It is with great pride that I introduce this edition of TBS Community News, a studentled and student-written newspaper that showcases the energy, creativity, and passion of our learners here at TBS Warsaw. This newspaper is a shining example of the enriching opportunities available through our LEAP provision. At TBS, we believe that education extends beyond the core curriculum. It is about nurturing the whole child, encouraging curiosity, developing skills, and providing authentic platforms for students to explore their interests and share their perspectives with the wider community.
TBS Community News has been carefully crafted by our Year 5 and 6 students. I know from the interview requests and questions they have asked me, that they have taken full ownership of the project, from brainstorming content ideas to conducting interviews and editing their work. Their enthusiasm is wonderful to see, and this newspaper is a testament to what our students can achieve when given the support to succeed and the freedom to make their own choices.
Student voice is so important and it is therefore key that we allow children the space to share their ideas. We want our students to know that their opinions matter, that their creativity is valued, and that their voices can help shape our school community. This newspaper is a powerful
way to celebrate that commitment and to make space for thoughtful, informed, and imaginative expression.
In addition to being a meaningful enrichment activity, the newspaper also provides an opportunity for students to apply their PLGs and key skills and knowledge in real-world contexts. From persuasive writing and research, to collaboration and adaptability, the skills they’ve developed while working on this project are closely linked to our curriculum and the values we have as an IPC school, demonstrating the practical power of a strong education.
We are incredibly proud of every student involved in this issue. They are shining examples of enthusiastic learners that make up our community. Their work is a reminder of what young people can accomplish when their talents are nurtured, and their voices are heard.
Congratulations to all our young journalists for their time and effort in creating this issue of TBS Community News.
Thomas Holmes Head of Primary
CONTENTS
SCHOOL LIFE
The New Term at TBS
Interview with Mr Holmes
Mr Thompson Interview
Student Council: Making a Difference at TBS
What We Could Improve in the School
Happiness
Uniforms
All About Our Uniforms
Hidden talents at TBS
Favourite subjects
EVENTS
Superhero Day!
PLG SUPERHERO DAY
Put Your Hands Together for the Wizard of Oz
PRIMARY ROCKING YEAR 24/25
Lunar New Year
Ramadan
International Dog Day
CONTENTS
OPINIONS
Favorite School Subjects
Best Ways to Beat Boredom at School
How Do Journalists Make Newspapers?
PASSIONS
Nature Tigers
Hello kittens!
Protecting animals
Have a pawsome day
By Emma and Alice, Year 6
The New Term at TBS
The new term will soon be here after summer finishes. That means new classes, new teachers, and even new friends for everyone. Some teachers are getting new jobs, and for a few, the school itself is new. We wanted to find out what people think about the new term and what could be improved at our school. At the beginning of the year, we talked to various members of the school community to learn more about their hopes and expectations for 2024/25. In this article you can find out what they through then and our reflections on this school year.
As you may know, Ms Sue Hill, our previous principal, left. We have welcomed a new principal, Mr John Brett. Many students might not know him well yet, so let’s meet him and hear what he thought back in the Autumn term about the school and the year ahead.
We interviewed Mr Brett and he shared with us that before coming to Warsaw, he was the principal at Beijing British School in China for six years. Recently, he wanted to move closer to his home country, England, and be nearer to his family. When he heard that TBS
in Poland needed a new principal, he visited us in January, even though it was cold and snowy. He thought the snow was beautiful! Poland is much closer to England than China, so he chose our school. Mr Brett says the
best part of being here is meeting the new students from both primary and secondary. He enjoys saying “Hello” and chatting with them. He told us that he believes that if something can improve students’ learning or school life, then it’s worth changing.
Mr Brett has lots of hobbies too! He likes playing golf and loves music. He listens to all kinds of music and even writes some himself. His wife teaches Drama, so they often work together—she designs the plays, and he writes music for them. He also enjoys cooking and really liked the food in China. Mr Brett finds learning about new cultures exciting, especially since China and Poland are very different
Now, let’s meet two teachers who were new to our school in September or had new roles: Ms Write and Mrs Fawcett.
Ms Write is from Scotland. When she was little, she wanted to be a vet because she loves animals. But she decided to become a teacher instead. She really wants a dog, which is her favourite animal right now. Her hobby is writing stories, and she hopes to get one published someday so children can read it. She likes getting feedback and thinking about how to improve her writing. She recommends
that we all do this, especially after finishing projects or stories. Mrs Fawcett taught Year 6 last year but in September moved to teach
Year 2. We thought she deserved an interview because that’s a big change! She’s been very busy but is enjoying it because she can improve her skills and help the children learn. The Year 2 class had a new and exciting IPC topic this year. Mrs Fawcett says that many Year 2 children need help with reading because they sometimes spell words wrong or find harder words tricky. At the start of the year, the children were very excited to be in Year 2. She also said that she had to explain tasks in smaller steps for Year 2 students, or they might get confused. Year 6 students can usually understand longer instructions all at once.
