Welcome to Week 5!

I am so proud of the effort of our young people this week. Most of them have faced MAP and possibly CAT4 tests over the last 5 days. While a challenging week, in chatting to students, it is obvious that they participated to the best of their ability. Well done all! The data from these tests will be used by teachers to inform teaching to ensure that each student is on track to achieve their academic goals.

To balance the academic pressure from the testing, we introduced a serious of MYP Core workshops where the focus was on Digital Citizenship, ATL Skills and Service as Action. As well as these workshops students participated in team building activities and a House Focus day on Tuesday. For the first time in almost two years we were able to have each grade in the MPH for grade assemblies. It was so nice to gather in groups again where we could celebrate student achievements and House point tallies! Thanks must go to Mr Nic, the Grade Level Leaders and all teachers who ensured that the activities were entertaining and relevant to our students.

The process is also underway to decide the new StuELT for 2021/22. Taleen and Neila spoke at the assemblies this week to discuss the process with all grades and they have shared more information below for those interested students. Prior to my arrival at GIS, many staff spoke highly of the student leadership at our school, and I have to agree, I have been nothing but impressed with each Committee's organisation, maturity and dedication. We really are very fortunate. I would however encourage some of our male students to take a risk by nominating themselves for some of the available positions.

This week Mr Simon and I were fortunate enough to be invited to morning tea at our new Tareeqi centre. I want to thank Amber, Ahmad, Reyansh and Ali for the delicious cookies, brownies and coffee/tea which they prepared for us. It really was the highlight of my week!

For those Parents & Guardians with children in the MYP, Ms Sandy Trull, has written a piece on assessment practices and the Grade 5 to 6 transition. Please access the document through this link.

Finally, a reminder that this week marks the deadline for students to be in correct uniform. However, we are aware that there have been some issues with supply. Should your child still not have access to correct uniform by Sunday, please provide a note from Threads regarding this. We ask that if this is the case, your child presents to school in smart clothing; hoodies and sports pants are not considered smart clothing. Thank you for your support with this.

Amanda Murphy

Head of Secondary