The Qatar Shirburnian 2019/2020

OUR VALUES

Respect, Honesty, Kindness, Perseverance, Responsibility and Teamwork.

OUR MISSION

Well-educated, well-rounded individuals who have high aspirations and achieve their potential, in a happy and nurturing school.

WITH THANKS

The Qatar Shirburnian was made possible by the outstanding creativity and hard work of many people in the school community. We are grateful to all pupils and staff who have contributed to this edition.

Book designed and produced by SHERBORNE QATAR Marketing. With special thanks to Mrs. Emma Keefe for copy editing.

Maryam Al Helou - Year 11

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

SUMMARY OF THE YEAR

REMOTE LEARNING

IN MEMORY OF ALBANDRI

YEAR 7

YEAR 8

YEAR 9

YEAR 10

YEAR 11

SIXTH FORM

YEAR 12

YEAR 13

ARABIC & ISLAMIC STUDIES

QATAR HISTORY & CITIZENSHIP

ICT & COMPUTER SCIENCE

LEADERSHIP

ENRICHMENT

MODEL UNITED NATIONS

DEBATING

QATAR

TRIPS ABROAD

SHERBORNE GIRLS' VISIT

Our History

Sherborne School is an independent boys’ boarding school re-founded in 1550 under a royal charter granted by King Edward VI. It has grown into a modern school of nearly 600 pupils and about 100 teaching staff. Surrounded by the bustling market town, the school attracts pupils from across the world. Shirburnians follow a diverse range of careers at the highest levels and include diplomats, bishops, politicians, journalists, actors, poets, and musicians.

Sherborne Preparatory School is an independent co-educational school for children aged 3-13 years. The school has a long and distinguished history and an enviable academic reputation as a feeder to many of England’s leading independent schools.

Sherborne Qatar was founded in 2009 and is a joint venture between Sherborne School and Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Thani. Members of the Qatari royal family such as the Emir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, have attended Sherborne and Sheikh Abdullah and his wife Sheikha Amal have sent some of their sons there too.

Sheikh Abdulla was keen that Sherborne should join him in a partnership to bring to Qatar education opportunities and values that he had seen and liked at Sherborne. He says: “Ahmed our oldest son was transformed by Sherborne. The school’s approach helped him to discover different talents in himself and he was greatly nourished by the experience. We

are extremely grateful for what a Sherborne education has given him. Sherborne has history, culture, discipline and a willingness to transform a child. That is what it did for our child and that is what we want to give to Qatar. We need to bring a more structured educational experience to our country. Qatar needs Sherborne’s culture, experience and tradition.”

Sherborne Qatar is a founding member of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education Outstanding Schools Initiative and is overseen by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education Private Schools Office. Sherborne Qatar is a self-financed, not-for-profit school with its own Board of Governors, of which Sherborne School has half of the appointed membership. Its ethos, brand and educational standards are overseen by and aligned to Sherborne School.

THE PRINCIPAL FROM

My old Latin Master’s favourite saying was Carpe Diem a phrase that was made famous by Robin Williams in the 1989 Film Dead Poet’s Society and which is often translated as meaning, seize the day. In these difficult and unprecedented times, this advice seems much more profound and relevant today than it did 40 years ago in the old, often cold, Latin classroom of my old school.

In this magazine we celebrate and remember the successes of the last year, the special days and the special opportunities that so many pupils have seized, enjoyed and excelled at over the year.

The academic year of 2019 – 2020, a year in which we celebrated our 10th birthday, has been an exciting year. Perhaps, interesting would be a better way to describe the last year; but however we look back at the last 12 months, there is no getting away from the fact it has also been a challenging year.

The COVID-19 pandemic, that has affected so many people in so many countries, has immediately changed the way we teach and will continue to change many aspects of education for the foreseeable future. The lockdown has forced all schools to look at the way they deliver lessons and the way they interact with their pupils and parents. However, good schools, like Sherborne Qatar, will use the experiences they have learnt over recent months to improve the quality of education they offer their pupils in the longer term, especially around the use of technology and pupil engagement. The lockdown has confirmed the need for pupil interaction with friends and teachers and e-Learning has proved that a computer cannot replace an outstanding teacher. However, when everything has settled down again, the new skills which staff have acquired will certainly be utilised in the future presentation of learning materials.

I must say a few ‘thank yous’: firstly to all the parents for their continued support of the schools, to the pupils for their enthusiasm, commitment and imagination whilst working remotely and to the outstanding teachers who, during the school closure, produced engaging lessons, arranged individual pupil sessions, organised a virtual green day, produced virtual music recitals and performances and even ran virtual House days. Truly, we have been united in separation.

I would also like to acknowledge the wonderful work of some of our unsung heroes: the cleaning teams from Acciona, the security men led by the excellent Kapila and our medical teams have all done a terrific job in difficult circumstances and they deserve the thanks of our whole community.

I must also thank our Qatari owners, Sharaka Education, our Chair of Governors, Sheikha Noura Al Thani, The Ministry of Education and Sherborne UK; thank you all for your continued support and advice.

As I mentioned, this has been an exciting year; schools are and should be exciting places, but we have also faced unforeseen challenges this year. We started on a high with the preparations for our 10th birthday celebrations but at the start of term we received the tragic news that one of our teaching colleagues, Mrs Afi Ahmed, had passed away. Mrs Ahmed taught in the Prep School for eight years and she was a friend to many staff, past and present. She was also much admired by many parents and pupils. Afi’s Garden and the Afi Ahmed Sports Day Trophy will ensure that she is not forgotten. Tragically, this sad news was followed with the heart-breaking news that one of our senior school pupils, Albandri, had also passed away. It was a very difficult time for family, friends, pupils and teachers; in fact, for all those who were affected by the loss of their friends and colleagues it reinforces once again the vital need for human support and understanding in troubled and difficult times.

I would like to congratulate Mrs. Jane Goldsack on her appointment as the founding Headmistress of Sherborne Qatar School for Girls. Jane joined us in April (albeit remotely from Spain) and is preparing for the opening of the new school which will have a STEM focus and a wealth of facilities, including science and technology labs, libraries, performance and assembly spaces and excellent sports facilities, including a 25m swimming pool and tennis courts.

I must also take this opportunity to thank Mrs. Pauline Puddicombe who is retiring as our Bursar and returning to the UK. Pauline has been a valued colleague and friend and it is difficult to thank her properly for the commitment that she has shown the school over the last five years. Put simply, the school would not be in the position it is today without her leadership, guidance and prudent financial planning. I wish Pauline, David and their boys every success in the future and Pauline and David a happy retirement.

Finally, please can I take this chance to encourage every pupil at Sherborne to get involved in as many aspects and areas of school life as possible. The lockdown, which has caused so much frustration and feelings of isolation for so many people, demonstrates that we must take every positive opportunity that is presented to us and, especially as these opportunities may be taken away from us, we must not waste any potential gift or experience and seize every chance that is presented to us, whether academic, musical, pastoral, sporting or artistic.

Please, I encourage you all to Seize the Day.

Nick Prowse - Principal and CEO

Summary of the year

Despite the impact of the coronavirus the 2019/20 academic year has still been a great year. In this section I am not going to refer much to school since it was closed to pupils in early March. I have written a separate section on the impact of the coronavirus.

We are in unprecedented times, and for a large part of the year we have not been operating as normal, and sadly pupils have not been afforded the usual opportunities, but the purpose of this section is to reflect on our achievements and how we continue to grow together.

Our mission remains to cultivate ‘Well educated, well rounded individuals who have high aspirations and achieve their potential, in a happy and nurturing school’.

Central to achieving our mission is the value we place on pastoral care and giving pupils a wealth of opportunities outside the classroom – schools should see this as equal in importance as academic success.

At the heart of what we do has always been our core values: Respect, Honesty, Kindness, Perseverance, Responsibility and Teamwork. The six values are the essence of Sherborne Qatar and reflect how we live and work. These values, particularly perseverance, are so important in the current climate and have been demonstrated in abundance by pupils, teachers and parents alike.

At Sherborne Qatar we have a holistic approach to education. We aim to promote the ambitions of the whole child and cater for the needs of each individual pupil. As part of this philosophy, pupil well-being and happiness remains our first priority.

Our strength as a school remains our high-quality pastoral care, excellent teachers (leading to great examination results), our extensive enrichment programme and our community/family feel (which is supported by our commitment to charity & service and our Inter-House activities).

At the start of the 2019/20 academic year we welcomed the following teachers into the Sherborne Community:

Mrs. Andronikos - Learning Support Assistant

Mrs. Ashiq - Teacher of English

Mr. Collins - Teacher of Business/ICT *

Mr. Hamlin - Head of Sixth Form

Miss McGowan - Teacher of Mathematics

Ms. McKend - Teacher of French & Spanish

Miss O’Neill - Teacher of Games/PE

Mrs. Oshodi - Mathematics, Second in Dept.

Miss Reid - Teacher of Psychology & Sociology *

Mr. Talafha - Teacher of Arabic & Islamic Studies *

Mrs. Walkington - Teacher of English *

Mr. Wolfe - Learning Support Teacher *

Mrs. Wolfe - Head of Performing Arts *

* new positions because of the schools continued growth.

Senior School Staff – 2019/2020

There have been many academic successes this year and, despite the cancellation of external examinations due to the coronavirus, we expect this year’s I/GCSE, AS Level and A Levels results to be as strong, if not better, than recent years.

In August 2019 we were delighted to share some excellent examination results. 37% of all I/ GCSE grades achieved by our pupils in May/June 2019 were the top 9 to 7 grades (compared with just 21% in the UK). 87% of all grades were a Grade 4 or higher (equivalent to a C grade or higher). In comparison, in the UK 67% of all grades were a Grade 4 or higher in August 2019. 7% of our pupils got straight A/A*s (with all their grades being between 9 and 7).

The AS results in August 2019 were also very good, with the previous year’s improvements being largely sustained. August 2019 saw our first set of AS Level Media and AS Level Politics results, with pupils achieving an average point score above the school average in these two subjects.

As you may recall, last summer in the UK the top A Level grades fell to their lowest level in more than a decade (26% of A Level grades were A* or A - the lowest since 2007). However, at Sherborne Qatar we celebrated an amazing 39% of all our grades being A* or A.

67% of all our pupils’ grades were in the A* to B range and 82% of all grades were in the A* to C range. These were the best A Level results to date. In total, 58% of our pupils achieved at least one grade A/A* in their A Levels.

In August 2019 we also celebrated the first set of results for our new BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Business. This programme, which was introduced in September 2018, is taken over one year (in Year 12) and is equivalent to 1 A Level. Our pupils achieved a 100% pass rate (with 3 Distinctions, 1 Merit and 3 Passes).

After some amazing individual performances at A Level in August 2019 our ex-pupils are now finishing the first year of their degree courses in leading universities in the UK and worldwide.

Sherborne Qatar Sixth Form has an excellent record of guiding and supporting its pupils through the university application process, helping them obtain places at high ranking universities across the world. Last year’s Sixth Form graduates, from both Years 12 and Year 13, were successful in gaining places to a variety of universities to study a wide range of different degree courses.

We are delighted that after an impressive set of results, our pupils gained places at outstanding institutions including:

Durham University, UK – Maths, Business and Economics; King’s College, UK – History; Manchester University, UK –Medicine; University College London (UCL), UK – Bio-medical Science; Queen Mary University, UK – International Business; Aberdeen University, UK – Genetics & Immunology; Brunel University, UK - Games Design; University of Westminster, UK - Nutrition; Queensland University, Australia – Education; University of the Andres, Bogota, Colombia –Architecture & Engineering; Ontario College of Art & Design (OCAD), Toronto, Canada – Advertising & Creative Industry; University of Padua, Italy – Psychology; NHL Stenden University, Holland – Business Management; Sligo Institute of Technology, Sligo, Republic of Ireland – Business & Sport; Texas A&M, Qatar - Engineering; Carnegie Mellon University, Qatar – Computational Biology, Engineering; Georgetown University, Qatar – International Economics; Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), Qatar – Art.

Sherborne Qatar Sixth Form is proud of its pupils and their achievements; we wish them every success as they embark on the next stage of their educational journeys and thank them for their contributions to Sherborne Qatar over the years.

We are always delighted to hear from our ex-pupils when they make contact to update us on their progress. Many ex-pupils also pop into school to personally to catch-up with their old teachers.

Academic excellence was also evidenced among our younger pupils in May 2020 when the latest PISA results were published. The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) is a worldwide study by the OECD that measures the academic performance of 15-year-old pupils in the three areas reading, maths and science.

Sherborne Qatar pupils significantly out-performed schools in Qatar, similar schools to ours and the average of all OECD schools that were surveyed worldwide in all three areas.

Reading Performance

Maths Performance Science Performance

Key:

Red = OECD average

Blue = Qatar average

Green = Sherborne Qatar

Yellow = similar schools to Sherborne Qatar

As the school continues to grow from strength to strength, pupil numbers rose to the highest to date this academic year. 2019/20 also saw the introduction into Key Stage 4 of Economics, Media, Psychology and Sociology.

The Senior School now excitedly looks forward to the next chapter in our development with the move to our new stateof-the-art site in September 2021. Neither the excitement, or construction of the site, have been dampened by the recent pandemic.

We are confident that the model of education that will be offered in the Senior School when it relocates next to the Mall of Qatar will successfully marry the benefits of single-sex education and co-educational environments. The new site will provide our pupils with a wider range of options in Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5, and all pupils will benefit greatly from enhanced sporting facilities, social areas and teaching areas.

In the next Qatar Shirburnian I expect to be able to show finished pictures of our new site in advance of our relocation in time for September 2021.

Architects' rendering of the new site from the front of the school

At the heart of good school like Sherborne Qatar are the teachers, and I am privileged to work with so many caring, dedicated and knowledgeable teachers. Good teachers provide guidance, they nurture potential and they embrace the strengths of pupils.

Celebrating success and giving thanks is an important part of being at Sherborne Qatar. We have had to approach things a little differently since March and normally Commem. would be when I would publicly express our gratitude for the teaching staff for their continued hard work.

Commem. would also be our opportunity for us to say goodbye to the teachers that are sadly leaving at the end of the year. At the time of writing this we are planning to record Commem. this year, as we did for the Term 2 Achievement Awards, but, in case I do not have the opportunity to do so then, below are the teachers that are leaving us this year.

Mr. Burns, Director of Learning

Mrs. Burns Teacher of Mathematics

Mr. Carey, Learning Support Teacher

Mrs. Ghaith, Teacher of Arabic & Islamic Studies

Mrs. Basant Hasan, Teacher of Arabic & Islamic Studies

Mrs. Long, Head of MFL

Mrs. Oshodi, Teacher of Maths, Second in Department

Miss Patterson, Teacher of Science

Mrs. Williams, Teacher of Business

Each of the departing teachers has made a massive contribution to the school and we will really miss them. I particularly want to single out Mr. Burns for his energy, dedication and support. I have worked closely with Mr. Burns since joining Sherborne Qatar four years ago and, as Director of Learning and a key member of the school’s Senior Leadership Team, he has been played a crucial role in leading and developing the Senior School over the past 4 years.

Finally, I want to thank our wonderful pupils for all their efforts this year and the parents for their unwavering support.

I hope you enjoy reading ‘The Qatar Shirburnian 2019/20’ with all the highlights of the year.

It is a privilege and honour to be part of the Sherborne Community.

Kind regards,

Stephen Spicer - Headmaster

Remote Learning THE SUN WILL RISE

On 10th March schools in Qatar resorted to remote learning as part of the Government’s efforts to contain the coronavirus.

These are unprecedented times and we have had to continually adapt to best support our pupils, parents and teachers.

Our priority was to try to maintain a sense of routine, when much was uncertain. Some kind of normality in these uncertain times is crucial, so from the onset we set work each and every day in line with our pupils’ timetables.

Fortunately, we were in a strong position when the announcement to close schools was made as we had our virtual learning environment, Fusion, in place since September 2018 and, as such, this was already a routine part of our daily school lives.

I am so proud at how well teachers, pupils and parents have pulled together. Teaching and learning has continued and at a high standard despite the obstacles we have faced. Senior School teachers have made every effort to make each lesson engaging, varied and interactive.

“For myself I am an optimist - it does not seem to be much use being anything else.”

Winston Churchill

At the time of writing this the future is still uncertain, and we do not know how teaching and learning will look in the next academic year. What is certain is, as the saying goes, ‘the sun will rise’.

“You are braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

Christopher Robin

This too shall pass

It is a time to stay calm yet permit the occasional wobble. It is hard at times to shut out the voices of panic, but as the 13th-century Persian poet Rumi wrote in one of his proverbs “This too shall pass.”. We will get through this hardship.

To recycle a quote from the second Qatar Shirburnian, in the words of Angela Duckworth in these demanding times people need to “grow their grit”.

Thank you to all the staff at Sherborne Qatar; staff have pulled together and have been working harder than ever to support our pupils. Thank you parents for your support and understanding. Most of all, however, a massive thank you to our amazing pupils, we all miss having you in school.

I will bring this section of this year’s Qatar Shirburnian to a close with some further words from one of recent history’s most quoted people, and a personal favourite of mine, Winston Churchill “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.”

Take care, keep safe and look after those around you.

Stephen Spicer - Headmaster

Albandri Al Khayarin

This is part of a verse from the Holy Qur’an which is often repeated when a person passes away and leaves this earthly abode. Death in the Islamic faith is not seen as the end of a person’s life, rather it is the beginning of the next journey to meet God.

It was late October when the news of the sudden passing away of Albandri Al Khayarin of Year 10 shocked the school community. An assembly was organised on the following day at the Senior School. After Mr. Spicer informed the pupils about the sad news there was a recital from the Holy Qur’an followed by a two-minute silence after which there was a collective prayer made for Albandri.

In the weeks that followed the pupils and staff came together to create an Albandri committee to discuss various projects that could be done and named after Albandri. The main focus of this committee next academic year will be on raising funds for a mosque, in her name, in another part of the world.

Albandri was a much-loved pupil who will be missed by her teachers and her peers.

Indeed, we belong to God and to Him we shall return

Albandri has definitely left her mark on us all. Not just a loss to the school but also to the wider community of those who knew her. A smile that could not be forgotten and a legacy we hope that will live on. Our prayers are with her family who have lost a young life, a pain that may never be eased but fond memories that will help us all get through the pain.

Mr. Khan, Mathematics teacher

Albandri was very kind hearted and always thought about others before herself. She was very much loved by her friends and peers; she will be missed dearly.

Mr. Ahmed, Head of Moza House

A beautiful face, reflecting a permanent smile. "Yes Miss", she hardly said no. Her expression showed kindness and respect. A true lady. I have taught many pupils, but Albandri's face will stick into my mind forever. A gentle soul. You are missed deeply.

Mrs. Andronikos, Learning Support

Albandri was very giving and extremely charitable pupil. She had a good heart and was very caring. She had great humour, which would bring a smile to my face during our history lessons.

Mrs. Arif, History teacher

Albandri was a kind-hearted person. I never taught her but connected as she was intrigued, we shared the same family name. My last memory of her was during our Charity Week and that was the last time I saw her. Albandri told me how much she enjoyed taking part in the Charity Week at school. That day, along with her cousin Maha, she helped me organise tables, chairs and sold a number of cakes to the school community. I hope she will be rewarded for this.

What a wonderful memory of her!

Ms. Khayari, Head of Cook House

Albandri was a quiet, friendly and kind hearted pupil who always had a smile on her face. She was much loved by those around her. Although Albandri has indeed gone and left us, she is a reminder that life is short and that it should be lived with love and respect.

Mr. Rahman, Head of Arabic & Islamic Studies

YEAR 7

The first year of senior school can appear a daunting prospect; the transition from preparatory school is an academic milestone which no pupil will easily forget. For our current Year 7, I am hopeful that for many reasons this period of time will remain a happy memory for many years to come.

Year 7 pupils arrived in August, bringing with them the enthusiasm, kindness and willingness to learn that we all admire. They have adapted brilliantly, meeting the demands of senior school life with exemplary demonstrations of resilience and maturity. They have immersed themselves fully into all that Sherborne Qatar has to offer; whether academic, Inter-House or the enrichment program.

One particular highlight this year was the demonstration of teamwork witnessed in Term 1, as our Year 7 pupils entered into the “Fantasy Form League”. They worked tirelessly along with their tutors to win the league in their teams; a wonderful display of life, employability and leadership skills.

We are astounded by the positivity and persevering approach of our children which has continued through Term 1, Term 2 and even throughout the more challenging period of remote learning in Term 3. The year has left us with many success stories, a great number of impressed teachers and I am sure very proud parents.

Mrs. Williams - Head of Year 7

YEAR 8

Year 8 is very much a year when pupils begin to gain maturity and take steps away from being the ‘babies’ of the school. They have developed their study skills in the classroom and at home and we have taught a PSHE programme that helps develop their social skills, running workshops on bullying and cyber safety as well as a community volunteering activity with the litter collection visit to Aspire Park.

Olivia Keefe and Oliver Ewing Underwood have been two wonderful year reps who have intelligently articulated pupil views on how to improve the school and made suggestions for pastoral activities and trips.

We have witnessed some wonderful sporting and artistic performances both representing the school such as at the BSIQ games or Rhythm Explosion but also it has been very pleasing seeing our pupils taking part so wholeheartedly in the weekly Inter-House events across a range of different disciplines.

