8th march, 2019 important dates whole school …...8th march, 2019 volume 7, issue 131 contents...
TRANSCRIPT
8th March, 2019 Volume 7, Issue 131
CONTENTS Featured Story Whole School News From the Head of School From the Primary Principal Primary Learning Focus From the Secondary Principal Secondary Learning Focus From the Head of Boarding Introducing From the PTA
IMPORTANT DATES March 7th - 9th - Boys & Girls ISACI Tournament at ISH 13th - PYP Parent Workshop 13th - 16th - MUN, Dubai 13th - 16th - Oz Swim Clinic 15th - P5 Production 19th - Whole School Swimming Gala 20th - Francophonie Day 22nd - 23rd - Stonehill Inter-School Hackathon 29th - PYP Music Concert
Featured Story
Learning Hub 2019
Featured Story
The second annual Stonehill Learning Hub took place on Saturday 2nd March, with over 200 teachers from across India in attendance showing their commitment to developing and extending their teaching practice. Almost all of the Learning Hub workshops were run by our talented teachers, who enthusiastically shared their skills and expertise with a wider teaching community. The day started with a short address from the Head of School, Simon McCloskey, who got teachers thinking about gender inequality and the impact that their own vocabulary in the classroom can have on students. Teachers then attended three workshops throughout the day. Workshops focussed on subjects that included technology integration, differentiation, inquiry, student agency, transdisciplinarity and the IB PYP enhancements. It was also the inaugural event for the Indian SENIA (Special Education Network In Asia), chapter, SENIN, an initiative set up by our Learning Support Department. The Learning Hub served as a good example of what happens when IB educators come together to share ideas with a spirit of generosity, curiosity and open-mindedness. Thank you so much to all our teacher workshop leaders and event planners who made this event such a success. We are lucky to have so many experienced teachers willing to share their knowledge with others. The feedback from visiting teachers was overwhelmingly positive and most of them hope to return to the event next year. The Learning Hub Committee #SISLearningHub
Whole School News
Inaugural Special Education Network and Inclusion Association Conference
SENIA India held their initial conference at Stonehill International School’s Learning Hub in Bangalore on 2nd March 2019. Members of the board and other interested teachers met and discussed how inclusion works in their schools, things they are proud of, and some of the challenges that they are facing. Many of these challenges were common to all schools, so we hope to develop our network of contacts to support inclusion and professional development opportunities across India. Angelle Thibodeaux, SENIA India board member and SENIA teacher representative from the American School of Bombay, shared her expertise in meeting sensory needs with over 45 teachers. Learning Support, Homeroom and Specialist teachers were eager to find out how they can better support their students. Not only was the session very informative, with lots of ‘ah ha’ moments, it finished with some practical activities using yoga balls that could be taken back to the classroom and used immediately. For our final session, Lia Bartholomew from The Autism Teaching Institute in Melbourne and a Stonehill parent, further developed teachers’ understanding of Autistic Spectrum Disorder, and how to meet the needs of autistic students in mainstream settings. With over 25 teachers in attendance, Lia shared practical strategies, resources, responded to questions and even offered to support teachers via email and in their classes. We are very grateful to have such an amazing resource available to us. I would like to thank the teachers who attended the conference and shared their energy and enthusiasm with us all. Ms. Maria Hamblin Head of Learning Support at Stonehill International School SENIA India Chairperson #SISlearninghub #SENIAIndia
Whole School News
Swim Australia Teacher Certification
Stonehill is proud to announce that we are beginning an affiliation with the Oz Swim Aquatics company. We will have three instructors coming from Australia to Stonehill for 3 days to support us, and the Stonehill Government School, to develop our swimming programmes. During this time the following sessions will be taking place:
● 10 Stonehill staff completing their Swim Australia Teacher Certification ● Student Swim Clinic ● Parent Swim Clinic ● Stonehill Government School Introduction to Swimming ● Introduction to Swimming Coaching (for aspiring swimming coaches)
We would like to welcome any interested Stonehill parents to join the swim clinic sessions. This is an opportunity to have your stroke technique analysed by experts, and learn how to improve your efficiency in the water. Beginners are welcome. Please complete this form if you are interested: Parent Swim Clinic Sign Up. We are pleased to have been selected for this partnership by Oz Swim, and look forward to welcoming the instructors to the Stonehill pool. Stonehill PE Team
Whole School News
Supporting our Local Community
This week, members of our school community visited the Stonehill Government School to inaugurate two new buses. Our school has partnered with the IT company, Mphasis, to help provide school transportation for students to improve access to education. The buses will offer school pick-up services to five surrounding villages, enabling students to reach school conveniently and raise attendance levels. Mphasis donated the buses and Stonehill International School will handle the ongoing management. The measure is a response to dropping attendance levels at Stonehill Government School, as students face increasing difficulties of commuting from nearby villages. This action is expected to have a profound impact on bridging the attendance gap, empowering students to attain new levels of educational achievement and removing one more infrastructural roadblock to success.
