THE KNOWLEDGE
A Message from the Executive Principal
This week we welcomed Stu Williamson photographers to KGIS to photograph students, teachers and classes As we approach the end of the academic year, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the importance of creating lasting memories within our school community. School is not only a place of learning but also a space where lifelong friendships are forged, personal growth is nurtured, and unforgettable experiences are made.
At the heart of lasting memories are the relationships we build Getting to know classmates, teachers, and school staff significantly enriches your child's school experience Acts of kindness, words of encouragement, and shared experiences contribute to a positive school environment where everyone feels valued and supported. These relationships often extend beyond our school years, becoming some of the most cherished connections in our lives.
In today’s digital age, we have countless ways to capture our memories School and class photos can be a wonderful way to preserve these moments In years to come they help us to celebrate and remember the different people who form the tapestry of our school life. I still have all my school photos and often enjoy looking back on them and reminiscing! The memories we create at school are invaluable. They shape our identities, influence our future, and provide a foundation of shared experiences that bind us together as a community.
All students have been given a card to bring home with a unique access code that allows you to look at their photos and order any that you would like to keep Please note that it can take 2 to 3 weeks for the photos to be available online Please ensure that you check their bag for the code!
Thank you for being part of this journey!
P A R E N T N E W S L E T T E R 1 6 M A Y 2 0 2 4
Key Dates
Please make a note of the following important dates:
Thursday 23 May: Grade 12 Graduation Ceremony
Sunday 26 May: 'KGIS Has Talent' competition
Sunday 26 May: LAMDA Drama Performance Evening
Sunday 2 June-Monday 3 June: KG1 and KG2 Parent Consultation Meetings
Tuesday 4 June: KG2 Graduation Ceremony
Tuesday 4 June: Grade 5 Graduation Ceremony
Tuesday 4 June: KGIS Student Awards Ceremony
Thursday 13 June: Last day of Term 3
Please click here to access the Academic Calendar for this academic year
Clickonthelinksbelowtoaccessthelearningoverview,homelearningexpectationsand assessmentdatesforeachgrade:
Grade 6 (exams)
KG2
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Grade 7 (exams)
Grade 8 (exams)
Grade 9 (exams)
Grade 10 (IGCSE exams)
KG1
Learning Overviews
KGISUniversalIslamicValueforMay: Equality
Extra-Curricular Activities
Click here to access the Extra-Curricular Timetable for this term
Extra-Curricular Activities
A reminder that our programme of extra-curricular activities has now started for all students. We have a huge variety of activities on offer before school, at lunch times and after school. There really is something for everyone! All activities are free of charge and students are encouraged to join as many as possible in order to broaden their skills. Please click on the link above to see the timetable of activities.
BSME Swimming Championships
The KGIS Swim Squad took part in a major swimming competition at the Hamdan Sports Complex Olympic pool in Dubai on Thursday 9th May. The competition itself was organised by British Schools in the Middle East (BSME) and KGIS was the only school representing Oman
The competition was a huge spectacle with 880 swimmers from 37 countries across the Gulf region; this was the pinnacle of the swimming season! Our team of ten did us all proud, congratulations to them all:
Hamed Al Farsi (Grade 3)
Shihab Al Ismaily (Grade 9)
Amir Marvarov (Grade 4)
Jahongir Marvarov (Grade 9)
Muhammad Mbaye (Grade 4)
Wathiq Mbaye (Grade 5)
Anella Sharaf (Grade 7)
Nizar Sharaf (Grade 9)
Lily Simpson (Grade 8)
Olivia Simpson (Grade 9)
We also enjoyed some remarkable successes, with our swimmers coming home with medals and ribbons for their efforts Some of the notable achievements include:
Jahongir Marvarov: 2nd 200m Freestyle, 2nd 200m IM, 5th 100m Breaststroke
Nizar Sharaf: 2nd 50m Butterfly, 2nd 100m Butterfly, 5th 50m Freestyle, 6th 200m IM
Muhammad Mbaye: 6th 100m Breaststroke
Wathiq Mbaye: 6th 200m Freestyle
Well done to our dedicated swimmers who consistently train every day of the week throughout the year - their hard work has paid off! Thank you also to the supportive parents who helped make it all happen. We look forward to building on this success in the future!
