Highlights from the 'Murder Mystery' at SES. It was a successful day, full of fun and games. Students in every year group showcased amazing teamwork, leadership and problem solving skills. Well done everyone.
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This week the Primary School held its annual 'Spelling Bee' competition. Mr Hyland is thanked for organising a very challenging and exciting event. The spelling capabilities of our pupils proved extremely impressive, well done to all our finalists!
Congratulations to the following pupils for achieving Spelling Bee Champion of their Year Band.
Year 1 (Ali), Year 2 (Mariyah), Year 3 (Rivan)
Year 4 (Rayyan), Year 5 (Idris) and the Year 6 (Anaadya)
Alvi, our new Head Boy, and members of the Primary Student Council, loading our Ramadan Care Packages for delivery.
This year we collected 275 packages!
These will be distributed to labourers in Sharjah and the Northern Emirates next week.
A huge thank you to our incredibly generous school community for their donations and support.
A big thank you to all the pupils and staff for their efforts in our recent Quran competition held in the Primary school. The photograph includes the winners from all yearbands from Year 1 to Year 6.
Don't forget to pick up your tickets for our annual PSG Iftar event on May 30th, 2019 from the Primary and Secondary Reception or send the money in a labelled envelope and we will return the tickets.
Earth Day 2019, Emirates Environmental Group Public Speaking Competition,
Presenting a speech on Healthcare & Sustainability.
A team of fours students from Sharjah English School did a great job in this years competition. Their speech was very well researched and delivered. It was certainly among the best of the day. They finished fourth of about 40 schools who entered in total. Well done to the year 10 students.
Congratulations to four of our A Level Maths students who represented Sharjah English School in the 7th National Maths Competition at Abu Dhabi University.
There were fifty teams consisting of one hundred students from schools all across the Emirates and we are pleased to say that both of our teams made it through to the finals. We are extremely proud of their achievement.
Sharjah English School hosted a Space & Rocketry Programme during the Spring Break. Students from Years 5 to 10 took part, including some from other schools. Over three days, the participants learnt about living & working in space, rockets, the International Space Station, space exploration and Mars missions. They tried astronaut food, completed a number of space themed engineering challenges and built their own rocket which they launched in the desert this weekend.
Everyone worked hard and it was great to have students from primary and secondary working together. Well done to everyone that took part and I hope it has sown the seed of interest and motivation to work hard and consider a career in Space Science.
Dubai Cares Donation
Members of the Student Council visited Dubai Cares last week to deliver our donation of 10,000 dhs, raised by the Walk for Education last term.
We are very grateful for the efforts of the students, their parents and the whole school community in helping us to raise such a terrific sum.
The Student Council will now vote on which Dubai Cares initiative that their money will support.
T shirts designed to celebrate key numbers from the Special Olympics 2019.
The Spring Term is never complete without the Junior School Disco. This year DJ Gill spun up a tropical storm, we rocked the boat and danced and limboed the evening away, great fun was had by all!
The 2nd of of our new look concert series took place on Tuesday 26th March, with the inaugural Spring Concert.
Over 80% of the performers were new to the SES stage, and the whole evening was full of enthusiasm and positivity, and some amazing performances. Year 11 students were given their last to chance to perform before recording their GSCE coursework, and the music department were pleased to welcome a few performers from the last "Won't Stop Beating" concert, held in school at the start of the month. Favorites such as SES Barbershop, Concert Band and Vocal Ensemble wowed the audience, and all performers are looking forward to the next opportunity to showcase the extensive musical talents of SES.
Thanks as always go to our dedicated peripatetic staff, parents and performers, along with Ms Alvarez and Mr Laird.
On Tuesday 19th March 9 SES students attended the DASSA Athletics championships, they had qualified in the top 8 athletes in their respected events after competing in the Team Championships two weeks ago. It was a fantastic display of some elite athletics and we are proud to report 7 medals were won by SES Students.
Bronze Medal for Ryan Brown in the U14 Discus
Silver Medal for Jeena Lumumba in the U14 Discus
Gold Medals for Imani Moneyang in the U12 Shot Put,U12 Javelin and U12 200m
Gold Medals for Kenya Moneyang in the U14 100m and U14m 200m
In the Team Championships SES competed in Division 1 - with the largest schools in Dubai and as a team earnt a respectable 5th place overall - well done Team SES.
As the Special Olympics in Abu Dhabi comes to a close on Thursday, SES salutes all the participants and people of determination who have made this such an inspiring and memorable event.
As a school we have been proud to have participated in many ways in creating great memories for those involved: from ex-SES student Chaica Al Qasimi delivering a speech at the opening, to Ms Hyland training and supporting competitive Cheer-leading in its first appearance at the Special Olympics, and to Anneketrien who led the massed student choir at the Opening Ceremony.
Well done SES. And mabrook to all the organizers and supporters.
SES student Anneketrien Van Wassenhove raises the curtain on the opening ceremony of the Special Olympic Games in Abu Dhabi last Thursday. Performing in front of 40,000 people, 7,500 athletes from 190 countries and a world-wide TV audience, Anneketrien led the choir in singing the specially composed anthem "Woven World".
