BSB School Magazine - April 2009

Issue 3 - April 2009 Visit the BSB website at www.britishschool.ro

The British School of Bucharest Magazine

Students Dress up for World Book Day

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World Book Day this year was another very colourful event with teachers and students alike dressing up as their favourite fictional characters.

The day is intended to promote a love of reading and to inspire children to pick up a book and read. It was certainly a fun day with lots of interesting activities organised.

Key Stage 4 & 5 Bake Sale Sells Out

read more on page 8

BSB Students to receive International Award The British School of Bucharest has recently introduced the ‘Duke of Edinburgh’ International Award to Key Stage 4 and 5 students and, as a lead in to this, the Outdoor Activities Club to Key Stage 3 students.

BSB is now an official International Award Centre and as such is be able to provide students the opportunity to work toward receiving their Bronze, Silver, and eventually Gold International Award. The award

involves outdoor pursuits and community work and is intended to build confidence and provide leadership skills. It is also very helpful when applying for university.

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Not to be outdone by the other years, Key Stage 4 and 5 students baked through the night to make sure that there was a delicious array of temptations on offer at their Bake Sale, which took place on Friday February 27th.

Parents enjoy Open Day Variety

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BSB Open Day, held this year on Thursday March 12th, provided parents with an opportunity to watch students involved in a wide variety of learning activities across the school. It was a day thoroughly enjoyed by parents, students, and teachers.

Contents · Editor’s note · The Craze of the Week · BSB Book of School Records · Principal’s Report · The Front Desk · Key Stage Reports · Student Spotlight · School Council Secondary Report · Student Council: Friendship Day · Where are they now? · BSB students set sights on International Award · Big Green Poetry Machine Competition

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· BSB Celebrates ECO-Day · The Primary Eco-Committee · The BSB Radio Show · Introducing “The Brass Family” · IGCSE Art & Design · World Book Day · The Annual BSB Secondary School Public Speaking Competition · Bake Sale Report · Life in Year 10 · Foundation Stage Curriculum · Primary Curriculum Update · Working through the Primary ICT Curriculum

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· Mathematics Primary Curriculum · From the Primary Literacy - Coordinator · Mysteries of Mars and Earth · Puppets and Puppetry · History in the Primary School · Survival Skills University · Primary School Poetry Contest · World Maths Day · Trip to the French Institute · If at first you don’t succeed, “Try Try Again!” · Secondary ICT · Artefacts and English · Mr Murchison on the Artifact

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Assignment · What’s on the Menu for Science next year? · The Mathematics Curriculum, · Years 7-12 · Primary School Open Day · Year 4 Open Day · BSB Open Day 2009 · Primary House Competition Update · Secondary House Competition Update · Class Pages · COBIS Conference Prague, for Leaders and Teachers · BSB Pub Quiz enjoyed by all

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· BSB Secondary School Receives preliminary Inspection 33 · CACHE Level 2 Certificate for Teaching Assistants 33 · German Club 34 · Greek Club 34 · The BSB Monthly Ladies Lunch enjoy Caru cu Bere hospitality 34 · Indoor Rowing Club 34 · Spy Club 34 · Important Dates 35 · BSB Summer Fair 35 · A Big Thank You to the PTA! 35

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Editor’s note I think if we scanned this issue and did a word count on each word used, one of the words with the highest

frequency scores would probably be the word SPRING. It feels like it has been a long winter and so it was with a sense of relief that I flicked my calendar over to April and reset my clock an hour forward. In many ways, this issue sits on that nebulous boundary between seasons, and as such there is a feeling that it looks both backward at what the students have experienced and achieved at BSB in the last few months and forward toward the end the of the year and the SAT, IGCSE exams, school trips, what most consider to be the highlights of the school year, namely the summer productions, the BSB Summer Fair and Sports Day: for a more comprehensive list of what you have to look forward to in Term 3, please turn to page 35.

The focus for this issue is the BSB Curriculum. Many parents would like to know a little more about what we teach and how we teach it, and for this reason we have tried to provide you with a range of articles that focus on important areas of the curriculum in the Foundation, Primary, and Secondary years. There are articles on the core curriculum areas, including articles on English, Maths, and Science, as well as increasingly important areas in the world today, such as ICT and Design and Technology. There are also two pages of articles on the BSB Open Day, which was an opportunity for parents to come in to school to see the students in action, and in this section you can read all about the UK Curriculum initiative toward cross curriculum learning, which was also

a focus point at the recent COBIS conference in Prague attended

by Ms Jen Kemp and Mr Brad Hamacher.

As with the last issue, what is overly evident in this issue is the fact that it has been another very busy few months, with lots of special educational days celebrated and a wealth of activity going on, including a variety of schools trips and a number of events relating to the school curriculum. There is also an article on the International Award, which BSB is now proudly able to offer students aged 14 and above.

I’m sure you will read a lot more about students working on this award in future issues. So without further adieu, I leave you to enjoy the rest of Issue 3.

Happy reading Mr Kendall Peet

The Craze of the Week While at a conference in Prague this past February, I was introduced to ‘The Craze of The Week’ by ‘Circle Time’ guru and author Jenny Mosley. ‘The Craze of the Week’ is implemented as a way to structure playtime activities by introducing weekly games; allowing everyone to learn and participate in new ways to have fun. Not only is the ‘Craze’ a great way for children to acquire new skills, but it is also a way for all of the students at BSB to come together.

In order to start up the ‘Craze of the Week’, I decided to ask the students and teachers about their favourite games and it’s amazing how many different games I was introduced to: Fun Ball in Australia , Tip Top in Pakistan, Clock Hop in Portugal and 4 Square in Canada, just to name a few. Some of the games were the same with different names, while others were unique to their time and place.

Regardless, it was agreed that the ‘Craze of the Week’ was wanted at BSB. So, on March 3rd we began the ‘Craze’ with the Conga Line. Starting with 48 students and teachers on Tuesday and culminating with an outstanding 165 on Friday! We followed the Conga line with Dodge Ball, skipping and 4-Square, with many more to come. If you have any ideas feel free to share!

Mr Brad Hamacher, Craze of the week enthusiast

BSB Book of School Records The BSB Book of School Records is a book where we will record all of the schools records. Our first record was, as I am sure you all remember, the conga line which we also did as part of the Craze of the Week! We managed to get about 165 people. At the moment we are still making the book. If you have any ideas about things we can safely do for a school record, please write it on our notice board which will be coming up very soon.

Rhys, 6D

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Teachers and Students of all ages join the Conga at BSB’s first ‘Craze of the Week’!

The Year 6 Boys ready to attack in a friendly game of DodgeBall

Ana from 4K throws a high ball during a friendly game of DodgeBall!

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Principal’s Report “ Dear Parents and Friends of BSB

As we all prepare for a relaxing spring vacation it is a great opportunity to reflect on the work of the previous two terms and all that has been achieved by our students and staff.

Undoubtedly the next term will be the most challenging and the busiest time of the year, as reports are prepared, production rehearsals take place and school trips are organised.

It is a particularly important term for our Secondary students who are taking their IGCSE examinations this summer, the culmination of a lot of hard work over the two year courses. While the syllabus has been followed closely for each of the subjects, the examinations are an end to many years schooling where a foundation has been built upon across the curriculum, so our students’ success will also be a testament to all their teachers and schools, all their experiences, and subsequent learning to date.

Jo Puddy-Wells

I was very pleased that Mr. Peet asked for a curriculum focus for this issue as it is a great opportunity for teachers to share information on some of the learning that takes place at school, and for families to better understand the British system that we follow.

As part of our quality assurance we do make sure our staff attend conferences and courses focusing on changes and developments to the curriculum, and some reports on CPD are shared in this issue.

Upon our return we will be undertaking our full ISI inspection in the week beginning the 4th May, this will be led by Dr Martin Bradley and he will be accompanied by four other inspectors. Thank you to all those families who took the time and trouble to complete the questionnaires, Dr Bradley visited mid-March for the preliminary two day visit, and remarked on how impressed he was by the high return of forms.

All that remains is to wish you a wonderful holiday and we look forward to seeing you all at various events in the summer term, particularly the Summer Fair on the 6th June.

“

Jo Puddy-Wells principal@britishschool.ro

The Front Desk

If you need any information or help in regard to your child’s education and support at BSB, please do not hesitate to contact our office team during normal working hours, 8.00 am 5.00 pm , Monday - Friday.

For general enquires or specific help relating to school transport, student lunches, or sports and clubs, please contact:

The British School of Bucharest Magazine

Tanya Biryukova Office Manager Email: office@britishschool.ro Tel: 021 267 8919 Fax: 021 267 8969

Cristiana Patru or Adina Suciu Email: office@britishschool.ro Mob: 0728 133 432/3 Tel: 021 267 8919 Fax: 021 267 8969

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Visit the BSB website at www.britishschool.ro

Newlands Head of Primary

As the focus for this issue is Curriculum, I thought I would write a little about the Primary School Curriculum, which has several areas of specific focus for each year. Our general aim for this year has been to become more creative and innovative within our curriculum, while still retaining the important foundations of breadth and balance. In the last issue I

spoke about how our curriculum made learning at BSB more fun and innovative, through initiatives such as university, special subject days and cross curricular work. In addition to these general aims, we also have specific areas of the curriculum which we want to focus on each year in order to raise standards and increase their status. This year we are having a closer look at writing, at scientific enquiry skills in Science (AT1), at raising the profile of Design and Technology (DT), at Geography – we want to build our previous success by attaining the Silver Award and also at ICT. That is not to say that the other areas of the curriculum are not also being catered for, but rather, this is where we have all made a special effort to develop a subject area. Around the school you can see evidence of our focus through displays, such as the DT displays present throughout the Primary buildings or the Writing Target displays common on many walls, or through staff training and development which happens each week and on dedicated training days.

Science has been boosted this year through the creation of the weekly science challenges, the science clubs running every term

Crawford House

Secondary School

Spring is finally on its way. The garden is just beginning to come into bloom, the snow has finally disappeared and I can once again open my window and let the sunshine in. It is also my pleasure to welcome 4 new students: Nikita

(Year 7), Jonathan (Year 8), Chi Bum (Year 9) and Soo Min (Year 10). I hope you will all be very happy at BSB. In January, Year 11 students sat their mock IGCSE examinations and are now in earnest preparation for the external examinations which begin in March and run through until June 10. The teachers are busy preparing students for the examinations with revision papers and advice on study and writing techniques, and the students themselves will now be focused on the end goal.

During February the Secondary School welcomed Ms Valerie Blackburn to Crawford House.

Ms Blackburn is an Ofsted Inspector and Consultant based in the UK. She is a secondary school specialist, and came at our invitation to see what the Secondary School offers in terms of education, resources and facilities. On her return to the UK Mrs Blackburn completed a report in which she commented upon the good range of building and resources, the calm atmosphere and definite sense of purpose, pleasant well behaved children

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and through the University courses offered by Miss Ullman, our resident science expert. She has also been providing a lot of training and information on how to increase the children’s skills in scientific enquiry. In the last term there will be a lot more science excitement with a planned Science Symposium, Science Day and our G&T class are going to provide a Space Day for the KS2 classes. The teachers have all been involved in providing as many opportunities as possible to get the children involved in practical geography. Map work and field work have both been a big focus for the staff and Mr Harrison has been leading us all in finding opportunities for the children to experience these vital areas of the curriculum first hand.

Mr Williams has provided us all with expert knowledge and advice on Design and Technology and Mr Leese has been providing regular training to the staff on all the latest technology which the school invested in and has been encouraging and supporting us all to use these to the best effect with the students.

As both Assessment and Literacy coordinator Miss Tyler has been working hard with the Primary SMT, the teachers and pupils in order to make a difference to the general

and approachable staff. Ms Blackburn offered very sound advice about how to move the secondary school forward and was pleased that teachers have made a very good start planning development effectively, which in turn promotes the development of pupils both as learners and as individuals. I hope that Ms Blackburn will return to Bucharest to review the progress made in the Secondary School.

On March 12th the whole school hosted an Open Day. Ms Kemp organised a very special day for the secondary students. Chocolate was chosen as the central theme and all teachers came together to combine their knowledge and skills. This enabled students to experience and appreciate that subjects are not exclusive and there are many cross curricular links which lead to skills development and understanding.

Mr Kelly and Mr Mulvany are busily working with the students in preparation for the secondary school production, which this year will be held separately to the primary production. You will no doubt be hearing many

standard of writing throughout the school. The targets the children bring home have played a large part in this year’s aim.

All the staff take responsibility for an area of the curriculum and all are involved in providing the best, most creative and innovative learning experience for the children. Each year the focus of the curriculum changes and different teachers take the lead in driving forward improvements, focuses and initiatives but without everyone’s support and hard work we would not be able to continue to give the best learning experiences possible to our pupils.

During the last, and often busiest term, the teachers in Primary will all continue to challenge and refine their own teaching practice as we strive to succeed in our goals and learn from each other. All the teachers work incredibly hard in all the areas of the curriculum and it is wonderful to see the difference it makes to the work of the children.

We are all very excited by what will be achieved after the break and I hope the students come back well rested and ready to meet those exciting challenges. Have a wonderful holiday.

Ms Naima Hussain, Head of Primary

ABBA songs being sung around your own homes and possibly find your furniture being moved around in order to practise the dances. Mr Kelly and Mr Mulvany will be writing to you in the near future to tell you more about the production. I am already foot tapping and humming songs myself – I think we have a real treat in store for students, parents and teachers alike.

Events happening in Crawford House over the next few months include the Years 8/9 ‘Take a Parent to Work’ scheme, the productions, sports day, the summer fair, and the Madrid trip.

Add to all this their academic studies and end of year examinations, and it is likely to be a very busy few months.

I hope that over the next few months I will be able to meet with you at the many events taking place, or even at school if you wish to come in and take a look around to see daily life here in Crawford House – you are always most welcome.