Of course, we only wish we could have seen more successes in the summer term but hopefully next year all pupils will gain new opportunities to showcase their talents.

It is often said that the young can adapt to changes better than older people and Year 8 have reacted and responded incredibly well to the changes that we have been forced to undergo since the lockdown started. The quality of some of the work produced by Year 8 has been outstanding and they have often led the way with the technology, coming up with new ideas and helping to inform teachers how they can learn best.

Helping others has been a real theme of the year group and in these unusual times, this is something I feel very proud of. We eagerly look forward to seeing their continued progress next year.

Mr. McKendry - Head of Year 8

YEAR 9

Year 9 is an important year for pupils; it is a time when they need to start considering their I/GCSE option choices which determine their future careers. These decisions require careful consideration so Year 9 have prepared to make their option choices in a number of ways.

Our first Year 9 PSHE session took place in October; during the afternoon, pupils were addressed by our subject heads who thoroughly outlined their I/GCSE courses. Heads of Departments explained to pupils the benefits of selecting their subjects and potential career opportunities available to them, should they continue to study certain subjects beyond I/GCSE. The afternoon was extremely useful in supporting Year 9 with their subject selections.

As Sherborne Qatar has recently introduced a number of new subjects at Key Stage 4, many pupils undertook ‘taster sessions’. These sessions took place in January and were made available to all pupils interested in studying: Psychology, Sociology, Business, Economics and Creative Media Production (BTEC). The sessions were very well attended by the majority of the cohort and pupils agreed that the sessions were invaluable in helping them make their option choices.

As a healthy body is believed to equal a healthy mind, Year 9 pupils have continued to participate in active sessions on a weekly basis during registration time. These sessions are aptly named ACTIV9. All pupils have participated in activities including: football, basketball, netball, bench ball and walking. Pupils have enjoyed the sessions and their engagement throughout the year.

It’s been a super but unusual year with our school closing in March. Year 9 have coped very well with these changes and the demands of remote learning; it has been great to see how committed Year 9 have been and how well they have adapted to becoming more independent learners.

Finally, overleaf, messages to Year 9 from myself and your tutors.

Mrs. Jones - Head of Year 9

It has been a pleasure to be 9A's form tutor this year. They are a lively group that come in to school every morning with a positive attitude, ready to learn.

Mr. Asif - Form 9A

It’s been a fantastic two years being the Tutor of 9B, well done to all of you for winning numerous awards academically and through a number of sports competitions.

Mrs. Malik - Form 9B

Well done 9D, I have really enjoyed supporting you through this very important year and I look forward to seeing you all next year

Miss McCormack - Form 9D

A group of joyous personalities who are special in their own right. A credit to Sherborne and its values.

Mr. Khan - Form 9C

Have a lovely summer 9E, it has been a pleasure being your form tutor this year.

Miss O’Neill - Form 9E

Finally, I want to congratulate you all on your commitment to Year 9; you have worked well during this very important year and you have coped extremely well with your online learning. I wish you the best of luck as you embark on your new journey into Year 10 and beyond and I will miss you all.

Mrs. Jones - Head of Year 9

Photograph by Ganna Boghdody

YEAR 10

The start of Year 10 is always a busy one. New pupils are welcomed with open arms and return along with all of our familiar faces following a long restful summer.

In Year 10 pupils are plunged straight into a streamlined timetable of subjects carefully chosen to suit their academic strengths knowing that at the end of the two year course, they are going to have to sit in a hall and take examinations that go a long way to determining what their futures will look like beyond the age of 16. By any stretch, this is a daunting prospect for a teenager with all of the distractions that this modern world has to offer.

The first half term is tough for a Year 10 pupil. They have many niggling little questions in the backs of their minds:

“Have I picked the right course?”, “Will I be able to keep up the pace in class?”, “Will I be able to keep up with my homework?”.

These questions and many more are asked by thousands upon thousands of school pupils around the world when they are at this stage of their school careers. I am delighted to say that, with a little help from a superb team of form tutors and teachers, the answers to all of these questions was a resounding “Yes”. Sherborne Qatar has school values woven into the fabric of all we do at the school and, without exception, the Year 10 pupils displayed many, if not all of these, as they settled into their courses and got the year off to a great start.

Within the blink of an eye, we were congratulating all of our effort and progress winners, special mention here must go to Muhammad Abdullahi & Ludan Tajeldin, and looking back at the term that was. The phrase “time flies by when you’re having fun” springs to mind as Year 10 pupils reflected on an extremely busy, yet enjoyable start to their I/GCSEs. The scary part about this is that they had now already completed 20% of their courses. Fortunately, Shirburnians are given solid academic foundations so they could approach term 2 with a great deal of optimism, safe in the knowledge that they were making progress towards those all important minimum expected targets - our baseline measure of success.

Term 2 was really split into two very distinct halves. We had the pre work experience weeks (more of this elsewhere in the Shirburnian) and the work done post work experience. Without wishing to repeat myself too much, I was very proud of all of our pupils when they were out working in the community. If you ever want to see what amazing looks like, please do invite one of our pupils into your workplace for the week, you will not be disappointed.

Following this experience a return to school life can take a little adjusting to but Year 10 quickly got back into the swing of things, taking great care to take the lessons they had learned from a busy working week and apply them to their everyday routines.

And then came remote learning. In addition to its high academic standards, Sherborne Qatar prides itself on highly successful pastoral system and at the heart of this is the pupils. The everyday things they do to interact with each other; the teamwork they regularly display; the empathy and support they show each other in class and those light-hearted moments that we all share during the course of a school day were all gone overnight. It has been an astonishing time, and one I hope we never experience again but one of the shining lights has been how the school community has responded.

Learning has continued apace, we were still able to congratulate our subject award winners, special mention here goes to Sajidah Osman and Ebunowula Adewumi. We just had to find another way to celebrate their success. Fortunately, in this digital age we were able to produce a short video showing a montage of messages from teachers and pupils. My sincere thanks to Uneiza Haque who represented Year 10 so eloquently.

The summer term has remained one for remote learning with all of its challenges. These are remarkable times and the Year 10 team look forward to the moment when we see the school community in its entirety. As your Head of Year, I feel it is important that the pupils know how proud we all are of them for the resilience and perseverance they have shown and we look forward to working with them all as we approach Year 11.

Mr. Oldridge - Head of Year 10

YEAR 11

It is my pleasure to announce that Year 11 pupils have finally reached a milestone after the trials and tribulations, sadness and grief, hard work and frustration, arguments and reconciliations, examinations and preparations that finally culminated to an unprecedented scenario of a ‘COVID-19 World’. A world where the daunting examinations towards which they were gearing would no longer take place.

a group of 77 vibrant, unique and individual personalities were undeterred: they demonstrated patience, resilience and quietly, in a dignified manner, they soldiered on with independent remote learning, adapting themselves to a new; albeit, a surreal environment.

Year 11 pupils have completed their Key Stage 4 journey with some great achievements and memories. Under very high expectations, they have continued to build on their strong foundation for the next milestone of their lives. I am extremely proud of the pupils who have flourished in numerous achievements in the academic, enrichment, sporting, House and PSHE activities. A special focus on building leadership among a vast majority of the pupils lead to planning and running a number of activities and educational sessions that were delivered by pupils themselves – thus honing their skills in building empathy, reliability, risk-taking and effective communication. Therefore, many of the PSHE workshops were run by pupil leaders with aplomb. I am particularly thankful to the School Council representatives for participating in decision-making process and creating awareness of pupil voice. One notable success has been the initiating and pioneering the Executive Committee of Model United Nations by some of our fantastic Year 11 delegates who have shown outstanding commitment to the world’s issues and proving themselves to be great ambassadors of Sherborne Qatar.

It is an exciting time for all pupils as they embark upon the next stage of their educational journey; at the same time, we bid farewell to some of our dear pupils who will be leaving school after the successful completion of Year 11. I wish them great success.

As my final message, I reiterate the message to all: Learning has not been done in vain. We all look forward to your results. At the beginning of Year 11, if you remember the ‘Carrot, Egg and Coffee’ story, then this is the time when the moral of the story is so apt: “Be the coffee bean when you are hit with an adverse situation. React like the coffee bean (in the water) to achieve your best flavour”.

Mrs. Hamlin - Head of Year 11

A farewell is not complete without the acknowledgement from an excellent team of pastoral tutors.

I have been with this Year group for the past 4 years at Sherborne Qatar and I have had the great pleasure of watching the pupils mature into the wonderful young men and women that they are quickly becoming. Over those 4 years, I hope B5 (my classroom) has become a place of familiarity and warmth. Form time is always entertaining and this room has become a hub where the pupils are free to voice their concerns and worries. The pupils in 11A make me very proud to be their form tutor; they are a fantastic support network for one another and they regularly display the school values of teamwork and kindness. I wish them the very best of luck with all of their future endeavours. It just leaves me to say my daily mantra (with which the pupils will be very familiar): 'Today is a big day, work hard and be kind.'

Mr. Ball - Form 11A

I would like to highlight how resilient the Year 11 pupils have had to become given the unprecedented situation. The way they have adapted to the changes and embraced the opportunities given to them has made me so proud. I´ve personally enjoyed seeing some of my tutees becoming so much more responsible and mature from the beginning of I/GCSE course. No doubt they will continue to succeed! I wish my tutor group all the best in the next stage of their journey.

Miss Cobo - Form 11B

WOW! What an eventful couple of years, 11C! You have all risen from strength to strength and I have witnessed you change from reserved, ‘unsure of yourself’, ‘not sure what it’s all about’ characters into mature and confident young adults. We have had some wonderful banter in the mornings (in between the adhoc chemistry tuition and some of you trying to escape form time!). Equally, it been quite a journey and you have embraced the challenges and overcome them.

Mrs. Sultana - Form 11C

During the last two years, I have had the pleasure and the privilege to watch you grow into an amazing group of young adults. You have ‘made’ my mornings, even if you never reminded me to finish my coffee until it was too cold to drink. You made me think when you asked questions about work on which you were stuck; revision on which you wanted help; even current affairs and the world in general.

However, I haven't missed saying these phrases:

Tuck your shirt in.

Tie your hair up.

How many earrings?

Where is your blazer?

Tie!

I hope you get the results that your work deserves, and I wish you and your families a safe and peaceful break. I look forward to seeing you at the end of August if you come back to join us for Sixth Form, and if you are leaving, I wish you success wherever you may go.

Mr. Tracey - Form 11D

A rather unfortunate turn of events took Year 11 by surprise while our GCSE exams loomed over us. Some of us took this news of no GCSE examinations with overwhelming relief, while others remained adamant that the examinations would be far more beneficial for us. Being the first group of people to experience this sort of situation, it was a confusing time. Nonetheless, our year pulled through the ordeal with flying colours and the sudden, dynamic change in our studying method didn't waiver the Year 11s.

Our two years of GCSE preparation has certainly not been the smoothest of journeys. With hindrances making their appearance here and there, it was easy to see why some became demotivated. But Year 11 brought to us new light and a fresh start. Pupils took the opportunity by the reins and as a result everybody made considerable improvements from their previous attainments of the former year.

For many of us though, the end of Year 11 marked the end of our time at Sherborne Qatar. The end of a very special era, which unfortunately ended in such a way that meant we could not say farewell to the leavers. But they must not dwell so heavily on that. Although it is quite a saddening prospect, the end of the leavers’ time at Sherborne is simply the end of the beginning; to them, I say that a new chapter begins in your book. What it may ensue, nobody knows, but wherever you find yourselves, remember to take this new opportunity by the reins, however it presents itself to you.

Talha Ubaid Ghauri

At the beginning of the year I was looking forward to improving my performance in preparation for IGCSEs and Sherborne Qatar gave me that. Once they announced remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to continue improving my performance. But to my surprise, Sherborne bounced back from that setback very well as remote learning in our school ensures that we are getting all the support we need. I wish my classmates the best of luck moving on. Hopefully, I’ll see you all next year.

Abdulrahman Mustafawi

My favourite memory from Year 11 was getting to spend everyday of school with my best friends while learning and preparing for the next chapter in our lives. I wish everyone in Year 11 all the best and hope to keep in touch with those who are leaving the school. I have some unforgettable memories of this year and am very grateful for what this year has taught me.

Noora Al Thani

After a long year of hard work and studying, this wasn't really the end of the school year that anyone would have expected; it is a shame that many friends will have left to their future Sixth Form without being able to say goodbye. However, we will all cherish the memories and laughter we had together as a year group. I believe we had a wonderful balance between working hard and having fun throughout the years in Sherborne. A memory that I will be fond of would be the experience we had on the International Award desert trip: we learnt many things but most important of all, we all had so much fun together; of course, the long walks were tiring, but the memories made were worth it...

Daniel Ventorim

Year 11 has been my favourite year so far. It has been incredibly difficult and stressful but I've been surrounded by the best of friends and teachers who have supported me and helped make this an unforgettable year that has been filled with a great deal of laughter and has taught me so much. It pains me that it has come to an end but I've made a lot of amazing memories that I will cherish forever and I've made friends for life.

Karima Salem

Being a pupil in Year 11 at Sherborne Qatar has enabled me to excel, not only academically, but also socially. I am sincerely grateful to the wonderful teachers at Sherborne, who have ensured that I have been equipped with the best set of tools to help me succeed academically and in my future endeavours.

Dujanah Ahmad

Our favourite memory was the day the bag was never misplaced; the shoes that were thrown at each other and the laughs that made us roll on the ground.

Fatma Nasralla, Safia Yousef & Hadeel Dossa

My favourite memory of the year would have to be Qatar National Day. It displayed how immersive our culture is and the celebrations that took pace were extremely enjoyable, especially when participating with friends.

Mikyle Khalid Awan

I learnt a few key messages, one of the most important is: ‘You must do the things you think you cannot do.’ Being a Shirburnian opened up horizons to plan my career path at the highest level and helpedplanning the next stage of my life. I will miss Sherborne very much as I move on with my education and will never forget it.

Ameerah Mariah Youssef

I want to thank all my teachers for their efforts towards my learning and success; I cannot express my gratitude into words. I am truly thankful for your help throughout these last two years. As Alexander the Great said: “I am indebted to my father for living, but my teacher for living well.”

Hadeel Dossa

Year 11 has proven to be an interesting year, for all of us! It's a year where we celebrate the milestone of passing our I/GCSEs and a stepping stone in the path towards our future aspirations. Personally, I gained a lot from my time in Year 11. I certainly learned the importance of hard work! I have had some amazing experiences with the senior band with Max, Natesh, J'Ouvert and Rachel. Arranging and hosting Rhythm Explosion with the band was a true highlight and was fantastic to have Sherborne Qatar host it. Even though there will be members of our year who are leaving without a proper chance of a goodbye, such as my good friend Ali, there are many of us who will be meeting again in August as we embark on the next stage of our education. Take care and stay safe and look forward to us all getting back to normal after the summer!

Joseph Lloyd

Year 11 has been quite the rollercoaster for all of us. From being stressed about mock examinations-to worrying about GCSE revision-to being stuck inside. Year 11 has been eventful. We all went into this year ready to work hard for what was our upcoming examinations and excited for the new chapter of starting Sixth Form. For some of us, it is our final year in Sherborne or in Qatar and it is a shame we have to spend the last few months of what was going to be a memorable year inside: not being able to see our friends or family. Due to unfortunate events of the new global pandemic, GCSE examinations have been cancelled which initially shocked us all as these examinations were what we had been working towards over the past two years. I hope everyone is safe in quarantine and I wish all the best to our peers who leave us next year.

Libby Wollaston, Year 11 School Council

We enjoyed Year 11 for many reasons: it was one of the last years we had together as a whole year group before people left for Sixth Form and we would all be separated. However, the PSHE days we had brought us together as a year group and allowed us to work together in groups we did not normally work in. They also helped take our minds off examinations. Year 11 taught us all how to prepare ourselves during hard times. Everyone in the year worked hard despite the current situation. For those leaving us, it'll be a year we can't forget thanks to all the memories from trips and the last minute revision we had together before each mock examination.

Nadeen Yosif Khalil & Rinal Al Khalifa

As the end of the school year draws near, I look back on my time at Sherborne Qatar with fond memories. I have been proud to represent my school at sporting events and MUN and have made great friends along the way. I wish all the pupils at Sherborne all the best for the future.

Aaron Swindell

SIXTH FORM

It is an absolute pleasure to be able to take this opportunity to briefly talk about our year in the Sixth Form at Sherborne Qatar. And what an eventful year it has been!

It has been an honour to have supported our Sixth Form pupils in the next stage of their journey. I have been impressed by the hard work, commitment and dedication of our Sixth Formers who have been role models to the rest of the school. Indeed, I am amazed at the resilience and good humour of our pupils, even through these difficult and uncertain times.

For our Year 12 pupils who have made the transition from the lower school, I would like to congratulate them for their contributions to the life of the Sixth Form this year. These contributions certainly mark them out as being a mature and resourceful group of pupils who are always willing to support our Shirburnian values. Indeed, the contributions from all our Sixth Form pupils, including Year 13, helped to ensure that our PSHE days were both informative as well as fun. Coupled with their efforts in supporting our charity weeks and raising money for our postponed Gala Dinner, it was an impressive and remarkable year all round.

For our Year 13 pupils, about to embark on the beginning of their adult lives, I would like to thank you all for the contributions, throughout your years at Sherborne Qatar, you have made, to making Sherborne the success it has become. It is through your mature and diligent approach to your studies that you will, I am sure, enjoy further success wherever you plan to study next year. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our head and deputy head boys and girls; Lucas Oldridge, Tommy Quinn, Laila Salem & Sophie Kakkad, for all your support and hard work this year. My first year at Sherborne would not have been as enjoyable as it was without your hard work and dedication.

And finally, to all of you leaving the Sixth Form this year, I would like to wish you every success in your endeavours for the future and hope that the values which you have demonstrated whilst in the Sixth Form help to inspire you to ever greater achievement.

You leave with all our very best wishes and hopes for the future.

Mr. Hamlin - Head of Sixth Form

SIXTH FORM MENTORING PROJECT

This academic year has seen the introduction of a mentoring project whereby pupils support their peers in preparing for their exams. This started in November when fourteen Year 12 pupils were buddied up with ten Year 11 pupils with the aim of helping them to prepare for their mock exams in January. This involved regular weekly target setting meetings and gave Year 11 pupils the chance to draw on the experiences of their mentors, and seek advice on how to manage their time, how to cope with exam pressure and how to remain active and the benefits of this. Following the mock exams, pupils were preparing for the summer examination series which saw Year 12 pupils delivering weekly talks about different topics in the lead up to final exams. Some of these included ‘Health body & Health mind’ and ‘last minute revision tips’. We hope to continue to roll this out next year across Years 11, 12 and 13.

Miss Price - Assistant Head of Sixth Form

TUTORS' MESSAGES TO YEAR 12

Dear 12A. Thank you for being so wonderful throughout the year. It’s a real shame we didn’t get to finish the year, but you really were such a great bunch of people. I really enjoyed our time together and wish you all the best in whatever you decide to do.

Mr. Leeder - Form 12A

It has been a pleasure to tutor 12B, where I got to know eagerly enthusiastic young adults who want to do so well in life. While trying hard to keep the lines short, I would like to thank you all for having made my life easy. You were all great individuals and acted very maturely in and around school. I know that you are all looking at careers in medicine, aviation, sports, science and business and I hope I bump into you again to listen at how you have all succeeded in life. Life is a marathon and while it is important that you focus hard on what you want to do, remember to focus even harder on what will make you happy!

Mr. Ranglall - Form 12B

12C is a Tutor Group full of personality and charm. The pupils have so much to offer, each of them unique, and I know that they will make their marks on the world in many different ways! Throughout the year, they have show resilience and determination to achieve their goals – these traits will stand them in good stead, especially in such uncertain times.

Mrs. Wolfe - Form 12C

Despite the very little time we got to know each other, you will know that I have genuinely enjoyed being your form tutor. I feel very privileged to have shared with you my first year at Sherborne Qatar. Being on your path to greater things has been memorable and I am certain that you are all destined to make your marks on this world. I expect at least a Prime Minister, an advocate for women’s rights, an ambassador and the new CEO of a global conglomerate to come out of 12D! Therefore, always remember that ‘your place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."

Ms. McKend - Form 12D

I hope you are all well and it is in these strange times that I find myself offering my very best wishes and good luck to you all in your next endeavours, be that continuing on with your education at Sherborne Qatar or elsewhere. I have enjoyed getting to know you and always looked forward to greeting and talking with you all in the morning.

I found a quote from the double Nobel Prize Winner (Physics and Chemistry), Marie Curie that particularly resonates with me that I would like to share given the circumstances we now find ourselves living in.

'Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less'.

Ms. Rudling - Form 12E

Effort leads to success’. That has been the motto of 13A that has carried us through the perilous times of applying to university and mock examinations. But you made it! And as result you have fantastic array of offers ranging from Medicine at Manchester, to Chemical Engineering at UCL and Politics and Philosophy at Glasgow. You have such exciting times ahead of you all. Enjoy every moment and don’t forget to keep in touch.

Ms. Gregory - Form 13A

Mrs. Williams would like to send her very best wishes to 13B. She is so proud of you all, preparing your university applications, working hard for your examinations…. all with a smile and a generous heart. Life has turned out very different to what we all expected this year, however, you will find your place in the world due to your resilience and spirit: “Be bold enough to use your voice, brave enough to listen to your heart, and you will live the life you’ve always imagined”.

