Stamford American International School is committed to providing support for students who are studying and living in Singapore without a parent or parents living with the child in Singapore for less than 90% of the term time. Our top priority is ensuring all students reside in safe and well-supported living conditions that promote academic success and well-being. We work closely with families to ensure that all students live in safe, supportive environments that promote their well-being, health and overall success. Please note that students under 12 years old must live with a parent or an extended family member approved by the subschool to enroll at Stamford American.
What is guardianship?
‘Guardianship’ is the term used to describe when a student who is over the age of 12 does not live with their parents or legal carers for at least 90% of the term time (including weekends). A Guardian is an adult who takes on the everyday responsibility to care for, support and keep a student safe while they reside with them. They take a personal interest in the progress and welfare of the young person, fulfilling the roles typical of a parent. For students aged 12 and older who will not live with a parent, there are three main options for Guardianship. In all cases, parents must appoint a guardian who meets the criteria outlined below and ensure the school is informed. Completion of the Guardianship Agreement Form is required.
Under 12s should live with a parent. Please note that there may be exceptional circumstances where students under 12 years old live with extended family.
Living with Extended Family
A student living with their maternal or paternal grandparents, aunts or uncles (including those by marriage), or other blood-related family, such as siblings over the age of 21 who have an existing relationship with the child and who possess the skills and capacity to fulfil guardianship responsibilities.
Boarding
A student residing in a reputable boarding facility receiving housing, meals, and supervision. SAIS currently has an established working relationship with Oldham Hall. It is a trusted boarding option catering to international students. For more details, please visit the ACS Oldham Hall website.
Homestay
A student who lives with an adult while attending school, whose parents live permanently outside the country of study. This adult may be a paid homestay guardian or a paid employee of the parents who has the legal right to act as a guardian. For homestay to be suitable for the student, the school must be satisfied that the placement is in the best interests of the student, and the guardian can adequately support the student academically, socially, and emotionally. We encourage parents to visit several homestays before making a decision on where to place your child. For more information, please visit our Guardianship FAQs for quick answers to common questions, or view our Guardianship Booklet for a more comprehensive guide.
Parents reside in Singapore for less than 90% of the term time
For parents in this category, parents must assign a live-in guardian during their absence. Students should not be left alone or in the sole care of a domestic helper.
**We recognize that there are exceptional circumstances where your family situation does not fit clearly into these categories, please contact the Guardianship Team at guardianship@sais.edu.sg to discuss further.
Guardian Criteria
Guardians must meet the following requirements:
● Be over 25 years of age
● 21 years of age if an extended family member.
● Be a Singapore Citizen/Permanent Resident.
● For extended family members, Employment Pass and Long Term Visit Pass holders will be considered.
● Resides at the same address (legal domicile) as the student (except for Oldham Halls residents).
● Be able to communicate effectively in English, both spoken and written.
● For extended family members, a communicator should be identified if the Guardian is unable to communicate with school staff in English.
● Adhere to a limit of 6 live-in students (total, from any school), with an additional cap of 6 boarding students in Oldham Hall.
● Must be willing to work in partnership with Stamford American and comply with the school’s expectations.
● Should have no criminal record related to violence, or offenses against children and vulnerable adults.
The parent is encouraged to verify the suitability of a Guardian through their own due diligence, including background checks to ensure there is no history of criminal records related to violence, or offenses against children and vulnerable adults. Such actions are the sole responsibility of the parent.
Temporary Absence of Parents/Guardians
When parents or guardians are temporarily absent from Singapore. Please complete and submit an in-loco parentis form to the relevant sub-school office to nominate an adult living at the same address as the child to whom parental responsibility will be delegated to.
For Prospective Families
Please indicate on your application form if your child will live without a parent or if the residence time of the parents is less than 90% of the term time in Singapore. During the application and enrolment process, a Guardianship Agreement Form must be completed and signed. Students cannot begin attending school until an appropriate guardian has been identified and the required form has been submitted.
For Current Families
● Inform the Guardianship Team via email (guardianship@sais.edu.sg) when considering a change in your child’s living arrangements, or guardian.
● Basic information, living situation and guardian details will be collected. A meeting with the Guardianship Team may also be scheduled.
● Complete and sign the Guardianship Agreement Form provided by the Guardianship Team
