Executive Headmaster's News: June 24th, 2021

Above the cloud with its shadow is the star with its light.

Pythagoras

This week the old saying that 'every cloud has a silver lining' has been so true for me. So many times this year, the global pandemic has brought dark clouds to our doorstep. This week's frustration was that our graduation ceremony for Year 13 was forced to be cancelled. In its place, we quickly assembled a stage and a professional photographer to take photos of each BSB graduate and their families. It did not have the glamour and wow factor that the original event would have had, but in its place, it had a wholesomeness and a return to what really mattered; proud parents, proud teachers and delighted students. Each family had time to relax, savour the moment and focus on the thing that mattered most, their child celebrating a fantastic achievement. I felt privileged to stand and watch parents beaming from ear to ear with pride and happiness. The warmth, love, and pure joy on display were overwhelming and will be a highlight of my year. This would not have been possible in the original event, and I must admit my life would have been lesser for not witnessing these moments. Sadly, I could not spend all three days enjoying talking to all the BSB parents and students, for which I am sorry. These personal moments outweigh any glitz and glamour and have made us reflect on what is essential. Next year we will hopefully be able to plan for both events.

With the measures to combat the pandemic causing the closure of school campuses, students were not able to say thank you to their teachers in the usual way. Instead, some classes collected short messages of gratitude from different students and sent these to the teachers, and I was fortunate to be copied into some of these messages. Under normal circumstances, I would not be present to see students thank their teachers and convey their huge appreciation of their care, warmth and teaching. Yet, due to the pandemic, I witnessed this outpouring of admiration and fondness for the talented BSB teachers. The staff are certainly one of BSB's strengths, and I am enormously proud of everything that they have achieved this year. For these teachers, the children are their motivation, which was evident in the messages sent by the pupils.

Of course, many of the graduating Year 13 students began their BSB days in the delightful Infant School and enjoyed their learning journey through the nurturing Junior School before developing further in the enriching Senior School. As I reflect with pride at the graduates' achievements and at how the new Year 12 Senior Prefects have already begun to make their mark, I also look to current students enrolling in the Nursery and Reception classes and wonder what brilliant journeys through BSB lie ahead of them. Thinking about all the developments the school has planned in the future, I know that the school will be different and that they will be able to flourish to become the global leaders of the future.

It has certainly been a challenging year, full of tough decisions and difficult moments. However, it has also been one that has allowed us to reflect on the essential things required to deliver an outstanding education. Our priority has, and always will be, happiness. Happy students are motivated and eager to learn. The BSB teachers have been so talented in bringing joy to students' lives, both in the classroom and online. From dressing up and presenting their favourite pioneer or explorer in Year 2 to immersive and imaginative learning days in the Junior School. There are numerous examples of how fun and joy has once more been injected into learning.

My personal goals are to be happy, healthy and to be surrounded by loved ones

Kiana Tom.

I hope that all of the BSB Community can hold this quite in their heart over the summer. There is nothing more important than being happy, healthy and surrounded by the ones we care about. While in our day to day lives we can be drawn into focusing on other issues and things that can make us angry, the summer holiday is hopefully a time to reflect on the important things in our lives.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: June 17th, 2021

Inshallah, a healthy, stress free summer lies ahead

إن شاء الله، صيف صحي وخالي من الإجهاد

-----------------------

NB. It is still unknown whether schools can reopen their campuses. Please complete the BSB learning poll for the final week of the summer term, to provide an indication of the number of students wanting to return, If we are able to resume in class lessons. We will always maintain our outstanding virtual learning provision.

-----------------------

At the start of this week, I concluded my training and examination to become a BSO (British Schools Overseas) inspector. One of the crucial elements of every BSO inspection is to scrutinise pupil wellbeing. There is an entire standard dedicated to pupil wellbeing and happiness. At the end of this week, I then attended a fascinating workshop, after school hours, on the “Well-balanced Student”. Looking at how schools should develop rounded students, based on experience and research of schools worldwide.

One of the key lectures within the workshop was about stress. The presenter identified that there are many different types of stress and that everyone experiences stress in their lives, which is not a bad thing. Stress is a burst of energy that advises us all on what to do. Stress is not always negative, and, over time, we get better at using stress to inform our actions. For example, when in a restaurant and you are asked what you want to order, this creates stress, which prompts a decision to be made. Experience of this situation lessens the anxiety, and adults tend to find choosing from a menu less stressful than perhaps a young child might. Of course, as parents, we recognise this stressful situation and support our children to make the right choices: “are you sure you want the lobster thermidor? I think that you will prefer the macaroni cheese”. Exposure and handling stress are part of the learning journey; parents and good schools support their children in managing their stress, enabling them to grow as individuals.

The global pandemic has caused a significant upheaval in students’ lives. Gradually, students develop the ability to manage the stress within a school and use it to focus themselves. The rapid change of educational systems, due to the pandemic, has created negative pressure, or ‘distress’, on students. For example, while a test might have been stressful because of the need to remember the content, there is now the added stress of different systems, mechanisms, and procedures to also cope with. The existing stresses of school life have remained, but the pandemic has brought in new ones. Research of schools worldwide has shown that 58% of Senior School-aged students report being highly stressed or very stressed this year. This is a significant increase compared to how students responded before the pandemic.

“The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another” - William James

Negative stress, or distress, can be inhibiting within children. The solutions to it are complex, but only through reducing this stress can students begin to make progress. The greatest challenge facing BSB during the pandemic was minimising stress levels and maintaining our positive, supportive environment. The School is renowned for its inclusivity, happiness and sense of fun. This is reflected in the very low occurrences of poor behaviour and was identified by the visiting BSO inspectors in May. One of the most important aspects in handling stress, is sleep.

Over the summer break, I hope that all families take time to recharge batteries, prioritise their health and especially get more sleep. Whatever September may bring, it will require well-rested students, well-rested staff and well-rested parents. Thank you for your ongoing support, and I wish you a restful break when it comes.

“Never, ever underestimate the importance of having fun.”

- Randy Pausch

-----------------------

NB. It is still unknown whether schools can reopen their campuses. Please complete the BSB learning poll for the final week of the summer term, to provide an indication of the number of students wanting to return, If we are able to resume in class lessons. We will always maintain our outstanding virtual learning provision.

-----------------------

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: June 10th, 2021

The longest of days

Thank you to those men and women who put self aside because they held the thought of us on the inside. So, whether that be the bloodied beaches on D-Day or any number of other battles remembered or forgotten, we now have you on the inside, and we say thank you.

At this point last year, I recall writing about the Normandy beach landings to commemorate the event that changed history on 7^th June 1944. Last year we were looking forward to what the new academic year would bring and the hope that the battle with the COVID-19 virus would be nearing an end. A long year has passed, and yet one could be forgiven in thinking we are in a similar situation. However, I believe we have grown so much as a community in that time; we have learnt so much, been innovative and developmental. We now have many things to look back on with pride.

Two years ago, I had the pleasure of accompanying a school trip to see the beaches of Normandy and to appreciate the sacrifices made on them in 1944. At several points in this pandemic, the world has harked back to the spirit that gave the world at that time the needed determination to continue the struggle for the greater good of humanity. Over the last year, the world’s media has called upon the ‘Blitz spirit’ to engender a sense of belief that all difficulties and struggles do come to an end, provided we don’t give up the fight.

The battle we currently face is different in many ways, but once again, we say thank you to the men and women that continue to put ‘self aside’ and fight on the ‘front line’ against the foe that is COVID-19. Just like in 1944, the bravery of these people makes us eternally grateful. We are enormously proud of the COVID Taskforce and the Ministry of Health for how they have kept us safe during this time.

With three weeks left of this term to go, the British School of Bahrain will continue to provide support, education and care for all BSB families worldwide. We hope to be open for the final week of term, but should this not be possible, we will continue to prove the outstanding online education that has become synonymous with our name.

I look forward to a time in the future where I can take my family to Normandy to pay our respects to those that gave their lives on the battlefields there in 1944. During these days of lockdown, they may feel long, but our resolve needs to stay strong so that we can enjoy the freedom that it will bring.