Extra-Curricular Activities
Click here to access the Extra-Curricular Timetable for this term
Extra-Curricular Activities
Click here to access the Extra-Curricular Timetable for this term
Inspired Forte Music Programme
We are very excited to remind parents of this unique opportunity available for students who learn a musical instrument! This opportunity is only available to students in Inspired schools, and offers a series of private instrument lessons with a tutor from the Royal College of Music in London - the world’s number one music conservatory.
In partnership with The Royal College of Music in London, Forte has launched the Pathways to Performance programme exclusively for Inspired students. The programme offers a package of private lessons with otherwise inaccessible top music tutors, verified by The Royal College of Music, the world’s #1 ranked music conservatory. Every private tutor currently teaches at or has received music education training at The Royal College of Music, so they are not just excellent Royal College of Music musicians, but they have also been trained by the best in music teaching practice.
The programme caters to students at senior school level who desire to achieve advanced levels in their instrumental abilities and to those preparing for auditions or public performances. Upon completion, students will have the chance to get certificates of attendance issued from The Royal College of Music, further reflecting their hard work.
Further information can be found: https://fortelessons.com/inspired . The following video also offers more insight into the programme: Click here for video
Extra-Curricular Activities
Click here to access the Extra-Curricular Timetable for this term
Inspired Summer Camps
Secure your spot at one of the Inspired Global Camps this summer!
Watch our YouTube video here!
As we approach the summer months, we wanted to inform you that some limited spaces are left in our phenomenal global summer camps, which are experiencing high demand. Last year, we had amazing feedback from Inspired families, who decided to enrol their children, so we wanted to offer the remaining spaces to you first!
If you are keen for your child to join this July or August, we encourage you to secure your child's spot as soon as possible.
Whether your child thrives in academic pursuits, enjoys sports, or loves expressing themselves through the arts, we have something for everyone.
Even though spaces are limited, we continue to offer our exclusive Inspired 10% discount, applicable to each camp booking This is an opportunity not to be missed!
To secure your child's place simply visit our website or contact use the contact form to ask a question directly. We can't wait to welcome your child to a summer full of fun, learning, and unforgettable memories.
KG Update
KG News
As we approach the end of a very busy year, we are focussing on the transition process for KG1 and KG2 children. The KG2 children visited the Grade 1 classrooms this week and last. They had a wonderful time meeting some of the Grade 1 teachers, listened to a story and explored the classrooms. KG1 children will also start their transitions to KG2 next week!
Smooth transitions, at different stages of education ensure that children feel safe, secure, and supported These experiences not only foster children’s social and emotional development but also promote positive relationships with peers and adults. By prioritising effective transitions, we empower children to thrive in new environments, embrace challenges, and build resilience from an early age.
A Message from Mr. Ian, Head of Primary
Primary News
As you are aware, we have had Stu Williamson Photographers in the school this week taking photos of your children Please make sure to check your child’s bag for their code so that you can access the photos online and purchase them should you wish.
As we come to the end of the year, it is school trip season! School trips are not just a treat for children as a reward for hard work, they also are very beneficial to your child’s holistic education as outlined below:
Hands-on Learning: School trips provide children with opportunities for experiential learning outside the classroom. They can see, touch, hear, and sometimes even taste the subjects they are studying, which helps to reinforce academic concepts and make learning more engaging and memorable.
Broadening Horizons: School trips expose children to new environments, cultures, and experiences that they may not encounter in their daily lives. This exposure helps to broaden their perspectives, cultivate empathy and understanding, and develop respect for diversity
Social and Emotional Development: School trips encourage children to interact with their peers, teachers, and other adults in different settings. They learn important social skills such as cooperation, communication, and teamwork, as well as how to navigate unfamiliar situations and handle challenges independently.
Building Confidence: School trips provide children with opportunities to step out of their comfort zones and try new things. Whether it's speaking to a tour guide, trying a new activity, or navigating public transportation, overcoming small challenges during a school trip can boost children's self-esteem and confidence.
