Michaelmas 2023 Peponi Post

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PEPONI POST Michaelmas Term / December 2023

Headmaster’s Introduction The Michaelmas term is consistently lengthy and demanding, encompassing numerous lessons, and not only those confined to the classroom. As you peruse this concise overview of the events of the term, you will swiftly understand that a substantial amount has been accomplished. The majority of the reported highlights pertain to events beyond the classroom, more specifically, completed whilst the demands of their teachers and the academic demands of either iGCSE and A Level are met. Their activity has included, but not restricted to, sporting achievements, debating triumphs, and musical crescendos. Our pupils are actively engaged in a variety of pursuits, and despite the ever-changing landscape of digital influence and the potential negative aspects of technology, it can be asserted that our pupils immerse themselves in social, active, and rewarding realms.

While they may have screen-related distractions, their involvement mirrors the generations preceding them.

The school council has been notably active, engaging in substantial and encouraging discussions. The unanimous approval of the formation of the new Ministry of Environment signals its earnest initiation. In the upcoming term, the focus will shift towards translating discussions into practice, and under the leadership of our Prefects and Ministers, I am optimistic that significant achievements will be realised.

I leave you to enjoy the Peponi Post. Kindly take the time to peruse the firefly pages I have forwarded this term. I recommended two specific articles: the first on Marijuana and THCs, and the second on the ever-evolving landscape of social media and the use of mobile devices. It is crucial to approach their content with a positive reflection. The majority of our children demonstrate sensibility, thoughtfulness, and the capability to make judicious decisions. In instances where mistakes are made, our role is to provide support and encouragement

while occasionally offering constructive criticism in an encouraging manner that fosters sound decision-making.

I wish you all a joyous and celebratory new year. As we bid farewell to 2023 and welcome 2024 with enthusiasm, let us hope that the challenges of the past year and global conflicts can be quelled, paving the way for peaceful and productive solutions.

Mark Durston

Headmaster

01.

New Pupils Induction Weekend The beginning of a school term can be a challenge; the beginning of a school year can be even more so; but the beginning of a new school?

This is major.

A wonderful new chapter in pupils’ lives…

We thoroughly enjoyed, therefore, giving 106 new pupils at Peponi School the chance of familiarising and orienting: 24 hours with the School to themselves. New pupils in Form II, Shell, Lower Vth and Lower VIth were able to explore and experience our facilities in the two days running up to the beginning of the Michaelmas Term. They were able to meet key staff (and key senior pupils); get a chance to personalise their rooms in the

Houses, and gain insight on just what life at Peponi School can offer.

Parents did not miss out either: they had a chance to explore their child's new surroundings, and gain some reassurance from members of our community, be they staff or current pupils.

As you can see, this ‘major chapter’ seems to have begun rather well…

Karl Cook

Deputy Head Pastoral

02.

On Friday, 10th November, the School gathered for its traditional Remembrance Day ceremony. The purpose of the event is for us to gather as a community and reflect on the all those who have been affected by war, civil conflict and hardships born out of oppression.

The choir sang the anthem Ukuthula.

"Ukuthula," is South African was written during the apartheid regime in South Africa.

It means "peace" in isi Zulu, it symbolizes hope and resistance.

03.

Remembrance Day Ceremony On Friday, 10th November, the School gathered for its traditional Remembrance Day ceremony. The purpose of the event is for us to gather as a community and reflect on the all those who have been affected by war, civil conflict and hardships born out of oppression. It is homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in such world events where the cost is dire and the consequences too challenging to understand.

As we revisited our heroes who courageously laid down their lives for the ideals of freedom and peace, the

significance of our collective memory takes center stage.

The event invited a number reader to delve into the profound lessons embedded in the remembrance, highlighting not just the bravery and sacrifice witnessed during conflicts, but also contemplating a world envisioned in the aftermath-one where diplomacy prevails, transforming discord into harmony, and fostering a lasting peace for all individuals.

This year we heard from three poems. The first was Thomas

McGrath's poem, "Ode for the American Dead in Asia." In it McGrath mourns the loss of American soldiers in the Korean War and criticises the misguided bravery fueled by "false flags of bravery and ignorance." The poet condemns the "safe commanders," using nature imagery to underscore the soldiers' ignorance and portraying their deaths as tragic and futile casualties of war. The second poem, Yehuda Amichai's "Wild Peace," was presented at the 1994 Nobel Peace Prize ceremonies in Oslo to honor Israeli leaders Yitzhak Rabin and Shimon Peres, and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat for their efforts in achieving peace.