Ms Jane Greenwood Head of Secondary

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Key Stage 1 Update

Well it’s been another successful term here in KS1. It was great to see so many parents and guests during our Open Day and we hope you enjoyed observing the great teaching and learning that goes on here at BSB. Over the last term we have celebrated many events including Friendship day during which Years 1 and 2 made friendship bracelets in their House Teams. The children thoroughly enjoyed Book Week and everyone (including the teachers and TA’s) looked marvellous in their costumes. World Maths Day was a roaring success with classes logging onto the site to gain valuable points for the school.

Bravo to everyone who took part.

The summer term is going to

Key Stage 2 Update

bring many more fun activities for our pupils. Both Years 1 and 2 will be organizing school trips in the coming weeks. We will be arranging a Science Day this term and following the success of last year I’m sure it’s going to be electric! Our playground is undergoing some changes; we are busy setting up an outside area which will be used as an extension of the classrooms. In warmer weather classes will be able to work outside in the colourful and engaging environment. The space will also act as a creative area during playtimes, where children can draw and write if they so choose.

wide range of exciting activities, and all the children seemed to be enjoying themselves.

Foundation Update

a good opportunity to enhance children’s learning. As you know, we are always watching children to find out their interests and we shape our planning accordingly.

We try to do the same with field trips, for instance, Reception B went to a real supermarket to enhance the role play they were doing in class, Gafencu Preschool class made a visit to the Train Museum because their teacher noticed that the children were often working with the train set in her class, Gafencu Reception class visited a local restaurant to enhance their

The British School of Bucharest Magazine

Let me wish you all a very pleasant summer term.

Ms Lindsey Banks, KS1 co-ordinator

On behalf of the KS1 team I’d like to thank you all once again

When thinking about my update for Key Stage 2 for this edition of the BSB Newsblast I decided to ask a group of experts their thoughts on what Key Stage 2 has been like this past term. These experts of course were 4K. When asked in Literacy to list adjectives that might describe a normal day in their school an exhaustive supply was reached.

They included busy, exciting, hard, challenging, frantic, humorous, tiring, funny, enjoyable, loud, interesting, useful, spectacular, educational etc… These words reflect many elements of daily learning in Key Stage 2. While I would hope that the lessons and activities the children take part in at BSB are certainly fun and enjoyable, they also need to be challenging and educational.

Certainly, Open Day saw a very

Here comes the sun la la la la!

Winter was colder and longer than most of us expected but it’s over now and Spring has finally sprung!

The children have been observing the changes in our outside areas, Pipera site making the most of their lovely grounds, and Gafencu Reception class taking a ‘field trip’ to Herestrau park. Field trips are

for your continued support. As busy classroom teachers we fully appreciate your assistance with homework, bake sales, school productions, our themed days, reading and with school trips.

Together we provide a friendly and happy environment for our children. Listening to pupils’ comments I feel confident that school is a happy place to be and as teachers we couldn’t ask for better than that!

As teachers we have collectively worked towards encouraging more autonomy for the children. At the beginning of the year we wanted the children to have a sense of ownership over how they spend their time at school. As a Key Stage we have been lucky to have such confident leaders in Year 6, who have provided role models for the other year groups to emulate.

During Friendship Day we saw children in Year 5 taking ownership of this event. They organised activities during playtimes on the day, and also throughout the week sold friendship letters, that proved to be very popular. Even Year 4 children have started to volunteer to be playtime helpers in the Key

Stage 1 playground. These are just some of the initiatives that teachers have started, and the children have taken on and are now responsible for.

Term Three is going to be another very busy one. All classes will go on a residential trip. These are exciting and interesting weeks that can be exhausting but are certainly fun and make valuable memories. We also have our major summer production. The children have already been practicing and learning some of the songs in preparation, and they are sounding great.

So much more before the end of the year and we are all looking forward to it.

Mr Patrick Kennedy, Key Stage 2 Coordinator

role play in class in the ‘café’. Not all trips are like this though. We planned a few right at the beginning of the year, before we had even met the children, e.g. ‘Friendship Day’, ‘Easter Celebration’ and ‘Water Day’. These special trips are opportunities for the children to visit with their partner school sites.

Water Day, planned for June, is a chance for the parents at both sites to get together as well. We hope you can make it!

Ms Angela Harvey Head of Foundation

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Student Spotlight

Ethan, 4H

Andreas, 2W

Paul, 1H

Paul, 1H, has moved here from France and is enjoying his time in 1H. Paul’s favourite subject is Physical Education because he loves sports. He likes BSB because he thinks that we learn many things and that there are many friendly teachers.

His favourite food is chicken and he likes Romania because he has made many friends.

Andreas, 2W, has moved to Romania from Cyprus.

He likes to eat pizza and play with his friends. He has been at BSB for three years and his favourite subject is Physical Education. He also likes to read and write. He likes living in Romania because he thinks there are lots of cool movies!

Sanya. Year 5B

Sanya, Year 5B

Ethan, 4H, is new to the school and comes from Australia. He likes Romania because apparently the wild dogs wake him up every morning. He likes BSB because he can go on the computer, and play soccer in the playground. He also likes BSB because of the good teachers and he thinks that the University courses are very exciting. His favourite food is chicken.

Antoine, Year 4K

Elizabeth, Year 8

Senia, Year 10

Alizee, Year 8

Elizabeth (also known as Liz), Year 8, joined the BSB family in January. She is 13 years old and likes the colour blue. Elizabeth was born in Jacksonville, Florida, but lived in Texas for a couple of years. Her favourite subject is History because she says that she likes learning about the history of the world. In her spare time she likes to play football with friends and likes to watch movies. Liz’s favorite movie is She’s The Man. She likes to listen to pop music, especially Lady Gaga. Her favorite food is spaghetti and meatballs.

Senia, Year 10 was born on the 30th of May 1994, in Bucharest Romania. She speaks English, Romanian and a bit of German. Senia is in the Mures house team. She is also involved with the Secondary School Student Council. This is Senia’s first year at BSB and so far she says that she’s enjoying it. In her free time she likes to listen to music, play the piano and guitar, loves hanging out with friends and likes painting and drawing as she is taking IGCSE art this year. Her favourite food is seafood, ice cream and Toblerone. If she could, Senia would love to go to a Linkin Park concert.

Alizee, Year 8, is 12 years old and comes from France. She has one brother in Year 6. She has been in Romania for 3 years and since then she has always been at BSB. She likes to listen to every kind of music and really enjoys watching movies; in particular, she likes comedies and movies based on true stories. She really enjoys spending time with her friends and her favourite sport is football. She likes animals like wolves and dogs and has 8 pets herself: 3 dogs, 3 cats, and 2 horses. Her favourite food is Italian and in particular she likes “Pizza” and “Spaghetti Bolognese”. She thinks that the school is nice and that the buildings are very big but she doesn’t really like wearing a school uniform.

Maria, Year 10

Maria, Year 10

Edoardo, Year 10

School Council Secondary Report

The secondary school council have not rested on their laurels since the success of the school social in December; in fact they have upped the ante with a series of fundraising and health-promoting events.

Our first project involved fresh fruit going into the council juicer (kindly donated by Ms Wells) in order to make fresh fruit juice for a minimal fee.

The resulting product was much enjoyed and very healthy indeed.

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Our second project was the production and purchasing of small gifts for Friendship Day (our alternative to the slightly better known ‘Valentine’s Day’, which occurred on a Saturday). The senior school were a very friendly bunch, as we have always known, and thanks to Jenn’ea, Natalie, Naomi and our star salesperson Louisa, 200 Ron was raised in just one day!

This half term the council are looking far ahead, past revising and IGCSE’s, to the time when the secondary school can celebrate what they have achieved with a secondary school social that aims to be bigger and better than the last. Exact details are not available at the moment, but we will keep you posted….

Mr Bill Ellis

Mr Ellis leading by example, making fresh juice at lunchtime

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On your mark, get set, GO! Let the Three-Legged race begin!

Student Council: Friendship Day The Student Council has been working hard on organising different activities this term. One of the big successes was Friendship Day. This special day was created to celebrate friendship around the school and included games like the Three-Legged Race. We also introduced the first ever Candy Grams at BSB, where students could write a special message to their friends and the Student Council would deliver it with a candy attached. Everyone enjoyed it and had fun writing to their friends.

Through this initiative we raised 360 Ron to be donated to the BSB Science garden we will work on this spring. Thanks to everybody who joined in!

The Student Council also organised a survey to see how many children wanted to make a few changes for playtime. Seventy-five children took the poll and the majority wanted to make a few changes, like breaking the playground into zones (quiet, drama, and basketball, were a few suggestions.) and having playground buddies. Overall, we have had a busy term!

All of 1H helping each other to make Friendship Bracelets at BSB’s first-ever Friendship Day!

Dilara and Maria 5B

Where are they now “

The Gleron family, who are now in Warsaw, pictured together when the first snow landed in their garden.

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Friendship Day key organisers, Dilara and Maria 5T Ayo Anibaba with his family in Ghana

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Olivier & Marie-Noelle Gleron

Hello to all my friends and teachers at BSB. I am living in Ghana and my life here is okay. Life in Africa is not at all what you might imagine it to be.

I do not live in a dry place with no water. Ghana is like any major city. Only it isn’t so clean. We have a mall were we have all the shops we need and a cinema. Shocking for you! (probably) but it is like any major city. Have a good summer.

”

Ayo Anibaba

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Friendship day was a jumping good time!

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Louisa, Alizee and Bethan experiencing life in a tent

BSB Students set sights on International Award The International Award, first launched in the UK in 1956 as The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and now offered as the International Award in 126 countries, is an exciting self-development programme, available to all young people between the ages of 14 and 25. The International Award aims to equip young people with life skills to make a difference to themselves, their communities, and the world at large, it is about individual challenge, not about reaching specific standards set by someone else, and as such students as BSB will have the opportunity to design their own programme, set their own goals, and record their own progress.

The programme is based around three Levels, each successive one requiring a greater degree of commitment. It is possible to start at any Level – some participants work their way through all three, while others start at Silver or Gold.

To gain an Award, participants must complete activities in four Sections within a specified minimum period of time.

BRONZE is for those over 14.

The minimum period of participation to gain this Award is 6 months

SILVER is for those over 15.

The minimum period of participation to gain this Award is 12 months

2. Adventurous Journey: The Adventurous Journey is about adventure and discovery. Participants develop an understanding of the environment and the importance of working together in a team with a common purpose. It can be on foot, by bicycle, boat or on horseback. Training, preparation, self sufficiency and self-reliance are the key elements.

award because it is a lot of fun and a life changing experience- it can also help to get you into a good university! I have led the International Award for twelve years: trekking up Mt. Kenya, cycling the Rift Valley, hiking the Baltic coast and rafting in Colorado. I actually started and am still involved with the Scout movement, earning my Eagle Scout Award, Ranger at Philmont, and Program Staff at Vasaro Sweden. I stopped counting at 4000 nights out.

3. Skills: The Skills Section is about developing personal interests and learning practical skills.

There are almost limitless possibilities to choose from. There is no set standard that participants must reach: they set their own goals and measure their progress against them.

4. Physical Recreation: By undertaking some form of organised and regular physical activity, participants show perseverance and improve their fitness. Their goal is to record their individual progress. Most team and individual sports are included, such as football, athletics, and archery.

5. Residential Project: This is only a requirement at Gold Level. It aims to broaden experience through living and working with others (who are not everyday companions). The project takes place over a period of five consecutive days. It requires resilience, adaptability and consideration for others.

GOLD is for those over 16.

The minimum period of participation to gain this Award is 18 months

1. Service: Participants engage with their community and discover the impact they can have through: • Community service projects/Conservation work/ Voluntary service in hospitals or community homes

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• More specialised training, such as lifesaving, first aid or rescue services.

Mihnea and Tudor raising money for charity selling sushi rolls and waffles

Natalie falling in the many legged race Natalie and Naomi raising money for charity selling books at the Friday afternoon BSB Book Sale

I am very excited about introducing the Award scheme and can assure you that the International Award is a very worthwhile award and would encourage all students to consider taking this

If you are interested, we meet every Monday after school to update our records book, enjoy a fun outdoor game, cook, learn map skills, set up tents, make a life jacket from our clothes, learn first aid, learn to pack a rucksack, along with many other fun activities.

Mr Kevin Power, ‘International Award’ Coordinator

Visit the BSB website at www.britishschool.ro

Big Green Poetry Machine Competition

As you probably know in October 2008 we (KS3) had a poetry competition called ‘Big Green Poetry Machine’. Mr Murchison asked us to write a poem about global warming and relating facts. We were allowed to use our own artistic impressions in writing our poems and after we discussed them with our teacher before he sent them on to England to see if they could be published. Most of our poems were accepted into the poetry book. We worked very hard on them and finally got what we wanted… WE ARE REAL POETS NOW! Eda & Andreea, Year 7

BSB Celebrates ECO-Day

You may have noticed that a lot of people did not wear uniform on Tuesday 17th March. This is because it was ECO-Day as well as St. Patrick’s Day. Everyone was allowed to wear any green piece of clothing for a small donation of 5 Ron or more.

At the end of the day, Secondary students had a special ECO assembly led by Mr. Murchison and Year 8. At the assembly, a surprise guest speaker was present, from the company called “Greener” or “Maimultverde”. Miruna Ralea talked to us about what her NGO does to help save the environment.

This includes projects encouraging people to clean rivers and lakes, plant trees, recycle and walk or bike rather than drive. At the end of the assembly, we did something to help the environment by planting seeds in soil in a cup to be later moved into the school garden. Watch out and don’t step on them…!

Victor, Maxence and Ethan from 2W dramatising Eco Day

ECO-Day was really fun for everybody; some people were really enthusiastic. A lot of students participated and we hope a lot more pupils and teachers have been encouraged to help our environment.

