Executive Head's News: June 28th, 2020

Momentum

As the Summer term draws to a close, and with it, the Academic Year 2019/20, one cannot avoid reflecting on the journey that the BSB Community has been on over the last few months. Seldom in the School's 25-year history has it endured so much, and developed to such an extent, as it has over this Summer term.

This term has been one where hard work, innovation and collaboration has been the basis on which we have built the momentum needed to continue to develop the BSB Virtual Learning Environment. Through this energy and dedication to succeed, we have seen the School grow and evolve at an astounding rate. However, to sustain any momentum, it is also crucial that those that it relies upon take a break and rest, as required. This summer holiday will be essential for the students, staff and especially parents to relax and utilise the time without the demands of live lessons and online learning. It will be a time to develop interests, to read for pleasure, and to catch up with friends and family, albeit remotely.

For many of the School community, the new academic year will also bring with it new adventures. For some, this time of year will be a farewell to good friends and the School in general. I believe that one of the strengths of BSB is its inclusive community, and this has undoubtedly been evident during this time of lockdown. No matter where you are in the world, we will always value the students and staff that have been with us this year. While some may move away from BSB, they will always be part of the School's history and part of its success, and therefore we will always welcome them back.

Of course, for our Year 13 students, this current situation has precluded them from a much-deserved graduation celebration. This week they can have their photographs taken at the School, but we most look forward to December when a fitting event will be permissible, and the many achievements of this talented cohort will be recognised. It will also be a perfect opportunity to hear how their first terms at universities or within their careers have been.

The resumption of schooling in September will build upon the momentum harnessed at this time. This year, BSB has continued to develop its academic and pastoral provision through its real-time teaching while maintaining its core values of excellence, individuality and responsibility. Academic excellence has been balanced with strong pastoral care for every individual student and their family. These are the elements that allowed us to establish our virtual learning environment, and these are the elements that will continue to be nurtured when the BSB campus doors reopen. It is this momentum that will remain in perpetuity.

I hope very much that my next 'Executive Headmaster's blog' will be written from a fully opened and safe BSB campus in September. Until that time, I would like to thank all of the BSB staff, the students and the parents for everything that they have done this term. I wish everybody associated with BSB, a safe, healthy and relaxing summer holiday.

Good luck to all though embarking on new adventures. Stay safe and healthy to all of the BSB Community.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: June 21st, 2020

For my penultimate blog of this academic year, I would like to reflect on the journey the BSB Community has been on over the last six months. This quote from Carl Jung is quite apt as he himself lived through two world wars and the Spanish Influenza pandemic that gripped Europe from 1918 to 1919. Were he alive today, Dr Jung would undoubtedly recognise the emotional challenges facing populations around the world at this time.

In March of this year, I wrote that I felt the community had begun to realise that an outstanding school is more than merely the buildings that it occupies. The months since then, have only gone further to reinforce this point. While some other schools around the world have struggled with the transition required to maintain education in an online environment and provide real-time teaching, BSB instead has thrived in this new dimension of learning. For me, it is clear that it is the school community that makes our school outstanding, and it is this that has enabled us to adapt so well to a new way of learning. Of course, the journey has not been one without its bumps, but innovation and development is seldom an easy route.

I believe that three core elements make our school what it is; the students, the staff, and the parents. All three have played an incalculable part in the success of the Virtual Learning Environment, and I am sure will continue to make the school a success when our doors open once more.

The BSB teachers have been inspirational in every regard during this time; not only in their professional duties but also in the way that they have supported each other. This collegiate mentality has seen them collaborate to resolve challenges with teaching, while also continuously improving the BSB online learning provision and showing support for every student in their personal and academic development.

At the core of everything that we have done is the individual child. The support and provision the School has designed have been shaped around the educational and emotional needs of our students. In true BSB fashion, the pupils themselves have risen to every challenge presented to them, and in turn, they have been pivotal in the ongoing success of our virtual school. They have made us laugh, made us smile, inspired us, and given us the resolve to keep going. The students have shown real resilience and determination during a time of so much flux in their lives.

The BSB parents cannot be thanked enough for their engagement, good humour, charity and for everything they have done during this time. The learning of all the children has only been possible through the support and guidance given to them by their parents. Homes across Bahrain, and even the world, have been transformed into virtual BSB classrooms with parents encouraging their families to engage with the learning on offer, being there for the students during their struggles and being part of their successes. We recognise the challenges that this situation has presented to every family and thank all the BSB parents for their care and dedication.

To conclude, this is, hopefully, a journey that will end in August as the doors to our campus open once more. However, the warmth, care, dedication and commitment of every parent has been overwhelming. The students have had the ‘raw material’ of curriculum nurtured within them; however, it is the warmth and support from their teachers and especially from their families that has seen them grow.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: June 14th, 2020

“There are decades where nothing happens, and there are weeks where decades happen.”

Vladimir Ilyich Lenin

This quote could easily have been written about the first six months of 2020. If I think back to early January, I remember writing about ‘Change’ and the need not to fear it, but possibly even embrace it. Never could I have forecast how much change there would be within each of our lives. It has been such a turbulent time, and every aspect of our ordinary day to day routines have been altered in some way. Daily we awake to news about adjustments to the rules and regulations that currently govern our lives and even more news hypothesising what might change in the future. This level of uncertainty can be somewhat unsettling and requires us all to draw upon our values to maintain our resolve and determination.

There are, of course, some aspects of our global society that do still need to change. The protests and campaigns seen around the world are a testament to this. Too little has ‘happened over the last decades’, and within the last few weeks, we are seeing some countries try to resolve these injustices and make the changes that are needed within those societies. Diversity, Equality and Tolerance are core values within the BSB ethos, and we strive to develop them within the entire BSB Community. They are central to our belief in what is needed to nurture the future leaders within a global society. I like to believe that the generations of BSB graduates who access the best universities and careers around the world, take with them these BSB values and each does their part to address social imbalances where they see them.

The School community’s compassion to support one another has never been more pertinent that at this time. The week just gone has been emotionally and physically challenging for many of us. Yet it has also brought out the very best aspects of those associated with BSB. The response from colleagues to support one another has been overwhelming, and the collective strength of the staff has been positive. The BSB parents have been incredibly generous in the words of thanks, support, and in their charitable gifts for the staff most affected. This parental response has provided further strength during a testing time. Of course, we all entered this profession to nurture children in their academic and pastoral development. Seeing all the students responding to the care and support given to them has been a source of immense pride for me. The children are, of course understandably sad, but within each of them, we see a determination to succeed and to do well.

As we enter the final three weeks of this academic year, we recognise that this time is undoubtedly one that will go down in BSB’s long history. We have made tremendous progress in so many areas and have seen developments that have revolutionised our provision and pedagogy. However, at our core is still the compassionate, tolerant, supportive community that nurtures every individual and develops within them the values that will see them succeed in later life. This has not changed, I believe it has always been present, but perhaps it took times like these for us to recognise it.

I wish everyone associated with BSB a very happy and healthy week.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: June 7th, 2020

Executive Head's News: May 31st, 2020

The news this week that the Bahrain Government is planning for schools to return to campus-based education in September is undoubtedly welcomed by the entire BSB community. While there are still a critical five weeks of this academic year remaining, it is good to have a focal point, a light at the end of this tunnel, so to speak, for us to work towards. The school is thriving with online learning, but we all long to see the friendly faces of students and parents on the BSB site.

The last twelve weeks of our virtual learning environment have seen us develop as a school in numerous ways. Quite rightly, the core principle within the BSB VLE has been to prevent the current global situation impacting any pupil’s education. But our provision has aspired to be much more than this. This ambition our online pedagogy, our personalised attention to every student and our increased pastoral care. In nurturing our core provision, we have also developed more broadly as a school. When we return to our campus, in September, we will be in a significantly better position than when we left in February.

Within the establishment of our Virtual Learning Environment, we immediately focussed on ensuring that education continued for all students. Following this, with the support of all parents, we have continued to develop our educational provision and the BSB online pastoral programme. The continued expansion of our virtual extra-curricular activities, as well as more form time and pastoral engagement, will see all pupils continue to develop their character and ethos alongside the development of their knowledge. The essential part now is that all students maintain a very high attendance. While it may be possible to catch up on knowledge and understanding, the other aspects of an outstanding education take time to nurture. I ask all parents to ensure that their family attends virtual school fully until we can return to an open campus.

