KGIS Weekly Newsletter 25 April 2024

THE KNOWLEDGE

A Message from the Executive Principal

It has been lovely to be back in school for a full week this week following last week's online learning! We are now steaming ahead into the examination season and I would like to congratulate our Grade 5 and Grade 8 students for their exceptional conduct and commitment as they sat their Cambridge Checkpoint Tests in English, Mathematics and Science this week. Similarly, our IGCSE students completed their MFL speaking examinations in Spanish, French and German. I know that all students are working hard and will do their absolute best. Thank you to all the parents who are supporting their children through these important examinations IGCSE and A Level exams commence in full from 7th May, and we await the final dates for GED exams for Grade 12 from the Ministry of Education

We also look forward next week to the KGIS Community Fair that was rescheduled due to the rain earlier in the year! The Community Fair is taking place on Thursday 2nd May from 5:00pm-8:00pm and promises lots of fun for the entire family! Entry is OMR 1 for adults and children are free of charge. We hope that you will come along with your family and friends to enjoy the games, food stalls, bouncy castles and much more All proceeds will be donated to our local and international charitable causes as part of the 'KGIS Year of Giving'

Finally, next week sees the return of the KGIS Mother & Toddler Group on Wednesday at 1:30pm. This is a free of charge activity for mums and their children aged 6 months to 3 years to come into school and enjoy soft play, story time and fun activities led by our expert Early Years teachers The Mother & Toddler Group is open to all members of the community so please share details with family and friends who may be interested

Wishing you all a restful weekend!

Ms Liz Stanley Executive Principal

Key Dates

Please make a note of the following important dates:

Wednesday 1 May: KGIS Mother & Toddler Group (1:30pm)

Thursday 2 May: KG and Grade 1 Open Day

Thursday 2 May: KGIS Community Fair (5:00pm-8:00pm)

Wednesday 8 May: Grade 6 to 9 Parent Consultation Evening (3:30pm-7:00pm)

Wednesday 8 May-Thursday 9 May: KG1 and KG2 Splash Days

Monday 13 May-Thursday 16 May: Class and Student Photos

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

Grade 7

Grade 8

Grade 9

Grade 10

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.

Nautilus Sohar Spring Sprints 2024

On Friday 19th April a group of our KGIS swimmers travelled to Al Batinah International School in Sohar to attend the Nautilus Sohar Spring Sprints Swim Meet. All our swimmers performed very well, setting numerous personal best times and achieving podium positions in many races. Well done to everyone who took part and we are looking forward to seeing how well our swimmers will perform in the upcoming BSME Swimming Championships in Dubai!

Podium

positions:

*Amir Marvarov* (Boys 9-10)

100m freestyle – 1st place

50m backstroke – 1st place

100m backstroke – 2nd place

*Arad Hojjati* (Boys 8 and under)

50m backstroke - 3rd place

*Hamed Al Farsi* (Boys 8 and under)

50m breaststroke – 1st place

*Jahongir Marvarov* (Boys 13-14)

100m freestyle – 2nd place

100m backstroke – 1st place

100m IM – 1st place

*Lily Simpson* (Girls 13-14)

50m backstroke – 2nd place

100m breaststroke – 2nd place

100m IM – 3rd place

*Muhammad Mbaye* (Boys 9-10)

50m breaststroke – 3rd place

50m backstroke – 3rd place

*Talia Al Farsi* (Girls 8 and under)

50m breaststroke – 3rd place

50m backstroke – 3rd place

Extra-Curricular Activities

Click here to access the Extra-Curricular Timetable for this term

*Wathiq Mbaye* (Boys 10 and under)

200m IM – 3rd place

100m butterfly – 3rd place

100m breaststroke – 3rd place

100m backstroke – 1st place

*Yaseen Mbaye* (Boys 8 and under)

50m breaststroke – 2nd place

U11 Muscat Primary League Basketball Tournament

We are ecstatic to announce that the KGIS U11 Boys Basketball Team emerged victorious in the MPSL Tournament held this Monday! The boys put on a superb display of teamwork and determination, which led to them being unbeaten throughout the tournament.

A massive congratulations to Hamood, Turki, Sam, Adam, Abdullah, and Elyas. We are extremely proud!

KGIS Community Fair: Thursday 2nd May

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.

Autism Awareness Month

April is Autism Awareness Month, dedicated to increasing understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). During this time, various organisations and communities worldwide hold events, share information, and promote awareness about ASD, aiming to foster acceptance, support, and inclusion for individuals with autism. It's a crucial opportunity to educate people about the unique strengths and challenges of those on the spectrum and to advocate for greater access to resources, services, and opportunities for individuals with ASD.