Not many people know this, but Mrs Fawcett has lived in four different countries. She has lived in Malaysia, famous for its amazing food; Austria, with beautiful views of the Alps; Ukraine, known for its lovely beaches; and now Poland, our home. Although she has enjoyed living in all these places, Malaysia was her favourite country to teach in. Some of her hobbies include going to the gym, travelling, trying new foods, and most of all, spending time with friends and family, even those who live far away.
In September, our school will be full of exciting changes and new faces again. Everyone is looking forward to learning, making friends, and having a great year together.
By Carmen and Stella, Year 5
Interview with Mr Holmes
In addition to the teacher that TBS Community News reporters wrote about in the previous article, another teacher who took on a new role that academic year was Mr Holmes. Previously the Deputy Head, he became the Head of Primary. In December, we had the chance to interview Mr Holmes and learn more about his job and school life.
Mr Holmes told us that being the Head of Primary was a cool and important job. He said he really enjoyed it and didn’t find anything bad about his work. When we asked about his friends, he smiled and said his best friend was his wife!
One thing Mr Holmes wanted to improve was how some children used their classroom charts. These charts helped everyone follow the rules and learn better. He also talked about the library rules. In the library, it was very important
to be quiet. If someone was loud, they might have had to leave! On Fridays, only the reading agents were allowed in the library to help keep it calm.
Exciting news! Our primary school library was going to get a renovation soon to make it even better for all of us.
Mr Holmes also told us about the Christmas fair that happened on December 6th. All Year 5 students made Christmas plates to sell, and the money raised helped orphanages in South Poland that had been damaged by floods. It was great to see our school helping charities and supporting people in need.
There were lots of fun clubs that year, and Year 5 was busy preparing for the Christmas concert. The planets Saturn and Jupiter sang “Last Christmas,” with Mr Blake playing the piano. Some other students also performed. Plus, there was a musical called The Wizard of Oz later that year!
Mr Tompson interview
By Hanna, Year 5
Another teacher who changed roles this year was Mr Thompson. He moved from teaching Year 4 to Year 6 and also took on a new responsibility in student leadership. In this role, he helps students make changes around the school to improve their learning and school life.
Student leadership is very important in a primary school because it gives students a chance to share their ideas and help make the school a better place. When students have a voice, they feel more involved and happy at school. It also helps teachers and staff understand what students need and want, so everyone can work together to create a friendly and fun environment. After our interview, Mr Thompson said he likes to eat fish and chips from England. He enjoys the school’s “Superhero Day” event, and outside of school, his favourite thing is pretending to be a pirate and saying “Arrrr” instead of hello! His favourite book is To Kill a Mockingbird by Tom Holland.
Student Council: Making a Difference at TBS
By Zayed, Year 5
The Student Council at The British School Warsaw (TBS) plays an important role in our school community. It is made up of students from different year groups who work together to make sure everyone’s voice is heard. The council acts as a link between the students and the school leaders, sharing ideas and making the school a better place for everyone.
The Student Council does more than just organize fun events like bake sales and talent shows. It helps students learn important skills like leadership, responsibility, and teamwork. The council welcomes any students from Year 2 to Year 6 who want to get involved and make a difference. A teacher helps make sure everyone takes part, but the students are the
ones who come up with ideas and work hard to make things happen. Being on the Student Council is a great way to help plan exciting activities like dances and spirit days, and to make sure everyone’s opinions matter.
Student Council is also a lot of fun! You get to work with friends, plan cool events like pep rallies and talent shows, and make the school a more exciting place. It feels amazing to see everyone enjoying something you helped organize, and you get to be part of important decisions that affect the whole school.
In conclusion, the Student Council is a fantastic way to have fun, share your ideas, and help make TBSW a better place. I hope you enjoyed learning about the Student Council and maybe you’ll want to join too!
Next year, be sure to apply for a role on a Student Leadership group so that you can help change our school.
KS3 Student Council installed water fountains at school.
Advice for Students for the Upcoming New School Year
By Letitia, Year 5
INTRODUCTION
The beginning of the school year can be challenging and emotional for many students. You might find yourself making new friends or adapting to a new language and environment. For teachers, it can also be a time of adjustment as they get to know their students and settle into the school routine. Remember, it’s important for everyone to listen to the school rules to help create a positive and respectful atmosphere.
FOR NEW STUDENTS
Starting at a new school can sometimes feel difficult, especially if you don’t know many people or find the work challenging. But don’t worry — within a few months, you will likely make new friends and feel more comfortable. One student shared that they really enjoy this school because there are many students from different nationalities, which makes it a welcoming and diverse place. So, be open, friendly, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it!
FOR ALL STUDENTS: RESPECT YOUR TEACHERS
Teachers play a very important role in your school community. They are here to help you learn and grow. One teacher said that what they like most about this school is the children — thatmeans you! Showing respect and kindness to your teachers will help you have a great year.