While I understand the sentiment of Henry Ford, I also believe that his statement is outdated. It is based on an educational context reliant heavily on memorisation and examination. Regrettably, this does still persist in some schools; however, within outstanding schools, pupils develop the skills and character needed to succeed in the future, not just in the examinations. These schools place equal value on the qualitative aspects of education as much as the quantitative. It is not just about what students are taught, it is about the values and ethos instilled within all pupils, through the culture of the educational establishment that they attend.

This forthcoming week we see the launch of the ambitious BSB independent study project and BSB Enrichment programme for all Year 11 and Year 13 students. These courses will enhance every pupil’s independent 21st Century study skills while allowing them to explore a topic of personal interest. All students will be better prepared for the next course of study whether this is in the BSB 6^th Form or at University. The series of lectures being put on by BSB staff reflects the talents and interests of our teachers. It is excellent to see BSB’s culture of a love of learning and enrichment beyond the confines of the examination courses.

We cannot predict the future, and we hope that the global route to recovery socially, medically and economically continues. However, we can be sure that the BSB community have developed the resilience and perseverance to be able to cope with whatever ‘the world is going to do next year’. This is the mark of an outstanding education and one which BSB will continue to offer.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: May 27th, 2020

Executive Head's News: May 17th, 2020

Parent Survey - May 2020

Since joining the British School of Bahrain, I have been encouraged by the engagement and positivity of the BSB parents. One aspect of taking over the Headmaster role of a school with over 3000 students is that this means there are over 5000 parents. For most people this might be a daunting aspect of any school, however, the BSB parents are one of the key aspects of the success of the school and help to make it an outstanding educational establishment. They are an integral part of BSB, a valued part of the wider school community and I enjoy receiving comments, thoughts, and messages of praise for the staff on a daily basis. Last week we asked BSB parents to complete the Inspired Survey of Virtual Learning Environments and the level of response was very pleasing with parents in all year groups taking the time to complete the questions and to write their comments.

The results of the Survey were published last Thursday, and the school’s Senior Leadership Team discussed them at length. I have the pleasure of attaching the summary of the survey with comments provided by the School. Whilst we believe that the school is working exceptionally hard, being innovative and developing all students, it is always reassuring to see this opinion reflected in the responses by the parents to the questionnaire.

Overall, 90% of BSB parents are satisfied with our Virtual Learning Environment, with the majority of parents (59%) either ‘quite’ or ‘very’ satisfied. This is a great basis on which to continue to build our provision now and, in the future when the BSB campus reopens. Of course, there are some aspects of our provision that we need to continue to develop and this will be our focus over the forthcoming weeks. Furthermore, over 400 BSB parents provided suggestions and ideas for how our Virtual Learning Environment can be improved. These will be analysed and discussed, and I hope to be able to report back to parents soon with our plans to implement these initiatives.

Thank you once again for your support during this chapter in the school’s history.

I look forward to updating all parents with further developments.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: May 10th, 2020

Last week across Europe, countries celebrated the 75^th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in the European theatre of conflict. The 8^th of May 1945, commonly known as VE Day (Victory in Europe) was a time of relief and rejoicing for many, of course for others it was also a time for grieving lost loved ones. 75 years later and the weekend just past saw events that both reflected the celebration and remembrance of 1945 and allowed people to show their gratitude for a generation that sacrificed so much to ensure that global peace could prevail.

Aligned to this sentiment the media has been evoking a spirit often associated with the Second World War and it is quite apt that during this time of lockdown, we are recognising the heroic efforts of past generations through the VE Day celebrations. Just like in 1945, global political leaders today are frequently delivering messages of hope and determination during these testing times. 75 years ago, King George VI delivered a poignant speech on VE day to a relieved and joyous population. Part of this speech is relevant to the present day and brings hope and reassurance at this time, as it did back then.

“Today we give thanks for a great deliverance… but at this hour, when the dreadful shadow has passed from our hearths and homes, we may, at last, make one pause for thanksgiving.

With these memories in our minds, the knowledge that everything was at stake: our freedom, our independence, our very existence as a people.”

Unlike VE Day in 1945, it is doubtful that there will be any one specific day when we can rejoice as the end of the ‘battle’, we currently face with COVID-19, is concluded. It is more likely that there will be a gradual easing of the restrictions placed on our lives as the threat of COVID-19 is contained. There will be no celebrations, no specific date, no ‘VC day’ so to speak.

1939-1945 was, of course, a very different time and one we cannot comprehend, even now. The debt we owe this generation is enormous and must never be forgotten. However, one aspect that is similar between now and then is that following the Second World War, society changed and did not return to pre-wartime life. We all hope that our time combatting COVID-19 will also see improvements in our lives and a return to a better society, one that is more connected, more caring, and one that prioritises the environment, health and family above all else.

Have a wonderful 10^th week of online learning.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: May 4th, 2020

Executive Head's News: April 26th, 2020

For many of the BSB Community, this time of year is a time to reflect on what our priorities are in our lives, a time to strip away the excess and focus on what really matters. This is an important process and one which makes us all better as individuals. The first four months of this year has of course been very different for all of us, and in fact, for many of us, the process of self-reflection began as our lives became increasingly impacted, both directly and indirectly, by the COVID-19 pandemic. All around the world people are using their time in isolation for contemplation, reflection and confirmation of their values and priorities. One thing that the current global situation is doing is motivating us all to clarify what is really important now and what will be important in the future for ourselves and our families.

To quote a famous 1980s song: “If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make a change”. The process of reflecting on one’s actions, motivations and values are always important for all of us. Individual actions and improvements to the way we lead our lives are fundamental to building our community. This is perhaps most important at this time, where the actions of individuals impact the lives of all of us. Equally, a lot of us are looking ahead to the time when a degree of normality can return to our lives. The key question is what will this new ‘norm’ look like? Will we return to our previous existence or will we have used this time to reflect and change ourselves for the better?

The success of the BSB Virtual School Environment has been built on reflection. As we embark on our eighth week of online schooling, we can take time to look back on how our provision has developed over the last two months. Innovation is only possible when people are willing to reflect on the current status quo and to challenge the norm. Our online learning provision continues to evolve through the hardworking BSB staff who are willing to not only reflect on existing practices but also embrace innovation and the need for progress. Constructive feedback from parents and students, combined with the ingenuity of the staff, allows us to keep improving; this is reflection at its best.

I will certainly make sure that I reflect on my own values over the next month. How I can improve my generosity to those less fortunate, how I can be more tolerant and more forgiving when situations demand, and how I can improve the community through my actions. This is a time for gratitude for what we have, and for reflecting on what we can do better.

I wish everyone associated with BSB, peace at this time and also the strength to remain focussed on enduring the restrictions needed to protect ourselves and our community. We will get through this episode in our lives and we will be stronger for it. Take time to reflect on what is important in your life and focus on the future.

Ramadan Kareem.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: April 19th, 2020

“And so, with the sunshine …. I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.”

The Great Gatsby

We embark on the Summer Term in much the same way as we left the Spring Term. But as I write my blog, I truly hope that with this summer, daily life within Bahrain will start to begin over again and we can return to the normality that we all long for.

The excellent BSB Virtual Learning Environment will continue to educate all students whilst the BSB campus remains closed. We are rightly proud of what the BSB community has achieved over the last 7 weeks, however, we do not intend to rest upon our laurels and we will continue to strive to improve our provision; working with our students and parents to ensure all students make progress and education does not suffer at this time.

This term will certainly present challenges and opportunities and it will be important to greet both with the same resilience, ingenuity and collaboration that has been seen throughout the Spring Term. While virtual schooling has taught us so much, one aspect of BSB that cannot be replicated and that we all miss at the moment are the personal interactions with students. We especially long to hear laughter again fill the BSB classrooms, corridors and playgrounds. Please keep sending in work, thoughts, messages and ideas; they are greatly appreciated by all the BSB staff. I also encourage all students to submit their screenshot of themselves on their BlueJeans account to virtualschool@thebsbh.com. We look forward to creating our lasting memory of this time and to look back on the event as a milestone in BSB’s history.

With the start of the Summer Term, hopefully life is beginning over again, and we can see the end of the current situation. Until that time, please keep engaged with the virtual school. Our campus may still be closed, but we are certainly fully open for learning.

