Ever wondered how a school in Dili helps shape Timor-Leste’s future? Today, we are standing in front of Dili International School. It is a place where young minds learn and grow.
Dili International School started in July 2002. Carmel Bates and her spouse began the school in their home. They lived in Kampong Alor. They wanted to educate their own three children.
In February 2003, Dili International School moved. It needed a larger campus. The new location was in Pantai Kelapa. Preschool and playgroup classes were soon added.
In January 2006, the school began a Secondary Distance Education Support program. Many people had asked for secondary schooling.
The civil unrest of 2006 affected Timor-Leste. Many families left. Dili International School closed early for the holiday break. It reopened quickly. The school lost no student contact time.
At the end of 2006, Preschool and Playgroup moved. It went to a nearby location. A Community Preschool also started. It was for local Timorese children. It was also for the children of the school’s Timorese staff. The school was called “Fini Moris” in Tetun. This means “Growing Seed”.
Recruiting qualified teachers was hard. High-level security warnings were in place after the conflict. Dili International School regained its full teaching staff in January 2008.
The school then began to renew and consolidate. It further developed its identity. Infrastructure, policies, and procedures became more formal.
In early 2010, Dili International School introduced face-to-face learning. This was for secondary students. It replaced the Distance Education programs for years 7-10.
In 2012, the school was authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Middle Years program. This followed a rigorous process. In 2014, the Primary School also gained authorization. It could offer the IB Primary Years Programme.
In April 2013, Dili International School gained accreditation. This was through Haileybury College in Australia. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority accredited the school. It could offer the Victorian Certificate of Education VCE. This certificate is recognized internationally for university entrance.
The Timor-Leste Ministry of Education recognizes Dili International School. The Ministry uses it as an example of best practice. The school provides training for Timorese teachers and administrators. It collaborates to help develop the Timorese Education system.
Dili International School is accredited with several organizations. These include the International Baccalaureate Organisation. They also include the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. The school follows the Australian Curriculum for its senior program.
The school’s motto is “Embracing Diversity”. The school nurtures open-minded global citizens. They respect diversity. They help build an inclusive and equitable future for Timor-Leste. They also do it for the world.
Dili International School aims to inspire caring students. It wants them to achieve their full potential. They should be reflective lifelong learners. They should contribute to local and global communities. They should act with confidence, empathy, and integrity.
Dili International School has achieved excellent results. This includes secondary school literacy and numeracy benchmark testing. Ms. Carmel Bates received the Order of Timor-Leste Medal. She received it on behalf of Dili International School.
As we conclude our visit, remember that Dili International School is more than just a school. It is a symbol of hope. It is helping to shape a brighter future for Timor-Leste.