EXCITING PLANS FOR THE YEAR
This year, the school is planning to improve the library, and they want your ideas on what changes would make it better. Also, the school has student leadership teams who organise competitions and activities throughout the year. If you take part, you might even win a prize! Getting involved in these events is a great way to make friends and have fun.
Final Tip: Embrace the new school year with a positive attitude. Be patient with yourself and others, get involved, and remember that everyone is learning and growing together. Have a fantastic year ahead!
What we could improve in the school
By Valerie, Year 5
Firstly, I want to talk about some important things we can improve at school. Schools are meant to be places for learning, growing, and being creative. Our school is a happy place where students feel safe and enjoy coming every day. However, like any school, there are some problems we need to work on to make it even better for everyone.
BULLYING
Bullying is when someone uses force, teasing, or hurtful words to upset or scare others. It often happens more than once and can make people feel sad or scared. Have you ever seen someone being bullied at school? If you do, it’s important to stand up for them, especially if they are your friend or family. You can always talk to a teacher, a parent, or another adult you trust. Sometimes friends who have been bullied can also help. Our school works hard to stop bullying and make sure everyone feels safe and happy.
SLIPS, TRIPS, AND FALLS
Sometimes accidents happen because of wet floors, uneven surfaces, or things left in hallways. These can cause sprains, bumps, or worse. Our playground equipment is checked to keep it safe during break times. When floors are
wet, cleaners put up signs to warn us so we don’t slip. They are just doing their job to keep the school clean and safe for everyone.
UNIFORMS
I interviewed three students about our school uniforms: Carmen, Alice, and Henri. Carmen thinks the primary school uniforms should be the same as the secondary ones, with ties, white shirts, and trousers. Alice likes the uniforms but would prefer the white shirts from secondary school. Henri likes the uniforms just as they are and wouldn’t change anything. I think the most important thing is that uniforms are comfortable, and ours definitely are! Our school is a friendly place where
students enjoy learning and playing together. By working on these small problems, we can make it even better for everyone.
Some students also mentioned that wearing uniforms helps us feel like we belong to the school community. It makes everyone equal, so no one feels left out because of what they wear. Plus, uniforms are easy to get ready in the morning, which means less stress and more time to focus on learning and having fun with friends. Overall, while some ideas for small changes were shared, most agree that our uniforms are a good balance of smart and comfortable.
TEACHERS
Another way to make school better is by getting to know each other, including our teachers! For example, finding out what teachers do after school can help us feel closer to them. Our school
newspaper reporters investigated this and found out that some teachers do yoga at school, while others play football after school. I interviewed Mr Karthik Kurup, who told me that every Friday at 4:30 pm, teachers gather on the football pitch to play a friendly game. Mr Kurup plays football too, and he’s really good! The group usually has 12 to 14 players but would love to have more join. They want more activities for the staff because last year they had a board game club, but it was cancelled for reasons unknown. It’s great to see teachers having fun and staying active, and it shows that school is not just for students but a community for everyone.
Uniforms
SCHOOL UNIFORMS
At The British School of Warsaw, wearing uniforms is part of our daily school life. But have you ever wondered what students and teachers really think about them? Why do we have uniforms, and do everyone like wearing them? To find out, I interviewed some Year 5 students and teachers to get their honest opinions.
First, I spoke to Student 1 from Year 5 Venus.
Reporter: Do you like uniforms?
By Emilia, Antonella and Jiayi Year 5
Student 1: No, I don’t. I think kids should have the right to choose what they wear.
Reporter: What would you change about the uniforms?
Student 1: Maybe the colour, but I would prefer not to have uniforms at all.
Reporter: Which do you prefer, uniforms or non-uniform?
Student 1: Non-uniform.
Reporter: Why do you think teachers gave us uniforms?
Student 1: Because when we go on trips, it’s easier to find students and it helps us represent our school.
Next, I talked to Student 2, another Year 5 student.
Reporter: Do you like uniforms?
Student 2: Yes, I do.
Reporter: Why do you like them? Student 2: Because in the morning, we don’t have to think about what to wear.
Reporter: Why do you think teachers gave us uniforms?
Student 2: To represent The British School Warsaw.
I also interviewed Ms Hill, a Year 6 teacher.
Reporter: Why do we have uniforms? Ms Hill: I think uniforms are important because they make everyone equal.
Reporter: What do you think about losing uniforms? Ms Hill: It’s sad because parents have to pay again since uniforms are expensive. But it’s easier to find lost uniforms if students write their names on them.
Finally, I spoke to Mr McConnell, the Deputy Head of Primary.
Reporter: Why do we have uniforms? Mr McConnell: Uniforms stop children from competing about their clothes.