Ana and Naomi Year 7 ECO reporters

Eco-friendly Tick-Tick-Tick goes the clock counting down to eco-disaster Tick-Tick-Tick as rubbish poisons the rivers Tick-Tick-Tick as car engines drive us to uncertain future Tick-Tick-Tick goes the clock towards animal and plant extinctions Tick-Tick-Tick as polar bears become unknown Tick-Tick-Tick as the glaciers melt catastrophically Tick-Tick-Tick as we get overwhelmed by rubbish Tick-Tick-Tick as scientists manipulate plants and the climate Tick-Tick-Tick as fields become arid dust balls Tick-Tick-Tick as Rainforests, the lungs of the earth, are burnt to the ground so that we can fill ourselves with fast food and chemicals Bring-Bring-Bring as we shake hands and say goodbye to the world and life as we knew it.

After Rain Day dawns with the first star twinkling through the mist The sun is rising and bringing hope to those below The wind becomes a summer breeze The flower unfurls and all you can hear is a dripping of leaves Children wake up to see patches of blue in the sky The children grab their ball, rackets and puppies and run outside to play Mums calling out across the valley for the children to come in for breakfast The morning peace is shattered by the sound of tractors heading to the fields The farmers’ wives breathe a sigh of relief as the blessing sings through the house

Year 11 students supporting Eco Day

The Primary Eco-Committee

Poems by Shani, Year 8

Ms Tanya Biryukova from the front office supporting Eco Day

The Eco-Committee is a group of students and teachers who are committed to helping the planet Earth. The committee includes a class

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representative from each class. As members of the group we go to Mrs.Ullman’s class once a week during lunch break and discuss issues concerning the environment. So far we have launched two competitions to get the students to think about being eco-friendly. The first was in December when we needed to transform a pine tree into a Christmas tree with re-cycled objects. There were tons of great ideas like; cookies, plastic bags, fruit, cans and bottles.

5B won the competition with a beautiful tree filled with fruits. As a prize they won a plant, which they named The second was a contest to see which class could gather the most pieces of recycled clothing, which would then be donated to a local charity. Year 4k won the contest with 140 articles of clothing.

Well Done! We also had Green Day on March 17th where all the students could wear green in honour of the environment. Our next project is to have every student in the school choose an ECO Oath, by which they will promise to do something good for the environment and then add it to our Tree of Life in the front entrance. Go Green!

Antoine, 4K

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The BSB Radio Show

The BSB Radio Show is part of the creative curriculum, currently involving a group of Year 6 students, who come together every Tuesday afternoon to record a show that is later broadcast during lunch or break time for the other students to enjoy.

One of the great things about the recording process is how the students are constructing their own show – they choose the news, the thought of the day, and the tunes. The show therefore consists entirely of the students’ own ideas. A teacher supervises and organizes the time so that the show can be recorded during two periods, but in all other regards it is an entirely student run show.

This show is something new for the students and the production team is going through a big learning process; the students are getting used to techniques for speaking into a microphone, and for now the editing process is being largely coordinated by a teacher. We are also improving our script writing skills and look forward to writing much more complex and interesting scripts.

Tatum and Megan working on the radio show script

For the future, we are looking forward to a time when the students put the entire show together from start to finish, deciding what to include and how to put it all together - as well as doing all the editing.

Basil, Johann, Tatum, Megan and Rhys (Years 6 U & 6D) during a recording break during Eco Day

The show offers a range of programs including international news, BSB latest news, thought of the day, the top three tunes of the week, and an interview focusing on one of the chosen topics for the session.

It has been a lot of fun working on this weekly radio show so far; listening to the ‘bad’ recordings, complete with mispronunciations and other mistakes and slipups, it has been very entertaining with many episodes of uncontrolled laughter.

If you are interested in getting involved in the BSB Radio Show, please let your class teacher know or contact me directly.

Ms Doina Antohi Drama Teacher

Basil, Johann, Tatum, Megan and Rhys (Years 6 U & D) during a recording break

A word from the Music Room: Introducing “The Brass Family”

Ever since man first learned to work with metals he has been making musical instrument with them.

Among these early instruments were the ancestors of the modern orchestral and brass band family.

The earliest ancestors of the modern brass instruments were made of many materials. Ancient horns and shells were used as simple instruments.

In ancient Israel the Shofar or ram’s horn called the people to worship and was said to have knocked down the walls of Jericho with its sound. It was not long before people started to make imitation horns out of metal.

Mr Mulvaney leading the middle school choir

Year 10 students, Edoardo, Alex, and Denis working through a percussion piece

Horns and trumpets are among the oldest instruments. In 1922, when the tomb of the Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamen was discovered, two trumpets were found which had been buried for over 3,000 years. They still worked.

The ancient Romans marched into battle 2,000 years ago to the sound of Buccina and Gernu-both early horns-and the Salpinx – an early trumpet.

The trumpet developed from the Roman Salpinx and the medieval Clarion and Busine. These instruments were all used by soldiers and, until the seventeenth century it was in the army that the trumpet was most often found.

Denis and Edoardo experimenting with the trumpet

Until the nearly nineteenth century the trumpet was a natural instrument and could only play a limited number of notes, but by 1850, the valve trumpet had largely taken over. From that time on the trumpet has rapidly gained in popularity.

The next term we will have clubs for brass instruments so come and see Mr Mulvany and have a go.

Mr Pantella live in concert

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Mr Des Mulvany Head of Music

Bethan performing a solo in the Music assembly

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IGCSE Art & Design

IGCSE Art is the culmination of all the work completed in Years 7 through 9 art classes, which aim to nurture your creativity and artistic abilities.

In Year 7 we start with simple tasks such as drawing a tree or a flower and slowly extend our focus to more difficult forms of art as we move toward IGCSE art.

Why choose IGCSE Art & Deign?

I have always drawn and I really enjoy art so I naturally choose this course. What I didn’t realize at first was how much concentration is needed, how serious a subject it is, and just how much effort and work would be required to be able to produce something which we can refer to as ‘art’.

From the research stage to the experimental stage, where we refine our use of the various techniques and processes used when working with different materials- it takes so much time, but in the end you feel highly satisfied seeing the end product and knowing you made it yourself.

So what do you have to do in IGCSE Art & Design?

Andreea’s sketchbook Artist research

Well formally speaking, you have two parts to complete the qualification: 60% of the marks are gained from your course work and 40% from an externally set assignment.

The course work contains two units of work based on different themes. At the moment, we are completing our first unit on Natural forms. We had to draw various examples of natural forms using different materials and experimenting with different techniques.

We also had to research different artists relating to what we were doing and work in our sketchbooks developing ideas. We produced a relief panel as our final piece and have also completed a colour study so far. Now we are finishing off our print work and will be moving on to our next unit soon. I’m sure it will be just as challenging. The Years 11 & 12 students are now working on their externally set assignment ‘I, Me, Mine’ which is good as we can see how much hard work is needed for this exam, plus we see how things will be for us in this course next year.

Andreea’s Tree final piece

Andreea’s sketchbook Landscape

Andreea’s sketchbook Drawing exercise

Andreea’s sketchbook Museum trip

Andreea, Year 10 IGCSE Art student

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Ilayda, Sarah, Caroline and Sara are “On the Way Home” by Jill Murphy.

1J all dressed up for Book Day

Book Week / World Book Day

We had another exciting Book Week at BSB the week from the 2nd – 6th of March. Throughout the week the children had the chance to do many wonderful activities involving books, whether it was reading together in Literature circles or learning about Egypt. We welcomed and appreciated parent volunteers who came in and read with the classes.

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The children had a chance to visit other classes to listen to each other read, which they enjoyed immensely. The children published class books of their work which will be stored in the library so other children can enjoy their work.

On World Book Day everyone had a chance to dress up as their favourite book character. We were visited by Gruffalos, Anne Frank, Dora the Explorer and Robin Hood to name a few. With a lot of great costumes, it was a tough choice to decide who had the best.

Costume Winners 1H 1J 2B 2W 3L 3P

Aziz Al Zughaibi Tudor Vasilescu Alexander Prelea Aoife O’Neill Rodney Hearn Ilias Resvanis

4K 4H 5T 5B 6U 6D

Ana Maria Gogoasa Ethan Spears Fivos Gaitantzis Aaron Russell Harry Calthrop Rhys Rowlands

Mr Harrison as Hansel

The Iron Man cometh - Mr Kennedy as his favourite character as Pirate Leese looks on

Mr Williams as Stickman!!!!

Isabella and Alexander from 2B with Bollinger the cat

Who is that bear?

I believe it is Anthime from 6U

Parent volunteer Mrs Spackman reading to Year 5T

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The diligent judging panel

The Annual BSB Secondary School Public Speaking Competition

On the 24th of February, in the Secondary School, a nerve-testing, fact-filling, adrenalin-rushing, nail-biting speech competition took place. The competitors had already advanced through two rounds of competition which earned them a place in the coveted FINALS. The competition was close and each “future Martin Luther King” performed excellently. Even though they were in front of the entire Secondary School and numerous teachers, none of them showed the slightest smidgen of wobbly knees! And in front of the five successful finalists, pen and paper at the ready, sat a tough panel of judges, consisting of Mr Murchison and

Louisa, Year 9, 2nd Place

Bethan, Year 9, First Place

Mrs Puddy-Wells and selection of their peers who performed well in the preliminary rounds, but did not make the finals. Together they would decide the fate of the final five.

The speakers each had approximately 3 minutes to deliver their speech on a topic relating to books- as the final took place on World Book Day. Some areas the speakers were judged on included: impact on the audience, appealing to the audience/ viewers, and content of speech. The criteria was extremely detailed, but the public speaking finalists were more than up to the task. After each delivery, a number of the judges interacted with the participants and gave positive feedback and a few tips that the speaker might want to work on. It proved tricky to comment on improvements as the speakers were very well prepared and so in general only minor snippets of advice were offered.

It was an excellent competition and it was very difficult to decide which speech triumphed, as they were all so FANTASTIC! But in the end, we had to say a huge CONGRATULATIONS to Bethan, Year 9, who made a compelling argument in favour of reading a book, as opposed to seeing the disappointing

version of the story told on the big creen! Betham picked up a 200 Ron gift voucher from Anthony Frost Books- thank you Anthony Frost Books- and will have her name inscribed on the BSB Public Speaking Plaque for future posterity. I would also like to say a massive WELL-DONE to Naomi, Year 7; Polen, Year 7; Louisa, Year 9 and May Year 9! And to everyone who failed to make the finals this year, well, there’s always next year.

Jennéa (one of the celebrity judges), Year 7

Extra, Extra, Read All About It! Recently in Year 6 a newspaper all the way from England arrived and we were told it was a newspaper for children, First News! This newspaper is simply great! All the subjects are interesting and fun to read and the all words are easy to understand - unlike normal newspapers.

May, Year 9, 5th place

Egor, Idan, Hristos and Rhys enjoying ’First News’

The kinds of stories told in there are cool, like a shoe blown off its owner by a speeding train or the world’s smallest man fitting in the shoe of the tallest man. Both Year 6 classes have been using the newspapers in their Literacy and PSCHE lessons. Overall this newspaper is good to read!

Naomi, Year 9, 4th place

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Polen, Year 7, 3rd Place

Hristos, Year 6D

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Key Stage 4 & 5 Bake Sale Report On Friday February 27th, it was the Key Stage 4 and 5 (including Years 10, 11, 12) annual bake sale!

On that day we served all parents and students alike, cookies for 2ron, cakes for 5ron, and a cup of soda for 2ron! By the time we knew it we had sold almost everything! When I asked Edoardo what his thoughts about the bake sales were, he joyfully answered, “I was amazed, that everything sold, ummm and it was also a lot of fun.” I also asked him, “Where do you personally feel the money we raised should go to?”

Alexandra advising the younger students on the best cakes on offer

Key Stage 4 & 5 Bake Sale busy with patrons

Edoardo carefully selecting a slice of cake

Albert doing his bit to help

He enthusiastically suggested that “all the money should go to charity or for more school equipment.

Over all, I think that everybody that contributed to the day should be proud of themselves for being able to raise approximately 450 Ron! And I’m also very sure that everybody from Key Stages 4 and 5, including our teachers, will be eagerly waiting for out next bake sale!

Denis, Year 10

Life in Year 10 What does Year 10 mean? For some students it means more responsibility, whilst other students might see it as a year with more freedom to do different things, and there are others for whom it is just another school year. For me, Year 10 has more than one meaning. First of all, Year 10 means more hard work. We are now 7 months into our IGCSE course work and it is definitely harder than Year 9. Last year you could take school a little easier and afford to spend more time on your hobbies, ignoring school a bit as it wasn’t so time consuming. This year, however, we really have to focus so that we can be prepared for the exams in two years time. On the other hand, though, we have fewer subjects, which means we have more time to focus on the work we have.

Last year we were given a chance to choose two extra subjects on top of the compulsory ones, giving us a total of 8 subjects. The majority of the class chose Music, Art or Business Studies.

Other than that we have English, ICT, Math, Science and P.E. For most of our subjects we will be examined at the end of Year 11, however, for P.E. and English, we will have an externally assessed examination in May. What we have to do in PE is show our performance in fitness and choose either basketball or football on top of that. Other than that we will also have to analyze the performance of our peers. The curriculum in Year 10 is not however so very different to Year 9 as we still learn the same things in subjects but at a different level. Another aspect of being part of year 10 is that now we have to be more responsible. For example, in English, everyone in class is responsible for writing at least one article for the school magazine, which is something we didn’t do last year.

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Y10 Class Sketch completed in an hour by Andreea, Year 10

Even though educationally Year 10 is somewhat different, there are not any major differences socially. We all still get long the same way we did in Year 9, and we have kindly welcomed several new students who have joined us recently. Being a team we all have to help each other out, even if that sometimes means staying in during break.

