Issuu

CONTENTS INSIDE THE ISSUE

Message from the Head of First School

Message from the Head of Junior School

Message from the Principal

32 34-58 44

76 78 80-87

World Book Day

Junior School Libraries

House Art Junior School

KG 2 to Grade1

Grade 2 Bus Trip

Grade 1 Trip to

Peter Pan The Musical

Grade 3

104106108-115 116 118 Trip to the UAQ Marine Club

Junior School Islamic Ramadan

PYP Exhibition 2021 - 2022

Grade 5

128

132

130

Message from the Vice Principal Pastoral Care

Mad Science Grade 4 & 5

Message from the Vice Principal Director of Studies

Message from the Vice Principal Curriculum

152158162166168170 BIG FOUR

Graduation

Alumni

English

Mathematics

Science

184186188190184 194 Bugsy Malone

The Roaring 20s

Senior School Music

Economics

MYP Personal Projects

Services As Action

206210 212 214 216 218 Duke of Edinbrugh Award

Charity

Emirati Committee

Iftar Event

International Picnic

Senior School Library

11 12-19 Message from the Head of Early Years

30 KG 1 Art Exhibition

First School Pre KG to Grade 1

Message from the Deputy Head Junior School

64 66-74 Message from the Deputy Head Junior School

Grade 2

90 92-99 100

102

122124

126

134138142 146

122

A Book Review of Fish in a Tree

Grade 4

120

Junior School Science

Junio School Mathematics Society

Hafeet House

Jais House

Javi House

Grade 4 Foundersʼ Day Production 2022

Student Council

Aquathlon

Message from the Assistant Principal, Head of Sixth Form

Yibir House

172174 176 178 180 182 Modern Foreign Language

The Arabic Department this year

The Geography Department

ECA & Trips

Astronomy Club

Eco Committee

History Day

Grade 10 Visual Arts

Design

196198200202204205 Literary Society

Model Making Club

220222228234236 New Students

Founderʼs Day

National Day

The great Plague and the case of the Reducing regulations

House Art

Medical Society

238-240 House Netball & Physical Heath

Message from the Principal “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” Maya Angelou This past year has been one of many successes. My Founder’s Day speech looked at what success means, and we have seen many examples of success from our community as we have strived for a ‘return to normal’. The year began with uncertainty, as we all hoped for an end to the pandemic. Term 1 saw many extracurricular activities returning and an opportunity for sports fixtures against other schools. Just as we began to see a flourishing community once more, a new challenge appeared after the holidays and a return to restrictions saw us lose a little impetus in our quest for a full and vibrant NLCS ethos. As always, the students and staff coped well and made the most of the situation. After the mid-term break in Term 2, the reinvigoration of House competitions and our extracurricular programme took a positive turn and we welcomed parents back into the school for a number of drama, musical and sports events. We have been successful in traversing through these ups and downs and our ability to maintain our ethos, despite the challenges, has been a measure of our success as a community. In Term 3 we were visited by our International Team from our home school in London. It was wonderful to be able to host them once again, after a series of online monitoring visits during the restrictions. These visits are a vital process for our family of schools and ensure we are maintaining the high standards and expectations founded in our UK school. The feedback was outstanding and confirmed that all of our students are receiving an exceptional education. The NLCS Dubai community has been successful as it has moved from challenge to challenge, without losing sight of our core values and our enthusiasm for life. Enjoy this wonderful collection of all our successes as a school, have a restful and happy break and I look forward to seeing you at the start of the new year.

James Monaghan Principal NLCS Dubai

Message from the Head of Junior School It is with a heavy heart that I write my final Yearbook entry. It has been five years since I started as Head of Junior at NLCS Dubai and they have been five extraordinary years, filled with so many happy times and much to reflect upon and remember. I have cherished the opportunity of being a founding member of the Leadership Team and it has been a pleasure to see the Junior School grow and flourish since 2017. We opened with 13 classes and 150 students in the Junior School and now we have 40 classes and over 700 students. My key message to staff in our first year was to be flexible and adaptable and we have certainly all had to do that as we have faced hurdles along the way, including the pandemic, which presented all of us with a myriad of challenges. Looking back over the entries in previous yearbooks, so much has been achieved by our students and they have certainly had many rich experiences both in and out of the classroom. I have been very fortunate to work with some wonderful people - talented students, dedicated staff and supportive parents. Not a day goes by when I do not get to see the abilities, skills and enthusiasm of our students in some way or another. It has been a pleasure seeing the students grow and develop, achieving their potential, realising their goals and ambitions, and above all, becoming responsible global citizens. I will miss working with such an incredible team of staff. Thank you to the staff of the school who are outstanding in so many ways; who have made the school what it is today - a place where children feel happy and safe and encouraged to be the best they can be in every way. NLCS has become very dear to my heart and I will leave with fond memories of staff, students and parents. I would like to thank you for your continued support of the school. I have enjoyed every minute of my time here and, what is more, I have much to be grateful for, to the staff, to the students, and to you, the NLCS community, past and present. I am proud of all that has been achieved and have the utmost confidence that the school will continue to thrive. It has been my privilege to lead the Junior School and I will miss you all. How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. (A. A. Milne)

Emma Navin Head of Junior School NLCS Dubai

Message from the Head of First School As my second academic year at NLCS Dubai draws to a close, there are so many moments that have been truly memorable and showcase what being part of the NLCS family means. This year was my first experience of a full Founder’s Day, with the KG2 students performing to parents to highlight the achievements of past Headmistresses, followed by the formal procession in the Atrium. I felt great pride in seeing our First School students rise to the importance of the occasion, all dressed smartly in yellow and carrying their handmade daffodils with maturity. Performances have been plentiful this year, with Pre-KG and KG1 generating many smiles with their Winter Productions and exhibitions. Singing, dancing and playing percussion instruments in front of an audience, when so young, certainly takes confidence. Our Grade 1 students have also exuded confidence with their end of year play, along with their class assemblies, speaking with clarity and passion. Being able to spend time with the students in the classroom is always a pleasure. Our Pre-KG students have certainly made the most of the engaging areas both inside and outside to develop their vocabulary and have shown that they can collaborate to solve problems as well as sustain growing periods of concentration to complete a task. KG1 students have had many firsthand experiences to help them generate ideas for writing, with the Posh Paws and Green Planet visits being very memorable for both students and staff! KG2 and Grade 1 have enjoyed their Units of Inquiry, demonstrating a whole host of learner attributes on a daily basis. But what stands out the most, is our students’ international mindedness – this has gone beyond their curriculum studies and has been demonstrated on a regular basis as existing students have warmly welcomed new members to their class over the course of the year and used their knowledge of languages beyond English to communicate with each other and shows how pastoral care is not only between staff and students, but students themselves. A final note is to say how much I have enjoyed being part of the ECA enrichment programme. It has given our First School students the opportunity to try themselves out with a whole host of activities. I never realised so many of our students (and teachers) were strong chess players nor that we had so many talented artists and dancers! I look forward to seeing these newfound talents and passions develop over the years that the students spend with us at NLCS Dubai.

Rebecca Fernandes Head of First School NLCS Dubai

Message from the Head of Early Years In September 2022, I swung the door open, To welcome all of you, Overwhelmed by a familiar emotion, I planned to make dreams come true. For Pre-KG, I wished for transition, So, each individual came to fruition, Moving from toddler to preschooler, Developing character, becoming an achiever, Learning what is wrong and right, Persevering with all our might, Overcoming what made us fear, Celebrating all with a cheer. For KG1, I hoped for growth, In academics and social skills both, See, this is the year where you learn to read, And get a better grasp of what you need, You explore emotion, And discover responding without commotion, You cement friendships, As you begin to appreciate relationships. Now it’s July, and as I close the doors, I recall the times of being on all fours, Playing alongside you all, Listening and watching in awe. We have Camels who present, Leopards that debate, Wolves who implement, Flamingoes that create Whilst the Kestrels invent. We have Owlets that explore, Peacocks that question, And Dolphins with outstanding rapport. You may not feel as though dreams have come true, But believe in the process, 1+1 always equals two.

Nathalie Allen Head of Early Years NLCS Dubai

PEACOCKS Pre KG

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mrs. Harris A poem for the perfect Peacocks, But where should I begin? My little class of superstars, Full of laughs and beautiful grins. We’ve got Advika, Anna and Elsa, Super-smart and oh-so bright. Muhammad, Ariana and Bia, My outstanding rays of light. Tiba and Myrah are best friends through and through, Faith and Rakan always make me laugh and for that, I say thank you. Mia, Fatimah and Maryam already fabulous aged four, Ethan knows everything on the topic of dinosaurs. Krish and Annabelle love to make a splash, Saalim and Maxim love superheroes - boom, pow, crash Lara and Arianna are very kind and love to play, My little class of peacocks – simply perfect in every way. Not forgetting, Miss Victoria, thank you very much, Your support has been invaluable, and I’d like to say as such I want to say I’ll miss you a lot When we go our separate ways. You’ve all been so wonderful and brilliant And made me smile every single day. All of you keep shining your wonderful little lights, You’ve made the world of Mrs. Harris so happy, fun and bright.

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Owlets Pre KG

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Allen Miss Allen might feel new to you, My weeks as your teacher have been few, But to me, you are all so familiar, I know just how you are different, And what makes you similar. You see, I met you all individually, I was as excited as could be, As you came to see NLCS, I was the person to say ‘Yes!’ I watched you enter in September, Seeing all the faces that I remember, Little smiles, wide eyes, shiny shoes, All of you ready for a year in blue. Tiana shared her stories of adventure, Saif showed promise as an inventor, Eli wowed me with his explanations, As Mariam worked on her creations, Siella knew I loved her writing, Noah’s role-play was exciting, Camilo shined as an actor, Whilst Malik was such a joker, Shihan always worked so hard, Yifan taught us all about cars, Romaisa spent her hours drawing, Whilst Osha whirled around dancing. A range of talents and strengths, That increased with each Owlet we met. Aadhya came and loved to play Mummy, Chi Chi always shared something funny, Esenia showed she is an artiste, Whilst Fionnuala is a conversationalist-e, Junjie loves to play pretend, Ryan and Lego are best friends, Amira was our final Owlet, Did she fit right in? With her imagination- Yep, you bet. So now we enter July, The beauty is, I don’t have to say goodbye, I will continue to watch you grow, As off into KG1 you go. Miss Allen

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DOLPHINS Pre KG

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Booth Miss. Veronica and I have so many memories of you all that we will cherish, but below are a few things that we have relished, so read below for something that makes you - you, and as you giggle, know that we are smiling too. Shivam: Your love of all things cars and the knowledge you have of them. Alaia: Your daily hugs and compliments to all around you. Molly: Your bubbly character and love for dancing. Sophia: Your infectious laugh that can’t be controlled! Joseph: Your grown-up attitude towards situations and super hoola hooping skills you have gained this year! Mimi: Your love of Mathematics and the daily number facts you share. Sofia: Our long conversations we have together and all of the wonderful facts we learn from you. Kalum: Your amazing mind full of knowledge and your love of reading and stories! Beatrice: The amazing drawings you produce and your love of colouring. Zara: Your thirst for knowledge and inquisitive nature, always eager to take on a challenge. Amaiya: A natural born artist; we can’t wait to see you on stage when you are older. Bader: Your kind and caring approach towards your friends and your generosity. Alexia: Your love of music and listening to the ‘Encanto’ playlist each morning! Emily: The confident and outgoing girl that you have become. Olivia: Your amazing imagination and the ability you have to draw others into your play. April: Your cheeky smile that can light up a room! Zoe: How brave and resilient you were to join our class towards the end of the year. Juma: Your energy and sense of humour always puts a smile on everyone’s face! Simara: Your kind and caring nature towards everybody and the wonderful gems you bring in each day! Chloe: Your love of all things Disney and hearing all about your wonderful trips you have had at Disneyland!

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YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Jack Beanstalk Pre KG and the

Fee, Fie, Foe...Fun! The Junior School had the opportunity to watch theatre group S4K International performing the story of Jack and the Beanstalk. The company adapted the famous fairytale to be performed on stage as a musical, bringing the beanstalk and giant to life. There was lots of laughter and cheering throughout the show.

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Flamingoes KG1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Adetayo It is amazing how time flies when you are having a good time. Ten months of waking up, being driven to school, engaging in various school activities and then repeating the same thing again could feel a little dreary …. However, it has been the opposite for the Flamingoes! A delightful group of children, with an amazing outlook on life, a positive attitude in new situations and courage as fierce as a lion. Kindergarten for the Flamingoes was a place that presented an opportunity to experience new situations, enjoy their achievements and develop their own ideas. Each day has been like a gift that they excitedly unwrapped; an experience to explore the many possibilities it had to offer. They had many great days, when everything seemed to fall seamlessly into place. The world was their oyster. But then there were other days, where the dark clouds would gather; would the sun ever come out again? But through it all, they never gave up. They stood tall like the little soldiers that they are and marched onwards and upwards to face the day. Although this journey has come to an end, a new one is about to begin, and the Flamingoes are ready! They know there will be challenges ahead, they know they might have to climb mountains and descend through valleys. But they also know that when they are high up on that mountain, they need to stop, and take a moment to celebrate their achievements. They also know that when they are in that valley, look up! It is only for a short time. Forge ahead and they will emerge victorious. What an incredible honour and blessing to have been able to help each Flamingoes write a chapter in their biography. As this chapter ends and a new one begins, I am hopeful that it will be filled with exhilarating experiences to enjoy and learn from.

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Leopards KG1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mrs Parsons Well, my little Leopards… What an amazing year it has been, you have all grown so much. You have not only impressed me with your resilience and determination but also your kind hearts and caring nature. You have given Mrs Neeta and I memories to last a lifetime. Abdalla: You have such a big love of learning. I love the big smile on your face when your overcome a challenge. Rithvik: You have an amazing little mind full of knowledge and wonder! I love how curious you are about the world around us and the amazing questions you ask to find out more! Amay: You are such a risk- taker and the way you will always try new things! Your amazing cricket skills and how you teach me to bowl correctly on the playground. Mourad: Your cheeky smile and your sense of humor always put a smile on everyone’s face! Varun: Your passion and enthusiasm for everything about space. I love listening to your amazing facts about black holes and the universe! Arjun: Your amazing ability to solve a Maths problem faster than a calculator always amazes me! Maria Ines: You have such a big, kind heart! You care about your friends so much and always make sure that everyone is okay. Akira: You have become such a beautiful, mature young girl! You have such a passion and energy that inspires everyone around you!

Dario: I love your broad and vivid imagination, the way you think of such wonderful games and get all your friends involved! Kabir: You are kind and caring to everybody! Not a day has gone by where you were not helping somebody in class with their learning. Kainaat: Your happy and bubbly little character. I love listening to your funny jokes and stories that always put a smile on my face! Maryam: I love seeing your beautiful smile every morning and how thoughtful you are, always helping everyone around you. Masha: Your independence and determination have blown me away and how brave you were to join our class in term 3! Olivia: How confident you were to join our class; your cheeky sense of humour makes Mrs Neeta and I laugh every day! Yebin: Your infectious smile and laugh and the sparkly accessories that you love to wear to school! Your amazing drawings never cease to amaze me. Aya: You have the most beautiful smile and caring nature. You have grown into such a confident young girl. Flossie: I love your passion and enthusiasm for learning; I especially love how much you care for animals and want to help them! Sakina: Your love for Maths and how much determination you show when tackling challenges! Saoud: How much your confidence has grown this year and your amazing facts and knowledge about the world around us.

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Arabian Wolves KG 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Brookes The Amazing Arabian Wolves! You have impressed me every day with not only your resilience and determination but also your kind hearts and caring nature. What an amazing adventure we have had this year! Miss Loretha and I have loved watching you grow, learn and laugh. We have made wonderful friendships and memories to last a lifetime! Here are some of the little things that we will miss: Naavya- Your strive for perfection and excitement when solving a problem. Khalid- Your infectious giggle and positive attitude. Abdulla- Your creativity and imagination when building in our construction area. Miraya- Your determination and resilience to try new things. Lilly- Your big beaming smile and love for dancing. Caroline- Your unique imagination, infectious giggle and knowledge of the world. Lucia – Your kind and caring nature and how you encourage your friends. Kadmos- The astonishing facts and knowledge of the world you share with your peers.

Mark- Your creativity and imagination to make beautiful art from anything you find in and around the class. Finley- Your bright smile and how you welcome everyone to play with you. Silas- Your cool dance moves and snack time jokes. Anastasia- Your infectious smile and wonderful drawings. Shiv- Your curiosity and bravery to question the world around you. Uzair- Your infectious giggle and excitement to learn something new. Danya - Your humor, big smile and imagination when playing in our role play area. Tsukie- How you make up your own songs as you paint and draw. Remember to keep smiling and always try your best. Good luck in Grade KG2. We will miss you all!

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CAMELS KG 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Scanlon What an astonishingly stellar, fun and incredible year, All these KG1 Camels deserve the biggest cheer! Each of you adding your own little sprinkle of magic to our class, Fifteen amazing people, none will surpass. As we began, excitement was all around, New Camel friends were quickly to be found. A spectacular class, sparkling everyday, Never do we want any of them to go away! Dynamic and daring Dev, Stupendous and supportive Sid, Lovable and laughing Lamya Sublime and savvy Spencer, Bouncing and beautiful Bo, Leaping and laughing Leticia, Caring and cheerful Celine, Luminous and lovely Layla, Adventurous and angelic Annie, Yipee and youthful Yibole, Amazing and adorable Aira, Gentle and great Gugu, Lively and legendary Lemon, Marvellous and magical Marvan Wonderful and warm William.

They learnt expressing themselves, cultures around the world, living things and transport, With all their minds growing, learning and experimenting, none falling short! Taking on new knowledge, questioning and challenging what they knew, In all areas of the curriculum, each camel FLEW! To Dev, Sid, Lamya, Layla, Spencer, Bo, Leticia. Celine, Annie, Yibole, Aira, Gugu, Lemon, Marvan and William, thank you for being the people you are, We love you and know you will all go far. Shoot for the stars, nothing less will do, You are all superstars, through and through!. www.nlcsdubai.ae 27

Kestrels KG 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Eastabrook What an incredible year this has been for the wonderful Kestrels class. It all began back in August when the little ones were not only starting a new class, but more importantly, most were joining NLCS for the very first time! As they arrived on their first day of school in their gleaming new uniforms and polished school shoes, departing from mummies and daddies seemed a little nerve wracking at first. However, the Kestrels quickly settled into school life, with their enthusiasm and inquisitive minds, nothing was going to stop them. Their first piece of learning is one we cannot forget, as they stated: “Here is my hand, five fingers and all, my first mark in KG1 to hang on the wall. As the years go by, I will remember and say: ‘My hands and I had a very good first day!’ ” The Kestrels have excelled themselves in Maths, Phonics, Reading and Writing to say the least and they continue to wow me every day with their new findings. Whether it is exploring numicon independently, applying their sound knowledge to write imaginative stories or simply reading their homework to their class friends, they apply their variety of skills every day in a range of contexts.

It has been a pleasure watching my Kind Kestrels blossom into their patient personalities and become mature communicators both academically and socially. There have been numerous highlights throughout the year, but one we must not forget are the outstanding exhibitions. The very first exhibition held in Budge Square demonstrated the Kestrels' abilities to showcase how different mediums (Art, Drama, Music) come together to reflect how we as humans express ourselves. Through further learning of the Zones of Regulation, the kestrels continued to discover the importance of being kind, considerate and courteous to everybody in our NLCS family. The most recent exhibition centred around the Unit of Inquiry ‘Sharing Our Planet’. The Kestrels worked tirelessly to discover and research endangered animals around the world. As a class they worked simultaneously to present their fact findings and persuasive letters to encourage humans to stop these animals from becoming extinct. Their accurate presentations left me feeling immensely proud! My Kind Kestrels, I would like to thank you all for being my superheroes every day! I wish you every success as you move into Kindergarten Two.

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KG 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

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Teacher: Ms. Brisbane, Grade 2 Class Teacher and English Coordinator Thursday 3rd March 2022 was the 25th annual World Book Day. Throughout the Junior School, students and colleagues dressed up as their favourite book characters, ready for a day of excitement, reading and celebrating everything to do with books. It was wonderful seeing so many imaginative, funny and creative costumes around school. The classrooms were full of, to name a few, ‘Crayons that Quit,’ Sherlock Holmes, ‘The Hungry Caterpillar’ and ‘Ladybirds who Heard.’ Let’s be honest, who doesn’t enjoy a lesson where your teacher is dressed up too! During the day, students took part in a range of fun reading activities. A favourite of mine was Reading Buddies, where classes paired up so older students could read with younger ones. Watching the older students supporting our younger peers with such patience and enthusiasm was a pleasure and we hope to make this a more regular opportunity in the future. Along with the fun and excitement of World Book Day, we also mustn’t forget how lucky we are to have such a fantastic and varied selection of books available to us. Keeping this in mind, we are already looking forward to World Book Day next year! 32

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

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Tortoises KG 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Ali What a pleasure it has been teaching the Tortoise class of 2022. You have all filled my heart with joy and it has been wonderful watching you all grow into independent, resilient little learners. You are all such a positive group of children, who work so well together. You have grown into a little team, making so much progression along the way. I hope you will all continue to shine as you move into Grade 1. Magnificent Misha: You fill the room with love and energy, for you I will keep the fondest memories. Amazing Alice: You’re mature, bright and very kind, you’re a problem solver with your wonderful mind. Happy Harith: A creative soul with a keen eye for art, your drawings are always so clever and smart. Glorious Grace: Your jokes are always so witty and fun, during Sports Day I was shocked to see how fast you could run. Adorable Ayeza: Each day you always have a story to tell, or you have made something fun to share with your class as well. Ambitious Avy: With an eye for Oxford University one day, a mature boy who really does know his own way. Sweet Sofia: With a tray full of jewels and funny little trinkets, she brings a smile to all faces with those perfect little ringlets. Joyful Jay: You are a ball of energy, brightening up the room, it has been wonderful watching your personality bloom. Smiley Sarah: Always asking questions about what is happening in the day, she has a love for her best friend that will never go away.

Marvelous Masha: A caring friend and big sister who is the perfect role model, even if sometimes she leaves school without her water bottle. Magical Maxi: Always organising the games, especially football, a born leader, when in need, he is the one we can call. Lucky Laith: He enters the class with a smile and a funny story to tell, my Maths superstar who always tries his best to do well. Magnificent Mohammad: A role-model to his sister, he is the best big brother, with a great big smile, bringing joy to one another. Radiant Ridhvi: Always keen to ask questions about the world around her, able to fill us with wonderful information about her country, India. Sweet Sophia: An independent learner, with confidence she has grown, now able to ‘give it a go’ and try something unknown. Amazing Aaron: Entering the classroom with a smile, a kind and playful soul, with a love of football, always wanting to score the first goal. Resilient Roman: Learning new words and phrases day by day, making new friends in the classroom, where he loves to play. www.nlcsdubai.ae 35

pandas KG 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms McAllister Mira is a shining star, she loves to accept a challenge and will go so far Zara makes us all laugh out loud, her work this year has made me proud Salma’s confidence has grown, and she has lots to say; she works hard and always sweetens up our day Ameyaa loves to create masterpieces in Art, her and the colouring pens are never far apart Luca’s ideas inspire us all, I can’t wait to buy his designs in a mall Aashvi loves to further inquire, her appetite to learn will always inspire Rayyan treats everyone with kindness and care, his willingness to help is amazing and rare Kimia is a friend we want on speed-dial, she is eager to complete any task and always with a smile Siena loves reading, writing or learning to spell, she loves learning facts and the chance to retell Yaseen enjoys laughing and having fun, however, he is also quick to get his work done Jason’s smile always lights up our day, he will tackle any task and loves to play Lara loves to read and write, her imagination and reading voice are a delight Amy is eager to learn and spread her joy to each and every girl and boy Meher is a super learner and a sweet friend, her selflessness and kindness know no end Hantang is full of energy and fun, if you want to have giggle, he’s the one Carter enjoys playing with all, he loves his sports, especially football Leo is a very hard-working boy, his kindness to everyone spreads lots of joy Mariana loves to act and sing, happiness and glee, she continues to bring

All our Pandas are individually great, and together, they make a class that I really rate We have made friends and memories to last a long time, our class trips have been a special one of mine Thank you for being so much fun, your kindness and joy are like rays from the sun I will miss you very much, that I do not need to tell, but for now, I want to wish you well I am so proud I was your teacher and was able to watch you grow, We worked so hard, achieved so much, how fast this year did go One thing I tried to teach you to last your whole life through Is that you are unbelievably amazing, just because, you are you!

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Honey Bees KG 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mrs Pathak My name is Mrs Pathak and I’m rapping for you, You welcomed me in February when I was just new! We held each other’s hands and got through term 2, English, Maths and Topic are just a few… I enjoyed every minute of learning with YOU! North, East, South or West, Honey Bees you showed me you’re Dubai’s best! You're smart, funny and helpful I knew but I couldn’t believe it when you knew inquiry too! Following directions in Maths is important for you, It’s easy to learn when you know what to do! Autobiographies taught us exactly who’s WHO? But comics and characters showed the creative in YOU!

Aayan your facts and knowledge are cool, at Dubai Safari you led the tour! Arish you settled in and became part of the crew, sketching and art inspires you! Anaia I certainly see the teacher in you, you have great things waiting for you. Alexi and Edward that brings me to you, your friendship and laughter is like no other, your smiles and laughter will always count in all that you do. Elisa you shine, you light up the day, you are full of colour and warmth just like the sun’s rays Insiyah joins in with kindness for all, her sweet nature and care is always for us all Inara you're sporty and proud of it too, you will go far, try hard and your dreams will come true. Iza you sing, you dance, you soar high…keep it up you make us all feel alive! Judy be proud you’ve worked tremendously hard, you have proved learning English is not so hard! Exploring and learning, always trying your best, Rajvika aim high I know you will fly, Ranvir a true gentleman, truly impressive, your kind deeds shall always be remembered Friends Friends Sienna has friends, in fact all of them want to be Sienna’s best friend Giggles and curls or ribbons and bows, you’ll all agree Serena looks great in them all! Miss Rose helped us grow, we are colours of red, yellow, blues and pinks that now glow Thank you Honey Bees for beeeeing you! www.nlcsdubai.ae

Whales KG 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mrs. Gray The Whales class have had a fantastic year. Not just growing taller, but growing in confidence and developing their strengths throughout all areas of their learning journey. From that very first day you entered the Whales Class for your adventure through KG2, I looked around at your keen and eager faces and wondered, as you all looked back at me, what wonderful things you would do. The Whales have become strong inquirers, thinkers and communicators. I have been blessed to have such a kind and caring group of students throughout the year, showing care, consideration and courtesy to all their peers and teachers, day to day. It has been fantastic to have all the students back in school and slowly being able to take tiny steps to have things ‘how they used to be.’ The students have thoroughly enjoyed the vast amount of different ECAs that they have been a part of. They are always so excited to share with me what they have been doing and learning, from a new move in Irish Dancing or taking a great shot in tennis. We have had some wonderful experiences both in and out of the school: From science experiments using wind socks, which the students made to measure the direction and speed of the wind, to using ice and ghee to investigate how arctic animals keep warm through their layers of fat, fur and feathers. All the students were delighted to be able to go on trips again. The highlight being our trips to the Safari Park, the Chocolate Factory and Oli Oli, all trips providing different but very enlightening experiences. I am so proud of each and every one of the Whales and their personal achievements throughout the school year. They should take great pride in all that they have done and their accomplishments.