Reporter: Why do you think uniforms are important? Mr McConnell: Uniforms help teachers because students focus more on learning instead of their clothes. The only problem is that students sometimes lose their uniforms, but writing names on them helps stop this.
HOW TO KEEP TRACK OF YOUR UNIFORM
Losing uniform pieces can be frustrating, but there are some easy ways to avoid it. Always write your name clearly on every item, like shirts, jumpers, and jackets. Try to keep your uniform in the same place at home and in your school bag so it doesn’t get mixed up or forgotten. When you take off your jumper or jacket, hang it up or fold it neatly. If you’re on a school trip, make sure to check you have all your uniform pieces before leaving. By being organised and careful, you can keep your uniform safe and save your parents from having to buy new ones!
In conclusion, uniforms at The British School of Warsaw have both supporters and those who would prefer more freedom. While some students like the simplicity and sense of belonging uniforms bring, others wish for more choice and comfort. Teachers agree that uniforms help create equality and reduce distractions. Whether you love them or not, uniforms are an important part of our school life and help us represent our community. What do you think about wearing uniforms?
All About Our Uniforms
At The British School of Warsaw, we wear uniforms every day. We try our best to make them more colourful and comfortable for everyone. Sometimes, we have special non-uniform days where we can dress up! For example, on International Kids’ Day, we all wore blue because it is the kids’ colour. On PLG Superhero Day, we dressed up as superheroes, which was really fun!
We have uniforms so that it is easy to spot us when we go on trips. Most kids are happy with the colour of the uniform. Our PE uniforms are light and stretchy, so we can
By Yeva and Yueyue, Year 5
move easily. We also wear colours that show which house we belong to. On STEAM Day, for example, we can quickly see which house we are in by our colours.
When we have PE outside, even in winter, we wear special PE jumpers to keep warm. You can buy all the uniform items on the British School website. This includes PE clothes, skirts, ties for secondary students, and more. The school also gives us PE bags and water bottles with the school logo on them.
Our jumpers and cardigans are comfortable and warm, which helps us stay cosy during cold days. We don’t have special school shoes, but we wear black shoes with grey, white, or black socks.
We also do fun runs to raise money to help other schools. Everyone feels welcome at our school, and we invite new students to join us. You can find out more about our school all over the world. If you want to contact us, you can send messages on Seesaw from TBS.
Wearing our uniforms helps us feel proud to be part of The British School of Warsaw. What do you like about your school uniform?
Hidden Talents of TBS
By Evie, Year 6
Have you ever wondered if your classmates or teachers have secret talents that no one knows about? Our school newspaper club decided to find out! We asked some students and teachers about their hidden talents, and the answers were surprising and fun. Maybe you have a secret talent too, and you could be featured next!
Seungyoon shared, “I do horseriding. Yes, and?” It seems she’s a skilled rider, but keeps it cool about it.
When we asked Ms. Britton about her secret talent, she said it was a secret at first. But after some gentle questioning, she admitted she’s an excellent driver!
Mr. Hutchinson joked that his talent is shouting at children, but quickly explained that was just a joke. His real talent? Running!
Mr. Leivers impressed us all by saying he can do 10 handstand pushups against a wall—WOW! Not far behind, Dora can also do 3 handstand pushups, which is amazing.
Emma told us her hidden talent is staying up really late, while Alice
amazed us with her knowledge about the oceans—she can answer loads of questions!
Ruslan said, “I’m good at computers,” which is definitely a useful skill these days.
Sofia is great at basketball, Daho plays the piano beautifully, and Phoenix confidently said he can win video games easily .
Finally, Evie surprised us by revealing her secret talent: she can play football!
It’s incredible how many amazing talents there are at TBS. Maybe next time, your hidden talent will be in the spotlight! Keep practicing and never be afraid to share what makes you special.
By Valerie Year 5
PLG SUPERHERO DAY
On Friday the 10th of January 2025 we had an extremely special day, PLG superhero day. That day is special because all the teachers and students in the school come together in their classes and celebrate the Personal Learning Goals. The personal learning goals are the main actions that we want all the students to model for each other. Anyway, there are 8 PLG’s such as: Adaptable, Ethical, Collaborator, Resilience, Communication, Respect, Thinker and Empathetic. These are all the PLG’s we need at the British school. Now onto what the activities were, we made comic strips about situations that would need one of
the PLG superheroes to help solve it. For instance, my superhero comic strip was about the PLG thinker. So, my story started in a classroom where one little boy was practicing fractions, and he was really stuck suddenly the thinker PLG came in and helped him with his work! This day is always so nice because we can celebrate all our PLG amazing powers!
Wearing our uniforms helps us feel proud to be part of The British School of Warsaw. What do you like about your school uniform?
Superhero day
At The British School of Warsaw, we recently had an exciting event where different year groups came together to celebrate our Personal Learning Goals (PLGs). These goals are the qualities we try to show every day at school, and they are the inspiration for our PLG superheroes. The Personal Learning Goals are very important because they help us learn better in all subjects, including IPC (International Primary Curriculum) and others. For example, being a good communicator helps us work well in group projects, while being ethical helps us make fair choices in our learning and friendships.