I wish the entire BSB community a very productive, happy and safe Summer Term.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: April 5th, 2020

Executive Head's News: March 29th, 2020

The Blitz Spirit

The developments around the world over this last week, have frequently been compared by the news agencies to countries being at war. Of course, this time we are at war with an invisible enemy, and one that does not discriminate about its targets. All around the world limitations and restrictions are rightly being put on people’s lives, the likes of which many countries, especially the UK, have not seen since 1939.

Perhaps a slightly lesser known speech of Churchill’s, is one he gave when asked to speak at a school’s end of year graduation, or Speech Day as it is known in the UK. It might be an urban myth, but nevertheless it makes a good story. It came to the time in the proceedings, once all the prizes had been distributed, when Churchill was called upon to give his guest of honour speech. The great man approached the podium and the tension rose within the hall; you can imagine the anticipation within the audience. The entire school community sat with bated breath, waiting to hear what Churchill had to say. The story has it, that he gave his speech, but what shocked the audience, was not its content but its brevity; for Churchill said just three words: NEVER GIVE UP.

I don’t know if the story is true, I hope it is, but actually it doesn’t really matter either way. Within these three words, Churchill had condensed his entire life’s ethos. For me, this speech contains all that we need at this time, during the global COVID-19 pandemic. I always gain strength from these three simple words and I ask you to keep this sentence at the forefront of your mind over the forthcoming days and weeks.

In everything we do this week, and over the course of this pandemic, always seek to do our best, never let anyone give up.

Never give up keeping safe.

Never give up keeping isolated.

Never give up keeping healthy.

Never give up washing your hands.

Most importantly, never give up being positive and looking to the future.

Together, we will get through this time, I actually believe we may even come out of it stronger as a society. But in order to do so it will require each and every one of us to Never Give Up.

To all the BSB community, I hope that you keep safe and well this week.

N.B. I had hoped to deliver this as a video, inspired by the outstanding teachers and students, within BSB, who are making such wonderful videos as part of our excellent Virtual School Environment. However, I encountered some technical difficulties which prevented me from creating it on time. True to my own advice not to give up, I will endeavour to send a video greeting to all students this week ahead of the Spring holidays.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: March 22nd, 2020

“If things are going untowardly one month, they are sure to mend the next.”

Jane Austin

I naively sat to write my blog last week and thought “I think next week might be quieter”. Looking back, I now realise that I couldn’t have been further from the truth. Whilst the Kingdom of Bahrain seems to be managing the COVID-19 situation well, other parts of the world are in a vicious spin. The daily news last week saw frequent changes, with each one unsettling us, as a community, that little bit more.

This week brings the month of March nearer to its conclusion and we all want the quote from Jane Austin to be true to our current predicament. As I reflect on the last month, I am stunned by how rapidly the local and global situation has changed. It is human nature for such dramatic changes to bring with it, unease and instability. However, I also look back on this last month and see there are many things that we should take reassurance from.

The entire BSB community has achieved so much in such a short space of time. Through energy, positivity and drive, the BSB staff have developed a provision that supports every students’ education and continued development. Equally, the students have played their part through their hard work, dedication, resilience and commitment. In equal measure, I commend all the BSB parents for their role within our story of success. Through their hard work, patience, tolerance and commitment, we have continued to shape and mould the online learning provision. No one aspect could have made the BSB Virtual School Environment the success that it currently is; it needed all parts to work together.

The collective efforts of the community are strong enough to overcome all obstacles. To paraphrase: “the whole community is much stronger than the individual parts”. We all must continue to do our individual best to contribute to resolving this situation. Through this we will not only continue to support and nurture the best out of each other, but we will actually continue to improve.

We all hope that April brings less turbulence and more stability.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: March 15th, 2020

“Never tell people how to do things, tell them what outcome you want, and they will surprise you with their ingenuity”

General George S Patton

Surprises

This week there have been many surprises, which have made our daily lives as turbulent as ever. Within my house, my eldest daughter’s newly purchased ‘male’ hamster giving birth to four pups was quite a surprise to all involved! Thankfully all are doing well, being cared for and looked after, albeit only until they are old enough to be returned to the pet shop, accompanied with a few stiff words of advice on customer service.

Of course, the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus across the world and especially within Europe and into North America is not only a surprise but a worrying development. The significant change in classification by the World Health Organisation of the crisis as a Global Pandemic has seen restrictions and changes to our lives being implemented in an attempt to manage the situation. Within Bahrain, we hope that the outbreak has been controlled and that cases of those affected are recovering. We must all continue to maintain the highest possible standards of hygiene and personal care. I hope that everyone remains safe and healthy; of course, the safety of the entire BSB community remains our priority at this time.

There continue to be many positive surprises within the BSB Virtual School Environment. The School took a bold step two weeks ago in allowing the teachers to work remotely in order to fulfil the aims of our programme of classes. Trust will regularly reap greater rewards. The outcomes of the programme to provide a stimulating remote learning environment through personalised attention, live teaching and activities that promote independent learning were shared with all teachers. The BSB staff were then trusted to fulfil these aims, but without the school being too prescriptive about the methodology that must be implemented. This approach provides teachers with the freedom to develop and experiment with their provision and the results continue to be highly positive. The ingenuity, innovation of pedagogy, collaboration and development has seen our BSB Virtual School continue to evolve over the last two weeks. As always, we welcome feedback and suggestions from parents and pupils about how to develop our online learning further and ensure that we continue to provide one of the leading virtual school provisions not just within Bahrain, but within the wider GCC region. There have been many enjoyable surprises over the last two weeks, and it continues to be a highlight to see the learning of the BSB students during this time.

I wish everyone within the BSB community a healthy and happy week with all classes proceeding as normal. Please continue to contact the school with your thoughts, comments and best wishes. We appreciate that this is a difficult time for everyone and through collaboration and ingenuity we will ensure that we continue to develop our supportive school provision.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: March 5th, 2020

“When written in Chinese, the word ‘crisis’ is composed of two characters. One represents danger and the other represents opportunity”

John F. Kennedy

Over the past two weeks, the world has descended into a deeper crisis. Sadly, this danger has also come home to us in Bahrain and we are now feeling the threats to our safety. However, within this time of crisis, opportunities have arisen and have been seized upon by individuals, especially within BSB.

It is in a time of crisis that one often sees the true character of an organisation and individuals. Recent times have certainly presented difficulties, but during these times the community of BSB has shown its true character. The temporary closure of all schools, to minimise the danger of the COVID-19 Coronavirus, presented BSB with a challenge. Yet, within 48 hours of the announcement the BSB Senior Leadership Team had designed and implemented our new ‘Virtual BSB’. It was then rolled out by all staff and have been refined and developed over the course of the week.

Excellent schools thrive through human interactions; all staff that work within them are by nature collaborative, gregarious and caring. These are the characteristics of all our staff at BSB and are what make the school so strong. For these reasons our Virtual School has placed great emphasis on live video teaching, use of video technology and live feedback. It would have been far easier to simply share worksheets and activities online for students to work through at their own pace. However, personal caring interaction is at the core of our provision and we are keen to maintain the human element of interaction as much as possible, even within a virtual school. During the ‘Virtual BSB’, every child has spoken to their teachers, watched them demonstrate activities, and have been able to ask their teachers questions and get an immediate response. This human interaction is at the core of our normal school provision and it is also what has made our Virtual School provision so successful.

What is most pleasing to see, are the opportunities, that have arisen out of this crisis, being seized by both staff and the students. All staff have demonstrated a strong positive mindset and have worked hard to experiment, be innovative and share best practice. The students have responded to this situation through their development of independent learning skills and have been creative and innovative in their own learning. There are many aspects of the ‘Virtual BSB’ which we will now embed into our regular provision when we return. Whilst avoiding the danger of this crisis we have certainly taken advantage of the opportunities.

Finally, I would like to thank BSB parents for their support, comments, engagement and patience. The Virtual BSB would not have been possible without the staff, students’ and parents’ full support. It has been a test of our community, but one that has led to everyone rising to the challenge.

We are currently witnessing a global crisis that has a huge impact at a local level. All around the world the impact of this crisis is being felt and we here at BSB have sympathy with everyone affected. However, we should also take this time to remind ourselves that we live and work in a wonderful community and one that can achieve great things, when we put our minds to it.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: February 20th, 2020

For Life

Last week I was asked, by the Senior pupils, who inspired me. A very apt question, and one that I could

not answer by naming only one person. I think inspiration comes from a range of sources and a range of people. One person I do admire greatly and has influenced every one of our lives, is somebody that I can guarantee that nobody at BSB has heard of. Yet every single member of BSB uses, or should use, his invention every day.