Mrs. Williams - Form 13B

As individuals, you all have the most unique qualities however, as a tutor group you formulate the greatest synergy which has made you amazing tutees. It has truly been my pleasure to be your form tutor this academic year and see how you have all developed a greater responsibility to shape your futures. I wish you the best of luck in the next steps of your individual pathways and hope you continue to shine throughout all decisions you continue to make.

Mr. Collins - Form 13C

Congratulations for many incredible achievements this year: including the prestigious Colour Awards, many successful work experience placements and significant improvements in academic attainment. A huge well done to Hanley, Ivan, Abdullah, Eisha, Qabbas and Mallak; it was a pleasure to be your tutor. Sherborne Qatar and I will miss you but the world will love you!

Mrs. Walkington - Form 13D

Painting by Karla Hallett -

ARABIC & ISLAMIC STUDIES

The Arabic and Islamic Studies department continues to grow at the senior school. It has been a rather busy year, here are some of the highlights.

The department welcomed Mr. Talha at the beginning of the year and along with Miss Basant, Miss Nermin, Mr. Saleh, Mr. Mahmoud and Mr. Rahman the department offers a wide range of courses – Arabic as first and second language and Islamic Studies in Arabic and English are taught across all year groups.

In the first term pupils studying Arabic as a first language went on a trip to the Islamic Museum and Souq Waqif in order to see firsthand Qatari artifacts and how they are made by local tradesmen. On the last day of term, we had the traditional Qatar National Day celebrations where a local group came to sing and perform the traditional Razif dance in front of the school. The Qatari Ambassador to Russia, his excellency Mr. Fahad Al Attiyah, was our guest of honour. He spoke to the pupils about Qatar and more specifically about his job role as an Ambassador. Delicious food was of course on the menu, provided by the families of some of the local Qatari pupils.

During the second term, pupils were involved in the annual Qatar school Qur’an competition. Congratulations to everyone who participated and especially to Khadija and Maryam Ghaly who were recognised for reciting the Qur’an very well. Also, during the second term a group of pupils travelled with Mr. Eldemiry, Mr. Bassam and Mr. Rahman to Spain for the school trip. Pupils visited Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona, taking in many historical sites, whilst also visiting the famous Nou Camp and Bernabeu football stadiums.

The end of the second term and the last term of school saw the enforced closure of the school due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Arabic department shared a number of different competitions with the school community to keep them engaged during the month of Ramadan. The competitions included a weekly Qur’an recitation competition, calligraphy, art, short story writing and poetry. It was wonderful to see the pupils actively take part, and just as the blessed month of Ramadan arrived, it left like a distinguished guest.

We hope that we have the opportunity to embrace Ramadan again for many years to come, ameen!

Mr. Rahman - Head of Arabic & Islamic Studies

QATAR HISTORY & CITIZENSHIP

Whilst Qatari History stretches back to prehistoric times, the country has never changed more rapidly than at the present time and it’s important that pupils learn about and understand these changes.

In Qatar History all pupils in Years 7 to 9 have continued to learn about the history of the country but the full title of the subject is Qatar History and Citizenship and during a time of great change nationally, pupils have become really engaged with topics on how our society is changing.

Year 8 pupils had the opportunity to visit Bin Jelmood House in Msheireb, a museum dedicated to slavery; the pupils really enjoyed learning about the history of slavery in Qatar but also the modern issues surrounding the topic such as human trafficking and what Qatar is doing to combat these problems.

Since the blockade was imposed on Qatar in the Summer of 2017, Qatari society has changed dramatically and Year 9 pupils have investigated how politically and socially the country has undergone something of a renaissance.

Finally, as the 2022 World Cup hoves into view, Year 9 pupils have looked at how Qatar is preparing for the tournament and some of the challenges associated with it that Qatar is seeking to overcome.

Mr. McKendry - Head of Year 8

“It doesn’t matter where you’re from - or how you feel... There’s always peace in a strong cup of coffee.”

- Gabriel Bá, Daytripper

Art & Design

This year as we look back over our successes, we might all take a more reflective view. We have had some outstanding GCSE, AS and A level submissions and as usual a very dedicated cohort of young and inspiring artists. In this year’s edition I wanted to showcase artwork that celebrates and underpins Sherborne Qatar’s community spirit and ethos whilst creating artwork in challenging circumstances.

Producing artwork is always a journey of discovery and when creating canvasses for the Inter-House Competitions, none more so exciting. In Term 1, over a period of six weeks the Houses competed to produce in their ‘artistic teams’ two huge abstract canvasses in the style of the artist, Jackson Pollock. Every Inter-House session was a hive of fast paced activity, pupils working together collaboratively underpinning one of Sherborne’s core values, ‘Teamwork’. After much deliberation Moza was announced as overall winner.

We are proud to announce that Year 9 pupil Habiba Shehata was announced the overall winner in the Qatar Mall Competition in her age category. Many schools in Qatar entered the competition, Habiba collecting first prize in her age range. She produced an outstanding canvass in acrylics and watercolours for her depiction of Qatar at night. Habiba produced this at home, independently with no help or assistance from anyone which is testament to her own perseverance and artistic ability.

Throughout the year the department continues to develop links with the wider artistic community from the successful partnership with Qatar Museums and in particular with The Fire Station to the delivery of workshops during the Teachers Teaching Teachers Initiative. In addition, fostering the growth mindset ethos was the collaboration on the pupil led Instagram project in which pupils uploaded videos of their artistic creations whilst they inspire other young artists during the lockdown.

Embarking on an art course be it in Year 7 or Year 13 requires determination, perseverance, skill and a tenacious attitude and none more so during the circumstances that are currently upon us all. Young Year 8 Shirburnian artists, such as Ryan Kashif have seized the opportunity to explore ways to create art using new technologies during remote learning using screen-based media to Sheikha Al Khayareen and Zaara Syed with their imaginative and original macro photography. Year 10 pupil Molly Lashley is another example of a proactive independent remote learner. Molly submitted a fashion design for the Alexander McQueen Fashion House for their Rose dresses and since then her design was posted on their ‘Instagram story’ going viral world-wide.

Despite the difficult challenges pupils have faced you cannot stop the drive and the will to learn and above all ‘to create’. History is upon us and we find ourselves in an unfamiliar and challenging time. To create a piece of artwork is always about self-discovery but to complete a piece of artwork in isolation for weeks at a time is sheer gut-perseverance. The Art Department is immensely proud of the artwork the pupils have completed in isolation. It is in these times we see the true nature of our capabilities and creativity which the Year 10 GCSE artists in particular, have embraced with vigour, producing innovative artwork based around their personal projects.

The Art Department continues to celebrate being a part of the wider community and the core values that Sherborne represents. We look forward to supporting and encouraging the next group of young artists that will walk through our doors once again, very soon.

Ms. Rudling - Head of Art & Design

GCSE classwork

GCSE classwork

GCSE classwork

Arwa El Gammal - Year 11

Year 8 classwork

GCSE classwork

Karla Hallett - Year 13

Haya Abdelrahman - Year 13

Marwa Ansari - Year 11

Rodina Elbih - Year 11

Eisha Elahi - Year 13

Fatima Nasralla - Year 11

At Sherborne Qatar we strive to develop the creative minds of our learners in performing arts through exploration, critical thinking and curiosity. Pupils from all year groups have been encouraged to pursue a life-long love of the arts, both in and beyond the classroom.

As a form of self-expression, an act of creativity and an indicator of musical development, Year 7 pupils have composed their own music for a variety of scenes in the film ‘Wonder’. In Year 8 common classical composition techniques such as retrograde and inversion have been explored before creating original melodies. The study of the shapes and contours of the Jazz standard ‘Blue Monk’ proved to be an excellent stimulus for the pupils in Year 9 to experiment with pentatonic scales used in Blues and Jazz music.

In drama pupils have engaged in activities which unlocked their imaginations and developed the mindset of a performer whilst also upholding the school values. Year 7 pupils have enjoyed exploring storytelling creating suspense and mystery through the re-telling of ‘Darkwood Manor’. Humorous physicality and focus was used by Year 8 whilst learning about the traditions of Mask Work and Year 9 were challenged to create on the spot performances through spontaneous improvisation which required a great deal of respect and kindness towards other performers.

The Senior Drama Showcase highlighted the exceptional talent of the GCSE and A Level drama pupils, who performed original devised pieces along with extracts of the plays ‘My Mother Said I Never Should’; ‘Face the Play’ and ‘DNA’ to audiences of family, friends, teachers and peers. They exemplified what it means to be a performing artist by demonstrating artistic values such as resilience, risk-taking and discipline through their performances.

Alongside the learning in the classroom, there has been a real focus on providing performance and enrichment opportunities for our pupils beyond the curriculum.

The Joy in Performance concerts is a new initiative that gives all of our learners a platform to get comfortable with performing in front of an audience. These regular shows take place after school in our auditorium. Pupils of all abilities, whether they have been performing for five weeks or five years, have the chance to play a piece, demonstrate a scale, dance, or perform a poem or monologue for their friends, teachers and parents. The popularity of these shows has increased rapidly, due to a relaxed and informal atmosphere and we look forward to continuing next academic year.

DRAMA PRODUCTION

Since I have been in the string ensemble I have been given many oppurtunities to perform inside and outside of school. Being part of the string ensemble has really helped me become a better piano player and helped me in rhythm and beat.

Nuran

Abdalla - Year 7

Numerous instrumental and vocal lessons take place with visiting specialist teachers. Pupils have had the opportunity to enter for ABRSM and Rock School music exams, where we have seen some outstanding results that illustrate their commitment to their practice and development as musicians.

New bands have been formed through the enrichment program and it has been a delight to see young talent emerge alongside the more seasoned senior ensembles. Buskers corner has been a welcome addition to mornings in the Atrium with pupils from band club providing a motivating start to the day through live music before pupils go to their lessons.

As well as performing at the PTA Family Fun Day, Sports Day at Aspire, the South African Embassy performance at Katara, the Winter Concert and the Colours Celebration, we were delighted to be invited to perform alongside the Prep School at ‘Qatar’s Best Talent’ at the Mall of Qatar. The Senior Choir have gone from strength to strength this year in quality and numbers and did an excellent rendition of ‘Glorious’ and ‘Sing’ in front of a huge crowd of shoppers at the exciting and vibrant event at the Mall.

TO SUCCEED

The hugely successful annual Rhythm Explosion event was a highlight of the year and featured lively performances and musicians from the Qatar Music Academy, SEK International School and of course our own Sherborne Qatar Preparatory and Senior pupils. This event was a celebration of all things rhythm and featured collaborative ensembles as well as solo performances. Singers were joined by percussionists, guitarists, wind and brass to perform modern classics such as ‘Sway’ and ‘Can’t Buy Me Love’.

Before the transition to remote learning, rehearsals for the production of Oliver! were well underway and pupils worked tirelessly to put together an excellent show with acting, costumes, choreography, music and scenery. We were taken through a story of Dickensian life, love and suffering and, although the pupils did not get a chance to perform to an audience, their commitment and talent did not go unnoticed! We are very much looking forward to picking up again in the new academic year.

This has been an exciting, yet unprecedented year, not only the performing arts department, but our pupils have shown resilience and determination in the face of uncertainty. We are looking forward to seeing where their musical and dramatic journey takes them in the future.

This year I was given the opportunity to take part in the string ensemble and to take singing lessons. The singing lessons helped me to gain more confidence and I performed in front of an audience a few times. By being part of the string ensemble, I was able to perform many times, even at the Mall Of Qatar which was an amazing experience for me.

Daisy Kinnaird-Barr - Year 9

The Performing Arts Team

BUSINESS STUDIES & ECONOMICS

This year, the business studies and economics pupils continued to enjoy a range of learning techniques which allowed them to explore business concepts in exciting ways.

Year 11 pupils competed to see which team could make the most profit whilst pricing a new product called the ‘ibuddy’ through its life cycle. Pricing strategies is usually a topic which pupils find difficult to relate to, but this interactive game helped to cut through the definitions and ensured that pupils gained a clear understanding. Revenue, costs and profit all had to be calculated, leading up to an exciting climax of who made the right decisions at the right time.

Sixth Form pupils travelled to the Qatar based Coca Cola bottling plant in the autumn term to experience the quality and production process of a large multinational company. This involved a tour of the production facilities and viewing the bottling process for Arwa Water. This experience allowed the pupils to apply their knowledge to a real-life business context and then quench their thirst with a bottle of Coca Cola!

Sixth Form business studies pupils were set a task of considering the external influences that affect a business of their choice. They researched how political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental factors affecting a business can be planned for and gave examples of where businesses have had to react to a threat to the business. The businesses they analysed were wide ranging from Apple to Procter & Gamble. They produced a written report and presented this to the class using an interactive slideshow. Gaining an appreciation of real-world businesses is so important as it demonstrates that the subject is dynamic and happening all around us.

Miss McCormack - Head of Business Studies & Economics

GEOGRAPHY

The geography department had another fantastic year with over 86% of pupils achieving grades between 3-9 at IGCSE and an impressive 100% pass rate at A Level.

This success, alongside many others, is attributed to the hard work and dedication of both staff and pupils.

During the summer term and throughout the period of remote learning, teachers have ensured pupils have completed the exam content. Field investigations continued to be an important element of the geography curriculum at Sherborne Qatar and are vital in order to broaden pupils’ understanding of both the human and natural world. Year 12 pupils travelled around Doha to have a look at transportation issues and regeneration – they visited several sites ranging from Souq Waqif, the Corniche to the City Centre. Year 11 pupils travelled to Al Wakrah beach in January to investigate the impact of human and natural processes on the coastal environment. Year 9 pupils completed our very first virtual fieldwork project on Globalisation through remote learning.

As we approach the hosting of the World Cup in 2022, our Year 8 pupils have learned how Qatar is preparing to host the tournament. They have looked at why Qatar won the bid and how sustainability is a key component of “the planning and stadium building process". Year 10 headed off downtown Doha to investigate the inner-city redevelopment and regeneration. Whilst conducting fieldwork an absolute highlight was meeting His Highness the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Pupils were delighted by the opportunity to interview His Highness who gave them an insight into Souq Waqif and how he was responsible for building it!

This year, we also started the Eco Schools Programme which is initiative run by the QGBC (Qatar Green Building Council). Through the programme, young people experience a sense of achievement at being able to have a say in the environmental management policies of their schools, ultimately steering them towards certification and the prestige that comes with being awarded a Green Flag at the end of 2 years.

At the beginning of Term 2 we hosted a joint initiative with the MUN Club to raise funds to place recycling bins in every classroom, and to encourage both pupils and teachers to recycle. We hosted our second Eco Day this year when we raised over QAR 3,400 through baked goods and milkshake stalls, an Eco Fashion show and dodgeball tournament. This money will go towards future eco initiatives pupils would like to introduce around the school. We also had our first litter pick around the school campus, which Year 7 pupils in particular, thoroughly enjoyed.

It has been a vital year for geography with issues ranging from environment to sustainable development which proves that geography is an extremely relevant part of the curriculum.

Mrs.

Malik - Head of Geography

PSYCHOLOGY & SOCIOLOGY

This year has seen the introduction of psychology and sociology at GCSE at Sherborne Qatar. Both courses have proven very popular. Here is a snippet of our year.

In the first half of the year, Year 10 pupils really got to grips with their new subjects at GCSE. Psychology pupils were introduced to many theorists such as Dweck, Willingham, Gunderson and their favourite – Piaget! They explored the importance of upholding ethics by forming an ethics committee and made recommendations on Johnson’s ‘Monster’ study and Zimbardo’s Stanford Prison Experiment. They also videod their perspective on the nature/nurture debate in relation to psychological problems. On the back of learning about Carol Dweck’s growth mindset theory, some Year 10 pupils volunteered to mentor Year 7 pupils to help foster a growth mindset.

Sociology pupils have also been extremely busy. They have learnt about culture, identity and socialisation, theory and methods and the family, they are now embarking on social inequality. Pupils have also been introduced to many sociologists such as Emile Durkheim, Karl Marx and Talcott Parsons. They turned their hand to presenting the main methods used in sociological research and also competed in Dragons Den, where they had to pitch a study proposal to their classmates and myself.

The second half of the academic year has brought challenges with remote learning, however pupils have not ceased to amaze me with their resilience, creativity and hard work ethic. In psychology, pupils carried out an experiment which consolidated Research Methods. Research projects ranged from the Stroop Effect Challenge to investigating if music effects memory.

Going forward, the next academic year will see the introduction of A Level psychology and Year 11 pupils will sit their GCSE exams. All-in-all it has been a very successful and enjoyable first year for the psychology and sociology department.

Miss Reid - Head of Psychology & Sociology

HISTORY & POLITICS

2019/20 saw politics going into Year 13 and the continued development of our Year 7 skills unit to help with the transition to Senior School and our skills approach to learning.

In the first half of the year we were joined by armed services guests as our history I/GCSE and A Level pupils delivered our annual Remembrance Assembly.

Year 7 pupils tackled essays on the Roman Army and produced fantastic presentations on Roman life. Meanwhile, Year 8 pupils made amazing monuments to Elizabeth I and examined the use of propaganda in the Civil War.

Year 9 pupils immersed themselves in the moral questions surrounding conscription in WW1 and took part in a military tribunal role play. They heard the cases of conscientious objectors and compared the usefulness of primary accounts of the trenches with a contemporary video.

History I/GCSE pupils confronted the demands of timed examination questions and became adept at identifying key features, causes and consequences of events from the US Bonus Marches to the Cuban Missile Crisis.

A Level pupils looked at the long road taken in the USA and South Africa to establish peoples’ rights and freedoms, and grappled with different interpretations surrounding the Hot War in Asia.

Sixth Form politics pupils have debated Brexit, contemplated the results of the 2019 UK General Election and discussed the impact of COVID-19 on democracy in the UK. This is in addition to studying the US political systems, the Trump impeachment proceedings, and the results of the US Primaries.

The second half of the year has been a challenge for all, but spirits have not been dampened. We debated online the impact of the affirmative action programme on US Civil Rights, assessed the impact of Botha’s policy of ‘Total Strategy’ on ending apartheid in South Africa and ran a Treaty of Versailles simulation.

Ms. Gregory - Head of History & Politics

ICT & COMPUTER SCIENCE

5G is meant to revolutionize the way we go about our daily life. It has so much promises and even though Qatar has already started to implement new 5G infrastructures, we are yet to reap the benefit of such powerful technology.

According to Wired Guide, 5G promises download speed of 600 times faster than 4G phones and a 4K high definition movie would be downloaded in 25 seconds. However, most countries’ infrastructures are not yet ready for the 5G evolution. Once in full swing, our cars and houses will be equipped with wireless and internet enabled devices, that would be connected to 5G. Imagine your fridge alerting your grocery store that you are running out of milk! Or having interconnected driverless taxis! But this has brought a lot of arguments about the privacy of data and companies battling to win contracts in this field.

We always try and teach about emerging technologies, and recently in Year 9, we taught about Artificial Intelligence and Nanotechnology. Pupils showed great understanding on how these technologies are already part of our daily lives and it was also important to see how they can reflect on the effects of these new technologies in the society.

Computational thinking and programming have again been a pivotal part at Key Stage 3. Pupils continue to learn about block-based programming in Year 7, but then move to text based programming in Year 8 and above. We are using a variety of different ways to teach programming, such as Lego Mindstorm, Snap Programming, Scratch, Python, Flowgorithm and more recently Arduino. Being digital natives, it is important to educate our learners about the risks and precautions they should take. E-Safety is taught at different levels in KS3 and pupils learn and get to watch Ted Talks and reflect on numerous different scenarios. Other topics that we teach at KS3 are on how computer network and internet works, understanding parts and components of computers, 3D and graphic design, network security, encryption and spreadsheet.

In Key Stage 4 and 5, we offer both ICT and Computer Science, which are two very popular subjects. Computer Science is a dynamic and rapidly growing area, that offers careers in many different fields, from Computer Science Engineers to Computational Biologists. Our results have been very promising, with 100% A* to C at A Level in Computer Science.

We attended our first lego competition at the American School of Doha and we had many entrants. The children enjoyed building their robots during coding clubs and got the chance to compete against other robots in this amazing SumoBot competition. Later, we attended the WISE Summit 2019 at the QNCC and got the opportunity to experiment with different robots. To put icing on the cake, we were at the right moment and the right time, when we met and allowed to have pictures taken with Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser. The children were delighted with her warmth and this will always stick in their memory.

Mr. Ranglall - Head of ICT & Computer Science

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES

" La créativité est l’intelligence qui s’amuse La creatividad es la inteligencia divirtiéndose "

Albert Einstein

I suppose we all defer to the genius Albert Einstein when we want to confir m our own intellectual thoughts! Just to check that we are on right track! I wonder what his teachers were like. Were they imaginative, eccentric, and fun like us? Did he run around the school corridors with his classmates, looking for answers for a quiz / treasure hunt or clues to complex vocabulary? Did he dance Zumba with his Spanish teachers at lunchtime in the Atrium? Perhaps his masters were shockingly strict, forcing him to sit quietly and terribly still at his desk. Maybe Albert had to solve impossible grammar problems and mathematical equations in a dull and dreary classroom, devoid of colour, uplifting motivational quotations and flags. It must have been so bleak…

Admittedly, we will never truly know what Albert Einstein thought about his teachers - although we can use our imagination as it takes us everywhere. Nonetheless, what we do know for certain is how much he valued creativity and the power of the imagination, considering them both as the true sign of intelligence itself. This incredible creative iconoclast continues to inspire us with his words of wisdom decades later. As modern foreign language teachers in Sherborne, we hold his ideas on creativity on a pedestal, endeavouring to encourage ingenuity and creativity in language learning, both inside and outside the classroom. I think he would have loved to have been a pupil in Sherborne, where learning and fun going hand in hand, like good friends. Don’t you think so too?