Shaina Ganapathy, a member of Stonehill’s Governing Council, said, “This is a unique project in which we were requested by the Government School to assist in tackling their issues with decreasing attendance. Through our Corporate Connect Programme, we approached Mphasis to join us in providing a solution to the school. Stonehill International School already manages its own fleet of buses, which made them a natural partner. This is an example of a government and local school joining hands with a corporate to enhance the lives of socio-economically disadvantaged students and create deep and sustainable impact.”
Whole School News
Book Week 2019
We enjoyed a week of wonderful activities designed to promote a lifelong love of reading. We also enjoyed participating in workshops led by visiting author Steve Skidmore. The week culminated with a Book Character Parade this morning, led by a marching band. Students and staff dressed up as their favourite fictional characters in a variety of creative costumes. It was a wonderful way to end an exciting week of activities. We will share more photos next week.
From the Head of School
Building Work Begins Work is now well-underway on our new PYP Creative Arts Centre and Secondary STEM Block. This week, we have been discussing the interior fittings and designs with the architects in Singapore and with the construction company here in Bangalore. We are very excited about the new creative and innovative learning spaces that will be available for our students. Below, you can see the initial architects impressions of the outside of each building. The buildings will include design and technology labs for robotics and resistant materials, purpose built science labs and maths classrooms, a suite of instrumental practice rooms, a black box drama studio and purpose built art and music rooms. The Creative Arts Centre will also feature an outdoor performance area.
Simon McCloskey
Creative Arts Centre
STEM Building
Simon McCloskey Head of School @SimonJMcCloskey
From the Primary Principal
Learning Hub Stonehill hosted a very successful Learning Hub on Saturday, 2nd March, with 200 teachers from across Bangalore and India. Stonehill teachers led workshops on learner agency, the PYP exhibition, differentiation, the role of games in mathematics learning, the role of the teacher in play and transdisciplinarity. We also had two outside presenters; Angelle Thibodeaux from the American International School of Bombay who led a session on sensory integration and development; and Lia Bartholomew, from The Autism Teaching Institute in Melbourne and a Stonehill parent, who’s workshop was on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Karen Crooke
Thank you to all presenters - we appreciate the time and energy you used to ensure your workshops were interesting, applicable and meaningful. In addition to the workshops, there was lots of networking in the hallways and around the lunch tables. Chef Arjun and his team did a great job with providing food for all intervals and our Facilities Manager, Mr. Praveen, and his team supported workshop leaders by ensuring the rooms were set up appropriately. Thank you. A BIG thank you to the organising team - Mr. Anthony, Ms. Maria, Mr. Ron, Ms. Amanda and Ms. Sonia. Your organisation was superb. Ms. Sonia also spent her day troubleshooting, and we appreciate this additional time. Book Week Book Week is underway. Ms. Lamiya and her team put together exciting activities for the children to participate in - from listening to stories in home languages, to buying books from the Book Fair. The children and teachers have participated fully. Our culminating activity was a dress-up day with many creative costumes. It was such good fun! PYP Coordinator Mr. Anthony has been out of school this week. He is participating in a Council of International Schools (CIS) evaluation in Beijing as Assistant Chairperson of the evaluating team. Just like our evaluation earlier in the year, his team is evaluating the school against CIS benchmarks. He will be back at school on Monday. SAIBSA PYP Job Alike This official IB event takes place on Saturday, 9th March at Neev Academy in Bangalore. Both Ms. Amanda and Mr. Anthony are leading workshops for this event. Other Stonehill staff members are also attending the workshops in order to grow themselves professionally. We look forward to bringing back new gems from the Enhanced PYP that will ensure Stonehill continues to grow and change. Karen Crooke Primary Principal
Primary Learning Focus
P7 Break Through Camp
The Break Through Camp is a place where young people can experience and satisfy their need for physical activity, creative expression and true participation in a community environment.