Amichai wrote the poem over 20 years prior, envisioning peace as a necessity that requires active nurturing and protection. He commends the leaders for their courage and emphasizes the importance of proactive efforts for peace rather than passive waiting.

Amichai dreams of peace currently lie in tatters but the poem does inspire hope and maintains a vision for enduring peace. The last poem was slightly more cynical and referred and cautioned against a passive observation of where the speaker admits to being indifferent during a conflict, living unaffectedly in the safety of the United States as their armies reigned over terror in other world areas.

The poem prompts reflection

on the consequences of such apathy, questioning how individuals, like the speaker, contribute to love, kindness, justice, and peace.

The choir sang the anthem Ukuthula. "Ukuthula," is a South African was written during the apartheid regime in South Africa. It means "peace" in isi Zulu, it symbolizes hope and resistance. Its choral rendition became a global cultural emblem, echoing a plea for justice and peace. Other pieces of music included Amazing Grace by John Newton, played by the brass ensemble and the string ensemble played a March by Henry Purcell.

The Headmaster concluded the service by emphasising the importance of remembering the hard-fought freedom and independence of nations, urging individuals and communities to uphold values such as liberty, justice, and compassion. He highlighted the need to actively contribute to positive change and strive for a world characterized by peace, justice, and love.

Remembrance Day can be portrayed as a collective duty to honour those affected by war and also to work towards a future where peace prevails over the horrors of war.

Mark Durston Headmaster

04.

Peponi House Science Q&A The afternoon's program started with a brief presentation on the many learning opportunities and experiences offered at Peponi School(P2) by our Science teachers, Mr. Backhouse and Mr. Odundo, to the Peponi House (P1) Year 7 pupils. The pupils then got to witness a scientific demonstration that included the famous elephant toothpaste experiment. The result astounded and impressed the pupils, who were eager to learn why the observed quick reactions occurred. They were given a thorough explanation of the idea of catalysts in both organic and inorganic reactions.

Following that, a select group of former Peponi House pupils who are currently enrolled in Peponi School had the chance to speak one-on-one to about their experiences thus far at Peponi School with the Peponi House pupils. The way in which Diva K, Claire N, Nahla J, Oscar L, Mukiri M, and Aayan A described and illustrated the daily routine at Peponi School

Simon Odundo 05.

Teacher of Physics

was superb and commendable. Pupils at Peponi House were curious about a variety of topics, including daily routines, teaching and learning possibilities both inside and outside of the classroom, the variety of sporting options accessible to them, the use of phones by students, and life in the boarding houses.

At the end of the event, the Peponi House Year Seven pupils who had not previously visited the Peponi school expressed excitement about visiting and experiencing it for themselves.

06.

Sedge House Experience

“Starting high school is an especially scary experience especially at a new school, but from the moment I walked into Sedge house I felt welcomed and like I had a community I could always go to.”

Zaydee Mae

“Boarding has been a very educative experience and took some getting used to but it has proved to be a learning curve and enhances my personality to become a better person. It has especially proved that it helps people make many more friends.”

Arav Patel

“Boarding has been great this term because I have made lots of amazing friends!”

Michelle Owor

Enrolling at Peponi School marked a fresh chapter in my life, one marked by newfound independence. It has been a journey of adventures, with its fair share of ups and downs, and there are many more experiences to anticipate.

Most importantly, I have acquired new knowledge and forged meaningful friendships—essential aspects of this transformative period in my life.

Rohini Shah

07.

Peponi School Art Competition 2023 This year’s theme was Duality. The Heads of House led their teams successfully and worked tirelessly to complete their displays. As always, the entries were inspiring and demonstrated great technical and creative skill. This year, Jipe emerged as the winners. Their House piece was an innovative piece, complete with lighting effects. Well done Jipe!

Below are some highlights from the exhibition:

Betty Wakhu Teacher of Art

�IPE HOUSE PIECE 2023

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Report From the Music Department We are delighted that our pupils continue to have the opportunity to perform in events and concerts both in and out of school, including major venues in Nairobi.