Here at Sherborne Qatar school, having growth mindset culture is firmly at the fore of all we do. In the languages department, we continue our linguistic voyage to instill enthusiasm in languages; inspiring pupils to take responsibility for their learning, engaging them in higher-level thinking so that they become the critical thinkers of the future.

By looking at the photos, as well as some of the beautiful creative homework which the pupils have produced, I hope you all enjoy the fun moments we have shared this year. As the famous Irish poet, William Butler Yeats, once wrote “Education is not the filling of the pail but the lighting of the fire”. Without a shadow of a doubt, the pupils in the Spanish and French classes have had their imagination sparked over the academic year.

As I bid farewell to Sherborne Qatar to return home to my family in Ireland, I know that the talented MFL team and pupils will continue to unlock their imaginations and be filled to the brim with inspiration so that the future is filled with great Shirburnian leaders who will make this world a better, healthier and safer place.

Thank you everyone all for the wonderful memories.

Amusez-vous bien tout en apprenant!

Pasadlo pipa aprendiendo!

Have fun learning!

Mrs. Long - Head of MFL 2012-2020

SCIENCE

" If I have seen further, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants. "

Sir Isaac Newton

The Science department at Sherborne Qatar has had a remarkable year off the back of our best ever GCSE and A Level results last summer, most notably Noor Elsayed achieving the highest grade in Qatar for A Level biology. This success, alongside many others, is attributed to the hard work and dedication of both staff and pupils.

This academic year we successfully launched our medical club super curriculum, giving pupils who are passionate about the sciences an innovative opportunity to present TED Talks on a variety of areas in medicine. We were treated to topics ranging from regenerative medicine to radiography and I was truly blown away by the quality of these presentations as were all the staff and pupils who attended. My personal thanks to our inaugural President and Vice President of the Medical Club, Zakarya Ahmeda and Jana Elbanna, for the pivotal role they played in organising and promoting the talks to ensure high participation. Congratulations to all pupils who received Gold, Silver and Bronze awards for their attendance.

As a school, we took part in Doha College’s annual medical conference where pupils were able to showcase their talents by discussing complex biological theories in simple terms. It was truly inspiring to see pupils speaking with such passion about topics that ranged from cancer to mental health. With every passing year, Sherborne Qatar is getting closer to that elusive top-three finish that we are aspiring towards.

Another first for us was our Year 11 biology field trip to the Mangroves in Al Khor. Pupils were able to conduct their core practical investigation which looked at the distribution and abundance of native plant species in Qatar. Pupils also dedicated time to take part in conservation efforts to protect the Mangrove Forest due to its crucial role in carbon sequestration. Although Science Week was cut short due to the coronavirus outbreak, we were still able to have STEM explorers visit the school with their Sky Dome, a 360-degree science cinema experience. Year 7-10 pupils thoroughly enjoyed their journey through the universe. It was a shame that our Science Fair, for which many pupils had produced such exciting projects, could not go ahead. The science teachers look forward to seeing all this work in the next academic year.

On behalf of the Science department, I wish all our amazing pupils further success as they navigate their journey through the world of science at Sherborne Qatar.

Mr. Malik - Head of Science

MATHEMATICS

It has been another successful year within the mathematics department with two new members of staff joining the team building on the wide range of teaching strategies employed to our pupils.

We have continued to offer extra-curricular activities including a new ‘buddy’ initiative set up by Mr. Khan where selected pupils from Year 9 and 10 have offered support and guidance to Key Stage 3 pupils. The Maths Challenge club run by Miss Ebrahimi welcomed pupils from the lower school to improve their problem-solving skills. Both clubs have been successful in developing pupils’ confidence within the subject.

Over 90 pupils took part in this years Intermediate Maths Challenge. This is a challenge run for schools around the world requiring a high level of thinking. I am pleased to announce that we achieved 2 gold (Niranjan and Haneen), 3 silver and 12 bronze certificates. Well done to all of those involved.

In more recent times the transition to online learning has been challenging and as a department it has certainly taught us to be more creative and we will look to embed some of these technological advancements to benefit our pupils when we return to the classroom. For examination classes we would like to thank you all for embracing the changes to your learning in recent times; you have all been a credit to yourselves and the school. We would like to take this opportunity to wish you the very best in your futures.

It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to three members of our team this year; Mrs. Oshodi and Mr. & Mrs. Burns. All three have made a large impression on the department with their high level of subject knowledge and enthusiasm for mathematics. We wish them all the very best in their next exciting chapters.

Mr. Robinson - Head of Mathematics

ENGLISH

It’s fair to say that the phrase about living in ‘interesting times’ is euphemistic! What a year it has been. As I write this article, we are all on lockdown: most of the world, Qatar, the teaching staff and of course the pupils of Sherborne Qatar. We are living in unprecedented times and nothing will be quite the same again when we do emerge eventually from this state of distance teaching and forced isolation.

The English department staff have always had a reputation for being creative, but remote learning has stretched us to the limit too. Schemes of work have been rewritten, resources newly created and shared and the department’s Whatsapp group become our lifeline. Gone are the days of popping in to a colleague’s room to share ideas, fetch stationery or even have a moan. Instead it’s Zoom and Teams and MLTV. We miss our pupils, the classroom banter and the physicality of the school building. Up until mid-March and lockdown, the department had been extremely busy. We had just finished Book Week and the English corridors were still decorated in Dickensian England style with depictions of Victorian streets and even a table sporting a large pot of ‘gruel’ (courtesy of Mrs. Jones!) The Year 9 pupils had all spent a literary morning at the Prep school engaging with the younger pupils in reading and creative writing activities. The culmination of the week was when the English staff dressed up as characters from ‘Oliver Twist’ and gave the maths department a run for their money as the best dressed department on Literary Character Dress Up Day! Pupils and teachers alike took part and there were some amazing and outlandish outfits.

We also contributed to the Spoken Voice Inter-House competition where pupils in mixed year groups took part in reciting and performing poetry – some of which were quite epic. It was fabulous to hear poetry performed in this way, as music and sound effects were also added to enhance the deliveries.

Year 7 pupils were introduced to Shakespeare’s works this year, they also learned about the technicalities of PEER paragraphing and have begun to master the art of narrative writing. Some of their effective ghost stories, written under timed conditions as assessments, have been included here in the Shirburnian.

Year 8 pupils were exposed to the genre of dystopian writing. On reflection, it seems like a foreshadowing of what we are now experiencing with COVID-19. They also performed some poems in the auditorium as whole sets where every pupil was involved. This was challenging but also very successful. Mr. Ball’s set rehearsed a reduced version of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and were word perfect ready for their debut at Oryx School in term 3, when COVID-19 put an end to the plans to perform in front of Year 8 pupils from other schools. Maybe next year?

Year 9 pupils advanced and developed their creative and technical skills as they learned about infographics and volgs. The technical highlight of the year has to be the amazing travel vlogs created by the year group to depict a country or city that they had visited that year. The best of these were showcased by Miss Castaldo at a professional development demonstration for the rest of the academic staff.

Year 10 English First Language pupils had the dubious honour this year of being the first cohort of pupils to study a new syllabus from September 2019 onwards, as part of the department’s change of examination boards from Edexcel to CAIE. Again, the choice to study a dystopian novel, ‘1984’ by George Orwell, where he paints a pessimistic picture of society’s ability to avoid further global disasters, could not have been more prophetic!

Year 11 showed their mettle as they concluded their English Language and English Literature preparation via remote learning for the examinations-that-were-not-to-be. It was impressive to see their commitment during what can only have been a very stressful and unsettling experience.

Sixth Form pupils, of both Literature in English and English Language, made history too, as the cohort who would get offered university places without having written external examinations.

We have indeed, this academic year, lived, worked and studied our way through, as Dickens would have put it: ‘best of times and the worst of times’.

Miss Castaldo – Head of English

Creative Writing

Blessing.

By Tiara Osiago - Year 7

Today was filled with glee and hope that shined through all our pain and suffering: the darkness that cocooned us, was gone today. Light was all I could see, as God gifted us the present that flows deep within us and through our villagers’ hearts. Water had returned to our small, thirsty and arid community!

The day started normally. Our daily routines fell into place as the day went on and I could feel the fluentness as our small village came together. We were all dreaming of a day when water would finally come - hoping and praying; we were really struggling as families could not quench their thirsts. We all lived daily with dry mouths and as night came, we would dream of the intangible pour of water: it was only something we could wish for. I saw parents with stricken faces as their children took their last breaths from their tiny dehydrated bodies.

We were all deep in our grieving thoughts, as another wife, mother and dear friend passed on. More cries of grief could be heard. When would it come? When would we be saved? Would the pipe burst again and sing its miracle for our dying village?

Then a cry, so loud it was like a whistle averting everyone’s thoughts. Then a bustling sound as many people were hurrying outside. Soon gasps resonated through the village like a wave - a tidal wave gradually engulfing the shore. Everyone in our tent hurried outside, chatting and questioning this unusual behaviour coming

from other tents. We gasped in surprise, God had listened and we could not waste a drop.

The municipal water pipe had burst! The roar as the water gushed out was deafening, but sweet to our ears; it was like a song whistling through our bodies, giving me energy and power through its beautiful melody. ‘A voice of a kindly God’. A voice of a God that had gifted us. A voice with courage and persuasiveness that drew

I sprinted to my tent using the last bit of energy I had and I grabbed everything and anything: ‘brass, copper, aluminum, plastic buckets’. I frantically ran back to the pipe, ‘It can't be wasted!’ rang in my head as I repeated it over and over. I dashed in and out through the soaking children, who were jumping and dancing as smiles spread sticking to their joyous faces. I couldn’t help but grin as I passed the children who were now over the moon with happiness.

All of my community had gathered what they could to collect as much of this miracle as they could; pots and pans were scattered around as their ‘frantic hands’ held their receptacles to collect the water. Others cheered, danced and sang as they waited for their buckets to fill. After no light, there was now hope and our community shone for the first time since the terrible drought began. This precious beauty streaming out of the pipe was a ‘sudden rush of fortune’ that made us rich with delight, pleasure and jubilation.

This day will live in our history. The day we were saved from the terrible drought because the day after, God sent the rains.

By Zineddine Badis - Year 9

NEW YEAR FIREWORKS IN AUSTRALIA

Only the soft lapping waves of the tranquil sea and the subsonic orchestra of the ubiquitous cicadas, break the silence on this magical night. The audience is ambivalent; when will the light show commence? My thoughts are answered when a sudden streak of wild light bursts from the oxidized steel arches of the harbour bridge. The light fizzles and screams as it flies through the darkness and then with a resounding, balloon-like pop erupts into a plethora of stars. My eyes are taken aback by the controlled pandemonium exploding majestically across the blank canvas of the midnight sky. What will 2020 have in store for me?

By Hamza Baalousha

PUDDLES - Year 9

We went to an abandoned area near Sherborne. There was not a soul in sight, even on the streets! There were puddles everywhere and my brothers and I messed around with them. In the end we had to tie bags on our feet to protect the car mats.

Story behind this rock : we found planks and built a bridge to the rock but when I went on the rocks, my brothers pulled the planks back so I had to jump into muddy water to get back on land but I got them back.

By Sharifah Khadijah Shah - Year 7

A GHOST STORY

As she made her way back to home, she glanced around at the spindly trees and the slightly wet and tranquil atmosphere. Whenever she came back from work, she would take this route instead of the other, as this made her feel solace: it was as comfortable as laying in her warm, cosy bed.

Silently, she walked on and turned to her left, but then hesitated: she had heard a scream. What was that? Heart beating as fast as ever, she rushed over to where the horrifying screams were coming from. She ran and ran and then stopped again. Right before her eyes was a tall, dark figure - she couldn’t see his face - but he looked extremely eerie and ominous. He had unusually large feet and cold, icy eyes.

Instantly, the lean, hooded figure started to zoom away as he saw the young lady. At that moment she realised that the peculiar man had assaulted a poor girl (who looked like a teenager). The girl was unfortunately unconscious and badly wounded.

Frantically, her hands felt for her phone. She decided to dial the police, but at the same time she somewhat yearned to follow the man…

By Jibran

Ahmed - Year 9

CORONA POEM

This pandemic is slow, mind-numbing torture, For someone like me.

It clutches you by the throat then whispersIt’s the end you see.

It lets you go, then pierces you, Like a dagger in soft flesh.

It looks you in the eyes and thenAwaits your death.

It likes to watch you struggle and groan, As it engulfs you in pain. It attacks your lungs and throat and then, Leaves you insane.

It watches you choke and gag and fit, As you utter your last sentence,

Who ever knew this virus had, Such abhorrent intentions.

I peer outside and then I see,

How the streets are filled with vacancy, How the bustle of a city decays so fast, When the invisible killer, Is in its wrath.

Paranoia seeps into my skin, How can we let this monster win?

Spasms of pain litter my mind, How can this world go

So dull and blind?

This pandemic is slow, mind-numbing torture, For someone like me…

By Isabela Ventorim - Year 9

CORONAVIRUS VISUAL JOURNAL

Day 1 – 01.04.20

It is finally the last day of the term. Since I am completely focused and determined, I still have about 12 tasks to complete over the holiday. Only a couple are overdue and the rest are pending. However, it is pretty painful to open up Fusion and see I have 2 full days of work to complete.

Day 13 – 13.04.20

It’s my birthday today! I don’t feel very different to how I felt yesterday, but I’m glad I can finally say I’m 14. I can also say I have had a birthday in quarantine! That’ll be a great story to tell one day. My mum and I made a cake yesterday late at night so it was ready for today’s celebration. My big brother, who attends university in the UK, sent me a birthday card through the mail and it really does mean a lot to me to know that he took the time and effort just to send me a card. My family made this day so special for me and I really loved it.

Day 18 – 18.04.20

Please don’t call me crazy but, I genuinely miss school. Sure, I don’t miss waking up at 5:30am every day, but I do miss my friends and teachers. The two environments are so different but this experience is helping us become more independent learners.

I’m really looking forward to starting this new term and my goal is to have a better, more organised daily routine. I think this experience was really all I needed to realise that school plays a crucial role in our lives, and that it’s not completely a burden. School is school and it needs to be taken seriously.

By Maab

Elsheikh - Year 9

Child Labour

By Haneen Ortashi - Year 9

Child Labour

Leadership at sherborne qatar

In the words of Nelson Mandela, “The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow”. At Sherborne Qatar, we take the responsibility of developing the “leaders of tomorrow” very seriously. We are keen to create as many opportunities as possible for our pupils to develop and nurture their leadership skills, including being House Representatives, taking part in debates or MUN conferences, delivering talks as part of Medical Club, being Sixth Form Prefects meeting and greeting our wider community at parents’ evenings, or being members of the School Council and the “voice” of our young people.

School Council:

In 2019-2020, The School Council has continued to champion improvements to our school on behalf of their peers. Amongst other things, they have been instrumental in bringing changes to our canteen and canteen provider, negotiating a make-over of the Sixth Form common room, providing recycling bins in every classroom (in collaboration with Eco Club), leading on pupilled achievement assemblies and expanding the breadth of active lunchtime activities available to our pupils.

Year 7 – Malak Ezzeldin, Tamim Tahir

Year 8 – Olivia Keefe, Oliver Ewing Underwood.

Year 9 – Maryam Ghaly, Basel Elfaki.

Year 10 – Molly Lashley, Uneiza Haque.

Year 11 – Libby Wollaston, Dujanah Ahmad.

Year 12 – Sara Al Kubaisi, Jana Elbanna, Abdullah Darwish Fakhroo.

Year 13 – Laila Salem, Lucas Oldridge, Sophie Kakkad, Tommy Quinn.

New Leadership initiatives

Recognising the tremendous contribution that our pupils make as leaders in Prep School, Mrs. Williams has introduced a number of initiatives for pupils in Year 7 to ensure there is a clear leadership pathway between Prep School and Senior School. These include the “Leader in Me” and “Fantasy Form Leagues” both designed to develop common goals, responsibility and organisation skills. Similarly, pupils in Year 7 have enjoyed participating in Generation Amazing for the first time. This initiative is the human and social legacy programme initiated during Qatar’s successful bid for the FIFA World Cup in 2022. It uses the power of sport to positively impact lives, promoting a healthy and inclusive society, and creating sustainable social development and togetherness in local communities.

Further up the school, in 2019 Sherborne Qatar became the first school in the country to offer pupils the opportunity to achieve their Level 2 Qualification in Sports Leadership. The Award takes pupils on a journey to gain employability skills through various leadership experiences. The main focus is on communication, self-belief, teamwork, self-management and problem-solving.

Congratulations to the following pupils who become our first ever Level 2 Sports Leaders Award recipients. Amongst their many triumphs, recorded in their Learner Evidence Record, the pupils were involved in planning and delivering athletics and rugby festivals for our Prep School, some became scorers at the Doha Golf Masters 2019, other supported the running of enrichment and House events, and all of them helped train pupils from Prep to become Playground Leaders. In some cases, pupils logged over 60 hours of leadership and volunteering as Kit Carriers at the World Athletics Championship in Doha in October 2019, alongside other leaders from Year 10 and above.

Sports Leaders Level 2 Award:

Syed Zain Ali, Hanley Hilton, Abdullah Munir, Marcus Munjoma, Jack Oldridge, Lucas Oldridge, Laila Salem.

Volunteers at the World Championships:

Jana Elbanna, Jeyla Guliyeva, Karla Hallett, Abdelrahman Hassaan, Alex Head, Hanley Hilton, Adithya Jaganathan, Abdullah Khan, Ibrahim Khan, Sophie Kakkad, Oliver Kinnaird-Barr, Jack Oldridge, Lucas Oldridge, Laila Salem, Nikhil Santosh, Vivian Umoh

Staff Volunteers:

Mr. Broome, Mr. Keefe, Mr. Oldridge, Miss O Neill, Miss Price

Opening credits:

Baraah Ali, Jeyla Guliyeva, Marcus Munjoma, Jack Oldridge, Lucas Oldridge

The talents and skills of our pupils are inspiring, and even resulted in pupils in the Sixth Form from Sherborne Qatar appearing in, and doing the voice over for the opening credits for the BBC as part of their coverage of the Athletics World Championships.

Enrichment

Participating in enrichment has become a way of life for many pupils at Sherborne Qatar. Each year the number of pupils who participate increases. Throughout both terms spent in school we had up to 60 clubs running each week.

The range of enrichment clubs meant that we could meet the individual needs of all pupils. Some new additions this year included Rock Climbing for those thrill seekers, the Creative Writing Club where pupils were working on creating online blogs, Latin and Ballroom Dance was one for those with a flair for quick feet and good timing and the incredibly popular QAWS Volunteering Club for the animal lovers.

The musical enrichment clubs have grown this year with both Choir and Band Club performing for school assemblies and events. Some of the best attended clubs were Model United Nations, The Debating Society and Photography who all have over 20 pupils attended every week.

Each year we look to improve our enrichment provision and this year has been no exception with over 70% of pupils attending enrichment sessions. We are still expanding what we have on offer, as well as improving the quality of what has been delivered.

This year we purchased new instruments for Band Club, new touch rugby equipment, additional gym equipment for the Fitness and Cross Fit Clubs as well as new chess equipment. We believe that we offer the best enrichment in Qatar and will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.

Photography

Photography Enrichment

Club has had another popular year and has again been very well attended by pupils from Year 7 to Year 10.

This year, pupils have learned a number of skills including: composition, framing, the rule of thirds, forced perspective, taking portraits, how to effectively shoot in black and white and how use ‘burst mode’ to capture the perfect images.

As well as learning a number of new photography techniques, pupils were asked to incorporate these newly acquired skills using different thematic approaches every week. Themes explored this year have been: staircases, living things, reflections, black and white - to name a few! During Science Week and World Book Week, pupils had to also incorporate these themes into their photographs. Every week, pupils were encouraged to be as imaginative as possible and capture their interpretations of the themes.

Again, pupils have captured some excellent and well-shot images and should be congratulated for their continued commitment to the club. Pupils who have attended every week have massively improved their photography skills since the beginning of the academic year.

Mrs. Jones

Horse Riding

This exciting new enrichment was launched last year and it is still proving to be a popular choice for pupils who either enjoy the challenge of learning a new skill, or want to become more proficient on horseback.

Horse riding lessons take place at Al Samariyah Riding School weekly and the activity is open to pupils of any ability – from beginner, to novice or advanced riders.

The staff at the riding school divide the pupils into two groups so that the beginners can learn the basics of horsemanship, while the more accomplished riders hone their skills at cantering or even jumping.

This year saw a number of pupils who joined the enrichment last year, continue to improve in their mastery of the sport. The most gratifying and rewarding part of the enrichment though is when beginners, who have never even been on a horse before, are able to ride in the arena without a lead rein. The staff have watched pupils transition from being absolutely terrified on horseback to clearly enjoying the experience and growing enormously in confidence. One pupil who was a beginner when he started, can now ride with competence and was moved to the advanced class after only ten lessons.

