound while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding 

Signs of tongue-tie in older children: 

• a tongue with a heart-shaped tip when extended 
• difficulty stretching the tongue past the lower front teeth 
• challenges in lifting tongue to touch the upper teeth or moving it side to side 
• trouble with clear speech and pronouncing sounds such as d, l, s, t, and th 

What are the treatment options for tongue-tie? 

If you suspect your newborn is suffering from a possible tongue-tie, it is best to consult a paediatrician for a thorough examination to determine if intervention is necessary. In addition, seeking guidance from a lactation specialist may provide valuable breastfeeding support and advice. 

When tongue-tie surgery is recommended, it is typically treated with a frenectomy — a minor procedure performed by an oral surgeon. This can be done under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. 

The oral surgeon carefully removes the lingual frenum (the soft tissue restricting tongue movement) using a surgical blade, electric knife, or laser during the procedure. The entire process generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes. If your child is experiencing any of the tongue-tie symptoms mentioned above, get a professional diagnosis today. 

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Dr Ho Kok Sen is an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon with Specialist Dental Group®. Dr Ho is a mentor, lecturer, and examiner to students in the Graduate Diploma in Dental Implantology course at the National University of Singapore. Dr Ho is a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons and the Academy of Medicine Singapore. He has a special interest in dental implants, jaw surgery, bone grafting, and complex extractions. www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883 

Academic Success: It all Starts with Play

Play is more than fun—it’s essential for a child’s development. It builds critical thinking, problem-solving, resilience, and social skills that are key to academic success and lifelong learning. Research shows children learn best when actively engaged, yet play is often undervalued in education. At Canadian International School (CIS), we recognise its importance and prioritise meaningful, uninterrupted playtime.

This is why we introduced Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) into our curriculum. OPAL is an award-winning programme that enhances play in schools by providing open-ended materials like tyres, planks, and ropes, sparking curiosity and creativity. Unlike traditional playgrounds, OPAL fosters diverse play experiences:

• Exploratory play— Testing ideas and materials
• Imaginative play— Creating new worlds and narratives
• Social play— Building collaboration and communication skills
• Physical play— Developing motor skills and confidence

A Lasting Impact on Student Success

As a top International Baccalaureate (IB) school, CIS nurtures inquisitive, independent learners. OPAL supports this by giving students ownership of their learning through exploration, questioning, and hands-on experiences—key elements of the IB inquiry-based model.

Andrew Marshall, primary principal at CIS, shares that since implementing OPAL, the school has seen remarkable improvements in student engagement, behaviour, and well-being. Play has become a powerful tool for fostering inclusivity, leadership, and confidence. Teachers report fewer behavioral incidents, while students return to class more focused, particularly in creative subjects. Parents also notice their children applying problem-solving and social strategies beyond school.

“As we continue to refine OPAL with student input, we remain committed to fostering a love for learning through the power of play—building confident, capable learners prepared for the future,” he adds.

Join us at the CIS STEAM Fair on Saturday, 8 March.

Interested to find out more about how CIS inspires a lifelong love of learning in our students? Come to the CIS STEAM Fair on 8 March, 11 am to 3 pm! It’s the perfect chance to explore our campus, try hands-on activities, and discover how learning can be exciting and full of wonder. Register here and join us for a day of fun, curiosity, and creativity for all ages!