Chatsworth International School Celebrates 30 Years of Inspiring Education and Community in Singapore
Chatsworth International School proudly marks its 30th anniversary, celebrating three decades of excellence, innovation, and community building. From its humble beginnings in 1995 with just six students, the institution has flourished into one of Singapore’s leading International Baccalaureate (IB) schools, known for its diverse and welcoming ethos.
Established by its Founding Principal Jennifer Gay, the international school was led by a vision to create a welcoming and supportive educational environment where students of all abilities and backgrounds could thrive. Reflecting on the journey, Gay shared, “Chatsworth is the embodiment of all that international schools can and should offer as it embraces change and development to stay at the forefront of education. Its commitment to ensure that every student is encouraged and enabled to fulfil their personal and intellectual potential remains fundamental to its core philosophy.”
Since then, it has grown into an internationally recognised institution serving students from over 55 nationalities, and is a three programme IB World School. It offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), providing a robust academic foundation coupled with a commitment to holistic development.
The international school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), a member of the East Asia Regional Council of Schools (EARCOS), and certified through EduTrust. Its excellence has been recognised with numerous accolades, including being named Best IB School in Singapore by WhichSchoolAdvisor in 2022 and 2024, as well as receiving Gold for The Curriculum Awards (IB) at the Singapore Education Awards in both 2023 and 2024.
Developing Students Holistically
Chatsworth combines academic rigour with a well-rounded approach to education, empowering students to think critically, solve problems, and embrace global citizenship by engaging meaningfully with their communities. Anchored in creativity, innovation, and a broader worldview, the school’s inquiry-based curriculum emphasises practical application and critical thinking. With smaller class sizes, teachers provide personalised attention, adapting to individual learning styles and fostering an environment where students thrive both academically and personally.
Head of School Tyler Sherwood reflected on the school’s enduring ethos, highlighting its commitment to fostering a learning environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. “Our school is a place where education extends beyond the classroom, offering students the opportunity to explore their passions, discover their potential, and grow within a vibrant and supportive community. By fostering critical thinking, encouraging innovation, and nurturing a deep sense of empathy and purpose, we prepare students to face the challenges of an ever-changing world with confidence and resilience. Every student is empowered to lead, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and leave a lasting impact on the world around them,” he said.
A Community-Focussed School
The institution also prides itself on cultivating a strong sense of community, further deepened through the efforts of the Chatsworth Parent Group (CPG). Besides organising events such as Cultural Celebration Day, which features parades, performances, and a food festival that reflects the school’s vibrant diversity, the group also fosters connections through parent-led social clubs, monthly coffee mornings, and initiatives designed to welcome new families.
These initiatives, unique to the community built through Chatsworth, have created opportunities for parents, teachers, and students to build meaningful relationships and strengthen the school’s inclusive and supportive environment. A testament to this strong camaraderie, the school has also been recognised for the past three years as the School Where Everybody Knows Your Name, clinching the best school community award at the Singapore Education Awards (2021 - 2024).
Looking to the Future
As the school moves forward, Head of School Tyler Sherwood outlined his vision for growth, stating, “Our school has always been, and will continue to be, one that is focussed on each student’s individual growth and development. A programme that is balanced and holistic in nature, focussed on relationships and community. Students grow and learn best when they feel a sense of belonging and community. This has always been the ‘Chatsworth way’. Our goal is to prepare our students not only for academic success but for a lifetime of meaningful contributions.”
Chatsworth’s 30th-anniversary celebrations, themed ‘Celebrating our Past. Inspiring the Future’,culminated in a gala dinner on February 21, 2025, at the Intercontinental Hotel. This special event brought together staff, parents, and guests to commemorate three decades of growth and achievement and featured a Long Service Award presentation to recognise dedicated staff members who have contributed to Chatsworth's success. The event was graced by Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Ministry of National Development, honouring the school’s rich legacy and achievements.
