October 15, 2024, Phnom Penh – The Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS) welcomed dignitaries, members of the Board of Directors and friends of the school to inaugurate the new Donna Trafford Atelier at Bassac Garden Campus today.

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, the atelier (studio) is a place where young children can work on projects, investigate and be creative with the support of teachers.

“We are very pleased that Donna Trafford was able to travel from Canada to join us for today’s ribbon cutting. Donna, after whom the atelier was named, was the founding principal of CIS and is a member of the Board of Directors. She is a passionate advocate of play-based learning and the Reggio Emilia approach, which underpin our Early Years Program,” explained Karen Holmes, Senior Director of the Early Years Program. “We honour Donna’s formative contribution to our school.” 

Zak Garofolo, Campus Development Director, commented on the outcome of the year-long construction process led by Koh Pich Construction Company. “We are very happy with the result. Our focus on environmental concepts, such as natural ventilation, has been realized. The accessible, cool, light-filled spaces will help the children to feel comfortable at play,” said Garofolo. “Thank you to WISE Architecture for their vision and commitment to enhancing well-being through design.”

Bassac Garden Campus is located on Acacia Street, a private, leafy side street just off Norodom Blvd near the Embassy of Japan. It is home to children 18 months to 4 years of age in the school’s Early Years Program. The completion of the Donna Trafford Atelier expands the overall campus footprint. The atelier includes 13 unique learning spaces positioned around a central, spiraling ramp. At ground level is an open-air eating space, children’s kitchen, gymnasium and playground. Bicycle paths wrap around the perimeter.

“The atelier was a logical and inspiring addition to Bassac Garden Campus,” explained Leah Dushenski, Head of School. “The Reggio Emilia approach places great emphasis on the learning environment as a child’s ‘third teacher’. It also encourages young children to be creative and ask questions. Our atelier is designed to pique children’s curiosity and spur inquiry at every turn. I am proud to share this wonderful space with CIS families.”

For further information, please contact:

• Ms. Leah Dushenski, Head of School (English), [email protected], +855 23 900 399
• Ms. Casandra Gally, Marketing Manager (English, French, Spanish), [email protected], +855 23 900 399