Pupils are also taught how to tack up the horses and are responsible for returning their mounts to their stables after the rides. They develop a bond with the horses as they get to ride the same horse every week and know them by name and by nature.

Al Samariyah Riding School is a tranquil haven away from the hustle and bustle of Doha and a fantastic place to recharge the batteries after the hectic school day. They have a well-stocked café which Sherborne Qatar pupils patronised regularly and enthusiastically every week! This is a rewarding and exhilarating enrichment activity where the benefits are immeasurable.

Miss Castaldo

Boys' Gym

Year 10 - 13 pupils have enjoyed being part of the senior gym enrichment club this year. Throughout the year, the boys have aimed to improve their physical fitness and strength, being able to design their own partner workouts and on occasions, were tested with Mr. White’s self-designed HIIT sessions. With an ever-improving fitness space provided for our pupils, the hope is that gym style fitness will continue to grow and explode once we move to the new site at the Mall of Qatar. Well done to all pupils involved for your commitment to improving or physical and mental health.

Mr. White

Chess

Chess at Sherborne Qatar is going from strength to strength. Thanks to the hard work and enthusiasm of its members the club has grown in size and held a number of tournaments in different formats. Highlights include: the away match at Doha College; the termly online tournaments (which have attracted over 60 players from pupils, staff and parents); and the Inter-House Championship in which Hamad were victorious. Special congratulations go to Shek Chong in Year 8 for once again finishing as Online Champion and to Club Captain Niranjan Muthuswamy from Year 10 for organising the tournaments.

Mr. Mortimer

Chess Club

Boys' Gym Club

We had a great year in Coding Club, where technology enthusiasts at Sherborne Qatar got the opportunity to create their own app on Android phones. There was a complete variety of both software and hardware-based creation. Lego Mindstorm was very popular and successful as well. A small group entered a competition held at ASD, where pupils got the opportunity to build SumoBots and were able to complete against other robots. Some who were really keen on hardware, got the opportunity to build and program simple digital circuits using the Arduino board.

Mr. & Mrs. Ranglall & Mr. Ahmed

Coding Warhammer

Pupils taking part in Thursday’s Warhammer develop their creativity when painting unique colour schemes onto their figures. They also enjoy devising devious tactics for their battles when playing this tabletop war game!

Mr. Leeder

Coding Club

QAWS

As part of the new entichement programme for this term, 20 pupils visited The Qatar Animal Welfare Society every week. They were able to walk the dogs, cuddle the cats and the rabbit and play with the puppies. They also helped raise awareness and collected donations for a very worthy cause. Most of all, they enjoyed giving a bit of love and affection to some poor animals who endured terrible hardship.

Ms. McKend

Jewellery

Pupils have enjoyed being able to get creative in Jewellery Club. They have made several pieces of jewellery including bracelets and necklaces and were able to take them home. As a group they have improved their crafting skills and in the future are looking forward to making new pieces.

Miss McCormack

Band

Pupils from all year groups have enjoyed rehearsing and performing music together. They have worked on playing their favourite covers and some exam pieces. For many children Band club is an exciting yet formal musical training that brings people together and where long-lasting friendships are built and cherished.

Crossfit

As the year went by, girls in the Crossfit Club got stronger! Challenging workout sessions made us scream, but we never gave up! The girls learned so many new techniques to improve their strength and physique and also created a sense of community to push each other to the limits. Strong body equals strong mind! Well done girls.

Latin & Ballroom Dancing Flamenco Dancing

FPlamenco Dancing has been great fun this year. Pupils have enjoyed learning new "pasos" and the ever popular "zapateados". The enrichment club has been running for two years now and pupils have reinforced the idea that Flamenco Dancing is not only rhythm and coordination but also mental focus and confidence building. ¡Olé!

Ms. Arándiga

upils have embraced the opportunity to learn a variety of Ballroom and Latin American dances. They have mastered the basic Cha Cha Cha, Rumba and Waltz. In pairs, they were able to perform to music, demonstrating good rhythm, co-ordination and spatial awareness. As a group, they reviewed each other, building confidence and beautiful bonds.

Mrs. Oshodi

Miss Raychell

PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB

BALL ROOM DANCING CLUB

DRAMA CLUB

This school year has been very eventful and successful for the Model United Nations (MUN) club and we participated in many conferences.

Ms. Gregory & Mrs. Hamlin – MUN Directors

IN MUN NOT ONLY DO WE DEBATE SOLUTIONS TO EXISTING PROBLEMS AFFECTING OUR WORLD BUT NOW WE ARE ALSO TAKING ACTION

MUN

MODEL UNITED NATIONS

Currently, our world is devastated with seemingly never-ending wars in places like Afghanistan and Yemen, atrocious human rights violations, widespread corruption in many developing nations and of course, the unresolved climate crisis. These pressing global issues - along with many others - are the root of discussion in Model United Nations. As the name suggests, Model United Nations or MUN (for short) is a simulation of the real-world United Nations. MUN participants take the role of delegates. They are required to represent a specific country in a forum where they will collaborate with other delegates to solve a particular international issue - these solutions will be merged into a document called a resolution. Forums range from General Assembly Two, handling financial and economic matters to the Human Rights Council specifically tackling human rights abuses, to the Security Council dealing with international security concerns. Over the course of a conference, MUN members learn valuable skills including research, diplomacy and public speaking.

Conferences attended by MUN delegates include Qatar Leader Conference 2019, DCMUN 2019, THIMUN 2020 and THIMUN SINGAPORE 2019.”

Gul E Butool Abedi - President of Sherborne Qatar MUN Executive Committee

QATAR LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

OCTOBER 2019

We want to congratulate our 17 delegates who gave up their weekend to attend the 8th Annual Leadership conference at the QLC.

The delegates were: Butool Abedi, Turkia Al Thani, Haya Abdelrahman, Thomas Quinn, Sneha Ranglall, Divya Velupandian, Syed Abedi, Lolwa Al Kaabi, Saha Ali, Aymen Dar, Joana El Moghanni, Michael Kalu, And Balkan Kara, Raima Naweed, Mohammed Naweed, Haneen Satti, and Aaron Swindell.

This leadership conference is a fantastic opportunity for students to hear about a huge range of amazing projects both within the region and beyond and from a vast array of speakers delivering talks and workshops all centered around the concept of leadership.

The message from the THIMUN Qatar Executive Team was clearly stated as they introduced the agenda for the second day of the conference when they addressed a packed auditorium of students from all round the world with the words ‘the journey begins with who you are and your desire to be the best version of yourself’. The key

note speaker Jamala Osman (a 25-year-old social entrepreneur, former Barclays bank manager at the age of 21, winner of Great Britain and Ireland Young Citizen Award for 2018 and founder of the Million Minds Campaign) then demonstrated her love of words by introducing us to her life story through rap. She described a time of great challenge and isolation in her teenage years having to cope with her mum’s death and leaving home. Jamala then went to explain how she overcame those challenges and went on to become one of the youngest bank managers in the UK. She spoke of the need of a growth mindset and the need and push yourself to reach your goals.

Our delegates have attended a wide range of workshops from ‘Women and War’ to ‘Empowering Technology Users to Become New Age Innovators’ and ‘Nine Types of Intelligence’. While they return home completely exhausted at the end of a long 3 days it has given them a great deal to think about and a huge amount to aspire to, to become ‘the best version of themselves’.

Ms. Gregory – MUN Director

JANUARY 2020

CONFERENCE 2020

16 MUN delegates attended the 10th Annual THIMUN MUN Conference on Health and Wellbeing in Qatar. Congratulations to all of our delegates who diligently prepared, debated and passed resolutions on a wealth of issues from modern day slavery to issues in Venezuela and the South China seas.

The delegates were Anas Abdelmoula, Amr Abu Shehab, Moza Al Hitmi, Lolwa Al Kaabi, AlJori Al Kuwari, Turkia Al Thani, Sahar Ali, Joana El Moghanni, Oliver Ewing Underwood, Jana

Hamadeh, Henry Kakkad, Michael Kalu, Samar Magbool, Raima Naweed, Muneeb Rahman and Haneen Satti.

While we are as ever very proud of the commitment and dedication of all of our delegates, we are especially proud of Gul E Butool Abedi who became the first appointment of a Sherborne Qatar pupil to the position of deputy chair and who chaired in the Economic and Social Security Council (ECOSOC) was exemplary.

DCMUN XII: LEARNING FROM OUR MISTAKES

3 of our delegates received an 'honorable mention' by their committee chairs for their contribution in their Committees at the Doha College MUN.

Congratulations to Sahar Ali for her work in the Human Rights Commission, Haneen Satti for her resolutions and amendments in the Economic and Social Council and Henry Kakkad for working so hard to get his resolution passed in the International Labour Organisation.

Congratulations to the delegates who attended this conference: Leen Satti, Gul E Butool Abedi, Henry Kakkad, Marie Cabibihan, Haneen Satti, Muneeb Rahman, Sahar Ali, Michael Kalu.

Henry Kakkad represented Netherlands and vigorously insisted upon minimum wage for all, as a delegate of International Labour Organisation at DCMUN 2019.

THIMUN SINGAPORE XV

ANNUAL SESSION

“My name is Turkia Al Thani and recently I visited Singapore with the school for THIMUN. I was a part of the General Assembly 6 which is the legal committee. We wrote resolutions and debated on many different issues including the issue of: legal measures to protect the use of personal data by social media companies and the issue of: establishing legal measures to combat wild-life crime and animal trafficking. Overall, the trip was a wonderful experience and I enjoyed it very much.”

THIMUN SINGAPORE XV ANNUAL SESSION CONTINUES AT THE HWA CHONG INSTITUTE.

Our delegate, Huda Baig is very eager to start her debate within her committee: General Assembly 1 (Disarmament International Security).

IMPACT PROJECTS BIN AND DONE IT

Last year the MUN Club decided that they wanted to do more than just debate and find resolutions to the pressing issues that face our world today –they decided they wanted to act. Therefore, they decided to undertake an IMPACT project. After discussing the UN sustainable development goals, they decided that they wanted to focus on environmental issues and identified recycling as a way of taking action in our school community.

As a result, they wrote a project proposal, presented it to Mr. Spicer, collaborated with Eco Club and together raised QAR 4,475. They then worked with the School Council to help fund the project and as a result we now have paper recycling bins in every classroom.

A fantastic result but it is only the start as we now need to ensure that every pupil makes a commitment to use them and makes a conscientious effort to not waste paper.

“I’m Sahar Ali and I’m in Year 11. I am the Deputy President of the MUN Club. The MUN club continues to be successful club where our executive committee has delivered workshops to prepare our delegates for local and international conferences. I have been in various leadership roles over the last four years helping the club to aspire. This has led to many of our delegates being able to obtain large placements in prestigious conferences to help guide younger generations. Our delegates continue to take the time and effort to research, write resolutions and debate over a wide range of current issues.”

Sahar Ali, Deputy President of Sherborne Qatar MUN Executive Committee.

Ms. Gregory and Mrs. Hamlin invite Sherborne pupils to join the MUN Club next academic year to take an active interest and hone their leadership skills through discussions, preparations of resolutions and debating of the global issues that we face today. No doubt, COVID-19 will form a significant part of the conference agendas that will come up next year.

Debating Society

QATAR DEBATE NATIONAL TOURNAMENT FOR GIRLS

The Sherborne Qatar Debating Society devotedly meets every week to discuss current affairs on global issues. Pupils are stimulated to speak their mind in a structured and sophisticated manner on motions ranging from economics and politics to social issues.

‘I believe that developing critical thinking at a young age is a key to academic success.’

Ms.

Khayari, Debating Coordinator

Over the last eight years, Sherborne Qatar has been actively involved in the Qatar Schools Debate League, organised by Qatar Debate (member of Qatar Foundation), and is very proud to have been crowned Qatar National Champions three years in a row in the past. This year, we felt very privileged and honoured again to host the Qatar Schools Debate League for Girls at Sherborne Qatar.

At this national tournament, over 350 pupils, debaters and teachers from independent and international schools gathered to debate. I want to specially mention our enthusiastic pupils who volunteered to assist with this event and on behalf of Sherborne Qatar, we would like to thank them for their on-going support of our school.

SHERBORNE QATAR BOYS DEBATING TEAM

We would like to congratulate our senior debating boys’ team who competed at the Qatar Schools Debate League this year and we would like to express our sincere appreciation to our wonderful sixth formers team composed of Christopher Williams, Marcus Munjoma, Abbas Kalan, Samer Buqla, Nadir Salimzade, Adithya Jaganathan and Alharith Al Rushaidi.

Our two teams successfully qualified for the QSDL Nationals which unfortunately, because of the current situation, was cancelled. However, we are very proud to announce that Sherborne

Qatar boys’ team won the 3rd position in the league champions for debate season 2019-20, only a point away from the 1st position. Huge congratulations for their active participation in the Qatar Debate programs this year. The school with the highest number of wins at the two tournaments was crowned the League Champion. I would also like to single out the excellent performance of Christopher Williams, Year 13, who reached the 8th best speaker position in the national league.

Christopher will join university to study Politics and Modern History at Cardiff University in the UK. We wish all our Sixth Form pupils the best of luck.

2020 WORLD SCHOLAR’S CUP QUALIFICATION

We are thrilled to announce that a group of pupils from Sherborne Qatar qualified to the Global round of the World Scholar's Cup competition taking place in South Africa after a successful and busy debating weekend at the International School of London and the Qatar National Convention Centre in March. Ms. Khayari would like to congratulate the following Year 9/10 pupils for their hard work and commitment:

Ella Johnsen, Thwayba Hussain, Emma Soukri, Natali Haj Bakour, Hawraa Aljabir, Haneefah Agbabiaka, UneizaHaque, Ethan Mussell, Natalia Davies, Anisha Jain, Anoushka Malviya and Habiba Shehata.

Qualifying teams would have been heading to South Africa in September, however for health and safety reasons and given the current situation, the worldwide competition is postponed until further notice. Sherborne Qatar debaters successfully qualified to the Tournament of Champions at the prestigious Yale University, USA in the past. We wish them the best of luck

QATAR NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS

On the last day of the first term the school was again transformed by the Arabic department with its usual razzmatazz of traditional Qatari clothing, artifacts, calligraphy and an indoor majlis tent. Pupils also had the opportunity to dress up in traditional clothes and have pictures taken. There was a henna artist and traditional tradesmen came to show the pupils how they made fishing nets and how they fished for jewels in the past.

The Arabic department had invited the Qatari ambassador to Russia, His Excellency Fahad Al Attiyah as the guest of honour to address the pupils. During the assembly he spoke to the pupils about his job role whilst also sharing some anecdotes.

There was plenty of food from the morning from traditional bread with a choice of fillings to karak tea and samosas. The theme of eating continued throughout the day with lots of local Qatari families kindly providing refreshments. There was lots of colour and enjoyment and a wonderful way to bring the term to an end. A big thank you to the Arabic department for such a wonderful day.

We pray that God keeps Qatar and all if its residents safe!

The new moon glimmers to life, A sign that the blessed month has arrived, Yet the pale glow casts onto empty streets. In the depths of the night.

Tendrils of light rush to the mosques, The doors firmly shut,no worshipper in sight, It gleams upon quiet homes, Where no joys of Iftar with friends are heard. In the depths of the night.

The shimmer of the moon delves deeper still,

Reaching the peace of families, Together and close ,

The Qur’an joins them tighter, As they all pray together

In the depths of the night

A soft shine engulfs the town tonight, As the worshipper bows down to his Lord Alone;his heart is cleansed

The calm and serenity heals the wounds, Of hate and malice and anger and loss.

The same moon hangs in the sky, The same stars glitter, in the depths of the night

Of a special Ramadan

In the Depths of the Night

By Aymen

P T A

The Autumn Term 2019 was an extremely busy time for the PTA Committee. We met the term head on with our first event in September to support the school’s 10th Anniversary celebration and the official opening of the new multi-purpose Sports Hall (MPSH) at the Prep School. It was wonderful to see such fantastic support from parents, staff, pupils and dignitaries of Sherborne Qatar School enjoying looking back over the 10 years of the accomplishments and achievements of the school. The PTA committee provided refreshments and supplied delicious home-baked cakes, made by our Committee member, Gill Johnsen.

During September, with the assistance from our wonderful team of PTA parent helpers, we hosted one of our coffee mornings and second-hand uniform sales at the Prep School. In October, we supported the Meet the Tutor afternoon and Year 11 Parents’ Evening at the Senior School and again, we provided refreshments and cakes. Additionally, the Committee were asked to provide refreshments, sandwiches and more cake, for the first ever Colours Awards evening at the Senior School. Many parents, pupils and staff attended this event and I can safely say, Gill Johnsen’s sandwiches and cakes are by now renowned for their deliciousness and are widely enjoyed by everyone, including myself!

The hosting of PTA events is divided between the Schools and they are for EVERYONE from both schools to attend and enjoy. The PTA Committee’s Family Fun Day took place in November at the Prep School. Again, with help from our team of PTA parent helpers, many tickets were sold prior to the event and on the day. It was a hot day for November but lots of sports activities, arranged by the PE department took place inside the MPSH and outside for parents and children to enjoy. The Committee supplied burgers, hotdogs, refreshments, snacks, popcorn and of course cake and we were entertained by the Senior School band.

Towards the end of the Autumn Term we hosted our annual Bake Sale at the Prep School and this is always one of our busiest events. Our thanks to Mr. Bray and teachers and parents in Lower KS2 who provided some wonderful homemade cakes and biscuits. A huge, ‘Thank you’ from the Committee goes to you all: our parents, pupils, the Headmasters, all members of staff and our PTA parent helpers. Without your continued support and assistance, we would not be able to provide these events.

Sadly, our planned events for the remainder of the school year, including the PTA Spring Fair and the PTA Quiz Evening could not take place because of COVID-19 and the school closure. However, once we return to school, we will be arranging more events.

Once again, through your help and support of our events we have been able to continue with our contributions to both schools:

Donations to the PE departments at Prep and Senior;

Annual donation to our facilities and cleaning staff at the Prep and Senior Schools for their outstanding help and assistance at our events;

Rolling donations to the Sherborne Qatar nominated charity - United World Schools (UWS).

The PTA are here to help and support both Schools. We have supplied our BBQs and popcorn machines for the Charity House days at the Senior School. In addition, we are always happy to help provide a supply and purchase of second hand uniform to parents and pupils at the Prep and Senior Schools, as and when required, along with the daily loaning system of school ties and blazers.

Following the very sad and untimely death of the lovely Mrs. Afi Ahmed, the PTA Committee was able to provide Afi’s Bench, painted in green to honour her House – Amna. The bench is situated in Afi’s Garden, which is at the Prep School behind reception and provides a tranquil place for people to stop and reflect.

Mrs. Wollaston - Chair PTA

Trips Abroad

Georgia 2020

Miss Price, Mr. White and Mr. Broome flew 25 pupils to Gudauri, Georgia over the February half term break to develop their skiing and snowboarding skills. There was a variety of experience among the group with some being complete beginners, and some having been on the snow every year since they were four years old. To begin with, groups made slow and steady progress as they got used to using the ski lifts and their newly acquainted skis or boards. By the end of the six days, staff and pupils were flying down the mountain with ease; some faster than others. Some unlikely friendships blossomed, and some longer-term friendships were further cemented as the week went by.

Skiing lessons, meal times and evenings were spent together and everybody certainly slept well each night.

A particular highlight was the daily hot chocolate we all drank after coming in from the blizzard like conditions and temperatures as low as -32°C. It was a fantastic week spent developing our physical capabilities, our teamwork skills, and for some, their independence and personal resilience. It really was a fantastic week enjoyed by all. We look forward to the next ski trip.

Miss. Price

Spain 2020

Another year and another trip organised by the Arabic and Islamic Studies department. 19 pupils from Years 7 to 11 travelled with Mr. Eldemiry, Mr. Bassam and Mr. Rahman to Spain where they visited three cities and many historical sites.

The group landed in Madrid where they spent the first two days of the trip. Pupils had a walking tour of the city centre of Madrid and also visited the famous Santiago Bernabeu stadium, home of course of footballing legends Real Madrid. The group then moved on to Granada to visit the Alhambra Palace, the Generalife gardens and the Sierra Nevada mountains before moving on to the Ciudad de las Artes y Cencias in Valencia.

After a short stay in Valencia, it was time to move on to the historical city of Barcelona, where the group had a full itinerary of events. The highlight for was the visit to what Mr. Rahman would describe as the home of football, the Nou Camp, the stadium of FC Barcelona.

It was yet another successful trip with lots of historical links to Islamic heritage. The pupils also learnt about the Spanish culture and history.

Sherborne Boys & Girls visiting Sherborne (Dorset)

As part of the Sherborne Exchange, a group of Year 9-10 pupilsAdam Suteu, Kerim Smajilagic and Lucy Younger - travelled to Sherborne Schools in Dorset during half term accompanied by their teacher, Ms. Khayari. On arrival, they were warmly welcomed by Dr. Luckett, Headmaster of Sherborne School and Dr. Sullivan, Headmistress of the Sherborne Girls.

The group appreciated the itinerary of activities and educational experience in Sherborne which involved lessons and exciting enrichment activities, sightseeing around Dorset such as Sherborne Abbey and a day trip to Bath (visit of the Fashion Museum and the Bath Art gallery). Pupils had the opportunity to visit the University of Oxford (including a tour of their teacher’s former university college).