Secondly, I admire his generosity of spirit and his strong belief that we should put the good of the community ahead of commercial or profit driven motives. Nils Bohlin’s invention could have made him extremely wealthy, but that was not within his character. His aim was to improve the lives of every person in the world and could only do this by making his invention accessible to all. It is thanks to this ethos that we all benefit from his work and use it every day. These values are something I admire greatly and why we at BSB put so much into developing the character of the students. We aim for them to be the leaders of the future and to have a global impact. But we want them to make this impact whilst retaining their ethical and moral values which will make their impression become a lasting legacy.

So, what did Nils Bohlin invent? In 1959 he worked for Volvo and sought to improve the safety of cars. Whilst many car manufacturers were content with seat belts being simply across the lap of the driver, Nils identified that these belts actually caused more internal injuries than they saved people. His team sought to solve this problem and invented the 3-point harness that automatically locked and retained the passenger in their seat. The invention was revolutionary, and Nils secured the patent for his design. He and his colleagues at Volvo then did something which reflected huge moral fibre and character. They had a choice between retaining the design for Volvo and achieving great wealth, or making the design open to all manufacturers and thereby saving the lives of millions of people They decided that this design was too important to keep it to themselves and they released the patent for all cars to adopt freely. This act meant that every car in the world now uses Nils Bohlin’s design. He has perhaps saved more lives than we can measure. His is a true legacy, and one that I admire greatly.

This half term I wish the entire BSB community a well-deserved rest and hope that they have time to explore, read and develop interests. Most of all I hope that they remain safe and the next time they are in their cars, remember not only that there is a bit of Nils Bohlin in every car, but also what values led to his invention being there: Courage, Innovation, Passion and Philanthropy.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: February 13th, 2020

Now is the winter of our discontent

Made glorious summer by this sun of York;

Last weekend the weather began to warm, and one could be forgiven for thinking that the Bahraini winter was nearer an end, however, this week the wind and cold returned in force and it is clear winter has a few more days left in it. When the summer does arrive, with it comes the sitting of the important external examinations that influence the future of many BSB pupils.

For our Year 11 and Year 13 classes, I don’t think we can say that the winter is a time of ‘discontent’. However, mock examination results and the realisation for these pupils that they only have a limited number of classes remaining before Study leave begins, can be quite a daunting time. The important thing to remember is that within all times of need, there are many people on hand to support every pupil through the pressures that they may face. For the BSB pupils, preparations for examinations can be a challenge that they have not encountered before. The BSB staff, on the other hand, are experienced professionals who are ready to help, support and guide every individual towards success in their examinations. This may be through pastoral support, a listening ear or additional academic tutoring and testing. I encourage all BSB families to fully utilise the expertise and willingness of the outstanding BSB staff.

In Britain there is a saying for gardeners that ‘an hour in winter is worth two in summer’. The temptation in winter is to relax as things seem a long way off. Before you know it, the summer is upon you and you must work twice as hard to achieve the same results as before. In many ways preparation for examinations is like the nurturing of a garden. The more of the groundwork that can be put in during these winter months the easier the revision will be in the summer. Every gardener knows that a glorious garden one year, does not guarantee the same result in subsequent years. The only guarantee of success is through methodical and sustained hard effort applied in the right way. This is what the BSB examination classes need to be thinking about at this time of year.

A good way for all families to celebrate the end of the Bahraini winter will be through the International Family Fair on March 6^th. I do hope to meet and talk to families there in what I am told is one of the best events in the BSB calendar.

As the winter fades, and when the sun does begin to gloriously shine, we all want the academic results to ‘bloom’ in full splendour this summer, but as any gardener will tell you, the results of the summer months are in fact a reflection of the work put in during wintertime.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: February 6th, 2020

Courage is Fire

Bullying is Smoke

Benjamin Disraeli

This week has mostly been dominated by discussions about fire. The entire school community continues to be concerned and have sympathy with the ongoing Bush Fires that have devastated large parts of Australia. Having spent a year of my youth working in the Northern Territory and the South Australian Outback it saddens me greatly to think of the exquisite landscape and wildlife that have borne the impact of these fires; notwithstanding the huge losses that the people of Australia have had to endure.

On a positive note, BSB had the pleasure of welcoming the Bahrain Civil Defence in order to conduct their annual Fire Drill Inspection this week. Quite rightly, the Civil Defence put us through our paces and questioned all aspects of our provision to ensure that we are truly safe. I was incredibly proud of every individual within the BSB community that day; they showed how we can deliver excellence no matter what the challenge. The Bahrain Civil Defence were stunned by how well the pupils exited the buildings and their behaviour throughout the exercise. They had never seen a school evacuate as quickly, efficiently and effectively as BSB. For 3500 individuals to leave the buildings and be accounted for in under 8 minutes is no mean feat. Every person played their part and together we achieved something the Civil Defence did not think was possible. It was a pleasure to behold and to be a part of.

Whilst in reality, fire is a devastating and dangerous element, as educators the metaphorical fire that we light within our pupils is one that we all treasure. Seeing the sparks of imagination, the development of talent and the burning passion for learning grow within any young person is something that enriches every teacher’s life.

Every student at BSB has the right to be able to develop as an individual within a safe and supportive environment that respects all people and celebrates diversity. The courage to be true to one’s own beliefs is something that we want to instil in all BSB students. They should not be afraid to be themselves and to understand their own limits and to push these whilst developing their self confidence and self-esteem. Inside every BSB student is a fire that we must nurture to ensure that it burns brightly.

Unfortunately, for many reasons, we find that with individuality sometimes comes a negative aspect; that of bullying. Bullying is the smoke that can choke a young person. It can stifle their ability to breathe and to be themselves. Bullying has no place at BSB and I am grateful that I work in a community that does not tolerate bullying and recognises the need to eradicate it whenever it appears. No school is free from the curse of bullying. From my experience as an inspector, any school that says it is devoid of bullying is normally turning a blind eye to it. Thankfully it is a rarity within BSB. This is an important aspect and one that requires all students, parents and staff to support. Bullying must be challenged at every opportunity by the majority, otherwise the minority suffer. The positive way that every student treats each other, and their teachers was what first attracted me to BSB and is something that still motivates me every day when I walk through the playgrounds or observe learning within lessons.

We need to continue to light metaphorical fires within young minds and ensure that they burn smoke-free.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: January 30th, 2020

“The Wonderful Everyday”

When I first mooted the idea to our family of relocating to Bahrain, my youngest daughter stipulated one requirement; bunkbeds. She didn’t mind where we lived in the world provided that she could have bunkbeds.

True to my word, last weekend we ventured to a certain Swedish furniture manufacturer and after what seemed like an eternity, we left having ordered a set of bunkbeds, which would make a little girl happy. What I failed to grasp was that this week’s nights would be spent deciphering simple looking diagrams which lull you into a sense that you are assembling it correctly.

To take my mind off the task, I began to think that in some ways international education is similar to my experience this week. Just like the Swedish manufacturer whose product is exported to great success worldwide, a British curriculum based education is a highly sought-after commodity and one that opens doors to the best universities and careers in the world. Whilst one might argue that it is certainly higher in quality, it is also welcomed all over the globe as a mark of excellence. But can education really be ‘flat packed’ and can it be ‘exported’ in the same way?

Just like the furniture manufacturer, a British education is the product of a history of innovation, refinement and development. Of course, it has its flaws, but these are outweighed by its innumerable strengths. Any education system that feels it is complete, and doesn’t need to develop further, is one that is already obsolete. The beauty of the British Curriculum lies in its own recognition that it should continue to improve, continue to change and continue to meet the needs of its users. Both of these global exports therefore certainly share the values of flexibility, innovation and adaptability.

I realised this week, through bitter experience, that assembling furniture is made a lot easier if you have the right tools. Thank goodness for electric screwdrivers! The assembly of a child’s education is made quicker and better through outstanding teachers. Classrooms are nurturing environments that develop a love of learning, a passion for knowledge and the skills to take risks and develop independent enquiry. All of these are not possible without outstanding teachers. Thankfully, whilst my evenings this week have been spent making beds, my days have been spent observing some truly inspirational teaching at BSB.