We are very lucky at KGIS to have a number of children in our school with the superpower we call Autism! At KGIS we have inclusive policies, in addition to providing individualised accommodations, fostering peer understanding, and collaborating with parents and professionals to create a supportive learning environment We have a sensory room available for use by all of our students, including those with ASD.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive the world and interact with others. It's called a 'spectrum' because it encompasses a wide range of strengths and challenges that vary from person to person

For some children, autism might mean they have difficulty with social skills, such as making eye contact, understanding social cues, or engaging in conversation. They may also have special interests or hobbies that they're deeply passionate about.

Sensory sensitivities are also common in individuals with autism. This means certain sounds, textures, or lights might be overwhelming or uncomfortable for them They might seek out certain sensory experiences, like spinning objects or rocking back and forth, as a way to self-regulate.

It's important to understand that autism isn't something that can be 'cured' or 'fixed.' Instead, it's a part of who your child is, and with the right support and understanding, they can thrive and reach their full potential.

As a parent, there are many things you can do to support your child with autism. This might include creating a predictable routine, providing clear instructions, and offering plenty of opportunities for sensory breaks. It's also important to celebrate your child's strengths and interests, and to advocate for their needs both at home and at school.

Remember, every child with autism is unique, and what works for one child may not work for another. By embracing your child for who they are and providing them with love, understanding, and support, you can help them flourish and lead a fulfilling life.

KG Update

On a day to day basis in KG we emphasise the importance of independence skills with our youngest learners. Learning self-help and independence skills in early childhood is crucial for a child's development and future success. These skills, such as eating independently and tidying up after oneself, not only promote self-reliance but also instil a sense of responsibility. When children learn to feed themselves or tidy their toys, they gain confidence in their abilities and develop a sense of accomplishment. Moreover, mastering these skills fosters a positive self-image and promotes child agency By encouraging and supporting these skills early on, parents play a vital role in nurturing their child's independence and preparing them for future challenges. Over the course of the year, our KG children have become increasingly independent and we are so proud of each and every one of them!

A Message from Mr. Ian, Head of Primary

Primary News

We are now firmly stuck into Term 3 with lots going in classes. Our Grade 5 have been working very hard over the past few weeks on their Cambridge Checkpoint Exams and I am sure they are delighted to have them behind them now! Well done to all who took part and I know that you will have done yourselves, your families and the school proud!

As we move into the summer weather, it is very important that children come to school appropriately equipped for the heat. All children have access to water dispensers in the classrooms and canteen but it is doubly important that they bring their own water bottles into school and that the water bottles have their name and class clearly labelled on them. Children are asked to ensure that they do not go outside to play without bringing their water bottles outside with them.

Added to this, I ask that children bring a hat to protect their heads and eyes during playtime We have a small stock of KGIS branded hats still left in our shop priced at only OMR 5 which offer great protection for children's eyes, ears and necks.

Finally, our lost and found box inside the student entrance is very full of jumpers and cardigans of all sizes. Parents are welcome to come in to try and locate any missing items. Please also take the time to label school uniforms clearly with the children’s full name and their grade!

Thanks as always for your ongoing support

Grades 1 & 2

Grade 1 children have been very busy this week across all subjects. In Maths, the children have been learning about odd and even numbers. In English, the children have started tasks based on the book ‘Where the Wild Things Are.’ They have created a story map to help them in their writing about the book. In Science, the children have been looking at things that are living and non-living They went on a walk around the school where they pointed out different things to their partner and stated whether it was living or non-living.

Primary News

Grade 2 have also had a busy week with Ms. Denise and Ms. Majda. Movement breaks are crucial for young learners as they facilitate physical activity, which is integral for their overall health and well-being Incorporating breaks allows children to release pent-up energy, refocus their attention, and enhance their cognitive functions. Movement breaks not only promote better concentration and productivity but also foster improved mood and behaviour in the classroom.

In Arabic lessons with Ms. Majda the children have been practising reading comprehension. This is an important skill in both Arabic and English lessons and the skills are identical no matter what the language!

In Drama with Mr. Alec the children have been getting ready for our performance in May. Learning songs, practising pitch and creating our own masks to wear during the performance Details of the performance are top secret according to Mr. Alec but we got a sneak peek this week!

Finally the children have been very busy sorting money, making totals for different amounts using different coins, most coins and least amount of coins for the same total. They spent time investigating and solving worded problems related to money.

