Week four - September 24th 2020
Dear Parents,
This week we have seen ‘goal setting conferences’ in our Primary and Secondary School. I have been impressed by the reflections of our students and also their ambitions, crystallized by the teachers and agreed with parents. Thank you to our teachers, parents and students for putting time into this useful process.
We all hope that our older students will be an example to the younger members of the school. I am pleased by what I have seen so far and would like to commend the Grade 12 students for the way they have been conducting themselves, not only in the classroom but by their manner around the school. Today it was a privilege to be invited to the Grade 12 Theory of Knowledge presentations, which took place in the DP Lounge. What a superb session it was and Mr Robert Norris and Ms Mariona Coderch deserve a huge thank you for preparing the students so well. The students themselves were impeccably behaved, supporting their peers enthusiastically and listening intently to each presentation. Titles ranged from, ‘The manipulation of data is a threat to our freedom of thought’, through to ‘To what extent is the production of knowledge a collaborative task?’, to ‘The heart versus the brain’ and ‘The reliability of memory’. Students showed immense courage to talk in-depth and on such profound themes in front of all their peers and teachers. Well done all!
Mr Ruairi alongside his amazing DP students preparing for their TOK presentations.
This week also saw the return of the staff ‘My Health’ programme, which follows professional development sessions, after school on Tuesdays. I thank Mr Barry McHugh for organising this so meticulously. It was pleasing to see that all staff participated and placed value on their wellbeing, whether physical or mental. The range of activities was impressive, from football, badminton and high intensity work outs, through to cooking, meditation, art, zumba and more. I would like to thank every volunteer leader for agreeing so quickly to help. This showed excellent community spirit and benefited everyone. While tempted by the sports on offer, I opted for Mr Magid’s ‘Beginners’ Arabic’ and have started the linguistic journey into this fascinating language and culture – شكرا Moa'alim Magid!
Our students have now adjusted to the school’s requirements during the pandemic and are observing all protocols very well. As I glance at today’s Khaleej Times, I can see a useful reminder to all readers in the top left corner: 1. Use a mask 2. Wash hands with soap 3. Maintain social distance 4. Avoid parties and gatherings.
Finally, I hope that you will not need to read this, but if you or our family do have to go through quarantine again, here is a handy guide produced by the DHA.
I wish you a safe and happy weekend,
Kind Regards,
Simon Herbert