“On the arrival at the boarding house, I was made to feel very welcome by all the girls and staff and have made friends for life. Boarding house life was an amazing experience as I loved the fact, we all studied, ate, and lived together in one house this allowed me to build more friendships with all the girls. Having to host before visiting the UK gave me a chance to get to know the girls who I would see on my visit to Sherborne UK.”

Lucy

Younger - Year 10

“My boarding experience at Sherborne Boys was spectacular and I was immediately struck by how friendly everyone was. The boys and teachers were all welcoming and made me feel like at home.”

“My Sherborne Exchange Trip experience was exceptional. It was a once in a lifetime experience which we were fortunate enough to enjoy! The boys in our dorms were amazing. They assisted Kerim and I in everything we did and were great to include us in the activities. If I was given the opportunity to go back to Dorset for another trip or to even study there I would most definitely accept the offer!”

Adam Suteu - Year 9

Kerim Smajilagic - Year 9

Sherborne Girls (Dorset, UK) Visiting Doha

Sherborne Qatar welcomed a group of four pupils from Sherborne Girls (Dorset, UK) and their teacher, Mrs. Mackintosh, as part of our exchange programme the week before February half term this year. On arrival, they were welcomed by Mr. Spicer, our Headmaster. During their visit and stay in Doha the girls thoroughly enjoyed the itinerary of cultural activities and educational experience in Sherborne Qatar involving lessons and enrichment activities, sightseeing around Doha including local landmarks such as Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village and an overnight stay in the desert. The Sherborne girls enjoyed the warm and generous hospitality of Sheikha Alanoud Khalifa Al Thani and experienced a Qatari family weekend at a local farm. We would like to thank all parents involved - hosts and helpers – who helped made the week so memorable.

For further details about our exchange trip to Dorset and if your child would be interested in being part of next year’s exchange please email Ms. Khayari on rkhayari@sherborneqatar.org.

10th Year Anniversary

Sherborne Qatar was officially opened by Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Thani (founding Chairman of Governors) at 9.00 p.m. on 9th September 2009, during a celebratory event in the Atrium at Bani Hajer at 9.00 a.m. on 19th September 2019 Sheikh Abdulla was in attendance once again as we celebrated the school’s 10th Birthday and the official opening and naming of the Sheikh Abdulaziz Bin Ahmed Multi-Purpose Hall at Al Rayyan. Just as he had done ten years before, Sheikh Abdulla gave an address to a packed MPH. This celebratory event brought together a cross section of staff, pupils and parents from both the Prep and Senior Schools and included a commemorative presentation to all founding staff and pupils who are still at the school after 10 years.

Also in attendance were other members of Sheikh Abdulla’s family, including Sheikha Amal Al Thani, Managing Director of Sherborne Qatar, Sheikha Noura Al Thani, Chairman of Sherborne Qatar Governors, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Ahmed Al Thani and Sheikh Hamad bin Ahmed Al Thani, Sharaka Holdings Board members, Miss Donja El Gendy from the British Embassy, who brought a personal message from the British Ambassador, Mr. Omar Abdul Aziz Al Naama, the Assistant Undersecretary for Private Education, Mr. Khaled Al-Mulla, Acting Director of the Licensing Department and Heads from other British Schools in Qatar. After the singing of the Qatari and British National Anthems all were welcomed by Mr. Nick Prowse, Principal and CEO of Sherborne Qatar and founding Headmaster of the school in 2009.

Later

in the proceedings Mr Prowse took the opportunity to highlight key events in the school’s history, give personal and school thanks to various people who have been central to the school’s development and look forward to the Sherborne Qatar’s future plans, including the opening of the Girls’ School at Al Ebb and the Senior School’s move to the Grand Zone adjacent to the Mall of Qatar.

Mr. Prowse also relayed a message of congratulation from Dr. Dominic Luckett, Headmaster and CEO of Sherborne School, UK. Dr. Luckett had himself just been named the UK’s Headmaster of the Year.

A selection of Senior School pupils who have been in the school for the full ten years, took the opportunity to talk about some of their memories and these reminiscences were punctuated by performances from musicians from both the Prep and Senior Schools. The event concluded with Prep School pupils surrounding the audience and singing Dana Al Fardan’s inspirational song, Wings of a Falcon.

The hall was decorated with a timeline of photographs from across the years and everyone present enjoyed viewing them whilst reminiscing. There was also an opportunity to view other exhibits in the Small Hall whilst enjoying refreshments produced by our ever supportive PTA.

Overall, this was a joyous event which reminded us not only how far we have travelled in the last ten years but also how exciting the future looks for Sherborne Qatar.

Mr. Richard Williams

WORK EXPERIENCE

One of the more unique features about Year 10 at Sherborne Qatar is work experience. It is a week like no other in our school calendar where all of the pupils in the year group venture out to see what life is like outside of the classroom and in the world of work.

The process of finding placements is a challenging one and we are forever grateful to those businesses and institutions in and around Qatar that help make this programme the success that it has become. This year was the fourth year of work experience and it was the first time that over 100 pupils were out for the week. The onus was very much on the pupils to source and organise their own placement wherever possible. Of course we were there to support them with PSHE sessions on writing CVs, letters of application and interview techniques but their job was to investigate the various types of work places that exist in Qatar and try to match their interests with those. It is not an easy task for a 14 or 15 year old to apply for a week’s work in a strange environment but to their credit, none of our pupils were daunted by the task and with a little help on occasions here and there, they were able to secure their placements and venture into the workplace.

After months of planning and preparation, the week itself tends to go very smoothly and the credit for this must go to our amazing pupils. They never fail to impress with their enthusiasm and a willingness to learn that often makes them stand out from the crowd. This year they were working in a plethora of different environments in such a range of careers. We had architects, doctors, dentists, film makers, service industry professionals, the sports industry, quantity surveyors, schools, banks, not to mention wonderful Qatari icons such as the MIA and Hamad International Airport. It was an amazing week, giving the Sherborne Qatar pupils an invaluable experience to take with them not only for those days they were there, but to help guide them as they start to think about their career paths and the qualifications they might need to achieve in order to get the job of their dreams.

Special thanks go to those staff at the venues below who made it all possible:

Hamad International Airport, Hamad Hospital, Sidra, Al Kass, The Crowne Plaza, The Museum of Islamic Arts, Revolution Films, Mohammed Majed Al Hajrii, Evolution Sports, Qatar Foundation, Al Emadi Hospital, December Café, CBQ, The Film House, DESS, Sherborne Prep School, Al Mana Luxury, Harvey Nicholls, QBC, Texas A & M University, Umm Salal Health Centre, Itialus Accounting, Al Wajba Health Centre, Qatar University, Total Oil & Gas, Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, KBR, British International Dental Centre, D G Jones & Partners, Al Aseel Veterinary Clinic, Es’hailSat, QFBA, Injaz Qatar, Al Watanyia International School, ITAL Consult, Al Thulathi trading and contracting group W.L.L, Aecom, Al Salem Group, HBK Contracting.

If you would be interested in hosting any of our pupils during next year’s work experience (January 2021), please do get in touch. We would very much like to hear from you.

We could not achieve all we have done without every single one of you – Thank you!

Mr.

Oldridge - Head of Year 10

WORK EXPERIENCE

BRITISH INTERNATIONAL DENTAL CENTRE

How I applied:

I first talked to the receptionist and asked them who I should contact and how I should apply. I then emailed the manager, Dr Leena Mathews, and explained the reason I wanted to go and work in the Dental centre and between what days I would like to come. She then emailed me back she told me that I would be observing a Dentist each day of the week.

What I did:

Throughout the week I observed a number of different dentists that specialised in different things varying from an Orthodontist to a General Scope Dentist. Although I was not allowed to use the equipment, I was allowed to closely observe the dentist whilst they would explain to me what treatment they would be doing.

What did I enjoy?

I enjoyed learning about the different types of specialist dentists and I enjoyed learning about the different procedures that were done. I especially enjoyed observing an Orthodontist where I witnessed people getting braces for the first time to people getting their braces off. Overall, I personally enjoyed observing an Orthodontist and if I become a dentist, that is what I would like to specialise in.

What did I least enjoy?

I least enjoyed observing a General Scope Dentist as I found the procedures and treatments very repetitive and I think that in my opinion, I would not become one if I become a dentist.

Overall:

Generally, I think that going on work experience to British International Dental Centre was good training and it has helped me a lot to try and perhaps help me decide my career choices.

PE & SPORTS

Volleyball

Sherborne Qatar volleyball has long been a source of great success and this year was no different. For two of the U19 boys, Jack and Lucas Oldridge, this tournament signalled the end of an era. They have played in every volleyball tournament since arriving at the school in Year, tasting success on more than one occasion along the way. Unfortunately, this year was not meant to be for this team and despite giving it their all, they were unable to make it out of a tough group. A week later, it was he turn of the U16 team. After losing their first group game to Doha College, they quickly got to grips with the task in hand and qualified for the semi finals where they came up against Qatar International School. This was an extremely high quality match with the lead changing hands on a number of occasions. Unfortunately for Sherborne, this match ended in a gallant 24-26 defeat and sent us into the 3rd/4th placed play off against Al Khor International School. This time, we were not to be denied. Inspired by the play of the more experienced members of the squad, Daniel Ventorim and Alex Head, the result was never in doubt and the Sherborne boys finished the tournament in bronze medal position. Volleyball tournaments come thick and fast in Doha and before the new academic year was barely a month old, the under 14 squad journeyed up to Al Khor for their turn.

The prolonged travel time meant that the boys were playing catch up and within minutes of getting off the bus, they were playing their first match in the group stages against Park House. The boys predicatably got off to a slow start as they adjusted to playing in an unfamiliar venue and fell behind very early on. Fortunately, they are a talented group of players, led very well by captain Leo Confalone, and they all know their role in the team (Tamim's excellent setting was particularly noticeable) so they were able to turn the deficit around and win 15-8. From this point forward, the team made comfortable progress into the final where they came up against the hosts, Al Khor International School. It was a noisy occasion with the partizan crowd cheering on the home team as they strived to get the better of the visitors. It was a worthy final, two very good teams, playing excellent volleyball and very rarely was there more than a point's difference between them. There could only be one winner and our stubborn resilence finally paid off as Sherborne prevailed 23-21 to be crowned QUESS champion 2019. Let's hope that the boys can defend their title as an under 16 team next year. The final boys tournament didn't reach the same lofty heights as we took a very young team along and gave them much needed competitive exposure. The boys, made up of a mixture of Year 7 & Year 8 players were superb as they chased and scrambled for every point. Unfortunately, it wasn't meant to be for this team but they experience will do them the world of good and they too can look forward to experiencing volleyball success in the years to come at Sherborne Qatar.

Norain El Gebely captained the U16 team a week later, but sadly this Sherborne Qatar team did not manage to have quite as much success as they won 1 and lost 3 of their group gams. Nava again took the player of the tournament for Sherborne.

The U14 team, captained by Isabela Ventorim, demonstrated excellent resilience in their tournament. They were comfortably beaten 15-3 by Park House in their opening game, however that sparked them into life and they went on to win 3 games in succession. Those victories led them to the final to meet Park House again, and the improvement they had made across a short space of time was so evident as the just lost out 25-22 to take a 2nd place which no one had thought possible after that first game. Haneen Ortashi was voted as player of the tournament for Sherborne following some excellent serving and all-round play.

The final tournament of the year saw the U13 team take part, notable for the large number of U12 players promoted to it. Kyla Corcoran captained the team and they made a very good start with 3 wins in the group stage. They sadly ran out of steam, as they narrowly lost in the semi-final and 3rd place play off to end up in a very respectable 4th position.

Volleyball was a hugely popular enrichment activity this year, and selecting teams for the four QUESS tournaments was a particularly difficult job due to the enthusiasm of so many girls.

As always the volleyball tournaments come thick and fast at the beginning of the year, beginning on 9th September with the U19 team captained by Laila Salem who declared that the team played better than any other Sherborne Qatar team she had been involved in before as they took 4th place, just losing out to GEMS in the 3rd place play off. Nava Surenthiran’s energy and serving skills had been particularly notable across all games.

Rugby

The Rugby World Cup hosted in Japan from September to November 2019 acted as a catalyst for increasing the numbers of pupils playing rugby in Sherborne this academic year.

Over 120 pupils participated in House Tag Rugby challenges in September and October with a focus on mixed teams in Year 7 to 9, and girls’ teams in Year 10+. Meanwhile, a core of up to 25 Year 7-8 and Year 11+ boys ensured that our weekly rugby enrichment club was well attended.

U12/13 Contact:

In October, our Year 7-8s participated in a fun tag rugby tournament involving teams from Doha College and Compass schools, giving many pupils their first taste of competitive rugby.

Subsequently, the Year 7-8s, captained by Max Saunders, took on the challenge of contact rugby and came runnersup to Doha College in the U13 QUESS event, and put in some impressive displays in festivals at the Blue Falcons RFC. They even beat a Doha RFC team, with a little help from some players from the Kuwait Saracens. I have been particularly impressed with the tackling of the U13 team, and considering most players are still eligible for the U13s next year, this team has a lot of potential. Special mention to Harry O'Donnell, Patrick Baron and Jana Kamel who even managed to become ‘Blue Falcons’ at a Doha RFC festival to help ensure they could field 10-a-side teams for the event.

U17/18 Girls Touch and Contact:

The Sherborne values of Respect and Teamwork were a common theme through-out our season. This is best epitomised by our first ever U17/18 girls rugby team who started off playing touch, but after our first tournament quickly progressed into playing contact rugby, entering teams into events at Doha RFC in December 2019 and Blue Falcons in February 2020.

Giving the girls a positive experience was very much at the forefront of the thinking as coaches mixed and matched players and our girls developed friendships with players from both the Camels and Doha RFC. Thanks to Hadeel Dossa, supported by Jana Elbanna, who have been tireless in their leadership and efforts to get other girls to play. It is brilliant to see a number have joined local community clubs, and I do not think it will be long before a few progress to playing at international level.

U17 Boys Contact:

The Senior Boys U17 rugby team, superbly captained by the inspirational Oliver Kinnaird-Barr, have been a pleasure to work with. So much potential, with our talented Year 11s gaining more experience and players like Kareem Al Ansari and Amir Khattab making great improvement, the future really is promising. Playing 7-a-side, the U17s became runnersup in Blue Falcons Rugby Festival in October, beating the hosts and the Muscat Pirates, as well as showing glimpses of what they are capable of as runners-up to Doha College in QUESS. More recently, the focus in the region has shifted to developing the 15-a-side game and collectively the boys have been a massive credit to the school, mixing with players from Doha RFC and the Blue Falcons, to produce some entertaining games. With extra training and greater experience, not to mention some more self-belief, there is no reason why Sherborne cannot further close the gap and start expecting to beat local school and club teams.

U13/U14 Girls Touch Rugby:

Our most successful team of the season has undoubtedly been our U13/14 girls 6-a-side touch rugby team. Across 3 tournaments they won 5, drew 4 and only lost 3 games all season, which is made even more remarkable by the fact none had played before and we did not have the same squad for any tournament. Special mention for Alba Confalone for his captaincy and try scoring, Emmasen Holmes for a brilliant solo try at Doha RFC, and Jana Kamel and Sophia Hixson who have gone on to play for the Senior Girls teams. Did I forget to mention, the squad only won their first ever tournament remaining undefeated at Blue Falcons RFC. An amazing effort by the girls and also the tactics and coaching from Mr White.

A final mention goes to the Year 9 and Year 10 boys who have recently jumped on the band wagon and flooded into training sessions and gained valuable playing time in games for Doha RFC. With such commitment, it will not be long before we have to field an U15s team also.

In total, 67 pupils have represented Sherborne Qatar in the Senior School this year in both girls and boy’s rugby. Special thanks to Mr. White and Mr. Robinson for their support at festivals and events, and to Mr. Oakes from the Prep School for his support with training. With these numbers, as well as the outstanding rugby development being done at Prep, things look promising for the future. Special thanks to the coaches and players of Doha RFC, Camels Rugby, and the Blue Falcons who have been so flexible and supportive across the season. We hope to continue to work with you in 2020-2021.

During the final weekend of January, 30 Sherborne Qatar pupils attended the U13 BISQ Games 2020 at Al Arabi Sports Club. However, the hard work had begun well before this weekend. Trials and training in the weeks and months leading up to the Games had seen dozens of pupils try out to get one of the prestigious spots in the squad. Once training began, the running team, in particular, set the benchmark by training in morning before school and in afternoon sessions.

Those who made the squad spent the Games weekend competing against 14 other British Schools from across Qatar in swimming, basketball, netball, athletics and football. There was plenty of sweat and tears along the way, but as we headed towards the end of the weekend there was a sense that all the hard work the pupils had put in over the course of the two days and in their training beforehand may about to be rewarded with one of prizes.

As long as I have been teaching, I do not think I have felt more proud of a group of pupils as I did during this weekend. Each and every one of them performed their role to the very best of their ability. Others went above and beyond by stepping in to replace injured teammates in events they had not even prepared for. So many could be singled out here for their efforts, but no one quite encapsulated the team spirit of the Sherborne Qatar squad like Kyla Corcoran. Kyla was a spectator for the swimming event, yet when one of the team could not participate, she stepped in at the last moment, borrowed a costume and made sure Sherborne got some points for every race. She repeated the same the next day in the athletics competition.

Mr. Broome - Head of PE & Games

Cross Country

The Cross Country event was an amazing team effort and included pupils from Year 7 through to Year 11. Competitors attended morning training sessions prior to the event, reflecting their dedication to the team and determination to ensure they that were well prepared. On the day, all competitors completed their events and displayed exemplary sportsmanship whilst running the event, and at all times before and after that. Some particularly noticeable performances included Oliver De Jongh winning the U14 boys event, and the U16 boys – Saul Saunders, Aaron Swindell, Mohammed Elsayed and Talha Ghauri who managed to come 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th place respectively in their 4km race. Emmasen Holmes took 2nd place in the U12 girls race. An excellent performance by all.

The Cross Country event was an amazing team effort and included pupils from Year 7 through to Year 11. Competitors attended morning training sessions prior to the event, reflecting their dedication to the team and determination to ensure they that were well prepared. On the day, all competitors completed their events and displayed exemplary sportsmanship whilst running the event, and at all times before and after that. Some particularly noticeable performances included Oliver De Jongh winning the U14 boys event, and the U16 boys – Saul Saunders, Aaron Swindell, Mohammed Elsayed and Talha Ghauri who managed to come 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th place respectively in their 4km race. Emmasen Holmes took 2nd place in the U12 girls race. An excellent performance by all.

Badmintion

This year has been another busy one, with both the senior and junior clubs running at full capacity in both terms. There have been some excellent improvements throughout the year by all participants and it is a shame that we were not able to show this against other schools. Unfortunately, the QUESS competition was scheduled for the day after the enforced closure of schools. However, we should stay upbeat and be positive, as the skills learnt throughout the year will not be lost and can be built upon again once we return. Next year we will come back even more determined and dedicated to improving ourselves.

Rounders

Sadly, due to poor weather conditions the U12 and U13 rounders tournaments were cancelled and were unable to be rescheduled before schools closed their doors due to COVID-19. Therefore both of our teams were unable to compete this year. However, both teams worked excetionally hard in training and will be even more eager to play next season.

Table Tennis

The junior table tennis club has been a huge success with pupils and an evidently popular club, with it being oversubscribed in both terms. Pupils did not just roll out the tables and play, rather they were educated about the rules and how to play different types of strokes. Pupils also learnt how to play the doubles version of the game and were due to take part in the Qatar Schools Table Tennis competition on the first day of school closures in Qatar due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a shame that the pupils did not get the chance to compete after having trained so well... it is the taking part that counts and not the winning!

Netball

Senior netball welcomed a combination of new Year 12 girls this year with the addition of their returning Year 13 teammates. This season the U19 team were met with six very strong and experienced A division teams. However, the girls were enthusiastic and resilient throughout. They first faced three very challenging games against strong opposition. However, the teams’ fourth game against DBS was their best performance to date. Even though a loss, the defense were great in continuously turning over possession and it was their highest scoring game. The girls chose their goal shooter Lucia Szucs as deserving player of the match. This was the boost of confidence the girls needed going forward in the league. The team proved this in the U19 netball tournament where they had their first win of the season against NIA. The girls then finished the season on a high with a close game against and Dukhan and a draw against MIS. The girls were committed to learning from their previous performances and improving every time which I commend them for and hope they take these experiences into the next season. A special mention to the teams’ exceptional captain Laila Salem who received the most nominations for player of the match this season. We look forward to next year's season and wish our leaving Year 13 girls - Laila, Jamila and Karla - all the best for the future.

The junior netball enrichment had over 50 girls attend each week which meant we could comfortably have two U14 squads this season. Ella McMahon captained the A team whilst Daisy Kinnaird Barr captained the B team. Both teams have had a busy netball season of matches facing five different schools each. The A team finished the season with two wins, two losses and one draw under their belts. Special mention must be awarded to Isabela Ventorim for having the most player of the match nominations this season. The B team finished the season with the same results; two wins, two losses and one draw. Matilda Von Lutzow and Kristine Kalu received the most nominations throughout the season to be awarded joint players of the season. Unfortunately, due to poor weather conditions, the U14 tournament was cancelled on two occasions. However, I know that come September the squads will be raring to go and ready to train for these tournaments next season.