For next year my most important goal is to manage to pass my IGCSE exams. I really do hope that everyone gives their best next year, resulting in us all passing our exams. Until now, Year 10 has been one of the most difficult years academically speaking, but also one of the most enjoyable years as well.

Alexandra, Year 10

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Foundation Stage Curriculum I am often asked what we actually do in the Foundation Stage, for those of you have ever come to watch and you should, you will know the children are always busy, some times inside but often outside. We are frequently messy and always begging for egg boxes, old handbags or some other odd item. Yes we are having fun, I am the first to admit that, but we have a very solid framework that underpins the opportunities and the activities we provide for the children in our care.

Our Curriculum for BSB Foundation Stage is based on the guide lines of the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage). The EYFS came into use in September 2008, put in place by the English government to cover children’s education from birth to the end of their time in reception class.

The EYFS has four main themes and six areas of learning and provides us with a framework that guides us enanles us to look at the whole child.

A Unique Child: This theme is about how the children develop: they are all different, but should be treated equally. Positive relationships and good communication are vital. The children need to learn about risks and safety, how to make good choices, and how to stick to boundaries. They do best when their all their physical and emotional needs are met.

Positive Relationships: This theme is about the children learning to manage their feelings and build friendships.

We will respect all kinds of families and aim to develop a positive twoway relationship with parents. We will support, listen to and work with the children to help them learn.

Enabling Environments: This theme is about practitioners planning for and checking on each child’s progress.

We will ensure that inside and outside spaces at the setting are safe, interesting and engaging. We will support children when they move on, working as a team to help your child succeed.

Learning and Development: This theme is about how the children learn – through play and exploration, with adult support for each individual. We will encourage the children to develop imagination, to get actively involved in learning and to make decisions. We will develop the children’s creative and critical thinking, balancing the need for both the children and adults to lead the learning.

Early learning goals: By the time they reach the end of the EYFS, most children should have reached or gone beyond these goals. The goals are split into different areas: Personal, Social and Emotional Development Building confidence, concentration, independence and respect.

Communication, Language and Literacy Developing speaking and listening skills, and beginning to read and write.

Problem Solving, Reasoning and Numeracy Number work, mathematical ideas and thinking.

Knowledge and Understanding of the World Children investigating and thinking about their place in the world.

Physical Development Developing physical skills and understanding.

Creative Development Building the children’s imagination.

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To support your EYFS child at home: • Spend plenty of time talking with your child.

• Read lots of books together.

• Encourage your child to take part in activities, such as digging in the garden, visiting interesting places and taking part in sports.

• Play a variety of games together – spending quality time with your child is the very best way to help them learn and develop.

• Tell us if your child does something new or interesting.

• Let us know if you have any problems or worries about your child, or if you need our help.

Keeping records: Your child’s development shall be recorded in their “Assessment folder”. Evidence will be in the form of observations and photographs of your child alongside some of the work that your child has produced during their time with us.

Mrs Helen Calthrop, Pipera Foundation Coordinator

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Primary Curriculum Update

As a British school operating overseas it is important for us to keep up-to-date with the changes in the curriculum that are happening in the UK. Whilst having an understanding of current teaching and learning practises is advantageous, we must also balance this with the needs of all our pupils. A number of the changes in the National

Curriculum that are either being proposed or are being implemented are already currently established practise in our school: most noticeably individualised learning, for example, through our university program and also the one-to-one music lessons for our pupils, as well as a focus on increasing creativity within the classroom. Also recently in the UK it was announced that by 2010 learning a foreign language will be compulsory for primary school pupils aged 7 and above. This, as you already know, has been common practice at BSB for many years. Another change which we are implementing within the primary school which

is mirroring that of the UK is the importance of personal, social and emotional opportunities being offered to our pupils. The upcoming inspection of teaching and learning at BSB will be a very useful exercise indeed, as it will help highlight areas of strength in our curriculum, whilst also giving us guidance on areas that we can improve upon.

Our ultimate goal continues to provide our pupils with the necessary skills and knowledge that not only allows them to be life long learners, but also successful members of their community, wherever that maybe in the future.

Mr Hamacher and his BSB Newsblast team

Suparnan and Sacha updating their blogs

Mr Iain Davidson, Primary Curriculum Coordinator

Working through the Primary ICT Curriculum

ICT is changing the lives of everyone. At BSB, through teaching ICT, we equip children to participate in a rapidly changing world where work and leisure activities are increasingly transformed by technology.

We enable them to find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information. We also focus on developing the skills necessary for children to be able to use information in a discriminating and effective way. We believe that ICT skills are now a major factor in enabling children to become confident, creative and independent learners.

The aims of ICT are to equip children with the skills necessary to use technology to become independent learners. The teaching style that we adopt is as active and practical as possible.

Mathematics in the Primary School Curriculum

At times we give children direct instruction on how to use hardware or software in ‘skills’ lessons, whilst at other times we allow the students time to explore the computer in their own way. We also often use ICT capabilities to support teaching across the other areas of the Primary curriculum.

Children in Key Stage 1 have one lesson per week in the main ICT suite, with the remaining lessons being taught in the Ringwood IT suite. Key Stage 2 children have at least three sessions a week booked in the main ICT suite.

several revisions over the decades. From next year we will be introducing the New Maths Framework into the Primary classes of BSB. The new framework is aimed at the planning and teaching side of the equation and will result in a more streamlined approach to the content of the Primary curriculum for maths.

Mathematics has traditionally been one of the core subjects taught throughout the Primary School and the way that it has been taught has undergone

There will be seven strands: • Using and applying mathematics • Counting and understanding numbers • Knowing and using number facts • Calculating

From the Primary Literacy Coordinator

as ICT, which has become an integral part of Literacy in the classroom, as in today’s world; at BSB we feel children need to be equipped with these crucial skills.

BSB has been introducing the New Primary Framework for Literacy, which was introduced in Britain recently. It is a welcome change as it gives children more time and support to master the necessary skills in Literacy, whilst at the same time providing more individualised learning. The new Framework also encourages and provides opportunities for more cross-curricular links with other subjects in order for children to transfer Literacy skills to other areas of the curriculum, such

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The children receive Literacy lessons daily; in addition, time is given to extended writing opportunities and guided reading. Literacy lessons range across fiction genres, non-fiction and poetry in Reading and Writing. Children are taught to read, comprehend and analyse texts for good techniques, which they then transfer to their own writing. Throughout this entire process expectations and targets are continually set, assessed, and then reset in order ensure children progress at a steady rate. Additional help is also provided to support children who are finding the work more challenging, with the provision of EAL lessons for students who are learning English as a new language or ALC (Accelerated Learning Classes) for students who

Furthermore, they are able to use the mobile ICT centre (class laptops) when required. The Foundation Stage also has lots of access to ICT. As we are increasingly encouraging children to engage in online activities, it is essential that we do all that we can to ensure their safety while doing so.

Children are made aware of the hazards and risks to themselves and others when using ICT, especially the internet, and are informed of the steps they can take to control risks.

Mr Sonny Leese, Primary ICT Coordinator

• Understanding shape • Measuring • Handling data This way of organising the content allows for more revision and brings problem solving into each area, so that the concepts the children learn, for example in measuring, can be immediately applied through word problems and other practical activities. Short trials of the new planning have already begun at BSB to familiarise teachers with the framework.

Ms Chris Barclay Mathematics Coordinator, Primary

able to converse and work in English, but who may have a particular weakness in reading or writing.

This year we have also brought in new Spelling Books and Home Reading books. The new Spelling Books provide a cohesive well structured vocabulary program that builds from stage to stage, allowing for different rates of progression and differentiation, in order to enable students to become confident spellers as quickly as possible.

The children have specific vocabulary lists to work on from the course books and are tested each week to monitor their progress and identify areas to work. The Home Reading, the second new initiative, provides a good link between parents and teachers, as well as encouraging nightly reading by awarding certificates for the number of nights read.

Ms Justine Tyler, Literacy Coordinator

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Mysteries of Mars and Earth

The university course Mysteries of Mars and Earth was held by the primary science coordinator of BSB, Jennifer Ullman. The university course lasted for 6 weeks and all of the students had great fun. For the last university session we launched rockets that we made.

History in the Primary School

In the Primary School, the study of History helps children to understand the past, how the knowledge, skills and achievements of people who lived long ago have been built upon to give us the life that we enjoy today. It also seeks to give children a sense of chronology, knowing where the different societies sat in time and space and how these have impacted upon us.

So what do we study? We investigate the ‘big’ civilizations such as the Celts and the Saxons, Ancient Egypt, the Greeks, the Romans, Tudor England and the Victorians, giving children a snapshot of life in those times. Memorable events such as The Great Fire of London and World War Two are studied as well as famous people such as Florence Nightingale and John Lennon.

How do we teach history? Through reading and research, viewing artefacts and primary sources, such as photographs and newspapers, project work, watching video clips and using websites, the children are able to investigate and observe, then present their learning in tables, written text and pictures.

By linking with the past, we can better understand how the present developed and what the future may yet hold.

Year 5B and ‘The Victorians’

Ms Chris Barclay History Coordinator, Primary Mars and Earth University

During the university course we also looked at the differences between Earth and Mars, what we need to have in order to survive on Mars, and the correct timing scientists should set for rockets to launch so they will land at the right place in space. We used a computer program to practice the timing of launching a rocket. The website is on 6u’s blog (www.6uedublogs.org). Many students are wishing to do something else about Mars and Earth.

Mariam, 6U

Puppet and Puppetry

Survival Skills University

In Survival Adventure University we learn all about surviving in the great outdoors. We learn about the potential problems you can face in the great outdoors and what you can do to avoid potential problems and to get yourself out of trouble when faced with a problem. As a part of the course we learn all about using outdoor equipment. In the photo you can Team shark celebrating successfully putting up their tent. Now we’re ready to enjoy an adventure in the Romanian mountains.

Alexandro, Bianca, Hithu, Philip and Csabi launching rockets with Miss Ullman

In puppets and puppetry we have done a performance. I enjoyed it a lot.

Anda, Gui, Samma, Michal, Raluca, Arina, Jacob, Gabi and their performing puppets

I held up the fire and the question mark in our song ‘Mama Mia’. I enjoyed it a lot.

Gui, 3L

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Survival Skills Students learning about outdoor equipment

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Primary School Poetry Contest Congratulations to the winners of the Primary Poetry Contest!

1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place

Sarah Nolan Tatum Rouf Daniel Schiffer

Below is the winning entry.

Sarah, Year 5T

“Humphry’s Day Off ” Humphry stared into his dish, And said “If I could have one wish, I’d wish for lots and lots of food, For I am in an eating mood!”

For there were lots of tasty things to bite.

Carrots and lettuce and parsnips too, Radishes all lined up in a queue.

And ran, ran, ran, ran into the night.

Safely at home he gave a loud sigh, With the stuff he’d brought back he could make a pie!

He grabbed his scarf and baseball cap And studied his food finding map “Into Mr. Brown’s vegetable field, Is the place to eat a meal.

Strawberries, blackberries, gooseberries, more!

Things he’d never seen before!

Humphry stared with wonderous awe, At all the apples on the floor.

Dreamily watching fireflies playing tig, He thought life isn’t bad for a guinea pig.

He hung up his scarf and baseball cap, And settled down to have a nap.

Next doors garden is heaven for me!

That’s the place I need to be,” He declared as he shot out the door, While skipping lightly across the floor.

Into the garden and – oh! What a sight!

He ate and ate till nightime fell, And stared into the wishing well.

He thought, I’m looking handsomely fat, Then out the door came Mr. Brown’s cat!

He gave a squeal of horrified fright,

Sarah Year 5T

World Maths Day Wednesday, March 4th was World Maths Day – the final chance for those budding mental mathematic geniuses to show their stuff! After almost a full month of challenging kids from all over the world, we all settled down to cram as many times tables and number bonds as we could into those last few hours.

Even the children who didn’t really like mathematics a lot got into the spirit of it all and, at the same time, improved their skills – without even realising it!

Special congratulations have to be offered to Mr Leese’s Year 3 class and most particularly to Hithu, who clocked up an amazing 85,184 answers! When the final results were tallied Year 3L at BSB were 50th in the world and Hithu was 15th. A truly fantastic feat! Hithu will receive a special medal from the World Math Day organizers soon. Miruna Nuredin in 2B also answered a very impressive 3424 correct answers, the highest total from Key Stage 1.

Other top performers throughout the school were Rebecca Cook 6698, Tasos Gkolias 2715 and Ana Ilinca 2473 all from that Maths Mad class 4K. Even the teachers got a chance to have a go. The top performer among the BSB staff was Ms Pillay with a very impressive 2514!

World Maths Day 2

This event is only in its third year and looks like it will be a permanent addition to the Primary school calendar. 216 students from BSB joined over 1 million students world wide, from over 160 countries. Collectively, there were over 452 million

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World Maths Day screen with BSB success!

questions answered during the 48 hour event and at BSB we answered 194,151. Well done, everyone!

World Math Day 1

And the best thing is that it is on again next year!

So get those numbers facts learned!

Ms Chris Barclay Mathematics Coordinator, Primary

3-D Shapes Display

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Trip to the French Institute On Friday 13th February Year 10, 11 and 12 students headed off to the French Institute, based in Piata Romana, in the centre of Bucharest, to see what was on offer there for French students. The journey started with a warm heartfelt rendition of ‘bon anniversaire’ to Mr Murchison, on his 21st birthday, before boarding the school bus, berets in hand and bags full to overflowing with baguettes, camembert, and fine bottles of Burgundy Pinot noir- I think somewhere in the bus there may have been a book on great French painters, along with a copy of Les Misérables, Madame Bovary, and Satre’s trilogy The Roads to Freedom!

