At many schools, success is often measured by academic results alone. But at XCL World Academy (XWA), students are encouraged to discover who they are both inside and outside the classroom. For Grade 9 student Nicholas Ni, that journey has led from a childhood love of movie soundtracks to an opportunity to work with professional musicians in London.
At just 14 years old, Nicholas has already composed original film scores, collaborated with professional musicians, and conducted an orchestra performing his own music. Yet what makes his story especially meaningful is not only his talent, but the environment that allowed his passion for music to grow naturally alongside his education.
A Passion for Music That Started Naturally
Nicholas first discovered music around the age of eight after experimenting with a keyboard at home. What began as curiosity quickly became something much deeper. Drawn to film soundtracks and cinematic storytelling, he became fascinated by how music could express emotions and ideas without words.
“Composing felt similar to drawing,” Nicholas explained. “But instead of visuals, you express ideas through sound.”
His mother, Ms. Lina, remembers the moment they realised his musical ability might be something special. After listening to guests play piano at home, Nicholas sat down and replayed the music entirely by ear, despite never having formal training.
Rather than forcing a structured path, his family chose to support his interest organically and allow his creativity to develop at its own pace.
Ms. Lina shared. “If parents continue providing different environments and opportunities, children may eventually find the direction they truly love.”
For many expat parents in Singapore, Nicholas’ story is a reminder that children do not always follow a linear path. Sometimes, the right environment and encouragement can make all the difference.
From Film Scoring Competitions to London
Nicholas’ passion for film music eventually led him to participate in a scoring competition where students were tasked with composing music for a short film. After completing the project, he shared his work with people around him, including a former piano teacher who now works with an orchestra in London.
“That orchestra has a programme that supports students by allowing them to present and perform their work at a professional standard,” Nicholas explained. “They invited me because they liked how it sounded and thought it was a really interesting piece.”
Nicholas later spent around two weeks in London, where he had the opportunity to meet and work alongside professional musicians for the first time.
“They were extremely skilled,” Nicholas admitted. “At first I felt nervous, but they were very friendly.”
The experience also provided meaningful external recognition of Nicholas’ talent as a young composer. Reflecting on the collaboration, London-based violist Scott shared:
“I've worked a lot with film composers, none as young as this age. I think he is very special. He can go a long way.”
For Nicholas and his family, some of the most valuable validation came from the professional musicians themselves. Their appreciation of his work led to a further invitation: Nicholas has been asked to participate in the orchestra’s November performance, where one of his original compositions will be performed.
For Ms. Lina, the experience represented far more than a musical milestone.
“I realised music is part of his life and his thinking,” she said. “We didn’t know he would become a composer, but we weren’t surprised that he found something he truly loves.”
How XWA Supports Student Passions Beyond Academics
What makes Nicholas’ journey particularly relevant for families considering international schools in Singapore is how naturally his interests have been supported alongside his academic development at XWA.
That commitment to nurturing creativity is reflected across the school community. In 2026, XCL World Academy's arts programme received the Public Choice Award for Best Arts Programme at the ASEAN School Awards, recognising the school's dedication to providing students with meaningful opportunities to explore and develop their artistic talents.
Nicholas credits his teachers for taking a genuine interest in his passions beyond schoolwork. Some introduced him to new film soundtracks, while others encouraged him to join the school orchestra and connect with fellow student musicians.
“It’s good to have teachers who are interested in your life outside academics,” Nicholas shared.
For globally mobile and expat families, finding an international school that balances academic excellence with personal growth can be challenging. Ms. Lina believes XWA stands out because students are given the space to explore who they are becoming.
“One thing I appreciate is that children here are allowed to become what they are meant to be,” she said. “The school doesn’t force them. They provide time, balance academics, and allow them to pursue their passions.”
That philosophy resonates strongly with parents looking for a holistic international school education in Singapore, one that values creativity, curiosity, leadership, and individuality just as much as academic achievement.
Building Confidence, Leadership, and Curiosity
Nicholas’ growth at XWA has extended far beyond music itself.
Conducting an orchestra taught him leadership and communication. Working with professional musicians helped him build confidence and adaptability. Exposure to different perspectives and experiences also helped him become more open-minded and curious about the world around him.
Even his interests outside music, including competitive air rifle shooting and engineering, are encouraged rather than limited to a single path.
For parents seeking a student-centred international school in Singapore, Nicholas’ experience reflects the importance of giving children the freedom to explore multiple interests while developing confidence in who they are.
Helping Every Child Find Their Own Path
At XCL World Academy, success is not defined by a single mould. Some students thrive in science, others in athletics, entrepreneurship, design, technology, or the arts. What matters most is creating an environment where students feel supported, inspired, and empowered to pursue what genuinely excites them.
As Ms. Lina reflected:
“When children do what they love, they naturally grow. Passion creates self-driven development that compounds over time.”
And for Nicholas, that journey is only just beginning.
Discover What’s Possible at XWA
Whether your child is an aspiring musician, athlete, innovator, or still discovering their passions, XCL World Academy provides an environment where students are encouraged to grow beyond academics. From supportive teachers to opportunities that nurture creativity, leadership, and curiosity, XWA empowers students to pursue what genuinely inspires them. Book a tour today to explore the XWA campus, connect with the vibrant school community, and discover how XWA helps every child thrive in their own unique way.