During this special day, many classes worked on superhero comic strips and activities based on different PLGs:
· Mr. Thompson shared that Mrs. Hardaker’s class and his class teamed up to create comic strips about a PLG superhero.
· Ms. Babik explained that Year 3 and 4 focused on the Communicator PLG. The children took turns giving clear instructions to each other on how to draw a picture without seeing it, which helped improve their communication skills. Mr. McFarlane focused on the Ethical PLG by giving the children
By Carmen
unfair tasks to complete, leading to discussions about what being ethical really means.
· Ms. Page mentioned that Year 3 and 4 classes rotated around different classrooms to explore various PLGs.
· Mr. Cowper said that Year 5 Mercury created comic strips and acted like real superheroes. They also matched each PLG to its correct definition.
· Ms. Hill told us that Year 6 Rowan mixed with Year 5 Venus to play games that helped develop
communication skills before creating their own superhero comic strips.
These activities helped us understand the PLGs better and showed us how important they are for learning and working together. Using the PLGs in subjects like IPC helps us become better learners and better friends.
In conclusion, celebrating the Personal Learning Goals with superhero comic strips was a fun and meaningful way to learn about important skills like communication, ethics, and teamwork. These goals help us in all parts of school life
and prepare us to be confident, responsible learners. We look forward to more days like this where we can learn and grow together!revealing her secret talent: she can play football!
It’s incredible how many amazing talents there are at TBS. Maybe next time, your hidden talent will be in the spotlight! Keep practicing and never be afraid to share what makes you special.
By Veronika and Veronika, Year 5
Best Ways to Beat Boredom at School
Sometimes, at school, you might feel bored. It can happen to anyone—students, teachers, or even the janitors! Maybe you start thinking about sleep, stop paying attention for a little while, or fiddle with whatever you can find. You know you should focus, but it’s hard when you’re bored. So, what can you do to beat the boredom?
We asked some of your favourite people how they like to beat boredom, and here’s what they said:
· Henri: Doing maths!
· Yueyue: Waiting to go to the toilet.
· Zayed: Making paper airplanes.
· Ms Britton: Having a cup of coffee.
· Valerie: Messing around with pens.
Everyone is different, so what bores one person might not bore another. That means everyone has their own special way to stay interested and have fun, even when things get a bit dull.
Our school is a great place because we all find different ways to keep busy and enjoy learning. So next time you feel bored, try one of these ideas—or come up with your own! Remember, beating boredom helps you stay happy and ready to learn.
Favorite School Subjects
By Veronika, Year 5
School isn’t just about homework, tests, and rules—it’s also about the fun moments that make each day special! At The British School Warsaw, there are many subjects to choose from, like English, Maths, PE (Physical Education), and Music. Some subjects happen every day, while others, like PE or Music, only come once or twice a week. There are even some subjects that only happen a few times a year! Some classes are more relaxing, and others can be a bit hectic, but they all help us learn and grow.
We asked some students what their favorite subjects are, and the answers were interesting. Veronika from Year 5 said her favorite subject is Math . Carmen also chose Math , and Henri agreed with a big smile, saying MATH is his favorite too! It’s surprising how many people love Math, isn’t it?
Ms. Britton also has her favorite subjects, but she
didn’t share them this time. Maybe next time, we’ll find out!
So, why not ask your friends what their favorite subjects are? You might get some surprising answers! At the end of the day, all subjects are great because they help us discover new things and have fun learning.
By Sunny, Ella and Isabella, Year 6
Put your hands together for the Wizard of Oz
The Wizard of Oz: Our Primary School Musical
If you didn’t know, The Wizard of Oz was this year’s primary school musical! Many students and teachers were involved, and we interviewed some of them to find out what they thought about the show. We spoke to Mr Blake, Mrs Hardaker, and some of the main characters, including Dorothy, the Wicked Witch, Glinda, and others.
MEET THE CHARACTERS
· Dorothy – The main character (played by Phoebe and Hanya)
· Glinda – The good witch (Helenka and Harriet)
· Scarecrow – Dorothy’s friend (Joshua)
· Tin Man – Dorothy’s friend (Alice)
· Lion – Dorothy’s friend (Isabella)
· The Wizard of Oz – The ruler of Oz (Sunny)
· Wicked Witch of the West – The evil witch (Yara and Ella)
What They Said
We asked some of the cast and teachers about their experience:
Dorothy: “Did you like your role?” “Yes, we were very happy with our roles!”
Mr Blake: “Did you like the musical this year?” “Yes, I thought it was a great choice.”
Mrs Hardaker: “Was it hard to choose the characters?” “Yes and no. Some parts were hard to decide, but it was fun too.”