This became a reality for P7 students when they went on a residential trip to the Break Through Camp for two nights and three days. It gave them a chance to work as a team, take responsibility and make informed choices during various activities, as well as develop creative skills and gain confidence. They had many opportunities to solve problems, make social adjustments with people and the environment, and gain new skills. Some of them were able to overcome their fears, and discover new things about themselves and their friends. It was a perfect platform to explore and exhibit all the attributes of the IB Learner Profile. P7 Teaching Team
From the Secondary Principal
D2 Parent-Teacher-Student Conference The D2 Parent-Teacher-Student conference was held on Wednesday, 6th March, with over a 100 appointments booked. Thank you to all the D2 parents and students who attended the conference. Secondary Book Week Book week started on 4th March and ends today, 8th March. This year, we had renowned author Steve Skidmore from the UK running workshops with secondary students. Thank you to Mr. Premson for organising this extremely engaging week.
Narendra Mehrotra
D2 IB Exam Presentation On Wednesday, 6th March, I met with all D2 students regarding IB exam study techniques, strategies, time-management, organisation, time table and various resources. I have also shared the presentation with both students and parents. Please be assured that we will do everything possible to support them in this final phase of their journey at Stonehill. Thank you for all your help and support throughout the DP. Issues or Concerns Regarding your Child If your son/daughter has any problems at school, please contact (by email) their Homeroom Teacher or the relevant Subject Teacher directly in the first instance, and then the Head of Department or appropriate Coordinator (MYP or DP), if required. Please do not call on their personal mobile number during class time or outside of school hours. Early Leave and Late Return During School Holidays I have noticed that several parents book tickets and then inform us that their child will miss school due to flights. This is not acceptable and will be treated as an unauthorised absence. Parents are not encouraged to withdraw children during term-time for vacations. Parents are also asked not to ‘leave early’ or ‘return late’ in order to extend scheduled school holidays. In cases where students will miss routine classes because of voluntary absence, the school does not provide extra work for them to take on vacation. The school is sometimes asked to ‘authorise’ absences during school time for family vacations or other trips. It is not the school’s policy to do so. If a student’s attendance falls below 90% during the course of the year (without extenuating circumstances), parents will be asked to attend a meeting with the Principal. The school reserves the right to request students to repeat the year if attendance is lower than 90% by the end of Semester Two.
From the Secondary Principal
ISACI Cricket and Volleyball The Boys Cricket and Girls Volleyball teams left on Thursday, 7th March to The International School, Hyderabad to take part in the ISACI tournament. The students were accompanied by Coach Avinash, Coach Zoe, and chaperons Mr. Karan and Ms. Vandana.
Upcoming Events
● 13th - 16th March - MUN trip to Dubai ● 19th March - Inter-House Swim Gala ● 20th March - Francophonie Day ● 22nd - 23rd March - 24-hour Codeathon ● 1st - 3rd April - M5 e-Assessment Practice
Exams ● 4th - 6th April - ISACI Swim Gala at TBS, New
Delhi ● 5th - 7th April - Tournament of the Minds,
Chennai ● 12th April - Mid-Semester 2 Reports
Released ● 12th April - Talent Show ● 13th - 21st April - Mid-Term Break
Narendra Mehrotra Secondary Principal
Secondary Learning Focus
M4 & M5 Explore the Method of Socratic Circle Discussions
In Geography lessons, M4 and M5 students participated in an extensive discussion through a method called ‘Socratic Circles’. Socratic Circles are a method of discussion and exploration that we use in the IB classroom in many different courses. The main emphasis in this method is dialogue and exploration, as opposed to debate and argument. The philosopher Socrates emphasised the importance of asking questions instead of giving answers. It is this emphasis on questioning that guides Socratic Circles in the classroom.
