Embedded Files
5th December 2024
A common response from parents when asked what their hopes and aspirations are for their children in the future is that they simply want their children to be happy.
In Russ Harris’s book The Happiness Trap, however, it is argued that our obsession with happiness can actually make people more unhappy - as happiness is a myth as life inevitably includes discomfort, pain, and negative emotions.. Harris argues that to live a more fulfilling life we need to change our relationship with our thoughts, emotions and behaviours.
Harris goes on to outline six key strategies that can help us to achieve this:
Cognitive Defusion - Learning to detach from thoughts rather than identifying with them. For example, instead of thinking "I am a failure," one could think "I am having the thought that I am a failure."
Acceptance - Allowing unpleasant emotions, thoughts, or bodily sensations to come and go, without trying to suppress or avoid them.
Present Moment Awareness - Focusing on the present moment, rather than ruminating about the past or worrying about the future.
Self-as-Context - Seeing oneself as a constant observer of one’s thoughts and feelings, rather than defining oneself by them.
Values - Identifying what truly matters, and using these values as a compass for one’s actions.
Committed Action - Taking practical steps toward living in line with one’s values, even when faced with difficult emotions or situations.
Have a wonderful weekend everyone.
David Tongue
Principal
KEY COMMUNICATION
KEY COMMUNICATION
Doha College International Day, Sunday, 15th December
Doha College International Day, Sunday, 15th December
On Sunday, 15th December, Doha College will celebrate International Day. All pupils, in Primary and Secondary, are invited to wear traditional dress or country colours and share traditional foods from their country with their classmates.
As per school policy, absolutely no nuts, nor nut products can be brought onto campus. Please ensure that all ingredients (whether homemade or shop bought) are listed in English. Primary pupils and parents will be invited to a class picnic, during either Period 1 or Period 6 following a costume parade. Secondary pupils will share this with their morning tutor groups.
Throughout the rest of the day, there will be performances, cultural activities, country stalls, costume parades and more!
Please ensure that all outfits worn are culturally appropriate and respectful of our community's values.
Maisie Hesketh
Primary Class Teacher and DEI Coordinator
Claire Rattary
Head of EYFS (Acting HOY) and Primary Class Teacher
“The language of clothing”- International Day Art Competition
“The language of clothing”- International Day Art Competition
Doha College invites all students to participate in our exciting International Day Art Competition! This year’s theme is “The Language of Clothing”, celebrating how clothing expresses identity, culture, and diversity.
Please use this form to submit your art pieces to the International Day art competition. We require everyone to write a short paragraph explaining their piece and how it relates to our theme “The language of clothing”. The winners will be decided by members of the DEI committee. You can make submissions of any medium, including mixed media.
Deadline: Sunday, 15th December 2024 (International Day)
Thank you,
Khansa Abbasi, Leyla Issack
DEI Prefects
Term 2 CCA Sign Up
Term 2 CCA Sign Up
Thank you for your engagement over Term 1. I trust your child enjoyed and benefited from our CCA programme, which concludes on Thursday, 5th December. We are pleased to inform you that sign up will open for Term 2 on Thursday, 5th December at 7.00 pm.
Thank you for your engagement over Term 1. I trust your child enjoyed and benefited from our CCA programme, which concludes on Thursday, 5th December. We are pleased to inform you that sign up will open for Term 2 on Thursday, 5th December at 7.00 pm.
Please note that there are no CCAs next week, except for the paid ones on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. If this applies to you, you will have already been notified.
Please note that there are no CCAs next week, except for the paid ones on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. If this applies to you, you will have already been notified.
For more information about Term 2 CCA sign-up, please refer to the letter below.
Annual Data Update Process
Annual Data Update Process
As part of our annual data update process, all parents will have received emails today to verify their child(ren)'s information on record with us.
It is important to ensure that the school records are accurate and up to date for all students. We kindly request you to review the content of the email and respond by Tuesday, 17th December 2024.