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Desert Ants KG 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Worthington Why we love being in the Desert Ants Class Ariana: “I love being in the Desert Ants because I love learning” Sherry: “I love being in the Desert Ants because I love playing” Andrew: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because I like earning coins” Isabella: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because I have all my favourite friends” Noura: “I love being in the Desert Ant class because I love Miss Worthington and Ms. Raquel” Sarah: “I love being in the Desert Ants class class because I love everybody” Emo: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because we have a lot of things to do like activities and maths problems” Olumoroti: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because Miss Worthington teaches me things” Dina: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because everyone is always so nice” Andy: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because school is fun” Sienna: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because I learn” Azmir: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because we learn lots of new things” Chloe: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because I like being with my friends and teacher” Inara: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because it’s fun being with everyone” Advita: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because we do lots of arts and crafts” Amelia: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because I love everyone in my class” Vikrant: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because we learn fun stuff” Max: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because I have met lots of new friends” Miss Worthington: “I love being in the Desert Ants class because every day is different but filled with so much laughter, learning and love. The Desert Ants classroom is a happy warm and friendly environment where everyone is safe and ready to learn”.

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House

ART

Junior School

Art Society House Competition

Teacher: Ms. Meg Hammond, Grade 1 Teacher The Art Society, which is made up of Grade 4s and 5s, decided to put on a Junior School House Competition. They brainstormed some ideas together and then decided to stick to 7 themes and 7 types of media. What would be chosen for each grade? Well, the magic of drawing paper from a hat decided! Pre KG and KG1 created fantastic space collages, while KG2 made some delicious tissue paper food items. Grade 1 showcased their oil pastel work with some making sunsets with silhouette animals. Grade 2 used lots of different natural materials and created transport, some even 3D! Grade 3 painted beautiful sea animals while Grade 4 used cotton-buds for a pointillism style, making mythical creatures. Grade 5’s exceptional sketching ability was showcased with many portrait entries. The Art Society had a tough time choosing the winners but as a team managed to select some wonderful pieces of artwork and first, second and third for each grade all achieved points for their house. We exhibited the winners’ work alongside two collage boards with a range of ‘highly commended’ pieces, who also achieved some points for their house.

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

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KG 2

Teacher: Mrs. Gray, KG2 Grade Leader As KG2 entered the second half of term two, the students were challenged to perform on the stage. This was to be their first performance in over two years. The students rose to the challenge and through practice of learning lines, songs, stage position and how to present to an audience, the KG2 students gave an incredible performance to their parents. Each performance was based on ‘Founder’s Day’. The students were given the opportunity to research information about past headmistresses and the history of North London Collegiate School. Performing Arts allow children to develop creative passions, they simultaneously teach children language and communication skills, helping them to communicate effectively with others with confidence; this was especially evident within each performance.

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

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Badgers Grade 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mr. Roberts

Being a part of the Badgers class at NLCS this year has been a complete privilege. Our class was made At the start of the year with eight existing NLCS Dubai students and nine students new to our school. We Discovered very quickly that we had a marvellous mix of cultures and identities within our class, which Generated lots of discussion as we inquired into celebrations, food and languages. As the year has gone on Each and every one of you have become independent learners, bounding into the classroom every morning Ready for the challenges that lie ahead that day. Our trip to KidZania was a highlight this year and it was great to See you all applying your learning about rules and laws. Computing this year was another highlight, creating a monumental mural of Jackson Pollock artwork with robots before

Leaving your work proudly on display in the school’s main square for all to see. And now it is time for me to say goodbye to a wonderful class of Badgers, hard-working, kind and Smart. You are all ready for Grade Two and I can’t wait to see the amazing things you will all do in the future. So, it is good bye for now and have a great time in Grade Two!

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Parakeets Grade 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mrs Johnson The wonderful Parakeets spread their wings right from the start, Showing their love and care with the warmth in their heart, They are a class that have worked as a terrific team, Being principled to their friends as they plan to achieve their dream. Using their determination to reach their potential for a successful future, Inspired to become doctors, paramedics, athletes or teachers. All of their memories from Grade One will remain with them forever, Thinking of the times where they had so much fun learning together. On Sports day in their house colours cheering each other on, The class assembly singing their teamwork song, Making daffodil art for Founder's Day to show their creativity, Being risk takers choosing extra-curricular activities. The school trip to Kidszania to extend their learning, About jobs around the world and what they were earning, Police force, a banker, a dentist or learning to drive a car, Being a radio presenter, an artist or the next DJ star! Expo 2020 where they explored the pavilions, Helped to be sustainable thinkers on how they could save millions, This linked to weaving with recycled plastic, Just another skill to show how they are so fantastic. In Unit of Inquiry they researched laws and rules, Looking at other countries, communities and the old routine in schools, Watching some work as others played, Showed their resilience and care in many ways. Learning about forces by investigating surfaces for the travel of a car, Looking at distance, using a ruler to measure how far, Exploring magnets in the water and in air, Being scientific and making sure each experiment was fair. Then the class show prevailed their talents in a grand finale, Waving goodbye to their Grade One journey, Now an extra part of their journey starts, Adding another jigsaw piece to the picture with their warming hearts, Grade Two will embrace how wonderful they are, Wishing all the best to each little superstar.

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Geckos Grade 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Hammond A definition of a Gecko 2021 -2022 You might be wondering what the definition of a Gecko might be, To the world a funny lizard thing, oh but not at NLCS you see. For a Gecko is more than just a nocturnal animal that likes to climb, Aryeveer, Leo and Yuto know that a Gecko works super hard all the time. Sami, Yousef and Zoe say that as well as laughing every day, The Geckos are talented, especially when coming together to perform their play. If you asked Darcy and Selma what makes being a Gecko so unique, They would say that everyone always gets a chance to speak. Because as a family of Geckos, we are a supportive team, Maxwell, Sebastian and Lahcene know that having each other to lean on is the dream. Together Geckos believe, achieve and inspire, George and Arhaan would say that we spend our days always wanting to inquire. Because learning is so much fun and makes us smile, Latifa and Viola said that if we talked about why being a Gecko is so great it would go on for a while! After the summer we will all be given a new animal name, Advik and Yousuf know that no matter what we will all still be the same. We’ll be friends, we’ll be a family and we’ll still be those Grade 1 Geckos that were together, Yui and Reeva know that the special memories we made will last forever. To my Geckos of 2021 to 2022, You’ve made my year so fabulous and I’m so glad you’ve loved it too!

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Starlings Grade 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mrs. Wren My dear Superstar Starlings, What an incredible year we have had! You have brought joy and laughter to our classroom every day along with making wonderful progress in your learning through the many opportunities you have engaged in across Grade 1. I feel honoured to have taught you and got to know you all individually. I have learned so much about you and the most important thing I have learnt is how talented you are in your own unique ways. Where do I begin with your many inspiring talents? Firstly, I will start with the outstanding artists we have in our class. From Art Society competition entries to your incredible National Day artwork, you have demonstrated how you can express yourself creatively. Next, I will move on to our extraordinary musicians who impressed us all at the NLCS House Music competition by making it to the final of the event. We cheered our peers on from the side lines throughout their impressive piano, guitar and drum playing. We also have many more wonderful musicians who show dedication to their learning throughout their individual weekly music lessons. Additionally, we have some super talented drama performers who were brave enough to share their BODA recital in front of all their grade one peers in Budge square. Not only are you talented in expressive arts but your passion for Science shines through your learning when we conduct experiments in the classroom. You showed lots of excitement when learning about magnets and challenged yourself to test out your own questions including, are all metals magnetic? As well as your many varying talents I have particularly enjoyed observing the kindness you have shown to one another throughout the year when you exchange kind notes to your peers on our “Thoughtful Thursdays”. I will cherish the amazing memories we made and remember all our adventures too. A highlight in our class was our first trip to KidZania, where we experienced rules and laws in real life settings. Sports Day was also memorable for us where many students showed their athletic talents as well as displaying the true meaning of being a risk taker and tried out each activity even when it was tricky. As we say goodbye to Grade 1, your new chapter in Grade 2 is just about to begin. Reach for the stars, spread your wings and fly. You truly are superstars.

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TURTLES Grade 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Taylor Dear Turtles, I cannot believe how quickly this year has flown by. It seems 5 minutes ago that I was wrapped in warmer layers, making a story video to send to my new class in Dubai – little did I know how amazing it was going to be, being the teacher of Turtles class. Ayaan, thank you for always having a positive attitude and for sharing little stories from your weekend with me. Alanoud, thank you for brightening the classroom with your chatters and giggles. You certainly know how to make us laugh. Zavi, thank you for wowing me with exceptional reading this year. I hope your love of books continues as you move through school. Masha, thank you for starting each morning with, ‘Good Morning Miss Taylor’ and ending each day with, ‘See you tomorrow Miss Taylor’. Meredith, thank you for teaching me everything there is to know about horses, riding and dressage! Keep winning those rosettes! Madelyn, thank you for being a kind, caring and hard-working member of Turtles class. Your creative skills have wowed me too! Dara, thank you for showing me your fantastic drawing and colouring skills throughout the year. You are a real artist! Serena, thank you for wowing us with your spoken drama performances. I can’t wait to see you on the stage in the future. Alexander, thank you for always listening respectfully and trying your best. You always show kindness to your friends. Adam, thank you for your innovative idea to adopt our class snow leopard. Your caring ways don’t go unnoticed. Hamzah, thank you for always striving to reach the top! You have challenged yourself many times this year, well done for taking risks. Haya, thank you for always showing true kindness to all your friends. You have a heart of gold. Malaika, thank you for keeping me up to date with the best items on ‘SALTs’ menu. I’ll think of you whenever I visit! Yusuf, thank you for sharing your worldly knowledge with all of us. You are a human encyclopaedia! Martha, thank you for wowing me with your musical and dancing talents. I look forward to seeing your future performances. Stanley, thank you for always working to the best of your ability. Your mental maths skills continue to wow me. Rian, thank you for teaching me everything there is to know about rocks, minerals, and gemstones! It has been lovely to see your creativity flourish too. Kventin, thank you for always asking questions to further your knowledge. You certainly are an inquirer! Aveeraj, thank you for ‘trying yourself out’ this year. It has been wonderful to see you taking risks. Thank you Turtles for an amazing year filled with laughter, jokes, fantastic school trips, hard work, caring friendships, super celebration days, beautiful art work, countless notes and drawings on my desk, dedication, kindness and most importantly, your smiles each day. You have made this year truly exceptional and it is certainly a year I will cherish.

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SANDCATS Grade 1

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Redmond Once upon a time in an Arabian desert, there lived the most majestic Sand Cats in NLCS Dubai. They were a unique species, who thrived on mastering Maths challenges, reading sensational stories and most of all having fun together. The leader of the pack Miss Redmond, felt unbelievably lucky and privileged to have been blessed with such a talented, kind-hearted group. One sunny August day, the Sand Cats formed their alliances in the Grade One corridor. Out of nowhere, new Sand Cats appeared in Miss Redmond’s classroom, coming from every continent of the world and this was the start of when beautiful friendships were formed. Despite the ‘red’ breaks, where it was too hot to go outside or the social distancing measures, the Sand Cats united as a team and enjoyed playing happily together by creating their own role play games and building giant towers. Every break time, giggles could be heard from the classroom where stories were being shared and many jokes were being told. Before long, the sensible Sand Cats were maturing and growing in confidence. By November, they became expert actors whilst performing their Diwali assembly. A joyous Diwali song raptured and parents brimmed with pride at the performance. With all their courage and talent, they faced their next challenge and participated in the House Music Competition and House Photography Competition, where one talented member of the pack was crowned champion. Over the academic year, the Sand Cats came dressed to impress for World Book Day, International and National Day celebrations. Little legs wandered quickly through the grounds of Expo and KidZania, where the inquisitive inquirers were eager to ‘try themselves out’ in new roles. Cheery smiles could be seen for miles. The days and months rolled in one. The famous saying, ‘time flies when you’re having fun,’ certainly applied to this dream team.

One sorrowful day, the leader of the pack realised that it was time to say goodbye to her favourite class. However, when Miss Redmond reflected on all of the incredible memories they had experienced together, she knew that her Sand Cats were ready to brave the Grade Two wilderness on their own and show their next teacher their hardworking nature. Luckily, the pack realised that Miss Redmond was only down the corridor and she would be waving hello to them every time they passed. The Sand Cats knew that as long as they stayed true to themselves, made beautiful mistakes and embraced every opportunity that came their way, they would live happily ever after.

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Grade 1 Trip to

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mr. Roberts What an amazing trip to KidZania Grade One had this year! We explored all that KidZania had to offer and learnt a lot about the rules and laws that govern the world of adults. For some, the best part of KidZania was zooming around the roads in our very own cars, after passing our driving test of course. For others, joining the Ambulance, Fire or Police service was a great way to find out more about how people keep us safe, while also gaining a better insight into the training it takes to become a doctor. Perhaps the most exciting jobs took place in the skies as an Emirates pilot, or even an astronaut. But mostly, Grade One loved working for DHL and the window cleaning service, as these businesses paid the most money for their hard work! After a day of fun, Grade One settled down for a slice of pizza, before boarding the bus back to NLCS Dubai, with lots of new memories made with friends and a deeper understanding of the world of work.

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Message from the Deputy Head of Junior School As I come to the end of my second year at NLCS Dubai, I am still amazed every day by the incredible potential our students show. At the heart of what we do is the learner profile. These ten aspirational qualities inspire, motivate and unite us all with a common focus on the whole person, as a lifelong learner. The quality which really resonates with me is being a risk tasker. For many people there is almost an inherent fear of failure. At NLCS, however, we understand that you just might fail, but you try it anyway and you work harder to succeed. Failure can often be an intimidating idea and, for some, the fear of failure can prevent them from challenging themselves to do difficult things. But in order to be truly successful, there must be a possibility of failure. I am always so impressed with how our students approach unfamiliar situations with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave. Because of this quality, I know they are going to achieve incredible things. As I reflect on this, the extracts from ‘Maybe’ by Kobi Yamada come to mind. This story describes the endless potential in all of us and how taking risks, showing resilience and never giving up is can lead to wonderful things. You already have all it takes to do big things. There will be struggles there will be fears, and it won’t always be easy At times it will feel really hard And you might make a mess of things You might even fall down Maybe you will invent something that no one has ever seen before? Maybe you will build things that reach high up into the sky? Your life is yours Try as many things as you can try See as much as you can see Wherever you go take your hopes, pack your dreams and never forget it is on journeys that discoveries are made. And maybe, we will exceed our wildest dreams. Thank you for another brilliant year and I look forward to welcoming you back in August.

Michaela Carney Deputy Head of Junior School NLCS Dubai

Message from the Head of Lower School Dear Students… The epitome of challenge This surely has to be, For to condense a year on a page, Is simply impossible for me!

It was then the turn of Grade Two, My first mini exhibition, Sharing personal art, Their purpose and composition

As the plane touched down In the sweltering summer heat, Nothing could have prepared me, For the wonderful students I was soon to meet

It wasn’t all blue skies As they say, to feel the lows Is to know the highs

Founder’s Day brought us together as one, We recognised our heritage and where we’d all come from, How NLCS started, and came to be, The headmistresses that weaved our illustrious history.

The New Year arrived And with it distance learning, But the students soldiered on Their thirst for knowledge still burning

Term 3 was upon us and The heat hit extreme! A time of reflection, Acts of kindness, Greetings of Ramadan Kareem!

Faced with Covid darkness, Not a single child forlorn, Their resilience the light That ushered in the dawn

It was the turn of Grade 5 To take centre stage, Their exhibition, a celebration of inquiry, Presenting their findings, in person and on page.

I was welcomed to the school with Warmth and open arms, And instantly wowed by their Confidence and charm A school blessed with talent, The culture so rich and diverse, I couldn’t wait to get started, Get involved and immerse My first term in Lower School, And I was simply blown away, An array of endless talent On permanent display, Surpassing the expectations of Each and every day There was singing and dancing, And acting supreme, As Grade Three showed us what it was to be a team! They awakened the theatre From its two-year slumber, Regaling tales of Peter Pan that Not even face masks could encumber The weather began to change, The evenings almost cool, As a wave of red, green and black Washed over our school, I donned the Kandora and we joined in celebration, Marking 50 golden years of this Prosperous nation

Term 2 gathered momentum, NLCS has Talent lived up to its name, From ice-skating to acrobatics, Students giving all to great acclaim! Sports Day arrived and all took to the track, Winners and risk-takers, That never looked back Giving all for their house Determined to race, Who would be victorious Javi, Hafeet, Yibir or Jais? Teachers vs teachers, In a grueling tug of war, Students watching on, You could hear the bleachers roar!

Research, teamwork, Effective collaboration, All came together for a Dazzling presentation Every group involved in the perfect culmination! Well, if that’s my first year Then I look forward to the next! The talent in this school Has left me quite perplexed! I am proud of every single one of you, your ongoing success, It’s truly been a pleasure, Thank you. My first year at NLCS.

Then came the moment we all stood still. As Grade Four showed their True Colours, And the meaning of the daffodil.

Steven Helliwell Head of Lower School NLCS Dubai

swans

Grade 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mr. Parry Grade two Swans are the best, Ridiculously talented I must suggest. Another year done at NLCS, Developing, learning and continuous progress. Each and every one of you are simply the best. Term two I started in this amazing class, Wonderful Swans you always surpass. Outstanding and gifted that’s who you all are. See you around when you’re in Grade three, Welcome as always you know where I’ll be. Amazing fond memories I will have of you all, Now I can tell you it’s been a ball. Swans, I will miss you. Good luck to you all. All the best. It’s been an honour to teach you in Grade two. Aim for the stars.

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WILDCATS

Grade 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Brisbane Dear Wildcats, I want to tell you all what a pleasure it has been getting to know each of you this year. Your enthusiasm for learning has been remarkable and I have loved watching you take on new challenges with determination and perseverance. During each Unit of Inquiry, you took on new learning, with motivation and an open mind. You have all become great risk-takers, challenging what you know and always looking for opportunities to do more and try something new. I was particularly impressed with your engineering skills when building strong, tall structures. I will always search for terrific triangles wherever I am and I hope you will too! Your scientific understanding when investigating water was also very impressive. You challenged yourself to use scientific vocabulary to develop your knowledge, and demonstrated compassion and awareness of the challenges faced around the globe. The water cycle song will always remind me of you too! This year we were lucky enough to share many exciting and beneficial learning experiences. You all demonstrated your fantastic art skills at Jam Jar, creating your own self-portraits on canvas. Later in the year, we were privileged enough to experience a trip to Expo 2020, visiting a variety of fantastic pavilions. More recently, we observed Dubai from a different viewpoint on the opentop bus, seeing the phenomenal Dubai skyline from a new perspective. Your thoughtful questions during each of these field trips remind me of what excellent inquirers you have all become. I feel very lucky to have been your class teacher this year. I have watched you all grow and mature into kind, caring and hard-working individuals who want to achieve their best. I wish you all the best of luck in your futures at NLCS and beyond.

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ORYX

Grade 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Collins Dear Oryx class, Thank you to everybody for such a memorable 2021-22. We have had a lot of laughs and many things to be proud of. It all began back in August, when some very shy (and much shorter!) Oryx walked into the classroom. You were still used to being a Gecko or a Stingray or a Badger, but after you saw Ollie Oryx, you all got used to being the amazing Oryx class. We learned about everyone’s cultures. Anita’s Dad told us all about the carnivals in Brazil, Joshua’s mum told us about the Pakistani dancing and respect in Japan and Mahi’s Dad shared his childhood in India. Then came THE FOOD. We couldn’t try anyone else’s food, but the classroom smelled like a buffet brunch. There was Kimchi from Harin and Mooncakes from Honey and even samosas from Mahnoor. We continued our cultural journey, reading the Girl who Stole an Elephant and Hamda was outraged by the use of elephants for work. In Science, we became archeologists and hunted for bones. Though when we dissected the fish bones there were a lot of “EWWs” across the classroom. We then delved into the world of Art and had the chance to express ourselves. We demonstrated great resilience in our sewing and after I threaded and RETHREADED what felt like a thousand needles, we were all able to sew our art. We were lucky enough to visit Jam Jar and the bus nearly got stuck around the tight streets. You all produced some amazing canvases. There was Danyal’s, with his signature Godzilla pattern inside and Anita’s, full of music. After we were artists, we met a professional artist (via zoom) and spoke to Kabir’s dad about his life as a musician- with a few songs in between. Another screaming moment was when we entered the black box room and investigated our eyes reacting to light. Even better was when Mufaddal said boo and made me jump!

2022 arrived and so did Angela. We made our own “drinking water” using condensation and I even tried some (though it did still taste muddy!). Still hydrating, we made healthy juice using our scaling skills. Devika and Elaina even did more calculations so they could get more juice! Zara put her confidence to good use as we acted out the little raindrop’s journey, ready to write our poem. We transformed the classroom into a settlement (it even had a pizza express) and Daniil built the shelters for everyone. We had winners galore, as Zinny won the music competition and Joshua and Angela were finalists in NLCS Got Talent! We visited Expo 2020 and Ishaan added even more stamps to his collection. Sports day came next, and even the ice pops couldn’t cool us down. The heat didn’t stop Imran jumping to victory. That’s not all, during World Book Day we had Hasan the chef, Mahi Mary Poppins and many Harry Potter stars! Phew! This was all in one short term. Then our final Oryx arrived- Mark, ready to tell us all his knowledge on structures. We braved the heat on the Bus tour and saw all the incredible structures in Dubai. I am so proud of you all and I will savour these final few weeks as Oryx class 2022. All in a year’s work for the Oryx class! www.nlcsdubai.ae

MEERKATS

Grade 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mrs. Murphy Dear Marvellous Meerkats, First, I would like to say a big thank you for making my first year at North London Collegiate School Dubai, such a fantastic one. You and your families have made me feel very welcome. It has been a pleasure to get to know you all. Also, I am proud of the fact that every student has worked hard and has shown good progress in their learning. Well done Meerkats! You really have been a pleasure to teach. I will always remember… Adam A’s hard-working approach in all lessons and his friendly personality. Hanan’s inquiry skills and her sensible attitude. Savannah’s extremely entertaining reading aloud and her great sense of humour. Isabelle’s thinking skills and her friendly personality. Idir’s amazing questions in lessons and his great sense of humour. Aariana’s lovely presentation of her work and her friendly personality. Tanvi’s principled, hard-working attitude in all lessons and her caring personality. Rachel’s inquiry skills and her principled attitude. Devishi helping others with their learning and her courtesy. Adam H’s enthusiasm in all lessons and his friendly personality. Kyaan’s great sense of humour and his motivation to learn. Kiran’s passion for reading and her principled approach in lessons. Rhea’s caring nature and motivation to learn. Aaron’s great questions in lessons and his friendly personality. Falcon’s strong inquiry skills and her principled behaviour. Omar’s sense of humour and his effort in lessons. Rayaan’s hardworking approach and his love of a challenge. Rashid’s motivation to take risks and challenge himself and his good communication skills. Aurelius’ great Computing skills and his helpfulness in those lessons. Freddie’s knowledge particularly in Unit of Inquiry sessions and his principled attitude in all lessons. What a lot of wonderful memories. I hope that you enjoy your next adventure in Grade Three. I will miss you all. Best wishes from Mrs Murphy

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SPARROWS

Grade 2

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mrs. Durkan What a fabulous first year this has been for me at NLCS Dubai. It has been an absolute pleasure to teach the wonderful Grade 2 Sparrows this year. We have shared moments of joy, celebration, achievement and have overcome many challenges together. What a team! As our year together progressed, I grew more and more impressed by the confident, motivated, independent learners that they have all become. They are compassionate, resourceful and brave learners who enjoy every opportunity to explore their wide array of talents, making life-long friends on the way. Their zest for learning and wanting to find out more, along side their positive attitude and support for each other make every day at school a wonderful one. Highlights from this year are of course the trips to Expo 2020 and our bus trip to look at the structures in Dubai. Sports Day was also a great day. I clearly remember the Sparrows cheering the Grade 2 teachers in the tug of war, and the joy on their faces when we won! The Sparrows are skilled individuals who have been artists, engineers, scientists, authors, poets, mathematicians and all of these times have shaped this year into one that is full of memories that we can treasure. I am extremely proud of each and every Sparrow as they embark on their next chapter of new learning that awaits them. I am certain they will continue to shine.

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Libraries Junior School

Teacher: Mrs. Brown This year, the Junior School libraries have continued their development into bright, welcoming and calm spaces with the new FS library on the Ground Floor and the Buss Library on the First Floor. The students look forward to their sessions and have enjoyed immersing themselves in the different worlds on offer within the pages of their chosen books. It has been hugely satisfying to see children really enjoying the process of selecting books, reading and finding new areas of interest and passion. This in turn sparks curiosity which is further developed and supported when they find new and different books to enjoy. Being able to guide them, making suggestions and finding that surprise, successful book discovery has been a real privilege. We have been able to enjoy some wonderful events such as listening to The Little Ghaf Tree reading and taking part in a planting activity on National Day, browsing the 1000s of books at the Winter Book Fair and taking part in the fantastic celebrations on World Book Day. Lower School students also had the chance to take part in the Emirates Literature Festival, reading and reviewing books and watching their favourite authors online. Library-focused ECAs have been extremely successful, and the students have wholeheartedly embraced the reintegration of the library back into their school routines.

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

This year has also seen the reintroduction of the Library Leaders: Grade 5 students who fizz with enthusiasm, who love books, have a vision of how they would like the library to develop and who have supported the ongoing development of the libraries with dedication and commitment. The 2021-2022 Library Leaders were: Elsa Wang Xiaohan Liu Mira Ertam Nidal Sheikh Anish Degamber Nooria Khan Ziad Awad Eleanor Jackson We look forward to the coming academic year when we will continue to develop the libraries, building the collections and continuing our commitment to maintaining a personalised, relaxed and stimulating learning environment for all students. “Children read to learn - even when they are reading fantasy, nonsense, light verse, comics or the copy on cereal packets, they are expanding their minds all the time, enlarging their vocabulary, making discoveries: it is all new to them.” – Joan Aiken

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Grade 2

Bus Trip Teacher: Mrs. Collins During their unit on: How the World Works, Grade Two had the opportunity to explore Dubai. And there is only one way to explore during the long May days, by double decker bus! As Grade Two left school, they raced towards the buses with excitement painted on their faces. They eagerly boarded the bus. Belts on, Hats on, listening ears on and away they went. Grade Two journeyed around Dubai. First stop, Bur Dubai. They saw the traditional buildings and were able to apply their knowledge of stability to understand why the buildings were all a certain shape. The teachers questioned everyone on how the buildings were kept cool, and they discovered the first invention of air conditioning, sort of.