I wish everyone associated with this fantastic school a restful and safe weekend. Keep strong over the next few weeks.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: June 3rd, 2021

Together

معا , sammen, 一起, samen, ensemble, zusammen, μαζί, Bersama, insieme, 一緒に, 함께, Saam, ด้วยกัน, junto, ਇਕੱਠਿਆਂ, ynghyd

Coming together is a beginning;

Keeping together is progress

Working together is success.

Edward Hale

Throughout this academic year, there has been one theme that has remained persistent. No matter how great the challenge we face, together, we can conquer it. Regularly I get asked by other Principles and Headteachers from around the world why BSB has remained successful throughout this year. My answer is simple; it is the collective strength of the BSB community.

The global pandemic has undoubtedly tested our resolve, and combined with three rigorous inspections, I would be lying if I said there were not times when things were tough. However, what got us through all of these episodes was the support and reliance of the entire school community. No one part can function without the other; parents, students and staff have all strived forward in harmony. Of course, there are times when there are disagreements; it would be unnatural if 9000 people all agreed with each other all of the time. However, a collective belief that together we are all aiming to achieve the same goals is what gives us the motivation to resolve any differences of opinions.

During this recent time of closure, the greatest threat to the health of the BSB Community does not necessarily come from the virus itself, but it comes from the isolation that is caused. Students, families and staff becoming separated from their support network place the greatest strain of all. When I talk to staff or students that have recovered from COVID-19, they repeatedly say that the virus is manageable; the aspect that impacted them most was the necessary self-isolation.

Together we can face any challenges as deep as the ocean and as high as the sky.

Gandhi

Interviewing staff this week for a position in Administration, I asked the question, ‘what are your first impressions of the school?’ Repeatedly the answer was overwhelmingly positive about the collegiate nature of the community and the inclusiveness. These aspects are a crucial part of what candidates were looking for, and in BSB, they could recognise these with abundance. Sometimes, these external views are needed to remind ourselves of how fortunate we are to have all been brought together through our association with the School.

At the core of BSB are our values, one of which is Responsibility. It falls on us all to be responsible for following all advice to control the spread of the virus. This week the rapid deployment of vaccinations for students aged 12 -18 has provided further reassurance. While we believe that the choice to vaccinate children lies with their parents, we have encouraged all BSB families to be vaccinated and to overcome this pandemic collectively. Together we are more robust, and it is this collective strength that will protect us all. With 95% of BSB staff fully vaccinated, we have been able to provide collective resistance to the threat of the virus within the School.

Sadly, the impact of the pandemic means that at this time, we must all isolate ourselves from one another for the greater good of the community. Through these actions, we hope that we will be in a better place, one where once more we can come together. Until that time, I wish everyone associated with this fantastic school the best of health and happiness.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: May 27th, 2021

A smile

Someone once said, a smile costs nothing but gives much.

It enriches those who receive it without making poorer those who give.

It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes lasts forever.

None is so wealthy or mighty that they cannot get along without it, and none is so poor that they cannot be made rich by it.

Yet a smile cannot be bought, begged, borrowed or stolen, for it is something that is of no value to anyone until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile.

Give them one of yours, as none needs a smile so much as those who have no more to give.

At the end of this week, filled with the gruelling BSO inspection, I can confirm that many of the BSB staff are tired, yet they have every reason to smile. The team of eight highly qualified inspectors arrived on Sunday morning and thoroughly scrutinised every aspect of the School’s provision. They departed on Tuesday afternoon, full of praise for everything and everyone at the British School of Bahrain. The BSO inspection team have declared that the School “provides an excellent quality of education for its students”, which is the highest accolade that they can award.

While I have always known that the School is outstanding, one can never tire of hearing professionals from other leading private schools around the world confirm this sentiment. The inspectors recognised the three greatest strengths of the School; the BSB staff, the BSB students and the BSB parents.

The BSB staff, both academic and administrative, was described as ‘inspirational’, and the inspectors were impressed by everyone that they met and the lessons that they observed. Every meeting the Senior Leaders had with the inspectors was rightly full of praise for our brilliant staff, who are so talented but devoid of arrogance and readily give their time and support to every student.

The BSB students were their delightful, inquisitive, and hardworking selves. The inspectors described them as simply ‘amazing’ and were overwhelmed by their good behaviour, positivity and social development.

Last but by no means least, the inspection team praised the BSB parents. They met a small group whom they found to be positive, supportive, articulate and highly supportive of the School. They also read the ideas and suggestions made by parents on the School Development plan and recognised what a strong parental body the School has. On behalf of myself and the BSB team, I would like to thank the parents for their support now and throughout this year. On many occasions, a note, comment or message from a parent has brought a smile to me and to all of the staff.

So, we have reached a conclusion of this chapter of the School’s history. A period of five months during which the School has been inspected three times and has been awarded the highest possible rating in all three inspections. At the end of this week, everyone associated with BSB and especially the BSB staff deserves to smile; we have achieved more than anyone could have hoped for.

I hope that all BSB parents and BSB students keep safe over the next two weeks and continue to find things that make them smile. These smiles are just as infectious as COVID-19, but unlike the virus, smiles spread joy and hope.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: May 20th, 2021

"To this end, the greatest asset of a school is the personality of the teacher."

John Strachan

Following a restful Eid al Fitr holiday, the School community returned to learning in earnest this week. The number of daily cases within Bahrain continues to cause concern, but we have every confidence in the Ministry of Health to bring these figures under control through their advice and the excellent vaccination programme that has been deployed.

This week at School, has been dominated by the final preparations for the important BSO inspection, which we hope will commence on Sunday 23^rd May. Of course, the current number of daily cases of COVID-19 within Bahrain are causing all schools to be anxious, and I regularly receive calls from other School Principals about managing the current situation. However, life must continue and with it the continued improvement of the School.

For BSB, the concerns around the global pandemic are one amidst a few around being inspected during this time. You may think that having been through three inspections in the last five months, we have nothing to fear. However, confidence can often lead to arrogance and arrogance to complacency. While we are confident in our provision, the ethos of the School is to never become arrogant and to always strive to be better. That said, the preparations for an inspection do take a toll on the staff, and I am enormously grateful for how diligent and hard-working they have been in collecting evidence and completing final preparations. The BSB teachers' personalities have shone through during this time.

What keeps me awake at night is whether the inspectors will be see through the regulations and plethora of safety procedures to recognise the genuinely excellent learning and teaching that is occurring every day. The current classroom layouts are necessary to protect the children, but they are far from normal. BSB has always been renowned for its happy atmosphere and the importance that we place on laughter within education. I know that the BSB teachers have sought new and imaginative ways to retain these elements even within the current climate.

As always, we all have to trust in the process, and thankfully I am reassured by the calibre of the inspectors that have been assembled to visit the School next week. I am sure that socially distanced conversations with our wonderful pupils will allow them to recognise what a delight they are to teach. They are a real credit to their families and provide the motivation for all staff.

“A teacher affects eternity; they can never tell where their influence stops.”

Henry Adams

As a BSB parent myself, I know the enormous strain that education during the pandemic has placed on BSB families. From the daily organisation needed to find masks, gloves for PE, complete additional protocols and the large number of communications etc.; the pressure on parents is significant. I must shamefully must that within my family, I don't shoulder the burden of this; however, it makes me enormously appreciative of the support and efforts that all BSB parents have put in to ensure that their family continues to be educated in a safe environment. I hope that the inspectors are able to recognise that the current BSB Education has been the fruit of efforts from parents, teachers and students. Without any of these parts, we would not be in the position of strength that we currently are. While the personality of the teachers makes a great school, I also feel it is the personality of the school's parents that makes it truly exceptional. Every week I received questions, suggestions, thoughts and especially praise for the staff from parents. Each of these adds to the School in its own way, and I hope that the inspection team rightly commends it.

I wish every BSB family a very safe weekend; please be careful, follow guidance and together, we can continue to protect the community.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: May 6th, 2021

"One's life has value so long as one attributes value to the life of others, by means of love, friendship, indignation and compassion."