We arrived at the Institute and entered what appeared to us to be an architecturally, elegant, grey building, flying the French flag. Once inside, we were met by the librarian who showed us all the French resources and mostly spoke in French, which was a good listening experience for our students. I think that the girls especially liked the French fashion magazines. I had to even pull Maria (Year 10) away with a concrete baguette from Paris Match, while Denis and Edoardo from Year 10 were engrossed in some French cartoons.

The resource centre was well-stocked and the students can borrow materials in future to help their learning. After the resource centre, we visited the media lounge, where we watched a film in French, recommended by Alex (Year 12), showing lots of French car chases.

I feel the students enjoyed being in a piece of France for the morning and I was very impressed by their behaviour and intelligent French questions.

Merci a tous.

Years 10,11,12 visit the French Institute

Edoardo, Mahmoud, and Denis enjoying their visit

Isabella exploring the library Mr Nic Perrett Head of French

Natalie attempts to go on the outside

Reds demonstrating width and depth in attack

If at first you don’t succeed, “ Try Try Again! ” The first thing that comes to mind at the mention of “rugby” is tackles and tries. Most people would think that rugby is not particularly safe for school children. However, there is a game of rugby that can be played with no one being flung through the air. Yep, you guessed it! Touch Rugby is sweeping the BSB fields! With the help of Mr O’Brien, BSB is learning agility, speed, coordination, and many more useful skills in one fun-filled, high-energy sport! Mr O’Brien has started right from the beginning. In year 7, we have covered backward

passing, getting familiar with the ball, we have played a few games that have in some cases been adapted to emphasise one particular skill.

An example of one of these adapted games is when a mini game is played with 5 attackers and 3 defenders. This may seem unfair on the defenders but it actually allows the attackers to develop their skills. With this particular practice, I was surprised to discover that, even with such a small number of defenders, it was quite tricky to score any triesgreat job defenders!

Throughout these past few weeks, Mr. O’Brien has introduced us to many exciting rugby drills that have provided us with an extremely fun way of practicing new skills or perfecting the taught skills. I think it is safe to say that, even though rugby is a new sport to many of BSB’s students, we have made a bit of progress (I hope Mr O’Brien agrees).

I hope that we will continue to develop our skills in terms of touch rugby!

Thank you Mr O’Brien!

Jennéa, Year 7

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Secondary ICT Adobe hits the British School of Bucharest Recently BSB purchased some new software for the ICT department. All students are now using the Adobe suite of industry standard software which includes Dreamweaver for Web Design, Fireworks for digital imaging and Flash for animations. Last term students used Fireworks to create ‘Ransom Art’; where they used letters from different types of packaging to create a name poster. If you would like to see examples of the students’ work, you are welcme to visit the secondary school computer room to view the various board displays.

New Examination for Year 9!

The Year 9’s have started working on a new examination called DiDA or the Diploma in Digital Applications. This will involve creating posters, invitations, a spreadsheet and a database as well as a web site. They are likely to finish in early June, so best of luck to them!

Year 10 students working in class on the school laptops

Mr Bohdan Pantella Head of ICT

Artefacts and English It all started when Mr. Murchison set us an assignment related to a book we read during the term called Skellig. We had to find an artefact in the

book and create it. We generally agreed that finding the artefact was harder then making it. Most of us had really fascinating artefacts such as: daggers, pomegranates, Mina’s sketch book of birds, Whisper the cat, an archaeopteryx, a blackbird, a dinosaur skeleton, cobwebs, a tiger, a coke can and even imagination. We didn’t tell anyone what our artefact was until the day of our presentation. It was the class’ task to guess what the concealed artefact

was by asking questions. Some of the class had really obscure artefacts while others were common but surprisingly difficult to guess. As a class we had a lot of fun presenting our work and we enjoyed reading Skellig. It was great fun guessing others’ artefacts and it was really amazing when we couldn’t guess it and the mysterious artefact had to be revealed!

Polen, Sabina & Usman, Year 7

Mr Murchison on the Artefact Assignment The aforementioned activity was great fun. The students really loved guessing each others’ artefacts. For me it is an interesting activity as it encompasses both performance and assessment.

While the students are in front of the class handling their peers’ questions, I am at the back of the room assessing the student for speaking and listening levels. In this way it ties in directly with the National Curriculum as they are assigned a speaking and listening level and target at the culmination of the activity.

Each artefact chosen must also correspond with a theme in the novel. For Year 7 it is the first year where we examine multiple themes in one novel, and it is rather important that each artefact be linked with one of the major themes in the novel.

For example, ‘Death’ and ‘Education’ are two themes in Skellig. One particular artefact was of a dinosaur skeleton and it reflected both themes as it is depicted a skeleton which obviously died, and Education because the primary characters in the novel were learning about dinosaurs in school.

Another reason I really like this activity is because it allows students who may not normally succeed in English to have a greater opportunity to achieve.

I was truly amazed by the beautiful artefacts that

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Year 8 working together on their whiteboard display in English class

were handcrafted by the year 7 students. Some were breathtaking. I was pleased to see that students were so crafty and creative and even more thrilled to know that some students who might have struggled with a written response grasped the idea of themes.

Skellig is a classic piece of Modern Literature studied by the Year 7 group. Each year in KS3 English a piece of Literature is studied. For example, in Year 8 Animal Farm by George Orwell is studied and in Year 9 John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men is examined in depth.

Mr Steven Murchison, Year 7 Teacher and Head of English

Year 7 artefacts from the ‘Skellig’ novel

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What’s on the menu for Science next year?

I am pleased that school is offering the single sciences, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. These are interesting, experiment driven classes that are thought provoking and academically challenging, perfect preparation for further studies in A level, IB or AP courses. I especially look forward to dissections, exothermic reactions, and the particlewave duality of light experiments.

Edoardo, Year 10, in the process of dissecting an eye

Element Cycles, Structure & Bonding, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Synthesis, Genetics, Disease, Ecology, Evolution, Environment and Pollution

Future Med students getting some early practice in with the scalpel

IGCSE Biology will consist of a good balance of theory and practical. You will have these wonderful and interesting topics to study; Cells & Growth, Characteristics of Life, Plants and Animals, Fitness & Health, Humans as organisms, Energy Flow &

In IGCSE Chemistry, we will do a myriad of experiments and you will complete the following science units; The Particulate Nature of Matter, Experimental Techniques, Atoms, Elements and Compounds, Stoichiometry , Electricity and Chemistry, Chemical Changes, Acids, Bases and Salts, The Periodic Table, Metals, Air and Water, Sulphur, Carbonates and Organic Chemistry

Speed and Velocity, Mass, Weight, Density, Volume Atoms, Elements and Compounds, Work Power, Pressure, Thermal Physics, Melting and Boiling Energy transfer, Light and Sound, Electricity and Circuits, Radiation and Magnetism. It is a fun and challenging course of study!

If you have any questions or are interested in a particular science topic please come down to the lab for chat to further your acquisition of knowledge in the fascinating world of science.

Mr Kevin Power, Head of Science

IGCSE Physics, over the 2 years you will study;

The Mathematics Curriculum, Years 7-12 Mathematics as a subject is a requirement for all Key Stage 3, 4, and 5 students.

Key Stage 3 students (Years 7-9) will work to refine their skills in the topics of Number, Algebra, Shape, and Handling Data according to the National Strategy document as laid out by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (http://curriculum.qca. org.uk).

Mrs Houette teaching cross curricular Mathematics

Senia, Year 10, working through a Year 10 IGCSE math problem

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Students in Years 7-9 will be assessed with levels. For example pupils leaving Year 7 should be working at level 4, students leaving Year 9 should be working at level 6. Key Stage 4 students (Years 10 and 11) will work towards the Edexcel qualification IGCSE ( International General Certificate of Secondary Education). IGCSEs, like GCSEs, prepare students for further study, including progression to GCE AS or A levels, BTEC or employment. All students will complete the Edexcel IGCSE syllabus 4400 (without coursework).

Students will complete two written papers either in the Foundation Tier or in the Higher Tier. The Foundation Tier will enable students to gain grades C to G while Grades A* to C can be achieved in the Higher Tier.

Students at BSB work with textbooks and revision materials that suit their ability. ICT is an integral part of Maths and lessons are supported by engaging Maths software and online homework.

Mrs Beate Houette, Mathematics teacher

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Primary School Open Day

As many of you already know, on Thursday the 12th of March we had our annual Open Day, during which time parents, friends and invited guests were able to walk around the school seeing firsthand some of the various learning opportunities our pupils undertake on a daily basis.

This year approximately 80 visitors had the opportunity to experience a wide variety of exciting activities, including an archaeological dig, a new country being formed and

Year 4 Open Day

Open Day was a great day where all of the children in both 4H and 4K got to work together and do a variety of games and lots of very fun activities.

The games included a game about Ancient Egypt on the laptops, a digging game outside, making and creating Venn diagrams and other fun activities. We also know now that in the back of Ringwood here at BSB at the digging site, the workers were digging there and found a very

geographically mapped out, scientific experiments involving floating and sinking, designing and packaging to protect a falling egg, parachute games, and designing and making pirate treasure chests. For those of you who unfortunately were unable to attend, these photographs will hopefully help to give an idea of some of the activities.

Mr Iain Davidson, Open Day Coordinator

2W enjoying Question and Answer time

special object and took it in a big van somewhere. We all excitedly wanted to know what was taken away. When we did our digging game every single group found some pieces of a broken pot. My favourite games during Open Day were the Ancient Egyptian game, the Digging Game where we all got to find at least 2 pieces of the broken pot and the making your own Venn diagrams. Open Day was not only us playing games it was also to show our parents what we do during normal days at school. Open Day was also very fun because it was my birthday.

Open Day was my favourite BSB event so far throughout the year.

Ana, 4K

Oskar, Matthieu, Luca and Charlie work on their treasure chest designs

A parent enjoying the students work

Alec and Salman concentrate on their pirate design

Naif, Patrick, Ethan and Gabi, 4K

A parent watching Reception B students working with the building blocks

Kayla, Calista, Alessandro and Seo Young, 4K

Oskar, Matthieu, Luca and Charlie work on their treasure chest designs

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The Design and Make group making chocolate brownies

BSB Open Day, 2009

Student Report

In the UK, education is moving towards theme based curriculums whereby subjects come together to fuse teacher knowledge and expertise together to form a well rounded, true to life learning experience. The Secondary School celebrated Open Day by nominating Chocolate as the theme for all subjects to conjure up an extravaganza of learning experiences! The day was broken up into four groups and students had the chance to choose the group they wanted to work in for the day: create and communicate, explore and perform, design and make and investigate and present. With the groups organize, the day started with the pupils gathered together in the dining hall for a quick briefing. Students were then given a choice of which chocolate they preferred, symbolizing the fact that we all have choices in life and also celebrating the Shakespearean ideal that ‘variety is the spice of life.’ From this point students broke off into their respective groups to enjoy the day.

From my own personal perspective it was so great to see our pupils enjoying themselves, respecting one another and working hard together towards a common goal. I was particularly proud at the end of the assembly and even more ecstatic when pupils the following day were asking when the next themed day will be!

Ms Jen Kemp, Assistant Head of Secondary

Here’s what some of the Year 9 students had to say about this Year’s Open Day Mihnea Year 9: “I thought it was great, I like the theme and was interested to see how science and mathematics could be linked with chocolate. We had to calculate ratios, experimental probability and statistical probability. After that we

The Explore and Perform group performing thier song

On the 12th of March the school organised a day where parents and friends could come to school to experience a day at BSB. A few days before the actual Open Day each student was given a form to complete, so they could choose which group they would work in. There were four choices of groups: Design and Make, Create and Communicate, Research, Investigate and Present, and Explore, Express and Perform. I was in the Research, Investigate and Present.

The day started with 2 hours of Maths, but not just any Maths. We had a Maths lesson using M&Ms! We were required to approximate how many M&Ms were in a bag before opening it and how many colors of each. After that we had to make ratios to find out how many grams an M&M had, considering the number of grams in one bag of M&Ms. Also, we estimated how many grams an elephants M&M would have and the result was 217 grams, about the size of a tennis ball.

After Maths, the day continued with two hours of Science to learn how chocolate affects our body?

We measured our resting pulse rate and then ran track and measured it again every 5 minutes for 15 minutes. Afterwards, we ate chocolate and did exactly the same thing; although everyone ate a different chocolate to see which type of chocolate affects the body more: less than 5% cocoa, 10% cocoa, 30% cocoa, 70% cocoa and 85% cocoa. The results were surprising: the less cocoa chocolate has the more it makes our pulse rate go up, which isn’t very good especially if you have heart problems. After a short lunch break, we had a very good history lesson where we learned about

calculated the size of an elephants M&M compared to its weight! My favourite part of the day was when we all gathered in the foyer of school to see what the other groups had been doing!”

Tudor, Year 9: “I really liked the theme and the fact that the day felt special and we were all working together. I like designing, making and constructing, and even though I wasn’t in that particular group I still got to design and make paper airplanes and parachutes to symbolize the Berlin airdrop. I launched them into the assembly

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the history of chocolate and each student drew a little poster to represent a certain period along the timeline of chocolate history.

In the final hour, the groups met and each gave a short presentation. The Create and Communicate groups told the tale of an American who threw chocolate from his airplane during World War II and then presented a chocolate TV ad they had filmed.

The Explore, Express and Perform group played a chocolate song they composed and also presented 2 chocolate ads live. The Investigate and Present offered up a power point presentation presenting their findings from their science experiments, maths work and history investigation. Finally, the Design and Make group offered the audience a sample of the delicious chocolate brownies they made and then performed a chocolate dance celebrating the Aztecs, who discovered cocoa.

The Investigate and Present group presenting their findings

In the end, I think that everyone would agree that the Open Day was a great success, achieving its purpose which was to show parents a sample of life at BSB; it was also a lot of fun for both teachers and students.

