Get to Know Dr Gregory Brunton: IGBIS New Head of School
August 1, 2023
91³Ô¹ÏÍø Newsletter, Issue 345.
August 18, 2023
Message from the Head of the School
By Dr Gregory Brunton
Dear IGBIS Community,
I hope all is well with you and your family. Since arriving in Malaysia in early July, my family and I have been welcomed into our new home and the IGBIS community. I am genuinely grateful for the assistance and support many of you generously offered during this transition period. The recent orientation day provided a wonderful opportunity for me to connect with numerous new and returning families. Meeting you all reinforced my enthusiasm for the journey that lies ahead. My wife, Ruya, daughter, Anlan, and I are deeply excited to be a part of this vibrant community.
I always love walking around the school, even if I become disoriented a few times, as the walks have allowed me to witness firsthand the dedication with which the preparations for the upcoming year were underway. Seeing the excitement and collective energy invested in making the school year a success was inspiring.
On Thursday, we had a fantastic first day! We were thrilled to see excited students eager to come to school, meet with friends, and get started with their classes. This first day was particularly significant as it marked IGBIS's tenth year-beginning our tenth year of growth, development, memories, and learning in our community. This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our teachers, staff, parents, students, and alums, who have all played pivotal roles in shaping the school's legacy.
Please join us for the first on campus on Wednesday, 16 August 2023, from 8:10 to 9:30 am. During this session, I will share a little more about myself, my responsibilities as the new Head of School, my vision for IGBIS, and how we can collaborate as a community. Additionally, there will be an opportunity to meet other parents and form new friendships.
For now, all of us at IGBIS hope you can enjoy some enjoyable time with your families and friends over the weekend, hearing your children talk about their first couple of days of school.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.
Take care,
Dr Gregory Brunton
From the Elementary Principal
By Simon Millward
Welcome and welcome back Elementary School families. I hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable holiday and safe travels to Malaysia.
Teachers have been back in school for the last two weeks preparing for the new academic year, and it always adds a layer of excitement when students are in the building. Our orientation morning on 08 August 2023, and our first day of school on Thursday, 10 August 2023, were highlights of my week.
This academic year's first day of school is particularly special as it marked not only the school's 10th first day of the year but mine also. I am particularly proud that I am, amongst a few other teachers, a founding 91³Ô¹ÏÍø member. I am very much looking forward to the year ahead and seeing our students grow and develop as learners and human beings!
Our first community event is happening on 16 August 2023, a coffee morning to build community and connections and then on 23 August 2023, our annual back-to-school (meet the teacher) afternoon. More details will be sent out about the format of this afternoon’s event.
I look forward to seeing you all on Wednesday, 16 August 2023.
Dates for your diaries:
- Wednesday, 16 August 2023: Coffee morning
- Wednesday, 23 August 2023: ES Back to School Afternoon
- Thursday, 31 August 2023: National Day holiday
Welcome from The Counselling Team
The Counselling Team are excited to be back together, doing what we do for another year. Mr John (ES), Ms Leanne (Middle School) and Ms Amanda (High School) work as a team to support the entire IGBIS community to navigate the path that is life. On a single day, there are students who are experiencing nervousness, reservation and even anxiety about academics, planning for life after graduation, school attendance, friendships, relationships with parents and teachers, family dynamics, family and personal health challenges and in some cases grief as well. This is just a very short list of the many scenarios where ‘we are there for you’. (see the photo).
As well as supporting community members with challenges, we are also here to help people grow in confidence to share and celebrate their amazing achievements and successes. A big part of our job is teaching self-advocacy in its many forms.Ìý Please continue to read the newsletter each week, where we will outline in more detail how we can be of assistance and will advertise our parent coffee/chat mornings.
91³Ô¹ÏÍø Parents Coffee Morning 2023
You are invited to a Coffee Morning on 16 August 2023 at 8:10 am at Drama Room Level 3. Let us reconnect, support one another, and explore volunteering opportunities, from parent class representatives to special events committees.
