Hamilton - February 2024 Issue 22

NEWSLETTER www.hamiltoninternationalschool.qa

February 22, 2024 Issue 22

What's New? Matilda The Hamilton International School, in collaboration with the esteemed Doha Players, unveils its second theatrical marvel, "Matilda Jr.". This enchanting production has woven a tapestry of wonder, guiding students alongside seasoned artisans to craft a performance that breathes life into the pages of Roald Dahl's timeless tale.

Through this magical odyssey, students have embraced creativity, forged bonds of unity, and nurtured a profound sense of ownership.

"Stepping into the world of Matilda Jr. at Hamilton is like embarking on an unforgettable journey where every rehearsal is a new adventure, every line spoken, a moment of magic, and every performance an exhilarating swing of emotion. From the strong bonding backstage to the adrenaline rush of sending the kids into the spotlight, being involved in the Matilda Jr. musical this year was a transformative experience that ignited my passion for storytelling and brought me closer to a community bound by creativity and shared dreams.." - Dima Alaas - Parent - Producer.

“In the Matilda show, I have learnt how to express myself through my character. I have enjoyed so much about this play, from auditions, to being casted, to rehearsing, and the final show. Participating in a school musical or any musical can bring you out of your comfort zone and grow you as a person in a safe and healthy way. “ - Hayley S. - Student - Mrs. Wormood.

With over 1000 tickets embraced by eager hands, the magic of "Matilda Jr." continues to captivate hearts and minds alike.

Few seats are still available for the Friday Evening Show 6:00 pm Book your tickets now!

Click here to learn more about the play, the cast, and the crew.

What's happening in the upcoming week Sunday, 25th February Secondary MAP Testing Primary MAP Week 2 QUESS - U13 Boys Basketball - 2:30 pm G8 High School Diploma Parent Meeting - 2:00 pm Monday, 26th February Grade 4RK QNL Trip QPPSSA U8/9/10/11 Girls Athletics @ QAW - 9:00 am QUESS U16 Girls Badminton @ MIS - 2:30 pm EDU Tours University Fair - 7:00 am Tuesday, 27th February Inclusion Acceptance Day QPPSSA U8/9/10/11 Boys Athletics @ QAW - 9:00 am QUESS U12 Boys Basketball - 2:30 pm Wednesday, 28 thFebruary QUESS U12/13/14 Girls Badminton @MIS - 2:30 pm Thursday, 29th February House Color Day Al-Aqsa Day Street Child United Event Friday, 1st March Screen on The Green

Coming Up! Sunday, 3rd March Secondary MAP Testing Primary MAP Week 3 Grade 5 Transition Evening 2:00 pm Book Week Monday, 4th March G2 Trip, Oli Oli - 7:50 am G4 Exit Point - Classrooms - 12:50 pm Book Week Tuesday, 5th March G8,9,11 Parent Online Meeting “How to Submit HSD Options” G8 Trip to Msheireb Museum - 8:00 am G3 Exit Point - Multipurpose Hall - 1:15 pm Book Week Wednesday, 6th March Primary Orchestra Performance Courtyard - 920 am KG2 Trip to World of Wonders Lusail - 8:00 am Book Week Thursday, 7th March End of ECAs World Book Day

What Happened in Hamilton

Mariam Farid At Hamilton We had the incredible honor of hosting Mariam Farid, the trailblazing Qatari athlete who recently made history as the first Qatari woman to compete in two World Championships in hurdles. Her visit was not only a momentous occasion for our school but also a source of immense inspiration for our students.

During her visit, Mariam engaged in a lively question and answer session conducted by our very own media team, Taylen and Victoria. Students had the opportunity to hear firsthand about Mariam's journey, her challenges, and her triumphs in the world of athletics. Her story of perseverance, determination, and breaking barriers left a lasting impression on everyone present.

Mariam's visit reminded us all of the importance of chasing our dreams relentlessly, regardless of the obstacles we may face. Her dedication to her sport and her unwavering belief in herself serve as a powerful example for our students to follow.

We are incredibly grateful to Mariam for taking the time to share her experiences with us and for being such a shining role model for our students. Her visit will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the school year, and we look forward to cheering her on as she continues to achieve greatness in her athletic career.

Well done to our Media Team students who displayed such professionalism and confidence!