Simone de Beauvoir

As we conclude another week of the Summer Term, I am grateful that education at BSB continues to thrive. Both online learning and in-class lessons are flourishing, and in particular, it has been rewarding to see the Nursery and Reception aged children making such wonderful progress with their development. Most importantly, I am pleased that we have had another week free from any COVID-19 cases within the School. Regrettably, there have been some isolated cases in families from contact with relatives, but these children were already working remotely, and therefore no contact tracing was required. Sadly there have been cases at other schools that have led to contact tracing of our own students, which has led to them having to move to remote learning quickly. Thankfully, this transition from in-class to remote education is now relatively seamless, and education can continue uninterrupted. In all these cases, we wish the families well, and they are in our thoughts for a speedy recovery.

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly made us value life and made us all evaluate what is important to us, both personally and as a broader society. As I watch the global news, I am sure I am not the only one moved by the scenes in India and the surrounding countries. For many people in these countries, the value of life has taken on a very different meaning. Several members of the School Community have asked if we can coordinate a charitable drive to support communities in India. This initiative is something that I know will be well supported by BSB parents, staff and students. I hope to write with more details in due course, but any ideas from parents are most welcome. Please send them to questions@thebsbh.com.

The value of friendship is at the core of the School and the community that we represent. At the pandemic's peak, it was necessary to keep our distance from friends and family, which was perhaps some of the hardest things we could do because they were such an integral part of the value we attribute to our own lives. As brilliant as the BSB lessons are, these alone were not what made so many students keen to return to the campus when we reopened in September. The friendships, laughter and shared experiences enjoyed by BSB students are what was most compelling. It is also these aspects that our remote teachers in the Infant School strive to recreate with students around the world. Friendship is what fulfils our lives and makes us happier.

While in the Holy Month of Ramadan, we are all seeking to purify our thoughts and actions. At times, anger and frustration are a sign that our inner values are strong. Indignation is a natural human response to something that we intensely object to; this is more than just anger; it is the passion that drives us to improve and to make things better. It filled me with enormous pride to see how BSB students responded to Earth Week and how they continue to drive for change to improve the environment. For this generation, indignation comes from their perception of how previous generations have mistreated or taken for granted the planet we all inhabit. The passion and drive of the younger generations are forcing us all to reflect on what we can do to improve our lives and our values. For me, I look at the way that our students are taking the lead with environmental initiative, and it emphasises that education is a two-way process. While the young are learning from the wisdom and experience of older generations, they are also, through their passion and indignation, inspiring older generations to learn and improve their own lives.

Compassion is something that is at the core of our school’s values and everything that we do at BSB. The way that we treat each other and the respect that we have for other faiths, cultures and opinions is crucial to the School's success. How we treat others is a reflection of how we would want to be treated ourselves. Through this compassion and understanding, we can create a community devoid of arrogance and one that not only embraces differences but celebrates these differences. An understanding that we are all fallible and that we all make mistakes allows us to take the risks needed to be innovative and developmental. Arrogance and intolerance stifle innovation and breeds an unfounded belief that further improvement is not necessary. As a school, and as individuals, we are on a learning journey and one that requires compassion to support this development.

At BSB we hope to add value to the lives of others, within the School, within the local community and all around the world. Through these acts and through embodying our values, we hope that our own lives will be fulfilled.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: April 29th, 2021

Charity bestowed upon those who are worthy of it is like good seed sown on a good soil that yields an abundance of fruits.

The BSB SECO Journal Link: The BSB SECO (Sustainable Environmental Committee Organisation)’s ECO Journal

Parent input to the School’s Development Plan Link: Parent input into the BSB School 5-year Development Plan

School prospectus link: BSB Prospectus

Safe Campus Handbook link: BSB Safe Campus Handbook

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: April 22th, 2021

“Earth provides enough to satisfy every person’s need, but not every person’s greed.”

M. Gandhi

If any parent wants to contribute their thoughts or ideas of how the School could develop over the next five years, please use this link (Parent input into the BSB School 5-year Development Plan) to add your ideas under the six strategic impulses.

The School already has plans for ambitious projects to improve our campus’s environmental footprint, including a significant investment in solar panels to run the entire school on clean energy. I hope to be able to write to all parents with more details of this over the coming months.

The need to protect the Earth is not a new concept, and in 1970 James Lovelock and Lynn Margulis proposed a different theory called the Gaia Hypothesis. In this paper, named after the ancient Greek Goddess of Earth, it is suggested that the Earth should be treated as one living entity. Within this entity, every system, habitat and community are intrinsically linked. Each component must remain healthy for the overall planet to be in balance.

The Gaia theory went further to state that rather than ecology evolving in reaction to changing environmental conditions, in fact, ecology and the physical environment evolve simultaneously, a union of the natural and physical environments, so to speak. An equilibrium is established between the biological and physical worlds which change together, a term often referred to as ‘dynamic equilibrium’.

While only a theory, and in many parts of science it is heavily criticised, the Gaia principle does outline that the relationship between the natural environment and the physical environment is fragile and delicate. This relationship can easily be disrupted, and the equilibrium lost. Even if you do not subscribe to the Gaia theory, around the world, people acknowledge that the equilibrium of nature is undoubtedly under considerable strain and that the relationship between humans and our planet needs to be readdressed. This principle drives us all, especially the students within BSB, to do all we can to re-establish a harmonious and sustainable existence on Earth.

Life clearly does more than adapt to the Earth. It changes the Earth to its own purposes. Evolution is a tightly coupled dance, with life and the material environment as partners.

James Lovelock

In many ways, the British School of Bahrain could be viewed as one entity in which every individual part needs to be cared for separately to ensure the whole school remains balanced. When the COVID-19 hit all of our lives, this sent all school systems out of equilibrium. Thankfully, through the enormous efforts of the BSB staff and the support of parents, the School was able to re-establish that balance very quickly. What is most pleasing to see is that the school has maintained its sense of development and innovation; it still seeks to improve and aims to be a better place to work and study. We could say that we have established a ‘dynamic equilibrium’ where we are once more evolving while maintaining the balance and harmony expected of an outstanding school.

The Earth is not something that we can take for granted, and we must all strive to do our part in improving it now, for ourselves and for future generations. In the short term, I am looking forward to implementing more and more of the ideas of the BSB students, parents and the staff to make our campus ‘green’ both physically and metaphorically while maintaining our dynamic nature of moving forward with education.

I wish you all a safe, happy and relaxing weekend.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: April 15th, 2021

“Without reflection, we go blindly on our way, creating more unintended consequences, and failing to achieve anything useful.”

M. J. Wheatley

It was superb to see the students and staff eagerly return, refreshed from the Spring holiday, this week. Let me start this blog by wishing members of the BSB Community a heartfelt Ramadan Mubarak.

While I do not observe Ramadan myself, I deeply respect the teachings that accompany the Holy Month. The guidance and principles that encourage self-reflection, moderation of language and thoughts, acts of kindness and charity are all highly commendable. This week, I have been in awe seeing the motivation and passion that has driven the Senior Students to launch their Ramadan charity drive, which I know the entire BSB Community will embrace.

All cultures and religions encourage times of self-reflection, a re-examination of our principles and a purification of our characters. This self-reflection is critical for us all; it enables us to improve morally, socially and personally and, through this process, improve not only our own lives but the lives of those around us. In modern society, we see that the dawning of a New Year often encourages people to resolve to improve their lives. The question we often ask ourselves is how sustainable these changes are in the longer term. Are these, often short-term, changes beneficial? Only through long-term changes and the adoption of deep-rooted values will we have a lasting positive impact.

At the core of The British School of Bahrain are our values, not just Excellence, Responsibility and Individuality, but also the values that derive from these. Every BSB student is encouraged to embody these values in their lives both within the school and outside. Developing character is a crucial part of a BSB Education, and we aspire that every student leaves with a sense of their own importance, happiness in themselves and also motivated about how they can change their world for the better. This motivation is drawn from their deep-rooted values and their character.

During the Holy Month of Ramadan, I wish every member of the BSB Community a blessed and peaceful month, and I hope that each of us can carve out time to reflect.

