Dear Parents
Festive Spirit
A briefer newsletter than last week, as we all wrapped up a hugely successful term in preparation for the break ahead. This week has been about consolidating our achievements to date, and getting into the festive spirit. For example, we finished the term today with our annual 'Pantomime', and, behind my character guise of "Naughty Boy", it was a delight to see all the student body through themselves into the fun and community of the event. (Thanks to Rowena and David Bracken for making this happen!) A lovely way in which to finish a lovely term. At the Residence, festivities abounded also, with their Christmas dinner at Villa Maura on Wednesday night. Everyone was dressed up and it was a really nice way to finish the term. They also celebrated secret Santa on Monday night and some fantastic gifts were exchanged.
Year 13 TOK
Fiona Wong, my PA, and I were privileged to join our TOK teachers (Richard Edwards, Chris Rieger, Stephen Holmes and Dmitri Haas) at the ICC for part of the scintillating two days of TOK presentations. Our Year 13 students did us and themselves proud, with several stars shining especially bright, many students braving and conquering inherent inhibitions, and the room being filled with profound ideas about all areas of knowledge and ways of knowing. If you are interested in finding out more about this crucial part of the IB core, please click here.
Student Voice
The new Student Residence Committee met for the first time last week and a number of positive ideas were suggested, strengthening Student Voice at the Residence. Meanwhile, at school, Natasha and Isaac's new Student Voice team had their first meeting, and their energy and enthusiasm are already refreshingly palpable. I can't wait to see the dividends of a stronger, more tangible Student Voice throughout the Secondary School from now on.
Business as usual
Of course, for our Year 11 and 13 students, their mock examinations loom large in January, and Years 7, 11 and 13 will all have reports and parents evenings in the first month of next term, but I hope there is time during the break for some down-time too, as we all strive for that perfect 'balance' not only espoused by the IB Learner Profile but also central to the value we place on the emotional wellbeing of our students as they continue to strive for academic excellence.
Eco-reminders
After the Eco-meeting on Monday, we have a couple of reminders for you all. While enjoying a sunny walk along one of Brunei’s beautiful beaches, why not look for some interesting drift wood that could be entered as a piece for the Drift Wood Competition as detailed on the notices page of this website. You stand a chance to win $100, as part of the competition being run by the Eco-Action Group. I know I can count on your support for this precious initiative. On a similar note, remember that the glorious ISB calendars are still available from the Main Office throughout the holidays (only $10 each). Please visit the shop during office opening hours.
Good to outstanding - strategic planning
The Secondary Leadership Team (me and my leadership colleagues - Stephen Holmes, Anne Malabar, Richard Tyler, Dave Bracken and Fiona Wong) met for seven hours on Wednesday afternoon/evening to review the term and begin planning strategically for the future. It was an amazingly productive meeting, and a privilege to work with such a strong and visionary team on a long-term, strategic view. I now look forward to exploring these manifold issues with all stakeholders, as we continue to strive for consistently outstanding provision. The PTA was also busy on Tuesday evening, exploring their own strategic direction, and how best to support the school in ways which benefit the maximum number of students with as sustainable an impact as possible.
Seasons greetings!
Whatever you are doing this vacation, and wherever you are doing it, I wish all parents, staff and students a happy, safe, healthy and recuperative break. I look forward to seeing you all again in January.
Best wishes
Matthew Savage
