The Thunder Bolt

At Concordia International School Hanoi, the Elementary School (ES) program stands out for its dedicated team of expert educators. Our homeroom teachers are among the best in the world, providing both exceptional instruction and loving care to each class they teach. Our subject specialists, teachers who nurture children’s growth in each grade level across academics, the arts, STEM, and social-emotional learning, ensure that each student benefits from specialized instruction in every discipline.

What makes Concordia’s specialists truly exceptional is their ability to work with students at every stage of Elementary School, from the earliest learners in Reception to those preparing to move on to Middle School. This breadth of experience means they understand the developmental needs, learning milestones, and age-appropriate curriculum for each grade level. They are uniquely skilled at meeting students where they are, building skills year over year, and ensuring each child is equipped academically, socially, and emotionally, to thrive when they take the next big step into Middle School.

From the earliest years, students benefit from the expertise of STEM, art, music, physical education, and library specialists, as well as language experts in English and Vietnamese. This means that each subject is taught by someone with deep knowledge, passion, and skill in their area, ensuring that students experience high-quality, engaging, and hands-on learning. For example, STEM lessons might include design thinking, robotics, coding, and foundational science. Art classes help children explore creative expression and develop their technique. Music sessions focus on building rhythm, performance skills, and collaboration. PE encourages movement, teamwork, and a lifelong love of fitness.

“At Concordia, students, teachers, and parents are dedicated to academics, creativity, and service in a caring and engaging community of learners discovering their talents as scholars, artists, and athletes. Our PE, music, art, STEM, social-emotional guidance counselor, and library teachers embody this mission every single day. They open doors to curiosity, nurture confidence, and inspire compassion — helping students grow not only in skill but also in heart and character. We are profoundly grateful for the passion, innovation, and care they bring to our community.” - Ms. Kristin Kappelmann (Elementary School Principal)

Equally important is Concordia’s commitment to social-emotional learning (SEL) as a core element of every child’s education. Counselors and guidance specialists work closely with each grade level, teaching proactive lessons in friendship, cooperation, conflict resolution, self-regulation, and personal well-being. These lessons aren’t one-off events—they’re woven into the fabric of daily school life, reinforced through group sessions, classroom visits, and school-wide programs. By focusing on empathy, resilience, a growth mindset, and understanding emotions, Concordia ensures that students are not only learning how to excel academically, but also how to care for themselves and connect meaningfully with others.

“I've been part of the Concordia community for almost 10 years, and I’ve had the unique privilege of seeing our Elementary School from two perspectives—both as a parent of four children and as a member of a team of deeply committed educators. I’ve had the joy of watching our students, including my own children, grow, discover their potential, and thrive through each stage of their journey at Concordia. It's amazing to see the vital role each educator plays in nurturing our students’ holistic development. It’s an honor to be part of a community where every member contributes to shaping character, fostering confidence, and inspiring curiosity in each of our students.” - Mrs. Katie Sutherland (Elementary School Counselor)

The expertise of Concordia’s teachers is a defining factor in this success. With small class sizes and a student-to-teacher ratio of about 8:1, every learner is known personally, and instruction can be tailored to meet individual needs. Most teachers hold a Master’s degree or higher, with an average of nearly two decades of teaching experience. Specialists collaborate closely with homeroom teachers and families, adapting lessons and SEL strategies so that each student receives both academic challenge and emotional support. This individualized guidance allows students to grow not just as learners, but as confident, well-rounded young people.

This culture of care is embedded in the community. Respect, connection, and a focus on student well-being make Concordia a safe and empowering place to learn. Because students are supported by passionate Specialists and caring mentors every step of the way, they leave the Elementary School not only well-prepared academically, but also equipped with the confidence, empathy, and curiosity they need to thrive in the years ahead.