As you will be aware, the recent events have caused some concern across DC and the wider community. Whilst there will be varying levels of understanding, these events can be especially difficult for our young learners.
In times like this, I am reminded of the strength and unity of our Doha College community. Our staff have responded with calm professionalism and deep care, creating a safe, reassuring environment for the children. Teachers have taken time to gently check in with pupils, answer questions in an age-appropriate way, and ensure that the routines of the day offer a sense of stability and normality. Standing on the gate this morning, it was heart warming to see so many children return to school with a smile on their faces and I am so grateful for the kind words from those I spoke to. .
In addition, we have also seen the community come together with kindness and support. Parents have reached out to one another, families have been checking in with staff, and children have shown remarkable resilience and empathy. It is in these moments that our values truly shine.
Please know that we are here for you and your children. If any member of your family needs additional support or someone to talk to, our pastoral and safeguarding teams are ready to help.
Thank you for your continued trust and for being such an important part of the Doha College family. Together, we will always prioritise the wellbeing and sense of security of every child in our care.
Derek Watson
Senior Vice Principal - Head of Primary
With this in mind, we are delighted to introduce the Junior Duke Award—a programme designed to help children from ages 3 to 13 develop a wide range of life skills and broaden their understanding of the world around them. Junior Duke This will replace the current Moving On Up Award which currently takes place in Year 6.
The Junior Duke Award is structured across ten progressive levels, each tailored to a specific year group. Through these levels, students will be encouraged to take on a variety of engaging challenges, from First Aid, ICT, and Eco Awareness to Drama, Music, Sport, and practical life skills such as cookery and basic repairs. We will start this in Years 5 and 6 for the next academic year.
While some skills will be introduced at school, many of the challenges are designed to be completed with the support of family and friends outside the classroom. This approach not only reinforces learning but also encourages valuable family engagement.
Upon completion of each level, students will be awarded a certificate and badge in recognition of their hard work and perseverance within the academic year.
The children will be introduced to this in an assembly next week, so I would encourage you to ask them their thoughts.
We look forward to giving you more information at the start of the next academic year.
Ondrea McSwiggan
Head of MFL Primary & Director of Co-Curricular Activities
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