"The school is really proud of Anneketrien's achievements in music. This is a remarkable distinction for such a young singer", said John Nolan, SES school principal. "The school is also delighted to be able to support this fabulous event and all the athletes of determination who are participating."
Congratulations to Megan White on passing her Young Leader Qualification for British Girl Guides Overseas.
A number of SES girls are active members of the Sharjah Guides, and put in many hours of service assisting in running of the troop. For Megan to receive this accolade is a great achievement, and sets her up to proceed to her full leadership qualification.
Sharjah Guides and SES are very proud of her.
The photograph shows the Chief Commissioner for BGO, Diane Thomas, presenting Megan with her badge and certificate last week, when Diane visited Sharjah as part of a Middle East visit.
On Thursday, Students from SES competed in "Choirfest Me" an international choir competition for school across the country. Led by Ms Lis, the choir performed 3 songs and were adjudicated by professional choir directors. Competing against DESC, Dubai College and Winchester School, students were treated to some exceptional choir performances. We are very pleased to say that our vocal ensemble came out winners of the "choir of the day", something which recognizes the dedication and talent of both our students and staff. A huge congratulations to all involved, especially Ms Lis and the participants for once again showing the quality of the music opportunities at SES.
Year 11 students enjoyed a creative writing workshop with published author, Rehan Khan. Mr Khan's latest novel 'A Tudor Turk' is described as Mission Impossible but set in the 16th century. Students were given the opportunity to dissect what makes a good story and given tools which will surely help them in their upcoming examinations. The English department would like to thank both Rehan and the Emirates Literature Festival for allowing us such a fantastic opportunity.
Congratulations to three SES students made the finals of the Kellogg's Spelling Bee at Motiongate, Dubai. Nishant Sood (y9), Rhea Sequeira (y10) (returning contestants) and Anna George (y8), a newcomer to the competition. Nishant went on to make joint 6th overall and was the highest ranked Sharjah student. The registration for next year's competition will open in term 3 with Miss Somers (for years 6-10) and next year, we hope to launch a new competition with the spelling bee organisation for years 1-5!
During the Year 7 design and Technology students at SES worked on an innovative moisture sensor project. The students were put into groups of four and began the day with a research project on the importance of water around the world. They then put their research into action and learnt about development of water management systems and electronic circuits.
For the first time ever, SES celebrated International Mother Language Day and its translation into more than 19 languages on Thursday February 21st.
The event, built around the concept of flight and travel, was marked in Key Stage 3 with over 30 students introducing their peers to their culture and language, encouraging other students to discover greetings and a little of someone else's mother tongue. As a celebration of our diversity and inclusiveness, it was a fabulous success.
The event concluded with some multilingual musical performances from Nina, Suranya and Anneketrien.
The International Picnic organised by the PGS fell on the same day, which, made for a prefect finish to this fun programme - thanks to Ms Benani and the Modern Foreign Languages students for their organisation and enthusiasm.
At SES we value the importance of social responsibility. We are delighted to share that our whole school community raised over 5000 aed for Dubai Cares in our recent 'Walk for Education'.
The event allowed us to stand together as one school to highlight children across the world who do not have access to education. The student leaders would like to pass on their thanks to all who contributed.
SES will be undergoing an accreditation visit / inspection by BSO in three weeks time. The inspection team, from the UK and international schools, will be assessing our school against the standards applied to independent schools in the UK. This updates our accreditation previously obtained in 2013 and 2016.
Head of Secondary Tracy Morley with conference presenter Pauline Taylor-Guy, at a session on Continuous School Improvement. All members of the Senior Management Team last week attended the Sharjah Private Education Authority organised event. SPEA is working closely with outstanding Sharjah schools in order to lead and foster real educational progress within the emirate.
Under 16 Netball Team played against Emirates International School Jumeirah on Sunday. The team played really well and saw rewards of their hard work in training. Final score was 29-3 with Lara Parsons as player of the match.
Thursday February 21st
This year, Sharjah English School will celebrate International Mother Language Day and its translation into more than 19 languages. SES recognises that linguistic diversity and multilingualism are a vital contribution to global citizenship as they promote intercultural connections and tolerance.
The event will be marked in Key Stage 3 by language experts' classes, poetry reading and singing.
We would very much like parents to join us and chat with our students to introduce themselves and talk about their culture and encourage the use of all our mother languages at SES.
Feel free to contact me at: cbenani@sharjahenglishschool.org if you would like to participate in this event.
Thank you,
Chantal Benani (Head of French)
ex-SES Student Meets Pope
Chaica Al Qasimi, a graduate of Sharjah English School, met with Pope Francis in Abu Dhabi today.
Chaica has become a distinguished medal-winner at international karate competitions, and will represent the UAE as torch-bearer at the World Games, scheduled for Abu Dhabi in March.
Having graduated from SES with GCSEs, Chaica is a leading advocate for people of determination in the country and abroad.