Grades 3 to 5

Grade 4 students learnt how to write Arabic numbers using the letters of the Arabic alphabet and learnt about the correct rules for grammar. They applied their new knowledge through some games, challenges and activities, including the 'Game of Roses'. This helps the students to learn with enthusiasm and enjoyment and to continue to develop a natural love for the Arabic language.

In Social Studies, Grade 4 students learned about the markets in the Sultanate of Oman They learned the difference between traditional markets and modern markets, the things they can buy from the traditional market, and the things they can buy from the modern market. They also learned about the efforts made by the government in the Sultanate of Oman to preserve traditional markets. Each of them felt proud of their country and its heritage!

Message from Mr. James, Head of Secondary

Secondary News

It has been great to have a full week back at school and return to a sense of normalcy. And what another busy week it was for everyone at KGIS! I would first like to begin by saying congratulations to all our Grade 8 students for successfully completing their first ever Cambridge Checkpoint exams I was extremely impressed by the level of maturity and independence with which they approach these exams. Although there is a long wait until the results come, all students can be suitably proud of themselves.

Earth Day was also celebrated this week at KGIS. Science students have been immersing themselves in activities which have raised the profile of an increasingly important day on our calendar. By immersing themselves in Earth Day activities, students have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of environmental issues and explore practical solutions to address them Moreover, celebrating Earth Day serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between humans and the environment, highlighting the impact of individual and collective actions on the health of our planet. By integrating Earth Day celebrations into the school curriculum, KGIS not only educates students about environmental stewardship but also instils values of empathy, responsibility, and global citizenship. This holistic approach to education equips students with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to create a more sustainable and equitable world for future generations

Next week, I am glad to inform you that we will hold the KGIS Robotics Week. Students will have the opportunity to get involved with Lego Robotics and similar activities in their IT lessons. The highlight of the week will be the workshop on Sunday led by the award-winning and Master Lego Instructor, Mr. Vahid Jourabchi. Students will get expert advice on how to programme their own robots His expertise and guidance will empower students to unleash their creativity and transform their ideas into functioning robots. By receiving personalised instruction and feedback from a renowned expert, students will gain invaluable insights and inspiration to take their robotics projects to the next level.

Finally, as I have mentioned in recent editions, the final IGCSE and International A-Level examinations are almost upon us. I wish to confirm that there will be no study leave in the lead up to the first exam, which is on 7th May for IAL candidates and 10th May for IGCSE candidates. All students are expected to be present in school until these days. Students should continue attending school until the start of their exams to maximise their learning potential, especially with access to subject specialists. Interacting with our teachers allows students to deepen their understanding of complex topics, clarify doubts, and receive personalised guidance tailored to their needs. The expertise and insights shared by subject specialists can significantly enhance students' academic performance and confidence Teacher-led marking of past papers is highly productive as it provides students with expert feedback, clarifies misconceptions, and helps refine exam techniques. By leveraging the expertise of teachers in deciphering exam papers, students can enhance their exam performance and boost their final grades.

Subject Spotlight: Science

Secondary News

Earth Day has been the main focus for Grade 6 students as they came with different items they produced to showcase in front of class The aim was to raise awareness of Earth Day and promote a more sustainable mindset amongst us all. By showcasing items they produced, they're not only raising awareness of Earth Day but also demonstrating their creativity and commitment to sustainability This hands-on approach not only educates them about environmental issues but also empowers them to become advocates for positive change in their communities.

Other Key Stage 3 students have been learning about chromatography and using their skills and knowledge to separate and identify substances Role play then helped consolidate their understanding and develop their oracy skills as forensic scientists to solve a crime.

Exploring the tensile strength of plant tissues in Biology is a fascinating endeavour for Grade 11 students. This investigation explores the structural properties of plants, offering insights into their resilience and adaptability. By conducting experiments to measure tensile strength, students gain valuable hands-on experience in scientific inquiry, data collection, and analysis.

Understanding the tensile strength of plant tissues is crucial not only for biological research but also for various real-world applications, such as agriculture, engineering, and material science. Students learn how different factors, such as plant species, growth conditions, and environmental factors, can influence tensile strength, providing them with a holistic perspective on plant biology.

Grade 12 students delved into the rate of respiration in germinating seeds embarking on an exploration of biological processes. This investigation offers a window into the dynamic nature of life, as students observe first-hand how seeds transform into seedlings through cellular respiration By measuring the rate of respiration, students gain insight into the metabolic activity of germinating seeds and the energy requirements for growth and development. hers in deciphering exam papers, students can enhance their exam performance and boost their final grades

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