Alex, Year 10

and 11 out of 12 flew! I even got to speak in German with an American accent as part of the drama that we performed. I also I want to say how well I htought Nikita did, talking in front of the whole school on only his second day at BSB.

so activities to do with drama are important. In our group we had to devise a music piece based on the Aztecs style of music and perform an advertisement for ‘Choco Slurp’, a new chocolate drink brand we made up”

Jasmina, Year 9: “I thought Open Day was so much fun, and very useful! I really liked my choice of group ‘Explore, Express, and Perform’. I think the type of activities we did will be very useful in the future when we begin to work as I will have to introduce myself and communicate well with people,

May, Year 9: “It was amazing what we did in one day! We made a chocolate commercial combining both music, drama and costume design together, and we also made music as a whole group! My favourite part was the assembly where we got to see what everybody else had done during the day!”

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Key Stage 2 House Captain review

Olt

Arges

This term has been very exciting and Olt have improved throughout the year and are now in 2nd place. They have done a great job in earning house points and winning the Behaviour Cup.

Arges have made excellent progresses all through the year; improving how we behave in assembly, earning even more house points, but unfortunately we are last on the house point chart.

Primary House Competition Update

They have also been working as a team during every house activity. They used lots of teamwork in the Eco Quiz. Olt is very enthusiastic during house activities. During the house games they played extremely well. Keep up the good work!

Tatum, 6D, Vice House Captain

Arges have also done really well in the house team competitions. we lost only 1 or 2 times and although we never won, we always made equal scores with the other houses, except for 1 time when the game was won by us, thanks to Jarrod and Sacha. I hope we continue like this and improve even more with our house point total.

Andrei, 6D, House Captain

Danube Danube has made great progress this year. We have been great at winning the Behaviour Cup many times. I think we have won it 7 times since I have been House Captain.

It has been an exciting year so far in the Primary House Competition with Danube starting strongly but losing ground over the last few months.

Mures Mures has been a good house team for most of the year. We are in 1st place in both KS1 and KS2 and have won a lot of Behaviour Cups. Mures is currently leading;

Calin and Suparnan receiving the trophy on behalf of their houses

In the quizzes that Miss Hussain has arranged for us, we have done even better than I thought we’d do, including last term when we used to play football and basketball, even in bench ball we won every time. We did well in football and tried our best in basketball. I think Danube students have got the most certificates for good behaviour and good work this term, which is great. We could, however, have done better in getting house points because we are in 3rd place. I’m sure we will do excellent Sports Day and if we work hard we can still win the competition.

Antonio, 6D, House Captain

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Mures are currently in the lead with over 4000 points, however, Olt are hot on their heels. It is clear that Arges have some catching up to do, but there is still plenty of time left – it looks like it will be a thrilling finish! Good luck to all the Houses.

We are a great team and have worked really hard doing well in the quiz and other House events. As house captain, I have worked hard to make sure that everybody sits properly in assemblies. In the house competitions we competed well against Danube and Arges, but not so well against Olt- two out of three- quite good in fact! Mures students have won lots of certificates this term, which looks good for our house, so keep up the good work everyone. I know we are going to win this year.

Egor, 6D, Vice House Captain

May the best house win!

Mr Sonny Leese, Primary School House Committee

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Secondary House Captain review

Danube

Olt

We are still in the lead! Hooray! But it doesn’t mean that we have to start getting lazy and not gaining house points anymore... Approximately we have 100 more house points than Olt, who are speedily catching up.

A big hello to everyone in Olt! I know that lately things haven’t been going so well for us, because we haven’t won the weekly House Cup for a while now. However, as you can see from the house graph, we are in second place and only 100 house points behind Danube.

Secondary House Competition Update

Danube! Wake up! We can’t sit around doing nothing because we already are winning! Among all we are still doing a great job and waiting patiently for the next house team games. This term was very busy for all of us. Some of us had exams and some of us had harder work than they used to.

Sports day is approaching too! Danube will make a great effort, I am sure of it and i fully support my team on their fair play. We have to reach the finish line together passing exams, working hard to complete our class work and homework successfully, and make BSB history with a historic Danube win in 2009. We can do it!

Polen, Year 7, Danube House Captain

Mures Hello, Mures, this is your captain speaking!

I would like to inform to you that Mures has been going very well this term.

It’s doesn’t take much effort to get an extra 100 points and there is still plenty of time to win the House Competition for yet another year. If we all work really hard and try to get as many house points as possible, we can start winning the Weekly House Cup again and retake the lead. I know we can do it! Come on OLT! Let’s win this House Competition!

Nour, Year 12, Olt Captain

Arges I would firstly like to congratulate Danube for working hard to maintain their top position. Good work guys. Secondly, I would like to thank every member of Arges for doing their best to collect house points. However, giving our best looks like it’s not enough.

Issue 3 Update! There has been no let up in the house point saga and we have now crossed the 1000 house point barrier. I reported in my last update that Danube continued to hold the lead on house points overall. Since then, there have been a number of house team events and new initiatives set up. The Secondary House Point Committee have worked alongside the Eco committee to create an ‘Eco System’. This allows secondary students to select Acts of Green which help the environment such as ‘turn off lights when they are not in use’. For each Act of Green a student records, they are given 2 house points and so will be calculated alongside the other house points.

Polen receiving the Weekly House Cup for Danube

We have won for the past 3 weeks in a row, so I would like to thank everyone in Mures for their contribution in helping Mures to win. I look forward for more hearing more news of our house’s success in the remaining months before summer break- GO MURES! Denis, Year 10, Mures House Captain

We are falling behind every week more and more.

Although we caught up a bit a few weeks ago in the Astronomy related assembly, we are still a long way behind. We are in one of the lowest positions and there are only a few months left. So, let’s do the very best that we can and try to get a higher position or even win, because we still have a chance and a bit of time left. That’s all we need isn’t it! And of course determination, which I think is in plentiful supply in Arges. So let’s do it! GO ARGES!

As a result of all these events, Danube have continued to extend their lead with over 1300 points! With only two months left in the competition it will be interesting to see if Danube can maintain their momentum.

So watch this space to see who wins the Secondary School House Competition Trophy for 2009.

Mr Bohdan Pantella, House Competition Committee

Andreea, Year 10, Olt Captain

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Class Pages

Creche Gafencu The children have been very busy recently learning about plants and jungle animals. Our learning journey all began when we decided to read the book ‘The Animal Boogie’. The children enjoyed the book so much that not only did they make their own lions, tigers and monkeys, but they also got dressed up in wild animal costumes.

We created our own book called “The Story of the Sunflower”. After visiting an online gallery to view Van Gogh’s Sunflower paintings we took turns and carefully painted a replica. We used acrylic paint and a canvas so it really does look like a real painting.

A silent auction will be held later on in the year for those of you who wish to be the proud owner of the replica painting.

The children also got involved in making a fantastic Dinosaur display, which they are all very proud of.

Mrs Claire O’Brien, Class Teacher

Pre School C

The arrival of spring

Ms Priscilla Varban, Creche Class Teacher

Creche Pipera

Dave, Adrian, Marcela and Paris

Gardening outdoors

From learning about jungle animals we went on to feeding and even having a picnic with our favourite animals and so, learning about fruits and vegetables. We talked all about vegetables and then decided to plant our own vegetable garden right in our classroom, so we would be able to keep a close eye on our little plants.

Matthew is a very Scary Dinosaur

These past few weeks have seen a dramatic change in the children in the Pipera Creche, as they have started to become very confident and independent in the choices and decisions they make.

One topic that has been particularly prominent in the children’s days has been dinosaurs! We have enjoyed reading the book Dinosaur Roar and this has led us on a journey of discovery.

The arrival of spring has been a great inspiration for our activities this term. The children have taken great delight in exploring changes in the environment, and our school grounds have provided us with a wonderful environment in which to explore. We discovered where seeds come from when we cut up fruit, and moved on to plant a range of seeds, and as I write this we are still waiting excitedly to see which of our seeds grow: the students know we need to water them, and then to wait patiently for our beans, flowers, and strawberries to grow.

Amelie, Agata, Ana, Greta, and Alex are ready to plant cherry tomatoes

We planted everything we will need to make our very own delicious and healthy salad. First we went outside to fill our plant pots with soil. Next we took turns looking at our tiny lettuce, cherry tomato, cucumber and bean seeds. Then we took turns watering the seeds we planted. Each day one of the children is responsible for watering and taking care of our vegetable garden. Our gardening topic led us to learning about sunflowers.

John and Daniel taking care of their seeds

Ayesha and Esperanza get painting a Big Dinosaur

One of the really noticeable developments this term has been how much more confident and independent the children have become. The whole class has made such progress and this was perfectly illustrated on World Book Day, when so many children were proud to show off their costumes and join in with our Book Day fun.

Mrs Helen Calthrop, Class teacher

Preschool Gafencu

Mariam, Jonty,Bianca,Lisa, Samuel and Sunayana are Roaring Greta, Ana and Amelie are walking through the jungle

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The children have been acting out the various characters from the story, so we have had Happy dinosaurs, Grumpy Dinosaurs, Big dinosaurs and Scary dinosaurs walking around the classroom.

Recently Preschool has been learning about colours, shapes and patterns. The students really enjoyed mixing colours and discovered that they could make new colours by mixing together primary colours.

They learned that 2D shapes can be used to create interesting paintings and drawings and that 3D shapes are great for building structures. Cameron noticed that his yoghurt container was shaped like a cylinder and Martina pointed out that an apple looked like a sphere. The students examined

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man-made patterns and patterns in the natural world and were especially interested in the patterns on animal fur, such as zebras, cheetahs, and giraffes.

Our next topic will be related to animals and we are looking forward to our trip to the circus to see some very exciting performances by some of our favourite animals.

Mrs Gina d’Entremont, Preschool Gafencu Class Teacher

Preschool, Pipera H I would like to start this 1H review with a big thank you! When someone contributed a bag of recyclable materials to our model making area one of the items was a glossy magazine about cars.

The children, particularly the boys, spent ages looking at it individually or in small groups.

Indeed, for one child, it was the first thing he looked for on arrival in the classroom each morning!

World Book Day characters

Oskar, Arish, Filipa and Kriti enjoy role play

Thank you for your recycled items and please continue to send them in.

Ms Kath Homer, Class teacher

Reception B

Benjamin and Cameron mixing colours

World Book Day was a big success with many children dressing up as their favourite book character. The teachers got into the spirit of that day by dressing up as well with Miss Gabriela as the butterfly from “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” Miss Alexandra as “Winnie the Witch” and myself as “The Cat in the Hat.” Our book theme for the day was ‘Dr. Seuss’ and we were lucky to have a visitor come to read us “Green Eggs and Ham”.

Tudor, Irina and Calin building structures

Reception B Visits Mega Image Reception B would like to extend a very big thank you to Mega Image for welcoming us in to their store and taking the time to show us around. They were extremely kind and patient with us while we all wheeled our carts around and did our shopping.

The biggest surprise was that we could see the ground through the engine!

The magazine has in fact covered all aspects of our curriculum perfectly: we have talked about colours, about shapes, counting in the correct order and number recognition. It has also provided a huge opportunity for development in PSE (Personal Social and Emotional), as we have had to decide who would have which car and how many cars we could each have. Needless to say, the magazine eventually fell apart , which again was another learning curve as this gave us a chance to think about the use and care of books; we have even had to consider how we feel about and deal with the eventual absence of a favourite thing. The magazine also sparked an interest in travel, which has taken us to the school gates to identify different vehicles; we have also listened to the sounds of transport, which is one benefit of being close to the airport! We visited the car park and investigated the engines and different parts of a car; the registration plates were ideal for trying to find the first letter of your name. We have used large packing boxes to make our own car and used up a month’s supply of junk boxes and tape to make and attach engines. Without drawing breath or losing one iota of interest in cars, we have begun to be interested in rockets and planets and where our home countries are!

This half-term has been a big one for our class and we have seen many changes in the children. They are becoming so independent and so grown up!

Robert, Patrick and Chloe have especially enjoyed working in our supermarket and we finished up our supermarket theme by taking a trip to the local Mega Image to buy some ingredients for our cooking. We then moved in to growing and you can see things like cress, beans and flowers growing all around our class. The children have planted them and are caring for them all on their own, especially Marcel and Maia who make sure there are no weeds creeping in.

Arthur (Robert) and the Mouse from the Gruffalo (Martin)

We would also like to thank the parent volunteers who came with us and helped us read our shopping lists and the volunteers who helped us cook all the food after we did our shopping.

Thank you parents for helping us have a fantastic day!!

Reception B Reception B visits Mega Image

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Reception Gafencu We have changed our role play area a number of times this term. We started with Café G, which encouraged the children to write menus and food orders.

We all brave the dull weather for our historical trip

Here are the lovely ladies of Reception B: Snow White (Haruna), Dora the Explorer (Tabi), Ariel (Manuela), Snow White (Electra), Fairy (Chloe), Cinderella (Maddie), a fairy (Enya), Alice in Wonderland (Maia) and Snow White (Isabelle) Doctor Eva putting a bandage on the baby’s head

Tae Min, Emi, Ali and Mert pretend to be paramedics

Luca, Smruti and Claudia in the pirate ship Watch out or the Romans, The Prince of Narnia and the Police Officer will lock you up! Marcel, Noah, Patrick and Al-Hussain

Reception H - Little Explorers The children in Reception H have recently become very interested in transportation- making models, learning key words, and putting up traffic signs outside. As an extension of this, we have been learning about maps and directions.

They also worked with the play money, giving their customers a bill and handing over some change.

We then visited a local Japanese restaurant to see some real chefs in action and even set up our own real café for a day serving our parents- which everyone really enjoyed.

Next we made a pirate ship from large cardboard boxes, which inspired us to make maps, write stories and really immerse ourselves in a character – ‘Aye, Aye Captain’.

Currently we have a doctor’s surgery, so if you are feeling under the weather, please come and get a prescription for some medicine.