The highlight of the morning will be the chance to meet and welcome our new Head of School, Dr Gregory and to explore volunteering opportunities, this event is the perfect platform to learn about the various roles available. Your active presence will make this event memorable and set the tone for a fantastic academic year ahead.
Please . We look forward to sharing a delightful morning with you!
91³Ô¹ÏÍø Open Day
What is the significance of IB Approaches to Learning skills for students?
These skills empower students to develop their critical thinking, effective communication, research proficiency, self-management abilities, and strong social skills.
To know more, join our OPEN DAY on:
26 August 2023, Saturday from 10.00 am to 12.30 pmÌý
Meet our leadership team and engage in a talk about how the IB Approaches to Learning skills, together with the IB education approach, could support lifelong learning and prepare students for their university journey and beyond. There will also be a school tour for you to explore our state-of-the-art facilities and a counselling session for your better understanding of the school.Ìý
All attendees receive a *waiver worth up to RM26,000 upon enrolment to IGBIS.Ìý
*T&Cs apply
Register now at: /admissions/openday/
Future Planning Weekly Update
By Amanda Lopez
Welcome to the new school year, and our first edition of our Future Planning Weekly Update for the 2023-2024 school year. The purpose of this Weekly Update is to provide important information and resources for all things future planning. I hope you find this resource helpful and useful.Ìý
Highlights of the Week
Welcome to a New School Year!
Below are links to the welcome communication sent out to students and parents in each grade level. The purpose of each communication is to give you some basic information regarding the counselling office, the work I do as a counsellor, provide an overview of what's to come and share resources to help you now.
Create Your Own College Rankings
op-ed in The New York Times allows the user to create their own college rankings and list from criteria that are personally relevant. While it is limited to US colleges/universities, the exercise of selecting criteria that are important to you is beneficial on its own. Give it a whirl.Ìý
And speaking of Rankings…
As we enter the height of application season, it is important to understand ranking methodologies to better understand how rankings lists can actually help you. Below is a list of popular, well-known university ranking systems. Under each link is an additional link which breaks down how that specific ranking system works and how rankings are calculated.Ìý
It is of the utmost importance that students and parents understand what aspects of the university experience are being measured in order to produce a rankings list. It is also highly encouraged that students and parents look at course/major-specific rankings, as well as specific categories such as liberal arts institutions, sustainability, happiness, small universities, for example.
- Times Higher Education -
Methodology - Ìý - QS World University Rankings -Ìý
Methodology - - Times Higher Education Impact Rankings (UN SDGs) -
Methodology - - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023: Art & Design -
Methodology - - Shanghai Ranking -
Methodology - - US News & World Report -
Methodology - Ìý
Save the Dates - IGBIS University Fairs
All university fairs will begin at 9:30 am and will typically last until 10:00 +. Fairs will be held in the MYP and DP/CP Lounges unless otherwise noted. Parents are welcome to attend. More info will come out soon.
- 18 September 2023
- 20 September 2023
- 03 October 2023
- 05 October 2023
Invitation to MABECS Beyond Boundaries: Education and Clearing Fair 2023
We are excited to extend an invitation to your students and parents for MABECS Beyond Boundaries: Education and Clearing Fair 2023.
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, 17 August 2023
- Time: 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Venue: The Space, Level 2, Menara KEN TTDI
- Registration link:Ìý
Here is why students and parents should attend:
- Meet more than 30 university representatives
- Get detailed information on scholarships, the admission process, and course options
- Attend engaging talks and presentations on studying abroad
This fair is also perfect for students interested in the 2023 entry and in unique situations, such as not applying via UCAS, waiting for an offer, or wanting to explore options beyond their current choices.
Our sister company, will also be present, offering insights into studying in countries like Australia, Canada, USA, Ireland, and Switzerland. Your students can expand their horizons and explore amazing opportunities beyond the UK!
Admission is FREE!Ìý
Worth a Read
Info, Opportunities, & Resources
UCAS Personal Statement Support
UK Conservatoires open their doors for 2024
From 12 July 2023, students with a passion for performing arts can make their application to conservatoires for courses starting in 2024. – each has its own strengths and specialisms, so it is important students do their research to find the right fit for them.Ìý
Bocconi Early Session 2024/25: Applications Now Open
The Early Session to apply for a.y. 2024/25 is now open! Students interested in getting a spot at Bocconi, can complete their application now and send it by 22 September 2023 (3.00 pm Italian Time).