Making Connections to the Curriculum: School trips are often carefully planned to align with the curriculum, allowing children to see real-world applications of what they are learning in the classroom. For example, a trip to a museum or historical site can bring history lessons to life, while a visit to a farm can enhance Science and Geography lessons.
Fostering a Love for Learning: School trips spark children's curiosity and excitement about learning by making subjects come alive in meaningful ways. When children have positive experiences during school trips, they are more likely to develop a lifelong love for learning and exploration.
Creating Lasting Memories: School trips create lasting memories that children cherish for years to come. These shared experiences with classmates and teachers often become highlights of their primary school years, fostering a sense of belonging and community within the school
Overall, school trips play a vital role in the holistic development of primary children by providing them with valuable learning experiences, fostering social and emotional growth, and igniting their passion for learning. If your child has not gone on their trip yet, please be aware there are more planned for the month of June. Please check with your child’s teacher for more information.
Grades 1 & 2
Grade 1 have been learning about arrays and sorting items into groups. In Drama, the children have been working on their communication skills by playing a game called ‘What’s up?’ The children have to try and get the child with the card on their head to guess the animal, job or action shown without using the word This helps to develop their vocabulary and increase their confidence talking in sentences using English.
Primary News
Grade 2 have been studying the story of the “Seller of Dreams” in their Arabic lessons. After learning about the story they used their imaginations to act out the story and role play as the characters in the story. This allowed them to further their understanding of the story and to make real life connections to the characters in the story.
Grades 3 to 5
Primary News
In Science, Grade 3 have been investigating the relationship between light and shadow. They tested to see if the distance of light will have an impact on the size of their shadows
In English this week, we have recapped informal letters Grade 3 have tried to remember and include all the necessary features to write an appropriate informal letter. This has been a real challenge for the children and links to recent work on how to write an email in ICT lessons.
In Maths this week, Grade 3 have been exploring equivalent fractions and are learning to associate fractions that give equal amounts. Test your child’s knowledge out when visiting the supermarket or a restaurant for real world examples!
Grade 4 students have been working hard lately on Arabic grammar. They have spent a lot of time in classes learning about singular and plural words and how to apply them correctly. Lessons were carried out using online games as well as paired and group activities. Make sure to test your child at home to check how well they understand!
Message from Mr. James, Head of Secondary
Secondary News
IWe have had a week of firsts at KGIS this past week. It was with great pride that we competed in our first ever BSME Swimming Gala in Dubai. Our students pitted their skills against hundreds of students from schools across the Middle East Qualifying for the event was an achievement in itself but our students did more than that, coming home with three medals and a number of ribbons! A huge congratulations to all who participated and a special thank you to Ms. Dagmara and the PE Team for preparing our swimmers so well.
We also held the first ever modular IGCSE exams in History and Geography for Grade 9 students. KGIS is part of a pilot programme in partnership with Edexcel. Working closely with an established exam board such as Edexcel not only ensures that we remain at the forefront of educational changes but also that we are giving our students the best possible opportunity to succeed in their final exams The modular structure of these exams offers numerous benefits, including enhanced learning outcomes, personalised assessment, and greater flexibility in curriculum delivery. I am beyond proud of all our Grade 9 students who bravely sat their first full IGCSE exam this week.
Another exciting event that took place this week was our Class Photos. It was wonderful to see all our students in their best uniform looking ever so smart These class photos serve as timeless mementos, highlighting the bonds forged and the accomplishments achieved throughout students’ journey together at KGIS. Your child received a Password Card, which has a unique code for your child on it. The card contains instructions on how to access your child’s photos. When creating an account, please be advised to only use one email address, and not to create multiple accounts. Once you have created an account and added your child’s unique code, you will not need the unique code again, as your child will be linked to your account Please note that it can take 2-3 weeks from the end of photo week to have access to the photos as the team at Stu Schools needs to work their magic to create the class photos.