Please note that a Google account is required to fill out this form, as we are collecting sensitive documents such as Passport and ID copies.
If your registered email address with us is not a Google account, you will need to create a Google account using your existing non-Google email address. You might have already done this previously, as it is required for accessing the Curriculum Google site.
Here are the instructions for creating a Google account with a non-Gmail email.
Thank you for continued support.
Isac Thomas
Head of IT
Winter Themed Jumpers - 12th, 15th and 16th December
Winter Themed Jumpers - 12th, 15th and 16th December
As the weather gets colder, join us in staying toasty by wearing your winter-themed jumpers on Thursday, 12th December, Sunday, 15th December, and Monday, 16th December.
We look forward to seeing your warm and cosy jumpers!
DOHA COLLEGE GIVING TREE
DOHA COLLEGE GIVING TREE
A kind reminder about the Doha College Giving Tree and the donation boxes located in the Central Hub, Gate 4, and Gate 6. These boxes are dedicated to collecting contributions for our valued Security, Maintenance, and Catering staff, who work tirelessly to keep us safe, maintain a clean and well-functioning school, and ensure both staff and students are well-fed.
Your generosity and support in recognising their hard work is greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your contributions!
Qatar National Day Celebration, Tuesday, 17th December
Qatar National Day Celebration, Tuesday, 17th December
We are delighted to observe Qatar National Day on the last day of term, Tuesday, 17th December.
We aim to provide our students with a rich and immersive cultural experience. This event will showcase the vibrant traditions and heritage of Qatar, offering a unique opportunity for our students to engage with various aspects of Qatari culture. The day is a non-uniform day and students are encouraged to come dressed in Qatari National Dress or the colours of the Qatar Flag. Please ensure that your child wears culturally appropriate clothes.
MFL Departments (Primary and Secondary)
Designated Uber Pickup Points – Effective from Monday, 6th January 2025
Designated Uber Pickup Points – Effective from Monday, 6th January 2025
As part of our ongoing efforts to improve safety and traffic flow around the school, we are introducing designated pickup points for Uber, effective from the start of Term 2 on Monday, 6th January 2025.
The designated pickup points are as follows:
Vehicle Gate 2
Pedestrian Gate 4
Pedestrian Gate 6
Uber drivers will be informed of these arrangements by their management. However, we strongly encourage you to emphasise the importance of following these guidelines to your drivers and children. Failure to comply may result in drivers stopping in unsafe locations, which poses a risk to everyone.
While we will monitor and report any issues, our focus is on prevention rather than reactive measures.
If you have personal drivers, please ensure they adhere to the same arrangements.
Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our community safe.
Kelvin Busaka
Head of Health, Safety, and Special Projects
Spring Term Fee Invoice Reminder
Spring Term Fee Invoice Reminder
Spring term fee invoices have now been issued and emailed to parents. If you have not received your invoice or have any questions, please contact receivables@dohacollege.com.
A kind reminder that payment is due by Sunday, 5th January 2025.
Pamela Bell
Director of Finance
STUDENT SUCCESS
STUDENT SUCCESS
Beyond the classroom
Beyond the classroom
Outstanding Achievement at the U14 15-a-Side Rugby Tournament
Outstanding Achievement at the U14 15-a-Side Rugby Tournament
Our students made us proud at the recent U14 15-a-side rugby tournament, which brought together top teams from Muscat Pirates, Bahrain Rugby, and Doha Blue Falcons. Representing Doha Rugby, our players showcased exceptional skill, teamwork, and leadership.
1st Place – Doha Rugby Maroon: Leonidas McGrath (Captain), Oliver Bell, Ryan Kretzschmar
2nd Place – Doha Rugby Blue: Alexander Cameron
Their hard work and dedication are a testament to the strength of their sporting spirit. A huge congratulations to all involved on this outstanding achievement!