The U13 team started the 2019/20 commenced the season with enthusiasm and energy. Although smaller in numbers the girls were determined and persevered with the help of some Year 7 pupils. The A team was captained by Emily Spicer Gregory and the B team captained by May-Lian Tham. The A team finished the season with two wins and three defeats and finishing 4th place in the U13a tournament. A special mention to Emily Spicer Gregory and Olivia Keefe, they received the most nominations throughout the season achieving joint players of the season. The B team had a fantastic tournament achieving 1st place. Special mention to Ana Ventorim and Evie Tobin who received the same number of nominations in the tournament for player of match. The 2019/20 netball season was successful in many aspects, but has also identified the need to train even harder next season. We look forward to playing again next year and cannot wait to see everyone back on the court.

Junior netball welcomed a lot of new talented, enthusiastic and promising Year 7 pupils all keen to compete in the 19/20 season. We had two squads who were very committed and dedicated to training every week. Ana Ventorim captained the A team whilst Mimi Elsheikh captained the B team. The A team had a fantastic start to the season winning 1st place at the U12a tournament. They continued their season with four wins and two defeats finishing in third place, a narrow point off second place. Special mention to Ana Ventorim who received the most nominations for player of the match this season. The B team were eager and hardworking throughout their tournament improving in every game and achieving a well-earned 3rd place. A special mention to Alexandra Cologne, Emmasen Holmes and Eshel Raheel who received the most nominations at the tournament. Both squads have demonstrated that they have a very promising netball future and we look forward to next years season.

It was a really mixed season for the U19 boys football team, which started and ended on a high but was not quite so successful in between. Lucas Oldridge was elected as captain, and the squad made its first trip of the season to Oryx International School, returning with a very comfortable 5-0 victory thanks to a Jack Oldridge hat-trick which saw him get the player of the match award. The promising start was not followed up however, as Hanley Hilton’s excellent performances could not inspire the team enough to avoid defeats at Al Khor International School (0-3) and ISLQ (2-6).

With hopes of the league title now dashed, a win at EMS lifted spirits again. The game ended 3-1 to Sherborne, however it was the heroics of Nadir Salimzade in goal in the closing stages which turned the game on its head and allowed Sherborne to win when they could well have drawn. The final game of the season was perhaps the most memorable of them all. After the hour-long journey to GEMS Al Wakra seemed to have taken its toll on the players, Sherborne found themselves 3-0 down at half time and 4-1 down with ten minutes remaining. However, led by a wonderful Ahmed Al Thani performance, Sherborne scored 3 in a dramatic finish to take something from the game in a 4-4 draw. It was a draw which felt like a victory, and the season had at least ended with lots of smiles on faces.

Wow! What a rollercoaster of a season for this combination of U19 and U16 boys. We had the highs of dramatic victories, the heartbreak of conceding last minute equalisers (scored by a former pupil, no less), a walkover victory and a knock out blow to a team who were making their debut in the Qatar Foundation League - such is the drama of football. The league started with a hard fought 1 - 0 victory against the tournament hosts Qatar Foundation. The following week, it was Doha College and despite a stunning 20 yard free kick from Lucas, we were unable to hold on to our lead and succumbed to a late equaliser (3 - 3) in the gathering gloom. The final group stage game brought us up against The American School of Doha and resulted in a comfortable 3 - 0 victory. Unfortunately, this was as good as it got for our First XI. In our first knock out game against the hitherto unknown team and eventual finalists, Ibn Taymeya. Despite early pressure, we were unable to get the lead our play deserved and, although the scoreline of 4 - 0 flattered our opponents they were worthy winners on the day.

This was a season of what might have been. A fantastic, close knit group of boys, all working extremely hard and playing for each other. This combination of Year 10 and Year 11 boys were committed to being as good as they could possibly be from the very first game - a 2-2 draw against Al Khor. Following games resulted in victories against GEMS (4-1), Messaieed (4-3), Compass (7-4) and the Gulf English School (7-1) provided a large boost to the goals tally of Mohammed Al Mesallam. This set up a league decider against ISLQ where despite a well deserved goal from the ever industrious Abdullah Khan, the season ended with a 4-2 defeat and a very creditable second place in the league.

The U14 season kicked of with a tournament at ISLQ. Despite a Rohan Martin hat-trick in a 3 - 0 victory over GEMS and a Zineddine Badis double in 2 - 0 win over ASD is was the failure to turn possession into goals against QFS (scoreless draw) and NIS (1.0 defeat) that resulted in early elimination.

With tournament disappointment behind us it was time for some league action. First off, a tricky opener away to a strong Doha Collage team. A difficult fixture at the best of times was made all the more so when playing with a man down for the majority of the game. Despite decent possession and some strong performances, Sherborne struggled to create an opening and eventually succumbed to a 3 - 0 defeat. Despite the deflating result representing the school was a proud moment for some in the squad who were making their first ever appearance; just reward for their commitment and attitude shown at training.

Home comforts provided the first league win of the season when Sherborne welcomed Gulf English School. A bizarre opening goal by Zineddine Badis (highlighted the need to play to the whistle) was followed up by a second half finish by substitute Mohamad Al Shaeen. Strong penalty claims were waved away by the referee as the game finished 2 - 0 to the home side.

Buoyed by victory on their last outing Sherborne then edged a very exciting game against QA on what was supposed to be the start of three games in four days. With nerves of steel Aaron Jervis slotted home two penalties and Ali Hussain delivered a composed finish in a hard fought 3 - 0 victory.

With momentum building the winning streak was brought to an abrupt end as COVID-19 resulted in the postponed of U14 competition and much, much more! Unfortunately, as a result of the pandemic some committed team members never bore the fruits of their labor but with the right attitude this squad has the talent to achieve great things. It has been an enjoyable season, with mixed results, for our U12 football team. In total, the boys played 7 league games, with 2 wins, 2 draws and 3 losses. The team capped off a big win in the last game of the year, with a resounding win, beating Qatar Academy Doha 5 - 0 in an excellent all-round team display. The boys also took part and won the joint 1st position alongside Doha College in a tournament involving 10 different schools. Their level of excitement, determination, team effort and the quality of skills displayed were highly commended by officials and coaches at the tournament. We will seize this opportunity to thank and appreciate the effort of other members of the team, who turned up every Thursday for training but did not get an opportunity to represent the school before the closure. In general, every single member of the team deserves a huge recommendation. We are pleased to specially recognise the outstanding performance of Bill Anderson throughout the season, and for being an exceptional captain all through. We wish to see the team progress and hopefully experience even more success in future years.

The U13 pupils started in September coming off a tough year the previous season and a rethink for some of the squad was necessary as whilst we had a plethora of attacking midfielders and options on the wing, there was nobody who could be called a goalscorer or defensive midfielder in the squad. The likes of Abdulsamad Ahmed, Wasay Afridi and Aiden Sherlock did well in the training in the autumn term to learn a new position and we gradually forged a new team shape. In the 6 a side tournament we recorded a couple of wins but unfortunately exited at the group stage after coming up against some more physical teams. The subsequent league campaign proved extremely frustrating for the boys as we were only able to complete 2 fixtures. Captain Sajad Tajeldin led us with aplomb and we played quite well but lost both narrowly against AKIS and NBS Al Muraikh. Having the season curtailed so early was scant reward for the boys having worked so hard in training, hopefully next year will be a much more fulfilling season. Most Improved Player: Aiden Sherlock.Goal of the Season: Wasay Afridi vs NBS Al Muraikh. Player of the Season: Sajad Tajeldin.

Our U12 and U13 girls footballers have had another memorable year at Sherborne Qatar. For the preseason training, we recruited the inspirational Coach Gloria, who taught the girls how to live, breathe and eat football for 12 weeks. The impact that Coach had on our girls is incredible. She helped them build confidence in their ability. Our season kicked off with a trip for our U13 girls up to Al Khor for the U13 QUESS tournament. Our girls finished in 4th place overall, losing the 3rd place play off in a tense penalty shootout. A special shoutout to one of our U12 goalkeepers, Ameera, who stepped up for the U13 pupils here and was incredible in the shootout. Next up was the U12 team, with a daunting trip to DC for the U12 QUESS tournament. There was high expectations for these girls. Word was spreading across Sherborne about just how good these girls were, and boy did they deliver. They were untouchable that day. They played every other team off the park and it was the first I was embarrassed because one of my teams was so good. They left DC with gold medals and a trophy for the Sherborne Qatar trophy cabinet. Our U13 pupils then made the trip to ISLQ, where a depleted squad managed to come away with a very respectable draw. Soon after, we took both teams for a little trip to EMS. Our U12 pupils continued to take no prisoners and came away victorious. The U13 pupils, with a very inexperienced squad, should have also came away with a victory but unfortunately some poor finishing let us down. We had to settle for a draw. The rampant U12 pupils next trip was off to QAD and they must have skipped breakfast that day as they were ferocious. Once again, the win was bagged and it was the following week’s trip to DC that whetted everyone’s appetite. Unfortunately, it took a global pandemic to stop this team and that trip to DC will have to wait until next year. We did have time to squeeze in one more fixture for the U13 pupils. A few key players were reinstated but, unfortunately, the day was not ours. With no regular goalkeeper available, we struggled to contain AKIS and we made the long journey home defeated.

A special thank you to all of the girls involved this year, our team captains Vera and Rebecca, the PE department for all their support and Mr. Ingram for coming and getting involved too. A farewell to Mr. Burns, who has inspired Girls' Football for many years now, you will be dearly missed by all.

FFarewell from Mr. Burns

or me and all other sport coaches the week after Sherborne Qatar's Enrichment fair is an incredibly exciting time. Seeing our squads breaking the heat-crusted Astro for the first time in a season fills me with exhilaration. This year was particularly thrilling because for the first time in the history of the school Girls' football had two after noon sessions, a true testament of the growing popularity of the sport. The Seniors trained with the grizzled Mr. Burns while the Junior's had the pleasure to be trained by the young enthusiastic coach Mr. Curneen, promoted from chief bottle washer to Head Coach of junior football. Based on his fantastic year, it was a triumph of recruitment.

The U16s started first and had a great season in terms of development of the club. We had several new players and some of our more established players really stepped up to the mark. There is nothing more gratifying for a coach to see what is being practiced in training being implemented on the pitch. Our new passing philosophy was evident, with patience in defence and more emphasis on stretching our pitches as wide as possible. I loved watching us play 'proper football'. The first game against MIS was one of the best 1-1 draws I have watched in years, two committed teams competing and playing dynamic attacking football. The cobwebs were blown off the Big Blue Machine. It led the team nicely progressing into the U16 tournament. Our team transformed itself into a free flowing, free scoring team that benefitted from a miserly defence and a lethal strike force. Sadly, due to the small squad, we ran out of gas at the semifinal stage and fell to Doha College. The league was a close run contest and finished with the top two teams going head to head in a winner takes all final fixture. Needless to say it was against our White Whale, ParkHouse school. They have been the pinnacle of Girls Football for the past four years and this year was no exception. This was the first year where I felt we had a team and a philosophy that would really challenge them. They didn't leave the game unscathed but the victory was just out of our grasp. A warm congratulations to Park House but we are getting stronger every season and like all optimistic Liverpool fans say, "Next year will be our year!!"

The U14's was a trickier proposition. It was fantastic to see so many new faces freshly joining or being promoted to Senior football and thrown into the big leagues. The league games were a mixed bag with a thrashing of Al Khor and a narrow defeat at Oryx leaving the league finely balanced. Sadly though, COVID-19 proved to be an even bigger opposition than Park House's and, with the schools on lockdown, the league could not be finished. I guess we will wait, like the Premier League, to see how the final placings will be decided. Most probably we will dust ourselves off and get ready for next year.

And so, it is down to me to say a final farewell. I have been coach at Sherborne for my five years at the school and, like I have said in many of my babbling post-match reports, it has been a rollercoaster. I have loved the highs and the lows that training and matches have given me. I will miss the bus journeys, the music and the snacks. I will miss watching girls chat to girls they may not normally speak to. I am immensely proud that I am leaving the club in the capable hands of coach Curneen, with a club that has grown from around twenty girls to over seventy over both age groups. There are so many superstars that it would be unfair to single out individuals. We are a club representing an amazing school. I watched so many girls of all ages and abilities work hard for each other, fight for every second ball and keep their heads up when players are closing in on them. I know we are leaving the club in a better place than we found it.

Thank you for all your support and for showing me that Girls' football is alive and well in Sherborne Qatar. Yallah, the Big Blue Machine, Yallah!

Mr. Burns - Director of Learning

THE HOUSES

H O U S E A H M E D

AHMED HOUSE

Ahmed House pupils have really impressed me this year. Getting to know the pupils and supporting them has been a new and exciting challenge which I have truly enjoyed.

Active athletics and relay challenges were events where individuals and teams shone. Pupils managed themselves with communication and effective team work. A highlight was Sports Day achieving 1st place at one point, and finally achieving joint 2nd through the efforts of Ahmed participants and supporters.

In technology our pupils displayed problem-solving skills to come top in early maths and science competitions. We created impressive structures in water challenges and marble runs, but were unable to find the same success through the rest of the year.

Ahmed got off to a good start in term 1 with the employable events when we won the debating competition. We also did well in English slam poetry writing, MFL quizzes and Arabic carom board games.

A highlight was when a group of Qatari girls confidently took responsibility for the artistic montage display challenge and won. The Ahmed Band did well performing a cool rendition of ‘Feel Good Inc’ by Gorillaz for Sherborne’s Got Talent.

Ahmed House achieved some very good results in mindful with the 10th Anniversary and history competitions. I was especially impressed with the upper school pupil leadership of the business challenge world cup stadium design modelled on a dhow boat.

For the Ahmed mystery magic show we successfully sawed a pupil in half! Our Haka had the highest participation and was technically impressive. And Julian Duncan demonstrated impressive zombie killing skills to win the virtual reality challenge.

Our slogan ‘One Vision’ sums up the team effort from Ahmed. I am proud to lead this House, and we are ready to work hard and develop ourselves further next year.

Mr. Hake - Head of Ahmed House

H O U S E H A M A D

HAMAD HOUSE

Hamad House has been on an emotional rollercoaster this year and I have enjoyed every minute of being sat at the front of it!

From the outset, we continued to personify our House motto: “Hamad Works Hardest”. Hamad pupils showcased some fabulous work and effort in many of the different Inter-House challenges we participated in. We had some considerable victories and successes throughout the year. The first one that springs to my mind is the superb display created for the ‘Sherborne Qatar 10 Year Anniversary Mindful Challenge’. Hamad House also showed that it has some of the best mathematicians in the school, dominating every maths Inter-House event.

Hamad pupils also had some incredible successes in the arts and creative aspects of Inter-House. Our pupils enjoyed success in the ‘Forced Perspective’ Photography Inter-House. We also had our Hamad Band perform this year. They played an incredible and fitting rendition of ‘We Are The Champions’ by Queen. Our Hamad Fanzine was a superb piece of originality that our team created from scratch.

Sport has famously been an Achilles heel for Hamad House in recent years. Once again, there was blood, sweat and tears for Hamad pupils in the active challenges. We had some highs but we also had the lows to go with it. While frustrations were rising, our pupils were encouraged to realise that through perseverance and determination, our day on the court/pitch/table will come. Sports Day epitomised this feeling for Hamad House. Despite some magnificent performances, it was not to be as Hamad House finished in 5th place.

One moment that will live on in many pupils’ memories is the moment in assembly where they found out they had jumped into 1st place. The sense of elation and pride in the room was felt by everyone. If this year had not been cut short, who knows, maybe we could have jumped into 1st place again. One thing is for sure, I am excited to see what Hamad House can bring to the table in 2020/21.

Mr. Curneen - Head of Hamad House

“I feel proud and challenged being a member of Hamad House, especially while holding a leadership role. With the success of last year, it naturally put pressure on us to perform again and it was amazing to see people rise up to the challenge.

SYED ZAIN ALI - YEAR 13 HOUSE VICE CAPTAIN

I feel lucky to be in such a hard-working house. I like how we have charity weeks instead of charity day because it brings the houses together and we raised more money.

RAIHAH NOOR CHAUDHRY - YEAR 9

I really like how we are fundraising for UWS - it really makes me feel happy and proud that our school is doing this. In all of the schools I have been to, Sherborne Qatar is the only school which has fundraised so much money. I feel very proud to be in Hamad with my fellow friends and Mr Curneen was very inspiring for us to keep on striving.

ZAARA SYED - YEAR 8

I love being part of Hamad House because everyone is so supportive of each other and I always feel comfortable around people in my house at Inter-House because I know that if I do something wrong, as long as I have tried my best I will be supported through the activity.

EMILY DOBISON - YEAR 11

The netball Inter-House was my highlight, the team worked well together and we came 2nd.

AMA SAEED - YEAR 9

“

I feel great. It is a good feeling to feel knowing that a couple of years ago we used to finish last in everything but now we are contenders for the title.

AARON JERVIS - YEAR 9

L A N D C O P E H O U S E

Having had a successful summer term last year, finishing it in 1st place, it was always going to be difficult to continue this form. However, we are lucky in Copeland House, blessed with outstanding individuals, levels of commitment and togetherness. Pupils have achieved well across our new A-TEAM system which enables pupils to participate across many disciplines throughout the year. This new system has shown the diversity of talents we have at our disposal in the House, from continued outstanding sporting performances, to showcasing our artistic and musical talents as well as showing great skill sets in technological, mindful and employable orientated themes. There have been many memorable moments this year related to the talents and ‘all for one attitude’ of Copeland House pupils. The highlights include:

◊ Winning the first 3 combined active events in September and October. These include great performances linking to the Rugby World Cup and the Doha Athletics Championships.

◊ Winning the technical challenges in late January. Well done to our junior pupils who took part in the science and business-related activities.

◊ Consistency throughout the year in the field of the arts. Well done to the pupils who brought us success in mid and late January. They took part in 3 different events consisting of art, media and photography.

◊ Winning the employable section at the end of February. Well done those pupils involved in the water challenge event.

◊ Finally, for winning the first mystery challenge of the year (the Haka) and a 2nd victory in the mystery challenge in early February (zombie survival).

In conclusion, I am extremely proud to be the Head of House for Copeland. The House system is a unique opportunity we all have that is not available in many schools. I would therefore like to firstly encourage a continuation of your efforts and commitment next year, as well as saying a massive well done and thank you to all pupils and staff members of Copeland for a memorable year. The target next year is to get out of the ‘mid table’ battle and to therefore challenge for the top honors. Getting our hands on the House Cup must be the target!

Mr. White - Head of Copeland House

‘Dear Year 7's and 8's,

I am very proud of all the work that we have achieved this year. It has been a great year, especially at Sports Day. We had many amazing achievements over the year and the participation in the House events have been very impressive too. Overall, I am honoured to be Junior House-Captain for Copeland and hope the great work will be sustained for many more years.’

MAY-LIAN - YEAR 8 - JUNIOR HOUSE - CAPTAIN

‘This has been a fantastic year as House Captain of Copeland, and we have plenty to be proud of. As captain, I’ve seen our participation rate jump to 90% and we’ve been excellent in artistic events all year and put in commendable performances in sporting and employable events. I would like to point out how amazing my senior and junior team have been, they have helped me all year-round arranging events and I do not think this year would have been as successful without them. Being part of Copeland House really added to my Sherborne and Sixth Form experience, and I am eternally grateful for that. Well done Copeland on another amazing year.’

KARLA HARLETT, YEAR 13, SENIOR HOUSE - CAPTAIN

As a House, at the beginning of the year, Copeland was mustering a mere mid-70% participation rates across the whole House. Since then, participation rates have shot through the roof, up to 90% and above in some weeks. This is due to many different factors. Firstly, the introduction of A-TEAM, which allows everyone to get involved, not only in sports, but in other areas, like technology. But most importantly, the hard work, dedication and motivation of all our pupils. The senior school have exceled in all parts of the Inter-House year. Whilst excelling at Sports Day and in the active side of House life, we also showed great teamwork to pull off a massive spaghetti and marshmallow tower and cracking codes in the teamwork exercises. Furthermore, the perseverance for some of our members to enter without much preparation into the debate competition highlight’s the hard work put in. In the more-musical side of life, the House put on immense Haka performances, winning by a country mile, and the musical duo who performed A-Team by Ed Sheeran, fitting to the name introduced to Inter-House, made the Copeland name proud.’

OLIVER KINNAIRD-BARR - YEAR 12 - SENIOR VICE - CAPTAIN

“

H O U S E

CUTLER HOUSE

This year once again, Cutler has shown it is a House of many talents. At the start of the year, the House system introduced the A TEAM model to give pupils the chance to showcase their talents in a range of activities. Cutler rose to the challenge with pupils able to showcase their strengths as well as many trying new experiences. In two out of the six categories, Active and Mindful, Cutler has scored more points than any other House. These achievements demonstrate the hard work, perseverance and teamwork of the pupils in our House.

We also saw more change with a move from each House running separate charity events to working together, where pupils across the school showed kindness to those less fortunate and demonstrated responsibility in making the world a better place than it was yesterday. This resulted in the school raising more for UWS than any other year I have been at the school - in excess of QAR 60,000. The pupils should be really proud of what they achieved as a team.

This year I also had the privilege of escorting 12 Senior School pupils to the Prep School where they helped with the annual Cross-Country event. From Cutler, Olivia Keefe (Year 8) and Anoushka Malviya (Year 9) did a fantastic job of cheering on the pupils, showing responsibility, as well as respect for the younger pupils (whilst ensuring the Prep pupils showed their honesty with following the course!).