One key difference within this analogy (there are probably many) is that, unlike mass produced furniture, outstanding education is bespoke, it is individual, and it is personalised. Every student that journeys through BSB takes a different path. They all benefit from different aspects and different niches that allow them to grow in character and confidence. BSB celebrates individuals and welcomes all no matter what their background. In this way, these aspects combine to make “The Wonderful Everyday”.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: January 23rd, 2020

This week I had the pleasure of listening to the Her Majesty’s British Ambassador to Bahrain, Roderick Drummond, speak about his impressions of Bahrain and how he hopes the future of the relationship between the United Kingdom and Bahrain will develop over the next few years.

The role of an ambassador is not an easy one and takes courage and a strong character to complete with success. The balance between representing the values of one country whilst embracing those of another is not an easy task. Ambassadors require humility, tolerance, diplomacy and tact. There is no place for arrogance, superiority and self-importance. Promotion of values and the development of others, without pompousness is actually a harder skill than portraying a sense of dominance. These are character traits that we seek to model and develop within all of our students at BSB.

I have had the pleasure of observing a large number of Infant School lessons this week. Whilst enjoying the fun, happiness and learning brought about by outstanding teaching in these lessons, one thing stood out; the pupils’ behaviour and attitudes towards their learning. The engagement, enjoyment and positivity displayed by all of the students was superb and they represented the very best of BSB’s values in every class. I was impressed by the way that every pupil approached their learning, the support they showed for their peers, and most of all the lack of arrogance, even from the most able student within every class. I was proud to say that the students represented BSB well and I am also confident that they are good ambassadors of the school when they go home.

With over 80 nationalities within BSB, we are truly a diverse community and one that embraces individuality and difference. Through developing the right values within our students, we set them up for a life as transformational leaders. Perhaps in 25 years’ time, one of the current BSB students will be on course to be an ambassador. From what I have observed this week, they would complete the role with aplomb.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: January 16th, 2020

Executive Head's News: January 8th, 2020

As my first week at the British School of Bahrain nears an end, I am pleased to pen my first blog entry as the Executive Headteacher of this fine school. I would like to start by wishing the entire school community a very Happy New Year and hope that 2020 brings you much prosperity.

I have often found that the first day of January brings about changes. Many people enjoy the opportunity of starting a new year with a resolution and a desire to change a small aspect of their lives. Of course, for me and my family this New Year has brought about a significant change in our lives.

To paraphrase the philosopher Bertrand Russell;

“Change is scientific, but progress is a matter of opinion.”

I have often thought that this quote is quite apt. We can all identify how something changes from one thing to another, these are not debatable, something has either changed or it hasn’t. However, each of us will have a different view on whether this change is an improvement or not, people will ask often ‘is it progress?’

For me, the significant change I have made to mine and my family’s lives certainly feels like progress. The school community could not have been more welcoming or helpful and everywhere I turn everyone either welcomes me to the country or to BSB. This natural friendliness and openness are traits of all those associated with BSB and one that I hope never changes. Equally, the values and character of BSB are something that should not change. It must always be the friendly, positive, nurturing environment that we all currently enjoy, and I am keen to retain the school’s ethos of putting pupils first and developing our values of Excellence, Responsibility and Individuality.

As I begin my tenure leading BSB, I look forward to working with some very talented individuals and I am sure that we will make changes to a whole plethora of aspects of BSB. Change is not always easy, however, we should also recognise that without change there can be no improvements, no progress and therefore change is a necessity to our lives.

I look forward to meeting all the pupils, staff, parents and friends of BSB and as the years continue to bring about real progress whilst retaining the character of the school.

John Maguire

Executive Head's News: December 12th, 2019

Executive Head's News: November 28th, 2019

Executive Head's News: November 21st, 2019

INSPIRED NEWSLETTER | EIGHTH EDITION

Executive Head's News: October 31st, 2019

Dear Parents,

School productions are a wonderous thing - they promote collaboration, community and creativity. As we watch Aladdin take shape at the BSB, it made me think of the world of entertainment, and one great figure in particular. Sir Peter Ustinov (1921-2004) was a true renaissance man - actor, writer, film, theatre and opera director, intellectual and diplomat, designer, screenwriter, comedian and possibly the most entertaining fixture on television talk shows in history. Having won two Academy Awards, Emmy, Golden Globe, BAFTA and Grammy Awards, he was most fond of citing his greatest role as that of UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for 35 years. Interestingly, Ustinov was fluent in English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Russian, Turkish and Greek! I wonder how many of our BSB students rehearsing for Aladdin share in Mr Ustinov's multi-faceted talents.

Have a wonderful week of creativity!

John O'Connor

Executive Head's News: October 17th, 2019

Executive Head's News: September 25th, 2019

Dear Parents,

I am so proud to hear that BSB students are joining the likes of Greta Thunberg in taking action to address environmental and climate challenges - and invite you to read the report below on the beach clean-up. The world's youth are clearly sending a message that needs to be listened to...

Last weekend saw the Bahrain community joining forces with the rest of the world to tackle the enormous damage that we have inflicted on the environment. Cleanup Bahrain mobilised the citizens and residents of the country to remove the rubbish from twelve beaches. Over 30 BSB Senior students, led by the Environment Committee executive members Imran, Mohammed, Julia and Smayan, attended the cleanup at Damistan Beach on Saturday evening. This was done completely on the initiative of the students and they were true BSB ambassadors, working hard with a positive spirit. The most heart-warming element of the cleanup was perhaps the ripple-effect that it had: families having picnics on the beach couldn't help but join in with the efforts of the beach cleaners. They were true to the motto of the project: Together We Make a Difference! (Ms Williams, Head of Year 12).

Well done to our BSB environmental ambassadors!

Have a great week.

John O'Connor

Executive Head's News: September 19th, 2019

Executive Head's News: September 5th, 2019

See below for last year data archives

BSB looks forward to welcoming returning and new students to school on Monday 2nd September.

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing June 23rd, 2019

School closes on Wednesday 3rd July

Dear Parents

As we approach the final week of the school year it is important that we share the end of term arrangements.

The Infant School, up to and including Year 2, will finish at 11:30 a.m. Infant parents, please be prompt, because the rest of the students will be finishing at 12:00 p.m. and car parking areas around the school will be very busy.

Junior and senior students, Years 3 to 12, will finish at 12:00 p.m.

There are no after-school activities or academies running on the last day, Wednesday 3rd July.

We look forward to welcoming returning and new students back to school on Monday 2nd September.

A Spectacular Dance Academy End of Year Performance

Thank you for the fantastic performances by the Dance Academy children at BSB on Saturday afternoon, 22nd June. A colourful array of eye-catching costumes and happy faces, dancing to a broad range of music. The children have clearly worked hard this term and their enjoyment of dancing on stage, to the delight of their parents, was clear to see. Well done Dance Academy, what a great way to finish the academy year.

Thank you to BSB teacher and Dance Academy leader Claire Carney for your inspirational devotion to your dance students.

Final Good Morning Performance of the Year

The final Good Morning Performance of the academic year was a wonderful opportunity for our talented and excited Little Stars Infant Choir to perform for a large crowd of parents, teachers and students. They sang some of their favourite songs that they have performed so beautifully throughout the year.

Thank you, Mrs Carter, for all your hard work with the students and for our frequent Good Morning Performances.

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing June 16th, 2019

Staff Appreciation Day Thursday 13th June

The teachers, administration staff and support staff at BSB would like me to publicly thank the PCC organisers and many other parents who assisted and contributed to the Staff Appreciation Day. Thank you to all those parents who sent food to school to make up staff buffets in our staff rooms around the school.

Our Parent Community Committee (PCC) organisers, led by Yvette Prins, coordinated the collection of food and then a large group of parents distributed the food and set-up buffets in various locations for staff to enjoy during the school breaks. They even had a replenishment routine organised. It was like a military operation!

I have never seen staff rooms so full. All staff at BSB were delighted to be thanked and recognised for the work they do throughout the year for the children by the parents in this generous and heart warming way. We are truly appreciative of this kind gesture.

Year 3 Roman Day

It is always a pleasure to be invited to year group theme days. Year 3 children have been learning about the Romans and came dressed as Roman citizens for their end of topic celebration. The children were keen to tell me about the topics they had been learning and seemed particularly fascinated with the Colosseum in Rome and the Gladiators who fought for their lives as slaves against each other and against ferocious lions and tigers. I tested a few children on their Roman numerals and was suitably impressed.