Ms Angela Harvey, Head of Foundation

Year 1H We have been busy learning many fascinating facts and developing our various skills since the last issue of Newsblast. We have had some very special Stars of the Week including Mert and Paul for excellent improvement in their independent writing.

Eva and Anouk have made some stunning origami creations in their university course and taken great pride in showing their peers.

Thomas, Isabella, Tom, Gregory, Paloma, and Catinca as traffic wardens

The children have been enjoying going on walks, noticing what ‘landmarks’ they pass, counting the steps, estimating how long it takes, and making their own maps with pictures taken along the way.

We have been incorporating as many outdoor activities as possible for this theme, making good use of the facilities and the warmer weather.

Ms Jessica Bremer, Class teacher

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Andrei and Aziz have been specially noted for their talent and team spirit during their football skills course too. In the past weeks 1H have learnt all about how paramedics help us and had a splendid time looking inside an ambulance and asking the paramedics who visited all sorts of gory questions!

We also stretched our legs and ventured away from school to the Village Museum. We were surprised at how different the houses were; some of us would love to experience living in them – although we are glad to have indoor bathrooms!

Our Mums and Dads have also been very busy making delicious treats for our bake sale back in March.

We raised lots of money and are looking forward to buying resources to help us create and learn even more next term. Well done to everyone!

Mr Stuart Harrison, Class Teacher

Year 1J

Enjoying the arrival of Spring 1J have had a fantastic spring term so far, with one of the highlights being their recent assemblywhich they put lots of time and effort into. They are growing really fast and it’s been amazing to see the progress they’ve all made since I first met them in September. We had a great Book Week, exploring a story called ‘On the way home’ by Jill Murphy, which the children extended and developed in their own way, thinking of their own imaginary characters they’d like to meet on the way home. They had some really creative ideas such as a talking clock, an animated pumpkin, a flying building and a dinosaur who gives people rides to get home.

Lots of the children dressed up as characters.

Jackson came in an amazing, shimmering, silver alien costume, Daniel M was a dragon and Tudor did really well to keep a sheet over his head all day, peeping through the eyes, as a ghost! All of their confidence has improved, not only in areas of the curriculum but all of them are much keener to participate in lessons and more eager to get involved in every aspect of school life, reminding me that the enthusiasm for learning of a five year old is, at times, unparalleled.

Ms Helen Jezeph Class Teacher

Year 2B 2B have had lots of excitement this term. They went on two trips – the Village Museum and the National Art Museum during which they had a wonderful time.

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2B’s King Henry VIII display

Our class assemblies have featured lots of information on historical figures from the past. 2B performed assemblies on both Florence Nightingale and King Henry VIII. The photo is from our Chinese New Year assembly during which we performed our very own dragon dance!

2B practise their dragon dance for their Chinese New Year assembly

2B also enjoyed some very tasty pancakes on Shrove Tuesday. Ms Banks and Ms Livia cooked up a feast in the DT room. Yum yum.

Andrew making a circuit

Ms Lindsey Banks, Key Stage 1 Coordinator

Year 2W 2W have been working hard learning about Electricity. Andrew discovered how to make a circuit after just a few minutes of experimentation and just moments later Christian worked it out too.

Victor used his ICT skills to design a house with an electrical circuit. He’ll later use his drawing to make his own working model - we’re looking forward to the finished result.

National Art Museum trip 2B art workshop

During Book Week we studied the New Zealand author Lynley Dodd, who has written rhyming stories about cats and dogs.

For Book Week 2W learned about the author Julia Donaldson. We read the story Stick Man and then decided it would be good to have a Stick Man of our own. So the whole class went outside to collect the material needed for his body. As you can see we quite successfully brought him to life.

He now has his own special place in the class and learns alongside the children.

2W Team Work - Aoife, Sara, Simon, Andrew, Salaar

School trip to Village Museum

Mrs Puddy-Wells brought in her very own Snitzle Von Krum (with the very low tum) and Scarface Claw (the toughest tom in town) to visit our class and we had a wonderful time petting them! Not sure if they enjoyed themselves as much as we did though!

Congratulations go to Alexander who won the best costume prize for his super Scarface Claw costume, it was purrrfect!

Anastassia’s truck

Maxence and Sara with their finished Stick Man

Erin’s tractor

In DT, 2W have been learning about vehicles. Here you can see some of their designs produced using simple graphic 2D software. The children learned how to use the Scale, Transform, Shape, Pen and Fill tools to create their work.

The 2B Classroom

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Simon, Deniz, Nina, Andrew and Sara collecting sticks for Stick Man

Mr Mark Williams, Class Teacher

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Year 3

Year 4H

The children in Year 3 decided to get busy in the kitchen. They happily planned their sandwich making task, cheerily withdrawing their allotted 20 RON from the bank. The different groups, armed with their ingredient lists boarded the bus at different times to go shopping to Jolie Ville.

There they shopped trying to stay within the budget. While some groups shopped, other groups rotated to different stations composing poetry and doing pattern art with potatoes, mushrooms and onions.

In 4H this term we have had a lot of fun in Numeracy. We studied money and got to do a special activity involving adding and spending money.

Shopping and Sandwich Making

Working with numbers

We pretended that we had a book store and when people came to buy the books we used fake money to purchase the books.

The store keepers also got to give the right amount of change. This was a really good way to learn all about money. Another exciting maths lesson was building 3-D shapes. We were given straw, toothpicks and clay and were challenged to make 3-D shapes.

Joana and Hannah, 4H

that bad. We have literally been burying ourselves in history this term as we have learnt about Ancient Egypt. On Open Day we took part in an archaeological dig. Mr Kennedy excavated some soil and we all searched through it eagerly, trying to find lost treasure. Tasos found a very interesting stone that we looked at under the digital microscope. In Mathematics we have recently been learning about Venn and Carroll diagrams. We understand how to place information into the correct area and are able to draw conclusions from them.

As the weather gets warmer we are all looking forward to more exciting activities and long sunny afternoons. What a great year it has been so far and next term we have our big trip to look forward to, as we are going to Poiana Brasov for two nights, where we will climb up a mountain and enjoy a variety of outdoor cooperative games.

Students from 4K

Journalistic Writing

Year 3 students enjoying eating their sandwiches

Lots of fun was had creating the most outlandish sandwiches the next day. The best part was eating the sandwiches which ranged from the normal ham and lettuce to chocolate and jelly. The bad part was cleaning up the kitchen.

Oscar from 4H amazed at the strength of triangles

In Year 4 we have been learning about journalistic writing. In this unit, we were given a story concerning a grandfather and a laundry basket.

There are a few important points that we have to memorise in order to write a good report. First of all, it should be written in an informative way, i.e. providing lots of accurate facts, unlike story writing where one can improve or create new situations to make the story interesting. Secondly, it is always in the past tense as you are reporting something that has already happened. As a journalist, it is your role to interview people to get useful findings and release a good report. Thirdly, it is essential to stay closel to the main facts; however, you are allowed to prompt questions to create curiosity. Finally, do not forget to include the name of your newspaper.

Daniel, 4K

Year 4

Design and Technology

Mena, Calista and Kayla from Year 4 working together to make 3-D Shapes

For Design and Technology class this term in Year 4, we were challenged to make an alarm to protect a treasure hidden in a Pyramid. It started with us watching a clip of Indiana Jones, which gave us a taste of how it should be. Then, we were separated into 8 groups.

Seo Young and Joana, 4H, work together to complete their alarm

We were given some materials to build, which included, batteries, a buzzer and a light bulb. My group had a bit of a struggle building our alarm because it didn’t work in the beginning. However, when we discovered that tin foil conducts electricity, we changed our model.

Year 3 students making sandwiches

This is what the children thought about shopping and sandwich making: How did you feel about spending money?

“I felt very happy because I like shopping.” Michal “I had fun because I like making sandwiches.” Hannah “I felt sad because I like keeping money.” Samaa Describe your sandwich.

“It was good and tasty.” Ioana “It was very bad.” Diana “Good, kind of spicy, but good.” Engin “We were very happy to go to Jollie Ville. We bought ham, salami, nutela and jam for our sandwich. We needed to work in groups and I made a sandwich for Mr Leese. He said the sandwich was very tasty. We went by bus to the shops and sang a song.” Cristina Mrs Veno Pillay Year 3 Teacher

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4H girls running their book store

Year 4K Class update

It’s been a fantastically busy term in 4K. We started with a rousingly successful class assembly based around a typical day in 4K. Many parents came to watch us perform, and the script was written by all of us. Daniel played the part of Tutankhamen, and we imagined what it would be like if the boy King was a student at BSB. An amazing fact that we have learnt is that historians believe that Tutankhamen became Pharaoh of Egypt when he was only nine years old, the same age as us in Year 4. He didn’t have to do homework, so he really didn’t have it

Tudor, 4H, rigging his alarm

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Communication Whilst at the Museum we also learnt about the development of the telegraph system, which was used when people wanted to communicate with people far away. Samuel Morse invented the ‘Morse Code’ to enable people to send messages along a wire by telegraph possible. Eventually all the major cities in the world were linked by electric telegraph, and in 1866 the first successful underwater telegraph line was laid across the Atlantic Ocean by the ship ‘The Great Western’.

Naif from 4H completes a circuit for Design and Technology

Year 6D

Goals and Targets In Year 6D, many students have been working hard on achieving goals to improve their work. A lot of us have achieved our goals and here are just some examples of success in our work: • Idan has been getting excellent results in his weekly mental maths scores.

• Rhea has regularly completed Ms Ullman’s science challenge and received certificates for doing this.

• Hristos has excelled in ‘Flowol’ programs in ICT lessons.

• Rhys wrote an amazing paragraph based on an extract about a pilgrimage to Mecca, called ‘The Hajj’.

As you can see Year 6D has been working really hard on achieving its goals. Good job 6D! Reporting for NewsBlast Undercover reporters from 6D

Miss Oana, The Museum Curator, tells students about the exhibits

Alex, 4K, explains how his alarm works

Our alarm was activated when a person stepped on the foil and completed the circuit. At the end of the lesson we tested them; almost everyone had great ideas but some worked better than others.

All in all, we had a magnificent time and learned a lot about circuits.

Antoine, 4K

Year 5B

Railway Museum Trip brings History to life On our Year Five trip this term we went to the Railway Museum. There were many models of trains and also a really big clock. We learnt a lot while we were there, such as the fact that trains were invented in the Industrial Revolution and were first used in the mines- poor children had to push the carts along the narrow paths and tunnels.

After the railway system developed in the mines, people started to make railways above ground for the wagons. The wagons were first pulled by ponies because steam locomotives weren’t invented at that time. Then, in 1825, the first public railway from Stockton to Darlington finally opened. Then came the steam railways in England, one year after steam locomotives were invented by George Stephenson. Next came the London Underground, with the first line being the Metropolitan Line, in 1863.

Steam Locomotives Richard Trevithick built the first locomotive.

Although it wasn’t a great success, it encouraged other scientists to do the same. In 1829, George Stephenson built ‘The Rocket’, a successful steam locomotive. Following on from this other steam locomotives (like the Elleman Lines and the Mallard), which worked in a similar way to ‘The Rocket’, were produced but on a much larger scale.

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The Orient Express We also learnt about The Orient Express, built in 1883: a First-Class passenger train that traveled from Paris to Istanbul in Turkey. It still travels part of this route today. In bygone days, trains were magnificent and huge. Nowadays, if we compare the trains we have with those, it is like comparing a palace with a cottage! Technology has increased so much in a few short years!

Alexandra, 5B

Year 5T

Learning all about the Victorians In History and Literacy we have been learning about Victorians. We decided that we could work on Victorians in DT as well. We are looking at musical instruments in Design Technology and thought how we could design them in a Victorian style. 5T have really been enjoying making musical instruments and are putting a lot of hard work into it. First, we paired up in groups of two and started designing the instrument.

Year 6U

6U’s Assembly 6U’s assembly this term was a great success.

It had lots of humour and made lots of people laugh. It started off with two children watching a magic show on television. They then changed the channel to watch a quiz show about what students learn in Year 6. The magic show was extremely fun to act out and we loved doing the mysterious tricks (which worked out extremely well). We had lots of commercials, which included three mad scientists doing a science experiment that didn’t work, a gymnastics performance, a poetry reading and a maths song. The audience seemed to have lots of fun!

We are all progressing well in the classroom and we are particularly impressed by Manuela’s improvement in English, Robert’s scientific conclusions and Harry reaching two hundred nights in his reading log. In addition to this, we have been very busy out of school, with Johann, Harry and Anthime all receiving a medal for their achievement in fencing.

Filippo and Johann, 6U

6U assembly mad scientists Eleanor and Werner constructing their musical instrument

Then we wrote down what materials we needed; this was a way of recycling as we tried to bring them from home. After that, we started putting all the materials together and then decorated them in the Victorian style. We all really had a lot of fun designing and making our musical instruments.

Finally a big Congratulations to Sarah and Daniel for winning the Poetry Competition. Well Done!

Year 5T 6U assembly magic show

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Why are observations an important part of CPD? It is not perhaps everyone’s favourite part of the job, but everyone appreciates that teachers need to observe, and to be observed by their peers at regular intervals throughout the year. At BSB a number of observations take place throughout the course of the year: staff are encouraged to observe each others lessons, formal observations are conducted twice a year where senior management observes teachers and gives formal feedback, and of course there are the observations that take place when there is a external school inspection by ECIS, ISI, or one of the two additional inspectors invited each year to visit.

The first time I was watched delivering a lesson, as a new teacher several years ago, I remember feeling apprehensive about the fact that I might be told that I was doing things the ‘wrong’ way, and even that I might be told to try a different job! However, the meeting that followed was a revelation, as the observer praised the areas of my teaching that worked well, and pointed out simple ways to improve upon what I was already doing. Since that initial observation I have been observed more times than I can remember and I have come to believe now that being observed by one’s peers as well as by a more experienced colleague is an essential means to improve as a teacher and to become a confident and competent professional.