‫‪What Happened in Hamilton‬‬ ‫‪Grade 8‬‬ ‫‪Our talented Grade 8 students recently took on the role of a‬‬ ‫‪teacher by presenting a poem they researched to the class.‬‬ ‫‪With impressive attention to detail, they spoke about‬‬ ‫‪langugae and context on a poem and answered further‬‬ ‫!‪challenging questions very well‬‬ ‫!‪Well done to all student‬‬

‫‪Arts‬‬ ‫‪On Wednesday evening, some of our talented students across‬‬ ‫‪secondary had the opportunity to attend an art workshop and‬‬ ‫‪contest hosted by Doha Academy. The students worked on a‬‬ ‫‪piece of art focusing on the theme of "My Qatar". The students‬‬ ‫‪worked really hard during the three hour workshop, impressing‬‬ ‫!‪everyone with their great artistic abilities‬‬

‫مسابقة أخالقنا‬ ‫باألخالق تبنى األمم وتتقدم الدول‪ ،‬ولنا في مدرسة هاملتون الدولية‬ ‫مشاركات فاعلة في تعزيز األخالق والقيم اإلنسانية‪ ،‬تمثلت في‬ ‫مشاركة عدد من الطالب والطالبات في مسابقة أخالقنا التي ترعاها‬ ‫مؤسسة قطر للتعليم‪ ،‬وقد تأهل الطالب تميم النعيمي من الصف‬ ‫الثامن‪ ،‬وفهمي الكبير من الصف الحادي عشر للمرحلة النهائية من‬ ‫المسابقة‪ .‬نتمنى لهما التوفيق والفوز في المسابقة ‪.‬‬ ‫قسم الدراسات األدبية‬

‫براعم هاملتون‬ ‫في إطار تنمية المواهب في المدرسة ‪ ،‬حرص قسم الّدراسات األدبية عىل‬ ‫مشاركة الطالب في مسابقة سرد القصة والتي نظمتها روضة عبدهللا بن زيد‬ ‫المحمود المستقلة ‪ ،‬وقد حازت الطالبة النا جادهللا من التمهيدي عىل‬ ‫المركز الثاني في المسابقة ‪.‬‬ ‫وقد قام مدير المدرسة السيد تيري سينيور بتكريم الطالبة الفائزة‪.‬‬

Houses This year brought about the launch of our new School Houses at Hamilton International School: the formidable Falcons, the dynamic Dolphins, the resilient Oryx, and the observant Sandcats. Each house, embodying a unique ethos, stood as a testament to our school's vision: Igniting passion, purpose, and potential. Witnessing every student finding their place, we embraced family unity and community, ensuring siblings soared, swam, galloped, or stepped side by side in the same houses.

Our mission has always been to foster the spirit of excellence and sound character in our students through an innovative, well-balanced education. With the introduction of this house system, we further embedded our seven core values, led by "I am getting Better," and including respect, resilience, global citizenship, communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence.

Falcons, with their keen vision, inspired us to Fly with Focus and Soar with Purpose, donning the passionate hue of red, symbolizing strength and determination. Dolphins, embodying harmony, beckoned us to Dive Deep, Connect, and Conquer in the calming shades of blue, representing depth and stability. Oryx, with their undying spirit, motivated us to Stand Tall, Thrive, and Transform, clothed in the vibrant green of growth and renewal. Sandcats, with their adaptive nature, reminded us to Seek, Adapt, and Embrace, radiating the brightness of yellow, a sign of optimism and creativity.

So much more awaits these houses, not to mention the introduction of our House Colour Days which will take place on the last Thursday of every month starting on 29th February 2024. This initiative invites students to showcase their house spirit in the most colourful way possible, donning their house's unique colour. It's not just an opportunity to wear vibrant colours; it's a day for students to express their house identity and solidarity, turning our school into a kaleidoscope of red, blue, green, and yellow. These colours tell a story of unity, enthusiasm, and school spirit, making our school environment a vivid display of camaraderie.

The celebratory events such as the Tug of War, Inter-House Art Competition, and Sports Day highlighted the talents, teamwork, and spirit of healthy competition among our students. The current House point standings, showcasing a tight competition with Sandcats currently in the lead and the points totals as follows:

House

Tug of War

Inter-House Art

Sports Day

Total of Date

Current Position

Falcons

250

850

21805

22905

3rd

Dolphins

1000

550

21385

22935

2nd

Oryx

750

575

21380

22705

4th

Sandcats

500

1100

232720

25320

1st

Hot Chocolate Thursday

Grade 5 Transition Meeting

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As part of our transition programme from Primary School to Secondary School I would like to invite you, along with your child, to a Grade 5 Parent Transition Meeting on Sunday 3rd March from 2pm.

This will give you a chance to meet myself, Head of Secondary; Mr. Chris Perry, Assistant Head of Secondary; and many of our staff and students. The event will begin in the Multi-Purpose Hall on the Second Floor, where there will be a short introductory talk informing you about school life in the Secondary School, along with a brief overview of our curriculum and the opportunities that are available beyond the curriculum. You will then have the opportunity to tour the Secondary School, stopping in each classroom to interact with and ask questions of the subject teachers.

Earlier in the school day, Grade 5 students will have had the opportunity to come into the Secondary School for a series of taster lessons delivered by our Secondary School teachers.

We are very much looking forward to meeting you and your child as they begin this important transition journey. Please can you complete and return the slip below no later than Wednesday 28th February, via your child's class teacher, to indicate if you will be attending or not.