During the morning, the classes rotated through five activities such as making Roman coins and figures for the Colosseum model shown in the picture below.

In the afternoon parents were invited to see their Pop-up Museums in Year 3 classrooms followed by a Roman Day concert in the Sports Hall.

See more photos in the Juniors' weekly Blog.

Well done Year 11 and Year 13 students - External Examinations completed

Year 11 and Year 13 students have now completed their IGCSE, A Level and IB examinations; those students taking BTEC qualifications have had their portfolios of work moderated and sent to the examination boards. We look forward to seeing many of the Year 11 students next year when they start their very demanding pre-university A level and BTEC courses. We also look forward to the Year 13 Graduation Ceremony taking place on Monday 24th June at the Gulf Hotel.

To the students, we know you have been under tremendous pressure for the last two months during the examination period. Well done for the way you have conducted yourself during the external examination period. We sincerely hope you reap the rewards of all your hard work over the last two years.

Some important dates

IB results released on Friday 5th July.

AS, A-Level and BTEC results released on Thursday 15th August.

IGCSE results released on Thursday 22nd August.

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing June 9th, 2019

Tuesday Morning Showcase Performance

On Tuesday 11th June, parents and students were treated to early morning performances from our talented BSB students in the school Administration area. It was wonderful to see the range of performances including singing and instrumentals; there was even a duet on the Piano which was of an unbelievable standard. Some of the students have only been playing their instruments for a few months and I was most impressed that they were willing to perform and demonstrate their progress to date. Well done to our talented students and thank you for entertaining us.

Year 3 and Year 4 Science Fair

During the school day on Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th June, parents had the opportunity to visit the Year 3 and 4 Science Fair. As a Physics teacher myself, I am always keen to learn about the topics the children present to their audience of parents and teachers. It is always good to learn something new! The children certainly understand the science investigation process and use terms such as: variables, hypothesis, method, results and conclusions confidently. The enthusiastic way the children present their experiments is delightful to see. Parents have to pay attention because the group ask them questions at the end to see if they have been listening. I was awarded three stars for correct answers on Tuesday and proudly presented them to my wife who said I was very clever!

End of Year Infant Show

On Monday 3rd June I was invited to watch our infant children perform for their parents and teachers. The individual class performances and the combined performances were simply delightful to watch.

These shows are always the highlight of my week and I appreciate the amazing work our infant teachers do to coordinate such a performance. What shines through is how the children are so excited to perform.

See the Infant blog for more details.

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing May 26th, 2019

Eid Al Fitr Celebrations and School Holiday

As we approach the Eid Al Fitr celebrations and holiday, I would like to inform you of the possible dates for the Eid holiday.

It is highly expected that the first day of Eid will fall on Tuesday 4^th June and the school will be closed from Tuesday 4^th June to Thursday 6^th June, inclusive.

If the first day of Eid happens to fall on Wednesday 5^th June, the school will be closed on Wednesday 5^th June, Thursday 6^th June and Sunday 9^th June.

We will send out an email when we have confirmation. You will appreciate that the official notification may be as late as the evening of Monday 3^rd June.

After the Eid break the school will revert back to its normal start and finish times and after-school activity times.

End of Year Reception Show

It is always a great pleasure to watch our youngest children perform for their doting parents. The individual class performances and the combined performances were simply delightful to watch.

When my own children were young, I remember how difficult it was to get them all to stand still and smile for a photograph. Therefore, I appreciate the amazing work our reception teachers do to coordinate such a performance. What shines through is how the children are so excited to perform.

See the Infant blog for more detail.

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing May 19th, 2019

Interim Executive Head visit from Mr John O'Connor

This week we were pleased to welcome our Inspired guest, John O'Connor, to the school, along with Dr Stephen Spurr, Inspired's Director of Education. Mr O'Connor will be taking over as Executive Head at BSB for an interim period starting in August 2019. Dr Spurr and Mr O'Connor spent time touring the three sections of the school, visiting lessons and meeting teachers, parents and students. Mr O'Connor was most impressed with what he saw and looks forward to joining the school towards the end of August 2019.

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing May 12th 2019

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing April 28th 2019

Ramadan Timings

The Holy Month of Ramadan is expected to commence on or around the 5^th May 2019, depending on the sighting of the moon. The British School of Bahrain will be making various practical arrangements to accommodate the students and staff who are fasting.

It is expected that all students will continue to attend school during Ramadan and I ask that Junior and Infant school parents notify your child’s class teacher/form tutor if your child(ren) are fasting.

The school day will be shortened by finishing one hour earlier than normal for the majority of year groups. The school day start times will not change.

Each of the six lessons in the school day will be shortened from 55 to 45 minutes to make up the one-hour difference. This will ensure that all subjects continue to be taught as normal.

Each school will send a letter to parents detailing the school day timings for all year groups.

Ramadan Kareem

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing April 14th 2019

School will be closed for the Spring break from Wednesday 17th April to Thursday 25th April. School reopens for all students on Sunday 28th April.

Calling all bakers!

The PCC is hosting a bake sale and coffee morning in the atrium alongside the 2^nd hand uniform sale on 29 April 2019 from 8 a.m. – 11.a.m. All parents are welcome to join us for a cup of coffee or tea, especially our new parents.

Please consider donating baked goods for the PCC to sell, all goodies can be dropped off in the Atrium from 7.30 a.m.

Also, please consider giving an hour of your time to man the tables. Please contact me at pcc@thebsbh.com if you would like to volunteer.

Kind regards

Yvette Prins

The day finished with the final Keynote speaker, James Sanders, the co-founder and CEO of Breakout EDU, talking about how it is ‘Too important not to fail’.The entire day was an invaluable experience in how future technologies and emerging practices are transforming learning. It also opened our students' eyes and minds to the endless possibilities that are open to them in the future as they continue on their path of life-long learning.

Here is what our students had to say...

Hajar 5.02: 'The summit was very educational and all of the activities were taught in a fun way. I was very glad to have the opportunity to be there'. "Thank you Mrs Rule for taking us".

Mohammed 6.08 : 'The Future Learning Summit is definitely the future of learning; it was the most creative event I have ever been to! Ben Towers was really inspiring because of his story and how young he was when he started his first business'.

Nasser 6.08: 'I had so much fun and I really enjoyed the 'Makey Makey' session because you were able to code using everyday items! I also liked the Video Killed the Radio Star session because it was cool to discover new ways to edit videos.'

Thank you to Mrs Samantha Rule, Year 6 Teacher and learning technologies leader, who gave up her weekend to support the students.

Smiles and appreciation from the children at the Mash Foundation Trust Library for the books sent from the BSB community.

The British School of Bahrain community came together in the winter term to collect over 120 Kg of reading books to donate to The Mash Foundation in Nairobi, Kenya. This initiative was organised by Ms Susan Cullen and assisted by Charlotte Rodney (10E) and Shamayel Qureshi (10F). Students across the school, parents, teachers and friends of the BSB were extremely generous with their donations. These books were shipped securely and directly to Nairobi, Kenya. In addition, DHL in Bahrain were extremely generous and agreed to ship these books free of charge to Nairobi as part of DHL’s Corporate Social Responsibilities (Go Teach). We are absolutely thrilled to see (photo above) that these books reached the children that visit the Mash Foundation Trust library every week to read new books.

Please see the letter from Mr. Charles Macharia, the founder of the Mash Foundation

Dear Mr Jeff Smith,

I am the Founder and Director of the Mash Foundation Trust in Nairobi Kenya and I am writing to you to express my sincere gratitude and thanks for the most generous donation to our library in Joska, Nairobi.

As you may already be aware, the library reaches over 400 children age 6 and above who live below the poverty line and their families cannot afford to buy sufficient reading materials for their children. With your donation, we have been able to accommodate a larger part of the community, together with expanding their choice of reading materials. A greater number of children now have more age appropriate reading material and a wider choice from which to develop their skills and learning in reading. The positive effect this is having on the children and within the community is fantastic and is helping to encourage more children to read more and visit the library more regularly.

I would also like to extend my thanks to Ms. Susan Cullen for initiating this project and seeing it through from beginning to where we are today. She has often visited the area when she is spending time in Nairobi and we look forward to welcoming her again in the future. In addition, I would like to express my thanks to The British School of Bahrain student community, the parent body, Mr. Wayne Ridgeway and the senior management team at The British School and Mr. Thabet El Barshoumy of DHL Bahrain. We are extremely grateful for your generous contribution and the role each of you have played in making this donation.