At the end of September, both Charlotte Ngure & Tanya Haria took part in the Cellobration concert at the Kenya National Theatre. In October, we then hosted the Young Vocalist’s Competition at Peponi School.

Although it was only the third edition of this event, I was delighted that there was a 50% increase in the number of competitors. Similarly, the Finalists came from nine different schools. On our part, the following pupils reached the Finals amidst fierce competition in the Intermediate Solo category: Raahi Shah, Tamara Oganga and Saiyana Pandya. Well done to all three girls!

As we have come to expect, November is normally a very busy musical month. On Friday 10th November, the School Choir, Brass Ensemble & String Ensemble performed at the Remembrance Service with Taha Jivanji (Trumpet) playing The Last Post and The Rouse and then, over the weekend, Ruchi Raja (Violin) took part in the Nairobi Orchestra concerts at Sabis International School in Runda.

The following week, on Thursday 16th November, both Peponi House and Peponi School collaborated to

present the annual Joint Peponi Schools’ Concert. In addition to our ensembles (Staff Choir, School Choir, String Ensemble, Brass Ensemble & Orchestra), our soloists did us proud, namely Kwame Abuga (Piano), Amani Munene (Alto Saxophone), Aria Taylor (Harp) & Charlotte Ngure (Cello). Our Lower 5th band also took to the stage consisting of Raahi Shah, Saneeka Haria, Mukiri Mugambi, Dhyan Khimasia and Taha Jivanji. The final piece in the concert was Adiemus by Karl Jenkins which featured over 180 performers on stage! Well done to all our participants and we look forward to the next edition in November 2024 at Peponi School.

Throughout the term we have also seen the continued success of the Tea-time concerts which have featured a number of debut performances from across the different year groups.

Congratulations to all who took part in any way this term.

Next term is just as busy, if not busier!

James Laight

Director of Music and Creative Arts

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11.

Mentorship Programme Building Supportive Communities in School

Having a mentor is akin to navigating a vast ocean with a seasoned captain by your side. In the journey of learning and growth, their guidance becomes the compass that not only points you in the right direction but also empowers you to chart your course with confidence and purpose.

"Mentoring is about sharing experiences, skills, and knowledge, and providing guidance and support, but it's also about learning, growing, and discovering new perspectives together."

The mentorship programme was initiated with the goal of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all new pupils. It brings together Upper VI, Shell, and Form II pupils to walk the journey of senior school together.

The programme kicked off at the beginning of the term with an outdoor retreat at Paradise Lost.

The mentors and mentees had an opportunity to engage with each other in a fun, adventurous environment. For the rest of the term, they met weekly through a structured programme that allowed them to learn from each other, have conversations, and play together.

The programme has helped to foster positive relationships and a sense of belonging for the mentees. It has also provided an opportunity for the mentors to develop leadership and relationship-building skills.

Feedback from parents and mentees revealed that the programme had been useful in the development of a supportive peer community within the school.

Michelle Wanjiku School Counsellor

12.

World Scholars Cup Once again, our pupils took part in the World Scholars Conference competition and performed impressively well both at the Global Round in London and at the Tournament of Champions in Yale. The theme “Reconstructing the World" forced the pupils to consider the trends that we need to discard and the ones we need to honour. Top on everybody’s mind was CHATGPT, which is definitely on everyone's mind.

London Global Round.

At the Global Round in London, our top team was made up of Michelle Sigei, Amani Munene and Imani Musau. Michelle was the top scholar from Peponi School winning 9 medals and a trophy.

Yale- Tournament of Champions.

Despite the freezing temperature of Fall in Yale, our team put up a spirited fight and, as expected, scooped several medals. Our Junior team, made up of Wayne Njoroge, Diya Manji and Gabriella Musau won several medals. The top scholar from

last day, as usual, we had a tour of New York City and enjoyed our visit to the Statue of Liberty.

We are looking forward to another exciting World Scholars round with new and enthusiastic pupils.

Our Ballerina.

Although not known to many, Juhi Nanji of LVLOA is an expert ballerina who not only performs in concerts but has risen to the level of being a ballet dance instructor for young children. Her passion for ballet is legendary but very demanding. We commend her for her stellar performance over the last two weekends.

the Senior team was Hamzah Mohsen who mastered the booster pack and helped me train the other pupils. Hamzah was also the flag bearer for Yemen- his country of origin.

