US's Fairmont Schools to Open First Campus in Vietnam, Expanding International Education Options

Fairmont Schools, a renowned private school system from the United States, is set to open its first campus in Vietnam, Fairmont International School Vietnam (FISV), beginning its admissions for the 2026-2027 academic year. This marks the system's initial expansion into Southeast Asia. FISV is built upon the educational foundation of Fairmont Schools, established in California, USA, in 1953, with over 70 years of operation. The school is also a member of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), a network comprising over 120 schools in 25 countries. School representatives cited the continuously growing demand for access to international education in Vietnam in recent years as the reason for choosing Vietnam as its first destination in Southeast Asia. The expansion aims not only to provide international curricula but also to foster a multicultural learning environment and connect students with a global educational network. Allen McInnis, Headmaster of FISV, stated that the school's launch signifies a new beginning for Fairmont in Southeast Asia and will add to the international education options for families in Hanoi and the northern region. "We aim to connect Fairmont's over 70-year educational foundation with a multicultural learning community where each student is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to be ready for the future," McInnis shared. Starting from the 2026-2027 academic year, FISV will admit students from primary to high school levels, offering programs designed to meet diverse learning needs and academic pathways. These programs will integrate Vietnam's national education foundation with US educational standards, emphasizing English proficiency, academic thinking, and essential future skills. A bilingual program will also be available, combining the curriculum of the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training with subjects taught in English for students from grades 1 to 9. Through flexible learning routes, students will be facilitated to choose paths that suit their abilities, interests, and personal goals, while also preparing a foundation for further studies in Vietnam or abroad. As a member school within the Fairmont system, FISV will connect students in Vietnam with the Fairmont community in the US through exchange activities, collaborations, and academic experiences. Furthermore, being a member of the International Schools Partnership will provide students with opportunities to participate in learning projects, collaborative programs, and exchanges with students from over 120 schools within the ISP network globally. School representatives indicated that this model aims to create a multicultural learning environment, while also helping students develop intercultural communication skills, global thinking, and adaptability in an international setting. In addition to academic programs, FISV will develop activities in arts, sports, technology, STEAM, and practical experiences. The school aims to build a student-centered learning environment, encouraging each student to leverage their individual strengths while cultivating collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Fairmont Schools, founded in 1953, currently operates six educational facilities from kindergarten to high school, serving both American and international students. Its schools are accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and Cognia, and are members of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). Since 2023, Fairmont Schools has joined the ISP - a network of over 120 schools in 25 countries. Based on Niche's educational assessments, many Fairmont campuses receive positive evaluations for academic quality, class size, and college preparedness.