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

After that, the students continued their voyage towards more familiar buildings. They noticed such a transformation. There was an array of different shapes and sizes across the motorway. There was a competition, who would be the first to spot the Burj Khalifa? Shouts echoed around the bus once the tall spire was spotted in the distance. Conversations about structural choices and durability rippled across the bus. The Grade Two students were lucky enough to take a short break within Dubai Mall and explore. They demonstrated impeccable behaviour whilst analysing the structure of the interior of the mall. Finally, with some cajoling, they left the mall and began their journey back to school. The Grade Twos were nearly joined by another member when a bird decided to launch itself at Mrs Murphy but the screams and arm waving was enough to send it back on its way around Dubai. On the way back, they were teaching each other all of the amazing facts they had learned on the way. There were shouts of triangles being spotted around Dubai and how they were the strongest shape on Earth. Finally, it wouldn’t be a structures tour without visiting the Museum of the Future. There was not a triangle in sight with the mesmorising circular shaped building. Sweat gripping, smiles beaming, the students returned to the most spectacular structure of them all: NLCS!

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Salamanders Grade 3

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Morgan To My Special Salamanders, We have come to the end of our time in Grade 3 and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the wonderful memories that we have made together throughout the course of this year. Although Covid restrictions did ease slightly, you still faced a number of challenges, which together, you overcame to have a very successful year. This year has been memorable for many reasons but a stand out moment for myself, has to be the Peter Pan Production that you were a part of all the way back at the start of the year. To think that you had only been in Grade 3 a matter of weeks and created a show that was nothing short of spectacular, is a truly incredible achievement. You showed professionalism, resilience and exceptional collaboration to put on a performance that was thoroughly enjoyed by all who came to watch it. I was so incredibly proud of each and every one of you and this is not only a special memory of my year with you, but my teaching career so far. Throughout the course of this year, you have demonstrated many of the Learner Profile Attributes, from Thinkers in your Maths lessons when tackling challenging problems; Principled students when working as part of a team to create your NGOs in Unit of Inquiry; to being Open-Minded when developing your art skills during our trip to The Jam Jar. You have continually exhibited the Learner Profile of Caring People throughout the course of the year, as you have supported and encouraged one another in all areas of your learning. This year, you have all worked extremely hard to accomplish your own personal targets and I am very proud of your many achievements, both in and outside of the classroom. It has been my sincere pleasure teaching you this year and it has been wonderful to watch you grow and flourish. I will certainly miss your bright smiles, sense of humour and kind-hearted nature but I look forward to continuing to follow your journey at NLCS Dubai. I wish you all the very best in Grade 4 and beyond. With warm regards, Miss Morgan

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Foxes Grade 3

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Teacher: Ms. Sautter A poem for the Foxes Together for a year, How the days have really flown, Now time has brought us here, I’m so proud of how you’ve grown. In our class of brilliant Foxes, Who all reach for the skies, We have Fatima and Amar, They can spell words of any size. The Foxes are unique in their own special way, Lea’s singing as a mermaid was one highlight of our play, Keshav was a pirate in our production of Peter Pan, Humza has been a keen cricketer since the year began. Diana loves being on the stage, Arya’s writing keeps us turning the page, Asher creates origami works of art, Alexandra’s gymnastics wowed us from the start. Ahmed is our football superstar, Arya-Leah amazed us playing her guitar, Samara is a talented pianist, Reem, our budding scientist. Jacob impressed us as Peter Pan, Clint came first on Sports Day when he ran. Anna always has a new book, Aesan was a fearsome Captain Hook! Matias made us proud in the NLCS Has Got Talent final at school. Philippa spends many of her days swimming in the pool, Anastasia’s performance as brown mouse filled Lower School with glee, Kabir represented Hafeet in the Spelling Bee. In the Foxes class, our pets bring us so much cheer, Blake has shared updates about Winter all year, When we were online, Teddy helped Yi Eun to study, Aryan has shown us his fluffy dog Buddy. With many happy memories, You have made my year so bright, Now it’s time to say goodbye, Before you all take flight. I will miss you all a lot, When we go our separate ways, You have made me smile so much, Each and every day. So before you head out of our classroom door, I wish you well for your adventure in Grade Four. www.nlcsdubai.ae

falcons Grade 3

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mr Mounsey What a year it has been. I am so proud of the progress I have seen the Falcon Class make. They have developed as learners, improved as inquirers and most importantly grown as caring, kind individuals. This year we were finally able to sit a little closer and we completed our collaborative learning in class around the table again, rather than online. This year I have been delighted to see how Adam, Yixuan, Iman and Reyna have pushed themselves to speak up and share their valuable insights. Aiden, Emilia, Viraj, Shaurya and Bodhi have engaged me in thoughtful conversation and I’ve been made to think by the probing questions asked during lessons by Nour, Sienna, Sami, Edoardo and Nirvan. I’ve been filled with pride at seeing the growing confidence in Livinia, Areebah, Zoya, Yuka and Kayan. I’ve been made to laugh by the witty contributions made by Sebastian, Doudou, Daniel, Rania and Minty. As a class, the Falcons have been welcoming to strangers, making them friends in a matter of minutes; they have inquired into the impact of migration, our impact on the environment and the way in which we, humans, create organisations to support the needs of others and ourselves. They have researched and investigated scientifically; they have written in a range of genres and they have increased their understanding and application of mathematics. They have done all of this together, supporting one another and with a sense of fun in all they do. Above all, this year, I have been shown time and time again, that this is a class full of caring individuals, excited inquires and reflective learners. It has been my pleasure to teach this wonderful group of students this year and I wish them all the best as they continue their educational journeys.

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Stingrays Grade 3

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Teacher: Mrs. L Morgan A joy to teach, A pleasure to know, An honour and privilege, To watch you all grow. A class full of experts, Always willing to share, Wisdom and knowledge, About topics common or rare. Turn to: Husayn for all things Harry Potter, And anything magical; Lakskana for Greek, Norse or Egyptian Gods, And all that’s mythical; Karam for knowledge of the sea, Sharks and whales, his speciality; Anais, an author and skilled acrobat, In NLCS Talent Show, we praised her circus act. Akari, our times tables Queen, First place in TTRS; Hussam’s dancing is unmatched, In fact, we’d say it’s the best! Ellie’s organisation and word of the day, Hannah’s sweet and helpful ways, Amine’s passion for every activity, Arjun Vijay’s all-round positivity. Jana impressing us on the violin, Maryam delights us whenever she sings. Hridaan kindly asks ‘May I open the door for you?’ Ilhan, our right-hand man, a gentleman too. Riva celebrates us all, Zaidan loves sports, especially football, Taymoor is our superstar swimmer, Minjun is the problem-solving winner, Iselin’s precision and perfect presentation, Eshaal’s focus and tremendous concentration, MJ as our actress, Captain Hook, Bailey, our class story-teller, often buried in a book, Caleb, our artist of the class. Arjun Baheti, a leader of Maths. A class full of thinkers, Motivated and kind, Our class is a family, All with strengths, Eager minds. Passionate learners, Masters of creativity, Fun and inquisitive, A warrior philosophy. A joy to teach, A pleasure to know, An honour and privilege, To watch you all grow.

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Peter Pan The Musical

The G3 production of ‘Peter Pan The Musical’ was a roaring success! The Grade 3 students provided their audience with an outstanding performance, a celebration of their many theatrical talents and a culmination of weeks of hard work from the students and the G3 production team. It was wonderful to bring our school Performing Arts Centre back to life after so many months in the dark.

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

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YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms Peoples, Junior School Music Teacher Albert Einstein was known to say “I see my life in terms of music…I get the most joy in life out of music.” Music in our atrium again, singing from our students, performances galore, how much joy our musicians have brought to NLCS this year. It has even more special meaning having had almost two years of quiet corridors, untouched piano keys and restful voices. What a wonderful year we’ve had as a musical community, Junior School. As my second year at NLCS Dubai comes to an end, trying to choose just a few highlights is proving rather difficult. It was music to my ears, hearing those words, ‘you may sing and perform again’ back in August. And sing we did! Grade 3 set the bar high with their performance of Peter Pan. It was a privilege and honour to conduct the chorus of this wonderful musical. Winter concerts were next on the horizon with a welcome return of our parents to the First School Library where the erection of our stage has opened up a world of performance opportunities. Our youngest students, PreKG and KG1 sang a variety of winter themed songs to the ooos and aahhhs of proud parents. Ms. Magdalena and I had just caught our breaths and it was time for our ECA Choir and Orchestra to wow in the Performing Arts Centre. Music Morning Series has provided a welcome platform for our musicians to showcase their instrumental talents in a safe, encouraging environment. Students and parents alike have enjoyed the inclusive nature of these performances- all abilities have been welcome to perform and it has been a learning curve for students into the preparation that goes into a live performance. Founder’s Day performances in First School saw our KG2’s singing a huge variety of songs from the different eras of our Founding Principals. They even learned a song ‘as Gaeilge’ (in Irish) in honour of Dr. Sophie Bryant and her love for Irish history. I must be mindful that other departments want to speak about their fantastic NLCS students and remain within my word count. There are many other highlights, The Enormous Turnip (G1), Arts Festival, House Music that our musicians excelled in. A final note for our NLCS community- Dust off that piano, pick up the guitar, warm up the vocal cords over the summer holidays and get ready for more performances. Let us keep music live. As the Swedish proverb goes, those who wish to sing, always find a song.

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Kingfishers Grade 4

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mr. Gibbons Dear Kingfishers, The Kingfishers class of 2021-2022. What a journey you have all embarked on; you have been on a fantastic learning journey, on which you have explored the world, discovered trading routes, understood the importance of supply and demand and fair trade. You embarked on a journey with William Kwamkwamba to save a nation and supply sustainable energy. You supported Ally Nickerson through her academic difficulties and discovered a new understanding of developing friendships, supporting your peers and overcoming fears. This is just inside the classroom. Socially you have all matured and become global citizens; you have ensured that the new members of our school understand what it means to be an NLCS student. We traveled to our Grade 4 residential trip where you all showed incredible resilience and determination to overcome and succeed. Each lesson, each educational journey we went on as a class, I did my best to make sure you enjoyed it, that you were having fun, whilst you learnt and hopefully made memories that will live long in your memory. New friendships were formed and old ones strengthened. Ideas were shared and knowledge was passed on. Different languages were spoken and many questions were asked. My personal highlight of the year has to be the Founder's Day Play. As a class we faced great adversity to even be able to take part in the play due to a large number of students being in quarantine, however you all supported and encouraged each other, learnt extra lines and memorised new stage positions. On the night of the performance every single student showed incredible resilience and performed wonderfully, it truly made me proud to be your teacher. It has been a pleasure to guide and support you all this year and to see the outstanding progress you have all made. I look forward to seeing you around the school and catching up on the continued progression you are making. You should all be very proud of your achievements this year. Kindest Regards, Mr. Nathan Gibbons The King of Kingfishers

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Arabian Gazelles Grade 4

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Roberts The proverb says, “Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself.” Arabian Gazelles, this is exactly what you have done this year, demonstrating the learner profile attributes in a multitude of ways. I feel incredibly proud to have worked with students with such a deep lying passion and motivation to further their knowledge and understanding, and to witness the achievements and contributions you have also made outside the classroom. This year, you have been risk-takers on the residential to Umm Al Quwain, trying yourselves out with new experiences such as the Leap of Faith and Jacob’s Ladder. You have been thinkers in Maths, using your critical and creative thinking skills to show a range of strategies when problem solving and reasoning. Confidently presenting your business plans to promote ethically produced products, you have been excellent communicators, working collaboratively in your teams to reach your goal. You have asked thought-provoking questions, following your curiosity in all of the Unit of Inquiry units. You have been principled in your daily actions, acting with integrity and honesty, and caring with your friends. The list is endless, but I certainly know that you are strong, resilient learners who love learning challenging things and concepts. Your potentiality is truly limitless! You have met, but most importantly, relished the challenges that your teachers have presented you with, grasping every opportunity alongside being hungry for more. Behind you, are your wonderful parents, who have shown a huge amount of dedication, passion and energy to supporting you over the year, and so, to your parents, thank you. As the year has now come to an end, I see you all as confident learners who take responsibility and ownership of your learning. I have loved speaking to you about your strengths and areas of growth, and I feel that you are certainly prepared for the transition into your new grade. I wish you all the best of luck in the next stage of your exciting educational journey, and I look forward to witnessing your exponential personal growth and academic achievements in the future. My final message to you, my Arabian Gazelles, is to always remember the words of A.A. Milne, “You’re braver than you believe and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think”.

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OWLS Grade 4

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Ms. Leybourne Dear Owls, At the very beginning of our time together in Grade 4, I still remember our exciting discussions about the year ahead and what an adventure it would be. As your Class Teacher, it has been my pleasure to watch you all blossom into the sincere, considerate and energetic students that you are today. Your enthusiasm and motivation have gone a long way in helping me to help you fulfil your goals and aspirations. Watching your friendships blossom and the way you have respectfully welcomed new students into Owls Class has made me very proud to be your teacher. This year, you have worked extremely hard in all areas of the curriculum. At each stage along the way, your determination to develop the key learner profile attributes has shone through. You have become excellent Communicators, using your voice in our units of inquiry to suggest ideas for positive change in the world. As Caring individuals, you have learnt the importance of justice and equality and shown your openminded spirit in response to some of the more challenging issues faced in our class novels. The way in which you have combined new ideas and information in different learning contexts has helped you to become ever more Knowledgeable as you progressed through the year. As the wise old owls that you have now become, I hope you always remember the monumental highlights from our time together in Grade 4. I certainly remember the Leap of Faith moments on our adventure trip to Umm Al Quwain Marine club where you tried yourself out in sea kayaks and climbed the high ropes on giant ladders. You became skilled actors in our Founder’s Day Play and flourished in the many exciting events on Sports Day.

All these moments defined you as Risk-takers and demonstrated your courage and commitment to step outside your comfort zones. You can be proud of your huge accomplishments this year. I am extremely happy and grateful that I have had the opportunity to get to know each and every one of you and your individual personalities. You are kind, thoughtful and unique students who have been a true pleasure to teach this year. I will miss the Owls of 2021 -2022 but look forward to seeing you soar to new heights as you move to Grade 5 next year. I wish you all the very best.

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ARABIAN horses Grade 4

YEAR BOOK 2021-22

Teacher: Mr. Beasant Dear Students of the Arabian Horses class 2021-2022, We have reached that time whereby our paths must move in different directions. This is due to your need for further progression and for learning opportunities that continue to deepen your understanding of the world we live in. It is something we must celebrate, embrace and be excited for! It has been a thoroughly enjoyable year teaching each and every one of you. I have loved having the opportunity to not only get to know you all so well, but to do my best to help support you all academically, socially and emotionally throughout our Grade 4 adventure. I would like to say a huge thank you to you all. I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to be your class teacher and it has been a wonderful experience. Together, we have created a magnificent team spirit and I admire how each of you have always arrived with a smile and a real willingness to do your very best, both for yourselves and also for our brilliant school. There have been countless scenarios whereby you have enabled me to grow as a teacher and add further experience to my approach as an educator – and you will continue to help everyone around you in the future – even if you do not realise it at the time!

Each of you have been Thinkers, Open-minded, Knowledgeable, Inquirers, Risk takers, Balanced, Caring, Communicators, Principled and Reflective in your day-to-day accomplishments at our school this year and you should be extremely proud. As you move on into Grade 5, I hope you remember fondly of your time as an Arabian Horse and continue to push for excellence – whether that be academic, sporting or on a personal level inside or outside of school. The achievements you are all capable of are truly limitless. Always be positive, challenge your thinking and embrace struggle as if it were a friend. I look forward to seeing you all again in the future and wish you a fantastic summer break. Best wishes, Mr. Beasant

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A Book Review of Fish in a Tree By Lynda Mullay Hunt By: Myra Sobti, Grade 4 Arabian Gazelles Do you enjoy reading books that relate to real life? Do you like New York Times Bestsellers? If your answer is yes, then Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullay Hunt is the right book for you. Fish in a Tree is a fantastic book set in Connecticut, which has won many awards such as SLJ Best Book 2015, Global Read Aloud Choice 2015, and ALSC Notable Book of 2016. Ally Nickerson, a young, inadequate girl, suffers from a reading disability. Her eyes see a different world. A world where letters move and dance! To keep this a secret, she creates trouble with distractions, which also helps her avoid reading and writing assignments. Along her journey, Ally meets brave, tell it like it is, Keisha, and logical, astute Albert, who both support her and are always by her side. But, Ally continues to worry about her future, and hide within her imagination... But then, the new teacher arrives... Will he see beyond the troublemaker? Or will he ignore her just like every other teacher? In my opinion, the book Fish in a Tree is extremely compelling. This is because I am also a student in school, and I can understand how Ally was feeling. I was also on the edge of my seat while reading the entire story and just could not stop. My favourite part in the book is when the author writes, ‘Great minds don’t think alike.’ I recommend the book to children from 8 to 12 years old. It sends a powerful reminder that you should never put a label on someone, or judge them without getting to know them first. So, if you want an utterly unputdownable book, look no further than Fish in a Tree...

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Grade 4

Founder's Day Production 2022

By Myrah Mehta, Grade 4 Arabian Horses Back in 1850, NLCS was founded by a pioneer and a champion named Frances Mary Buss. From there, NLCS gradually grew into the prestigious school that we all appreciate and love today. On the 24th of March 2022, the Grade 4 team of NLCS Dubai celebrated its Founders’ Day through a combined effort of all students studying in Grade 4. The product of the hard work and dedication was an extraordinary ‘West End’ stage production to highlight this amazing journey and growth of NLCS from 1850-2022. Together, we worked seamlessly and flawlessly by moving on and off stage, setting up props and changing scenes showing great professionalism. The production itself took the audience back in time, giving a nostalgic and warm feel. Mr. Helliwell, our Head of Lower School, scripted the themes for us to perform and scenes were then distributed to the classes of Grade 4. Then began the excitement of allocating roles, learning lines, creating costumes, making props, and taking part in rehearsals. After a lot of practice and hard work, the play was performed and was deemed a roaring success - it was immensely appreciated by parents, teachers and students of our magnificent school.

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This play showed NLCS’ true colors and it filled our hearts with gratitude and appreciation for everyone’s dedication towards our wonderful school. Our finale song ‘True Colours’ by ‘Cyndy Lauper’, encompassed all of the aspects of NLCS and was a fitting end to our performance as we were able to display daffodils as a sign of appreciation. The significance of the daffodil was explained through our production as it was Frances Mary Buss’ favourite flower and it was handed over to each incoming principal when they assumed the role of Headmistress. Finally, our performance was finished by giving a note of thanks to the founder of our Junior School at NLCS Dubai Mrs. Navin. Her kindness, dedication and contribution to the school we have today will always be remembered and we cannot thank her enough for everything she has done for us. Founder’s Day play by Ramsey Najja, Grade 4 Owls This year, Grade 4 rose to the challenge of performing the Founder’s Day play in front of the entire Junior School and parents. It was an amazing opportunity to try ourselves out as actors and we spent hours rehearsing our individual class scenes. Throughout the whole process, Grade 4 students had to draw upon a whole range of skills including researching the history of NLCS London and the founding Headmistress, Miss Frances Mary Buss. We organised our rehearsal time slots on stage and worked efficiently as a team to make our performance successful. Everyone had so much fun in their role! We spent weeks perfecting our actions and voices to portray realistic characters and scenes. The Owls class were in charge of the Graduation scene which portrayed Dr Sophie Bryant – the second Headmistress of NLCS London - graduating from university and pioneering for women’s rights. I was the University Official handing out the certificates – I wore a gown and a mortarboard hat. Everyone had to wear special costumes and be in charge of props. We focussed on making our scene transitions as seamless as possible so that the whole performance flowed well. The best thing about it all was when we performed the play to our parents - hearing their rapturous applause made us all very happy.

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Trip to the

UAQ Marine Club By Riad Damerji, Grade 4 Arabian Gazelles The dream trip is one where you can work as a team, one where you would have fun and have to push yourself to achieve the feeling that makes you believe you’re invincible! Grade 4 experienced a trip that gave them just that opportunity. From climbing a ladder, so big it seemed like only a giant could achieve reaching the top, to using your survival skills - cooking your own delicious meal! The potential to have a wild adventure and make all your dreams come true at UAQ marine club is high! Unveiling the possibilities of your mindset was tested, your determination and desire to never give up is tested, all in one place. The trip gave me a new perspective of working hard, because it gives you a reward greater than the challenge, an opportunity to create memories with friends, a chance for you to show people your strength and improve your weaknesses in a series of events. In addition, it helps improve your creativity and the way you solve problems, however you must care for people other than yourself because many of the activities rely on teamwork. Many of the challenges are difficult such as The Leap of Faith, a tall tower you must climb to get on a long plank of wood, build up some confidence and jump on a big ball that is dangling on the plank using only a strong rope to hold it. Next, I tried ‘Jacobs ladder’, an enormous ladder you climb that looks like only beasts can, but each step is slightly taller than the other, making the challenge even more difficult as you progress on. This challenge is done with a partner, so you have to help each other in order to get on top. At the marine club, they also have the survival skills task, an activity where you cook and eat your own meal by starting a fire and roasting it. There are some more basic challenges such as canoeing and kayaking. Over all, the UAQ Marine Club is a very fun trip and I highly recommend this to anyone who wants to have an adventure! By Leah Al Khafaji, Grade 4 Arabian Gazelles The Umm Al Quain trip was a spectacular trip. It was such an amazing experience for all of the students in Grade 4 to strengthen their communication and social skills. Grade 4 students were able to take part in multiple activities such as Kayaking, Rock Climbing, Leap of Faith, Survival skills and many more. The UAQ team put children in different groups and each group had an instructor and each child was able to do 3 activities with their group.

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In my group, I did Jacob’s Ladder which were wooden steps that you need to climb, then I did rock climbing, which was very exciting, and finally, I did kayaking which was also very amusing. Whilst doing these activities, I was excited to try something new and be a risk-taker but I also felt a bit nervous because I have never tried activities like that before. The activity that I found a bit difficult is kayaking. It was quite difficult for me to go fast, and steer left and right, but with some perseverance, I got the hang of it. My favorite part of the trip was kayaking because I enjoyed pushing myself and trying hard to get better. Also, on the trip, we had a delicious lunch together and enjoyed spending time with our friends. Students on the trip were risk-takers as they tried many different activities and never gave up. The instructors at the camp were very kind and made sure everyone was safe. In this trip, students also needed to use teamwork because in Jacob’s ladder and rock climbing, students learned how to use a rope to help their peers get down from the activity. And to make things better, even the teachers did the activities! This was a trip that Grade 4 students will never forget and they will always reflect on this day and remember how amazing it was.

By Isabela Burger, Grade 4 Kingfishers I really enjoyed the adventure trip because I got to spend time with my friends and make new ones. I loved the activities that I chose such as Leap of Faith, raft building and more. My favourite activity was Leap of Faith because we got to climb really high and then jump down! Our instructor was really encouraging and enthusiastic because he kept on encouraging students to climb higher. It was very entertaining and I showed perseverance by never giving up and I kept on going until I reached the top. My favourite part of the whole trip was when we ate our snack and lunch with our friends. I made lots of new friends from different classes too!

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Mrs. Ola ElKhatib, Junior School Islamic Teacher What an amazing year for grade 4 Islamic Studies! The students have been at the top of their learning and they demonstrated it through projects, assemblies, poems, assessments, and the Quran competition. Here are some of their contributions. By Leah Alkhfaji – G4 Arabian Gazelles I particularly enjoyed Islamic in grade 4 because we were able to take part in many different activities and work collaboratively with Islamic A students, which has been a great experience. The Islamic topics have been very interesting this year, and we have learnt a variety of them. One topic I am interested in the most is the early call to Islam as we learned about how the Prophet PBUH dealt with difficult situations. We made hands on project demonstrating the cave of Hira where angel Jibreel firstly visited the prophet PBUH and revealed Allah’s first verse to him, “READ IN THE NAME OF YOUR LORD”. By Leen Tahoon – G4 Kingfishers Allah SWT says in the Quran that after difficulty comes easiness. Al-Isra and Al-Miraj is a historical event, which Allah rewarded the Prophet Mohammed PBUH with, to make him happy after the year of sadness when both of his Uncle Abu Talib and beloved wife Khadijah passed away. I like Al-Isra and Al-Miraj project because in our group we got to draw a map and point the destination to the location he was staying in, I also like it because team work is super fun and I had my friends help me with the group. In my opinion, I think that our group was the best group there because we were the only ones that drew and colored.

P O E M By Manha Khan, G4 Owls Mariyah Shaikh, G4 Arabian Gazelles Valentina Mahmood, G4 Arabian Gazelles

Our Holy Month

Ramadan I wake up for Suhoor

I walk out my bedroom door Then I walk into my kitchen I see a ray of Noor (light) I have my little snack And then I go back Excited to fast Hope it is not my last Tired, I go to bed Feeling like a sleepy head Then the sun is up Ramadan is here we come! Excited for the day Can’t wait to pray I would never be the same Though Ramadan called my name

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eagles Grade 5

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Teacher: Ms. Schools I have had the most magnificent year with Eagles 2021 – 2022. They have been a dream to teach, and I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing them grow into independent, expressive, mature, courageous, inquisitive individuals. Their inner motivation, principled behaviour, and willingness to challenge themselves has shined across the school. At the beginning of the year, we welcomed new students to NLCS: Lucia, Cedric, Toscane, Nooria, Raece, Akbar and Ted. Now, they are all true NLCS Dubai students, who have found a transformed love of learning through the IB Curriculum and pastoral support that we provide here at our school. Eagles Class studied six units of inquiry named, ‘Leadership,’ ‘Poverty,’ ‘Ancient Civilizations,’ ‘Science and Technology’ ‘How We Express Ourselves linked to the exhibition’ and ‘Changes.’ This year, and many of them would agree that they enjoyed making their dioramas based on ancient civilizations for their mini-exhibition and working collaboratively for their PYP Exhibition. I was thrilled to be part of the PYP Exhibition this year. I observed the 8-week process evolve where each student started their exhibition with a passion in a subject to the end, where they delivered a visual display and presentation about an art form. Compared to last year, Grade 5 was able to attend school trips again. First, Grade 5 loved the Residential Day trip to Umm Al Quwain Marine Club where they ‘tried themselves out’ at a rope, ground, or water activity. From Jacob’s ladder to canoes, they conquered their fears and learnt new skills. After, we went on a ‘Journey of Opportunity’ to EXPO 2020, where we visited pavilions: Saudi Arabia, Opportunity, and Pakistan. In addition, we had an opportunity to go on a trip to visit another Dubai school to experience their PYP exhibitions. Here, the Eagles were inspired to take their ideas and adapt it to improve their visual presentations. This year, Grade 5 continued to accept the new norm of wearing a mask, following social distancing guidelines, and working at individual desks. Although this was different, they all managed to maintain friendships and connect with others. I have many favourite moments of the year, but my best memory was the Grade 5 Graduation where we were able to look back on our incredible year together. Thank you, students, for laughing at my jokes and bringing joy to my first year in Grade 5. I wish many of you the best for Grade 6 at NLCS or good luck for your new adventures in new schools across the world!

