Children, we don’t realise when we move from playing at home all day with our families and loved ones to sitting in a classroom with other children our age.
It’s as if we have always been there.
If you remember your early years at school as one uninterrupted flow, going from one classroom to the next, kudos must also be given to the administration team who work away from the spotlight.
Malini Chawla, business and administration manager at Australian International School Bangkok (AISB), is one such piece of the puzzle.
Masala drew back the curtains and spoke to her about the job, her journey, and the lessons that can be gleaned from the torchbearers of a new generation.
What drew you to education, and early years in particular? Was there a defining moment or person who set you on this path?
I’ve always been naturally drawn to working with young children, but what truly inspired me was seeing how much of a difference the early years make in shaping a child’s confidence, behaviour, and love for learning.
It was actually my husband who had seen the advertisement in the newspaper for AISB and encouraged me to apply.
Having previously worked at other international schools, I was glad that I was still working in a school environment, but merely shifting to a position where I could challenge myself and continue to grow.
There wasn’t just one defining moment but rather a gradual realisation through my experiences that the foundation built in these early years carries children forward throughout their lives.
You have been with AISB for quite some time. How has the school evolved over the years?
AISB has grown not just in numbers but in quality and structure as well.
When we started, our community was small, but our director had a vision of how to grow the school. From there, we slowly started to progress.
After approximately 13 years of working in the early years, the director planned to expand AISB further into a primary school.
I can never forget the moment I asked her if she was sure the expansion was a good idea.
There is one thing she said that has remained with me to this day: “You can never be a small fish in the ocean. You have to become the shark. You have to continue to challenge yourself. It is the only way you can grow.”
Over the years, we’ve become more intentional in our curriculum, strengthened our communication with parents, and developed clearer systems and policies.
There’s also been a stronger focus on holistic development, balancing academics with social, emotional, and physical growth.
We’ve also placed greater emphasis on children’s overall well-being, including areas like nutrition and daily care.
It’s been rewarding to be part of that journey and contribute to shaping the school culture.
What are your day-to-day responsibilities, and how have your experiences shaped your work style?
My role is quite dynamic.
I oversee daily operations, support staff, guide parents through enrolment and school processes, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
I’m also very involved in addressing parent concerns and maintaining strong communication.
Due to my experience in working with a wide range of teaching staff, I also focus on selecting the right person for the right role.
Building a strong, reliable team is very important to me, as it directly impacts the children’s experience.
Another thing I am mindful of, beyond the classroom, is meal planning.
Planning a menu yourself is a very rewarding experience.
I help to ensure we use healthy ingredients, including hormone-free meats and fresh vegetables sourced from reliable suppliers.
One little detail is our switch from regular flour to oat flour in our baking.
It is a small element that parents might not notice, but when they do, it’s gratifying.
Early years education is often considered the foundation. What does that responsibility feel like for you?
It’s a big responsibility, but it’s also a privilege.
These are the years when children form their first impressions, learn how to socialise, and build confidence.
I always remind myself that these children are the beating heart of their families.
Parents place a great deal of trust in us and I take that responsibility very seriously.
It drives me to ensure that every child is safe, happy, and supported in their development.
What are you most proud of, both in terms of personal growth and professional achievements?
The opportunity I received has made me what I am today.
I am proud I didn’t hold myself back and abandon the path in the middle. I kept moving forward.
Professionally, I’m proud of contributing to the steady growth of the school and building strong relationships with parents, filled with trust.
Creating an environment where parents feel confident leaving their children with us is something I value greatly.
In that vein, I’m proud of becoming more patient, adaptable, and attentive to detail.
Being involved on a curricular level helped me learn what education really means for a child.
My experience with every child is different, and I have learned a lot through my interactions.
The opportunities you get are only as important as you make them, and working with top education specialists has helped me grow.
Have there been moments of difficulty through the years?
Yes, definitely.
I would never say everything is smooth. There are always challenges, but with the support of my team, I have always managed to overcome them.
During these times, I focus on clear communication, consistency, and fairness.
Staying calm and composed has helped me work through difficult situations effectively.
Looking back, it was a learning journey for me.
Today, I don’t argue when someone comes to me.
If they tell me their issues, I listen; I take time to reflect; I get back to them after a day or two.
This gives me more time to make the right decision.
What are some small everyday moments that others may take for granted but that remind you why you do what you do?
Simple moments like a child settling in after initially struggling, or seeing them engaged during the day, are very meaningful to me.
When parents express relief or gratitude, it reinforces why I do what I do.
What’s important to me is if the child gains confidence and goes home happy or is happy to come to school, it shows we are doing the right thing.
And these are the small, everyday moments that are so powerful.
How has working with young children changed you and the way you interact with the world?
When you work with little children, you have to be fond of kids, and you have to have the right heart.
I’ve become more mindful of how I communicate, not just with children but with adults as well.
It has also taught me to appreciate little progress and not rush outcomes.
Even little things like taking turns or sharing with others, especially when you are at the tender age of two or three, can be a momentous occasion.
It’s beautiful to see them grow that way, and when you learn these things, it helps you understand that even adults aren’t perfect, and patience goes a long way.
When work may feel overwhelming, how do you reconnect with yourself?
I take a step back, reflect, and focus on what can be controlled.
Sometimes it’s as simple as taking a short break, organising my thoughts, or speaking with colleagues.
By reminding myself of the bigger picture, supporting children and their families, I stay grounded.
Another thing I make sure to keep in my routine is a workout.
I make sure that I get my workout done in the mornings before I start work, and I’ve found that it really energises me.
When I wake up, I don’t think I’ve ever had a day where I’ve said, I don’t want to go to work.
It’s my happy place; my passion.
If you weren’t in education, what do you think you’d be doing?
That’s a really good question.
I’ve dedicated almost 30 years of my life to education.
If I look back and think about not working in this field, I believe I would still be in a role that involves working with people.
Whether that would be related to child development, family support, or even running a business, I’m naturally drawn to roles where I can make a positive impact.
I also have a passion for baking.
I love creating menus, baking cakes, and making healthy options for my family, so I think that might have been something I could have done if I hadn’t pursued a career in the education sector.