Isla’s Triathlon Triumph: Champion of the 14-15 Girls’ Division
Isla’s Triathlon Triumph: Champion of the 14-15 Girls’ Division
Isla delivered an incredible performance at the recent triathlon event, an initiative uniting young athletes from Bahrain, KSA, Qatar, the UAE, and Kuwait.
Competing in the 14-15 girls age group, Isla not only claimed first place but also emerged as the overall girls' champion — winning by an astounding margin of over 7 minutes!
Isla's hard work across all disciplines, especially her swimming and cycling, has truly paid off. This race was the second in a three-part series, with the final competition set to take place in KSA. With the best results out of three determining the series champion, Isla is in a strong position for overall success.
PRIMARY NEWS
PRIMARY NEWS
It was certainly a ‘Hard knock life’ in the primary school this week with the undoubted highlight of the week being the Year 6 Production of Annie Jr. across the week.
In pairs of classes, and over four separate productions, our Year 6 students transported us to 1930s New York City with their captivating performance of Annie Jr. What an unforgettable experience it was! The production was a testament to the incredible talent, resilience, and dedication of our students, and it left us all with smiles, laughter, and definitely feeling extremely proud of our students.
From the opening number to the encore performance, the children brought their characters to life with energy and confidence. The commitment they showed to rehearsals, line-learning, and stagecraft was evident in every scene. Whether playing the optimistic Annie, the larger-than-life Miss Hannigan, or the ever-so-charming Daddy Warbucks, each child shone brightly under the spotlights.
Equally impressive was the teamwork behind the scenes. From set design and costumes to sound and lighting, this production truly reflected the collaborative spirit of our school community. A special thank you goes out to the Year 6 teachers and staff, who guided and encouraged our students every step of the way. Their hard work ensured that the children could embrace the magic of theatre and develop skills they’ll carry with them for years to come. A special thank you to Mr Ewing who was the Director extraordinaire across all four shows.
Thinking about the message behind the show, Annie Jr. reminds us that even in challenging times, there is always hope. The song ‘Tomorrow’ was especially poignant, with its uplifting message that resonated deeply with everyone present. Watching our Year 6 students deliver this message with such heart and sincerity was a moment of great pride for all of us.
Thank you to all parents and families who supported the production, whether by, practicing lines at home, helping with singing duties or being part of the enthusiastic audience. Your support makes events like this possible.
Derek Watson
Senior Vice Principal - Head of Primary
SECONDARY NEWS
SECONDARY NEWS
As your children navigate their mock exams, I want to take a moment to acknowledge this important period in their academic journey and share some advice on how best to support them.
As our students complete their mock exams, I want to take a moment to share some encouragement and advice. These exams are an important milestone, but remember, they are just one part of their journey. I have written to them below; please share this with them.
Believe in Yourself
Believe in Yourself
You have worked hard to get here, and you have the ability to do your best. Trust in the effort you’ve put into your studies and let that confidence guide you through each paper.
Stay Focused and Positive
Stay Focused and Positive
Take one exam at a time. Staying calm and focused will help you make the most of what you’ve learned. If something feels challenging, take a deep breath, move forward, and remember: persistence is key.
Look After Yourself
Look After Yourself
Your well-being is just as important as your results. Make sure you’re getting enough rest, eating well, and finding time to relax between exams. A healthy mind and body make a big difference.
Learn from the Process
Learn from the Process
Mocks are a chance to understand your strengths and areas for improvement. Use this as a learning experience to prepare even better for the real exams.
Finally, remember that we are here for you. Your teachers and I are proud of the progress you’ve made, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Go into these exams with courage, determination, and the knowledge that your hard work will pay off. You’ve got this!