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DESERT HARES Grade 5

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Teacher: Mr. Mullan Working with students in the Grade 5 Desert Hares Class this year has been a thoroughly enjoyable experience. In this, my first class at NLCS Dubai, we have set a very high standard (which will be incredibly difficult to beat). Being a new teacher in school, the beginning of the year was honestly a little intimidating and I knew exactly how many of the new students were feeling in our class, however, we soon found our feet and set off on the exciting journey that we were to experience together. We learned many things along the way in terms of English skills, mathematical concepts, scientific knowledge, but more importantly we learned about each other and even more about ourselves. We learned that some confidence, self-belief, and motivation when added to resilience, determination, and a willingness to challenge yourself, can go a long way in terms of your academic success. Yes, there were some tears along the way, but more importantly there were more smiles and laughter ensuring that our classroom was a happy place to be learning. Throughout our Units of Inquiry, we learned about ancient civilizations and ethical dilemmas; we explored the concept of leadership and about the changes we experience as we grow older. In English, we learned about Shakespeare’s Macbeth and serious environmental changes; in Maths, we learned about algebra, polygons and how to calculate angles; in Science we learned about the heart and the important role it plays in the human body. More importantly, in preparing for our PYP Exhibition, we learned that teamwork, collaboration, independence and responsibility are all key factors when we want to learn something new. There are too many special moments from this year to choose one as a favourite. I will cherish many happy memories of Sports Day, Residential Trips, House Captain Elections, Assemblies and Exhibitions. The Grade 5 Desert Hares will always be a special class when I look back on my teaching career. I sincerely wish all students the very best as they carry on their academic careers in Senior School. Best of luck!

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Hedgehogs Grade 5

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Teacher: Miss Ougham It seems such a long time ago now to think of that very first day of our journey, in September, when 24 eager and excited children rushed into the Hedgehogs’ classroom. Since then, we have been on a fabulous adventure together, making a huge amount of memories: from our amazing day trip to Umm Al Quwain, the Expo trip, along with House Elections, to maths week, World Book Day, participating in assemblies, running societies and so much more! I feel incredibly lucky to have been able to witness the progress the children have made and I have watched in awe how the Hedgehogs have grown together every day, in both confidence and personality. They are natural inquirers in all that they do, embarking on new challenges with ease. They have developed each of the Learner Profiles well, becoming a caring, reflective and knowledgeable class. The Hedgehogs have consistently been resilient in their learning, overwhelming positive and are naturally kind. They provide me with a great deal of comedy and anecdotes in all that they do. The Hedgehogs have shown me that even through some times of adversity that we have still had to deal with this year, we can continue to support each other and be a good friend to those in need. One of my favourite memories of the Hedgehogs class this year was our day visit to Umm Al Quwain. The children challenged themselves to a range of activities, from canoeing, raft building, climbing and survival skills. It was so exciting to spend time outside of the classroom together and show off our risk-taking skills! Additionally, another memorable part of Grade 5 was our spectacular PYP Exhibition. We were so proud of the projects we produced, showing off our collaborative skills and producing amazing work about our subject passions, showing off our arty side! I loved the creativity that shone through each and every one of the class, showing our unique talents and interests in drama, music, animation, fashion, graffiti, and Manga art to name a few. I wish the Hedgehogs class the very best of luck in their future endeavours, and I am so proud of everything that they have achieved this year and feel genuinely lucky to have been their teacher and have had the opportunity to have been able to spend my year with such a wonderful group of children. I know you will have the best of times at Senior School and beyond. Thank you for making my final year at NLCS Dubai so memorable. I will miss each and every one of you very much.

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Ospreys Grade 5

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Teacher: Ms. Lee What a year the Ospreys class have had in Grade Five, watching each and every member develop their skills, their personalities and strive… …to be that best friend, that positive influence and that sensible role model through and through, So here’s the memories I will always hold of each and every one of you… From Mark A and Ishaan, our accomplished and enthusiastic Digital Leadership team, To Debs and Tiana, natural Exhibition leaders, managing, encouraging and keeping their groups keen. To Raiyaan and Bear our descriptive writing kings, brimming with ideas and keeping us gripped, To Ranvir, always impressive in a debate, contributing thoughts and cleverly able to contradict. Next to Asiru who continues to impress us with his natural musical flair, To the sunshining Mira and her ability to spread kindness, consideration, cuddles and care. Of course we have Adam and his love for Maths, announcements and bags bigger than himself, To Iona, her science skills and her knowledge on the Circulatory system and maintaining our health. Then we have Devina and Emily representing a friendship so beautiful and one we can all aim to reach, And of course, our lovely Rainna with her maturity, creativity, and perfectly articulated speech. Also Sophie and Sasha who thoroughly enjoyed our adventurous Umm Al Quwain day, To Seren and Fiona, our STEM week geniuses, flourishing in the Oil Spill task and showing us all the way. Next our sporting superstars; Shiv on the tennis court and Mohammed our future footballer, To Ahad, who always expresses great initiative, ideas and worked brilliantly as our Grade’s council caller. I love Alina’s ability to contribute thoughts and be that best friend whom everyone admires, Finally to Mark P and Rashid, well done for developing a work ethic to which we can all aspire… Ospreys, a huge thank you from me – I have loved being your teacher this year, Well done for all your achievements, our memories, the fun times – let’s give ourselves a cheer! With love Miss Lee x

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PYP Exhibition By Xiaohan Liu, Grade 5 Eagles

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The Grade 5 PYP Exhibition is the busiest time of the year. There are different topics every year and students pick their own interests and passions to write a website, a presentation, or posters and a display board. In the exhibition, the students learn interesting facts and knowledge, not only about their topic but also about the key concepts, teamwork, and the importance of their society (community). The exhibition involved mentor meetings and brainstorming, working collaboratively, and learning new things about ‘The Arts’. The mentor meetings are my favourite part of the week because I love getting together and talking about new inspirations and adding to them. The Exhibition will benefit student studies in Senior School as it develops your presentation, collaborative working skills, it gives you an idea for your future job and how you can work towards it. By Akbar Ali Malik, Grade 5 Eagles The PYP exhibition is a huge end of year event in Grade 5. In the PYP exhibition, we must show our understanding on a real-life issue or topic. It is a great way to use our presentation and teamwork skills. In the PYP exhibition, I learnt how to use my researching skills productively and how to present all of it in an organised and effective way. In addition, the exhibition also includes working in groups to work more productively in a limited time.

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Linking to this, the exhibition involves eight key concepts which are essential factors to complete your research in the exhibition. These concepts are, Form, Function, Causation, Change, Connection, Perspective, Responsibility and Reflection. Personally, my favourite part of the exhibition was working together with classmates, which is a fun change. I also believe that the exhibition will prepare us for our upcoming events in Senior School as it will get us more comfortable at doing tests and provide us with some experience with assessments like the exhibition. To summarise, the PYP exhibition is an exciting way to use all our skills and knowledge that we have acquired in Grade 5 and use it in this one large event. By Aaira Metha, Grade 5 Desert Hares As we come to the e nd of our PYP journey, our final mile stone and one to remember, would be the PYP exhibition. The exhibition is a culmination of our learning journey from the onset of school. It encompasses research, reviews, documentation and various other skill sets that are required to be put together seamlessly. However, this exhibition extends beyond academic growth, and fosters teamwork, collaboration, hard work, sincerity and dedication. The showcase is a compilation of all the knowledge a student has gained and gives them the opportunity to display it in multiple creative ways. The PYP exhibition is a chance like no other to speak passionately about arts and global issues, both being broad topics, that connect personally to students or matter strongly to them. Most importantly, we are required to take our learning outside the school environment and put our thoughts together to pull off this massive project. Organising mentor meetings was a huge part of the exhibition, our mentors helped us brainstorm ideas and get a clear understanding of what our exhibition looked like. The PYP Exhibition was a learning journey for all as it brought out the best in each one of us. By Sofia Viel, Grade 5 Hedgehogs Our PYP Exhibition was a wonderful experience. I had chosen a topic that I had loved but did not know much about. In the end, I learned everything I could know about my topic. Every day, I found something new and was always ready to do my absolute best. I am extremely excited to go to Senior School but at the same time, I will miss my days in Junior School - from G1 to G5. When I started the Exhibition, I was ecstatic and excited to learn. From start to finish, was an adventure and you would discover new things along the way. My favourite part of the experience was sharing my learning with others and teaching people what we have learned. I learnt plenty of new things I had not known about before this topic. Our PYP exhibition has included many different steps to succeed in the exhibition, tuning in, finding out, sorting out, going further, making connections, and finally taking action. I have improved my skills that will help me later in Senior School, such as paraphrasing, note-taking and research skills. My love for this work was truly incredible and I loved every second of the Exhibition. www.nlcsdubai.ae

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Mad

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Mrs Mosses, Teacher of Chemistry This year, Grade 4 and 5 have been let loose in the lab to carry out some Mad Science experiments. They have worked on their writing skills- investigating the colours in different pens using chromatography, and creating secret messages which then catch fire. Red cabbage was used to create an indicator to distinguish between acids and alkalis, and density towers were constructed allowing materials to float in the middle of a mixture. Hand on heart, two of the most enjoyable lessons where the dissection lessons, in which students operated on hearts and eyeballs- not for the faint hearted! Volcanoes have been constructed and erupted, and various potions have been experimented with during the Harry Potter themed Potions lesson.

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Mathematics

SOCIETY

By Myra Sobti and Leah Al Khafaji, Grade 4 and Vedant Chandran, Grade 5

The Mathematics Society at NLCS Dubai is a place where students take part in mathematical discussions and support the learning of all participants. Students who take part in Maths Society develop their investigating skills by participating in numerous tasks such as finding their ‘Golden Number’ using measurement, and solving puzzles like word problems and riddles. At NLCS Maths Society everyone develops their passion for this subject and have the opportunity to think outside of the box. In groups, we work together and are open to everyone’s ideas and share our skills to work out tricky problems. In the Maths society, we have learnt to interpret word problems by pinpointing the key numbers required to solve the equation. We worked extensively on the four basic operations to improve efficiency and accuracy. We also developed an understanding of the Fibonacci sequence and completed tasks to further enhance our learning. The Maths society has been a fun venture which has greatly augmented our understanding of the basics of mathematics. We’ve enjoyed collaborating with each other to help support our learning and have concluded that Math need not be daunting, and it has quickly become one of our favourite subjects! We have greatly enjoyed our year and it has been fun to have leadership over the society and decide what we would like to learn and investigate, depending on our passions.

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Junior School

SCIENCE

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Ms. Naomi Sautter, Grade 3 Teacher and Junior School Science Coordinator STEM Week and the Expo Pavilion House Competition This year there have been many exciting opportunities for the Junior School students to develop their skills as scientists. Throughout the year, I have had the pleasure of seeing so many interesting and engaging experiments in lessons and ECAs. In February, we held our second ever NLCS Dubai STEM week, which was a great success. Each grade chose a global issue to inquire into, discussing the impact they have on our planet. Some of the highlights included exploring different natural disasters in Pre-KG, an inquiry into the rising sea levels in Grade 2, viruses in Grade 3 and an oil spill challenge in Grade 5. At the end of STEM week, students had the opportunity to design their own pavilion for Expo 2020. They thought about what would make their pavilion unique by considering the innovative features it would have and what world issues they would highlight and help to find a solution for. Students designed a range of pavilions, including exploring sustainable fashion, the consequences of not taking care of our planet and how we might protect our world through the use of renewable energy. It was wonderful to see the creativity and passion in the different designs!

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Rebecca Lee, Grade 5 Junior School Class Teacher The GCRs (Grade Council Representatives) have excelled themselves this year and have been a pleasure to facilitate and work with! Using teamwork and initiative, we have accomplished all sorts: from our newly developed and super comfortable Reading Rainforest, to our creative LEGO wall on the ground floor. The GCRs hosted a successful House Competition, the ‘Junior School Trashion Show’, which not only raised the profile of sustainability but was also a great way to host a fun and exciting event which boosted House spirit. In the final term, KG2 held their own GCR election in order to give a select few students the opportunity to experience being part of student council and what the role of a GCR in NLCS Dubai is like. It has been a pleasure to see the GCRs impact our school and the ideas they have had to support the wider environment too. A special shout out to our wonderful GCRs so far: Cleo, Maxwell, Mahi, Kabir, Rania, Tesneem, Sherif, Elizabeth, Zayn, Joshua, Anika, Clint, Valentine, Aashvik, Hattie and Ahad.

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This year has been an extremely exciting and successful year for NLCS PE Staff and students across the school. In particular, we have seen our Aquathlon team grow and progress faster than ever. Aquathlon is a multisport race consisting of continuous run and swim elements. Competitors complete a swim immediately followed by a run, over various distances. Here in Dubai, DASSA set the distances for U11 athletes as 100m swim, followed by a 1.2km run. In February, we restarted the Aquathlon season, for the first time since 2019 and offered to host the first event in Dubai at NLCS. The Aquathlon event was sponsored by Race ME. Race ME are the leading sports event company in the Middle East and organise many triathlon and aquathlon events across the country. They ensure effective and accurate timing is in place, water safety standards are met and have a team of staff who are located around the course to keep all athletes safe, supported and encouraged throughout the race. In February, six schools attended the first Aquathlon at NLCS and with over 120 U11 students participating, it was extremely exciting, competitive and most importantly, fun. Students and staff were briefed before the event about the course and all students were a credit to the Junior Schools in Dubai. This event gave confidence and passion to our students as NLCS placed second place. Within days of the first Aquathlon event finishing, the NLCS PE Department were already excited about planning and hosting the next event. So, in March, Race ME were very kind and offered once again to sponsor the event, and we had more students participating than ever! A staggering 150 U11 students from six schools in Dubai came to NLCS to participate and NLCS secured second place. We would like to extend our congratulations and well done to all students who have participated in the Junior and Senior Aquathlon ECA as well as the events and look forward to the next Aquathlon season. We are excited to announce that we will be expanding Aquathlon competitive provision to the Senior School students in the next academic year. 126

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Message from the Vice Principal Pastoral Care In the blink of an eye, we are at the end of Term 3 of this academic year. Time has passed so extraordinarily quickly that it is important that we step back, pause, and spend time reflecting on what we have achieved together as a community. Our theme of ‘success’ for this year’s Founder’s Day resonates strongly with me as I look back on our time together this year. During this celebration, we united as a whole school to appreciate the strong traditions of our NLCS heritage, as well as our place within the international sphere of education. Students all the way through the school processed with their daffodils, paying homage to our founder Frances Mary Buss and celebrating the true spirit of an NLCS education. One of the poems read during this day was by Ralph Wando Emerson, who depicted success as the impact you have on the world and others, and this is something which has been at the heart of our School this year. We have seen our students and parents give back to others, whether it be through our ‘walk for diabetes’, our pink breast cancer awareness activities or our food donation drive. These events have seen us raise over 65,000 AED combined for the Al Jalila Foundation and the One Billion Meals drive. Students across the grade levels have also completed a number of individual service projects, either for their Service as Action or their CAS community ventures. This truly reflects how we have strived to see beyond ourselves and foster meaningful connections with those around us this year. We have also participated in some wonderful moments celebrating the beauty of all our cultural heritages and the traditions of the UAE. From falcon displays, partaking in cultural activities and creating a whole Senior School UAE ‘flag’ for National Day, to talks on Tanzanian culture and Italian heritage, as well as Korean cello playing and Indian dancing for International Day, we have been able to truly celebrate the rich culture of the country we live in, as well as appreciate the multiple nationalities which makes our school such a special place to be. Our school would not have this sense of belonging for all if it were not for the House system – our family within a family. Whilst in January it felt that restrictions were back in full force, our students and staff have constantly persevered to reinvigorate and reignite our House Spirit. Our new House spaces have provided a focal point for this, as well as our varied and thoroughly enjoyable House competitions. Our House public speaking was outstanding, with clear articulation and strong arguments based on global issues and key beliefs; and having parents able to attend made this evening even more special. The House Music events and Sports Day saw every student in each House involved, reflecting the sense of team work and inclusivity we strive for on the stage and on the field. This House spirit, combined with our ethos of care, courtesy and consideration have been at the heart of all we have done this year as we have flourished and grown together. I would like to thank the pastoral team for all of the love, care and attention they give our students, day in and day out, to really provide them with strong individualised support. It is this depth of support which truly makes NLCS Dubai such a warm, special place to be and ensures we all continue to successfully thrive together. I am sure the school will continue to flourish next year, and beyond.

Frances Powell

Vice Principal Pastoral Care NLCS Dubai

Message from the Vice Principal Curriculum The Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget once said that ‘The principle goal of education in schools should be creating men and women who are capable of doing new things, not simply repeating what other generations have done”. To push beyond simply repeating the successes of past generations, our students need to demonstrate a thirst for knowledge, a desire for deeper understanding and a determination to succeed in the face of adversity. Based upon the evidence I have seen this year, we have a generation of young people who are primed and ready to head out into the world and break through the barriers set by their predecessors. Whether it be showing a love of learning learning in preparing a Nicholson lecture on the contrast between the media portrayal and reality of sharks; having the ability to change perceptions through the creation of conceptually complex works of Art or demonstrating the passion to inspire team mates to give their all in competitive sport, our students have proved that they are capable of true excellence. Alongside the skills that can be seen through these activities has been a level of maturity needed to support personal development. The level at which our students have been able to reflect on their own learning, on their work with our teachers and how we can collectively improve the learning experience for all in the school community, has shone through. The steps taken in bringing back live music and theatre to NLCS Dubai have particularly inspired me this year, with the quality of performances on show across a wide range of dramatic genres at our Roaring 20s evening in November proving a stand out moment of the year. This again demonstrated our students’ desire to push boundaries and perform outside of their comfort zones, showing off a combination of talent and commitment in equal measure. I look forward to our students wowing audiences with a full range of musical and theatrical performances in the new academic year.

Richard Snape

Vice Principal Curriculum NLCS Dubai

Message from the Vice Principal Director of Studies With the academic year drawing to a close, we tend to consider this as a time of endings. The ending of examinations, ending of our time in a grade-level, or for some, the end of our time at NLCS Dubai. Endings are, however, inextricably allied with beginnings. We are all au fait with the old adage, that when one door closes, another opens, although I think Mary Shelley offered a more elegant appraisal in writing, “Everything must have a beginning … and that beginning must be linked to something that went before”. We are all aware of the proud history of NLCS, and how the pioneering spirit of our Founder nurtured the ethos of the education we enjoy today, but as we journey towards our new beginnings, it is worth reflecting on the way in which everything that has been achieved this year will help mould our futures. I am immensely proud of the MYP and DP students who were our first cohort to complete the full cycle of external examinations. Displaying tenacity, focus and drive, they approached this challenging endeavour with purpose and energy. By the time this volume of the yearbook is published, they will have received their results and the ending of the examination cycle will become the beginning of further study at DP level or beyond. To these students I offer my congratulations for their steadfast efforts and my sincere hope that their hard work has been amply rewarded. This year has also marked the return to our full extra-curricular activities programme, and I have been impressed with the manner in which our students have grasped this new beginning. Alongside this, we have seen the return of local trips too, and I particularly enjoyed visiting Expo2020 in Term 2, in perhaps the biggest single school trip we have ever put on! We have now said goodbye to Expo, but of course, here in Dubai we live within one of the most innovative societies on earth, and I look forward with anticipation to visiting the site of Expo as it is repurposed, and achieves its own new beginning. The end of the school year brings a raft of goodbyes too, and as we bid farewell to our Grade 12 students, I wish them every good fortune in the next exciting chapter of their educational journeys. I am certain that the NLCS ethos will live within them as they scatter around the globe pursing their academic passions and bright new beginnings. My most sincere best wishes also go to my colleagues Mrs Navin and Ms Powell, whose relentless pursuit of excellence has been an inspiration for me, and certainly befitting of the illustrious history of NLCS leaders! Indeed, as we look towards our new beginning in September, I can confidently say that we will be stronger for the achievements of this year.

Marco Zambonini Vice Principal Director of Studies NLCS Dubai

HAFEET HOUSE Emma Dawson Assistant Principal, Head of Hafeet House Our Strength is in our Pack. The Hafeet motto is alive and well within the walls of NLCS Dubai. Our wonderful Hafeetians have been true to our core values of Care, Courtesy and Consideration, as they have worked their way through another incredible academic year. With an easing of some Covid-19 restrictions, it has been wonderful to see connections and friendships flourishing across grade levels within Hafeet, and our sense of community evident in all that we do. The new Hafeet House Space has been a fantastic addition to our school building, providing a community space for students to play chess, enjoy a game of scrabble, a quiet corner to dive into their favourite book or just have a catch up with friends. House Competitions We had a strong start to the year with a Hafeet favourite – House Debating. Debating is an area in which Hafeet continue to shine! Detailed research, collegial practice sessions and confident, polished performances were evident throughout. For the third consecutive year we placed 2nd overall, with our strong and fierce junior team coming 1st for the 2nd year in a row! The Spelling Bee saw our first win of the year, with students performing in this high-tension event under pressure. Hafeet performed with confidence and accuracy, and finished victorious! House Music was a fabulous way to round off 2021. Practice sessions together, led by the formidable Elly Son, whipped Hafeet into fine form in preparation for the big performance day. Each of our amazing soloists came in 3rd place in their respective sections. Congratulations Jessica Hawkes. Jaewon Son and Cecilia Haykal. Thank you for your efforts, skills and contributions to Hafeet. The supporting artwork warranted a 1st place finish. Very well done to Agata Roman, Xiyuan Yin and Elissavet Gramma for their incredible and creative work. The House Song was one of the most inspiring and uplifting student performances I have seen in many years, and I was so very proud of each and every Hafeetian. The strength is in our pack was clearly evident throughout rehearsals and on the day of the final performance. A special mention must go to Cecilia Haykal and our fabulous band of Max Ejogo, Viraj Dooa, Aryan Khan, Sami Cheema and Gaspard Cheurlin. Thank you also to Chaeyeon Son for outstanding choreography and leadership throughout. One of my favourite parts of this year has been the reintroduction of more House sports competitions, with teams playing together across grade levels in netball, rounders, football, basketball and enormous challenge of House Endurance. The spirit of Hafeet was shining through on our annual Sports Day, and it was an absolute joy to see students supporting, inspiring and encouraging each other. As our third cohort of Grade 12 are finishing their journey with NLCS Dubai, we wish them well on the next exciting chapter of their adventures, knowing that with the skills, knowledge and compassion we have seen over the past 10 months, they will undoubtedly go on to have a hugely positive impact on the world around them.

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Marta Todd - House Captain Hafeet 2021/22 Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to lead Hafeet. It has been a fantastic chance to learn more about myself, Hafeet and all the students who are part of our family. I have truly enjoyed helping other students and working with others to organise events. The hard work of the Hafeet Leadership Team and the enthusiasm brought by the students in Hafeet, has continued throughout the year and brought us success. It has always been said that Hafeet was much more than a school House, and this year I have had the privilege of gaining insight into what makes us a family. Each and every student gave 110%, whether on the sports field for House Sports Day, or on the stage for House Music and I am humbled by the devotion each student has to our House. This year, we gained much from a return to somewhat normality, and it has been great to engage in the events as we knew them prior to Covid19. Being House Captain has been an incredibly fulfilling role and I hope that I have been able to live up to the high standards set by our predecessors. It has taught me the value of collaboration, as I worked alongside the diligent and tireless students that make up the Hafeet Leadership Team. With the help of Elly, Oliver, Nishka, Cecilia, Mona and Elyes, our house has prospered and it would not be the same without them. Hafeet students have amazed me with their dedication and their exuberance. It saddens me that the time has come for me to leave and I will miss the house and all the students. I wish all the students the best of luck for the future!

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Cecilia Haykal - House Captain Hafeet 2022/23 A House Captain is much more than just a leader; they are a role model who is a pillar of support and guidance for the House. To ably take on this role, one must be experienced in social skills and must understand how to create a tight-knit community that supports one another by guiding their peers to success, motivating them to achieve and teaching them to be resilient during times of hardship or failures. This year NLCS Dubai commences its fifth year of operation and as a founding student, I have had the opportunity to meet and learn from my older peers, adopting their advice and learning from their mistakes. Inclusion, participation, and encouragement are values that I believe are vital to fulfill my role as House Captain. Providing a system of support and creating an environment that is comfortable and nurturing is a priority for me: one that I have experienced from the leaders before me and am ambitious to pass on to my younger peers after me. Hafeet has always been a comfortable and nurturing environment, one in which I could freely express myself and befriend my housemates with little worry about other matters. Being part of Hafeet has become a large part of my academic identity, which has shaped me into the person I am today. Having been provided with the opportunity of being House Captain to give back to the community, in the same manner that my older peers did for me, has allowed me to understand the weight that the role holds in forming connections within your House. I have been able to learn about my House peers and create a familial and comfortable environment. So far, the most exciting and rewarding part of fulfilling the role of House Captain has been taking part in House competitions. Larger competitions such as House Music and Sports Day have brought about a profound sense of community within Hafeet house and have allowed the House to wholeheartedly adopt the Hafeet spirit! I hope it will prove to be a successful one.

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JAIS HOUSE Chris May Assistant Principal, Head of Jais House Another year passes with my wonderful Jais Bears! After winning the House Competition trophy last year, this year has been a year of ‘almosts and nearlys’. Whilst our section of the cabinet may look rather empty, my heart is full of joy and happiness when I think back on the memories we have created as a House this year. For all those who put themselves forward for House competitions, from chess to spelling, from debating to the wonderful public speaking teams and all others, know that I am proud of you. The classic quote from the founder of the modern Olympic Games; Baron Pierre de Coubertin holds so true this year… “The important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part. Just as in life, the aim is not to conquer but to struggle well.” We have fought well; we have done the best we could do and that is all that I ask from Jais. I do want to see more faces represented in House activities and this will be a focus for next year but no matter what, we have believed in ourselves and inspired each other along the way. My highlight is, as always, the House song. The moment when the audience gasped as every member of the house turned their torches on during our rendition of John Legend’s ‘If you’re out there’ did, as some of you know, bring a tear to my eye. This song says everything about our House. It is a call to stand up for one another, to fight for what is right and every day I see our students doing just that. The way in which they ‘treat people with kindness’ (Harry Styles, 2019) inspires me every day. As we move into the 6th year of NLCS Dubai I have two wishes for the future. Firstly, I want everyone in our House to think positively about their contributions to House spirit. It is after a performance on the stage or during Sports Day that I see the excitement and most importantly the pride that we have in our House. However, the trepidation that precedes this is often a barrier to involvement. Let’s throw the fear aside, go for it, try it out, do our best and think not of what we feel others may say. To stand tall and proud and come third or fourth is always better than not standing up at all. My second wish is one that we all can work towards. Prior to covid, we were much smaller than we are now. The increase in numbers within Jais is a wonderful thing but it can lead to members being lost amongst the crowd. It is all of our responsibilities to bring the house ‘together as one’ (Delta Goodrum, 2006). I have had a wonderful, fun year and I hope all of Jais have too. Let’s move forward with a renewed sense of togetherness and aim high in 2022/2023. P.S: We won rounders

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Isabelle Seow - House Captain Jais 2021/22 As some one who’s had a House syste m in all the ir schools, be coming House Captain was the ultimate opportunity to become someone who I had once looked up to. House Captains, in my opinion, are such crucial people within the school: they provide younger students with role models, and give older students opportunities to develop leadership skills. When I found out I was appointed House Captain, I was excited to become the role model I had once looked up to myself. The interview and application process was rigorous and competitive, especially against my classmates and friends. Part of my motivation was to be someone all members of the House felt comfortable enough to approach if they felt they didn’t want to go to a teacher; to be both a leader and a friend. Leadership was also part of that motivation – as the eldest sibling, I have always felt a responsibility and close friendship to those younger than me. Over the years at NLCS and my previous schools, I always found myself entertaining younger friends and students, and loved that they felt comfortable enough to interact with me on the same level they might with their own peers their age. Approaching older students can be daunting, so I was always glad they were happy to talk with me. Giving up the role of House Captain was a bittersweet ending. On the one hand, I was glad to give up my role so I could focus on the final DP exams and pass on the torch to the next student. On the other hand, it felt like I hadn’t done all the House competitions for my time as House Captain because of the way the role switches in Term 2 instead of Term 3 at the end of the year. Being able to lead the House and grow the House spirit as the leader of Jais was an incredible opportunity, although quite odd due to the way so many things changed because of COVID restrictions.

