Frequently Asked Questions

What curriculum does PRA offer?

PRA uses the Cambridge curriculum for our foundational academic classes - English, Maths and Science. The Cambridge International Curriculum is a globally recognized educational framework that offers a comprehensive and flexible learning experience for students aged 3 to 19. It is designed to develop confident, responsible, reflective, innovative, and engaged learners who are well-prepared for life, work, and further study. For Upper Secondary we use an accredited online academic curriculum aligned with U.S. education standards.

The Cambridge curriculum is structured across four progressive stages:

Early Years Foundation Stage EYFS (20 months–5 years): A play-based framework emphasizing communication, social-emotional growth, physical development, and early literacy and numeracy skills.

Cambridge Primary (5–11 years): A clear, adaptable curriculum covering subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science.
Cambridge Lower Secondary (11–14 years): Builds on the primary stage with a focus on developing skills for further learning.
Upper Secondary (14–18 years) Includes a flexible online academic curriculum aligned with U.S. education standards, and vocational courses to support pathways to high school graduation, university admission, or workforce readiness.

In addition to the Cambridge curriculum, Palm River Academy offers a robust vocational program with specialized teachers. Our vocational program changes on an annual basis and has included classes such as: business, public speaking, cooking, etc. Our goal is to equip students with both a strong academic foundation as well as crucial life skills while promoting global citizenship.

What does a typical day look like at PRA?

A typical day runs from 8:30am until 3:20pm, with morning drop-off occurring between 8am and 8:30am.

Primary Program
Students begin each day with their homeroom teacher, who reviews important announcements and sets the tone for the day. Mornings are dedicated to Cambridge academic subjects such as English, Math, and Science. In the afternoons, students participate in vocational classes like cooking, technology, and art—balancing academic learning with creative, hands-on experiences.

Secondary Program
Like the Primary Program, students start their day with the homeroom teacher, who reviews announcements and the daily schedule. Cambridge academic subjects (English, Science, and Math) are taught throughout the day, with some in the morning and others in the afternoon. Vocational classes such as public speaking, business, and technology are integrated across the week.

Students also take part in Physical Education twice a week.

Boredom Time

In addition to these classes, we have instituted a “Boredom Period” two to three times a week. Research has shown that boredom has many benefits for children. Our “Boredom Periods” are essentially unstructured time when children can choose their own activities - reading, board games, chatting with friends, developing their own projects. This promotes a sense of control, which leads to higher internal motivation, better emotional self-regulation and creativity.

Every day we also have two recess/snack periods, in addition to the lunch break.

What is your teaching & learning philosophy?

What does “project-based” and “play-based” learning mean?

At Palm River Academy, we use evidence-based teaching methods. Children learn best when they are engaged in their own learning. This means that we use active learning methods such as hands-on activities, discussions, and small group work.

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a student-centered teaching method in which learners gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to real-world questions or challenges. In PBL, students engage in hands-on, meaningful projects that integrate multiple subject areas and promote critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication.

Project-based learning means that we expose students to real-life challenges and situations. Students work collaboratively to brainstorm, develop potential solutions, and put their ideas into action.

For instance:

Cell Model Making: Students researched and built 3D models of plant and animal cells to understand their structure and function.
Tiny House Model Design: Students explored sustainability and design by planning and constructing scale models of tiny homes.
Pet Turtle Care Project: Students learned about animal needs and responsibility by caring for and documenting the growth of a classroom turtle.
Science Experiments: Students developed and ran their own experiments using the scientific method, testing hypotheses and recording results.
Building & Testing Projects: From bridges to towers, students designed and tested structures using real materials and collaborative planning.
Coding & Robotics: Students explored programming through building and coding simple robots and interactive devices.
Website Project (Y8–9): Older students showcased their learning through a collaborative website, combining digital design, writing, and reflection.

Do you offer part-time or short-term programs?

Yes, we do. At Palm River Academy, we pride ourselves on offering flexible learning options to meet the diverse needs of our families. Our Global Program allows students to enroll part-time—either in the vocational program or the Cambridge academic program—on a half-day basis. These programs are designed for short-term study, with durations ranging from 3 weeks to 3 months. Please inquire with our admissions team to learn more about flexible learning options and availability.

If my child studies at PRA, will they be able to re-enter the Vietnamese MOET system?

After studying at Palm River Academy, your child can transfer into other international schools as well as schools overseas. We have successfully supported students’ transfer into international schools in places such as Hanoi and India. We have also successfully placed students into high schools in the US and Australia, as well as supported students to attend university abroad. Palm River Academy does not offer the MOET curriculum.

Palm River Academy is an English language center. What does this mean?

We are registered as an English language center. This means that we have received authorization from local government authorities to teach classes in English. To promote global citizenship and learning in English, we offer a wide range of classes in English. This exposes students to conversational English, academic English and more technical English - preparing them to be fully prepared for the world of work.

How does Palm River Academy support students with diverse learning needs?

At Palm River Academy, we are committed to creating an inclusive, student-centered environment where all children feel supported and valued. During the admissions process, we meet with each prospective student to assess their learning needs. If we can meet those needs with our current staffing and resources, we move forward with enrollment and collaborate with families to create a support plan.
When additional support is needed, we refer families to The LA Center, a trusted local partner that offers specialized services such as one-on-one support, therapy, and assessments. These services are arranged and paid for directly by the family.

Our teachers receive ongoing training in supporting students with autism, ADHD, learning differences, and emotional regulation. Inclusion is a core value at Palm River Academy, and we strive every day to ensure every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.

What language are the classes taught in?

All of our classes at Palm River Academy are taught in English. At the primary and secondary levels, Cambridge subjects are delivered by native English-speaking teachers. In the early years program, classes are led by teachers who hold TESOL certification and have experience supporting young language learners.

While all our teachers are required to have a TESOL certification, the majority also hold degrees in education and/or formal teaching credentials.

We offer Vietnamese as a second language and have previously offered French, although language course offerings may vary from year to year based on student interest and staffing.

What is the student-to-teacher ratio?

We maintain small class sizes to support individualized learning and strong student-teacher connections. Our Cambridge classes typically have no more than 13 students, though class sizes may be slightly larger if classroom space allows.

In the Early Years and some Primary classes, a Teaching Assistant supports the lead teacher, ensuring each child receives the attention and care they need to succeed.

Does Palm River Academy offer Extra-Curricular Activities?

Yes, Palm River Academy offers Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) throughout the year. Each ECA lasts between 5 to 8 weeks and is scheduled right after the day ends (3:30pm to 4:10pm). ECAs change every year. Examples of past ECAs include: pickleball, movement, computer games, sports, art etc. Some ECAs are free of charge while others require a small fee.

Are students required to wear uniforms at Palm River Academy?

PRA does not have a uniform policy. Students are encouraged to choose clothing that reflects their personal style and preferences.