Jerome Scafe
Senior Vice Principal - Head of Secondary
SPORTS AT DC
SPORTS AT DC
PE FIXTURES AND RESULTS
PE FIXTURES AND RESULTS
UPCOMING FIXTURES
UPCOMING FIXTURES
Sunday, 8th December
Sunday, 8th December
2:30 – 3:30 pm: U19 Girls Football vs Sherborne (Away)
2:15 - 3:15 pm: U12 Boys QUESS Football vs Kings College (A Team Only) @ DC
2:15 - 3:15 pm: U13 Boys QUESS Football vs Kings College (A Team Only) @ DC
Monday, 9th December
Monday, 9th December
10:00 - 4:30 pm: QPPSSA Girls U8 Football Finals @ AKIS
10:00 - 4:30 pm: QPPSSA Girls U11 Football Finals @ AKIS
3:00 – 4:00 pm: U13 QUESS Netball (A Team) vs Swiss @ DC
2:30 – 3:30pm: U16 Boys QUESS Football vs Sherborne @ DC
Tuesday, 10th December
Tuesday, 10th December
9:00 – 1:00pm: U8/U9/U10/U11 Cross-Country @ Oxygen Park
3:00 – 5:00pm: U13 Boys QUESS Football vs GEMS Wellington (A Team ) @ GEMS Wellington School - Qatar
RESULTS
RESULTS
Sunday, 1st December
Sunday, 1st December
U12 Netball (B Teams) vs GEMS (GEMS No Show)
U14 Netball (B Teams) vs GEMS (DC won 20-18)
Monday, 2nd December
Monday, 2nd December
U12 Boys QUESS Football @ AKIS (DC Beat in 1/4 Finals on penalties)
Tuesday, 3rd December
Tuesday, 3rd December
U12 Girls QUESS Football @ AKIS (DC Winners)
U13 Boys QUESS Football vs DESS (A Team) (DC Won 2-1)
U14 Boys QUESS Football vs Swiss International (A Team) (DC won 7-0)
U10 QPPSSA Netball Tournament @ DESS (DC 3rd)
U11 QPPSSA Netball Tournament @ DESS (DC 3rd)
Wednesday, 4th December
Wednesday, 4th December
U11 Girls QPPSSA Netball @ DESS (Bronze Medal)
U10 Girls QPPSSA Netball @ DESS (Bronze Medal)
COMMUNITY UPDATES
COMMUNITY UPDATES
Join Us for the Inaugural DCAN Golf Day!
Join Us for the Inaugural DCAN Golf Day!
Join us for our inaugural DCAN Golf Day. Catch up with friends and colleagues or meet new people who share your passion for Golf and all things DC! Win prizes and be entered into our luxury raffle on the day.
When: February 15th
Where: Doha Golf Club
Who: Doha College Community - so alumni, parents, and staff. Over 18s only.
What: 9 holes followed by Sips and Slices or Burgers and Brews!
Why: For fun and to raise funds for Doha College Sport and Science facilities.
Price: 1000 QAR p.p
Sign up and save your spot here: https://forms.gle/mdag7QtNjMCvMhXe7
Have a question? Email rarora@dohacollege.com
Rashmi Arora
Development Alumni & Events Officer
CALLING ALL DOHA COLLEGE FS2 PARENTS! COME MAKE A SPLASH WITH EVO!
We believe that swimming is not just a skill, but a lifelong journey that fosters confidence, discipline, and a love for the water.
Our programmes are designed to be inclusive, offering tailored instruction to meet the unique needs of each swimmer, regardless of age or ability. We support continuous growth and development, starting with fundamental water safety and basic skills, and progressing to advanced techniques for those aspiring to compete at higher levels.
To take advantage of this free swim session click the link here and complete the form:
Sunday, 8th December 2024 | 14:05-15:00
Swimming attire needed for the free FS2 Swim Sessions:
Swimming costume/trunks
Swimming hat and goggles
Clean poolside shoes
Towel
Please note that all children should be picked up by their parent(s) after school and escorted to the Primary Swimming Pool. Kindly be aware that spaces are limited.
Thank you,
Elizabeth McGowan
Director of Coaching - Swimming
emcgowan@evosportsqatar.com
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