KGIS Weekly Newsletter 25th January 2024

THE KNOWLEDGE PARENT NEWSLETTER 25 JANUARY 2024

A Message from the Executive Principal Our Islamic Value of the Month for January is 'Trust'. We have been thinking about trust through our assemblies, in Homeroom time and via a whole range of school activities. We are a diverse school community where celebrating our differences, enhancing our understanding of others and building trust is central to the tolerant, inclusive and happy learning environment we have. Students place their trust in their teachers every single day as they take risks in their learning, build their confidence and explore new concepts. Trusting each other is key in achieving success and excellence, and we have seen many fantastic examples of trust this week.

Our Grade 4 and 5 students had the opportunity to go on a residential trip to Sifah Outdoor Education Centre to take part in a wide range of new and daring team activities! Trusting each other and their instructors allowed the students to try new things outside of their comfort zone as they pushed themselves to have a go at orienteering, swimming, team games and BMX biking.

Our Performing Arts Department demonstrated this week how confidence is built when trust is placed in teachers and peers with their success in our first ever LAMDA examinations. Congratulations to all the students from Grade 1 to Grade 12 who took exams in solo performance, musical theatre performance and devising drama. We are delighted to say that every single student achieved the highest possible grade of Distinction!

Thank you to all our parents who place their trust in us to guide, nurture, support and care for their children each day. We are truly honoured to have this opportunity, and are proud of every member of our school community.

Wishing you all a restful weekend.

Key Dates Please make a note of the following important dates:

Sunday 21 January-Thursday 7 February: Grade 10 IGCSE Mock Exams Wednesday 31 January: KG2 to Grade 1 Transition Parent Workshop (8:00am and 5:00pm) Wednesday 7 February: Launch of KGIS Mother & Toddler Group (1:30pm) Wednesday 7 February: Parent Consultation Evening Grades 10 to 12 Tuesday 13 February: Grade 8 IGCSE Options Information Evening (5:00pm) Monday 19 February & Tuesday 20 February: ‘Matilda’ performances (6:30pm) Wednesday 21 February: Grade 10 A Level and GED Options Information Evening (5:00pm) Wednesday 28 February: Parent Consultation Evening Grades 6 to 9 Sunday 3 March-Thursday 7 March: Book Week Tuesday 5 March: KGIS Community Fair Thursday 7 March: World Book Day

Please click here to access the Academic Calendar for this academic year

Learning Overviews Click on the links below to access the learning overview, home learning expectations and assessment dates for each grade: KG1 KG2 Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5

Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 Grade 9 Grade 10

KGIS Universal Islamic Value for January: Trust

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.

Success in LAMDA Drama Examinations!

We are thrilled to share with you a tremendous KGIS milestone! Our first ever cohort of students successfully completed their LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) examinations across a range of disciplines including solo performance, musical theatre and devising drama. We are very pleased to share the news that every single one of our talented students achieved the highest possible grade of Distinction in their respective examinations!

For those unfamiliar with LAMDA, it is an internationally renowned institution dedicated to the Performing Arts.

LAMDA offers a range of examinations that focus on developing skills in acting, spoken English, and communication. These exams not only cultivate creativity and expression but also enhance crucial life skills such as confidence, public speaking, and teamwork. Our students, from Grade 1 to Grade 12, participated in a variety of LAMDA activities, showcasing their diverse talents in musical theatre pieces, original monologues, and poems. It is wonderful to witness such a broad spectrum of creativity and expression from our students.

As a school, achieving approval as a recognised LAMDA examination centre is a testament to our commitment to providing a well-rounded education that nurtures the talents and passions of our students. This accomplishment wouldn't have been possible without the dedication of our exceptional Performing Arts Team, led by Ms. Katherine. This success is just the beginning of a journey filled with artistic exploration and growth.

A reminder that parents, students, families and friends can come along to see our talented students perform in our spectacular musical theatre production of Matilda on 19th and 20th February!

Nautilus Sohar Swim Cup: Leg 3 On Friday 20th January members of the KGIS Swim Squad attended a swim meet at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in conjunction with our partner Nautilus Swim Club. KGIS was represented by 13 swimmers, who all swam brilliantly and set numerous personal best times. As always, the KGIS Swim Squad returned triumphant with an amazing haul of 27 medals! Well done to everyone who took part and a special congratulations to Jahongir Marvarov who took home the prestigious Sohar Cup trophy, awarded to the top swimmer in his age category!