Ramadan Kareem.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: March 18th, 2021

May the best day of your past be the worst day of your future

Irish Blessing

In the week of St. Patrick’s Day, it is fitting to draw motivation from an Irish Blessing as we reflect on our achievements to date and now look to the future. With schools reopening across Bahrain, one cannot help but allow oneself to hope for brighter days to come and a return to a time free from the COVID-19 pandemic. Once more, BSB is busy with children; the grounds are full of students engaged in their PE activities, enthralled in their lessons and eagerly discussing their performing arts. Most pleasing is to see children waving and smiling at each other, reforming friendships and making new ones. This social aspect of School is what our students miss the most, and also what we miss when they are not here.

This time of year is always dominated by Open Days and Transition Meetings. Parents and their children are all thinking about what next year will entail. New BSB families are eager to hear about every aspect of our provision, while existing BSB families are keen to know if the elements that they love are going to be retained as they move into the next year group. As seasoned educationists, we are quite familiar with these transitions, but the annual process is still enjoyable. It allows us to reflect on our provision and also outline what is planned for the future. At times, the busy day to day life of the School means that we are always focusing on the next innovation, the next development or the next improvement following a parent’s comment. Seldom do we actually have the time to sit back and reflect on exactly what makes us so proud of our School. For me, I relish seeing parents and students thinking about their future and seeking the very best education for their family. However, I also take pride in seeing the BSB staff with genuine smiles on their faces, for the most part, because they have been able to convey their love for the School.

At this point in the year, all BSB parents can certainly afford themselves a moment to reflect on their achievements this term. We all hope that the future will be bright. But I also hope that parents will look back on these times with satisfaction. We all hope that these days will, in fact, be known as the ‘worst days’, and we hope to not repeat them in the future. However, these days are a source of pride for me now and reflect how well the community is coming together.

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

And may the sun shine warm upon your face.

BSB Big Beach Clean

It was great to see the small group of BSB staff and students that collected plastic pollution from Nurana Island last weekend. For this week, it has been suggested that we return to Nurana:

Date: Friday 19^th March 2021

Time: 0800 – 1000 (come for as little or as much of this as you want)

Location: Nurana Island – we will try and spread around the island

This is entirely voluntary, and there is no obligation for any member of the community to take part. Keep an eye out for the BSB Flag.

Parent Survey of how they want their family educated in the Summer Term

We hope that the number of cases within Bahrain will decline over the forthcoming months and that on-campus education will still be possible in the Summer Term. We, therefore, need to finalise our planning for the delivery of Blended Learning and Remote Learning next term. Every parent must complete this survey so that we can plan to suit each family’s preferences and needs. Please use this link to access the BSB Parents’ Survey of Summer Term Education: BSB Learning Poll Summer Term April 2021 – July 2021

Mothers’ Day

I hope that all BSB families express their love known to all BSB mothers every day, but especially this week and over the coming weekend. Last weekend Mothering Sunday was celebrated in the UK, and this week we have continued to express gratitude and admiration for all mothers within the BSB Community. I wish every BSB Mother a Happy Mother’s Day and all BSB families a relaxing weekend, full of love and happiness.

John Maguire

The BSB Safe Campus Handbook is available to answer most questions: Safe Campus Handbook.

If any parent has a question, comment or query, please send it to questions@thebsbh.com.

Executive Headmaster's News: March 11th, 2021

The foundation of every state is the education of its youth

Diogenes

With the wonderful news that School campuses are reopening, I am looking forward to welcoming students back to campus on Sunday 14^th March.

This week we have been celebrating the achievements of women throughout the global and hoping to inspire all children to achieve their dreams and not let anything to deter them from these goals.

The BSB PE department received inspirational messages from global athletes and sports stars. It was wonderful to hear from the students how these messages made them feel and gave them the confidence to pursue their own hopes and aspirations.

“One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.”

During the global pandemic, communities around the world have risen to the challenge of continuing to educate the youth during extremely challenging times. BSB has always sought to ensure progress within education continues uninterrupted, and through the support of our parents and the talents of our teachers, we have managed to achieve this.

I would like to share with you two other stories from this week, both of which epitomise BSB’s values of Excellence, Responsibility and Individuality.

Responsibility

A small group of BSB staff have been meeting every weekend to clean different beaches around Bahrain. The School is now keen to extend this BSB Big Beach Clean to all students should they wish to support our initiative and help take responsibility for cleaning up our shores to support the local wildlife. Every week we will nominate a time and location when the BSB team will be collecting beach. For this week, it has been suggested:

Date: Friday 12^th March 2021

Time: 0800 – 1000 (come for as little or as much of this as you want)

Location: Nurana Island – we will try and spread around the island

This is entirely voluntary, and there is no obligation for any member of the community to take part. I know that many BSB students are already part of the Bahrain Beachcombers, an excellent organisation that does great work. I think we can all agree that there can never be too much litter collection; the more we can do to protect the environment, the better. If you or your family would like to join us in cleaning a beach, please feel free to do so. If you do join us, please bring bin bags, a facemask and gloves so that we don’t have to share equipment at this time. All rubbish collected will then be disposed of appropriately at the end of the session. Additionally, if any BSB family notices a beach that needs cleaning, please feel free to contact the School and make a suggestion. Every week we can move to a different location.

An unexpected success of the Virtual Learning Environment has been the regular communication sent by BSB parents to reopening@thebsbh.com. This has allowed us to address any misunderstandings and to alleviate any concerns parents may have. Of course, moving forward, this name does not have any long term meaning once the School reopens. However, we are very keen to maintain this channel of communication between the School and our parents. Therefore in the future, if any parent has a question, comment or query, please send it to questions@thebsbh.com

I hope that all BSB families enjoy a wonderful weekend. We look forward to welcoming students back to the BSB campus on Sunday.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: March 4th, 2021

Reading should not be presented to children as a chore.

It should be offered as a gift.

Kate DiCamillo

While the global pandemic is impacting every aspect of our lives, BSB has always sought to provide children with a point of stability and, through this, the safety to continue to learn. Our outstanding parental support has allowed us to limit the impact on the children as much as possible. At the core of our Virtual Learning Environment is the promise that education will continue uninterrupted during the COVID-19 crisis. I am confident that BSB students will emerge from this pandemic ahead of their peers within the country and the world. The tremendous efforts of the BSB teachers, and the sacrifices of all families, will pay dividends in the longer term.

As part of this ethos, it is always a delight to see our normal annual events continue to be celebrated. This week, we were able to immerse the children in World Book Week. I had the pleasure of reading some of my favourite stories to children in the Infant School on Tuesday. When we return to regular education, there will not be many things about Virtual learning that I will miss; however, the 'mute all' function on Zoom is something I wish I could retain in my teacher's strategy bag! In all seriousness, it was wonderful to see so many happy and eager faces staring back at me from the screen, and the comments from the children brightened the rest of my day.

Reading is something that I always love to see children enjoying. I think that it is even more critical at this time for children to be able to transport themselves to places and times far from their current pressures. For brief moments, they can immerse themselves in countries, stories or adventures beyond our shores. For my family, we always enjoy exploring a bookstore and seeing the diversity and variety of books and stories on display. Thankfully, this is a pleasure that we can still enjoy, albeit with a large bottle of hand sanitiser in tow!

The diversity of books chosen by BSB pupils and staff is reflective of the diversity of our community. The photos and images shown in year group assemblies throughout the school, make it clear that students have found different aspects of books that have endeared them to the story within. Students and staff didn't merely read the cover and say something was their favourite book; they looked deeper inside to reveal the literature's hidden talents. In the same way, BSB students are all different, and this diversity makes us a fantastic educational establishment.

The value of "Individuality" it at the core of BSB. Every student is treated as an individual, and we take time to find their inner strengths and nurture their character. On World Book Day, when I see the smiling faces of the students holding up their books, I think that this is not only a celebration of reading, literature and education, but it is also a celebration of what is best about BSB, its individuality.

As the weekend nears, enjoy a time free from screens, and hopefully, you will have time to immerse yourself in a good book.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: February 25th, 2021

An Octopus’s garden…

I hope that the entire BSB Community had a restful and relaxing half term break. Sadly, we cannot return to our beloved school campus, and it remains very quiet, with the silence only broken by the sounds of the building work, to continue to improve our facilities. We all long for days in the near future when children can safely return to the School, and it will then be their laughter that permeates these walls. Thankfully, this half of the term has several music activities that will add variety and excitement to our school life. Today saw the resumption of Good Morning Performing, and it was a delight to watch the amazing talents of our staff. I am also looking forward to seeing many BSB students at the Bahrain Young Performers’ Festival on 18^th March 2021 and trust the performers are learning their parts. If you have not registered for this event, I encourage all students to do so, there is a category for everyone.