Socratic Circles are designed to build meaning and understanding of a text or concept, in a collaborative fashion. They help in developing skills of reading, listening, reflecting, critical thinking, and participating. Each class was divided into two groups in their respective grade levels. One group (inner circle) discussed the subject and their research on it, while the other group (outer circle) took notes on the discussion, focussing on how the discussion was carried out, as well as the content of the discussion.
Students used a variety of resources during the discussion. After thirty minutes of discussion by the inner circle, the outer circle gave feedback to the inner circle; after that the two groups switched their roles.
At the end of this exercise, the M4s realised that deeper research is essential for a coherent and consistent discussion, and the M5s felt that discussion allowed them to set the tone for writing future essays like the Extended Essay in the DP. Mr. Srinivasan Kandaswamy Individuals and Societies Teacher
From the Head of Boarding
Giving students an opportunity to have their say is an important factor in any school environment. Through our Boarding Reps, we encourage students to bring their ideas and organise boarding activities - student suggested weekend activities are highly encouraged! Local shopping, movie nights, or game nights are held almost every weekend.
Over the past couple of weekends, boarders have enjoyed activities including an evening excursion to Phoenix Mall in Whitefield; the Aero India 2019 show and fun games at the new sports hall such as belly baseball and dodgeball!
Glen Johnson
It is pleasing to see a number of our boarders represent Stonehill at the upcoming ISACI Cricket and Volleyball tournament held at ISH this week. Best of luck to both teams!
Weekly Boarding
If there are any parents who may be contemplating taking up the option of weekly boarding, please feel free to contact me at any time ([email protected]). I would be happy to show parents through the Boarding Houses and to discuss the advantages of weekly boarding.
Stonehill boarding has a dedicated Twitter account, you can follow us at @BoardingSIS
Upcoming events
● Tuesday 19th March: Whole School Inter-House Swimming Gala ● Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd March: Stonehill Hackathon ● Monday 1st April: M5 Practice Exams ● 4th to 6th April: ISACI Swimming Tournament at TBS, New Delhi
Mid –Term Break
Boarding closes for the Mid-Term Break on Friday, 12th April from 4:00 pm. Boarding will reopen on Sunday, 21st April at 4:00 pm. Classes resume on Monday, 22nd April.
Glen Johnson Head of Boarding
Introducing
Each week we feature a Stonehill Teacher in our weekly bulletin. This week we interviewed MYP and DP Teacher, Yasmine Claire. Qualification and certifications: M.Sc Clinical Psychology, PGCE Sunderland University. What do you teach at Stonehill? Psychology, Theory of Knowledge and Language and Literature. Where are you from and where else have you lived? I have lived most of my life in Bangalore. What inspired you to become a teacher? The little girl that was me throughout my school life. I was often disorganised; buried in books I read whenever I could; hopeless in Maths; and frequently the despair of my teachers. I wanted to try and teach students, the way I wish I had been taught, to make amends to that girl.
Yasmine Claire
What is your educational philosophy? I believe that education is about what a learner takes away from the class. This is not necessarily a concept, but that they were appreciated; cared for; and had victories, both big and small. For me, education is about making spaces that are safe, about healing wrongs, about the confidence to think for oneself, and to take risks that make the world better. What made you choose Stonehill? I chose Stonehill because of the warmth and acceptance that I found for everyone who is a part of it. What is the best part of your job? The spark in the eyes of my students when they have enjoyed a lesson. What are your hobbies and interests? I read a lot; I love to write and may someday fulfil my dream of writing ghost stories; I love animals and work to make their lives better; I try to live a life where I consciously reduce contributing to the suffering of humans and animals as much as I can. What is your favourite book? Difficult question! I love speculative fiction, fantasy and graphic novels. What is your favourite music? 70s Pop, Jazz and Blues.
From the PTA
Save the Date - Saturday, May 4th
The Stonehill PTA proudly invites you to our annual PTA Charity Gala! Celebrate Stonehill’s 10th year of excellence and diversity with your community. This coveted yearly tradition not only serves to raise funds for our beloved adopted charities, but also brings our community together. Save the date and enjoy an evening with your friends, while making new ones! Information on time and location will be shared with you, shortly.
Save the Date Friday, March 15th
Please join us for this delightfully informative talk given by Kaveri Sinhji. Friends and family are welcome! The event will be from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at the Administration Building. Coffee, tea and light refreshments will be served.
We look forward to seeing you,
Team PTA