The Story of The Wizard of Oz
Dorothy Gale had a dog called Toto. Her grumpy neighbour, Mrs Gulch, tried to take Toto away. Dorothy’s Aunt Em and Uncle Henry tried to protect her, but she ran away to find Toto. On her way, she met Professor Marvel, who told her Aunt Em was sick. Dorothy rushed home but got caught in a hurricane. When the house landed, she found herself in Munchkin Land. The Munchkins told her she had killed the Wicked Witch of the East. Glinda, the good witch, gave Dorothy ruby slippers for protection. Dorothy then met the Wicked Witch of the West, who wanted the slippers.
Dorothy followed the yellow
brick road and met the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Lion. Together, they went to the Emerald City to find the Wizard of Oz. The Wizard told them to bring him the broomstick of the Wicked Witch of the West. After a scary battle, Dorothy melted the Wicked Witch by pouring water on her. They took the broomstick back to the Wizard, who flew away in a hot air balloon. Dorothy clicked the heels of her ruby slippers and went back home.
Looking Back
The Wizard of Oz was an amazing choice for this year’s primary musical. Many children joined the cast, and everyone was excited for the performances. It was a fantastic show!
By Olha, Year 6
Tigers
Introduction
Tigers are amazing and powerful animals that have lived on Earth for about 2 million years. Long ago, tigers roamed freely all over Asia. Today, their numbers are much smaller because people have hunted them and taken their homes. Many tigers now live in zoos. If you want to learn clever and interesting facts about tigers, keep reading!
Where Do Tigers Live?
Tigers can live in very different places. Some types of tigers live in cold areas like northeastern China and eastern Russia. These tigers
are usually bigger. Other tigers live in warmer countries such as Cambodia, Vietnam, Nepal, and India. Tigers like to live in places like evergreen forests, grasslands, tropical forests, and mangrove swamps.
What Do Tigers Eat?
Big tigers eat large animals like deer, zebras, bears, tapirs, and even young elephants. Smaller tigers eat rabbits, birds, fish, rodents, and reptiles. When they cannot find fresh meat, tigers sometimes eat dead animals to survive.
How Do Tigers Behave in the Wild?
Tigers are usually aggressive
because this helps them catch their food. They are territorial, which means they protect their home areas and do not like other tigers entering. Tigers live mostly alone.
When Did Tigers Appear?
Scientists believe tigers first appeared about 2 million years ago during the Pleistocene era in China.
Tiger Population
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) estimates there are only about 3,700 to 5,500 tigers left in the wild today. Why Is the Tiger Population
Decreasing?
Since the 20th century, tiger numbers have dropped by about 93%. This is mainly because of habitat loss due to human activities like building and pollution, and because people hunt tigers for their fur and body parts.
How Do Tigers Camouflage?
Tigers hunt mostly at night. Their black stripes help them blend into tall grasses, making it easier to sneak up on their prey.
How Dangerous Are Tigers?
Tigers are one of the five most dangerous animals in the world. They are very strong, aggressive, and skilled hunters. Sometimes they avoid humans, but they can be very dangerous if threatened.
Interesting Tiger Facts
1. A big Asian tiger can weigh up to 660 pounds.
2. Tigers use their sight and hearing to hunt and can eat up to 80 pounds of meat at once.
3. Tigers usually hunt alone
every day.
4. Tiger mothers have 2 to 4 cubs every two years.
5. There are 8 tiger species today: Bengal, South China, Indochinese, Sumatran, and Amur tigers survive; Caspian, Bali, and Javan tigers are extinct.
6. Tigers can stretch their legs up to six feet long.
7. Their back legs are longer than their front legs, helping them run and jump.
8. Each tiger has over 100 stripes that help it hide in grass.
9. A group of tigers is called a streak or an ambush.
10. Nearly half of tiger cubs die before their first birthday, often because their parents are killed by humans.
11. A tiger’s roar can be heard from 2 miles away.
12. Tigers kill more people than lions or leopards.
13. In the 19th and 20th centuries, tigers killed over a thousand humans.
14. Tigers can kill with a single bite to the neck or by squeezing their prey’s throat.
15. Their claws can grow up to 4.7 inches long.
16. A tiger’s tail is about three feet long.
17. Tigers live up to 20 years in captivity, but only 10-15 years in the wild.
18. Tigers see six times better than humans in the dark.
19. Tigers love water and can swim 5 to 6 km for fun or to cool off.
20. Their fangs can grow up to 10 cm long.
21. Tigers can imitate other animals’ sounds to trick prey.
Tigers are beautiful, strong, and mysterious animals that need our help to survive. Their homes are disappearing, and their numbers are dropping fast. By learning about tigers and protecting their habitats, we can help make sure these amazing creatures are around for many years to come.
Nature
By Carmen, Year 5
It is very important that we look after nature, trees, plants, and our surroundings because if we continue to pollute the water and cause deforestation, we could seriously damage our earth. To prevent that from happening, we could:
· Participate in events like cleaning oceans and reusing items.