Finally, I would like to make a final reminder about the end of year internal Grades 6 to 11 end of year exams that will take place next week The schedule has now been sent out to parents and posted to students’ Google Classrooms. If you have any questions regarding specific subjects, please contact the subject teacher. As Mr. Tom has previously explained, students may go home after their exam is finished, although we recommend that students stay in school to complete their revision. As such, students who do remain in school will be supervised and have the opportunity to revise with their subject teachers. At this point, it is important to note that these exams are just one aspect of your child’s learning experience and journey. Grades will not define students or their future. Nonetheless, I would like to wish all students the very best of luck as they prepare for these assessments. If you have any general queries, please feel free to contact Mr James - james o@kgis-edu com or Mr Tom - tom b@kgis-edu com
Subject Spotlight: English
Secondary News
Grade 9 students are in the final stages of preparation for their IGCSE end of year exams, with a particular focus on English language skills. Delving into anthologies filled with diverse literary works, students have been dissecting poems and unravelling the complexities of short story extracts, honing their critical analysis skills A significant challenge lies in analysing unseen non-fiction articles and comparing them to specified pieces from their anthology, a task that demands both comprehension and analytical finesse. To ensure thorough preparation, students have immersed themselves in past-paper questions, familiarising themselves with exam formats and expectations. They have also been refining their transactional writing skills, mastering the craft of persuasive speeches and articles. As the exams draw near, the English Department has been offering support and encouragement to our Grade 9 classes
In an ongoing effort to foster a deeper appreciation for literature and enhance reading comprehension skills among students, the English Department has introduced a novel approach this year: whole-class fast-paced reading. This innovative strategy, based on the research findings of English scholars Westbrook, Sutherland, Oakhill, and Sullivan, aims to accelerate students' comprehension through collective engagement with texts The rationale behind the strategy is grounded in empirical evidence suggesting that when students read the same novel together as a class at a brisk pace, or when they listen to the teacher read at a fast pace, their reading comprehension improves rapidly. Drawing inspiration from this research, the English Department has implemented this method across Grades 6, 7, and 8, with promising results. This year's STAR Reading Assessment results have already revealed a steady improvement in student comprehension skills across the board. Central to the success of this initiative are the vibrant class discussions that ensue from the collective reading experience. By immersing themselves in novels such as 'Holes' by Louis Sachar and 'Chinese Cinderella' by Adeline Yen Mah, students are not only expanding their literary horizons but also delving into rich narratives that provoke thought and reflection.
Fostering strong literacy skills is paramount to academic success and lifelong learning. Recognising the importance of reading proficiency, the English Department has begun a Reading Support ECA aimed at bolstering the reading skills of students This dedicated programme offers students the opportunity to receive targeted support for comprehension skills, with a particular focus on inference and deduction. Through engaging activities and personalised guidance, participants attend weekly sessions designed to enhance their ability to extract meaning from texts, make connections, and draw conclusions. As the end of the academic year approaches, the Reading Support ECA has shifted its focus towards exam preparation. This week, students have been immersed in rigorous exercises geared towards equipping them with the necessary tools to excel in their end of year exams Central to this preparation has been a meticulous examination of key vocabulary and command words commonly found in exam questions. As the culmination of their hard work draws near, students involved in the Reading Support ECA should take pride in their dedication and progress. Their commitment to self-improvement and academic excellence serves as a testament to their determination and resilience.
Secondary News
We are proud to partner with Azima Catering to offer healthy, nutritious meals for all students. Please contact Ms. Amira at admissions@kgis-edu.com for any queries or requests relating to catering.
Click here to see this week's menu
School Catering Contact the School
For General Enquiries please contact the School Reception:
E: reception@kgis-edu.com T: 2407 3500 / 2407 3501
For academic or pastoral concerns and questions, please contact your child's Homeroom Teacher in the first instance via email
Uniform Shop
The Uniform Shop is situated at the Main Reception and is open Sunday to Thursday from 8:00am-3:30pm
Finance Office
The Finance Office is situated at the Main Reception and is open Sunday to Thursday from 8:00am-3:30pm
E: finance@kgis-edu.com T: 2407 3517
Admissions
The Admissions Office is open Sunday to Thursday from 8:00am-4:00pm
To see school fees and Admissions information please click here
E: admissions@kgis-edu com T: 2407 3504 www.kgis.edu.om