My favourite House competitions have been House Music and Sports Day. Although I know my friends have varying opinions of my two favourites, I was especially excited to be the one in charge this year for these competitions. I love that they get the whole house involved (although there are always those who are reluctant), and everyone always makes the most memories by the end even if the process was arduous and demanding. Honourable mentions go to Franco’s flowing locks and Jiwoo’s incredible tambourine choreography in House Music, and Jason for his uniting of the Senior School on Sports Day. After giving up the role of House Captain and completing the DP with graduation just around the corner, I’m excited to see how this role has helped me and how it may help me in the future in whatever I may end up doing, and wherever that might take me. I hope that I’ve fulfilled my role as House Captain and that I was as good of a role model as I hoped to be. www.nlcsdubai.ae

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Josie Recabarren Ramirez - House Captain Jais 2022/23 Being in the school for 5 years now, it has allowed me to understand the House spirit and especially what my House, Jais, stands for. Having previous positions within the House has made me create long-lasting connections with all those within my house and I hope to continue doing so with new members. I want to be able to recreate the journey that I have had all these years and re-invigorate our House spirit. As the new House Captain, I am ready to guide Jais on a new journey of connection with the vertical form system hopefully being instilled this coming academic year. I will be encouraging the values that previous House Captains have instilled in me and take their individual forms of leadership on, to take our House to the next level. I am excited to be able to connect with the younger grades in big competitions like House Music and House Drama, which are my personal favorites, and show everyone what Jais can do when we all come together and collaborate. What does the House system mean to me? For me, it has meant having a constant support group; not only from the teachers in Jais but also the students, being able to celebrate every member’s qualities .Having such a wide range of House competitions is what makes the House system really special. Creating a comfortable environment within our House has helped me get out of my comfort zone and try myself out, which is something I hope to imprint in all my House members. I am excited to not only bring my ideas into fruition but allow everyone in the House to contribute while doing so. Having one of the strongest leadership teams and talented House members we have ever had, I believe we can guide each other hand-in-hand to victory.

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JAVI HOUSE Lee Garrett Assistant Principal, Head of Javi House Three words. What – a – year! To say we hit the ground running is an understatement. The House Competition schedule got off to an incredible start, winning the House Quiz, House Debate and House Football. This for me, really highlighted Javian character and our motto ‘Everything is Possible”. And it really is. In September, we welcomed new students, new staff and of course new parents to the Javi family whilst settling in to our new, House space. I really valued the optimism, energy and caring nature of the community coming in as the new Head of House. The Javi Leadership have been a huge asset. Their organisation, focus, collaboration and honesty is to be applauded. The have really supported me by arranging teams, communicating with the House members, and applying all their skill, knowledge and experience with verve and tireless effort and I would like to publicly thank House Captain Alice Duncan, Vice Captain Luisa Goncalves, Sports Captain Sohaan Shammana, Vice Sports Captain Ramzi Tabanji, Assistant House Captain Mehdi Touhami and Student Council representatives, Illyes Zeraiki and Tian Haas. A highlight event was House Debating. With so many loyal students eager to represent their House, the selected Javi senior and junior teams worked hard researching, planning, and presenting fierce debates which saw Mehdi, Ilyes and Humaria on stage in the senior final against Yibir and the junior team, Syrah, Ismail and Ahad against a strong Hafeet team. Both teams were amazing to watch and I was delighted see the Debate Trophy raised with the red ribbons. A great achievement. Then came the first major competition, House Music. I was incredibly proud of the effort and achievement that we displayed on stage. I know that for quite a few students they were very much well-outside their comfort zone. But in true Javi style, everybody pulled together and performed Katy Perry’s, Roar. Without your energy, dedication and musical talents, we would not have performed as well as we did.

The next major competition was Sports day. Another proud moment to watch the sheer grit and determination of all Javians give it their all and fight for each individual position. There were some brilliant performances both on the track and on the field. Overall, the girl’s team came second on the track and joint third on the field events whilst the boys came first on the track and first on the field events, with the relay titles also going to Javi. This meant a nail-biting result’s announcement. But by 6 points, Javi were announced the winners for 2022 and House Captain Alice, deservedly holding the trophy high with Sports Captain, Sohaan proudly in support. 142

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The strength and solidarity of the House has been amazing. Students contributing their strengths, be it in singing, playing an instrument, drawing, publicly speaking or simply being kind, caring and courteous to others. This has certainly been a testing year with restrictions and school systems forced to adapt in response to the pandemic but the ease in which you have taken the constant change in your stride has been remarkable and has allowed NLCS Dubai to regain some of the traditions, enrichment and activities. As we end one year ready for the next, we have to say farewell to some Javians, staff as well as students who will be leaving NLCS Dubai to start a new chapter of their life. We wish you the very best of luck and ask you continue to believe that everything is possible. Use your extensive skills and knowledge and aim to make a difference wherever you are. Finally, I wish the very best of luck to the Grade 12 students who will be receiving their Diploma results and the Grade 10 students who will be receiving their MYP results in the Summer. This is a very exciting time of their life and a significant landmark in their education. For all of our returning staff and students, have a great summer vacation, rest, recover and lets look forward to an even better year.

Alice Duncan - House Captain Javi 2021/22 What a whirlwind of a year this has been for us all. Through the stresses of finishing my time at NLCS, the annual House competition has proven to still stand as my favourite part of the school year, as it was when I first started my school career. Javi, an embodiment of what it means to be a family, has proven time and time again that great accomplishments come from being unite d, supportive of one another, and believing in the phrase “everything is possible”. As I pass on the role of House Captain, I would like to thank the many people who have stood by me, such as the Javi leadership team who deserve their own thank you for all their hard work and dedication over the school year. Their leadership shone the brightest during House Sports Day, when Javi was able to take victory, and I will never forget the feeling of being surrounded by such an astounding group of students who have put so much time into making Javi the best it can be. I would like to take the time to thank Mr Garrett for being a huge supporter of myself and my role of House Captain. Thank you for all the time that you have dedicated to making Javi a caring and encouraging environment through your inclusivity and kindness for every Javian. www.nlcsdubai.ae 143

Sohaan Shamanna - House Captain Javi 2022/23 It’s an honour to represent the Javi house as its House Captain. Being chosen as a House Captain is a big responsibility as younger students look up to you as a role model. It is therefore important to have good leadership and organization skills. Having joined the school three years ago, the Javi community made me feel instantly at home in the beginning and it soon became my second family. In the past two years I have been the Sports Captain, however due to the Corona Virus, there weren’t as many House competitions with everyone being in quarantine and online school. With the ease of Covid regulations this year and with most of the House Competition being back again, I am more than excited to be working together with a great Javi leadership team and able to win most of the competitions together as a team. I am definitely looking forward to House Sports Day, as we can return to cheering our House from the bleachers, creating that atmosphere which was absent from in the previous year due to Covid. Additionally, I am also looking forward to House Music where the entire House comes together to perform and sing a particular song. Hopefully, we can get all the parents and the entire senior school to fit in the PAC this year to witness the hard work that each House puts in for the competition. Overall, I have been given a big responsibility to lead Javi and I am very grateful to be given this opportunity. The leadership team and I aim to win as many House Competitions as possible with Javi and with the mindset of “everything is possible” I am sure we are able to achieve this.

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YIBIR HOUSE Laura Dunn Assistant Principal, Head of Yibir House What a wonderful year it has been for Yibir! I have been astounded and humbled by the passion, commitment, and outright enthusiasm that all members of this House have demonstrated. The excitement for House events has been palpable, and the Yibir spirit has been well and truly alive during house competitions. I have been overjoyed to see students and staff unite in a concerted effort to bring the House Cup home to Yibir. As I write this, we are still in first place on the leaderboard. Hopefully we haven’t been pipped to the post in the intervening time. One of the shining lights from this year has to be winning House Music! Special thanks goes to the student leadership team for supporting the whole-House song; in particular thank you to Sarah Turner’s musical direction, as well as Suha Kidwai and Hayat Alibhai’s choreography. The House song, a mash-up of contemporary classics was a roaring success and I thank each and every member of Yibir for their contribution to this. I cannot mention House Music without praising our solo and ensemble musicians. Well done to Rheanna Kaur, Zihan Liu, and Zihao Ji respectively for their individual contributions to this resoundingly Yibir victory! Congratulations to the Grade 6 and 7 students who produced our outstanding, collaborative artwork. House competitions are a team effort, and House Music goes to show that we really are Ready For Anything. Public Speaking was a further highlight. It was a pleasure to welcome parents back to the PAC so that we could all share in the excitement and joy of another Yibir victory. Your passion, charisma, and oratory eloquence was an inspiration. Well done to all of those involved, including the unsung heroes of the night – the speechwriters and researchers.

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As a further reminder of Yibir’s prowess in House competitions, we secured first-place positions in House Chess, House Badminton, and the House Endurance Challenge. I am proud of you all. Well done to the outgoing student leadership team, with particular thanks to Suha Kidwai as House Captain. We welcome Emilia Herrera as the new House Captain and offer congratulations to the newly appointed Big 4 students. Well done to our Yibir students Alya Lootah, Layla Mehanna, and Asa Mittal for securing leading positions of responsibility within the Senior School. I am sure that each of you will continue to be outstanding role models and ambassadors of both Yibir and NLCS Dubai. Finally, a big welcome to the new staff and students who joined Yibir this year. It has been a pleasure getting to know all of you. Sadly, the end of a school year also brings some departures; it is with heartfelt thanks that we say farewell to Mrs Duarte, Mrs Zhu, and Ms Jones. We also say goodbye to the Grade 12 students, you are an inspiration to us all. We wish you every success for your next steps.

Suha Kidwai - House Captain Yibir 2021/22 I’ve been truly fortunate, not only to have experienced such privilege in being part of Yibir, but in being able to lead it. I truly believe the House system is one of the best things about NLCS – my House permeates almost every memory I have of my first years here. I have enjoyed much, but without a doubt, my favourite House Competition this year has been House Public Speaking – it was perhaps the only House Competition where I was given the opportunity to spend extended periods of time with younger students and watch them drastically improve over a short period of time; I was truly astounded by the abilities of each individual contributing to our collective effort. Upon reflection, I think it was this which made it my absolute favourite event – seeing young people throw themselves so wholeheartedly into such daunting unfamiliarity cannot help but inspire a sense of happiness without those watching. But it is somewhat bittersweet; there is most certainly an age at which most cease participating with such confidence; an ease, or comfort, that fails to supersede the impacts of ‘growing up’ – but I find it imperative to mention that Yibirians, above all others, seem to continue trying themselves out. I recognise how fortunate I have been to have been part of Yibir, and I wish every NLCS student to find a paralleled sense of community, belonging, and friendship within their House. www.nlcsdubai.ae

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Emilia Herrera - House Captain Yibir 2022/23 The moment I entered NLCS, what most excited me was the House system and spirit that our school had. Being in other international schools before, I was aware of what it meant to be in a House, but NLCS embraces this by breaking boundaries between grades and coming together as one, something I had not experienced before. People in the sixth form were still friends with people moving into Senior School, all because they were brought together by their House. As soon as the applications for the positions were announced, I was determined to apply, as being a leader of something that I admired so much felt like a way of giving back to my House in a sense. As a part of my application, I made sure to mention that I wanted to make sure everything was coordinated to let all the students enjoy being a part of the House. In all my memories of being in Yibir, I was never worried about my role in an activity, or where I had to be. Rather, I only have good memories. Being a part of Yibir was always something outside of my academics that I could enjoy my time with and not have to worry about. I hope as a leader I can bring back the house spirit that was lost during the pandemic, and encourage students to try themselves out, whether it is in something that they excel at and want to contribute to, or something that they have never tried before and would like to have a go at. I am excited to get to know more people in my House due to my position and to collaborate with other leaders in the House such as Sports and Vice House captains. I am extremely excited as to what is to come, especially events where we are able to plan events altogether and have a chance to participate as one group. I hope that as the year progresses, members of Yibir will be able to connect more and strengthen their House spirit!

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Message from the Assistant Principal, Head of Sixth Form It would surely be remiss of me not to start by congratulating the Class of 2021 for their stellar Diploma Programme results attained at the end of the last academic year. Achieving the highest average points score in the region is no mean feat and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the students and their teachers who overcame all of the challenges that the pandemic could throw at them. Whilst I thought that by the time I would be writing this year’s entry, the ‘p-word’ might have been one that existed more in the past tense rather than the present. However, we are getting closer to that time and this year can perhaps be more aptly described by some other ‘p words’ in the form of progress and purpose. We have certainly seen much progress in the Sixth Form this year. For a start we actually have been able to have Grade 11 and Grade 12 together in one space rather than separated. The Class of 2022 have applied themselves to the challenge at hand, working through their internal assessments and most recently completing their final examinations. Students actually being able to take examinations in-person? Now that is progress! We are also excited to see where the Class of 2022 will progress to next and having secured some superb university offers from all over the world, we know that wherever they choose to go, the next chapter will be an exciting one for them all. As for Grade 11, they have approached the year with a keen sense of purpose. They are a determined bunch who are ambitious not just for themselves but for the whole school community. Adapting to the pace of Sixth Form life, they have they have stepped into the shoes of their predecessors and are driving forward further progress and growth. Whether that be in their positions as the Big 4, House Captains, Society and Committee Chairs or just in how they have acted as senior students, they have shown the everyday leadership that makes a difference and are role models for all. And what of the future? If there is one thing we can all take away from the last few years it is that the road to success is not always a smooth one. There will always be unexpected obstacles and challenges to overcome. However, the Sixth Form have demonstrated that with the right attitude, camaraderie and togetherness, we can always keep progressing forward.

Alistair Wood Assistant Principal Head of Sixth Form NLCS Dubai

2021 - 2022 Hayat Alibhai Being a part of the former Big 3 has been one of the most gratifying, rewarding and worthwhile experiences. Indulging in the stories of the now Big 4 has taken me back to the overwhelming emotions of joy I felt when first elected. A slightly younger me with a tenacious desire to leave an impact on my school. And that, I believe, I have most certainly achieved. For me, this impact was never in bold declarations or tremendous changes. Albeit worthy aims, my aim was more subtle, a daily difference. My impact was in knowing that struggling students now had the outlet to seek help if they so wished to because of my work in Sadiq (NLCS’s student friendship listening service). It was in knowing that our school was just that much more aware of mental health and well-being because of my work in the Well-being Committee. But ultimately, my goal with Big 3 was a personal one. Reflecting on my journey at NLCS, and with the end of my high-school career in sight, I ponder on if students viewed me as the role model I had when first joining the school. Or if they were inspired by a speech I delivered, joined a program I was part of, or implemented a healthy habit because of my advocation. And that was my personal goal with Big 3 - to be a role model. One that does not teach students how to score higher on a test, but one that embodies resilience, persistence and most importantly, compassion. Those values are my lasting impact. Franco Kanaan Having been given the opportunity to represent the NLCS community as a member of the Big 3 has been an immense honour, only made greater by the significance of leadership in our community here in NLCS Dubai. To me, this role was far greater that the external image it portrayed. Being given a position in the Big 3 has been an opportunity to represent my peers, the student body and the wider school community; with all of our aims being to suit the best intentions of the School and the members of its community. For this reason, I hope that myself and the rest of the Big 3 have been able to create a sense of inclusion and togetherness, despite the largely undesirable situation the School has continued to face across the last year, with a glimmer of hope being seen through the gradual return to normality. To me, the enjoyability of my role as part of the Big 3 has largely been amplified by the part I’ve been able to play in the transition back to the old normal by leading myriad events which were reintroduced this year, whether it be the ’12 Days of NLCS’, which made an exciting and impressive return, or the continuous role we played in the weekly assembly, playing some sort of part in nearly every single one this year. 152 YEAR BOOK 2021-22

It’s definitely safe to say that the Big 3 has been a large contributor to how my final year in school has played out and so, I would like to wish the new Big 4: Alya, Layla, Asa and Ilyes, the best of luck as they begin to take on the role; and finally, as a message to any aspiring future members or or applicants, make sure you don’t let any nerves and external pressure draw you away from applying for the role; always try yourself out and who knows, one day you might be the one writing a message for the yearbook. Jaehyun Jung As the end of the IB, as well as Grade 12, approaches, I looked back and thought what has made my diploma process more special and interesting. To that, I can confidently say that becoming a member of the Big 3 has played a significant part. To start off, becoming a Big 3 member did not mean that my school life was going to be easier. It meant more responsibility, hardship at times, and most importantly growth. It has never occurred to me as strongly how important it was to manage and organise my life until I had to juggle between keeping up with my academics, other hobbies, getting enough rest as well as performing my duties as a leader of this community. It has helped me grow into a much more mature student as well as a person. Something interesting about the whole experience was what I enjoyed the most and this changed all the time. At the beginning, it was going on stage every week and seeing the Senior School (it was very heartwarming, especially after the pandemic). But as time went by, I loved just being the bridge between students and teachers. Telling the teachers what the students want and relaying their opinion back to the students was like holding key information that no one knows, and it was a joy sharing both sides view and interacting with both groups. Finally, looking back now, what I treasure the most was the difficulties: additional tasks, responsibilities, expectations and meeting them. While challenging at first, it was a firsthand experience of what being a leader was and also, what the “real world” was going to be like. It was a period of my life that I will treasure and remember as I head on to the new chapter of my life.

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Nadya Keeney It is April of 2021 – you are excited about your new role as the Global Awareness Ambassador, already cultivating new ideas and having plans in place for the upcoming year. As a new member of the Big 4, you find yourself organizing the graduation diplomas for the Class of 2021 on their big day. You envision yourself in that same cap and gown, only wearing your own smile, walking down the stage to shake Mr. Monaghan’s hand – oh how four years have passed so quickly. May approaches and you find that life has other plans for you. This time, you aren’t just moving houses, but entire countries, and in the middle of your Diploma Program journey. Not so perfect timing. I was set on graduating from NLCS Dubai. Being there since the inception of the school, it holds a special place in my heart. My life took a huge detour from all the plans I had, thinking they were one-hundred percent certain. I was soon to realize that none of the crying or begging my parents to stay could save me; I simply had to surrender any future memories in Dubai to new ones in Boston. A year later, I’m proud to say that I’m earnestly happy that I’ve moved. Despite the move adding plenty of challenges to my Senior year, I’ve met so many amazing people who I’ve made unforgettable memories with. I was still able to utilize my passion for leadership and global awareness in the new chapter of my life by creating a business. We offer products that simultaneously promote well-being and education, streamlining current affairs worldwide and raising awareness, also donating profits towards important causes. My experience has definitely made me more adaptable and NLCS Dubai has taught me that learning isn’t stagnant, hence, floors not ceilings.

2022 - 2023 Alya Lootah, Senior Student When NLCS Dubai first opened its doors in 2017, I walked through them, timid, yet confident that my life was going to change for the better. 5 years later I can confirm that I have become a version of myself that I never knew I could be. Being part of the Big 4 is one of my greatest achievements so far. Through the role of Wellbeing Awareness Ambassador, I aim to prioritise our school’s successes in an efficient manner for long-lasting results, mentally and physically, as I am a true believer in the fact that success can only happen with a balanced lifestyle. 154

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As a result of the KHDA Wellbeing Consensus, I have worked closely with the Wellbeing Committee to compartmentalise into 3 major areas of improvement targeting different grades, creating an enriching environment that values wellbeing through regular events planned for the new academic year. Whilst the Committee advocates and raises awareness, our peer-mentoring listening service, Sadiq, will equip its mentors with the designated safeguarding training, with a universal First Aid Mental Health Certificate, to ensure that all students are able to be mentored to an exceptional standard. As the famous NLCS quote goes: “Much is expected from those to whom much is given”. It is an honour to be an active member of such an extraordinary school, where our efforts will go down in history. We are all part of the NLCS family, every voice is heard to ensure that all our individual experiences are as notable as can be. Every individual is unique in our school community; each is integral to form a part of the greater whole, enabling our community to continue curating a culture of diversity, inclusivity, and equity. 5 years of soaring the skies with NLCS Dubai. Limitless and fearless, ready to take on the world.

Asa Mittal When I applied for a position as part of the Big 4 at NLCS Dubai I asked myself: “Why? Why run for the Big 4?” The answer was that I wanted to give back from to the school community from which I have gained so much. I am extremely grateful for the connections and friendships. I am grateful for the numerous opportunities that have been made available for me. I am grateful for the academic and personal growth that has characterized my time here. We have a saying in the NLCS family “much is expected of those to whom much is given.” I truly believe that NLCS Dubai has given me, as it gives all its students, a tremendous amount and I wanted to begin fulfilling what is “expected of me” by serving others. The Big 4 is the ideal role for this as it comes with the ability to leave a lasting impact on the school community. I chose the role of Global Awareness Ambassador within the Big 4. While I believe that all the roles are important, I was most drawn to this one. The 21st century is a wonderful time to be alive, modern technology has made life easier and more enjoyable than ever. We live in a globalized world that is becoming increasingly interconnected; www.nlcsdubai.ae

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never have humans travelled and migrated in such numbers. Dubai epitomizes this new world as it is a melting pot of different cultures. Our school is no different, boasting 54 nationalities! This is one of our greatest strengths and it is important for us to develop our cultural awareness and celebrate the incredible diversity within the school community. This is something I hope to continue and enhance. However, all the advancements that we have seen over the last hundred years have come at a cost: the decay of our environment. Climate change and the exploitation of earth’s natural resources are grave issues that we must solve. As Global Awareness Ambassador, I have the opportunity to work with the Eco-Committee to limit our environmental footprint and help us do our part to help. In addition to the Eco-Committee, I work with the Charity Committee which represents another sphere whose importance is growing in today’s world. Poverty is decreasing and the quality-of-life people are experiencing is increasing. Wealth in the world is increasing yet so is the inequality. At NLCS Dubai we need to do our part in helping those less fortunate and giving back to others outside the school community. In reflection, I am honoured to have been chosen as a member of the Big 4 this year. I will work beside Alya, Layla and Ilyes in striving to improve the experience of everyone at NLCS Dubai. Layla Mehanna I will always remember the vivid memory I have of four years ago, when I first entered the doors of NLCS Dubai for my first day of school. Standing awkwardly in the centre of the atrium, gawking at how big I thought the school was, I was definitely feeling very small, amid faces I had never seen before. Looking back, I realise how far the school has managed to encourage my peers and I to simply ‘try ourselves out’. The Big 4 position is no easy task, but that it what makes it so enjoyable. Being a Big 4 member means that we all need to work together to give a voice to students during our weekly meetings with the Senior staff. House events, student feedback and ways to improve the school are all topics that are explored during our meetings. Each one of us chose a different role – I chose to focus on improving societies. A society fair will take place at the beginning of the next academic year, where all societies will be displaying the different activities they offer, with students being able to either join pre-existing or new societies, apply for a leadership position, or create their own new society. Additionally, a debate club will be set up for sixth formers and we will expand it next year to allow members from other year groups to join. The Big 4 members and I are quite different. We don’t always share the same interests, backgrounds, or opinions. However, what ties us together is a drive to do our best, a love of learning, and wanting to give back to our communities. We want to make sure that the students entering the doors of NLCS also feel ambitious and excited to try themselves out. I look forward to what this year has to offer. Ilyes Zeraiki I am really pleased to be acting as Enrichment Ambassador for the upcoming school year. For me, the enrichment side of the school is one of the most notable things about NLCS Dubai. The school offers a wide variety of ways to extend yourself outside of the classroom, whether that be by joining the football team or becoming a regular member of the astronomy club. For the upcoming school year, I hope to drive the ECA programme by supporting students’ involvement in all things extracurricular. I am also hoping to increase engagement with ECAs to give the student body increasing opportunities to explore their interests and pursue an area they feel passionate about. Currently, I am working with Mrs. Abery on the Careers Fair, providing Grade 9 students with the opportunity to get them to understand about various kinds of careers and more specifically, that the route to a profession may not always be a straight line as one might assume. I have gotten in contact with a few interesting adults that will get students exposed to a range of professions.

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Additionally, I have worked with students around the school to assist them in setting up initiatives in areas they were interested in. Among these initiatives are the Student Media and Tech team, who play a key role in the technical side of supporting assemblies and plays. Furthermore, due to popular demand, the Debate Club will soon be reintroduced to allow students to develop their public speaking and critical thinking skills. The Student Council is also working towards creating House Merchandise! Exciting! I also plan on playing a supporting role in the Model United Nations conference near the end of term. Because of online learning and the social distancing restrictions that followed, the school was unable to host a conference. However, discussing international issues in a conference-style manner is arguably one of the more enjoyable areas of MUN, so the team is eager to host another conference. Indeed, there is a lot of potential in the enrichment of the school. There are a multitude of opportunities to get involved, and I would personally highly recommend that you do so in the coming school year.