We will continue to update Susan on the developments of the library and look forward to seeing the positive effects on our community that you have helped contribute towards. Should you wish to donate or volunteer with The Mash Foundation in the future, please contact Susan.

Once again, thank you for being a part of our community and part of the lives of so many children.

Sincerely,

Mr. Charles Macharia

Founder and Director, The Mash Foundation Trust

Nairobi, Kenya

Executive Head's News: Week commencing April 7th 2019

Second Hand Uniform sale at BSB Monday 29th April

Dear Parents

Our second hand uniform shop parent volunteers, Margreet and Olga, would like me to inform you about the next second hand uniform sale which will be held in the school Atrium on Monday 29th April, from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m.

All items are priced at 1 BD so you can make a substantial saving on uniform items that are only sold if they are in good condition. Many items are almost new. All proceeds go towards the Parent Community Committee (PCC).

There will also be a cake sale and tea and coffee will be served. New parents, please come along and meet our wonderful parent volunteers.

Year 10 Work Experience

Over the past week, Year 10 students have been completing their work experience placements. This is an opportunity for them to find out about the world of work.

Previously, in preparation, the students were taught about the importance of this valuable opportunity. To prepare them, Year 10 took part in a Work Experience Preparation Day on Wednesday 11^th April. This included guidance regarding CV’s, interviews and talks about health and safety in the work environment.

Students had access to the careers support program ‘Fast Tomato’and a work experience database, when deciding on a suitable placement that would interest them. They could also access further assistance in securing a suitable placement at our in-house Careers Clinic run by our Head of Careers, Mr Zulkernain Abbas.

Some of the student placements: Zain Headquarters, Gulf Aviation Academy, Batelco, American Mission Hospital, Bahrain Specialist Hospital, Four Seasons Hotel, Juventus Academy and BSB Junior and Infant schools.

Thank you to some of our parents who created opportunities at their places of work.

A Special thank you to Mr Abbas for all his work in preparing the students and in coordinating the week. I know Mr Abbas would also like me to thank all the teachers who went to visit the students on their placements during the week.

Executive Head's News: Week commencing March 31st 2019

Executive Head's News: Week commencing March 24th 2019

Executive Head's News: Week commencing March 17th 2019

I won’t bore anyone with the storyline as I suspect I’m the only one on the planet not to know it … but the script was witty and delivered with precision and joy throughout.

This was especially surprising as Shrek himself, who should have been played by sixth former Ross Laign but, who sadly, was taken ill two days before opening night, had to be replaced by Shruti Ramesh.

She had no involvement in the play at all as she was concentrating on her mock exams but like a true trooper, stepped in at the last moment to help out her school. Shruti, who has already won a place at an American drama college, made for a very appealing and believable Shrek.

Every single member of the cast performed his or her heart out and the music from the British School Band was note perfect as well.

I have to mention several stand-out performances such as by Salma Sarkis as Donkey. She explored the role in a gloriously vaudeville-style that was a treat to watch. Congratulations must also go to the very polished Fiona – Neha Govind, Gingy – Aliaksandra Estanom and the gloriously funny Prince Farquaad played by Lewis McBain. Plus, a very special ‘shout out’ to The Dragon – Annie Kennaugh, whose dancing and sheer vitality won over my heart.

There is no space to name everyone else involved, but they are all truly talented and gifted and should be very proud of themselves, as should their leaders Barry Kerr, director of music, and head of drama, Lee Bissell.

- Christine Hasan

Executive Head's News: Week commencing March 3rd 2019

PCC Meeting Information to Parents

Each half term I meet with the Parent Representative Committee (PCC).

They play an important part in our school communications system by keeping me informed of the views and concerns of parents from the representative class links. On Wednesday 6th March we were joined by Dr Stephen Spurr, our Director of Education for Inspired.

During the first part of the meeting I like to update PCC member on various items which I would like to share with you.

The large Shade that will connect the Administration building and the Juniors building is being erected and will be completed over the next two weeks. As promised, it will be in place before the hot weather arrives.

The Early Years playground will be resurfaced within the next two weeks.

We have been informed by the planning authorities that the road system around the school will be significantly altered to improve the traffic situation in the area. Two one way systems will be put in place in the local vicinity and the main road will be widened. If we combine these improvements with the additional use of parking spaces in the car parks of the new mall, we will start the next academic year with a much improved parking situation.

The parents brought up the following concerns and the responses can be seen on the PCC meeting minutes that will be sent to you shortly.

The length of the school day in infants, Arabic teaching, the poor state of the lost and found area, the need for more cameras in certain locations, teething problems with the implementation of Cyclic testing for this academic year, a reduction of GCSE options from 9 to 8 and sixth form center design and cleaning. There were some additional items that you will see in the minutes. I would like to assure you that we take all concerns very seriously.

Executive Head's News: Week commencing February 17th 2019

We would like to wish you a relaxing and enjoyable half term. The school will reopen on Sunday 3rd March 2019.

We know our Year 11 and Year 13 students will have a busy week revising for their IGCSE and A-Level examinations. Good luck in your preparations.

Shrek: a Whole School Production - March 13th, 14th & 15th 2019

Dear Parents

We are very excited about our production of 'Shrek the Musical' and would like to cordially invite you to join in this wonderful experience. We have an excellent cast and crew who will entertain you throughout with their terrific performance skills. Students from both the Junior and Senior school are part of the cast which gives us a truly whole school production.

If you wish to participate in this wonderful experience then tickets are available from either the reception (admin building) or from Mr Kerr in the music department. Costs for the tickets are 5BD for adults and 2BD for under 12s.

Concert dates are Wednesday 13th - Friday 15th March with performances starting at 7 p.m. and will take place in the MPH at BSB.

I hope you all take this opportunity to support our wonderful students.

Mr Kerr

A sincere thank you to our three teachers who gave up their whole weekend to support the students and who have played such a large role in training the students throughout the year.

Thank you Mr. Yasin Motara, Ms. Yasmine Bouroubi & Ms. Vikki Hughes-Swick

You can read the impressive full report in the Seniors News Blog.

Swim Team Members at MEUC:

Congratulations to our Swim Team members who competed and represented BSB over the weekend of the 8th and 9th February at the Hamdan Sports Complex in Dubai for the MEUC Swim Meet. The team had an excellent competition and as predicted they did us proud and many smashed the personal best times.

Seniors - Liam Marshall, Youssef Mohamed, Kalpana Dawani, Lewis McBain, Konstantina Bograkou, Adham Gomaa, Farida Ebeid, Riley Poskaitis, Josh O’Neill, Saif Tohami and Lucy Hassett.

Juniors -Ryle Hassett; Sabian Williams; Ella Jezdikova; Minas Manolesakis; Nyalll Thopill; Jesse Fielding; Faris Tohami;

Medal winners- Liam Marshall, Lucy Hassett, Farida Ebeid, Adham Gomaa: Silver Medal - 4 x 50m Freestyle Relay

Liam Marshall: Gold 50m Butterfly, Gold 100m Butterfly, Silver 50m Freestyle, Silver 100m Freestyle, Bronze 200m Individual Medley

Lucy Hassett: Bronze 50m Butterfly, Silver 100m Breaststroke, Bronze 200m Breaststroke, Bronze 50m Backstroke, Silver 50m Breaststroke, Silver 100m Butterfly

Adham Gomaa: Bronze 50m Breaststroke

Youssef Mohamed: Development Gold 100m Freestyle

Saif Tohami: Gold 50m Breaststroke, Bronze 200m Freestyle, Gold 100m Breaststroke, Gold 200m Breaststroke

Faris Tohami: Gold 200m Freestyle; Gold 200m Backstroke; Silver 100m Butterfly; Silver 100m Freestyle; Silver 200 Individual Medley

Minas Manolesakis: Bronze 100m Backstroke

Jesse Fielding: Development Silver 50m Breaststroke

Ryle Hassett: Development Bronze 100m Backstroke

Year 11 Drama Students Deliver Outstanding GCSE Performances

It was a great pleasure to be invited to see the Year 11 Drama IGCSE students deliver their performances to an audience of teachers, parents and students. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening where the students demonstrated their incredible acting talents that would be appreciated on any professional stage.

