Vietnam's First Authentic British Boarding School Opens in Lao Cai

Nestled within the rolling hills of Lao Cai province in northern Vietnam, Ardingly College Vietnam (ACVN) has opened its doors as the nation's first authentic British boarding school. The institution is dedicated to providing an educational environment that nurtures not only students from within Vietnam but also from across the globe, fostering not just academic prowess but also character and independence. A visit by Saigoneer last month shed light on the school's unique educational philosophy and practices. Unlike the often-congested and chaotic commutes common in Vietnam's urban centers, ACVN boasts a serene setting amidst lush greenery and majestic mountains. This natural environment enhances the school's emphasis on "outdoor experiential learning." The campus features extensive sports facilities, leveraging its large plot size, alongside state-of-the-art science laboratories, libraries, and art rooms, rivaling those found in urban international schools. Headmaster Craig Lewis articulates the school's mission as fostering students who possess "respect, resilience, compassion, are service-oriented, and are globally aware." Beyond academics, facilities like a makerspace, music room, auditorium, and sports fields contribute to the holistic development of students. The "House System," a cornerstone of British boarding schools, is central to ACVN's approach. Through healthy competition, students learn teamwork, leadership, and the crucial lesson of "losing with integrity." This aims to cultivate the ability to overcome challenges constructively and collaborate effectively, rather than solely focusing on winning. Boarding is available for students aged 12 and above, with options for weekly boarding or returning home on weekends. These arrangements are all underpinned by safety, support, and tailored academic tutoring. Boarding students develop independence through managing daily tasks such as laundry and room tidiness. Lewis highlights that boarding life "creates opportunities for students to support each other, share passions, and engage in new activities they might not have considered before." The daily schedule is carefully balanced, commencing with an early wake-up and encompassing classes, extracurricular activities, study hall, and relaxation time. The diverse and dedicated international staff provide personalized guidance not only in academics but also in extracurricular pursuits and on weekends. With staff residing on campus, pastoral care is significantly enhanced, offering support beyond regular school hours. To address parental concerns, the school prioritizes clear communication through scheduled calls and regular updates, ensuring families remain connected and informed about the benefits and logistics of the boarding system. Information Source: Saigoneer