Well done, Hamzah. On the 13.

Lillian Ayatta

Teacher of English

Message from our Gap Students Harry Dawson From Cheltenham, in the UK, where I have been at school for the past 10 years. I have a passion for travelling, which inevitably made me jump at the opportunity to come out to Kenya, as it was somewhere I had never visited, but always been eager to explore. Being in Kenya has enabled me to enjoy my other passions, one of which is nature and the environment, of which Kenya of course has loads to offer, the other is sport. Whilst I am missing playing rugby, From teaching music (not my forté) to 70 eleven year olds, to the tranquility of Samburu National Park; from Ndini Primary School to SMART Days, it’s been fantastic. Next September I join Durham University, to read Geography (Bsc), with my options open for the future but keeping an eye on the field of renewable energy. Thank you for having me Peponi!

Joe Coley I was born in Cheltenham and have lived and grown up there for 19 years. I'm in Kenya because, having never visited the continent before, I wanted to experience a different culture to the UK, and it has not disappointed.

While here I had hoped to create lasting memories: one favourite experience thus far would have to be climbing Mt Longonot with the President's Award team and savouring the views. People around me both here and on our travels have made this Kenyan experience so much more enjoyable - and amazing weather has helped…! I am a very passionate sportsman and love to exercise. After a poor ODI Day World Cup from England, I am still dearly in love with the sport and cannot wait to get playing again.

Next year I am looking forward to studying Real Estate Management at Reading University.

14.

Inter-House Senior Debate Competition The Inter-House Senior Debate came to a close on Tuesday, 5th December, with Chala successfully defending their title. The debate started on a high note with the debaters going full throttle .

Top debaters from the Houses were:

from Elementaita; Amara Pannu was the torchbearer for Jipe and finally, Ryan Gontier's team carried the day with his team, 3 years in a row. Well done Chala House!

The debates were of such high calibre and a testimony to a very confident group of ladies and gentlemen that we are grooming..

Shlok Saini and Sahiir Dewany were the best speakers from Magadi; Ruchi Raja was the best speaker

15.

Lillian Ayatta

Teacher of English

16.

Lower V Exploration Day Report compiled by Ivan Nalima [ M - Lower V ]

Date: Tuesday 7th – Wednesday 8th October 2023 Location: Nkasiri Adventure Camp- Kitengela As Lower V pupils, we were all looking forward to a trip full of adventure. All of us were dressed in outdoor gear and home clothes, ready to start our adventure. We had been briefed by our tutors on what to carry and wear for the trip and had been advised to carry clothes for wet weather. We all met at the car park for registration and packing of the buses and before long, we were on our way.

The journey to Kitengela was without incidence and it took us two hours and a half hours and by the time we arrived, most of us were hungry.

On arrival at camp, the instructors of Nkasiri adventure camp, welcomed us and we were briefed on the program and given a tour of the camp. We then had some snacks and refreshments from school and thereafter, went into team building activities with the instructors. They were fun, interactive and we totally enjoyed ourselves.

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We had a late lunch since we took some time to settle into our tent accommodation. The afternoon program which took place after lunch, involved three different activities namely; High ropes course and zip lining, archery and water activities at the pool area. The afternoon went by very quickly as all of us were engaged doing the various activities. The High ropes course was very scary and challenging. It had 3 levels, easy, moderate and difficult and honestly I thought all were difficult. The zip lining at the end of it all, was a lot of fun.

Later in the evening, we had dinner, and afterwards, we had some downtime, where we listened to music and stories while others played card games.

The following morning began early with a short walk to watch the sunrise. A handful of us awoke and went on the walk with Mr Kanyiri and Ms

Isidora. We took some photos and made it back in time for breakfast.

After breakfast, we packed our luggage in the buses and then had a session of activities on the high ropes course and team building games. We finished the activity session around Noon. And Lunch was served. It was a sumptuous meal of pasta.

We departed Nkasiri adventure camp at 12:30p.m and headed back to Peponi school. The trip was fun and I got to make new friends as well as face my fears on the ropes course. I would like to thanks all the teachers for accompanying us on the trip.

