Head of Secondary School's Message 

Dear Parents & Guardians

Last Friday I had the pleasure of giving the Welcome Speech at the Grade 10 Completion Ceremony.  Our Grade 10 cohort have now officially completed their MYP journey, a five year journey for many, and one which culminated in the Personal Project Exhibition earlier this year. This cohort have impressed us throughout this year with their innovative ideas, passion for learning and willingness to get involved. I would like to thank Ms Irasa, Ms Sandy and Ms Sangita for the genuine care, guidance and support they have shown to this impressive group.

It was, however, back to business for the Grade 10’s when they returned to school on Monday when they commenced their Pre DP/CP courses. Throughout the week, (and into next), students joined the classes that they will officially start in August. They were exposed to sample DP exams, heard from current Grade 11’s who offered advice, and were introduced to the CP and DP jargon. All in all, the feedback has been very positive from both students and staff. 

As an all through IB school, student agency is something that we encourage and promote at every opportunity. This week saw the culmination of many months of hard work for one particular student in Grade 9. Ved Nakhwa brought a proposal to the Secondary academic leadership team earlier this year. His idea was to host an Entrepreneur project where students in Grade 8  had to create their own business centred on an artist or art piece they felt could solve a global problem of their choice. Throughout this week, Grade 8’s have embarked on this project with energy, enthusiasm and a healthy sense of competition! I would like to acknowledge the huge amount of work and dedication that Ved has invested in this project. We are so impressed with his dedication and ideas, and those that the Grade 8’s produced this week. It really is amazing to see what students can achieve when they are given the freedom to explore! 

Finally this week, I would like to draw attention to our amazing Art Department who entertained us throughout the week with various Art activities. Ms Mel, Ms Jessica, Mr Rick, Ms Irasa, Ms Emma and Ms Ellie did an amazing job in showcasing the awesome talent from MYP students. Students were treated to music and drama performances, a Film club, open art studio, and the wonderful GIS Has Talent. Congratulations to all students who were involved and who were risk takers this week. Performing in front of a crowd can be quite daunting for some, and your dedication is commended.

As part of the Arts Week celebrations, our Tareeqi students held a Superhero Fashion Show this morning. All students designed their own superhero, made a costume out of recycled materials and strutted down the catwalk to their favourite tune. I would like to thank our own GIS super heros (the Tareeqi Team), for the genuine care and support they provide each and every day.

As we head into the final week of the academic year, please note that there are optional PTC's for parents next Friday. Should you wish speak to a teacher, please email them directly to arrange a suitable time. 

I wish you a wonderful weekend ahead.

Kind regards

Amanda Murphy

Head of  Secondary School