Extra-Curricular Activities Click here to access the Extra-Curricular Timetable for this term Medal positions: Amir Marvarov G4 (U9/U11 Boys) 100m Back Gold 100m Free Bronze 50m Back Gold 200m Back Gold 50m Free Bronze Jahongir Marvarov G9 (Boys 14-15) 400m Free Gold 50m Breast Gold 200m Breast Gold 200m IM Gold 400m IM Gold Muhammad Mbaye G4 (U9 Boys) 50m Breast Gold 50m Back Silver 200m IM Silver 100m Breast Silver Wathiq Mbaye G5 (Boys 10-11) 100m Back Gold 50m Back Gold 200m IM Bronze Anella Sharaf G7 (Girls 12-13) 100m Back Bronze Nizar Sharaf G9 (Boys 14-15) 50m Breast Bronze 100m Fly Bronze 200m IM Silver 50m Free Silver Lily Simpson G8 (Girls 12-13) 400m Free Silver 50m Breast Silver 200m Breast Silver 200m IM Bronze 200m Free Gold

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 Inspired Global Camps, a tailored option for every child Watch our YouTube video here!

Our summer camps give students the chance to stay at some of Europe's top boarding schools and take part in programmes delivered by world-class partners. It is an opportunity to travel, meet peers from other countries and get involved with inspiring activities, learning new skills that will stay with them forever. For more information, please click here.

KG News KG Update The Early Years Department had a tasty surprise this week at snack time. Our catering team, Azima Catering laid on some fresh hot toast, butter and jam so the children could practise some of the new skills they are learning in class to prepare a toasty treat! The children are learning how to spread the butter and jam and how to use the knife to cut the toast into bite size bits!

Simple activities like this might seem very easy to us as adults but these small tasks are very important steps in fostering independence, resilience and problem solving. Small children will always surprise us with just what they CAN do when they are given the tools, freedom and independence to achieve by themselves.

We look forward to hearing stories of plenty of meals being prepared at home by our little chefs in KG and we are sure there are some of you who will be delighted to have a morning off preparing breakfast over the weekend!

Our KG2 teachers will be hosting parents to read the story of The Gingerbread Man on Thursday 1st February, and story time will be followed by a light snack afterwards. All parents are encouraged to attend. Please keep an eye out for the details from Ms. Isobel and Ms. Alison on Class Dojo next week.

Primary News A Message from Mr. Ian, Head of Primary What another busy week we have had! Our Grade 4 and 5 students were very lucky to have attended an overnight trip to Sifah Outdoor Education Camp on Saturday and Sunday last week. Trips form a vital part of the school curriculum as they provide valuable educational experiences and contribute to the overall development of students in several ways. Here are three reasons why school trips are beneficial for students: Experiential Learning: School trips offer students the opportunity to learn outside the traditional classroom setting, providing hands-on, real-world experiences. This type of experiential learning can deepen their understanding of various subjects and concepts. For example, a trip to a science museum or historical site allows students to see and touch exhibits, making the learning process more engaging and memorable. Experiencing things first hand can enhance their retention of information and foster a deeper appreciation for the subject matter.

Social and Personal Development: School trips often involve group activities, teamwork, and interaction with peers and teachers in a different environment. This social aspect of school trips helps students develop important life skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Being in a new setting can also encourage students to step out of their comfort zones, promoting personal growth and self-confidence. Interacting with classmates and teachers in a more relaxed and informal setting can strengthen relationships, fostering a positive and supportive school community.

Cultural Exposure and Broadened Perspectives: School trips provide students with exposure to different cultures, environments, and perspectives. Whether visiting historical landmarks, museums, or natural wonders, students gain a broader understanding of the world around them. This exposure can contribute to the development of cultural awareness, tolerance, and empathy. By experiencing new places and meeting people from diverse backgrounds, students may develop a more openminded and inclusive worldview. This cultural exposure is particularly important in an increasingly interconnected and globalised society.

In summary, school trips offer students the chance to learn through direct experiences, contribute to their social and personal development, and expose them to diverse cultures and perspectives. These experiences can enrich their education and contribute to their overall growth as individuals.

Grades 1 and 2 In Grade 1 Arabic lessons this week, children were practising their Arabic sight words using practical and fun games. Children had to solve the clues and crack the codes in order to reveal the words and had fantastic fun doing so!

Primary News

Life skills all the way this week in Grade 2! From word processing to knowing their times tables … read all about it.

In ICT, Grade 2 have been investigating how computers can be more efficient than humans at completing tasks AND presenting work in a more attractive fashion. Using “2Write” the children have been speeding up their typing skills, changing the font, size and colour. Even adding a few pictures to enhance their work – awesome stuff!

Grades 3 to 5 “Mathematics is, in its own way the poetry of logical ideas - Albert Einstein” Teaching fractions is a crucial element in a child's mathematical education, laying the foundation for advanced mathematical concepts. Proficiency in fractions is essential for real-world applications, from cooking and construction to financial literacy. In this week’s lessons the class were focussing on how to convert improper fractions into a mixed number.

Primary News

“Learning through experiments is really fun because I feel like a real Scientist” - Said Al Saidi (Grade 4B) Grade 4 spent time this week exploring the various states of matter through observation and hands-on experimentation. Students witnessed the transitions between solids, liquids, and gases but also developed a profound understanding of the underlying principles governing these transformations. Observing matter change its form based on external factors such as temperature and pressure allows students to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. In this lesson they discussed the different states of matter they could see in a cup of fizzy cold drink and analysed their particle structure.