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Graduation

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Alumni

Rameen Ali, Grade 9 Hafeet

Students at NLCS Dubai foster very close relationships with each other when they are at school, but these relationships do not end with Graduation. We have a strong alumni network and when students leave, they become ‘Old North Londoners’. Here, Rameen Ali, Grade 9 Hafeet, talks to two of our past students and asks them to reflect on their time at NLCS Dubai. Sam Lee 2017 – 2021 Studying International Relations at London School of Economics. 1. What was the most memorable element during your education in NLCS Dubai? The people in NLCS Dubai were the best element of the school; it really was the teachers and students that supported me throughout my whole school journey. Before joining NLCS Dubai in 2017, I studied in South Korea my whole life. Everything was new to me, speaking English, the international environment, and the IB system. Therefore, I couldn’t survive without the support of my peers and teachers. It was definitely the people there. 2. What were your favourite classes and why? My favourite classes were English and Geography, which were all very interesting to me. Especially, compared to South Korean English education, which is focused on mainly grammar and things that have a solid answer. However, in NLCS Dubai, English is focused more on personal interpretation and analysis, the variety made learning languages fascinating. I really enjoyed Geography because I’m currently studying International Relations and have always been interested in Politics and Human Geography. Both these subjects include learning about various topics I’m interested in and listening to different perspectives. 3. What extracurricular activities did you participate in? How did your involvement in these activities help you in post-college life? Including Societies, they were a really big part in terms of gaining confidence in my English and in general being confident to try new things. It was definitely a challenge for me. As well as participating in Drama productions and talking in front of people, and going on stage, was a big part which is also essential for university life and beyond. Those two really helped me a lot. 4. Which one factor sets NLCS apart from other schools? It’s a unique thing, whe re e ve ryone challe nge s you, rathe r than compe ting against one anothe r you’re collaborating. It’s the environment NLCS Dubai creates. You become competitive and everyone around you is competitive and works hard. It’s a competitive environment, and you also help each other and create a positive atmosphere. 5. Do you feel that NLCS prepared you for university and the real world? Yes, and No. The school taught me how to try new things, to be a risk-taker which we talk about all the time in NLCS Dubai, and to not be afraid to fail, which helps for university and beyond. However, not everyone is as supportive as the people in NLCS Dubai when you come out into the real world. 6. If you could change one decision that you made regarding your education, what would it be? It would be studying History. I didn’t study History in all my education, instead; I chose Economics and Geography. However, I would keep both those subjects along with History. At the same time coming to University, History is 162

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such an important part of International Relations, therefore I’m lacking that element, compared to some of my peers. It would have been a good choice. 7. Tell us about the moment or that incident which inspired you the most or which changed your life. When I did my first ever school production, the first NLCS School production. I auditioned when I didn’t speak much English, nor did I do Drama. Mrs. Durston at the time gave me a part in the show. I still remember the play being about juries (12 Angry Men). There were lots of words I couldn’t pronounce and didn’t know. My focus wasn’t on acting or staging, but memorizing my lines and getting the words right. It was interesting they gave me the part, which made me realize what kind of school NLCS Dubai was. That was a really special moment where I got to try something new. 8. What advice do you have for students, opting to join the school and our current North Londoners? It’s always difficult to give advice, as I’m still learning. I would say, try new things, always try new things, and make the best of the opportunities NLCS Dubai gives you. There are so many societies and ECAs, guest speakers, and Nicholson lectures. As well as the teachers are there to help and are passionate and experts in their field. Anastasia Embodoklis 2017 – 2020 1. What was the most memorable element during your education in NLCS Dubai? Founder's Day, because it’s unique to NLCS, and it's an event where you feel proud to be a student of NLCS, and everyone, all the students and staff come together. As well as the societies that take place, there are always so many activities and new things to try. 2. What were your favourite classes and why? English was one of my favourites, which is strange because I was never good at it. It was my favourite class because it was extremely organized and structured. It was easy to track your progress, get feedback, and improve. I loved the sense of accomplishment., that I got every lesson, and I could see my improvement every week. I also loved Biology with Mrs. Murphy. Her classes were incredibly interactive and organized, and she was extremely kind and would make jokes. You would always remember what she taught you and kept you engaged and concentrated. Those were my least favourite subjects, which became my favourite subjects because of Mrs. Monaghan and Mrs. Murphy. 3. What extracurricular activities did you participate in? How did your involvement in these activities help you in post-college life? I was in MUN and did Debating, along with founding and chairing the Current Affairs society. They developed my skills through public speaking and taught me not to be hard on myself and that you learn through failure and get to make mistakes in a safe environment. I’m in Law at Durham University and there are lots of students at university, and extracurricular activities make it easier to meet people. You get to discuss experiences. It’s a nice icebreaker and a good way to make friends. 4. Which one factor sets NLCS apart from other schools? When I was a student at NLCS, we were a small school, and every teacher knew every student. There wasn’t a member of staff you didn’t know. Also, there is a feeling of friendliness and a welcoming atmosphere. I was very comfortable participating with my ideas, and comfortable making mistakes. It’s an environment where you can dare to do stuff, and no one judges you in a negative way. www.nlcsdubai.ae

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5. Do you feel that NLCS prepared you for university and the real world? Yes, but in a way that people wouldn’t expect. The 3 C’s (Care, courtesy, and consideration) are it is important to be kind to people around you. Good always happens when you are kind. Also, being kind to yourself and treating yourself the way you treat others. Along with the independent element helps you become kind and ambitious. There are no boundaries if you work hard. 6. If you could change one decision that you made regarding your education, what would it be? In terms of my whole experience at school, I would not do many things differently now. I wouldn’t change them, because if I hadn’t made mistakes or overcomplicated something, stressed over the little things I wouldn’t have learned. So, I would not change anything. 7. Tell us about the moment or that incident which inspired you the most or which changed your life. In terms of academic life, I always wanted to achieve good grades. I would create a goal and achieve it. It taught me that with hard work you can do anything, even with subjects I wasn’t good at. Life is full of challenges and difficulties. If you have confidence in yourself that you can achieve them, there is nothing to fear. However, a moment in my life was when we received our grades for diplomas. It was below my expectations and predicted grades. However, it does not dictate your smartness or define you. Rejection and failure are not bad things. If you can learn from them, it will be your biggest strength. Lots of people fail, and what proves if you will succeed is how you will face that failure. If you take it as a learning opportunity, you will move forward. 8. What advice do you have for students, opting to join the school and our current North Londoners? Firstly, the IB is not as hard as everyone says it is. If you choose your subjects correctly, and don’t overcomplicate things, it becomes easy. You have to be consistent and stay concentrated from the start. Listen to the teacher. They know better and want you to do your best. The teachers tell you what you need to know, students need to listen and apply. Choose subjects which you like and what you’re good at, not what makes you look smart. At the end of the day, all universities are good. You’re already in such an excellent school, you are in the top ten percent of students in the world. Also: Don’t be scared, be nice to everyone and try your hardest. Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. It is important to be physically and mentally healthy. That should be your priority. Everything will come. Being disappointed is normal. Take the opportunity to grow as a person and don’t let anything stop you from achieving your full potential. Enzo Kekligian 2017 – 2020 1. What was the most memorable element during your education in NLCS Dubai? It definitely has to be my first art exhibition in NLCS, when I was in grade 11. It was just an amazing journey I had to go through with Mrs. Michaels. Especially, after all the effort and support she gave me, to help me with my artwork and showcase it. It was the best experience I had. I value that, and it’s a path I would like to continue. 2. What were your favourite classes and why? I enjoyed Art and Design because I could make stuff with my hands, something a lot of people don’t value in education, which is also important for development. As well as being able to push yourself to create something that goes beyond writing and calculations. I also really like Spanish and English because of my teachers. They were the ones who made it enjoyable. They are not the subjects that I would naturally be interested in, but I became fond of them and found a way to enjoy things I didn’t enjoy. 164

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3. What extracurricular activities did you participate in? How did your involvement in these activities help you in post-college life? I participated in the basketball team. I enjoyed the teamwork which helped me, and I developed my skills in basketball. It was fun to be competitive and break the barrier of meeting new people and de-stressing. I was also a part of the photography club with Mrs. Michaels. I got to experience photography in ways I thought I never could. This helped me with what I do now in my free time. I continue to work on my skills, and develop and add on to them. 4. Which one factor sets NLCS apart from other schools? At the end of the day, it’s the teachers. Without the teachers, there’s no school. Even though I had many disagreements with teachers, it took me a lot to grow academically and take things seriously. It wouldn’t have been for the patience and support they gave me. I wouldn’t have gotten into the university I got into and learned to take life projects more seriously. 5. Do you feel that NLCS prepared you for university and the real world? Yes, my first year in university was a lot easier than the last years in NLCS. NLCS prepares you, and the first year of college lets you have lots of space. I found myself enjoying university as you work hard throughout the IB. So many things happen at the same time. NLCS helped in terms of being rigorous. I am studying three fields that I like. International relations, international business, and fine arts, but at the same time, I started working a lot on music, and taking courses. Studying six different subjects for the diploma helped to make me versatile. 6. If you could change one decision that you made regarding your education, what would it be? The Academics in NLCS were amazing, and it’s tough to say anything could be improved. I wanted to be able to practice more sports and have other things besides academics being taken seriously at the same level. 7. Tell us about the moment or that incident which inspired you the most or which changed your life. On the Nepal trip, I did with the school; I was curious and eager to learn about a new culture and people around me. Reflecting on my CAS, surprisingly sparked an idea that I would like to study international relations. After a year in college, I became more interested. The amazing experiences I had and actively reflecting on them really inspired me. 8. What advice do you have for students, opting to join the school and our current North Londoners? Start to care super early. Don’t leave it at the last minute. The more importance you give to academics, the better it is. No matter what, always reach out to your teachers in regards to what you want to achieve. That was the only reason I achieved what I did. If you follow teachers’ advice and path, you’re most likely to achieve what you aim to. Be extremely open to trying different things. That’s the best thing that will prepare you. NLCS has allowed my ideas to turn into a reality, in a way. I was never told ‘no’ or given another option. If you have an idea you want to do on the side, which could involve the school. Talk to a teacher you like, Head of House, anyone. Those things will differentiate you when applying for college. That’s probably why I got into the universities I did, with ideas I had and got to do them. Life is not always about studying – give time to socializing, and maintaining a balance. Well-being is important for you to succeed.

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Rameen Ali, Grade 9 Hafeet This academic year, in Grade 9, we studied various texts and themes. At the beginning of the year, we read Shakespeare’s Macbeth and read about his burning ambition, which influenced events in the play. Additionally, we analysed the complex and twisted characters of Lady Macbeth and the weird sisters. Through a film adaptation, we focused on cinematography and compared the film version with the original play. Moreover, we then read a message-based play, An Inspector Calls by J. B. Priestley, and his ideas about how socialism and capitalism reflect today's society. Towards the end of the term, we explored the theme of education and how it has evolved over time. We learnt this through Charles Dickens' Hard Times and a television series 'Educating Yorkshire'. Both of these helped us understand the various perspectives of education. This enabled us to formulate whether education must remain the same or if we can modify it as we move into the future. Furthermore, this in-depth analysis allowed us to reflect on the role of teachers in society and how every lesson may be a battle. This year, English has proven to be very enriching and has been successful in providing insight on topics relevant to today's society. Arthur Bremaud, Grade 7 Hafeet This year, in our English lessons we have learned about a lot of different and stimulating things that were really fun. We have had a lot of group work, essays and descriptive writing without ever neglecting the fun and excitement that we love in our English lessons. This year we have learnt about the Globe Theatre, Shakespeare’s play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, utopias and dystopias, “Alice in Wonderland”, the book “Animal Farm” by George Orwell, and poetry about different cultures. Throughout the year, our English lessons have helped us become more critical about politics, history and the world itself. We have looked at dystopias and listened to Mr Monaghan give his wonderful assembly about dystopian literature being his favourite out of all. We have also worked on re-writing the beginning of “Alice in Wonderland”, where we discussed a lot with our peers to find different ideas and technics we might use in our chapter. Emilia Herrera , Grade 11 Yibir Starting IB Language and Literature, we have studied varied content, from William Shakespeare’s “Taming of the Shrew” and Tennessee Williams's “A Streetcar Named Desire”, to Liza Donnelly's political cartoons. We have explored the importance of gender, feminism, and much more through these texts, making interesting links between them too. I have particularly enjoyed IB English so far as we are studying relevant topics in the world today, as well as having more liberty in the work that we produce. Audrey Wulff, Grade 6 Javi This year I found English to be one of my favourite subjects. It was challenging but very fun. Over the year we read poems (such as ‘Ode to a Nightingale’ by John Keats) and explored motifs in the novel “The Secret of Nightingale Wood”. I particularly enjoyed reading the book! I loved writing essays and creative writing as I got to explore and use new techniques. Thank you to all of the English teachers for such a wonderful experience.

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MATHEMATICS

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One of the main highlights for the Mathematics department this year has been the overall performance in the UKMT Maths Challenges. Across the cohorts that took part, there were increases in the number of gold, silver and bronze awards, far exceeding last year’s results. Incredibly, we had two students in Grade 7 taking part in the Olympiad due to their impressive scores. There is undoubtedly an increased level of competitiveness amongst students as the challenges provide a unique opportunity to ‘flex their muscles’ through solving interesting problems. The Mathematics Society this year has been emblematic for the subject at NLCS Dubai. It has held sessions every week involving Maths Challenge preparations, planning Maths Week activities, as well as covering topics such as the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, applications of Mathematics and why √2 is Mr Suarez’s favourite number. Maths Soc also lead sessions linking Economics and Mathematics through a collaboration with the Economics Soc. The turnout has been excellent and we hope the next set of Maths Soc leaders can build on this. Another highlight for Maths Soc was arranging a Senior Societies session led by Dr Alberto, a Professor of Probability and Mathematical Statistics at NYU Abu Dhabi, who talked to students about percolation. It was extremely interesting learning from someone of Dr Alberto's caliber, and students had the chance to learn a lot from him and understand what studying Mathematics is like at university level. While the talk was challenging, Dr Alberto still managed to present it in a way that would make mathematics both simple to understand and enjoyable. It was also highly rewarding as it left students feeling rewarded for having engaged in complex math that they would not normally be exposed to. Maths Week was another success, with students taking part in interesting activities such as an escape room! The Maths Soc gave an assembly on the relevance and implications of mathematics in our everyday setting, and how it can link to an individual’s everyday life. Mr Suarez’s assembly had an unusual twist discussing how Fibonacci ‘owned the suit’. The Mathematics department and Maths Soc have thoroughly enjoyed enriching students and sharing our passion for the subject. It has been a privilege to encourage a love for problem solving, as well as open young people's minds to the breadth and depth of mathematics

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This year we celebrated our love for all things ‘ Science’ during Science week. The theme for this year was Growth. During the senior school assembly, students were taken back to 1968, and were showed a prediction made by Mrs Murphy’s father on what the world would be like in 100 years. Many of his ideas it seems have come to fruition, such as, changing the TV station with a button, and school being online. This led to a discussion about what the future of science might look like for this generation. Over the course of the week students were immersed in activities planned to capture their interest and promote a love of this subject. Students were wowed by ‘explosive Chemistry’ demonstrations, they participated in a Science break out room, witnessed the nerve racking finale of a bridge building competition and competed against teachers to reassemble our human body model. Our wonderful medical society led younger students during a heart dissection helping to spark their passion for medical science. All in all - a fantastic week.

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Jayne Vickers, Head of MFL As another busy and exciting year reaches its end on the MFL corridor, it is time to reflect on everything that we have achieved. Special credit goes to the students who sat MYP and DP exams in May. Grade 10 took the first eAssessments for MYP Language Acquisition and Grade 12 experienced the new and eagerly awaited listening component for DP, along with the usual speaking, reading and writing exams. Well done to our students and teachers for successfully navigating the way through to the final exams! In the meantime, Grades 6-9 and Grade 11 made wonderful progress on their respective phases and programmes, studying a wide variety of topics and contexts. New units this year focused on Personal and Cultural Expression as well as Globalization and Sustainability. Outside of the classroom, students have engaged in 22 different language ECAs across Junior School and Senior School. Highlights from MFL ECAs have been ‘A Trip around the Spanish world’, ‘French fairy tales’, ‘Mandarin reading club for natives’ and the student-led ‘German club’. The Languages Society have created a blog, publishing articles in different languages. The Society also ran a series of lunch time sessions, the most popular ones being on Asian languages – from Korean to Japanese and Mandarin. Congratulations to Emilia and Shirley for their successful leadership of the Society this year. Although we have many memories from lesson time and ECAs, the highlight of the year has to be MFL subject week. The theme for the week was the idea of things being ‘lost in translation’ from one language to another. I launched the week with an assembly about the history of translation and the importance of guarding against the overuse of online translation. The Languages Society continued on the theme in the student led assembly, providing fascinating examples of ‘untranslatable words’, such as the German word ‘Schadenfreude’, the French verb ‘Flâner’ and the Spanish word ‘Sobremesa’. The Society also shared some fun foreign language tongue twisters that our teachers had tried to perfect across the week. During Senior Societies, Mrs. Kanyerezi gave an inspirational lecture based on her Master’s research about ‘ways to prevent student anxiety during spontaneous use of target language’. She provided vital tips to the students on how to manage anxiety before a speaking assessment. 172

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At lunchtime during MFL week, students signed up for a range of activities, including the most popular: Karaoke in Spanish (led by Ms. Peralta). A range of students from different grades came together to sing and practise songs from famous Spanish films. We could hear the music all along the MFL corridor: great practice for speaking skills! Other sessions included puzzles in German, making bookmarks in Mandarin – where students learned about the character traits of each of the animals in the Chinese Zodiac. A quiz on the French-speaking world helped students to develop important knowledge about life in Frenchspeaking countries. There was also a relaxing meditation session in French. In form time during MFL week, students held activities to teach their mother tongue to their classmates. It was pleasing to see the students learning more about each other and sharing their language and culture. A reminder that we are such a diverse and linguistically rich community. Thank you to all the students and teachers for another wonderful year in MFL! Gracias, Merci, Xiè Xiè, Danke.

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The Arabic Department Rasha El Said - Head of Arabic In the Arabic department, we are eager to expand the portfolio of the Arabic language at NLCS by reflecting on our practices and inventing new techniques for getting the most out of our students. This was accomplished through extracurricular activities. We do not just focus on Arabic in the classroom; we also make sure it grows outside of the classroom: Arabic society, trips, and the reading competition. Starting with the Arabic society, the members prepared homework surgery sessions, where they invited students who find their Arabic homework challenging and might need some extra help. The sessions were full of positive vibes and the members were enthusiastic to help their colleagues from different grades. They also prepared a competition across the school for the best cover page for the Arabic magazine. The Arabic society also shared their knowledge with Grade 1 by giving them Arabic lessons. Since reading was a major priority from last year, Arabic A students assisted Arabic B beginners in improving their reading skills by reading stories and books focusing on pronunciation and intonation. We also held an Arabic competition to help Arabic A students improve their reading skills, while also boosting their enthusiasm on reading. This completion allowed students to read a range of books in a given time. Then the teachers conducted an interview with the students asking them about the books they read, challenging their understanding and knowledge about the book. Students in Grade 7 enjoyed a trip to The Frame, where they learned about the city’s development and growth. This was in line with the theme of “cities,” which then allowed the students to contrast the differences between old and modern Dubai. The students were impressed with the great development that Dubai has been through in such a short space of time. Furthermore, a highlight that should not be forgotten during the Arabic week celebration, the Grade 11 and 12 led assembly. They organized an interesting presentation focused on Arabic culture, as well as a quiz for teachers culture, with the winner announced at the end of the assembly.

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The Geography Department

Charlotte Spurway - Head of Geography The Geography Department were delighted to venture back out into the field this academic year and embark in various physical and human investigations around the Dubai landscape. Grade 8 compared the similarities and differences in Bur Dubai and Downtown, to investigate the socio-economic and environmental urban inequalities that exist between different locations within one city. Following this, Grade 7 successfully undertook coastal fieldwork at three beach locations to evaluate the success of hard and soft coastal engineering management techniques, from measuring the effectiveness of wooden groynes at Kite beach, rock armour at Ness Ness beach and sea walls and beach nourishment at La Mer beach. Grade 6 unfortunately were caught in the temporary governmental restrictions so ventured into the Virtual world to investigate the impact of tourism along the JBR and Marina Walk. And finally, Grade 9,10 and 11 Geographers visited Wadi Showka to look at how channel characteristics changed from upstream to downstream. Geography Subject Week kicked off Term 3 with an introduction from Mr Monaghan, followed by various tutor time activities, with the most enjoyable being the Migration decision making task. Students were provided with a range of scenarios which force many refugees and legal migrants to make each year in order to survive natural hazards, conflict or economic recession. The Geography Society have delivered many exciting sessions throughout the year, from Treasure Hunts, Sporcle and travel writing competitions. Ms Ward lead a fantastic Nicholson Lecture enlightening students on the economy of small products and the impact of footloose economies. While Mr May’s evaluated the sustainable urban planning projects within current and future developments within Dubai and the UAE. And finally, The GeogSoc Team delivered an inspirational and thought-provoking assembly debating why Climate Change shouldn’t be our only concern, and that poverty and the effects of urbanisation will continue to limit resources, exceed carrying capacity and pressure and ever-growing population.

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History Day Helena Wilson - Head of History Arguably, the best day of the school year was History dress up day for our annual History subject week. To a great deal of screams, squeals and whoops, grade 6-8 strutted their historical costumes on the catwalk. The leads of the History Society, Amber and Layla, led an event to be proud of. There were a multitude of fantastic costumes: Shakespeare, Napoleon, Rasputin, Coco Chanel, 1920s gangsters, Emilia Earhart to name a few. The winners were Zeenaldeen in his Egyptian pharaoh costume, Elyes as a plague doctor and Chanel as MarieAntoinette. Even the History team were fittingly dressed as suffragettes, Martin Luther and Rosie the Riveter. The best dressed teacher Mrs. Keep and Mr. Duncan, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Monaghan as the revered Frances Mary Buss and her brother, Septimus. We have loved getting back to our classrooms this year and using our historical displays to help the students’ learning. This year Grade 9 have looked at the history of Civil Rights in the USA and drawn links to the modern day. They created roadmaps to assess the events and the change and continuity that occurred. Grade 11 are looking at the Bolshevik Revolution and assessing if it was a coup d’etat. G7 have presented on key pioneers in the industrial period and done some wonderful presentations on these figures.

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Ethan Lee, Grade 10 I wanted to distort the image to show that the beauty in nature is not solely found in perfection but also in distortion and the ‘perfect imperfections’ in nature. When I first started the Art PCUP, I thought that it would be a simple write up and a quick painting. What I didn’t know was that it would be a project that required commitment and diligence. I was given the statement of inquiry; “The observation of nature leads to creative expression” and the Global Context; “personal and cultural expression” and started the PCUP slightly unsure of what I needed to do. However, I was guided by my teacher, Mr. Abery, and over time, I started to understand how each annotation and experimental artwork built towards the final piece. I began by researching various artists and pieces that connected to nature. I then decided to focus on a multitude of perspectives and ideas linking to water and its properties. I created a range of studies investigating different media and methods of observation. For my final piece, I wanted to distort the image to show that the beauty in nature is not solely found in perfection but also in distortion and the ‘perfect imperfections’ in nature. The project was challenging in its entirety, but I learnt so many skills throughout this enjoyable experience. 180

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Ethan Lee - Grade 10

Grade 7

Asiya Radmard - Grade 9

Clay Heads - Grade 8

Shuhan Zhou - Grade 6

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D E S ign

Mehdi Chahdi Touhami and Ramzi Tabanji, Grade 10 During our 2nd term of Grade 10, we had the responsibility of completing our MYP5 Design portfolio. This was a tough and demanding process, and we faced a lot of tight deadlines and challenging feedback. As stressful as it was, it was an enjoyable and beneficial experience. While we were pushed to manage our time and respond to the feedback to the best of our ability; it allowed the members of the class to also collaborate and work together to help each other meet those deadlines. This brought all of us closer together in and out of class. Design was demanding, but upon reflection, we all had an incredible experience.

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Khadija Lavers and Lucia Hadati, Grade 10 After completing this rigorous process of the design PCUP, we have accomplished numerous achievements, such as the final creation of our products and the complex process that came with it. We all came to realize that, in order to successfully and effectively complete this project, we had to be consistent, organized and driven all throughout the various stages of the design process. Although we struggled initially in meeting the deadlines, we persevered, and the outcome was above our previous expectations. This project allowed us to express our cultures for others to learn, which was by far the most rewarding aspect of the PCUP.

Grade 7

Cardboard Chair Project - Grade 8

Chiara Kekligian - Grade 9

Jiacheng Ying - Grade 10

Neda Davis - Grade 6

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A slapstick musical comedy, Bugsy Malone follows the rivalry between two half-witted street gangs and the washed up, well-intentioned, one-time boxer who steps in to take control of Fat Sam’s gang and give Dandy Dan and his boys what they’ve got coming. Students from Grade 6 to Grade 9 have rehearsed tirelessly to ensure that this performance still goes on, even after ECAs were cancelled due to covid restrictions. Showgirls, boxers, gangsters and down-and-outs all trying to make a living and survive the great depression!

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g n i r a o TheR

Grade 9 and 10 Performance Evening This evocative era conjures up a most colourful and eclectic period, with so many iconic artistic movements and trends all condensed within 15 years or so. Just think of Stravinsky, Bessie Smith, Louis Armstrong, Charlie Chaplin’s Silent Movies, Salvador Dali, Dadaism, Metropolis, Hot House Jazz, gangsters and prohibition, Melodrama….. the list goes on. Students delved into this era, researching the social, historical, cultural and political contexts. Scripted and devised performances were showcased in a carousel promenade theatre experience highlighting significant moments from this fascinating era. The Perils of Pauline (Paul King) Amber Razzaq, Hams Abouelela, Hannah Khan, Hasan Manji, Omar Sayed, Isaac Dankwa-Fielding-Piper A melodrama based on the adventures of the silent movie heroine. Will Pauline be able to stop the President being assassinated by the dastardly Black Hand Gang? Together with the help of the dashing Algernon, Pauline must survive a number of dangerous obstacles in her path to ensure the safety of the Capital. A fast paced, slapstick melodramatic performance which enables students the opportunity to explore stock characters and exaggeration with the added challenge of performing in an outdoor theatre. Who Was That Lady I Saw You With Last Night? (Paul King) Abdulwahab Saggaf, Zainab Virani, Maryam Merchant, Saleh Alomair, Ibrahim Sharaf Henry Bentley is determined to enjoy a romantic glass of bubbles with his secretary Harriet Nash. However, Henry’s wife Clementine is also keen to share a romantic glass of bubbles with Harriet’s husband Arthur. Will they be found out or will the Porter help them to cover their tracks? This quick paced English farce explored exaggerated characterisation and the importance of comic timing. 186

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Grade 9 Do You Want To Be In My Gang? Rameen Ali, Ali Amro, Hamad Ali, Ria Kulkarni, Lexy Crawford, Imaad Bandali, Suhail Bandali, Vincent Govaert, Tiago Carvalho Mrs. Durston’s class decided to research notorious gangsters from New York and Chicago in the 1920’s. Each student developed a character based on a real-life member of the North Side Gang or the Five Point Gang. Prohibition Heists Tayma Makhlouf, Maxima Bruno Ferreira, Edoardo Colello, Kayvan Davis, Maria Rodriguez Denisenko, Kamil Fechkeur, Kaavish Gathani, Eva Joudrey, Michael Khazaei, Viola Maga, Yashoda Nanani, Sannat Odhrani, Svarn Odhrani, Krish Sharma, Safa Yesilhark, Karim Youssef. Mrs. MacDonald’s class explored the structure of melodramatic stories in the 1920’s picking themes such as prohibition, robberies and heists. Chicago Avdesh Salecha, Salayla Elmasry, Tala Tayfour, Humaira Moola, Nuha Kidwai, Naba Asrar, Frederick Graewert, Miguel Meaney, Henry Stobwasser, Max Ejogo, Aarav Kalwani, Rheanna Kaur, Oliver Nielsen. Set in the legendary city during the roaring “jazz hot” 20s, Chicago tells the story of two rival vaudevillian murderesses locked up in Cook County Jail. Grade 10 selected key scenes to explore this renowned musical.

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MUSIC

Senior School

Howard Wong, Head of Music This academic year has been something of a watershed year for Music at NLCS Dubai. With the gradual relaxation of covid restrictions, Music has been busy rebuilding over the past year and it is exciting to see some sense of normality beginning to finally immerge. Our instrumental programme, which had been hugely reduced by the pandemic, has seen significant growth throughout this year in terms of numbers. Encouragingly, there has been quite a surge in terms students starting instruments from the younger year groups. We now have 14 peripatetic instrumental teachers in the school, providing tuition of practically every instrument except the Vuvuzela to our students. Throughout the year, we have had numerous recitals as well as masterclasses for instrumentalists. In addition, a number of students have returned to ABRSM and Trinity examinations.