· Sort our rubbish (recycle).
· Finish all our food after eating.
· Do not throw away clothes but donate them to charity.
PLANT IMPORTANCE
Plants help humans in a special process called photosynthesis. They inhale carbon dioxide (which is not healthy air for humans) and exhale oxygen (the air that we breathe). We cut down trees and use them for our housing and tools. Consequently, the number of trees on earth is
decreasing, so we need to replant trees to make up for the damage that we have caused.
PLASTIC
Plastic seriously pollutes the environment, but we can make big changes by using less plastic. Factories that produce plastic release
more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which can be difficult for plants to handle. Carbon dioxide can be one of the causes of global warming as it traps heat from the sun inside our atmosphere.
POLLUTION
Polluting the environment can clearly damage the air we constantly breathe. The main sources of this pollution are factories that produce cars, trucks, and other forms of transportation. The burning of fuel causes air pollution that can damage the air so badly that it becomes difficult to breathe. When chimneys pollute, they primarily release smoke, soot, and gases that result from the incomplete
combustion of wood or other fuels. Water pollution disrupts marine ecosystems, harms wildlife, and can contaminate human food found in the ocean. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, which also affects animals.
Students learn at school about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how to protect the planet. They have organised many events this year to raise awareness and take action, for example during Earth Day. These efforts have contributed to the school receiving the Eco School award, recognising their commitment to environmental sustainability.
By Henri, Year 5
PRIMARY ROCKING YEAR 24/25
New Bands Rock Our Primary School!
This year, our primary school got two awesome new bands! One band is called Tiao Tiao Airlines, and it has Oskar, Tiao Tiao, and Franek in it. The other band is called Rock Band, and its members are Carmen, Josha, Gustav, and Sunny. Both bands are led by Mr Samuel Wigford.
This year, Tiao Tiao Airlines sang two songs at the Christmas concert. They performed Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes and All the Small Things by
Blink-182. But they weren’t the only ones who sang! Rock Band also performed at the concert. They sang Last Christmas by WHAM!
If you want to be in a band, you can’t just start one by yourself. Every year, Mr Wigford holds tryouts to choose who will be in the bands. You can also ask Mr Wigford if you want to join.
Did you know the school also has bands for secondary students? So, there are lots of chances for everyone to join and play music!
By Emma, Year 6
Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year
We are talking about Lunar New Year! Lunar New Year is an important traditional festival celebrated by people in China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and other countries. It usually lasts for fifteen days, starting on the first day of the first lunar month and ending on the fifteenth day.
Why Do We Celebrate It?
There is a famous traditional story that explains why we celebrate Lunar New Year. Long ago, in ancient China, there was a monster called Nian who lived in a cave near a
village. Every year, at the start of the new year, Nian would come down to the village and steal food, animals, and clothes, and destroy houses. The villagers were very upset but didn’t know how to stop Nian.
Eventually, they discovered that Nian was afraid of the color red and loud noises. So, every New Year, villagers put red paper on their windows and doors and set off fireworks and firecrackers. After that, Nian never came back.
Mr. Budzinski, a Year 6 teacher, said, “It was very exciting, and the children loved it. It was very loud—you couldn’t ignore it!”
Zodiac Signs
Each Lunar New Year is linked to a different animal from the Chinese zodiac. There are twelve animals: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Here is the story behind the zodiac: A long time ago, there was no Chinese zodiac. The Jade Emperor wanted to choose twelve animals to be his guards. He sent a message that the animals who arrived first at the Heavenly Gate would get the best ranks. The twelve animals raced, and the rat came first while the pig came last. That’s how the order of the zodiac animals was decided.
Food We Eat
During Lunar New Year, people eat special foods that bring good luck and prosperity:
· Dumplings: They look like gold and symbolize wealth.
Lunar New Year is the most important festival in China, filled with many traditions:
· New Year’s Eve Dinner: The most important meal when families gather.
· Fireworks: Used to scare away evil spirits.
· Shou Sui: Staying awake until midnight to welcome the new year.
· Red envelopes: Parents give children red envelopes with money inside for good luck.
· Cleaning and decorating: Houses are cleaned and decorated with red and gold, lucky colors that bring good fortune.
Lantern Festival
The fifteenth and last day of Lunar New Year is the Lantern
Festival. People decorate their homes with colorful lanterns, often with riddles written on them. The festival includes lion and dragon dances, parades, and fireworks.
The main food eaten during the Lantern Festival is Tangyuan (glutinous rice balls), which can be sweet or savory. Other foods include dumplings, shaved ice, and Chinese flatbread.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lunar New Year is a joyful and traditional time when families come together to celebrate. It honors the story of banishing the monster Nian and shares the hope for a happy and prosperous year ahead.