BSB Prague Conference, Ms Kemp with Mr Mick Waters

COBIS Conference Prague, for Leaders and Teachers 5th and 6th February 2009

A Changing World: Challenges for Schools The conference was attended by delegates from COBIS schools across Europe and was opened to other international delegations from as far afield as Mumbai, India. Dr Fiona Rogers, the COBIS General Secretary welcomed delegates in the key note address by highlighting the changing world of global education and the many positive features that point out why teaching in International Schools is so rewarding. “The world is changing so quickly!” she exclaimed. “If we take a child who is entering their first year of school today, it is difficult to imagine what the world will be like for that child fifteen years from now. The youth of today

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inhabit a very different world than one could have conceived of, even as short a time as fifteen years ago. If we think of communication and how that has developed, it becomes apparent just how fast things are changing! As leaders and teachers, we have a huge challenge: How can we ensure a child passing through our school today can be ready for the demands of the world tomorrow?”

There were seven respected speakers, very well known both nationally and internationally, and there were numerous lectures addressing issues to help equip schools with the tools necessary to overcome the challenges of a changing world. The conference was an opportunity for COBIS schools to network, to share good practice and to work with internationally renowned experts in response to the needs of pupils in an ever changing world.

My personal highlights were the sessions headlined

by Mick Waters, the Executive Director of the Curriculum at QCA who headed three sessions entitled: The Curriculum: Making in Matter, Leadership: Making it Matter; and Learning: Making it Matter. Mr Hamacher was particularly impressed by the sessions led by Jenny Mosley, the creator of the ‘Circle Time Model’ widely used in Primary Schools around the world.

The conference was excellent and both Mr Hamacher and I have started our mammoth task of disseminating the valuable information with both Primary and Secondary Staff.

Ms J Kemp Assistant Head of Secondary

Therefore, in a school such as BSB, which employs teachers who already have considerable experience, peer observations, in my opinion, still play a crucial role. They provide us with a opportunity to appraise our approach to teaching through the process of watching others teach, and prevent us from the routine of using tried and tested methods until they become stale. An observer can also help to suggest new ways of gaining or holding the students’ attention, of presenting a new idea, or for arranging the classroom.

Watching a colleague teach can provide even the most experienced teacher with new ideas for their own classes and in so doing enable teachers to continue to improve, which is what CPD (Continuing Professional Development) is all about.

Teacher observations, both formal and informal, are just one facet of CPD that is encouraged at BSB to ensure that teaching quality is kept as high as possible, and that staff benefit from each others’ amassed experience. It is a practice that teachers expect to find in place at any quality school, and an experience that usually turns out to be positive experience for both the observed and the observer alike.

Mr Bill Ellis, EAL Teacher

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BSB Pub Quiz enjoyed by all Though not technically referred to as CPD, staff social events are still a very important part of the school life helping to form stronger relationships between the primary and secondary schools and within the teaching faculties. One event that stands out on the BSB social staff calendar this term is the BSB Pub Quiz, where teachers were pooled into groups of 5 to sharpen their wits and test their IQs in an all out do or die challenge. There was a great staff turnout at the Garlic Pub allowing for a total of 5 teams to take part and in the very tense but enjoyable competition. In the end, the winning team included Mr Kevin Power, Mr Bill Ellis, Mrs Claire O’Brien, Ms Dorothea Draser, and Ms Jen Kemp, with Ms Tanya Biryukova included as an unofficial 6th member.

BSB Secondary School receives Preliminary inspection As you are possibly all aware of, an inspector recently visited our school in order to give us advice on how to improve and help our school develop, in preparation for the upcoming ISI Inspection Born in the North-East of England, in Newcastle, but currently living in Yorkshire, Mrs Val Blackburn started teaching science right after graduating from university, telling me it is a subject in which she has approximately 30 years of experience. However, Mrs. Blackburn has also occupied different jobs in schools she has taught in. For example, in a school in Lincolnshire, she was part of the senior management ICT team and did consultancy work; and in Leeds University, she occupied the job of a part-time tutor for post-graduate scientists.

She retired from full-time teaching twelve years ago, because she felt she couldn’t carry on the demanding pace anymore - but since she couldn’t totally separate from this job, she decided to become a school inspector. Over the past twelve

CACHE Level 2 Certificate for Teaching Assistants Staff grouped into team tables for the BSB Pub Quiz

The BSB Staff Social Committee is hoping to organise several fun events in the lead up to the summer break. We hope to see you all at the next social gathering.

Mrs Claire O’Brien, BSB Staff Social Committee member

years, Mrs.Blackburn has inspected over 100 schools, including the school where our Maths teacher, Mrs Houette, did her instruction. In her opinion, the job of a school inspector suits her very well, mainly because she loves meeting new people; however, the disadvantage of the job, Mrs Blackburn says, is that she is traveling way too much.

This was Mrs. Blackburn’s first time in Romania, and, in her opinion, it was an enjoyable stay – she was very well looked after and will most probably come back. In our school, Mrs Blackburn found the atmosphere, the friendship, the calmness, and the warm welcome a big plus; as for the number of stairs - no comment.

Outside Mrs Blackburn’s professional working life, she plays the oboe in an orchestra and is an involved citizen in her community, representing her village in a local group that’s working together with the police for a safer neighborhood. Mrs Blackburn’s free-time activities include taking care of the vegetable garden she has back home in Yorkshire. She also enjoys listening to swing and 60’s and 70’s rock music and says the movie “Slumdog Millionaire” is a must-see.

At the start of this year BSB offered some of the TAs a chance to enroll in a course with The Teaching Assistant College, which is a training organization specialising in e-learning courses for teaching assistants.

The CACHE Level 2 Certificate for Teaching Assistants provides a U.K. nationally recognized qualification for candidates supporting teachers in schools. I decided to do this course because I wanted to improve my work skills and knowledge as a TA and of course to get the TA diploma at the end of the course. So far I can say that the course has been very interesting as there has been a lot to learn because it covers all aspects of TA work. The topics of the course are split into 2 units: Unit 1: Supporting the Curriculum Supporting Literacy Supporting Numeracy Supporting Information Communication Technology The Planning Process Supporting Pupil’s Learning How to Scaffold Learning on task Unit 2 : Working within the school The role of the teaching assistant in school Policies and Procedures Relationships with Pupils Encouraging Positive Behaviour

Oh, and Mrs Blackburn is also a good Italian speaker.

I would like to say a big thank you to Ms Kemp for assisting me with the interview!

Senia, Year 10 Ramona working with the Art Skills University Course

At the end of each unit there is an assignment set by CACHE. For Unit 1 this involves planning, implementing and evaluating an activity for Literacy, one for Numeracy and another for ICT. At the end of Unit 2 there is also an assignment in which you need to include information about roles and responsibilities between the teaching assistant and other team members, policies and procedures, establishing effective relationships with pupils and the importance of encouraging learning, independence and responsibility, supporting pupils in working towards behaviour targets.

I’ve just finished my assignment for Unit 1 and I’m waiting for the result from CACHE. Ms Parascan, 3L TA Ms Jane Greenwood, Head of Secondary, with Secondary School inspector, Mrs Val Blackburn

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German Club for native speakers

The German club proudly announces their first publication called Deutschizini. It is a magazine with contributions from all the children in the club: Nina, Charlie, Florian, Louis, Hannah and Julia (unfortunately missing in the photo). In making this magazine we were inspired by looking at the famous Medizini, a postermagazine usually given out for free in German chemist shops.

Greek Club for native speakers

Indoor Rowing Club

It contains among other thing a crossword puzzle about Space by Florian, a drawing competition by Julia, a picture story and a word search by Hannah. You may also get a copy from Ms Draser.

There were some very enthusiastic students in Mr Kennedy’s Indoor Rowing Club this term. In the Rowing Club we learnt how to use the rowing machines and the proper rowing technique. We also completed circuits of other exercises. Patrick 4K and Csaba 3L were outstanding. Patrick rowed the farthest over a 4 minute session, while Csaba had the highest average over the half term.

All the students improved over the term and made good progress.

Patrick shows his winning technique that maybe one day will take him to the Olympics.

The Greek club for native speakers is the fourth in the series: along with a French, German and Romanian club we now have one for Greek as well (there is a Spanish one starting soon).

In our Greek Club we have enjoyed reading some of Aristo-FUN-es’ great comedies, such as Lysistrata, Acharnias, Peace, The Wasps, The Birds and Wealth. We have been learning more about life in Ancient Athens and the democracy.

We had a glimpse into Greek history exploring the devastating Peloponesian War and the wars of Alexander the Great. Our interest focused on the evils of war and the blessings of peace. It was amazing to see that Europe owes a lot to Greek culture.

Tassos, Alexandra, Elias, and Fivos with teacher Mrs Grammatikoudi

Mrs Elektra Grammatikoudi, Club teacher

Spy Club

WARNING - THIS MESSAGE COULD SELF DESTRUCT IN 12 SECONDS. TOP SECRET INFORMATION Ms Banks and her team of agents have been learning spy skills every Thursday after school. Although the activities of the Spy Club must remain top secret for international intelligence reasons, Ms Banks

can reveal that her agents have learnt a range of skills. Agents are skilled in the art of disguise, code breaking and double agent detection skills. Can you spot the BSB pupils underneath their cunning disguises below? Staff and pupils need to remain alert and remember that the Spy Club are watching and listening at all times!

This is Agent Banks signing out.

The BSB Monthly Ladies Lunch Enjoy Caru cu Bere Hospitality

On Tuesday February 10th, those who joined the Ladies Lunch of the Month party were treated to lunch by Mr Petrescu, the owner of Caru cu Bere.

The wonderfully historic facade of Caru cu Bere

The mixed cheese and cold meat platter starter

The interior decor of Caru cu Bere

BSB Parents enjoying a lunch out

This famous Romanian restaurant offered the ladies the chance to taste traditional Romanian food in beautiful surroundings. We shared a mixed cheese and cold meat platter to start with, which was delicious, followed by various main course dishes including fish, grilled chicken and traditional sarmalute, none of which disappointed.

The service was excellent and we would highly recommend a visit. Also, a big thank you to Mr Petrescu for your very kind hospitality.

Mrs Cathy Rouf

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Important Dates

Apr 10th-24th Apr 27th May 1st May 6th

Spring Break - School closed Start of 3rd Term National Holiday- School closed Year 10 Reports and letters to parents May 4th-7th ISI Inspection week May 11th Key Stage 3 Exams May 12th Year 10 Parent’s Evening May 13 Year 6 Transition Day: Year 7 students visit the Year 6 students in class May 14th Key Stage 2 Space Day May 20th Science Day May 25th,26th Y3 Residential trip Sinaia May 25th-27th Y4 Residential trip Poiana Brasov

May 25th-29th Y6 SATs Week May 28th, 29th Visiting Author May 30th June 5th Y6 Venice trip Y5 Residential trip Moeciu June 1st-5th June 4th Secondary Production Mamma Mia at Tandrica theatre June 6th Summer Fair June 8th Sports Day June 9th Transition Day Crèche through Year 5 June 10th KS3 Parents Evening Year 7 June 11th KS3 Parents Evening Year 8 & 9

Final IGCSE exams June 12th Year 6 Transition day: students spend the day in the Secondary School June 16th Pipera Foundation Stage Production June 17th KS1 End of Year celebration

June 18-19th June 20th June 22nd, 23rd, 24th June 22nd June 25th June 26th

Gafencu Foundation Stage end of year production PTA event: Party in the Park Key Stage 2 rehearsals for Oliver - All of KS2 students at The Children’s Theatre Foundation Stage Water Day (At Pipera with Gafencu Reception class visiting) Secondary awards ceremony Primary leavers and awards ceremony Final day of school- School closes 12 noon

BSB Summer Fair, June 6th

The BSB Summer Fair is just around the corner and we are looking forward to another fabulous fair on our school grounds. The Fair is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the end of the school year with family and friends. We hope to see you all there. For information about how you can get involved, please contact: Cathryn Henderson, Head of BSB PTA cathryn.henderson@btinternet.com

BSB Summer Fair, June 6th

“Anthony Frost” English Bookshop, first of its kind in Bucharest, is dedicated exclusively to English books and is opened in 45 Calea Victoriei - Kretzulescu Galleries, next to the National Gallery.

Art, photography, fiction, non-fiction, children, travel, comics, fantasy, psychology, philosophy, poetry - all these subjects will be offered to books’ lovers of all ages.

A Big Thank You to the PTA!

Since the school year began in September we have been running after school guitar clubs where the children can learn to strum a few chords and begin their road to rock stardom. As we all know the key to learning any instrument is practice, practice and more practice; to help ensure that the children have the opportunity to carry out this practice, the

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Parent Teacher Association (PTA) have very kindly purchased a set of guitars for the school which can be borrowed by the children so that they can play at home.

If you are one of the fortunate children who has been able to benefit from this, or if you are a parent who has enjoyed hearing your child play numerous renditions of Yellow Submarine or Wild Thing, then I’m sure you will want to join me in saying a BIG thank you to the PTA for their generosity. - Jonathan Moore-Crispin Mr Jonathan Crispin, TA Coordinator

The books are coming from the most prestigious UK and US publishing houses such as Penguin, Random House, Phaidon, Thames and Hudson, Macmillan, Harper Collins, Taylor and Francis, Sage, Cambridge, Yale, Princeton, etc.

A NTHONY FROST ABOUT BOOKS ...

English BookShop Calea Victoriei 45, telefon 021.311.51.38, www.librariaengleza.ro.

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With each season comes new learning opportunities

42, Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, 077190 Voluntari, Ilfov County, Romania T. +40 21 267 89 19 F. +40 21 267 89 69 E. office@britishschool.ro www.britishschool.ro