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The return of singing was most keenly felt during the start of the Festive season at the end of November where Junior Choir gave us ample heartily sung seasonal repertoire. It was simply wonderful to hear singing in the building again. More singing took place at the invitation of the Arts Club, Dubai where a choir of Grade 5 students sang carols at the Summer Garden of ICD Brookfield Place. This was our first “outside” engagement for quite some time and it was greeted with enthusiasm by the audience.

Instrumental ensembles met again for the first time, too, after a long hiatus. The combined Senior and Junior orchestra, with so much repertoire to catch up on, performed an eclectic mix during the Winter Concert, ranging from works by Henry VIII to Shostakovich to the film composer, Hans Zimmer. In addition, the orchestra also accompanied the audience who heartily sang secular carols together for the first time in two years. String Group performed Holst suites and it was a delight to see students of different year groups finally permitted to perform alongside each other again in an ensemble setting. In the Spring Term, Rock and Pop was given some much-needed airing in a workshops-styled performance whilst the music of the 1920s and 1930s was given a well-deserved platform in a Soiree which left the audience tapping their feet to classics such as “It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing!” With the return of Founder’s Day Celebrations, the Orchestra played a prominent role during the service, accompanying the singing of the School Songs as well as performing some Handel pieces especially arranged for the occasion. It was so gratifying to hear Frances Mary Buss’s favorite aria, “Where’er you walk” performed by our entire community again. The school year ends with a miscellany of music ranging from Bach to Tchaikovsky alongside modern classics in our Summer Concert, bringing our musical year to a triumphant finale. It has been such a pleasure to see students return to music making with so much enthusiasm and their hard work during this year will serve as a wonderful foundation for the continuing development of Music at NLCS Dubai.

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ECONOMICS

Angus Graham - Head of Economics This has been a scary, exciting and rewarding year in Economics, in equal parts. We had a feeling early on that we were going to be putting the students forward for, wait for it, actual proper real pen and paper examinations. The examinations have happened and it is now over to the IB markers and we will see how the students got on when the results are released on July 6th. We are hoping for a nice summer surprise! This year saw our first Economics subject week in NLCS Dubai. We are often thought of as a subject ‘for the older kids’ and ostensibly we are, for the Grade 11s and 12s, the IB years. So, it was great to be able to give our wonderful subject some more exposure to the wider school. The highlight of the Economics subject week for me was the Great Debate between the Grade 11s and the Grade 12s, in which they jousted over the motion, ‘This house believes that environmental sustainability is a hindrance to economic growth’. The Grade 12 team of Hassan, Suha and Puneet narrowly won out over the Grade 11 Team of Layla, Ilyes and Aadi. Cecilia and Lucas deserve special mention for their excellent stewardship of the Economics Society through the stormy waters of Covid. They are in the midst of a collaboration with the Mathematics Society and blog articles are being written and will soon be published on the relationship between Mathematics and Economics. I cannot help but mention the strong presence of Economics in History Week. Mr Wood was dressed up as John Maynard Keynes and I came as Friedrich Hayek. Essentially, we were trying to represent two diametrically opposing schools of economic thought. And it also gave us the opportunity to see what we would look like with moustaches! 190

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It has been a great year in Economics and we look forward to our students trying themselves out even more next year. Indeed, we finish the year on a high as I have just sent off our submissions for the NLCS inter-schools Economics book review competition. We have entries from Asa, Ilyes, Yasmina, Lucas and Aadi on books by Tim Harford, Joseph Stiglitz and Niall Ferguson among others. It’s great to be part of the NLCS community and to have these opportunities.

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Grade 10 students did not fail to impress again this year with an array of outstanding projects. The Personal Project is a compulsory core component of the MYP curriculum. Students must develop a project linked to a personal interest of theirs. This is a wonderful opportunity to develop their ATL skills such as research skills, thinking skills, self-management skills, communication and social skills.

Salayla Elmasry My learning goal for the Personal Project was to learn more about the correlation between the development of Feminism throughout the 20th century and how such changes were represented in women’s fashion. Furthermore, in achieving the pre-existing learning goal, I also hope to develop my artistic abilities. Through completing this project, I hope to visually show how fashion has changed over the past century, and subsequently, the relationship fashion has with Feminism.

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Frederick Graewert The learning goal I wanted to achieve was to widen my knowledge on the entire area of youth sports training and muscular-skeletal growth, to understand how professional sports trainers justify the relevance of working out. I also aimed to develop effective communication skills of my own, improve my motivational and training skills, and learn how to best target exercises geared towards different body types and needs in a safe and engaging manner. Filippa Schwarz My primary learning goal for the Personal Project was to expand my knowledge about the oceans, while focusing on the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea in greater depth. Creating a book about the oceans furthermore presented me with an excellent opportunity to improve my skills in creating art digitally.

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Services As Action

Laura Kanyerezi, Service as Action Coordinator It was fantastic to start the academic year with our first ever NLCS Dubai Service Week. Students spent time developing detailed, appropriate and thoughtful proposals for Service as Action. Each student reflected carefully on the community that they intended to serve and the need within it. Next, it was time to plan how to address the need, the type of service to engage in (research, advocacy, indirect, or direct), and to consider how they would record evidence of their service.

Over the course of the year, our students served the local, national and global community in a plethora of ways. Students took action both in school - through ECAs, Committees, Societies, assemblies, form times, Houses and school tours – and out of school. Well done to each of you for meeting one of our school aims “to develop an outward looking, internationally minded community that promotes respect and compassion, service to others, and active, positive participation in society and the wider world”.

Emma Connolly (Grade 6) during her Beach Cleaning

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Ipek Kucukerdogan (Grade 10) designed and printed her own range of language fact sheets to promote intercultural understanding

Building a water filtration plant in Rwanda Alexis Schwarz (Grade 10)

An investigative mind map from Mona Van den Abeele’s (Grade 8 Community Project) process journal

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Extra-Curricular Activities and

Trips

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Miss N Woodroffe, Director of ECAs This year NLCS ECA programme came back to life as the Covid restrictions eased through the academic year. This provided much excitement as the plentiful opportunities unfolded, particularly for the mixed grade ECAs. Collaboration was the name of the game as sports teams recommenced training for DASSA fixtures and Galas in Term 2; students prepared for the THIMUN or DIAMUN Model United Nations Conference and the Grade 6–9 Bugsy performance involving a cast of over 100 keen actors, dancers and singers returned to rehearsals. It was also wonderful to welcome back our external providers to NLCS Dubai, with the addition of the new lessons in climbing and rugby creating much excitement and a stir. It was a delight to see students re-embrace the opportunities for learning outside the classroom and achieving a broad and balanced NLCS education, with just under 4000 weekly sign-ups across a programme of 390 ECAs in term 3. Well done to Grade 7 who choose an average of four ECAs each. We can firmly say, for the academic year 2021-2022, we moved beyond Covid to brighter times as students reconnected with each other and their passions. Onwards and upwards! Additionally, highlights from the trips programme included 32 students from Grade 9 and Grade 10 who trekked in the Kalba mountains to achieve their Duke of Edinburgh International Bronze Award Adventurous Journey. Lastly with the EXPO 2020 in the MENA region, over 600 lucky students from First School through to Sixth Form experienced the various educational journeys, such as Universe in Motion, Sustainable Planet and World of Opportunities in Term 2. Next year NLCS Dubai can look forward to the return of residential trips too!

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Astronomy C L U B

5 . 4 . 3 . 2 . 1 - Lift off! The NLCS Dubai Astronomy Club ECA launched into existence at the beginning of Term 1 in 2021. It’s captain - Mr Duncan, its crew - many enthusiastic Grade 6 and 7 students, its destination - yet to be charted. It has been a fun year! The lunchtime sessions have seen a variety of activities. As well as explaining what Astronomy is (and isn’t), Mr Duncan has provided tips on observing the night sky with the naked eye and on the types of telescopes that we use. Astronomy in the news has been discussed and there have been plenty of burning questions from club members to answer. Mr Duncan introduced the students to the planetarium software, Stellarium, which enables students to travel in time and space to observe the night sky from any part of our planet. They have simulated the UAE night sky to see what planets are visible at the moment (Venus, Jupiter, Mars and Saturn in the early morning sky at the time of writing) and they have visited the South Pole to watch the Sun travel around the horizon, without setting, in the Southern Hemisphere summer. The highlight, however, was the student-led presentations. Enthusiastic students have researched and presented talks on fascinating topics of their choice. Marie began the series discussing the NASA Mercury missions and the Space Race of the 60s. Maurya, Anika, and Youssef then presented a series of individual Cosmology presentations on Black holes, the Multiverse and Wormholes respectively. Each presenter was knowledgeable and when asked tricky questions from the audience, they were able to give confident answers. Mr Duncan was happy to join the discussion, often by talking about Science Fiction and its relationship to these ideas – always looking for a chance to talk Star Trek or Star Wars! With an eye towards the future, the Astronomy Club will be doing some more student presentations and will use these to produce a digital magazine. Mr Duncan will giving more observational tips, astronomy activities and discussing “Space News”. Next year there is a possibility of trips to venues, such as the Al Thuraya Astronomy Center in Dubai or the Al Sadeem observatory in Abu Dhabi. Exciting times! This has been one small step for an ECA but one giant leap for NLCS Dubai fans of astronomy!

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COMMITTEE

Sadene Qaddumi, Grade 8 Jais Every little thing you do matters. It’s a cliché for a reason. If you can help just a little and do your part for the environment, it helps the world become a better place. We’ve created a list of simple things and habits to adapt in your own life to help the environment. Try your best to do what you can. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Use bars of soap/shampoo/conditioner instead of the bottles Get Reusable water bottles Eat fewer animal products Reusable straws Repurpose clothes into rags and cloths or even dog/cat toys Stop buying from fast fashion brands ▶ Brands like: Shein, Forever 21, H&M, Topshop, Zara, etc. Recycle Reuse plastic Use containers instead of plastic bags Biodegradable dog/cat poo bags Reuse jars Clean your email ▶ It takes a lot of energy to keep all your files. (You can research more about this if you are interested in this) Try mints instead of gum Gum might have some plastic in it Use compostable trash bags

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Donate your old clothes There are high piles of old clothes in some places of the world Turn your lights off Use eco-friendly detergent/sunscreen Try solar panels/solar lights/LED lights Buy consciously Silicone reusable ziplock bag Rags or napkins instead of paper towels/napkins Reusable cotton pads DIY cleaning products ▶ It’s easy and fun to make your own cleaning products and it’s better for the environment Take shorter showers Hang-dry clothes Avoid clothes made from polyester Try biking/walking/carpooling Reuse plastic produce bags ▶ If you must use a plastic produce bag, keep it so you can reuse it Buy local (farmers market/flea market) ▶ I find that buying from a farmers market taste better as well. Getting an eco friendly phone case. ▶ It doesn’t break as easily and so you don’t have to keep throwing broken, plastic phone cases Cook more ▶ Take out usually comes in boxes/plastic. Pick up trash Don’t wash your clothes if they aren’t dirty If you go to the grocery store, and, for instance, there is a plastic jar filled with something and a glass jar filled with the same thing. Choose the glass jar so you can reuse it. Zero waste beauty products Bamboo toothbrushes and eco-friendly toothpaste Avoid single-serve snacks Regrow vegetables Avoid plastic jewellery Set a goal of eco-friendly things you want to do by the end of this year/month/week Educate yourself

What impact can this have? Telling someone not to do something for the sake of not doing it isn't going to be effective at all. Explanations are important. Fast Fashion are brands that over-produce their clothing. They make so much of it that the majority is sent to waste. Over half isn't even sold! Instead, they go to landfills and as a result you get piles of clothing that litter the planet and end up a waste of resources. This is also why it's better to donate or repurpose your old clothing. Your computer uses energy. The more storage you’re using, the more energy it takes. Things like cleaning your email helps reduce the amount of energy your computer uses. Turn your lights off. It's self-explanatory. If you find yourself in a situation without a reusable bag and you need a plastic one. Keep the plastic one, you can reuse that too. Buy local because local food doesn't have to travel as far to arrive on your plate, so it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to improving our carbon footprint. www.nlcsdubai.ae

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LITERARY

Society Literary Society is an academic society focused on furthering a passion for literature within the school community. It connects like-minded individuals who want to extend themselves and develop their skills. Every week a literary text is chosen by one of the members of the society, which is analyzed and uses as a stimulus to discuss important global issues. Texts can range from poems to song lyrics. The society helps members improve their analytical skills and learn from each other. It is a fantastic opportunity for older students to hone their craft and for younger students to gain experience. Texts often discuss or raise questions about wider issues within the world that can be further explored. Members enjoy the meaningful discussions that can spring from the text and listening to the opinions of others. Over the past year, the society has talked about colonialization and ‘cancel’ culture when discussing Rudyard Kipling’s poem If, as well as the threat that gene editing can pose to society when analyzing an extract from Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro. Literary Society continues to provide students with opportunities to learn and grow.

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Model Making C L U B

Mr Tomasik, Teacher of History A new ECA for the 2021-22 academic year has been the Grade 6 and Grade 7 Historical Model Building ECA. Students have had the opportunity to recreate the past in physical form through carefully putting together and painting scale models of aircraft, tanks, ships and even dinosaurs. There has been a wonderfully collaborative atmosphere as students have combined their love of the past with their artistic talents...along with a lot of patience!

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Medical Society From university visits and guest speakers, to student-led presentations and fun medical activities, the Medical Society has had an eventful year despite lingering Covid-19 restrictions. In the first two terms of the year, the Medical Society welcomed the admissions team from Sigmund Freud University in Vienna and the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland to come to talk to our senior school students about what it’s like to be a student at medical school and the essential requirements they’d need to meet to be admitted. Following that, DP and Grade 10 students in Senior Societies listened to a lecture from an adolescent psychiatrist about a day in the life of a doctor and her path to becoming a psychiatrist, which many prospective medical students appreciated. Medical Society also published the 2nd volume of its magazine, MedNews, and had contributions from students on a variety of topics ranging from sleep disorders and lupus to medical ethics and autism. Medical Society also hosted multiple interactive activities. One example being quizzes on basic medical knowledge created by the older members, which allowed younger members of the society to enjoy, learn, and discover – with a prize given to the winner at the end! Moreover, Medical Society also encouraged members to share their interests and knowledge in the studentled presentations, which ranged from topics like neurodegenerative disorders and brain tumors to cardiovascular examinations and medical ethics. This gave the students an opportunity to discuss controversial areas of medicine and think deeply about their opinions. Finally, as students, especially younger members of society, tend to enjoy practical work, a heart dissection was demonstrated and then carried out along with online simulations (STEMI patient stimulation) to give students a chance to virtually experience a realistic hospital setting.

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DUKE OF

Edinburgh AWARD

By Shaza Khan, Grade 9 Jais and Sannat Odhrani, Grade 9 Hafeet We hope you enjoy this personal touch to the Bronze Award experience of Duke of Edinburgh at NLCS, by reading through the responses of students who recently partook in the process necessary to qualify for the award. If that’s not enough, immerse yourself in the retelling of an entirely different experience of the award; the journey which the current head of the Duke of Edinburgh programme has undergone. Introducing, Mrs. Deborah Keep! 1. What inspired you to start your own DoE adventure? I don’t think that I was ever “inspired” to do DofE as such. I was a fairly typical teenager and just did what all my friends were doing. We were in the Scouts and DofE was part of the program. 2. What is so special about DoE compared to other programs at NLCS and around the world? What I really like about DofE is that it is open to any young person with any ability or background. The four sections mean that the Award has areas where someone can really shine, and areas where they are challenged. The Award can be tailored to anyone and provides amazing opportunities for personal growth. 3. Describe your first DoE adventure? In New Zealand back in the 1980s, hiking (or tramping, as we call it!) was rather a common pastime with teenagers. I had been hiking since I was quite young but started to organize trips when I became a Scout. The first trip I organized, which may have been for DofE, was to Fiordland National Park with bush clad valleys and snowy mountain tops – quite different from hiking in the Kalba Mountains! 4. What would you have done differently on each of your AJs? I would have taken less gear since I always overpacked! In those days, we did not have modern lightweight hiking clothes and our backpacks were very heavy.

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5. What is your favorite DoE memory? My favorite DofE memory is my qualifying AJ for Gold. In those days, we were 100% independent (no adult shadow party) and I did the trip with some very close friends. We were mostly off-route, did river crossings and completed a spectacular alpine traverse. It was quite an adventure! 6. What was the hardest part of the DoE journey? One of the hardest aspects of the DofE was to find ideas for the other section that I was less confident in – Skills. That’s what I have always liked about the Award, one section will always challenge you and it is the most important section of all.

7. What was your favorite activity that you started thanks to the DoE award? I am not sure that I had a favorite activity, only hiking which I always loved. What I do thank DofE for is the confidence it gave me and opportunities for leadership. 8. What is so special about DoE at NLCS compared to other schools? DofE complements the ethos of NLCS and the IB curriculum that we follow. It provides tangible evidence of our extensive ECA programme and our service culture. 9. What advice do you have for anyone taking part or unsure about taking part in the DoFE award? Firstly, being an NLCS student, you will be surprised how much you do towards the DofE already – you might be halfway there! Find out more about the DofE from myself or speak with another student who is currently working towards their Award. There are also many reasons to take part in DofE and all are valid. It could be because of your friends, your family or you are keen to have a great university application. Whatever the reason, receiving your Award will be a moment to cherish and you will no doubt reflect on your personal growth in the years to come!

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Shaza’s Experience The Duke of Edinburgh International Award was a strenuous and tough experience but, in the end, it was completely worth it, with the team building and the wonderful nature we were surrounded by. Throughout the DofE journey, we experienced the wonderful landscape of the Kalba Mountains as we saw a range of wildlife such as goats, camels, cows, and sheep. As the journey went on, I felt closer to my team just as my legs felt closer to death (just kidding!). I think the most important skill I got from the DofE is interpersonal and communication skills. The Duke of Edinburgh International Award fits in very well with the risk-taker IB learner profile; it teaches us to step outside of our comfort zone and to explore our surroundings, and talk to others to make new friends. Sannat's Experience Before we could embark on our Adventurous Journeys; the practice, and qualifying journeys, there were multiple things our Grade 9 cohort had to prepare and undergo. These included learning exactly how we would survive in our groups, whilst hiking in nature. These preparation sessions took place during after-school sessions, in an ECA slot. We were given a booklet, to consolidate our learning, and ensure we were informed regarding information our teachers were giving us in that 1-hour time slot. A key feature of the DoE journey is its emphasis on learning new skills, alongside its famous, or infamous, depending on who you are, adventurous journey. In order to receive the Bronze Award, individuals must partake in 13 hours of a skill, physical activity, and a form of community service. One of these activities must be selected as a major, which can vary from person to person. The major requires 26 hours to be completed instead of 13; 1 per week, of one of the 3 activities. Talk about long term commitment!

It is important to know that hiking; or more broadly, going on an adventurous journey is almost absolutely the cornerstone of each level of the award, and it is vital that if you make the choice to take part in the award (why would you do such a thing? - Again, that’s a joke) that you both mentally, and physically prepare yourself for the practice, and qualifying journey. Additionally, ensure that you are adequately prepared in terms of equipment, maps, and route cards too. Although I suppose if you did get lost in the desert because you didn’t listen, you wouldn’t be missed much. (For legal reasons, this is a joke) However, something that really stuck with me was the fact that people in my team for both AJ’s were constantly supportive, especially when things didn’t go to plan in the desert, and especially when they didn’t need to be in the slightest. That, alongside the, at the time, painful, but now fond, memories made on the trips is one of the best parts of the Award. 208

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In conclusion, the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is a long-term commitment. It ensures the growth of well-rounded individuals and is undoubtedly an experience which every single person should put themselves through. Although partaking in some of the various aspects of the award can seem like willingly throwing yourself into a burning pit of fire. However, during the ‘dying in a pit of fire’ aspects of the award, it is absolutely reassuring to know that each person in your team, for the Adventurous Journey, is willing to help you out, and keep everyone going and that you would do the same.

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CHARITY

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Cecilia Haykal, Grade 11 Hafeet Having been part of the Charity Committee for four years and part of the leadership team of the committee for two, I have watched our committee grow from a quick break-time meeting with small numbers to a flourishing group of students that want to give back to the community in any way they can. Having been able to take on the role of Chair of the committee this year, I have been able to watch our members become more confident in taking the lead in certain events and watch our committee gradually expand, both in number and potential. At the very beginning of the year, the charity committee organized the Pink Day event, the biggest event of the year, where we raised around 16,000 AED for the Al Jalila Foundation. After this event, we set ourselves a goal of reaching 50,000AED for Al Jalila to support those in need. Following Pink Day we have had various successful events such as the Walk for Diabetes, the Love and Kindness day, and the Ramadan food drive. As of the current moment, we have raised just over 47,000 AED for the organization, a goal that we are planning on completing before the end of the academic year. The committee has worked diligently for the community this year and as chair, having had the opportunity to watch the committee grow to where it is currently has been incredibly fulfilling. The charity committee has a lot planned for the future!

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Emirati Committee Alya Lootah, Grade 11 Yibir, Senior Student Having led the Emirati Committee this year, a strengthened national identity became part of our NLCS identity, in all disciplines. Our Emirati week presented an element of cultural understanding to be developed by MyDeleel and our National Day celebrations. Yet, to me these impacts are a byproduct of my true intention. An aim to instill the values that make our nation a success, within our school community. This was and will continue to remain my greatest goal. A goal, that once met, will set no cap to our individual and collective dreams. The UAE’s 50th year, the Golden Jubilee, is a turning point for our nation. Its celebration came in the form of investment in people-building, using this inflection point to celebrate our remarkable journey over the last 50 years and begin preparing our nation for the transformative change that lies ahead in the next 50 years. I was prompted to reflect on the journey we have taken as a nation, from a literal desert to a wonder, an indescribable state. A wonder that could not have been built in a day or two. This is attributed to the founder of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace. The determination to strive forward has become part of our integral genes, exceeding expectations each time. Since I joined the NLCS family in the very first year (2017), I constantly think of where the school will be in the next 20, 50, 100 years. The year of the 50th gave me certainty that our beginnings as a young, small school, led by inspiring teachers, in an encouraging environment will set the fundamentals of what will be the benchmark of education in this country. Set no limits to your dreams. Make NLCS proud and make the UAE prouder.

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Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed (Late)

Photo Credits: Emily Monaghan www.nlcsdubai.ae

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Asa Mittal, Grade 11 Yibir On the 19th of April, NLCS Dubai hosted an Iftar event for parents during the holy month of Ramadan. The event celebrated the local culture and allowed members of the school community to learn more about local traditions and customs. We are lucky to have an extremely diverse community in school, with students from all over the world. It is important to celebrate both our different cultures but also the culture of the country we live in. Every year, Muslims fast from sunset to sunrise during Ramadan. It is a time for spiritual growth, reflection, spending time with loved ones and helping those in need. In the morning, Muslims wake up before dawn to eat a meal called Suhoor before they begin fasting for the day and they break their fast after sunset with a meal called Iftar. During the event, attendees learned more about Islamic culture and followed some of the local customs. Speeches were given in Arabic and English by members of the Big 4 to spread awareness about the meaning behind Ramadan and the importance of Iftar in Islamic culture. The main theme of the evening was the importance of giving to those less fortunate. 214

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Ramadan reminds Muslims to be generous and increase their charitable donations. One of the five pillars of Islam is Zakat, it is a religious duty that prompts all Muslims to donate at least 2.5% of their annual income to help others. Within the NLCS community we are fortunate to have the opportunities afforded to us and it is essential that we take a step back and think about what we can do for others. While many of us are not Muslim, we can learn from the generosity and attitude towards giving in Islam. As part of the event, prayers were read by the Islamic teachers. After which we watched the Iftar canon on TV. The cannon is fired every evening during Ramadan and signals the end of the fast for Muslims. Traditionally, the fast is broken by eating dates and drinking water. After the Muslim attendees broke their fast, everyone enjoyed a delicious meal made up of local cuisine. The event was an enjoyable social event for parents to connect with each other and have an opportunity to speak to some of the teachers. This was the first time that parents were allowed into school since the beginning of the pandemic. Over the last few years, everyone has faced tremendous adversity and is looking forward to returning to “normal.” With restrictions easing, this event allowed us to regain a sense of community. For many parents it was a welcome opportunity to reconnect with the school. For newer members to the school community, it was the first opportunity to experience an event inside school and interact with the teachers. The Iftar event was enjoyable evening for all those involved and a sign of things to come.

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International Picnic Day Navya Kumar, Grade 7 Hafeet and Marie Rouanet, Grade 7 Jais NLCS celebrated its 5th International Picnic Day in 2022 – a day to bring in traditional food or do something that represents your culture, such as singing or dancing or even giving a presentation on your traditions and beliefs – a real celebration of multiculturalism. Multiculturism is the result of globalization. The dictionary describes as ‘the presence of, or support for the presence of, several distinct cultural or ethnic groups within a society.’ Multiculturism can also be seen as a viewpoint; the view that cultures, races, and ethnicities, particularly those of minority groups, deserve special acknowledgment of their differences within a dominant political culture. Multiculturism is incredibly important as it brings diversity in all its forms. It brings in ideas, perspectives, from all around the world. Multiculturism supports the idea that we are stronger together. By joining forces, we can come up with amazing things. And Dubai is an exquisite and precise example of this. The home country of our school has for 50years now devoted itself to creating a multicultural, safe, and diverse place for all from around the world. Our school, being in this international hub, has students from all around the world. Culture is extremely important in a person's and society's lives. It serves as the foundation for human experience, as well as a way of storing, conveying, and storing it. People become who they are because of their exposure to culture, which includes learning the language, symbols, values, norms, practices, and traditions. Culture has significant social and economic worth in addition to its real quality. Culture improves our quality of life and raises general well-being for both individuals and communities through improving learning and health, increasing tolerance, and providing opportunities to connect with others. Culture has an impact on development and discipline. Values, standards, judgment, social impact, and human action are all part of culture. Values and beliefs are crucial. In conclusion, International Picnic day is to celebrate, appreciate and discover the diverse community that resides in our wonderful school. It allows students to truly understand our values, traditions and even the way we function. NLCS finds it important for everyone to be known and understood and this is exactly why NLCS is truly a wonderful school to be in.

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Library

Senior School

What a wonderful year for NLCS libraries. The collection grew by 18% reaching more than 22,800 books, in addition to the six digital platforms to support our IB curriculum and promote reading for pleasure. Those were coupled with 22 periodical subscriptions. These resources are hosted on our library management system ‘Heritage’, where 1300 school ‘readers’ can consult and search the library catalogue. Maintaining the Heritage system resulted in upsurge of the library usage in terms of book circulation and digital access (JSTOR, Britannica, Scholastic BookFlix and TrueFlix, MackinVIA, Nahla we Nahel, and The Day Explorer). The number of library sessions also increased: other than the fortnightly English library visits, most academic subjects scheduled sessions in the Library to reflect the role of the IB library in supporting academic learning. We held Academic Integrity sessions to students, staff and DP parents. We are proud of our revised UAE, Arabic and the Islamic collection and curating resources for our social studies curriculum. We update the MYP units’ display termly to guide students and link our resources to the curriculum. We participated in the Emirates Literature Festival literary initiatives: from Reading to Poetry and writing competitions. Our school community and students enjoyed a wide array of virtual authors’ sessions in English and Arabic.

