Traditionally, failure - or simply getting something wrong - is seen as something wholly negative, but it is increasingly being recognised as absolutely fundamental to the learning process, something that builds resilience and grit, and, perhaps most importantly, something that is fundamental in the most innovative, disruptive and successful businesses. As the world becomes increasingly ‘dynamic’ the most successful individuals and companies may need to ‘pivot’ frequently to stay ahead of the competition, and innovation inevitably requires both individuals and companies to be brave enough to try what others have not. What some describe as the long tail is where success lies, or, in other words, for every one hit, there inevitably need to be many more misses.
Jeff Bezos, when reflecting on the catastrophic failure of the Amazon Fire Phone, reportedly said:
“If you think that’s a big failure, we’re working on much bigger failures right now. I am not kidding. Some of them are going to make the Fire Phone look like a tiny little blip.”
Reed Hastings, Netflix CEO has said:
“Our hit ratio is way too high right now. I’m always pushing the content team. We have to take more risk. You have to try more crazy things."
Our students can learn a lot from this approach. If they are frightened of failing or getting things wrong, they will never stretch or challenge themselves, and they will never reach their maximum potential. As my colleagues in the Primary School will frequently say -
'FAIL is simply the First Attempt In Learning!'
Have a wonderful weekend, everyone.
David Tongue
Principal
Primary children will have hours of fun and exercise on it - both of which are incredibly important to us, representing our focus on the whole child. And, as a not-for-profit school, this investment means we can commit funds to other areas of the school. Every riyal that comes into DC is spent on DC, not only remaining in the country but specifically linked to pupil outcomes.
We hope it is a relationship that will continue to build with Mr Al-Attiyah and also that it will spark a passion and generate momentum with other donors, both personal and commercial. Please do get in touch with me directly (dlish@dohacollege.com) if you would like to ask about projects you could donate to on a personal level or in a corporate capacity.
Do also let me know if you have contacts you think I could speak to about such projects.
David Lish
Chief Operating Officer
As the seasons change, we find ourselves entering the time of year when colds and coughs become more prevalent. I wanted to take a moment to remind you of the importance of taking precautionary measures to ensure the health and well-being of our school community.
If your child is showing signs of illness, such as a cold or cough, please consider keeping them at home. This not only allows them the necessary time to recover but also helps prevent the spread of illnesses to their classmates and teachers. It's crucial to foster a healthy environment within our school.
Additionally, I want to emphasise the significance of good hygiene practices. Please remind your children to wash their hands regularly, especially after using the washroom and before meals. Proper handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs.
By working together and taking these simple yet impactful steps, we can create a healthier and more supportive learning environment for everyone. Thank you for your cooperation, and please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Wishing you and your family a healthy and happy season.
Hannilyn Amararon
School Nurse
I want you to know that ensuring the timely submission of all necessary paperwork before your child embarks on an educational visit is not only crucial for the seamless execution of the visit but is of utmost importance in terms of safeguarding. The requirement for well-organised documentation acts as a fundamental safety net, enabling us to be thoroughly prepared for any contingencies that may arise during the visit. This paperwork, including consent forms, medical information, emergency contacts, and relevant permissions, underscores a resolute commitment to the highest standards of safeguarding.
The insistence on timely submission is driven by the need for robust planning and comprehensive risk assessment. As a school, we must anticipate and proactively address potential challenges, ranging from medical emergencies to unforeseen logistical issues. Up-to-date medical information about each child is not just helpful but critical for swift and informed decision-making in emergency situations. The submission of consent forms and permissions ensures that parents are actively involved, fostering a collaborative and transparent approach to your child's welfare.
Please submit documents promptly is not just an administrative inconvenience; it is a non-negotiable prerequisite for trip participation, underscoring the gravity of the responsibility in organising and overseeing children's well-being outside of the school. It is a fundamental step in ensuring that each child's experience is not only enriching but, above all, safe.
We collectively share the responsibility of creating an environment where children can explore, learn, and grow with the assurance that their well-being is prioritised in every endeavour.
