Secondary School

Hello and welcome to the Secondary School at the English School of Mongolia.

My name is Brett Cain, and I am delighted to lead the Secondary team. With over 30 years in education and seven years in senior leadership, including experience as a Head Teacher in Moscow, I am deeply passionate about helping young people grow into confident, kind, and successful individuals.

Our school is a welcoming and inclusive community where every student is known, supported, and encouraged. We value strong relationships, open communication, and a shared commitment to helping students discover their strengths—both academically and personally. I am proud to work alongside a talented staff team and an inspiring group of students who make ESM such a special place to learn.

Warmest wishes,

Brett Cain

Head Teacher of Secondary

At The English School of Mongolia, students in Grades 6–8 follow the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP). The programme provides a broad, balanced
and internationally minded education that supports students’ academic achievement, personal development and preparation for future study.

Our curriculum is carefully planned across departments to ensure progression between grade levels and a smooth transition from Primary School into Secondary School and, subsequently, into our upper-grade programmes. Through inquiry-based learning, students are encouraged to think critically, make connections between subjects and apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Students study subjects across the eight MYP subject groups:

•  English Language and Literature
•  Language Acquisition (Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Korean, German and French)
•  Individuals and Societies
•  Sciences
•  Mathematics
•  Arts (Music, Visual Arts and Dance)
•  Design
•  Mongolian Language, Literature and Script
•  Physical and Health Education

The programme also includes form time, enrichment activities and whole-school assemblies, supporting students’ wellbeing, personal development and sense of belonging.
Our highly qualified specialist teachers inspire students to become curious, confident and independent learners. Through classroom learning, interdisciplinary experiences and a wide
range of extracurricular opportunities, students are encouraged to discover their individual talents, interests and passions while developing the skills and values needed to thrive at school and beyond.

This two-year programme in our Upper-Secondary School offers broad and well-rounded academic support that helps students gain the right qualifications for the future.

After completing Year 8 – our students follow the IGCSE (International General Certificate in Secondary Education) programme developed by the University of Cambridge International Examinations. It is one of the most popular international qualifications for 14-16-year-old candidates. After selecting their IGCSE options – our students work towards their IGCSE exams.

In addition to the Core Curriculum of English, Mathematics and the Sciences the options on offer are Physical education, Geography, Chinese, Russian, Japanese, French, Korean Art, Business studies and History. The curriculum is complemented by P.E, ICT, Songs and Mongolian studies. This rigorous two-year programme refines each child’s knowledge, nurtures their talents, and builds independence. This readies them for the challenge of the IB Programme in Year 11 and 12.

Your child’s academic programme will be complemented by a variety of enriching experiences. These include trips, extra-curricular activities, and creative, sporting, social, and leadership opportunities.

Our Personal Development Curriculum is an essential part of school life at ESM. Delivered through weekly assemblies, Form Time, morning registration, enrichment activities and special events, it supports students’ personal, social, emotional and physical development.

The curriculum is organised around three key strands: Health and Wellbeing, Relationships, and Living in the Wider World. Students explore topics such as healthy relationships, personal safety, digital responsibility, physical and mental wellbeing, respectful behaviour, diversity, leadership and preparation for life beyond school.

Through discussion, reflection, presentations, collaborative activities and student-led initiatives, students develop confidence, independence, resilience and critical-thinking skills. The programme reflects ESM’s values of Respect, Responsibility and Resilience and helps students make informed decisions, contribute positively to their community and become responsible, internationally minded young people.

Our Personal Development Curriculum is an essential part of school life at ESM. Delivered through weekly assemblies, Form Time, morning registration, enrichment activities and special events, it supports students’ personal, social, emotional and physical development.

The curriculum is organised around three key strands: Health and Wellbeing, Relationships, and Living in the Wider World. Students explore topics such as healthy relationships, personal safety, digital responsibility, physical and mental wellbeing, respectful behaviour, diversity, leadership and preparation for life beyond school.

Through discussion, reflection, presentations, collaborative activities and student-led initiatives, students develop confidence, independence, resilience and critical-thinking skills. The programme reflects ESM’s values of Respect, Responsibility and Resilience and helps students make informed decisions, contribute positively to their community and become responsible, internationally minded young people.