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Gladly, this year witnessed the return of the Winter Book Fair to our premises. The event was a huge success in terms of the number of visitors and the number of books displayed in English, Arabic, French, Spanish, German and Chinese languages. There was a reading aloud corner, run by Grade 11 students as part of their CAS activity, and readers were awarded with certificates and gift vouchers. The Senior library was a venue for popular ECAs such as ‘Reading Buddies’, when Grade 10 and 11 students read with younger pupils. The second ECA is Model United Nations, where students prepare to attend international conferences such as Singapore THIMUN Nov 2021 and The Hague MUN Jan 2022. This year observed our successful 11th international conference participation. In term 3, from PYP to MYP transition -The Grade 5 Inspire sessions held in the Senior Library were a great success. Students were buzzing with enthusiasm; they searched and inquired for resources to support their ‘Exhibition’ project. Similarly, from MYP to DP transition, Grade 10 students who completed their MYP e-assessments, are scheduled pre-DP sessions to prepare for their Grade 11: research skills, Cornell notes, know your genre, MLA citations, how to write an abstract, pre-university reading lists and searching for volunteer/internship opportunities.

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New Students

Naya Najjar and Riyana Bhojwani, Grade 7 Hafeet One of the advantages of living in such a fast-paced and often transient place as Dubai, is that we often have new students joining us. In this article, Naya Najjar, and Riyana Bhojwani, both in Grade 7 Hafeet, interview some of our new students and talk to them about their experiences of starting at NLCS Dubai. Liji Huang, Grade 7 Jais 1. What was your first impression of this school? When I first came into this school, everyone was truly kind and caring. Whenever I was struggling or trying to find my way around, my friends and classmates helped me. The school has a very friendly environment and the teachers were incredibly supportive. 2. What does NLCS mean to you? When I come to school every day, I look forward to seeing my friends, I am also excited to learn new things. 3. What is your favourite thing about this school? My favorite thing about school is the House events. My favourite one is Sports Day. I also enjoy all the Subject weeks and all the events that take place. 4. Have you taken part in any of our school’s societies or ECAs? If so, which ones? I have taken part in our school’s orchestra and in the string ensemble. I love these ECAs because I have a passion for music. 5. What was the highlight of your school year? The highlight of my school year was Sports Day because it was fun, and I got to compete and work with many of my friends. I was also able to connect with many people and make new friends. Iyad Mallah, Grade 7 Jais 1. What was your first impression of this school? At first, I thought the work that was given to us was going to be difficult, however I enjoyed doing it because I like a challenge. My teachers and classmates helped me with my work and after just a couple of days, I was confident enough to do it by myself. Everyone in my grade and in my class were nice to me and I quickly made great friends. 2. What does NLCS mean to you? This school is like my second home, and I am always looking forward to seeing and hanging out with my friends. 3. What is your favorite thing about this school? This school had many more subjects than there were in my old school, and I find it fun to learn about things I could not have learned before and really enjoy my lessons. 220

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4. Have you taken part in any of our school’s societies or ECAs? If so, which ones? I have taken part in the Crypto Currency, Astronomy, and History Model building ECA. I enjoyed these ECAs as I was able to learn new things and spend time with my friends. 5. What was the highlight of your school year? The highlight of my school year was The Expo 2020 Trip. I enjoyed learning new things about the environment and about different countries. Devika Chellaram, Grade 6 Yibir 1. What was your first impression of this school? My first impression was that this was a well-rounded school and I found it interesting to know that this was a very culturally diverse school. I also thought that this school was very academic and fun. 2. What does NLCS mean to you? NLCS is my second family and I love being surrounded by many caring students and friends. 3. What is your favourite thing about this school? My favourite thing about this school is how many subjects there are, and I love learning new things every day. I also love the fact that I can produce my own innovative ideas with my teacher’s support. 4. Have you taken part in any of our school’s societies or ECAs? If so, which ones? I take part in the hand embroidery ECA, and I always look forward to the day when it takes place. 5. What was the highlight of your school year? The highlight of my school year was Sports Day because I enjoyed being athletic with my House members and I made new friends.

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Founder's Day Founder’s Day is held every year in all of the NLCS Schools around the world. It is a formal but moving occasion, in which we commemorate the beginnings of our fantastic school and the decision made by Frances Mary Buss in 1850 to open a school that would provide the very best education for girls. Now, 172 years later, in London, Jeju, Dubai and Singapore, NLCS is providing the very best education to boys and girls from all over the Globe. To be able to celebrate this special day in person was wonderful; to be able to process with our daffodils, the favourite flower of the Founder; to be able to sing our traditional songs; to be able to take part in a service that has become a cornerstone of our traditions and ethos as a school: We are a school that looks back, to the roots of where we have come from, and forward, to the success of our students for many years to come and Founder’s Day is central to this. Mr Monaghan’s address was all centred on the idea of success and there is no doubt that this year’s Founder’s Day was a triumph, affirming to all of us how fortunate we are to be part of such thriving traditions and such a successful family of schools.

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Sufi Ali, Grade 8 Hafeet and Zahra Manji, Grade 8 Yibir What was your experience of Founder’s Day this year? “I really enjoyed Founder’s Day as the whole school could celebrate a common cause. I enjoyed the inspirational speeches that day and I believe that celebrating the history of our school is a very important tradition to keep for so many years.” Alex Ghandour, Grade 8 Jais “I’ve been to Founder’s Day here and in Jeju, and I think it’s great to have our own little traditions that we do while keeping to the memories of how this all began.” Ian Riddler – Teacher of Maths “It was a very pleasant experience as I haven’t experienced it before and I felt that it really brought our culture together and I enjoyed seeing the different students in the school.” Zahra Manji, Grade 8 Yibir “It was the first time I experienced all the speeches and they were very inspirational, and the procession was exciting.” Mona Abeele, Grade 8 Hafeet

“I think Founder’s Day was a really fun experience especially as it was my first formal one; it was interesting to learn about the history of the School. I particularly loved the idea of the daffodil processions.” Lana Ameer, Grade 7 Yibir “This was my first Founder’s Day and I really liked the daffodils and walking with my partner.” Yusuf Qureshi, Grade 1 Turtles “I found it really fun to hear about the school and the daffodils. Also, I learnt about Frances Mary Buss.” Zara Siddiqi, Grade 2 Oryx How did you feel coming back to the real Founder’s Day service after the virtual experience last year? It was great to finally do this event in person after so long. We all needed this experience, especially the younger students who have been more affected by Covid. It helps to reconnect with the tradition as the online version is not as engaging either. Alex Ghandour “As someone who was in grade 5 when we went online and moved to senior school virtually, it was a nerve racking yet exciting experience.” Lana Ameer “I found it very intriguing, having never seen Founder’s Day in person before. It was very interesting seeing all of the school, including the Junior school, parading in with their daffodils, and to realise how many students there are in the school..” Georgia Ward – Teacher of Geography www.nlcsdubai.ae

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Why is Founder’s Day special at NLCS Dubai? “I think that seeing everyone together and learning about the school, its roots, and its founder is very inspirational.” Ioana Frates – Grade 8 Hafeet “It’s something that sets our school apart because of our pride and our tradition and rich culture” Ismail Damerji – Grade 8 Javi It allows us to celebrate the history of NLCS and brings the whole school together and it’s just a wonderful time for everyone to come together!” Amy Wybrant – Teacher of Biology “It celebrates all our Founders, and I think it’s good to look back. The school in London is very special, certainly around the elements of what it did for girls’ education, and I think it’s great to celebrate that and to remember where we started from. And it’s a great opportunity to celebrate where we’re going to and how we’ve diversified and we have mixed schools as well.” Ian Riddler “I think it’s good to look back at the heritage of the school and remember how long the school has been open for, and make sure that the history of the school is not forgotten.” Georgia Ward “I think Founder’s Day is such a special tradition for our school because it shows how we are truly a family, we go across the international spectrum, but also we have our traditions with our NLCS UK school. For me, that is incredibly important because I believe that tradition should be at the heart of what we do whereas we have our international education alongside our UK-based traditional values and that is a really important part of who we are as a school. It means we are truly a family within a family. ” Frances Powell – Vice Principal Pastoral Care

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National Day Alya Lootah, Grade 11 Yibir, Senior Student National Day: A memorable day, one that is looked forward to by our NLCS community months in advance! The ease of COVID restrictions came just in time for the celebration of the UAE’s Golden Jubilee. Gracefully, the entire school community from the first school all the way up to the Senior School took part in several different fun activities. A prerequisite for the Senior School activities was Mr May’s Nicholson Lecture, providing insight on the long-term plans of the UAE for the next 50 years. Curious questions were then asked to a falcon expert, answered, and followed wide-eyed looks of awe. Looks of awe that extended all the way to the field with the Dubai Police K9 show. The greatest part of the celebration was the lasting imprint of each member of our school community on the traditional Sadu artwork and the fingerprinted UAE flag. Tears came to my eyes as I saw the little Pre KG students begging for a certain colour, helping each other to fingerprint successfully. You see randomly distributed lines, whilst I see unique valley patterns of sacrifice and effort. Powerful valley patterns ready to take on the world to leave a lasting imprint. Each year, everyone is reminded of the UAE’s journey, traditions, and celebrations on the 2nd of December. Yet, at NLCS Dubai, we go the extra mile; we are reminded of our collective collaborative actions that will go down in the history of the UAE.

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Elyza Jamal, Grade 6 Hafeet Every year, NLCS Dubai students, staff and parents are launched into a celebratory mood to celebrate the National Day of the UAE, which is officially celebrated on the 2nd of December. This year, we commemorated the 50th anniversary of the UAE with a variety of events. The school was ablaze with shades of black, blue, red, green and gold, along with traditional dresses of the UAE. The activities ranged from tasting typical Emirati foods, to watching dances by performers. The celebrations commenced with a special police dog show in the field, followed by enjoying customary dancing and music in the budge square, while trying the tasty traditional delicacies of the United Arab Emirates. In the atrium, there were stands for Arabic Calligraphy and Henna, and it was so nice to view the intricate font, styles and patterns involved in creating such art. These displays were followed by a visit from a falcon, the national bird of the UAE, and a wonderful artistic session where we made collages of the UAE flag colours. This was a truly enjoyable day, and I hope that we will be able to celebrate this event again in the coming years!

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Sophia Both, Grade 7 Javi Remember the time when news first got out about a new weird virus at the end of 2019? Remember when people started scavenging for masks and resources? Remember when the streets were empty before 6 am and after 8 pm? We all remember the year 2020 and its devastating turn of events. What if I told you, the same thing happened just about 100 years before? It's true, the Spanish flu of 1918 left 50million dead and the world mortified. It was the first time in hundreds of years that there had been such a flu outbreak. The plague (or Black Death) had reached the British shores in June of 1348 and ended up killing 60% of the population at the time. Fortunately, we are much more advanced and can handle situations like these that are placed before us. And so instead of running outside of the comfort of your home to try and get water and food, all we have to do is stay home and try new DIY projects or find new 1-minute mug cakes to try. I would say the time has treated us well.

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This year has been a breath of fresh air: covid restrictions have been lifted. We students have more space for learning, and everything is slowly going back to the way they were. We all go to a school which is so incredibly devoted to making sure that we students are learning and happy. At the beginning of the year, we were all hoping for lockers, a chance to move around from class to class, and a new start to the year. And we got that, all of it. Covid has impacted so many of our lives, whether it’s not being able to see family members, parents losing jobs, and more. As we get back to normal, it’s hard not to realize how much has changed, yes, we still go to school and work but we have to wear masks and social distancing is separating friends. Over time, we have completely changed our lifestyles and daily routines. So, as we pick apart covid regulations and go back to our lives that have been put on hold, we must realize how lucky we are to finally have things go back to normal. Although it may not seem like something so simple could make a difference, walking from class to class has definitely had an immense impact on the school environment. Last year, we had an incredibly dull school year with very little going on and not being able to go around school, making the school very quiet. But now, the school is busy and lively with everyone walking to classes. Moreover, I believe this has impacted us in the way that we can see older or younger students and get to know each other more and have some connections with the grades above. This has an impact because it’s scientifically proven that friendships with older or younger grades can help improve confidence and boost motivation. Our House is like a family that we can rely on for help and support, but since we have been separated, we couldn’t spot those in our houses and build friendships and bonds with them. Only recently, have we been able to do more House competitions and support our House in the best way we can. Without these interactions with those in our house, how can we create the team spirit we were meant to have? When we compare the House competition results of the year before and now, we can see a massive difference and I believe this is because of the House spirit we have finally acquired. In addition to this, some House competitions couldn’t run properly like House Drama, House Music and Sports Day. This didn’t impact us as much as social distancing or masks, but still, it impacts us. Almost everyone can agree that House competitions are one of the most interesting events in school. Now we can compete in these events as before. A covid regulation that impacted us so greatly was masks and social distancing. A few months ago, a rule was set that we could take off our masks outside and social distancing has decreased slowly but surely. This has allowed us to go back to normal. Masks have made our lives so much harder and more uncomfortable. Facial expressions were a major part of our communication, but masks had had to put that on hold. A loss of a sense of community and more social rejection has been created because of social distancing. Overall, masks and social distancing had an impact in our communications and body language with other people. Lastly, experiments and practical lessons are now back into place allowing us to learn more about certain subjects, especially Sciences. Biology, Physics, and Chemistry were getting a bit boring without them but thankfully the KHDA allowed us to finally have practical lessons. Practical lessons help us be much more engaged with the lessons. Moreover, these types of lessons help students who learn better by doing instead of watching. Covid has been a really big step back for everyone and it really is a relief to see everyone being able to experience life without all the masks, isolation and distancing in their way. Ironically, here I am sitting in my room, writing my article, in isolation. I am writing about all of the restrictions that have been lifted, and yet here I am stuck on the second floor of my house. …. With covid! So, we must remember that covid hasn’t disappeared and that when inside, we must make sure to wear our masks properly and stay safe outside. We are so very fortunate to be able to finally be able to go outside and experience a normal life as much as we possibly can. We mustn't take advantage of this and make sure we still know how to take care of ourselves, so that these privileges aren’t taken away from us.

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Art

House

By Anika Mahajan and Devica Sadarangani, Grade 8

House Art is a very significant House Competition in NLCS because it incorporates many different people, who get to showcase their love of art. Since it is not a team competition, they can individually show off their skills to the rest of the NLCS community. This year's House Art competition was especially successful because it was in person rather than online and people got to showcase their skills and bring a sense of House spirit. This year's theme was ‘Words into Art’, which was successful as it allowed students to incorporate beliefs that they are passionate about into their Art. This year Hafeet were the winners of House Art – well done Hafeet!

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Naya Najjar - Grade 7 Ziquan Tang - Grade 8 Hafeet

Xiyuan Yin - Grade 11 Hafeet

Agata Roman - Grade 7 Hafeet

Louiza Gramma - Grade 6 Hafeet www.nlcsdubai.ae

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House

Netball 2022

Amelia Dawson, Grade 7 Jais This year has been an amazing year for House Netball! We were all thrilled that it came back, after two long years without it due to Covid-19 restrictions. There was great play from all Houses. They were all incredibly competitive and every single player made a significant contribution to their respective Houses. The smiles and joy on court were accompanied by cheers from the crowds on the side-lines Yibir benefited from the dynamic duo of sisters Layla and Nadine, with aggressive and consistent attacking play towards the circle. It was great to see Grade 6 girls on court for the first time, even with Mrs Dawson blowing the whistle every 5 seconds for their footwork and contact violations! The experience of Grade 11 and Grade 10 was evident as they moved the ball court confidently down the court. Josie for Jais was fierce in defence, as was Cecilia for Hafeet. Sheeya and Anna from Javi added a great level of skill that challenged the opposition. Huge congratulations to Jais for a very well-deserved win. We are already looking forward to 2023!

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SPORTS DAY

Physical Heath Education

Junior School Athletics The Junior team competed in the DASSA Athletics meet at Swiss School during Term Two. The team demonstrated they were ready for competition after a year off. They raced with determination and lots of them crossed the finish line in first position. The team of 30 students brought home six gold medals from the track and field events. We are excited for what next year will have in store for our talented athletes. Basketball U11 This is the first NLCS Dubai Junior Basketball team. The boys have been training with Mr. Egan and competing in a weekly DASSA league. The boys had a steady start to the season, losing their first game, but this did not deter the players, who improved throughout the season. Well done to everyone and we are looking forward to developing this sport further next year, Desert Dance It has been a strange year for Desert Dance across Dubai restrictions changing throughout the year, however the students’ passion for and commitment to Dance has been commendable. Exceptional creativity and choreographic skills contributed to some superb performances. We are already looking forward to being back on stage to perform next year. Boys Football - U9 & U11 The Junior Boys Football teams were made up of a U9 and U11 squad. This academic year, the U11 Football team had an enjoyable and successful season. The team was made up of fifteen boys in Grade 4 and 5 who had an excellent pre-season. We were lucky to have a number of players in the team that were able to play in various positions, which was extremely valuable, especially when we had a few players missing due to illness. The team won and lost an equal number of fixtures, with all games being evenly contested. There were no finals this year due to the recent return to sport and we can now look ahead to next season. The U9 team is an emerging team and played several fixtures in Term One. The team was made up of boys in Grade 2 and 3 and every player thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The league was split this year in terms of geographical location, which meant the team did not need to travel far for away fixtures. Next season, we hope to return to competitive fixtures and a league structure. Football U9 & U11 Girls Football is a sport loved by all ages, genders and abilities at NLCS Dubai and the Junior School is no exception. The girls’ season was reduced because of the restrictions during Term Two, but this only gave us more time to refine and practice our skills. The under 9 team competed in two development tournaments, which were officiated by our senior students. Both teams enjoyed a taste of competitive football and should continue to practice their skills at home and club level. The under 11 team competed in three competitions from NLCS Dubai to Expo; we had highs, lows and learned some key footballing lessons. The Expo event exposed our students to the UAE FA, who were very impressed with the students’ skill level, and determination on the football pitch. We have a rich tradition of girls’ football at NLCS Dubai and it was great to see this continuing to grow and develop into the school’s fifth year. Netball - U9 & U11 It has been a pleasure to see our U11 netballers train and perform to such high standards this year. What eager and passionate students we have; they have found a home on the netball court and have consistently demonstrated immense teamwork, whenever they play. 240

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As teachers, we have loved being there to facilitate this journey and can’t wait to see these girls blossom further in their netballing abilities. The U9 girls thoroughly enjoyed training and absolutely loved matches against other schools. For most of the girls, this was their first experience of Netball and the progress they made in a term was incredible. Their passing and shooting skills improved with each week and I can't wait to see them play again next year. Rounders - U9 & U11 The U9 team attended early morning training each week with enthusiasm and passion for Rounders. They quickly picked up the rules, their batting skills improved and they raced around the posts to score points. I think nearly everyone managed to get on the score sheet. Even though the season was short the U11 team tackled each training session with enthusiasm and a desire to improve. Each fixture saw the girls develop as a team and become versatile in playing several different positions. They need to be commended on their strong batting and overarm throws. By the end of the season, the girls had learned at times to take risks in the process of earning those extra rounders. I can still hear them chanting “risk it for a biscuit”. Swim squad - U9 & U11 The Junior Swim Squad have had a remarkable year in the pool, finishing in 2nd place at the first warm up Swim Gala of the year at Repton Al Barsha. In May, all 60 Junior Schools across Dubai battled it out for a place at Hamdan Swim finals. Only the top 30 schools were entitled to qualify and NLCS Dubai finished in Division 2 which placed us somewhere between 11th - 20th. On June 16th, the NLCS Dubai Junior Swim Squad team went to Hamdan to take part in the DASSA Swim Finals

Senior School Athletics The Senior Athletic team was put together quickly with little training, other than their PE lessons and club training. We were entered into the DASSA Athletic Division 2 (of 6) where we won six gold medals, and a plethora of silver medals, and lots of more bronzes. In this division, Team NLCS placed third out of six schools on the day, narrowly missing out on second place by four points, which is the equivalent of two races. This was an extraordinary achievement, given the circumstances. I would encourage those who participated to continue training over the summer. U12 Boys’ Basketball The trials for U12 basketball were very well attended and choosing the squad was an extremely difficult task. The boys selected have made an excellent start to the season and at the time of going to press, have a 100% record in their games with wins against both JESS and Safa British School. The team has also been training hard on Tuesday mornings and this is really paying off as they are looking more confident and prepared for matches. We are hoping that the team can now finish the season strongly and that all the boys go into next year’s U14 competition ready to compete and take their skills to the next level. U19 Boys’ Basketball The U19 boys basketball team was made up of students from grades 10,11 and 12. After some tough lunchtime training sessions, the team played their league matches with great success. The highlights were wins over Sheffield and Hartland. As the first U19 basketball team that NLCS has entered, these boys have ignited a passion with the senior year groups for basketball to become a major sport within the school The sixth form students also proved that it is possible to have sporting and recreational interests and still complete your IB Diploma! U14 Boys’ Basketball At the time of going to print, the U14 basketball league is well underway. Yet again the commitment from all players turning up weekly at 7 am to train is admirable. The U14 have thus far played three games, narrowly losing the first game to Dwight 37-32, but stepping off the court with a great boost in their learning and understanding of the game. 242

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The second game against Repton at home was a ‘tough’ affair. The NLCS Dubai team faced a very organised and well-drilled team and lost by a substantial margin. Nevertheless, regardless of the result, it was great to see the boys compete and play with spirit and determination and work right until the buzzer. The third game saw NLCS Dubai travel to Regent International. NLCS were leading at halftime by 1 point but narrowly missed out on the victory. Girls’ Basketball U12, U14, U16 The success of the year has to be girls’ basketball with three new teams and 50 girls participating, this exciting game is on the ECA map! All teams have won the majority of their games through a combination of skill, grit and coaching from Mrs. Ahmed and Miss Jones. We have a blend of experience and athletic ability, I hope all players find some time to refine their shooting skills this summer. Next season the teams will compete in higher divisions in DASSA. Well done to all the students who put themselves forward this year, hopefully, we will see at least one student playing in the greatest league in the world: WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association) U15 Cricket What a great year for cricket at NLCS. A mixture of success in terms of results but a huge growth in participation and interest in school cricket means we are looking forward to next year already, knowing that we have a huge number of students interested in training and playing. The boys have been practicing their bowling and batting in the nets during Term 3 and have certainly honed their skills and taken them into matches. A close game against Sharjah ended with a 10-run defeat but this was soon followed by a last-ball win against Repton. JESS proved too strong this year, but the boys are confident of more success next year with all year-round training set to happen as well as some new kits on the horizon. U16 Boys’ Football The U16 boys’ football team was extremely well attended this year. So well attended that we had to create a ‘B’ for the first time. This meant that we had 18 players in both the ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams. A great turnout and excellent match experience for those selected, regardless of which squad they played in. The ‘A’ team had several close matches recording one win, two draws and two defeats while the ‘B’ team won three of their five matches. Training took place before school and prepared the boys for a tough season. Unfortunately, the Cup competition could not go ahead due to restrictions but friendly matches were arranged instead to give the boys more valuable match practice. U12 Boys’ Football The NLCS U12 Boys Football Team had an incredible season, an unbeatable season, an invincible season. The season began with a friendly match against Hartland dispatching of them 6-0. The league season then commenced with wins against Greenfield, Kings Al Barsha, and JESS. The winning streak and intricate football continued with a brilliant performance and another 6-0 against Jumeirah College. Our season was rounded off and the league title was confirmed with a win against Gems WA. The team showed great togetherness and played football beyond their division. We decided to test ourselves with a friendly match against Jumeriah College A, who were 5 divisions above us, beating them 3-1. A wonderful season with a team packed full of quality. A season that should long live in the memory of these boys. U14 Boys’ Football The U14 boys showed great commitment to the early morning training sessions. The team played with good shape, pride and spirit. Against tough opposition, they played 4 games, had 1 draw and 3 losses, narrowly losing 3-2 in the final game. Each game had huge improvements and scored some well deserved goals. The team finished 6th in the league table before COIVD interrupted the season and will look to get off to a flying start next year. Aquathlon The Senior Aquathlon started in Term 3 as a free ECA following on from a paid ECA in triathlon delivered by MSA in term 1. Boys and girls from Grade 6 to Grade 10, with a range of different backgrounds, strengths and abilities worked hard to improve the different disciplines of swimming, biking and running and how to manage the associated transitions. 244

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The student numbers are rising and with competitive students represented from each discipline, this has given students the chance to try new disciplines alongside the more experienced, improve their fitness and learn from each other as the competitive season draws near. We hope to see the students out there in the community events next season wearing the NLCS trisuits! Girls’ Football U12, U14 & U19 U12 girls football team was made of a squad of 12 committed players who have a genuine love for the beautiful game. The goals came from all areas of the pitch with more than 6 players getting on the score sheet. All players were open to playing a range of positions and supported their peers during training, matches and House Competitions. The team was placed in division two of seven and finished the league just above mid-table, highlighting that we can compete with the top teams in Dubai. There is a lot of potential in this young, committed team who continue to join local clubs to develop their passion. U12 & U15 Netball team The girls made huge improvements throughout the season and by the end of the DASSA league, they played like a well-oiled team. Passes were faster, footwork was sharp and shooting was accurate. The girls have expressed an interest in continuing to play Netball and are now leading the Grade 4 and 5 girls in a morning training session this term. It was wonderful to see netball back being played across the schools in Dubai. The U15 girls were motivated in training, focused on their development as players, and subsequently improved game on game. Passing and movement across the court were fast and effective. Defensive players were committed and strong in their roles. It will be exciting to see what these girls bring to U19 netball next year. U13 & U15 Rounders The U13 Rounders team remain unbeaten against Dubai College, DESC, and Jebel Ali School this season. We had a squad of 20 players who began to form some unstoppable partnerships on the field. The team’s batting went from 5 rounders per innings to 8 rounders and above, which would challenge any school in the emirate. The term ‘catches win matches’ was in the spirit of the team, well done everyone for a high-performing season. The U15 Rounders Team are the undefeated Champions of their division, winning every single game of the season. Disciplined, calm and consistent fielding, supported by some incredible batting were key factors in the teams success. They have been an absolute delight to coach, committed and focused in training and great company on the bus journey to fIxtures!! Senior Swim squad The senior swim squad really stands out, with regard to their dedicated attitude and patience to train even when galas were not permitted. The squad trained hard throughout the year and were excellent in their first friendly Gala against Wellington International School. The next gala saw the return of a multi-school gala with NLCS having the privilege of hosting Kent College, Jebel Ali School and Wellington International School. All is looking good for next year with the return of regular galas and the end of year Championships at the Hamdan Sports Complex. Volleyball U14 & 16 girls and U16 boys The Volleyball season was enjoyed by both genders equally. This sport has a unique position as both genders can compete with and against each other in friendly competition. The girls were entered into the DASSA Under 16s league, where we competed well during their game, winning several sets but no games this time. The boys attended volleyball training and had their first friendly games against an under 19s experienced team, NLCS secured the first set but couldn’t finish the game on top.

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