Support for Students Living Away From Parents
At Stamford American International School, some students aged 12 and above may live in Singapore with an approved guardian while their parents are based overseas or are in Singapore for less than 90% of term time.
A guardian takes on the everyday responsibility of caring for the student, supporting their wellbeing and helping them stay connected with school life. They should take a genuine interest in the student’s progress and be able to work closely with Stamford when needed.
Students under 12 are expected to live with a parent, although exceptional circumstances involving approved extended family may be considered.
Speak With Our Guardianship Team
Choosing a guardianship arrangement is an important decision, and every family’s circumstances are different. Stamford can help you understand the available options, guardian requirements and documentation needed before your child joins the school.
Guardianship Options
For students aged 12 and above who will not live with a parent, Stamford recognizes three main guardianship arrangements. In every case, parents must appoint a guardian who meets Stamford’s requirements, inform the school and complete the required Guardianship Agreement Form before the student begins attending school.
Living with Extended Family: This may include grandparents, aunts, uncles or other eligible relatives who already have a relationship with the student and can take on guardianship responsibilities.
Boarding: Students may live in a reputable boarding facility that provides accommodation, meals and supervision. Stamford currently has an established relationship with ACS Oldham Hall.
Homestay: Students may live with a suitable adult guardian while their parents are based outside Singapore. The arrangement should provide the academic, social and emotional support the student needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to some of the most common questions about guardianship at Stamford.
Guardianship applies when a student lives with someone other than their parent or legal carer for most of the school term. The guardian takes responsibility for the student’s day-to-day care, safety and wellbeing, while also taking an active interest in their progress and school life.
Students under 12 are generally required to live with a parent. Students aged 12 and above may live under an approved guardianship arrangement. Exceptional circumstances involving an extended family member may be considered for younger students, and families should speak with Stamford before making arrangements.
For students aged 12 and above, arrangements may include living with an eligible extended family member, staying at Stamford’s preferred boarding partner Oldham Hall, or living with a suitable homestay guardian. If your circumstances do not fit clearly within these options, our Guardianship Team can discuss them with you.
Guardians are generally expected to be at least 25 years old, or 21 if they are an eligible extended family member. They should meet Stamford’s residency requirements, live at the same address as the student where required, be contactable and able to work closely with the school. Parents are responsible for carrying out appropriate checks when choosing a guardian.
A guardian should provide consistent care, support the student’s safety and wellbeing, encourage their academic progress and help them participate fully in school life. They should also be available when the school needs to make contact or requires the student to be collected.
Look beyond the accommodation itself. Consider the student’s wellbeing, access to appropriate meals and healthcare, privacy, safety, study space, internet access and everyday routines. The guardian should live at the same address, take an active interest in the student and provide appropriate supervision and support. More detailed guidance is available in the Guardianship Booklet.
Consider how comfortable your child is managing daily routines, communicating their needs, responding to everyday challenges and making responsible choices without a parent present. Their attendance, academic progress and any additional support needs should also form part of the decision. If you are unsure, the Guardianship Team can talk through your child’s circumstances with you.
Need Help With Guardianship?
Find out more about Stamford’s guardianship requirements, available arrangements and the support provided to families.