Kind regards, Mrs. Rebecca Gough Head of Secondary

Grade 8 High School Diploma Information Event Dear Parents and Guardians, On Sunday 25th February we will be hosting a High School Diploma Information Event from 2pm to 3:30pm in the Black Box Theatre. This event is aimed at Grade 8 students and parents as your child will be embarking on the High School Diploma next academic year. In addition, we are opening the invitation to any parents of new students who have joined the High School this academic year. The aim of the meeting is to provide both parents and students with important information about the High School Diploma, including graduation requirements, the Programme of Study, course options, as well as outlining the process that students will follow to select courses. There will also be an opportunity to talk about courses and electives with a representative from each department.

I would advise the parents of Grade 8 students to attend this meeting along with your son/daughter. Course selection will be taking place during Semester 2 and parental involvement in this process is strongly recommended.

Please complete and return the slip below via your child's homeroom teacher to indicate if you will be attending or not, no later than Wednesday 21st February.

Yours Sincerely, Mr. Alan Crean Acting Assistant Head of Secondary

Street Child United Dear Parents and Guardians, The Hamilton International School and Street Child United extend a warm invitation to you for a premiere screening at our main theatre on Thursday, 29 February 2024, at 6:00 pm.

Street Child United (SCU) is the official charity partner of the International Schools Partnership (ISP) and is dedicated to advocating for the rights and protection of street-connected young people worldwide.

Join us for the Doha screening of 'I am Somebody,' an award-winning documentary directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy. The film follows the journey of six inspiring young individuals - Aya from Palestine, Drika and Jesmin from Brazil, Sahil from Pakistan, and Yasmin from Bangladesh - as they participate in the Street Child World Cup Qatar 2022.

Experience the joy, the challenges, and the magic of football as more than just a game. Watch the trailer here.

Please note that this event is exclusively for Hamilton parents and high school students only.

The Hamilton International School is honored to host this significant event, promising an evening of enlightenment, inspiration, and networking opportunities.

For more details, please refer to the enclosed invitation. Kindly RSVP to https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx? id=W_xNuWvEk0GcuFV2bW8PM9GYdV8I9mJJumToFh2bMVVUQ1RJUzdIRFhaUk5XQjc0T UlSQ0FJVFFRUS4u Your presence will undoubtedly enhance the success of this event, amplifying the voices and stories of street-connected youth on a global platform.

For more information, please contact Ms. Thouraya at telbouz@this.qa

Screen on The Green Event

We are pleased to announce that our Parent Council prepared a family event for our Hamilton Community. The purpose of this event is to raise money to fund future parent council-school projects.

Choose your place to sit on the football field, bring your blanket, bean bag, and cushions and enjoy a family-friendly movie on a large outdoor screen.

Movie: Leo Date: Friday 01 March 2023 Time: 06.00 pm – 8.00 pm (Gates open at 5:00 pm)

Additional Information: How much is the ticket for?

Tickets are sold for 20 QR each. Children under three years old can enter for free.

🎟️ Tickets can be purchased through Qtickets, simply scan the QR code on the attached poster https://events.q-tickets.com/qatar/eventdetails/5941079852/screen-on-the-green The Parent Council will sell tickets during drop-off and pick-up all next week.

Can I bring a friend or a neighbor?

Of course, you can! They will need to register with their Qatar ID at the reception.

Where do I park?

Please use Gate 3 to park and enter.

Can I bring with me snacks?

The parent council prepared a full food and drink menu to enjoy.

Popcorn, pizzas, and soft beverages will be available for purchase. You can bring your nut-free snacks, too, if you wish.

Can I bring chairs?

No, sorry, as chairs will damage the field.

Can I drop off my children and leave?

This is a family event, and we will not have any supervision. Parents and guardians must accompany their children and monitor their behavior. If behavior does not meet Hamilton’s expectations, then you will politely be asked to leave.

World Scholar’s Cup

Dear parents/guardians, The World Scholars Cup national rounds are in Qatar and will take place on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th March 2024. The World Scholars Cup is a competition in which students from around Qatar participate in teams of 3 across 4 different disciplines. The competition brings people together, challenges ideas, and helps students look at the bigger picture of learning through different subjects. The events which students will participate in can be read about here: https://www.scholarscup.org/events/ The competition aims to foster a love of learning by tackling serious global issues. Students can register for the World Scholars Cup by clicking on this link and following the registration process and payment: https://www.scholarscup.org/calendar/439-doha-round/ Entry to the World Scholars Cup is 300QR per person, which includes 2 meals on both days and all certificates and prizes. To find out more information about the World Scholars Cup, you can watch the video: https://youtu.be/43nNQ0p9jDY If students would like to participate, they will be doing so as an independent delegate or a team by filling form below. However, Hamilton will be supporting the event by sending a member of staff on each day of the program.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Sobia Sarwar at ssarwar@this.qa.