We had a lot of fun.

Lower VI Exploration Trip Report compiled by Cidi Kazungu [ J - Lower VI ]

Date: Wednesday, 8th October 2023 Location: Malewa/ Elementaita On Wednesday, 8th October 2023, the entire year group of Peponi Lower VI pupils and their tutors, left Peponi School during early morning hours for Malewa Camp near Gilgil town. The journey to Gilgil was uneventful and we arrived at Malewa Camp at 12.40pm.

After being welcomed by Ms. Christine and the Instructors team, we had a briefing and overview of the day’s program and immediately got into the activities. The activities included a low and high ropes course and team building activities.

My group began with the low ropes and the activity required us to work closely together. The teambuilding activities were also a lot of fun and we got to solve challenging problems as a team. Our instructors were fun and instructive and my group managed to score high points in the challenges set.

The food served at lunch was a great treat. We were all famished after the long bus ride and morning set of challenging activities and we ate to our fill.

push themselves to the utmost limit.

We left Malewa camp late and drove to Lake Elementaita’s Pelican Lodge. It was a great relief to finally freshen up and stay in nice rooms at the Hotel.

After dinner, most of us listened to music and chatted stories to each other. It was great to spend time together as a year group.

The following morning after breakfast, we had a leadership session with our teachers which took the better part of the morning. We had early lunch and left for Peponi school promptly at 12.30pm. I wish to thank the teachers for organising the trip and I hope to make it on more fun packed adrenaline trips.

After lunch, we resumed activities and a lot of us found the high ropes course scary and challenging. However, it was great fun and I saw many of my peers

18.

Shell Exploration Day Report compiled by Reyan Bulsara [ C - Shell ]

Date: Tuesday 7th – Wednesday 8th October 2023 Location: Naretunoi Conservancy - Kitengela The day commenced with buses dropping us at school.

All Shell pupils donned outdoor attire and hiking boots, prepared to embark on our adventure. Our tutors had briefed us on what to carry and wear for the day.

Promptly at 8:00 am, we all gathered at the car park for registration and bus packing.

After the teachers' briefing, our great adventure began.

The journey to Kitengela was incident-free. The wild and pristine landscape of Naretunoi Conservancy was breathtaking. The expansive plains bordering Nairobi National Park offered enchanting and relaxing views. The journey took two and a half hours, and by the time we arrived, most of us were hungry.

Upon arrival at camp, the Naretunoi instructors welcomed us and briefed us on the program and the area's history. We enjoyed snacks and refreshments from school before engaging in team-building activities with the instructors, which were fun-filled.

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After lunch and some downtime, we embarked on an interesting and educational tour to a local homestead, witnessing the Lion Lights Phenomenon.

The Lion Lights initiative, conceptualised by a young Maasai boy, involves setting up alternate flashing lights to deter wild carnivorous animals from attacking livestock at night, reducing human-animal conflict and economic losses.

In the evening, after a sumptuous dinner, we watched a conservation video and listened to a presentation highlighting projects undertaken to preserve wildlife and conserve vegetation and water bodies within the Athi River area. By the bonfire, we shared music, jokes, stories, and recounted our life adventures.

The following morning, we started early with a pristine forest walk, tracking and observing animals. Listening to the forest guide, we learned to read and interpret animal footprints and vegetation cover. On the way back to camp, we

conducted a clean-up, collecting over 5 sacks of trash to help maintain and preserve the ecology of the area.

After breakfast, we packed the buses and enjoyed an hour of fun and games.

Then, we headed to a children's home, interacting, bonding, and handing over various donations. The highlight was a football game, where the enthusiastic and skilled children won.

Departing at 12 noon, we returned to Peponi school. I thoroughly enjoyed the trip outside school and spending time with friends.

Many thanks to Mr. Odundo and the teachers for accompanying and organising the trip. We had a lot of fun!

20.

Peponi Explorers Society Team Report compiled by Annita Lutalala [ J - Lower VI ]

Date: 3rd – 4th November 2023 Location: Chania falls/ Sagana/ Mukurweini The Peponi Explorers Society Team (PESTs) embarked on an engaging adventure to the Mukurweini/Sagana area from the 3rd to the 4th of November 2023. The diverse group, spanning Year 8 to Upper Six pupils, gathered on a Friday morning at 8:00 a.m. with a cautious note about potential wet weather during the ongoing rainy season.