Sports Day saw some great achievements for Cutler who spent most of the day at the top of the leaderboard, winning in a variety of track, field, and team sports. However, the title was yet again snatched from under us in the final relays. However, this does not detract from the fun, excitement, and hard work our pupils put into the day.

Cutler is also proud of the pupils who achieved their Full Colours for House this year, in recognition of their years of hard work and dedication to Cutler. Well done Year 13 pupils Jeyla Guliyeva and Laila Salem.

Mr. Roberts - Head of Cutler House

I'm very proud to be a member of Cutler House this year, especially since being chosen as a Charity Representative. My favourite memories of our House this year have been Sports Day, where I got to make many new friends in Cutler and the Charity Weeks, because they were very successful, and we raised a lot of money. I hope to play a big part in helping Cutler next year too.

AREEN AL HYASSAT - YEAR 11

‘I’m really happy with how our Charity fundraising has changed. It’s more focused on our goal as a school and everyone working together to reach it but still includes competition which motivates each house to think of creative and effective ways to raise money.’

JEYLA GULIYEVA - YEAR 13

“‘This year we changed to a new Inter-House system, A TEAM. Personally, I think it worked really well as every pupil was able to participate in something they enjoyed doing. Our Charity Weeks have been more amazing than ever as we all united as a school to raise as much money as possible. Sports Day was wonderful as we had more activities, making the day more fun and enjoyable for pupils and staff. On a whole, Cutler has shown incredible teamwork and perseverance this year, and I'm excited to find out how we do in the future.’

OLIVIA KEEFE - YEAR 8

The changes to the Inter-House system this year with the introduction of ‘A TEAM’ activities have meant that Inter-House is a much more inclusive event. I have personally participated in a range of interesting activities which included the HAKA challenge, marshmallow tower challenge and for my last InterHouse at Sherborne Qatar I participated in mixed netball, which was my personal favourite, where Cutler managed to win in a heated final against Ahmed House. While the competitive side of Charity Weeks will be missed the change to it being a whole school event made it easier to coordinate activities, spread the workload and most importantly raise more money.

LAILA SALEM - YEAR 13

S E

COOK HOUSE

Cook House pupils effectively took part in the whole school Inter-House which covered a diverse range of areas (Sports, Languages, Debating, Humanities, Technological, Drama, Arts and Mystery challenges). This year, I have been particularly proud in pupils’ involvement in all the different areas. I was particularly thrilled to see each and every hard-working and committed Cook House tutee in preparation for our Charity Days. Cook pupils gave it their best. I would like to thank all my pupils and Cook staff for a wonderful year again! From Year 7 to Y13 we all work together as a family

Ms. Khayari - Head of Cook House

On Charity Days, everyone in Cook House never fails to come together and participate driven with compassion and kindness.

BOUCHRA BENDOU - YEAR 11 - VICE HOUSE CAPTAIN

‘The new format of Inter-House has brought Cook even closer together. The A-TEAM structure ensured everyone could participate with so many activities to take part in. Watching pupils from different year groups come together to achieve their best across each of these sections is commendable. It showed how well all of Cook House can work together as “A-TEAM”.

BARAAH ALI - YEAR 13

I really enjoyed Sports Day because Cook House contributed as a team and tried their best. I also liked how determined and competitive our House was to win. I cannot wait for next year’s Sports Day at Aspire.

NGONI MUTEZO - YEAR 10

H O U S E M O Z

MOZA HOUSE

No doubt this year had proved to be a difficult one due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It had abruptly interrupted our lives and put much of our activities on hold. Moza House are like a family, and we hope that everyone has kept safe during the difficult period.

We had a change of format to Inter-House competitions this year with six areas of Active, Technology, Employable, Artistic, Mindful and Mystery, all carrying equal weighting for points. Moza House, being traditionally strong in Active, knew this year was going to be tough. Our goal for was to do what no House has ever accomplished in the history of Sherborne Qatar, to win the trophy three times in a row! But we got off to a bad start, lingering 5th place for most of the first half of term. We soon started adapted and started pushing up the ladder.

Our first success this year was to win the Charity Cup, with all Houses working together to raise money for UWS. We raised a huge amount that will go a long way to helping children in Cambodia. We had an event called Football Manager where the Charity Cup came up for grabs. Pupils had a chance to bid for staff in an auction, the tournament was thrilling and a huge success. We lifted the Charity Cup by winning all our games. Special thanks to Moza Faisal Al Thani, Year10, Year 9 pupils Mohammed Jassim Al Thani and Ahmed Mohammed Al Thani and Shaikha Jassim Al Thani in Year 7 who generously supported the cause and managed the team.

Our second success came on Sports Day. It was really close call with Cutler House on top throughout most of the day. However, we came from bottom place, winning most of our events on the track to slowly push our way to the top. Our best performances came from the Girls in Year 7-8 and Boys in Year 9-13. Special mention to Ana Ventorim & Omar Al Masri, Year 7, Emily Spicer Gregory & Max Saunders, Year 8, Isabela Ventorim, Year 9, Mariam Hannoun & Muhammad Abdullah, Year 10, Safia Mohamed Yousef, Year 11 and Jamila Badis, Year 13 who all made a huge contribution to this success.

On reflection, Moza pupils have demonstrated that they are not just great in one area, they excelled in other areas such Technological and Employable. A massive well done to all those who have contributed throughout the year. Some of our most consistent performers whom have also contributed in at least 4 of the 6 areas, these pupils are Hamda Al Naimi & Nour Haj Bakour, Year 7, Henry Kakkad, Year 8, Ayisha Potkins, Year 9, Rashid Al Kuwari & Mubarak Al Sulaiti, Year 10, Mustafa Malik, Year 12 and Khalid Abdullah, Andreas Pavlou and Jack Oldridge, Year 13, a massive well done!

It just goes to show that Moza House pupils have all round capabilities and even if the goal posts are moved, we adapt, and we will do our best. This is because together we play, together we win!

Mr. Ahmed - Head of Moza House

I am proud of Moza House being on the brink of winning the trophy for three years in a row, as it has never been done before. It is always fun arranging charity events and putting hard work and dedication into it.

MOZA FAISAL AL THANI - YEAR 10 CHARITY REP.

“ “

Being in Moza this year has been a truly amazing experience, I really enjoyed how we put the team first.

NATALI HAJ BAKOUR - YEAR 10 LOWER SENIOR VICE-CAPTAIN

I was able to help maintain the team spirit and genuine sense of community that I have always been so glad to be a part of throughout my time at Sherborne Qatar.

THOMAS QUINN - YEAR 13 SENIOR HOUSE CAPTAIN

S “ “ “ “ “

This year has been my second in a leadership role for Moza house. I take great pride in captaining the middle Senior age group. This year has brought so many great successes and to pick a particular moment from the countless I've had the pleasure of sharing with my Moza peers would be incredibly difficult. However, I enjoyed Sports Day immensely along with the Active and technological house events. I look forward to the bright future with Moza and can't wait to get back to competing for the house cup again !

SAUL

SAUNDER

TEAMS

GIRLS' FOOTBALL

Back Row (L-R): Evie Tobin, Jana Kamel, Amelie Joseph, Misam Elsheikh, Tiara Osiago Front Row (L-R): Noor Ibrahim, Ana Ventorim, Vera Tramullas Bonet (C), Aliza Juma, Nouran Shehata

Back Row (L-R): Alba Confalone, Emily Spicer Gregory, Kyla Corcoran, Peace Ndubisi, Aseel Elfaki Front Row (L-R): Ameera Hunashi, Salsabil Saif, Rebecca Mathew (C), Jumainah Haq, Emmasen Holmes

GIRLS' FOOTBALL

Back Row (L-R): Lina Dossa, Habiba Shehata, Jana Kamel, Haneen Ortashi, Nora El Gody, Ella McMahon, Sohaina Shaiq, Athmaar Yousef

Front Row (L-R): Alba Confalone, Sophia Hixson, Emily Spicer Gregory, Grace Lloyd, Khadija Ghaly (C), Isabela Ventorim, Maryam Ghaly, Marie Cabibihan

Back Row (L-R): Maryam Ghaly, Haneen Ortashi, Norain El Gebely, Skye Joseph, Lucy Younger, Karima Salem, Rachel Hallett

Front Row (L-R): Khadija Ghaly, Safia Yousef, Kashmala Afridi, Navashini Surenthiran (C), Uneiza Haque, Sophia Hixson, Athmaar Yousef

NETBALL

Back Row (L-R): Tiara Osiago, Jana Kamel, Amelie Joseph, Evie Tobin

Front Row (L-R): Hadeel Albagha, Yara Housayny, Ana Ventorim, Ameera Hunashi, Vera Tramullas Bonet

Back Row (L-R): Aliza Juma, Habiba Amer, Alexandra Cologne, Nuran Abdulla, Eshal Raheel, Emmasen Holmes Front Row (L-R): Faye Al Assadi, Malak Ezzeldin, Tala Baalousha, Noor Ibrahim

Back Row (L-R): Rebecca Mathew, Olivia Keefe, Neve Swindell, Kyla Corcoran Front Row (L-R): Divya Velupandian, Alba Confalone, Emily Spicer Gregory, Jumainah Haq, Maria Byreddy

Back Row (L-R): Zaara Syed, Adn Ashhab, Jana Kamel, Evie Tobin Front Row (L-R): Sneha Ranghall, Tiara Osiago, May-Lian Tham, Ana Ventorim

Back Row (L-R): Ella McMahon, Haneen Ortashi, Matilda Von Lutzow, Sama Saeed Front Row (L-R): Khadija Ghaly, Carmen Brown, Isabela Ventorim, Maryam Ghaly

Back Row (L-R): Omotoyosi Olagunju, Matilda Von Lutzow, Kristine Kalu Front Row (L-R): Elena Kohlfuerst, Daisy Kinnaird-Barr, Marie Cabibihan

Back Row (L-R): Rose McMahon, Jasmine Nabeih, Skye Joseph, Abigail Van Eck, Jumana Nabeih

Front Row (L-R): Navashini Surenthiran, Norain El Gebely, Kashmala Afridi, Bouchra Bendou, Karima Salem

Back Row (L-R): Bouchra Bendou, Areen Al Hyassat, Jumana Nabeih, Libby Wollaston Front Row (L-R): Tigen Osiago, Nadeen Khalil, Marwa Ansari, Emily Dobison

Back Row

(L-R): Karla Hallett, Annaelle

McKend, Maryam

Al Helou, Jana Elbanna

Front Row

(L-R): Caris Kibuka, Amira

Ismail, Lalia Salem, Lucia

Szucs, Fajr Elbanna

GIRLS' VOLLEYBALL

Back Row (L-R): Alba Confalone, Jana Kamel, Amelie Joseph, Emily Spicer Gregory Front Row (L-R): Nabilah Ahmed, Kyla Corcoran, Vera Tramullas Bonet, Ana Ventorim

Back Row (L-R): Sama Saeed, Haneen Ortashi, Matilda Von Lutzow, Ella McMahon Front Row (L-R): Khadija Ghaly, Carmen Brown, Isabela Ventorim, Sophia Hixson

GIRLS' VOLLEYBALL

Back Row (L-R): Hadeel Dossa, Skye Joseph, Abigail Van Eck, Areen Al Hyassat Front Row (L-R): Safia Yousef, Karima Salem, Norain El Gebely, Navashini Surenthiran

Back Row (L-R): Karima Salem, Areen Al Hyassat, Abigail Van Eck, Hadeel Dossa Front Row (L-R): Navashini Surenthiran, Lucia Szucs, Laila Salem, Safia Yousef

Back Row (L-R): Eshal Raheel, Tiara Osiago, Evie Tobin, Alexandra Cologne, Amelie Joseph, Misam Elsheikh, Talia Magbool

Front Row (L-R): Noor Ibrahim, Tala Baalousha, Ana Ventorim, Malak Ezzeldin, Hadeel Albagha, Aliza Juma, Vera Tramullas Bonet

Back Row (L-R): Emily Spicer Gregory, Rebecca Mathew, Sana Siddiquee, Kyla Corcoran, Zaara Syed, Sneha Ranglall Front Row (L-R): Maryam Mbaye, Maria Byreddy, Alba Confalone, May-Lian Tham, Jumainah Haq, Nabilah Ahmed

Back Row (L-R): Carmen Brown, Habiba Shehata, Elena Kohlfuerst, Ella McMahon, Daisy Kinnaird-Barr, Sama Saeed Front Row (L-R): Isla MacDonald, Nur Safeia M Sharizal, Sophia Hixson, Haneen Ortashi, Isabela Ventorim, Lina Dossa

Back Row (L-R): Nora El Gody, Raima Naweed, Matilda Von Lutzow, Kristine Kalu, Ludan Tajeldin, Omotoyosi Olagunju Front Row (L-R): Marie Cabibihan, Tunde Peter, Manaheel Barkey, Natali Bakour, Mahnoor Pirzado, Haneen Satti

GIRLS' RUGBY

Back Row (L-R): Jana Elbanna, Norain El Gebely, Rose McMahon, Skye Joseph, Farj Elbanna, Laila Salem, Nour Sennoun

Front Row (L-R): Safia Yousef, Rachel Hallett, Karima Salem, Hadeel Dossa (C), Daisy Kinnaird-Barr, Jana Kamel, Sophia Hixson

Back Row (L-R): Athmaar Yousef, Neve Swindell, Leen Satti, Haneen Ortashi, Nora El Gody, Jana Kamel, Olivia Keefe, Sophia Hixson

Front

Row (L-R): Stacey Boctor, Jumainah Haq, Rebecca Mathew, Alba Confalone (C), Lina Dossa, Emmasen Holmes, Noor Ibrahim

BOYS' FOOTBALL

Back Row (L-R): Isa Ali Ahmed Abdul Rahman, Omotayo Olagunju, Hamza Elsayed, Yhya Dib, Mazin Bashir, Ali Yassin Fagier, Omar Al Masri

Front Row (L-R): Sami Eltom, Yosreldin Samir, Anas Zweiri, Bill Anderson, Patrick Baron, Oliver Mills and Harry O'Donnell

Back Row (L-R): Abdulsamad Ahmed, Sonny Clayton, Ali Al Fayyadh, Julian Duncan, Wasay Afridi, Abdul Hakeem Peltier, Aiden Sherlock, Kareem Khan

Front Row (L-R): Fares Aljaibat, Ilyas Ahmed, Yousef Molokhia, Hamza Amin, Sajad Tajeldin, Elio Karam, Ali Elbih, Imaad Mosharraf

BOYS' FOOTBALL

Back Row (L-R): Liam Corcoran, Eamon Rawi, Ali Awadallah, Zineddine Badis, Asad Rathore, Corey Samura, Mohamad Al Shaheen, William Selwood

Front Row (L-R): Aaron Jervis, Rohan Martin, Basel Elfaki, Jamie Wollaston, Oliver De Jongh (C), Omar Youssef, Zeyad Mosharraf, Leo Confalone

Back Row (L-R): Shaheen Al Shaheen, Abdullah Al Khuwari, Abdullah Khan, Mohammed Al Mesallam, Samuel Kinnaird Barr, Daniel Ventorim, Abdullah Ibrahim

Front Row (L-R): Ibrahim Al Azawi, Ghanim Al Naimi, Jack Tobin, Aaron Swindell (C), Mohamed Elsayed, Salahudin Abu Munshar

Front Row

Back Row

(L-R): Thomas Quinn, Leo Cabibihan, Alexander Head, Mustafa Malik, Abdullah Fakhroo, Ahmed

Mohamed, Syed Zain Ali, Alharith Al Rushaidi

(L-R): Ifian Bin Ishan, SK Mohammad Nayhaan

Rahman, Oliver Kinnaird-Barr, Lucas

Oldridge, Nadir Salimzade, Hanley Hilton, Jack Oldridge

BOYS' VOLLEYBALL

Back Row (L-R): Liam Corcaron, Oliver De Jongh, Zineddine Badis, Tamim Abdulfatah

Front Row (L-R): Basel Elfaki, Leo Confalone (C), Adam Suteu

Back Row (L-R): Dylan De Jongh, Bill Anderson, Wasay Afridi Front Row (L-R): Elio Karam, Aiden Sherlock (C), Fahad Al Horr

BOYS' VOLLEYBALL

Back Row (L-R): Alexander Head, Christopher North, Jack Tobin

Front Row (L-R): Abdullah Khan, Daniel Ventorim (C), Abdulla Seyam

Back Row (L-R): Alexander Head, Mustafa Malik, Oliver Kinnaird Barr

Front Row (L-R): Daniel Ventorim, Lucas Oldridge (C), Jack Oldridge

Rowan Watson, Joel Nowuram,

Back Row (L-R):

Joe Kind, Timo Horn, Max Eite, Rory Van Eck, Noah Hanna Front Row (L-R): Sami Eltom, Anas Zweiri, Jana Kamel, Max Saunders (C), Patrick Baron, Harry O'Donnell

Back Row (L-R): Aaron Swindell, Christopher North, Amir Khattab, Ali Salman, Mustafa Malik, Omar Abdelaziz Middle Row (L-R): Alsiddig Elamin, Daniel Ventorim, Samuel Kinnaird-Barr, Ziyad El Ansari, Kareem El Ansari, Samuel Gomez Front Row (L-R): Muhammad Abdullahi, Anas Abelmoula, Morgan Watson (VC), Oliver Kinnaird-Barr (C), Mohamed Ahmeda, Zakarya Ahmeda. Not pictured: Salmaan Shah, Abde Hassaan, Jack Oldridge (U18), Lucas Oldridge (U18), Christopher Williams (U18), Leo Confalone (U15), Charlie Mathers, Darshan Gangineni

SENIOR CROSS COUNTRY

Back Row:

Daniel Ventorim, Elias

Idris

Loughreit, Jack

Tobin, Aaron Swindell, Samuel Kinnaird-Barr, Talha Ghauri

Front Row: Ngoni Mutezo, Rayyan Nazvi, Mohamed Ahmeda, Saul Saunders, Saoban Safavi, Mohamed Elsayed

Front Row (L-R): Vera Tramullas Bonet, Anas Zweiri, Jumainah Haq, Omotayo Olagunju, Yara Housayny, Ana Ventorim, Omar Al Masri, Emmasen Holmes, Patrick Baron, Sajad Tajeldin

Middle Row (L-R): Ali Yassin Fagier, Elio Karam, Emily Spicer Gregory, Kyla Corcoran, Hamza Elsayed, Rebecca Mathew, Andrew Rammouz, Matthew MacIntosh, Tiara Osiago

Back Row (L-R): Sonny Clayton, Sofia Rouzier Spinks, Aiden Sherlock, Peace Ndubisi, Timo Horn, Bill Anderson, Julian Duncan, Jana Kamel, Amelie Joseph, Joe Kind

Bursar

There is little doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic will have created a shadow over the academic year 2019-2020. Certainly, it is not a year that will be easily forgotten. Whilst it has challenged every aspect of our lives, I believe it has also helped us to appreciate the simple things that we may have taken for granted.

Iexpect that many of our pupils may have thought more about school than they would have done previously. School offers a place to meet and make new friends. School creates opportunities for academic fulfilment, challenge physical capabilities through sport and provide a space to engage with other people and learn about yourself and the world around you. Crucially, school creates independence and provides the foundation on which children and young people establish their own identity and values.

Despite the difficulties imposed on us by the pandemic, we have not lost sight of what is important for our pupils. We have continued to make sure that we can provide the resources and facilities that our children will need to fulfil their ambitions.

Our new Sherborne Qatar School for Girls is on target to open in the new academic year. The Girls’ school promises to provide amazing and different learning options as it focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).

Next academic year will also be a busy one as the senior school prepares to move to the new school site at the Mall of Qatar scheduled to open 2021/22. A display on the design and facilities at the new school can be found in the reception area at the Bani Hajer site.

Completion of the new multi-purpose hall at the Al Rayyan site has completed the 3-year development plan at this campus. I am very pleased that Sherborne has made so much progress with these planned developments. At some point in the future, most of us will reach a point where we will say goodbye to our peers and colleagues. This will be true for many of our pupils and staff. The time has come for me to say farewell as I plan to retire at the end of the year. I have worked in the education sector for more than 30 years and will miss being surrounded by young people whose energy, humour and enthusiasm have always served as great inspiration to me.

Working in Qatar has helped me to fulfil a long-held ambition. I am leaving with a wealth of knowledge that I will always treasure. I will return to my home country much richer for the experience and with a more complete perspective about myself. I wish to pay tribute to the team of bursary staff with whom I have worked very closely. None of us achieve in isolation and the projects outlined above as well as the daily routines of organsing a school that is safe and fit for purpose are examples of the mutual co-operation and collaboration of these teams. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to have worked alongside colleagues who understand how to bring out the best in each other. They have been generous in sharing their skills and knowledge and I have been amazed at their work ethic and capacity to make things happen, even when it has seemed impossible. I also acknowledge the support and expertise from my colleagues at our Head Office, Sharaka Holdings.

I wish you all continue to experience success, to feel fulfilled and most of all to seek out what makes you feel happy and content. It has been a pleasure and indeed a privilege working for Sherborne Qatar and I will genuinely miss it. I take with me fond memories, valuable skills and no regrets.

My love and best wishes to you all.