Maintaining the musical theme for this week, the 25^th February is also an interesting date in the history of popular music. On this day in 1969, a small band from Liverpool entered the Abbey Road recording studios to begin the creation of their 11^th and final album. The entire album took over six months to make. Being in close proximity to each other for long periods of time certainly took its toll on the band. The resilience and determination needed to complete this work is something that I believe we can all relate to at the moment.

I ever in awe of the efforts of all BSB parents to ensure that their children’s education continues uninterrupted. The excellent learning opportunities provided by the outstanding BSB teachers are being seized upon by the ever-resilient and determined BSB pupils, supported by their parents, who are continuing to enjoy their learning.

The song ‘Come Together’ launches the Beatles icon album, which is quite apt at the moment.

A time when reconvening and ‘coming together’ of friends and family is possible is something that we all crave. For BSB, having the entire School’s population safely return to the campus is what we yearn for, and we continue to improve our numerous protocols and procedures in preparation for this time. Regrettably, the number of cases within the wider community means that it is not appropriate for schools to return to campuses.

It is at this time that we all must find our own ‘Octopus’s garden’, where we can be warm, beneath the storm and hide away, beneath the waves. The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly been a storm, and many parts of our lives have been sent into turmoil by these crashing waves of the virus. However, the School has always sought to steer a steady path through these turbulent waters, and I am enormously proud of how the School has not only coped but has continued to improve. We will emerge from these dark times in a stronger position and will continue to establish ourselves as a leading school in the wider Gulf Region.

We all hunger for the return to our everyday lives when we can resume so many aspects that we currently miss. It will take a strong effort now, and for all of us to be careful, so that we can live free from this virus later in the year. I genuinely hope that this day will be soon.

As the winter fades and the summer nears, I am confident that schools will return and campuses will be safely repopulated. A song from the same album, ‘here comes the sun’ will sumarise our feelings at that time. As the Beatles so rightly sing: “the smiles are returning to the faces”. While it may seem ‘like years since it has been here’, happy times will return, and we will look back with pride on how the community collectively pulled together during these months to control the spread of the virus.

We all need to hold off ‘coming together’ so that when the ‘sun does come’, we will all be able to say……… ‘it’s all right’.

Have a wonderful weekend, and keep safe.

If you have a free moment this weekend, I recommend reading our outstanding BSB Student Magazine – The Monthly: https://www.thebsbmonthly.com/

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: February 11th, 2021

All the world is a birthday cake, so take a piece, but not too much.

George Harrison

In our preparations for the BQA inspection, we became consumed, as is typical in an inspection, by searching for evidence and the proof of what we all knew; that BSB continues to be a beacon of excellence at this time. However, it took our ‘visitors’, the BQA inspectors, to remind us just how fortunate we are to work in such a school as BSB, with such caring teachers, supportive parents and brilliant students. At the feedback meeting, it was a pleasure to hear about what they had seen, and the joy they had gained from listening to parents, engaging with students, and observing lessons. It was a timely reminder to not be complacent and to be grateful for what we have. For many schools and their families across Bahrain, our provision is something that they aspire to achieve.

This week someone kindly shared an analogy with me about how the restrictions the country has put in place to tackle COVID-19 are like baking a cake.

Ingredients

To make a great cake, you have to add all the right ingredients. Each ingredient is essential because it does its bit to combine to form something delicious. You cannot ignore any ingredient; otherwise, the cake will spoil. In the same way, the measures that the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain are implementing at the moment to tackle COVID-19 each play their own part, each is a vital ingredient in ensuring the successful control of the virus. From vaccines to social distancing, to washing hands, wearing masks, staying home or whatever the measure may be, all are equally important. If people choose to ignore one of these measures, it will delay the overall control of the virus. It is up to us all to ensure that we don’t leave any of the ingredients out and that we all play our part in the campaign to eradicate this virus from our lives.

Baking

Baking is the most critical part of any cake making. A key aspect is patience, the ingredients have to be given their time to merge together. You may well walk into the house and be greeted by the smell of a cake baking; however, this doesn’t mean it is ready. If you open the oven door too early, the cake will be ruined. In the same way, we need to be patient, and committed, to the ongoing battle with COVID-19. All of the regulations need to be given time to work. Equally, if the number of cases within the country starts to decline, this doesn’t mean that we can ‘open the oven’ too early and return to our everyday lives. This will only see the hard work ruined. Patience is the key to success.

As half term arrives. I wish everyone associated with BSB a restful break. Take time away from screens, time to relax and possibly even time to bake a cake or two. If you do, please share your baking efforts with us (reopening@thebsbh.com), it is always wonderful to see the fruits of our talented students’ labours. Most importantly, we need to keep safe, keep being careful and keep up our efforts to control this virus.

We hope that all schools will be able to return after half term. We will inform the BSB Community as soon as we hear any news either way. Until that time, have a wonderful break.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: February 4th, 2021

Executive Headmaster's News: January 28th, 2021

In school, you are taught a lesson and then given a test.

In life, you are given a test that teaches you a lesson.

Tom Bodett

This week, the notification of our imminent and greatly anticipated BQA inspection has caused the normal soul searching and examination of our provision that always happens when a school gets inspected. We are right to have confidence in our provision, it is the envy of many other schools and has enabled children to continue to their education despite all the ‘tests’ that life has thrown at it. However, all great schools have one thing in common: the constant pursuit of improvement. I, therefore, hope that the inspection next week provides opportunities for the celebration of what we have collectively achieved, and also fresh thoughts and ideas for the future.

At times I can find myself at my computer far too much, consumed by the paperwork, regulations and developments that are a requirement of this role. Thankfully, whenever I need re-energising, I only have to venture to a classroom or meet a student in the library to quickly bring back the motivation needed to continue the pursuit of improvement. Most pleasingly my study has been filled, this week, with the sounds of laughter, giggles, cheers of encouragement and music. Of course, I am referring to the excellent Infant School Spirit Week that saw all the children venture to the Astroturf in their bio-bubbles and enjoy various activities that had them running and jumping around obstacles, while also cheering their peers. As much as I know that our lessons are stimulating and enriching, it is these days that the children enjoy most and the ones that they will remember for weeks to come. Never in my entire teaching career has an alumnus said to me ‘do you remember that fun lesson when we learnt about aeolian landscapes?’ But many a time they have reminisced about trips, sports matches, plays, festivals, concerts, events and days where they have simply had fun.

The pursuit of joy and happiness have been key priorities for us this year. We have continuously sought events, activities, competitions, and ideas that have allowed the children to smile, laugh and bring joy to their learning. With all school campuses closed for the next three weeks, it will be these sounds of laughter that teachers will miss. Happiness is at the core of BSB, and it is what makes us such a successful school. It is also what I believe has allowed the students to display such strong resilience at this time. They have certainly been tested by life during a pandemic but have learnt from this lesson and continued unabated.

My meeting with the Senior School prefects is always a highlight of my week. They bring to the discussion fresh ideas and hope for the future. Nothing ever seems impossible to them, which is a sentiment that I always seek to reward and nurture. This drive has seen them deliver on such ambitious and successful projects as the School’s student magazine the BSB Monthly. At present, the pressure and fear of the unknown circumstances surrounding their examinations are taking its toll, but they still have time to apply their energy to improve the whole school and raise the spirits of the community.

As we virtually welcome the inspectors next week, and the scrutiny of our teaching and educational provision, I hope that they can also take time to recognise the aspects of the School that are much harder to measure. The values that we nurture in the students, the support that we receive from our parents, the happiness that permeates our lessons, and the resilience that has grown in every student. BSB pupils are very good at learning lessons and passing tests, but what makes them outstanding is their approach to life and how they tackle the real tests and challenges that they face.