After assembling in the car park, we headed to Mugutha dam in Ruiru for kayaking and boating. The Tropical camp, our kayaking venue, offered a serene setting. Paired and equipped with water activity gear, under the patient guidance of our instructor, a team of 12 pupils quickly learned kayaking skills. The surroundings, featuring papyrus reeds and diverse bird species, added to the scenic beauty. After kayaking, we had snacks before departing for Blue Post Hotel in Thika.

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Arriving close to midday, we explored scenic forest trails along the Chania River, witnessing two waterfalls and traversing a manmade banana plantation. We continued to Sagana camp, settling down for lunch by the River Tana. Post-lunch, we engaged in the thrilling zip-lining activity, followed by a journey to our camp, Wajee Camp, marked by heavy rain raising camping concerns.

Upon reaching camp, the rain subsided, allowing us to settle in without incident.

Despite the sodden ground, our teachers found a large building for accommodation. We spent the evening playing games, listening to music, and chatting by the bonfire. A delicious dinner, courtesy of our school chef, preceded a warm cup of chocolate before retiring for the night.

The rain persisted throughout.

The following morning, we awoke to a bright, clear day filled with bird songs. After

breakfast, we embarked on a forest walk, learning about bird species and plants. A highlight was the 'Tarzan challenge' on a hanging tree. After the walk, we broke camp, had a cold lunch, and departed promptly at 1:00 p.m. for Peponi School.

This trip, featuring kayaking, zip-lining, and exploration with fellow Peponi schoolmates, offered memorable adventures. I look forward to more trips with my newfound friends.

President’s Award Silver Expedition to Mount Longonot On Friday 13th October a group of pupils in the Lower and Upper Fifth Form embarked on their Silver expedition to Mount Longonot in the Rift Valley. They spent three days trekking up and around the crater of Mt. Longonot, as well as exploring the leleshwa forest in the foothills. They showed good determination and teamwork and all successfully completed the expedition. They also enjoyed experiencing the wildlife of the area with sightings of giraffes and chameleons being appreciated by all.

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Peponi Explorers Society Trip to Wajee Camp On the 3rd of November a group of pupils across all year groups went on a trip to Wajee Camp near Nyeri.

This trip was for them to experience nature, learn about wildlife and explore some scenic areas in this beautiful part of the country. On the way they got to see some waterfalls near Thika and in Wajee itself they got to hike through the forest, looking for rare birds and other forms of wildlife. On a night walk they got to see bush babies jumping through the trees. Despite the heavy rain, the pupils showed good spirit and the experience was positive for all.

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Michaelmas Term Sports Report U14 Athletics at ISK: ◦

A couple of weeks ago, our U14 team travelled to ISK for an athletics meet. The team consisted of a balanced blend of both sprinters and distance runners as well as some strong athletes out in the field.

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Our Shell sprinters took the limelight, led

by Neema, Teshan, David, Victoria, Nathan, Tizita, Kimeu and Victoire, all putting their best foot forward to produce memorable performances.

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Some notable performances are worth

mentioning by Neema in the 100m at 13.2s and David in the 200m at 26.0s who fed dust to their competitors to finish first with high-ranking times. ◦

KAISSO Tennis at RVA: ◦

On a damp morning Saturday, the Peponi tennis team, undeterred by the weather, journeyed to RVA with a full competitive squad of nine players for the KAISSO tournament.

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Michelle and Akira exhibited outstanding synergy and skill in the mixed doubles category, securing results that would go on to contribute significantly to the teams’ success.

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Reyan Bulsara and Dylan Combrinck formed an impressive partnership, emerging as the overall doubles champions.

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Whereas Abhay displayed exceptional individual prowess, finishing third in the

A particular mention to Andy Ngugi in the relays, who really did carry the team in his leg of the 4x400m to regain the lead from the back of the pack.

singles category. His performance earned crucial points for the Peponi team, asserting our strong grip of the KAISSO title. ◦

Often, we overlook the concept of teamship in supposed individual sports, yet it is their collective resilience and ability as a team that secured the series of victories required to build our status as one of the top institutions for tennis in East Africa, and to retain the KAISSO tennis shield.