Primary News Our Grade 4 and 5 children were very lucky to spend time in Sifah over the weekend on our annual residential trip.

The children had a fantastic time on BMX bikes, with some children learning how to cycle a bike for the first time ever! They also engaged in activities such as orienteering, swimming (in the cold water!), and team games. The pictures speak for themselves as we can see the children had an absolute blast! There were some very tired boys and girls when they came back to school on Sunday afternoon, always a sign of a great time had!

Secondary News Message from Mr. James, Head of Secondary Our busy month of exams continues with our Grade 10 Mock and final Grade 12 GED exams still taking place this week. In the coming weeks, we also have Grade 6 to 9 Ministry of Education exams in Arabic, Islamic and Social Studies. The dates for these exams are as follows: Wednesday 31st January: Lessons 1 & 2, Social Studies Sunday 4th February: Lessons 1s& 2, Islamic Studies Wednesday 7th February: Lessons 1 & 2, Arabic Lessons will continue as normal after these exams and students will not have permission to leave school. In order to prepare for these exams, students should incorporate some of the following techniques into their study routine: Create a Schedule: Establish a consistent study routine, allocating dedicated time slots to different subjects or topics to maintain a balanced approach.

Active Learning Techniques: Engage with the material through methods like summarising, teaching the concepts to others, or solving problems actively to enhance comprehension.

Take Breaks: Incorporate short breaks during study sessions to prevent burnout and maintain concentration.

Review and Reflect: Regularly review and reflect on what you've learned to reinforce understanding, identify weak areas, and adjust your study strategies accordingly. Simple review techniques can have a significant impact on improving memory.

Finally, the Arabic Department has given out revision materials to students, as well as providing model answers on Google Classroom. I wish students all the best!

Grade 12 GED Students I would like to congratulate our Grade 12 GED students who successfully completed their final Semester One exams on Thursday 25th January. This is a very significant milestone for our Grade 12 students as they continue on their final journey in their Secondary education. Now that the Semester One exams are over, it is imperative that no time is lost as teachers begin to prepare students for Semester Two. With this in mind, we expect to see all Grade 12 GED students back in school on Sunday 28th January.

Grade 10 to 12 Parent Consultation Evening : Wednesday 7th February I would like to notify parents of the upcoming Grade 10 to 12 Parent Consultation Evening which will take place on Wednesday 7th February from 3:30pm to 7:00pm. Attending the Parent Consultation Evening is crucial as it provides an opportunity to gain valuable insights into your child's academic performance, strengths, and areas for improvement. It also allows teachers to share strategies for further enhancing your child's learning experience. By working together, we can ensure the best possible outcomes for your child's education. Please make every effort to attend the Parent Consultation Evening and engage in meaningful conversations with your child's teachers. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Secondary News Subject Spotlight: Science This week, our Grade 7 students embarked on an exciting journey into the world of Biology, embracing a hands-on approach that left an indelible mark on their learning experience. Guided by our passionate educators, these young scientists delved into the intricacies of anatomy by dissecting hearts. The hands-on dissection not only provided a tangible connection to the theoretical knowledge gained in class but also instilled a profound sense of awe and respect for the complexity of the human body. As scalpels delicately cut through tissues, students collaborated, questioned, and marvelled at the intricacies beneath their fingertips. This immersive learning experience sparks not only a deeper understanding of Biology but also cultivates crucial skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry.

In an exciting exploration of the fascinating world of Chemistry, our Grade 6 students are immersing themselves in a hands-on activity that brings the Acids and Alkali topic to life. Armed with red cabbage, these budding scientists are on a mission to create their own indicators.

The classroom was a hub of creativity and scientific inquiry as students meticulously extracted pigments from the cabbage, marvelling at the vibrant colours that hold the key to understanding pH levels. This engaging activity not only deepens their understanding of acids and alkalis but also hones their laboratory skills and experimental mindset.

The use of natural ingredients like red cabbage adds an eco-friendly and accessible dimension to their scientific journey. Through this immersive experience, our students not only grasp scientific concepts but also develop a genuine enthusiasm for Chemistry, encouraging an appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

Secondary News

Diving deep into the realms of advanced chemistry, our Grade 11 AS Chemistry students embarked on an intellectually stimulating week dedicated to the exploration of endothermic and exothermic reactions. Students meticulously investigated the absorbing world of endothermic reactions that absorb heat energy and the dynamic nature of exothermic reactions that release it. From observing temperature changes to analysing reaction rates, these aspiring chemists delved into the intricate details of these fundamental concepts. This immersive experience not only solidifies theoretical knowledge but also cultivates critical thinking and analytical skills essential for their academic journey and beyond. The excitement and intellectual curiosity displayed during this exploration underscore our commitment to fostering a deep passion for scientific inquiry in our students.

School Catering 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

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