Uzma Zaffar
Vice Principal – Compliance Safeguarding Staff
In celebration of World Children's Day on 20th November, our school community came together to reflect on the significance of this global observance. At the heart of the celebration lies the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), a landmark treaty that outlines the fundamental rights and protections every child deserves. During assembly and student-led discussions, our students delved into the principles of the UNCRC, recognising the importance of ensuring children's rights are respected and upheld worldwide. We spoke together and contemplated the current devastating circumstances in Gaza, where the rights of children are being violated. This reflection prompted meaningful conversations among our students about the power of advocacy and the necessity of standing up for the rights of others and against injustice. It reinforced the idea that our voices matter, and as global citizens, we have a responsibility to use our voices to amplify those who may be marginalised or silenced. Through these discussions, we hope to instil in our students a sense of empathy and a commitment to actively contribute to a world where every child's rights are protected and valued.
At Doha College Primary, we firmly believe in fostering an inclusive environment where every voice and opinion is not only heard but also respected. We understand that the richness of our community lies in the diversity of perspectives that each student brings to the table. Emphasising the importance of open dialogue and active listening, we strive to create a space where students feel empowered to express their thoughts and ideas. By ensuring that all voices are valued, we cultivate an atmosphere that promotes understanding, empathy, and collaboration. This commitment to inclusivity extends beyond the classroom, permeating every aspect of our school culture. It is our belief that by embracing the diversity of voices within our community, we not only enhance the educational experience but also prepare our students to navigate the complexities of the world with a deep appreciation for the power of dialogue and mutual respect. We finished our assembly by reminding the children that we want to ensure that they know who they can speak to if they are worried or concerned or want to express an opinion – and that all adults are here to listen to them, take care of them and to keep them safe.
Ruth Whymark
Senior Vice Principal - Head of Primary
As we approach the weekend, our campus is abuzz with activity. We're thrilled to be hosting the 15th Annual DCMUN (Model United Nations) Conference, bringing together over 400 students from 13 schools, including a significant representation from our own DC community.
The DCMUN Conference offers students a unique chance to engage with global issues, refine their communication skills, and collaborate for solutions. To our diligent staff and student leaders behind this event, we extend our sincere appreciation for making this enriching opportunity possible.
Simultaneously, we're eagerly looking forward to hosting the BSME Football Games, where 14 schools from the Middle East will gather here at DC for a weekend of spirited competition and camaraderie.
Adding to our lineup of activities, we're conducting Medical Mock Interviews for our Sixth Form students aspiring to pursue medical degrees. These sessions aim to provide invaluable guidance and practical experience as they set their sights on a career in medicine.
This weekend promises a diverse blend of discussions, cheers, and focused learning. These events truly last long in the memory for all involved!
Best of luck to all involved.
Jerome Scafe
Senior Vice Principal - Head of Secondary
Year 5 Athletes: Darinka Moreno Apostu, Khalifa Pinnock, Talia Ali, Taimaa Al Jariri, Niam Joshi, Ariella Aliyu, Rony Sobh, Talia Alchami, Romanos Tetagiotis, Elias Jan.
Year 6 Athletes: Harry Dickinson, Jaya Laughton, Jonathan Mathew, Aston Matthews, Zac Nagle, Eleanor Shaw, Shaymaa Abdul-Al, Tolessa, Tolessa, Pinyi Su (not pictured), Tara Stojic (not pictured)
At the end of October, two teams of selected students from Year 5 and Year 6 travelled to EMS to take part in the final two Indoor Athletics Competitions.
The Year 6 team fought through the competition and were performing well, but play was suspended with three events to go due to the heavy rain. They returned to school not knowing where they had placed but when the final results were sent through, they had emerged as CHAMPIONS!
The Year 5 team got off to a strong start, and it was quickly apparent that they were dominating the competition. They emerged victorious with the best scores in the long jump, triple jump, vertical jump, shuttle run, and javelin throw! Doha College took GOLD in all 4 Indoor Athletics Competitions.