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Amidst challenging weather conditions at the KAISSO tennis tournament, our players displayed more than just resilience; they demonstrated a competitive spirit that weathered the storm and saw Peponi retain the KAISSO title for the fourth consecutive occasion.

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Michaelmas Term Sports Report ...continued

Junior & enior Swimming meet at ISK:

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Luca Keya won 1 gold and 1 silver

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Kairav Patel won 1 gold, 1 silver and 1 bronze

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Aman Ladak won 2 gold

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Rianna N Shah won 1 gold and 1 silver

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Carlo Blunsum won 2 gold and 1 silver

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The meet was highly competitive, but the team still performed exceptionally, nonetheless. It was actually quite refreshing to finally see some shared success amongst the team, which – contrary to tradition – the boys had actually been the most successful team, winning the third-placed trophy.

Can the following come to collect their medals from the Headmaster, followed by Carlo to collect the trophy: -

Darsh Shah won 1 bronze

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Harnek Singh won 1 silver and 1 bronze

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Neema Ruwa won 2 silver

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The underdog triumph of the boys' swimming team, led by the ever-reliable Carlo Blunsum, added a touch of magic to the terms’ swimming programme, reinforcing the unpredictable nature and outcomes that only really sport is able to offer.

KAISSO U19 netball at St. Andrew’s Turi:

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Following some notable performances in the pool stages, with three 9-point difference wins, the girls topped the pool for a semi-final clash against BGE. Motivated by their recent loss to BGE in the tournament, the Peponi girls entered the match with all guns blazing, emerging victorious and earning a spot in the finals against the hosts, Turi.

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In the first half of the final, Peponi worked to silence the home crowd by securing a two-goal lead. However, as the game progressed, the girls conceded a series of goals – and the lead – to an inspired Turi side. Unfortunately, this turnaround from Turi denied Peponi a well-deserved title after what had otherwise been a successful netball season.

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Despite the disappointment, the girls this season have acquired some valuable game-winning – and game-losing – knowledge and experience.

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Michaelmas Term Sports Report ...continued

Cross Country ◦

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One of our prides in our sports programme in recent years has become the presence of great runners in our school. We have experienced a good amount of success in cross country events and this season has been no different for our younger year groups.

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On Friday 29th September, the team travelled to Rosslyn, where the U15 girls rose to victory, securing the first placed-trophy, and at the same time, Reyan Bulsara also won the U15 boys' category

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The second meet in the term 1 series of cross-country events was the coveted KAISSO event, held here at Peponi last Saturday. This time, it was the under 15 boys who secured the category win, led by Reyan Bulsara's (second) first-placed finish.

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We just wanted to highlight the importance of the team in cross country - at the finish, 24th & 25th in the finish order was fought between Peponi and Rosslyn with 2 points between them. Had Peponi conceded their position to Rosslyn, Peponi would not have won the category.

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The sports department would also like to give a big thank you to the volunteers who helped with the smooth running of the event - no matter how small you feel that your impact is, it is still a noticeable impact and is a valued part of the sports programme at Peponi.

Michaelmas Term Sports Report ...continued

Netball ◦

After missing out on the semifinals twice last year, Our netball teams were determined to perform better in this year's BGE Netball tournament.

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The senior team, led by Muia, succeeded in improving on last year's performance by making into the final thanks to impressive wins, including a dominant victory over Hillcrest in the group stages.

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The U15 side had a strong start, winning all their opening matches. However, their hopes were dashed when they narrowly lost to BGE by a single goal in a crucial match required for semi-finals qualification.

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In the semis, the U19 team showcased one of their best-ever performances, defeating Hillcrest by seven goals. Muia and Yzeera impeccable shooting and the solid defence of Ruth, Gabby, Wandia, Netania and Kario Karani proved instrumental in keeping Hillcrest at bay.

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Their victory earned them a spot in the finals against the hosts, BGE. They were eager to secure a long-awaited netball title, and the first half seemed promising as they took a one-goal lead.

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However, in the second half, the support from the home ground began to catch up with the girls, and the hosts began to capitalise on easy scoring opportunities.

Despite a promising comeback, they finished the finals two goals down.

