What is Lasallian Education?
Located in Tropicana, Petaling Jaya, St. Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia (SJIIM) is an exceptional international school that has achieved unprecedented student growth and produced well-rounded students with outstanding academic results. In the 2018 International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) examinations, two SJIIM students scored a near perfect 44 points while most students boasted an aggregate score of 37 points, significantly higher than both the Malaysian and global average.
Among the many factors contributing to the international school’s outstanding success is its firm roots in Lasallian education. SJIIM is part of a global network of schools from France to America and Hong Kong that practice Lasallian education, a traditional set of beliefs, values and philosophies that promote educational excellence and has been used for more than 300 years.
History of Lasallian Education
Lasallian Education dates its origins back to John-Baptiste De La Salle, a French Roman Catholic priest officially canonized as the patron saint of all teachers. De La Salle was moved by the abandonment of the children of the poor in France and thus dedicated most of his life to educating them, eventually forming the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools also known as the De La Salle Brothers. Under the Lasallian vision and mission of education, the institute began establishing schools for the poor and needy all over the world including the original St. Joseph’s Institution, Singapore which was founded in 1852.
The Ethos of Lasallian Education
A core belief of Lasallian education is the development of ‘good character’. Lasallian education is holistic in nature in that it develops intellectual and performative virtues such as critical thinking and diligence but also cultivates moral and civic virtues such as compassion, humility, and community awareness. It understands that skills and abilities need to be guided by a strong
moral compass. Hence, Lasallian educators seek to enrich morals and ethical values in students that will not just ensure academic success but also secure them a fulfilled, meaningful and productive life as contributing members of society. Thus, SJIIM imparts the message of ‘Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve’ to its students.
Moreover, Lasallian education heavily emphasizes the role teachers play in the development of students as individuals. Staff and educators promote ‘good character’ in students through modelling exemplary attributes and behaviors. Students are seen as ‘disciples’ and the relationship between students and teachers are based on deep mutual respect and fairness. Embodying the vision and spirituality of John-Baptiste De La Salle, Lasallian educators are trained in effective communication with students, relaying their in-depth knowledge and experiences with expert care and empathy. Hence, with their goal of “teach minds, touch hearts“, Lasallian education institutions such as SJIIM seek to ignite a life-long passion for learning in their students.
Though Lasallian education is explicit in its Catholic origins and spirit, it is also steadfast in its commitment of inclusiveness towards all individuals regardless of faith, race or gender. In Lasallian schools, all the students matter and are cared for especially ‘The Least, The Last and The Lost’. The curriculum is rigorous yet personalized, taking into account the individual circumstances of each student. True to the spirit, SJIIM allocates deserving students scholarships to pursue the IBDP. Lasallian education also understands the importance of students feeling respected and valued and being part of a strong community united in heart and mind. Staff and students collaborate to create a positive and nurturing school environment and culture. Thus, SJIIM implements a House System whereby students are able to interact frequently and meaningfully with their juniors, seniors and teachers in various House events.
SJIIM: True Lasallian Education
Overall, Lasallian education aims to bring about the next-generation of leaders who are intelligent, diligent, sociable and creative yet also empathetic, kind and dedicated to serving for the betterment of mankind. St. Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia (SJIIM) embodies this vision and philosophy through its continuation of Lasallian education excellence. SJIIM welcomes all new and prospective parents for enquiries and admissions at the school. Come visit us and explore what Lasallian holistic education is all about.