Additionally, the Admissions Office has recorded a few video pills covering the crucial things students need to know to apply. Access the video tips .Ìý
Hong Kong Considers Increase in Mainland and Foreign StudentsÌý
Understanding the US Supreme Court’s Overturning of Affirmative Action
Over the summer, the US Supreme Court ended affirmative action making it unlawful for colleges and universities to take race into consideration as a specific factor in admissions. You can read a simplistic explanation .ÌýÌý
In light of this ruling, many colleges and universities have released statements addressing the ruling and how their admissions practices will adjust. Here is a where Natalee Deaette (Access Opportunity) and Erika Coplon (College Essay Guy) have been compiling the statements released by colleges, including and more.Ìý
Additionally, Penn Admissions and Heights Philadelphia acknowledged that, in light of the SCOTUS decision, this may be an especially confusing year for students applying to college, so they are offering a free online course called .
From the College Essay Guy
- How to Stand Out on Your College Essays This Fall
Free webinar: Wednesday, 16 August 2023, 4:00 - 5:00 pm PT (7:00 - 8:00 pm ET) - Applying to Highly Selective Colleges & Universities
With Tom Campbell (former Pomona College Admissions Officer)
When: 16 August - 30 August 2023 (or watch On Demand) - How to Write a Personal Statement
05 September - 03 October 2023 (or Watch OnDemand) - How to Write the College Application & Supplemental Essays
06 September - 04 October 2023 (or Watch OnDemand)
From the Sunny Jain Newsletter
Embarrassing Personal Statement Mistakes
One of the most common, but subtle mistakes students make...
Here’s a thing everyone forgets to think about when writing a Personal Statement or US College Essay: tone. Students tend to be so focused on ensuring the content they write is good that they fail to write in a way that is persuasive and leaves a positive impression. Here are some don'ts for writing a personal statement.
Do not make it casual.
I know this one seems obvious, but you would be surprised at the amount of people who write like they are talking to a friend. The obvious things, such as not using contractions (e.g. Isn’t), or any sort of slang are not where the main issue lies here. The main issue lies with the general construction of sentences. For example:
“Knowing me, I will be able to meet the challenge that this course offers, especially since I balance my time doing activities such as fencing and debate society.â€
This is a very casual writing style. To convey the same sentence in a way that is more formal, I would recommend the following:
“Course X is known for its challenging nature, but I believe it is a challenge I can meet, as evidenced by my ability to do activities such as fencing and debate society weekly whilst maintaining high grades.â€
The best way to guard against writing too casually is by having other people read through the statement and asking them to specifically check to see how professional the statement sounds.
Do not hedge.
This is a tricky one. Students must walk a fine line between showing the admissions officers that they are confident, without it coming across as cocky. The result of this is that students tend to end up hedging, which is when they make an assertion about themselves or an idea but then weaken it, so they do not come across as arrogant. So, for instance, instead of saying:
“Given my skills, experiences and knowledge of the subject area, I believe I am a good candidate for the courseâ€
They instead say:
“Given my skills, experiences and the knowledge of the subject area, I would probably be a good candidate for the course.â€
This makes the statement weaker and shows a level of doubt in the student’s mind of their own abilities. Make sure to check for hedging in your child's statement.
Do not have thesaurus mouth.
This one is quite common. A lot of students think the key to success for statements is to use big words. This could not be further from the truth. Admissions officers have read thousands of statements, they know when someone is inserting big words for the sake of it. It makes the student look pretentious and actually shows a poor command over language. This is not to say that students should remove sophisticated words from their statement, but they should not actively seek to put them in.
Careers Corner
Popular Resources and FAQs
Questions, Support, and Help
Amanda Lopez ~ Grades 9 - 12 Universities Counselling & Social/Personal Counselling
To schedule an appointment
- Parents - Ìý
- Students -
- Email - amanda.lopez@igbis.edu.my
