Embedded Files
Week Seven - October 15th 2020
From the Head of School's Desk
From the Head of School's Desk
Dear Parents,
After another successful visit from KHDA inspectors, we received some good news - our Early Years playground can be reopened for our youngest learners! We shall observe strict sanitizing measures and ensure that only one ‘bubble’ of children use a specific piece of equipment each day. Despite the restrictions, this is a great step forward and we are delighted, as I am sure the children will be! This reflects the huge confidence placed by KHDA on our MSO, Mr. Ranjit Menon, and his Operations Team at GIS.
Today also marks the final day at GIS for our loyal Supervisor of School Facilities, Mr. Prem Puri. We would all like to thank Prem for his conscientious and cheerful approach at all times. He will be greatly missed!
On the subject of restrictions, I would like to bring to your attention a message that came to all Principals yesterday from KHDA and the Dubai Health Authority and which I shall share with you, regarding travel during the mid-term break. It is in blue below:
We would like to remind you about the requirements for joining on-campus teaching or learning following travel abroad:
· All students and staff must declare their recent travel history by completing the DHA form online: https://www.dha.gov.ae/en/Pages/coronaregistration.aspx
· Schools must keep these declarations on file.
· All students and staff who have returned from travel abroad require a negative PCR test with a 48-hour validity, in order to resume learning/working at school.
· Students who do not have a negative PCR test result with a 48-hour validity will be required to access distance learning for 14 days from their arrival date.
· Students who would like to resume on-campus learning without completing their 14-day quarantine, should produce a negative PCR test.
Additionally, please note that PCR test results are valid for 48 hours only from the date of result. The PCR test may be completed at Dubai airport or any approved DHA facility within the Emirate.
On a lighter note, Mr. Hole and his Secondary School Team have led the way in encouraging students to enjoy Spirit Week. This has been a chance to dress down, to support each other and raise money for Student Leadership projects for the forthcoming year. My favourite was ‘Switcheroo Thursday’ which saw students dressed as teachers and vice versa. In the photos below, see if you can spot two new students, Mr. Jake and Ms. Romien, and a new teacher, Mr. Maxim!
In the middle of all the ongoing academic work, our students are still dedicating themselves to other interests too, which we support wholeheartedly. In the photo to the left, you will see Neila B (Grade 11) and her wonderful Arabic calligraphy, which won her an award within the department. You can see this beautiful piece of artwork in our main lobby area.
Finally, it was my privilege to award the second ‘Head of School’s Commendation’ of the term. Ms. Henderson was quick to tell me how proud she was of a student in Grade 7C. Omar A stepped in quickly to help a new student, offering to translate and interpret for him on the Physics concepts being discussed in the lesson. Omar exemplified at least three of our IB learner profile values: caring, risk-taking and knowledgeable. Well done, Omar!
I wish you a safe, restful and happy mid-term break.
Kind Regards,
Simon Herbert
Click here for Primary School News
Click here for Primary School News
Click here for Secondary School News
Click here for Secondary School News
Registration for academic year 2021/2022 is now open for sibling priority.
Registration for academic year 2021/2022 is now open for sibling priority.
Click HERE to begin the application process.
Click HERE to begin the application process.
Gate 8 (side gate) will close promptly at 8:15am each morning.
Gate 8 (side gate) will close promptly at 8:15am each morning.
Late students will need to access gate 4 to enter school.
Late students will need to access gate 4 to enter school.
GIS Community
GIS Community
SAVE THE DATE! November 4th @ 11:30am
We would love to hear from your. Join us for a virtual coffee, meet new friends and exchange ideas to make our school the best it can be!
Do you have a special day in your country that you would like to celebrate? Come and speak to GISPA and we can work something out together as a community - gispa@gemsisak.com
Booked tables for last year's Spring Carnival
Parents who have paid for tables at the Spring Carnival can collect their money from the finance department. Deadline for collection on 30th December 2020
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