"We congratulate her on her achievements," said Mr. Nolan, "which have led to Chaica being selected to meet the pope on this historic occasion; a day marking tolerance and amity between people of different cultures and faiths. Her participation and the event itself represent so many of the ideas and values which the school tries to promote."
A record 22 SES students attended the annual YMOG competition in Bahrain. Congratulations to Patrick O'Connell who finished first in the composition category, and Anneketrien VanWassenhove who made the Gala Final and won Best Female Vocalist.
The school's extraordinary record in this competition, a fiercely competitive and prestigious international event, is enhanced by Anneketrien and Patrick's achievements; both are repeat winners, having been top male and female vocalist last year.
School is grateful as always to Mrs Maria Lis, our vocal coach and accompanist, and to Mr Laird and Miss Alvarez for their support in Bahrain.
To celebrate the diversity of our SES family the Primary school celebrated the Chinese New Year last week. Our F2 pupils who had recently chosen to investigate China led us through the story of the Zodiac and a wonderful dragon Dance. Our pupils who celebrate the Chinese New Year led us in song with the traditional New Years song of 'Gong Xi, Gong Xi' Thanks to Miss Harrison and Mrs Morley for their work in preparing the children.
Secondary students are working hard to ensure they are ready for the school show West Side Story. Show your support on the 12th or 13th of February, tickets are 25AED and available from the Secondary reception.
Our Year 6 pupils explored the Heart of Sharjah on a recent school excursion. The pupils had the opportunity to investigate the passage of time by visiting key heritage sites within the city as well as a modern art installation. If you get the chance do ask our Y6 pupils about their experience..
Cross Country Achievement: Last week the Primary pupils competed in the Primary Cross Country event at Rashid School in Dubai.
The pupils ran a magnificent race and overall we had winners and celebrations in the following categories.
Y3 & 4 Girls - 1st place
Y5 & 4 Girls - 1st place
Y3 & 4 Boys - 2nd place
Well Done Primary PE!
Perseverance was the theme of the Primary assemblies this week. Our PE team discussed the importance of being persistent in all aspects of our lives! We are delighted to share with you the winners of the Perseverance awards from F1 to Y6. These awards were given to pupils who continuously try their best!
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December's Board of Governors' meeting saw the departure of Fiona Nicholas. Fiona has spent a remarkable 26 years as a selfless and dedicated SES governor.
She was for many years our Honorary Treasurer, and can be credited with guiding the school through a number of financial tempests, including securing and overseeing the finances for the move to our current site, and the several phases of building which have occurred since. Her advice to SES principals and bursars over the years has been astute and patient; her impact on the school has been immense, though often under-acknowledged.
I am sure that the whole SES community will join me in wishing Fiona all the best as she returns to the UK shortly.
Fiona is pictured below being thanked by Board Chairman Mr. Khalid Al Amiri.
Suranya Siriwardana of Year 10 has recently won a gold medal in the Dubai Dance Olympics. Suranya won the Kathak Senior title, and was also a silver medal winner in the group competition.
She will next be competing in an international competition in Bangalore in January.
Congratulations to Suranya – the school is full of admiration for your dedication and the years of preparation which have gone into achieving success at this level.
We would like to extend our gratitude to Mr Flavin and the many parents who came and shared some amazing experiences of their work with the pupils as part of our Enterprise Week. The following is a selection of the activities completed which allowed our pupils be be independent, creative, self reliant and confident.
Many thanks to the Parent Support Group for all their Indefatigable work and planning for the Winter Fayre 2018. It was a wonderful community event, thank you so much for coming along and supporting this event.
The money raised makes a big difference to the facilities and non-curriculum life of SES, to everyone's benefit.
Our gratitude to you all and thank you!
Year 9 Girls were invited to take part in a session led by students from Sharjah Womens College, on the importance of physical exercise and healthy eating in raising awareness of how to prevent the onset of Diabetes.
The students participated in two exercise sessions led by the Sharjah Womens College students, the first was a High Intensity Workout, followed by a zumba class.
Afterwards, some students had the opportunity to 'earn their smoothie' by peddling as fast as they could on a bicycle which powered a smoothie maker.
Mrs Stuart, Deputy Head Primary congratulating Kareem Moufti in Year 5. Kareem recently took part in the Kenken International Championship where he placed 2nd in Sharjah and 8th overall in the UAE. Well done Kareem, a great achievement!
Michael Flachbart of NASA / Compass Education visited the school yesterday to 'launch' our planned Space Camp scheduled for Spring Break.
As well as tying in with many of our STEM goals, the timing of the camp should coincide with the first UAE astronaut going into space.
Details and sign-up to follow in a few days.
Yesterday as part of Anti Bullying and Tolerance week we wore odd socks to highlight to our primary pupils that being different is perfectly OK! In addition we explored the...
• The definition of respect
• That bullying is a behaviour choice
• That we can respectfully disagree with each other i.e. we don't have to be best friends or always agree with each other but we do have to respect each other
• That we all need to choose to respect each other, both face to face and online
Diwali is a special celebration and festival for many of our families. Miss Burman helped the primary pupils to understand a little more about this festival of light, in our assembly last Thursday. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the start of tolerance week!