I wish you all a very good weekend. We will miss the students terribly over the next three weeks. But we are here for every BSB family should you need support in any way. Please stay safe and be careful.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: January 21st, 2021

Al Liwan – a gathering place

When I wrote to all parts of the BSB Community last week, I did not know what was ahead of us and how different sitting down to write my blog in a quiet school would feel. It is the continuing narrative of this pandemic, that things change quickly and that we must adapt to new challenges and requirements. We did not envisage that we would be moving to remote learning this week, yet it has proceeded exceptionally smoothly, and education has continued uninterrupted. I am always impressed by how quickly teachers, students and parents adapt and adjust during this time. With luck, things will be less turbulent in 2021.

This week, I thought I would share some positive news and outline something in the future for us all to look forward to. On Tuesday, the Senior Leadership Team were kindly given a tour of the complex neighbouring the School. Over the last 12 months, we have been referring to this development as the new Seef Mall, which has now been aptly named Al Liwan. As we walked the soon to be completed streets, it quickly dawned on us that to call it a 'mall' does not do it justice. A more appropriate reference for Al Liwan would be a 'neighbourhood', and an impressive neighbourhood at that.

As a newcomer to the Arabic language, I was quickly educated on the meaning of Al Liwan, which can best be translated as a gathering place or a square around which a community can collect. The Italians would refer to these as piazzas. Its equivalent would be the village green in rural England, and in English towns, it would be the marketplace. Over the years, all societies have naturally collected around a central point to share in the collective pleasure of being a community. Built around this concept, Al Liwan will attempt to capture and nature the natural Bahraini spirit to collect as a broader community. Of course, this will not be possible at its initial opening due to social-distancing. Still, Al Liwan has been built with a sense of permanence and history in mind, perfectly captured by the 300-year-old Olive tree that greets all visitors as they arrive.

Facilities such as a seven-screen cinema, two enormous state-of-the-art gyms, children's recreational entertainment, a gigantic supermarket (one of the biggest in Bahrain), and high-end boutiques and shops nestled between appetising restaurants, are all part of the ambitious plans for Al Liwan. 50% of the units have already been taken, which is impressive in the current economic climate. The School has been promised to be granted full access to these amenities as we wish, which will further diversify and enrich our provision. I am hopeful that Senior School sport will benefit as well as opportunities to take all the students to events as a treat at the end of term and raise the School's spirits.

Most importantly, Al Liwan has already proven to be the perfect neighbours to the School. We have looked on the site as it has risen from the desert over the last twelve months and now wait in anticipation for it to open in March. While we can see how students will benefit enormously from what the neighbourhood has to offer, it is also the BSB parents that will be able to enjoy the facilities.

For me, a crucial aspect to aid the future development of the School is that Al Liwan management has promised to provide luxury accommodation at a price point that is affordable to BSB teachers. This asset will allow us to continue to attract the very best teachers from around the world and within Bahrain. Securing outstanding staff is at the core of our strategic development over the next five years, and this has been aided by the support of our generous neighbours.

I am sure that the BSB Community are looking forward to Al Liwan's opening at half term as much as we are. A positive note at the end of this week that promises that there are improvements on the horizon.

I wish all the BSB Community a very relaxing weekend and implore all staff, students and parents to be very careful, to protect their bubbles and to ensure that strict COVID precautions are adhered to.

Executive Headmaster's News: January 14th, 2021

Just because you can, doesn't mean that you should.

At the end of a busy week, and one in which there has been much turmoil, I am looking forward to a weekend of watching something more tranquil. The cricket test match between Sri Lanka and England, which starts today, is a something I have long been anticipating. It was a shame that the One Day International (ODI) match between the UAE and Ireland was cancelled earlier in the week; however, the more extended version of the game is always my favourite.

While I would never claim to be much of a cricketer, this never stopped me from donning the pads from time to time and taking to the square. As time has progressed, my love of playing has been superseded by a love of watching and listening to the game. Now my summer holidays are often narrated by the Test Match Special team's dulcet tones in the background of anything that we are doing, much to the frustration of my family.

For those of us who love Cricket, one episode that is a blotch on the games' long history occurred during the Ashes tour of 1932-33. The English team, led by Douglas Jardine, travelled to play their archrivals, Australia, in their home country. The Australian squad counted within its ranks the greatest batsman of all time, Sir Don Bradman, who could devastate any bowling attack. Faced with such daunting opposition, the English captain, Douglas Jardine, came up with a different tactic, one that was intended to restrict, frustrate, and hopefully dismiss the famous Australian batsman. Jardin relied on his fast bowler, Harold Larwood, to bowl ferocious deliveries deliberately aiming at the Australian batsmen's chest and body. The intention was not to give the Australian batsmen, especially Bradman, room to play attacking shots. This bowling attack was supported by fielders being placed in a close ring on the leg side, so that should a batsman attempt to defend himself from being hit and injured, the ball would be caught by one of these fielders. The tactic became known as 'Bodyline' because of its clear intention of aiming to hit a batsman in his unprotected body and either hurt him or cause him to defend himself and get out.

The Bodyline tactic that Douglas Jardine designed was entirely within the laws of the game. It was also incredibly effective. Don Bradman finished his career with a test average of 99.94. Yet, during this Ashes tour of 1932-33, he scored considerably fewer runs and averaged 56.27, which was the lowest average of his entire career. The question was raised at the time, and often debated since, regarding the ethos behind these tactics. Just because it was allowed within the laws of the game, does it mean that it was the right thing to do?

The Bodyline tactic led to a revolution within the game of Cricket. Many new laws were brought in so that this tactic could not be employed again. Furthermore, there is now one law within Cricket that supersedes them all; the law dictates that all actions must be 'in the spirit of the game'. This law allows an umpire or the authorities to stop something happening or punish someone for doing something, even if what they are doing is permissible within the laws. It is considered that their actions are not in line with the ethos of the sport and those who play it.

There are many lessons that I have taken away from Cricket, including patience, teamwork, and that you have to deal with whatever life 'bowls' at you. However, for me, the most important aspect is that one must always strive to do the right thing. An ethos or belief is more powerful than any rules. For this reason, at BSB, we are working hard not to teach people to simply follow the rules, but to nurture students who want to always do the right thing. Through this, we aspire to educate those who want to improve others' lives and change their world.

A key part of the School's ethos is Excellence, Responsibility and Individuality. These values are much more powerful than any set of rules that we can establish. We strive to ensure students live their lives through this ethos and become the future leaders who will then set the new laws. Doing the right thing is the most important thing that anyone can do.

In the game of life, we must all play within the spirit of the game. Just because you can, doesn't mean that you should. Many more people remember Don Bradman than Douglas Jardine, not only because of what he achieved but also in the way that he achieved it.

I wish you all an excellent weekend, hopefully watching an over or two.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: January 7th, 2021

A toast to new beginnings

______________________________________________________________

A Toast!

To new beginnings,

In fear and faith, and all it tinges.

To love is a dare,

When hope and despair,

Are gates upon it hinges.

Anon

As the New Year commences, all of us dare to hope that with this new beginning will come a time where fear, anxiety and despair are replaced by joy, happiness and freedom. In 2020, the global pandemic undoubtedly did more than 'tinge' our lives; however, there is still much to be thankful, and hopeful, for as we embark on the new year and a new term.

At this point in 2020, as the new year dawned, it was a fresh beginning for myself and my family as we commenced the next chapter of our personal journey in Bahrain. A year later, we have quickly grown to love this wonderful country, made great new friends and become part of the BSB Community. The School has changed over the last year and we have made significant improvements to our teaching, learning and pastoral care, which will be part of our provision for many years to come. Of course, this was not the year that any of us anticipated and for all of the BSB Community we have been held in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic for far too long.

2021 brings with it opportunities for new beginnings. At the start of the term, many more students and their families have been welcomed to the BSB campus. Either for the first time, as new students, or as old friends returning from working remotely. It continues to be a highlight of my day to see the students in their lessons and the happiness on their faces as they arrive every morning. The School's promise of always delivering the best possible education, within the constraints of the external challenges, remains strong, and the staff continue to work tirelessly to ensure learning is not disrupted. We still have many students at home or abroad, with families waiting for employment opportunities within Bahrain to be realised, or with students working remotely to protect vulnerable family and loved ones. These children are eagerly awaiting a time to come to the BSB campus and rekindle friendships or form new ones, and the staff are all waiting for their arrival. We all hope that, in time, this will be possible.

