Bilingual Program

Imagine your child developing exceptional problem-solving skills, cognitive flexibility, and the ability to switch tasks effortlessly — all through the power of bilingualism! 

Research shows that learning two languages enhances academic performance and sharpens critical thinking. But its benefits extend far beyond the classroom. Bilingualism nurtures cultural awareness, empathy, and adaptability, empowering students to connect with diverse perspectives in an ever-evolving world. 

At Stamford American, our well-rounded bilingual program in English and Mandarin blends immersive language learning with real-world experiences. Led by expert bilingual educators, we inspire students to become confident, compassionate global citizens, prepared for success in a multilingual future.

Through our innovative one-teacher model, students transition seamlessly between English and Mandarin under the guidance of bilingual educators. From Pre-K to Grade 5, they engage in a rigorous curriculum enriched with cultural exploration, balanced language arts instruction, and a dynamic translanguaging approach across subjects. 

Our program nurtures authentic communication, builds Mandarin literacy, and strengthens inquiry-based learning, all within a vibrant and diverse community. 

Equip your child with the confidence, creativity, and cultural fluency to thrive in a global future!

Our curriculum, spanning Pre-K to Grade 5, seamlessly integrates English and Mandarin instruction to create a dynamic and rigorous learning experience. With 400 minutes of immersive, intensive Mandarin learning each week, our program is rooted in International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) principles and aligned with ACTFL, Common Core, and China National Curriculum standards — ensuring both academic excellence and holistic development. 

From playful, interactive language exploration in Pre-K to immersive, real-world applications in Grades 1 to 5, students develop strong language proficiency while deepening their understanding of diverse cultures. 

Join us in inspiring globally minded, bilingual learners prepared to thrive in a multilingual world!

At Stamford American, we welcome students from diverse backgrounds and aim to provide the right language support to help them succeed. Our entry requirements vary by grade level, ensuring that students can thrive in our bilingual environment.

Early Years

For younger students from Pre-Kindergarten to KG1, there are no formal assessments. Children should be able to communicate in simple English phrases and be open to learning both English and Mandarin. 

As they progress to KG2, they should start understanding and using basic English phrases/sentences, following simple instructions, and engaging with stories. An English language assessment is required at this stage.

Elementary School 

From Grade 1 onwards, students are expected to have a growing ability to communicate, read, and write in English. At this stage, Mandarin proficiency also becomes a factor. Students entering Grade 1 and Grade 2 should either be native speakers of English or Mandarin; or have a basic ability to recognize and use simple Mandarin words. 

By Grade 3, students should be able to follow class discussions, read various texts, and write structured paragraphs in English. In Mandarin, they should recognize Mandarin characters, understand simple instructions, and introduce themselves confidently. Grades 4 and 5 should build on these skills, with students expected to form short sentences, read familiar phrases, and understand basic written Mandarin.

Students from Grades 1 to 5 must complete both an English and a Mandarin language assessment to determine their proficiency and ensure they receive the appropriate language support.

Our goal is to make sure that every student has the skills they need to succeed in a bilingual learning environment. 

In the Stamford American bilingual program, we embrace a natural approach to language learning. Students are encouraged to acquire their second language, in an environment that values exploration and risk-taking while still meeting the target standards. Teachers create meaningful connections between Mandarin and English, using tools like visuals, gestures, and context-based cues to support comprehension.

Students are never pressured to speak immediately; instead, they develop confidence organically. By reinforcing understanding and modelling bilingual communication, we help them build fluency naturally while nurturing their love for both languages.

We track Mandarin progress through placement tests, internal assessments, and STAMP proficiency tests (from Grade 3), evaluating listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. These assessments guide us in tailoring instruction to maximize language growth and confidence for every student. Progress in English is tracked via the same phonics programs (Heggerty for PreK and KG1; For KG2 UFLI phonics) just as it is tracked in all the other non-bilingual classes in Stamford Early Years. In elementary, the comprehensive evaluations of English progress fully align with non-bilingual classes.

At Stamford American International School, your child’s multilingual journey begins the moment they step into our truly bilingual classroom. With a seamless blend of English and Mandarin, our dynamic learning environment fosters confidence, curiosity, and cultural understanding. We are excited to guide your child as they develop language skills, embrace new perspectives, and grow into global citizens ready to thrive in today’s interconnected world. Join us and watch your child’s bilingual journey unfold with passion and purpose at Stamford American.