By Zayed, Year 5
Ramadan
The holy month for Muslims
Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and is known as the “Holy Month” for Muslims.
During Ramadan, Muslims wake up early, around 3:30 AM, to eat a meal called Suhoor. Suhoor is the meal eaten before sunrise to help start the day while fasting.
Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan, which usually lasts between 11 and 15 hours, depending on where they live.
At the end of Ramadan, there is a special celebration called Eid. Eid is a day when Muslims end their fast and celebrate
with family and friends. It is also a time when children often receive money, called Eidi.
There are two main Eids: Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, which this year falls on June 6th.
As a Muslim myself, I enjoy going around the neighborhood giving and receiving Eidi from other houses.
This year, Ramadan will begin on Friday, 28th February.
We hope you enjoyed learning about Ramadan!
Happiness
How Can We Make Students Happier at School?
I think it’s really important to make sure students feel happy at school. Maybe we should ask them if they feel good when they come to school or what things make them happy. Some students might want special meetings to talk about how they feel.
What if we had parties sometimes? Or maybe we could ask if the food in the canteen is okay. It would be good to ask what kind of food students like. Maybe we could have a vote to find out!
We could also ask students to choose where the class goes on trips. That way, everyone gets to go somewhere fun that they like. Voting sounds like a great idea!
If lots of people have ideas, we could write them on small pieces of paper, mix them up, and choose one at random. That would be exciting!
Maybe students would like extra time in the library to relax
By Lola, Year 5
for a few minutes. Or if they find a subject tricky, they might want extra lessons to help them understand better.
On the other hand, if some students are really good at a subject, they might want extra lessons after school to learn even more.
Sometimes, students might have problems with friendships and feel upset. It would be nice if they could have extra talks after school to help them feel calm and happy again.
So, I think the best thing is to actually ask the students what they want. That way, we can make school a happier place for everyone!
Saving Our Endangered Animals
How We Can Help
There are many endangered animals in the world today, like the Vaquita, Amur leopard, Kakapo, and sea turtles. These animals are at risk of disappearing forever because some people still hunt and hurt them, even though they are protected. To stop this, governments and communities are working hard in many ways. For example, they raise awareness by teaching people about endangered species and the dangers they face. They also support laws that protect wildlife and encourage everyone to act responsibly.
We can all help protect endangered animals in different ways. One way is to reduce the use of single-use plastic because it often ends up in the ocean or in nature, harming animals both in water and on land. Another way is by joining beach cleanups to remove rubbish that could hurt sea creatures or even animals living near the coast.
Animals like the Amur leopard live in rainforests and jungles, but these places are being destroyed by deforestation. To help stop
By Emma, Alice, Soeun, Year 6
this, we can check food labels for palm oil. If we use less palm oil, companies will plant fewer palm trees, which means less forest will be cut down, saving animal homes.
Some endangered animals need special attention. The Vaquita, a small marine animal, is the most endangered sea creature with fewer than 10 left in the wild. Their numbers have dropped from 600 in 1997 because they get trapped in fishing nets and cannot escape. The Kakapo, a flightless bird from New Zealand, can live up to 60 years but is critically endangered due to overhunting and genetic problems.
Protecting endangered animals is important for keeping our planet healthy and full of life. By learning about these animals and making small changes in our daily lives, we can all help save them for the future.
By Daho and Hanna, Year 6
Have a pawsome day –International Dog Day
Have you ever wondered what International Dog Day is all about? Well, it’s a day dedicated to celebrating dogs all around the world! This special day is about honoring the amazing roles dogs play in our lives, whether they are our pets, working animals, or service companions.
What is International Dog Day?
International Dog Day is a day to show love and appreciation for dogs everywhere. It reminds
us how important dogs are, not just as cute pets, but also as helpers in many jobs. Dogs can be therapy animals, police dogs, rescue dogs, or service dogs that assist people with disabilities. The day also encourages people to adopt dogs from shelters instead of buying them from pet stores or breeders. This helps give homeless dogs a chance to find a forever home.
Why Do We Celebrate It?
Dogs give us so much— they are loyal friends who provide comfort, support, and unconditional love.
International Dog Day is a chance to thank them for all they do. It also helps us learn about being responsible pet owners, like training our dogs properly and taking good care of them. The day raises awareness about animal cruelty and the importance of treating dogs with kindness and respect. By celebrating this day, we can help make sure every dog has a safe and happy life.
Is It Celebrated Around the World?
International Dog Day is celebrated every year on
August 26. It started in the United States but has become popular in many other countries too. Even if it’s not an official holiday everywhere, dog lovers and animal groups all over the world join in with fun events and activities to celebrate their furry friends.
So, mark your calendars for August 26 and get ready to celebrate the amazing dogs in your life! Whether you have a dog at home or just love them from afar, International Dog Day is a perfect time to show how much we care.
Remember: Adopt, don’t shop! Give a dog a loving home and make a new best friend.