Over the course of this year, I am sure that we all hope that international politics continues to strive for peace and collaboration. The global pandemic has reminded us how connected and interdependent we are as nations; this interconnectivity relies on a desire to collaborate for the greater good of the global community. Countries around the world are already making strides towards greater co-operation, and within the GCC ties are continuing to be strengthened, and harmony nurtured. Of course, in the United States of America, 2021 brings with it a new President. Following recent media images and news stories, I am hopeful that peace, harmony and unity can quickly return to the USA.

Many of our expectations for 2021 rest heavily on the shoulders of the COVID-19 vaccines. The deployment of not one but two vaccines is testament to Bahrain's excellent leadership and determination to recover and rebuild following the COVID-19 pandemic. BSB's Senior Leadership are strong proponents of the vaccines. The Heads of each school and I have already been either vaccinated or it is due imminently; two of us with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine and two with the Siopharm vaccine. We are encouraging all members of BSB staff to be vaccinated, and as a community, we yearn to be able to suppress and eventually eradicate this virus. We believe this is made possible through mass vaccination and thank the Bahraini leadership for facilitating this so quickly.

Over the weekend, I hope that you will join me in raising a toast to new beginnings and all the promise that they bring. I wish the entire BSB Community a Happy New Year and hope that it is a year full of health, prosperity, and peace.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: December 10th, 2020

“Merry Christmas!

What right have you to be merry?

What reason have you to be merry?”

Ebenezer Scrooge

A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens

At this time of year, whether you celebrate Christmas or not, one cannot escape the build-up in the shops and on television to this event. In a globally connected society, we are inundated with the influence of media, which at this time of year is dominated by the festive season. At present, my own house seems to be regularly populated by The Christmas Chronicles (1&2), which I must admit I am yet to watch the entirety of either film; nevertheless, moments spent with the family are still highly valued time. While I may not find myself relating to the characters within these two films, at this time of year, I have always enjoyed the classic story of A Christmas Carol.

The well-known Dickensian story, which has been adapted many times since, centres upon its main character Ebenezer Scrooge, an accountant whose miserly ways bring forth visits from four ghosts. The first ghost, Jacob Marley, Scrooge’s former business partner, heralds the tormented night that lies ahead for Scrooge as he is due to be visited by the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present, and the Ghost of Christmas Future.

At present, BSB has many ‘reasons to be merry’. Parents within Bahrain and all around the world are reflecting on what is essential in their lives, and an outstanding education for their family continues to remain a priority. The School is rightly popular, and we have an increasing demand for places throughout the School. The reasons for this interest in a BSB education are abundant when you walk around the campus every day. A happy atmosphere permeates the classrooms, and within them, friendships are made. Once again, children are pleased to see, hear and laugh together. Lessons are stimulating, and learning is happening.

I wish everyone associated with BSB a very relaxing and safe winter holiday. Eat well, be merry, and don’t let there be any mention of ‘bah humbug’.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: December 3rd, 2020

Motor racing is 99% downs and 1% ups. It’s a huge challenge….

Nigel Mansell CBE

British former F1 World Champion

While absorbed in the day to day running of the School, the enjoyment of new projects such as the Beyond BSB initiative, and the excitement of beginning our five-year strategic development planning process; there has still been the odd moment when I could indulge myself in other interests. You can generally tell what is in the back of my mind by what cufflinks I am wearing that day. For this week, they have had a prominent theme:

The dramatic Bahrain Grand Prix race last Sunday brought home the perils of motor racing and was a timely reminder of what drivers put themselves through for this sport. Many of us sat stunned by the scenes that unfolded at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), and we all breathed a deep sigh of relief when we saw Romain Grosjean, the Haas racing driver, stride out of the burning inferno into the arms of the awaiting medical team. I thought that the events that unfolded that evening put Bahrain in a positive light; the first responders, of which we are all very proud, performed their duties with courage and skill to positively address the situation. Quick thinking and good fortune combined to make the incident have a happy ending. I was also delighted to see the ingenuity, and talents of the BIC team to redesign and repair the barriers in order for the race to be restarted. On behalf of the entire BSB Community, we wish Romain a speedy recovery.

While listening to this exciting talk, there were some points which made me reflect on the successes of BSB as well as the successes of the Bahrain Grand Prix. Firstly, that 3000 F1 team members and personal descend on the BIC as part of each racing event. Having had to lead the brilliant BSB team in setting protocols to allow for the safe arrival of 2600 people to the BSB campus every day, and keep them healthy, I have a great deal of sympathy with the BIC management team for the challenges they face, and admiration for how they managed the event last weekend.

My second thought focused on the fact that this weekend’s race will be televised by SKY Sports to 80 countries around the world. While BSB can proudly boast 82 different nationalities within our staff and students, it reminded me of how fortunate we are to live in such a globalised society within Bahrain and how the country shines as a beacon to all. This diversity of culture is one of the country’s and the School’s strengths and that international connectivity, often through media, is crucial in a prosperous modern society. The next generation will regularly be engaging with a multitude of nationalities, cultures and beliefs. Preparing our students to thrive when they graduate the School is a crucial part of a BSB education. We aim to nurture the skills, knowledge and values in every BSB student that will prepare them to be the global leaders of their chosen fields in the future.

I was also struck by the fact that the Bahrain GP was the first Grand Prix to be held in the Middle East. The hunger, innovation and desire that must have lain behind such a bold initiative is highly commendable. Writing our School Development Plan, over the next few months, we hope to emulate the same values and ambitions as those that begun such an endeavour as the Bahrain GP, back in 2004.

This weekend’s race sees two new drivers, Jack Aitken and George Russell taking to the grid. At BSB’s core, is the ethos to seize opportunities whenever they are presented, and we wish both of these younger drivers the best of luck as they make their mark on the pinnacle of their sport.

Last weekend brought to mind so many positive aspects of both Bahrain and BSB, and I am sure this weekend will live up to expectations. With BSB’s Bahrain National Day preparations being finalised, I hope that we can continue to celebrate the aspects of Bahrain that we all love.

I wish the entire BSB Community a happy weekend.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: November 26th, 2020

Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness and gratitude

Nigel Hamilton

British Author

For many of the BSB Community, who have ties to America, this weekend marks Thanksgiving, a time when families collect together and are grateful for all they have in the world and for the warmth and happiness that a loving family brings. While many of us do not actively celebrate Thanksgiving, it is still a timely reminder for us all to be grateful for the things that we hold dear.

For me, this week has been pleasantly dominated by times that remind me to be grateful for what we have at BSB. Every day there are always moments that make me thankful for the brilliant teaching and Administration staff, the fun and engaging BSB students, and the supportive and caring parents.

The poll will close at 12:00 on 6^th December.

I wish everyone associated with BSB a warm weekend, celebrating and being thankful for all that we have in our lives. For our American BSB families, I especially wish you a happy Thanksgiving.

Keep safe and well.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: November 19th, 2020

"The greatest legacy one can pass on to one's children is not money or other material things accumulated in one's life, but rather a legacy of character and faith."

This week various media outlets around the world have carried fitting tributes to the legacy of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The School Community alongside the entire Kingdom of Bahrain continues to mourn his passing, whilst reflecting on the positive impact that he made on the country that we all love, during his almost 30 years as Prime Minister. Many of the published obituaries focus not only on what His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa achieved but also on the manner in which he achieved it. His actions are a positive reflection on his strength of character and the values that he held dear.

Character forming values are at the core of all outstanding schools. Education should be more than merely the academic learning that occurs within a school's classrooms; it is about developing the whole child to become a positive influence on the world that they inhabit. A school's international reputation is not built on the academic results that its students achieve, but on how the students conduct themselves and the successes that the school's alumni enjoy when they graduate. I have a strong philosophy that a student never really 'leaves' a school, yes they may graduate; however, if the school has been right for a student, then a piece of it should always be carried with them for the rest of their lives. This influence is often epitomised in the character and values that a school nurtures, by working with its parents, to shape a child's personality, while giving them the freedom to be themselves.

