Week Seventeen - January 19th, 2024
Dear Parents,
Our students and teachers have been dynamic this week, so highlighting just a few events is not easy!
On Friday we enjoyed celebrating Arabic Language Day. What a beautiful occasion this was. Arabic coffee and dates were served in the morning, and we also enjoyed wonderful calligraphy, with students able to have their own name printed in cursive script. The pens in the photo below illustrate just how precise each letter can be. Learning how to write in Arabic is not a dull, utilitarian exercise – it has a function but also a beauty of itself and I am delighted that so many students understand this. Not only this, we also saw our Arabic teachers and teaching assistants provide engaging language exercises throughout the day. My thanks to Ms Wafaa, Mr Magid and all involved.
I would like to thank Ms Susan, Ms Aswathi, Ms Uma, Ms Daisy and especially our talented Grade 4 students for their superb ‘sustainable art project’ which now takes pride of place outside my office! I could not be happier than seeing the wall brightened up in such a meaningful way.
Congratulations to the PYP Swim Squad on their remarkable achievement of winning first place in one of the DASSA Competitions! The GIS team showcased their exceptional talent and skill in the pool, competing against four different schools (Repton Dubai, GEMS First Point, and Fairgreen International Competition). The team's dedication, hard work, and countless hours of practice have undoubtedly paid off.
This week some of our students participated in an amazing opportunity – the first ‘virtual’ Model United Nations event that we have seen. Our thanks to Ms Helen McTague for organizing this for the students. Our team topic was nuclear disarmament and the students enjoyed great success, as seen below:
Honorable Mention
Hiba H -Delegate of United Kingdom (G11)
Yusuf Bek E - Delegate of South Africa (G11)
Sanchita B - Delegate of Norway (G6)
Outstanding Delegate
Christian S - Delegate of China (G10)
Best Delegate
Krishnna P - Delegate of Japan (G11)
Here is what Grade 11 student, Yusuf Bek E, thought of the day: ‘I found the conference I recently attended to be an extraordinary approach to Model United Nations, one that was very formal, the environment was very professional, and like-minded students were dedicated to their resolutions and learning about MUN. I had a great time during the conference, I learned a lot of useful MUN skills, our chair was excellent and informative and I definitely had a really interesting time.’ Well said Yusuf and well done to all.
Kind regards and have a good weekend,
School Photography
Will commence on Monday for Grade 5 and Grade 4-F, please see schedule. The rest of PYP and Secondary will be on week commencing 29th Januray. As well as being available for families to purchase, these photos will feature in the yearbook. Students are expected to wear full GIS uniform, as usual. Students who have PHE on the day that is scheduled for them to have their photo taken should wear their uniform to school and pack their PHE kit to change into.
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It was a fun filled Friday morning of creativity, mingling with parents, soft music and good food. Thanks to the parents who joined us in the creative workshop of DeCoupage and to our workshop instructor Elmira who shared her knowledge of unique artistic techniques with patience.
Some of the captured from this moments are shared.
After a big successful turn out at our first breakfast at Paul, we look forward to seeing you all again. Please see flyer for more details.
International Day at GIS is always a powerful reminder of the diversity that makes up our school community. It is something the students, staff and parents look forward to every year, a day where we can enjoy and appreciate the different nationalities that call home. International Day provides an opportunity to build empathy, foster inclusivity, and celebrate the richness that comes from our differences.
In the UAE especially, International Day is special as much as it is important occasion in schools to showcase and celebrate the various cultures that contribute to vibrant tapestry of the country. The blending of traditions, cuisines, fashion and music from around the world reflects the inclusive and harmonious spirit of UAE. Organizing and participating in such events holds significant value for the community. It is an opportunity for people to hare their heritage, learn about others and foster a sense of unity and understanding.
We had over 35 countries taking part last year, we look forward to have more countries sign up this year.
Parents Activities Calendar
Friday 26/1
Breakfast at The Big Chill restaurant
Friday 2/2
Quilling workshop
Friday 23/2
International Day
Friday 1/3
Meditative Art workshop
Friday 8/3
Last breakfast before Ramadan commences, place to be confirmed
Please see below the current Slices menu. This will be updated in the newseltter every 4 weeks.
There is also information regarding PYP Classroom Delivery Service. For any queries on Slices, please call or WhatsApp Kervin from Slices on 050 504 5908
Kind reminder to ensure students accounts have enough credit loaded so they do not face issues purchasing food.
Slices are introducing themed menus on the following dates:
January 23rd (Tuesday): Mexican Menu
February 6th (Tuesday): Indian Menu
February 27th (Tuesday): Chinese Menu
March 19th (Tuesday): Italian Menu
Please click on the slide to view full menu. Kindly note that on these days, there will be no regular hot meals; instead, we'll be serving delicious options from the themed menu.