The plays covered by four groups of students, pictured above, were:"

"Waiting for Godot" by Samuel Beckett

This is a play in which two characters, Vladimir (Didi) and Estragon (Gogo), wait for the arrival of someone named Godot who never arrives, and while waiting they engage in a variety of discussions and encounter three other characters. Waiting for Godot is Beckett's translation of his own original French play, En attendant Godot, and is subtitled (in English only) "a tragicomedy in two acts".

"The Lesson" by Eugene Ionesco

This play takes place in the office and dining room of a small French flat. The Professor, a man of 50 to 60, is expecting a new Pupil (aged 18). The Professor's Maid, a stout, red-faced woman of 40 to 50, worries about the Professor's health. As the absurd and nonsensical lesson progresses, the Professor grows more and more angry with what he perceives as the Pupil's ignorance, and the Pupil becomes more and more quiet and meek. Even her health begins to deteriorate, and what starts as a toothache develops into her entire body aching. At the climax of the play, the plot turns full circle as a new student arrives.

"The Doll's house" by Henrik Ibsen

The play opens at Christmas time as Nora Helmer enters her home carrying many packages. Nora's husband, Torvald, is working in his study when she arrives. He playfully rebukes her for spending so much money on Christmas gifts, calling her his "little squirrel." He teases her about how the previous year she had spent weeks making gifts and ornaments by hand because money was scarce. This year, Torvald is due a promotion at the bank where he works, so Nora feels that they can let themselves go a little. This play deals with the status of women within the Norwegian society of this time.

"My mother never said I should" by Charlotte Keatley

This play is about the difficult relationships between mothers and daughters and explores the themes of independence, growing up and secrets. The story explores the lives and relationships of four generations of women: Doris, Margaret, Jackie and Rosie. Their loves, expectations, and choices are set against the huge social changes of the twentieth century.

BSB responds to the Mash Foundation in Nairobi with the most generous support from DHL

The British School of Bahrain community has come together in the winter term to collect over 120kg of reading books to donate to The Mash Foundation in Nairobi, Kenya. This initiative was organised by Ms Susan Cullen and assisted by Charlotte Rodney (10E) and Shamayel Qureshi (10F). Students across the school, parents, teachers and friends of the BSB were extremely generous with their donations. These books will be shipped securely and directly to Nairobi, Kenya. In addition, DHL in Bahrain have been extremely generous and have offered to ship these books free of charge to Nairobi as part of DHL’s Corporate Social Responsibilities (Go Teach). We are absolutely thrilled to know that these books will reach Nairobi safely and securely to the children that visit the Mash Foundation Trust library every week to read new books.

Below is a short message from Mr. Charles Macharia from the MASH Foundation:

The MASH Foundation is non- profit making charity registered in Kenya. Their mission is to empower community through education, health and motivation. The MASH Foundation did a needs assessment on literacy levels on children in one of the poorer suburbs of Nairobi and saw a need to empower children through enhancing a reading culture as most families are poor and are unfortunate enough to be able to buy many literature materials for their children. It is for this reason the MASH Foundation opened a community library at Joska in 2014 with very few books.

The library seeks to help children to learn to read through reading story books and text books. The library also seeks build vast knowledge in children through reading a variety of books. There is no other community library in Joska and children lack such a facility. Over 30 children use the library during weekends but the challenge has been replenishing the library with new books and fresh literature as the children have read all 500 books over the past couple of years. It is our joy to receive the new books from The British School of Bahrain with the help of Ms. Susan Cullen and with new books we look forward to getting more children to visit the library as well as rekindling children’s enthusiasm for reading.

Our hope is to one day to have a mobile library and we can visit schools for children to read books for one full week. Your support and desire to support the MASH Foundation library will go a long way towards impacting children lives positively. We also welcome more donations of books from friends and overseas schools to the community library and in future the schools mobile library. Thank you so much for your kind generosity.

More information on the MASH Foundation Trust can be found at: www.mashfoundationtrust.org

Mr Charles Macharia

Mash Foundation Trust,

Nairobi, Kenya

I would like to thank the British School of Bahrain community for their donations and, particularly Ms. Susan Cullen who coordinated this impressive charitable cause, aided by the Year 10 students mentioned above. Thanks also goes to Ms. Lucy Jones and DHL in Bahrain for their continued support for this project. It will make a big difference to the lives and learning of countless children in Nairobi, Kenya.

Jeff Smith, Executive Headteacher.

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing January 27th 2019

Staff Recruitment Trip January 2019

At the end of each year some teachers leave BSB to take up positions in other schools regionally, return to their home countries, retire or move to promoted positions in other schools. This is quite normal. Across international schools world-wide, on average, between 18 -20 % of teachers change schools. This brings many challenges for international schools and the annual recruitment cycle normally starts around January each year. Our retention rates are better than average.

For the previous two weeks I have been in London recruiting teachers for the Infant , Junior and Senior schools. In collaboration with our Heads of School, Mr Howe and Mrs Gilbert, we have managed to secure 24 new teacher signings at this early stage. We are confident that we will be able to appoint all vacant positions by the end of March. Thank you to our Senior Leadership Team and some heads of departments for carrying out after-hours Skype interviews.

Important date - Year 11 Option Evening starting 3:15 on Monday 4th February

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing January 6th 2019

Start of the New Year

Welcome back to the BSB school community. I do hope you had a restful and enjoyable break.

I am sure everybody will join me in welcoming 56 new students and their families to the school. There seemed to be a very smooth start to the term and we will ensure we monitor how our new students settle in over the next 4 weeks.

BSB is always a busy place, even from the first day of term. Year 13 students have started their Mock Examinations and these will run for the first two weeks of the term. Good luck to all students taking these important preparatory examinations.

I will be in London for the next two weeks , until the 27th January, recruiting teachers for the next academic year. The annual recruitment process is a busy time and there is a great amount of competition to find top quality teachers for international schools across the world. One strong selling point is our charming and engaging students.

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing December 9th 2018

End of Term 1

It is hard to believe we have reached the end of the first term. BSB is a vibrant learning environment and the students are certainly engaging in the many opportunities provided. The school news blogs provide you with a vast amount of information about what has been going on in each school and keep you informed about future events. Please take the time to read about the impressive number of activities our students are involved in and the success so many experience throughout the year.

We have now started our winter break and students return to school on Sunday 6th January 2019.

The staff at BSB would like to wish our students and their families a restful and enjoyable festive break.

Mumming performers would visit different homes telling traditional stories using bright costumes, masks, exaggeration, audience participation, song, dance and stock characters (villain, hero and narrator). The Year 9 students have been sharing all their stories with one another in the main drama studio, to much laughter. The main objective is to give the students confidence and performance experience to prepare them to work on Shakespeare’s ‘Julius Caesar’ next year, which should be a challenging and rewarding undertaking.

Staff Netball Team Victory

On Tuesday 11th December, members of staff from the BSB dominated the Bahrain Expatriate Netball League's (BENL) annual 'Tinsel Tournament' at the Dilmun Club, boasting 3 full BSB teams and a scattering of staff among the other 9 teams in the tournament. The event was an exhilarating affair, with copious amounts of festive joy and banter as well as skilful play and great sportsmanship. The BENL provided players with festive munchies and all player registrations and raffle ticket purchases were donated to The Dreams Society of Bahrain - an outstanding total of BD515 was raised for this worthy cause. Congratulations to all who participated.

Executive Head's News: Week Commencing December 2nd 2018

Ancient Egypt Day in Year 4

There was a air of excitement around the Junior school today as Year 4 concluded their studies on the Ancient Egyptians with a dress parade and by performing songs to a proud audience of doting parents. Later that morning, the children enjoyed an Ancient Egyptian feast. On questioning them, they said the feast was better than school dinners! Thank you to the link parent representatives who coordinated the procurement of the food for their classes.

BSB Staff Training

The school closed at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday so that teachers could take part in this terms Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme.

Teachers were able to choose from a wide selection of 30-minute training sessions that covered many topics of interest. They attended four sessions and shared ideas that can be used to improved teaching and learning across the school. In a final hour-long session, teachers shared their ideas in a 'Teacher Share Fair' session, where volunteers were positioned at tables around the Sports Hall and had 3 minutes to show a roaming audience their best tips from their classrooms. Thank you to all teachers who were highly engaged in the afternoon's activities. Well done to our newly-formed CPD Committee for organising the programme.