Year 5 Boys Football Team: Khalifa Pinnock, Elias Mwale, Hadley Vaughan, Elias Jan, Vishruth Mukesh, Rony Sobh, Michael Allam, Mateo Vazquez, Aariz Wani
Year 6 Boys Football Team: Harry Dickinson, Jonathan Mathew, Aston Matthews, Zac Nagle, Abdulla Mohammed, Abdallah Jarrah, Tolessa Tolessa, Daniyaal Malik, Oliver Martin, Nicholas Castro
The start of November saw the beginning of football fixtures. Two teams of boys travelled to the Year 5 and Year 6 tournaments at ASD. It was a tough afternoon, with some strong competition all around. The Year 6 team were commendable in their play, dominating the group stage and showing fantastic resilience in the face of adversity. The Year 5 boys fought hard to make it to the final and came away with second place and a silver medal!
Fantastic results and another proud moment for Doha College PE!
Competitive Sport at Doha College Primary
In line with our whole school vision for PE and sport at Doha College, we use talent identification to select students for competitions. All students are continually assessed during PE lessons and their Games lessons, giving every child an equal opportunity for selection for all events. Where students are identified in individual sports or events, they may be involved in additional Talent ID sessions which take place during Games, where PE teachers will look at them with a view to better informing team selection for intra-school events.
In a large Primary School like Doha College, with over 200 students per year group in KS2, competition for the 10 places on intra-school teams is challenging when so many children perform at such a high standard.
In order to ensure that we give every child at Doha College the opportunity to compete in sport at a high level, we hold competitive inter-house events at the end of every unit of work. At the end of this term, we will have our inter-house football tournaments happening for all children in KS2, which is something for the children to really look forward to!
Kate Prescott
Head of Primary PE and DC Lifestyles coordinator
This event, curated by the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, was a testament to the rich fusion of talent within our student body, drawing in an impressive array of over 180 submissions.
A hearty congratulations to the students who, with their artistic flair, superbly encapsulated this year's theme, ‘Celebrating Our Sisters’:
1st Place: Lamees Mohamed (Year 12)
2nd Place: Abdullah Azizi (Year 4 Green)
3rd Place: Vikaashinee Sukumaran Satish (Year 7 XT)
Each entry was a narrative of appreciation, shedding light on the pivotal roles played by influential black figures in our society. We salute all the entrants for their commitment to commemorating cultural heritage and diversity through their creativity.
He spoke with Year 10 and Year 11 Islamic Studies students and shared a presentation on Islamic Art and Design historically and in the modern world. Students were treated to a reel of Ruh's amazing work, which includes unique Arabic typography for well-known brands, including Netflix, Costa Coffee, the UN and many others.
The department also collaborated with the Art and Design Technology departments for a smaller workshop for Art and DT students, and al Alam explored the many possibilities for careers in these fields. Students had the opportunity to ask questions, and it was a great opportunity for them to engage with a leading artist and designer.
Abu-Huraira Rahman
Head of Islamic Studies
We extend immense gratitude to the dedicated FDC team, the hardworking DC staff, and every volunteer who poured their energy into making this event a success. Together, their efforts raised an astounding QAR 11,038, contributing to enhancing the learning experience at Doha College.
Our sponsors added an extra element of surprise by generously donating 21 vouchers for spas, high teas, and beauty salons, making the entire experience even more exciting. An extra special thank you goes to Manha, a talented year 10 photography student who captured the moments of the day.
For more information on the Friends of Doha College parent-led volunteer initiative - visit https://www.dohacollege.com/community/friends-of-doha-college
Witness the captivating Shahrazad weave narratives that promise to soften King Shahrayar’s heart, turning it from cold stone to one brimming with love, all through the mesmerising art of storytelling.
We extend our heartfelt wishes for success to the brilliant cast and the dedicated crew working their magic behind the curtains.
Tickets are still available, and we look forward to welcoming you to this fantastic production.
Cliodhna McAleer
Teacher of Drama