An aspect of the rich character of BSB has been on show this week, that of determination. The students throughout the School have been desperate to raise Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer awareness through the Think Pink & Blue Movember initiatives. Twice our days of activities have been postponed for various reasons; yet, all students were keen for this vital message to be understood. The tenacity, determination, generosity and compassion shown by the students have been wonderful to observe. In every part of the School there has been the creation of artwork, events, and activities to bring these important charities to the forefront of our minds.

Over the next few months, we embark on the process of creating our new Whole School Development Plan for 2021-2026. At the centre of this development plan will be the values that shape every aspect of BSB as a prestigious international school. Of course, the School's values of Excellence, Individuality and Responsibility will remain at the core of everything that we do; however, over the coming weeks, we will seek to collaborate with our parents and our students to establish the character-shaping values that they believe BSB should be developing over the next five years.

A legacy is earned, but not necessarily purely through one's actions. A legacy is built upon the way in which we live our lives and how we carry out these actions. It is these values that will define who we are.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: November 5th, 2020

Wearing a poppy for Remembrance

Towards the end of this week, the global press has been dominated by the ongoing political elections within the United States of America. There are many aspects of this election that are of interest to me, on a philosophical, political and emotional level. The fact that the US elections coincide with the commemoration of Remembrance week has also been particularly poignant. Every time in my life that I have voted, there has always been a part of me that has been grateful for the people throughout history, and equally at present, who have put their lives at risk, or lost them, in defence of the way that we lead our lives and the freedom that we enjoy. In many countries, this freedom is epitomised by the ability to vote.

This week the School has been commemorating the act of Remembrance, through the sale of poppies and within assemblies. Under normal circumstances, we would be doing much more, and acts of Remembrance would include welcoming the Chelsea Pensioners to our school and entertaining them with our school choir. Sadly, under the present pandemic, it is now another event that has had to be put on hold until it is safe to resume our normal day to day lives.

The words of John Edmunds (1916) are quite apt:

“….for your tomorrow, we gave our today.”

I wish everyone a very restful and relaxing weekend. Keep safe, healthy and grateful for what we have in our lives and for the sacrifices of others who have enabled us to have those things.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: October 22nd, 2020

Executive Headmaster's News: October 15th, 2020

Each and every one of us has at least one flaw, none of us is perfect. This is the truth, and while it is vital for each of to be self-reflective and regularly identify our strengths and weaknesses, we should also not strive for perfection. Self-analysis is an essential aspect of all BSB students and staff; it is only through this process that we can hope to improve ourselves; however, we must also remember that weaknesses are what make us human and make us different; we should not always strive for unachievable perfection.

The reason that other artists had begun to use this large block of marble and then give up was that the marble contained a significant internal flaw. This weakness had prevented them from using it. Fifty years after initial attempts to use this enormous block, it still was unutilised and discarded simply because people could not see past its faults. It took a true master to recognise its potential, to see what it could be, not just see its faults, and that genius was Michelangelo.

Up until this point, the biblical figure of David had typically been displayed in an aggressive and triumphant pose, commonly depicting his victory over Goliath. This would not be possible within this block of marble because of its weaknesses. Michelangelo, therefore, decided to create a different pose for David, one that worked with the flaws, not against them and used them to shape something unique. The result was one of the finest pieces of Renaissance art in existence, and it is still one of Florence’s most popular attractions. Before COVID-19 prevented us from enjoying the finer things in life, such as a visit to a museum or an art gallery, Michelangelo’s David was regularly viewed by over 8 million visitors every year.

This masterpiece of ‘perfection’ was all because of an inner flaw.

At BSB we seek to find the excellence inside everyone. We look past the faults and flaws to see the potential of what someone can become. It is in this nurturing environment that children can sculpt themselves in the way that they want to be, and at times celebrate our variations, for it is these differences that also make us individual.

Have an excellent week, celebrating individuality and tolerating each others’ flaws.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: October 8th, 2020

Executive Headmaster's News: October 1st, 2020

A time of mourning is a time for reflection

At this time of the news of the sad passing of Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah, the entire BSB Community honours his legacy and mourns his loss. This period of sadness is also a time to reflect on the achievements and accomplishments of such a great man, who always sought to improve his country, the region and the world. The Global media is currently full of obituaries which outline his achievements, and these are enjoyable to read not only to celebrate his life but also to reflect on how each of us can aspire to improve our own characters.

Of course, the nature of obituaries is that none of us ever gets to read our own. However, there is a poignant story about one man who was fortunate, or in his case unfortunate, to read his own obituary. This man was Alfred Nobel.

Thankfully none of the BSB students needs to worry about their obituary just yet; they have many happy years ahead of them. However, if each of us were to read what people remember about us now, would we like it? Metaphorically speaking it is always important to reflect on how we all live our lives and ensure that we are happy with the values we embody on a daily basis.

We all have the ability to change; we all have the ability to create the image that we want people to think of us. But we need to make sure that this is a positive one. My challenge to all the BSB Students is to reflect on what you do well and what you could do better:

• Could you work harder in your studies?

• Could you be a better friend?

• Could you be a better son or daughter?

• Could you be a better brother or sister?

• Could you do more for your local community?

The passing of such a great man as Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah is undoubtedly a period of reflection for all of us. During this time, we should take inspiration from a life well lived and from someone who wanted to make his country, the region and the world a better place through his actions.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: September 24th, 2020

Know when to turn back, and when to ask for help

The Saltwater crocodile is one of the deadliest species of reptile in the world. It can grow up to 7m long and weigh over 1000kg, when fully grown. Despite their size and weight, the power in their body can propel them at astonishing speeds in the water and are even known to jump vertically out of the water to catch their prey.

I wish everyone at BSB a safe weekend, free from danger and look forward to next week.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: September 17th, 2020

I expect to pass through life but once.

If therefore, there be any kindness I can show or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again.

William Penn

During the dark clouds of this global pandemic, one thing that has continued to shine through is the generosity, positivity and kindness of the BSB Community.

At this time, people have naturally focussed on themselves. The desire to protect ourselves is a strong compulsion, especially from an unknown entity, and the nature of the COVID virus has also made us highly suspicious of others. However, it is at times like these that we must show not only our own strength of character but also our positive growth mindset.

Little gestures of kindness can carry much weight during this time. Someone’s day can be lifted by something as small as a morning greeting from a student. A pupil that not only smiles and says hello but also takes the time to ask how this member of staff is, can make all the difference. It is these acts of kindness that we need to continue to encourage within BSB. As an inspector of schools around the world, these little touches of politeness and kindness are not as common as you may think. I have been into many schools where the students will push past you on the stairs, or not hold a door open for someone to walk through. They may seem small and trivial, but these pupil habits will often reflect the core values of the school. For me, the little acts of kindness that we see every day around the campus are one of the greatest strengths of BSB; it is not something you can teach; it is only something that a school, and its parents, can nurture in every student by sharing the desire to think of others.

Contained within our school’s ethos of Excellence, Responsibility and Individuality are a number of essential values; those of empathy, humility, compassion, tolerance, politeness and kindness. I would hope that our holistic education does more than just teach academics; it should foster the character traits needed to be successful inside and outside of school life. Character traits that will stay with someone long after they have left BSB. While we are able to continue a student’s academic education remotely, it is these other aspects of an outstanding BSB Education that are more challenging (though not impossible) to replicate through distant learning.

Last week I commended all the students, both those on campus and those working remotely, as being a credit to their families. The positivity in which they have engaged with their learning while maintaining safety protocols is admirable. Of course, this is only possible by the hard work of the staff throughout the school. The challenge of not only enforcing strict safety measures but also learning an entirely new way of teaching cannot be underestimated. I know from the daily messages from parents that you share my pride in what the staff have achieved to fat this year. Once more, these small acts of kindness can have a larger impact.

Taking each day, one at a time may make this term feel longer, and at the end of just our third week, it already feels like we have learnt a lot. However, within each of these days, we should continue to strive to inject kindness into our daily actions, to continue to think of others and to support all of those within the BSB Community.

I wish you all a safe and healthy weekend full of small acts of kindness at home.

John Maguire

Executive Headmaster's News: September 10th, 2020

One day at a time