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Netball, a period of time in our history for marked improvement, as led by Muia Kasyima, unfolded a narrative of both progress and positive attitudes. The seniors’ journey to the finals, though commendable, hinted at the nuances of growth and development within our teams.

ISK Tennis Tournament ◦

At the 2023 annual ISK tennis tournament, we had 12 players representing Peponi, with 4 in the singles categories and 8 in the doubles. The single-elimination format added excitement and pressure, with every match being make-or-break. This was one of the first competitions for a while where our tennis team has experienced a very well-matched and tough competition that will hopefully set them in good stead for the KAISSO tournament preparations over the next week or so.

◦

Our doubles team, consisting of Heema and Aarav finished in a very competitive fourth place. Whereas our captain, Abhay excelled in the singles competition, showing exceptional skill and determination to defeat some top opponents, and really having to fight his way into the final. In the championship match, he narrowly missed 1st place and finished 2nd in a brilliantly drawn-out series of games.

28.

Michaelmas Term Sports Report ...continued

Athletics ◦

The Braeburn Kasarani Meet is often one of the biggest competitions on our school sporting calendar, and this year was no exception with a full junior team, topped up by a core group of top senior athletes.

◦

Neema (LVth) and Atona (UVth) both continue to perform in the 100m as now part of a well-bolstered sprints team along with the likes of Clare (LVth) and Shayan (UVth) in the 200m. Future title contenders are emerging at strength, to include our top young athletes such as Teshan, David, Shashwat, Aman, Tizita and Maia. The future is indeed bright at this stage.

◦

This year saw a notable record broken in the senior boys’ discus event, with no other athlete having ever thrown the disc further than Kai Ndubai on this occasion, over 27 metres.

◦

In the closely contested cross-country events, the teamwork of our athletes spoke volumes, echoing the importance of collaboration and the life lessons and magic moments embedded in every race. A notable mention must go to Shell pupil, Reyan Bulsara, who obliterated the House cross country 5km record, and who went on to win the KAISSO meet, playing a significant part in the boys’ U15 team who emerged top of their category. We thank you Simarveer Sagoo in his own personal leadership style, the team has responded to his call with intent this year, and we look forward to seeing the results of his tenure for another year to come.

Director of Sport

29.

◦

As we reflect on another term of sporting achievements at Peponi, a subtle tapestry of dedication, skill, and competitive spirit is emerging across various disciplines. In the athletic arena, our junior teams, supported by our senior teams showcased not just prowess in performance but a quiet commitment to the Peponi sporting ethos.

◦

We express gratitude to our young sportsmen and women for their steadfast commitment, our coaches for their subtle guidance, and parents for their ever-important support. Let's carry the growing spirit of this term's accomplishments into the well-deserved break, and here's to continued growth, the understated victories, and the unwritten chapters of success that lie ahead in the next term.

Michaelmas Term Sports Report ...continued

House Sport:

KAISSO Sport:

◦

Senior boys’ football – Chala

◦

Open Tennis – 1st place

◦

Junior boys’ football – Chala

◦

1st VII Netball – 2nd place

◦

Senior girls’ netball – Elementaita

◦

U15A football – 2nd place

◦

Junior girls’ netball – Elementaita

◦

Girls’ athletics – Elementaita

◦

Chala – boys House Cricket winners for both Junior & Senior.

◦

Boys’ athletics – Chala

◦

◦

Cross country – Chala

Jipe – Junior girls House Cricket winners

◦

Elementaita – Senior girls House Cricket winners

Colours: Netball Full Colours

1.

2.

Muia Kasyima Ruth Njenga

Half Colours

1.

2.

3.

Wandia Karimi Kario Karani Netania Mwaura

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Thandie Muya Yzeera Sebunya Maya Kinuthia Njeri Kibuchi Aica Omulen Clare Ndegwa Imani Musau

Junior Colours

Basketball

1.

Sofia Ejuku-Ejalu

Cricket

Athletics

1.

Saavir Karania

1.

2.

3.

Aman Shah 1.

Prinay Galaiya 2.

Hritik Choudhery

1.

2.

3.

Dhruv Sumaria Yuv Galaiya Rian Shah

1.

2.

Kalya Limo Atona Matta

Cross Country

1.

Kalya Limo

Neema Ruwa Clare Ndegwa

Dayne Massey

Director of Sport

30.

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