NEWSLETTER
March 2024
MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
ANOTHER HUMBLE BEGINNING
It is with great enthusiasm, that I would like to announce we are now ready to embark on yet another humble beginning – introducing Acorns Gulu! With eager anticipation, we sow the seeds of new Acorns to witness the metamorphosis of this barren land into the vibrant campus of Acorns. Let us continue to inspire and empower the future of our growing Acorns community! I extend my sincere gratitude to City Mayor Mr. Okwonga Alfred and the esteemed Heads of Gulu City Council Officials for their invaluable support and guidance at the outset of this ambitious project.
REVISION OF VISION, MISSION, CORE VALUES AND LOGO
The journey continues, as the entire school community enthusiastically engages in refining our vision, mission, logo, and uniforms. The collaborative spirit of every member has been incredibly motivating; each contribution not only brings smiles but also enhances our collective thinking. It’s truly inspiring to see the array of perspectives and ideas that are shaping our shared vision for the future. Keep an eye on our progress as we embark on this transformative journey, exploring new horizons and possibilities!
NEW UNIFORMS
We’re excited to share that based on the feedback we received from all of you regarding new uniforms, we’re thrilled to announce that starting from the upcoming academic year, our students will proudly sport new attire! Stay tuned as we unveil the captivating designs and colours soon. Rest assured, this transition will be gradual, and you can switch to the new uniforms over the next academic year. The current uniforms will be acceptable during the transition.
EXCHANGE PROGRAMME
The exchange programme among Acorns Kisassi, Oak, and Acorns Kigali proved to be an incredibly enriching and profoundly impactful experience for all participants. Throughout the programme, we had the privilege of hosting not only students but also esteemed teachers and the Head of School from Acorns Kigali and Oak. These exchanges cultivated deep and meaningful connections, facilitating an exchange of ideas, perspectives, and cultural insights. Each interaction was marked by thoughtful discourse, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation among all involved.
During our joyous celebration of these exchanges, I was deeply moved by the exceptionally thoughtful gift I received. This heartfelt gesture serves as a gentle reminder of the humble beginnings from which I initiated these journeys. It’s truly heartening to witness how each individual has contributed to transforming these initiatives into robust and impactful institutions today. These moments epitomize the essence of a meaningful life, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Acorns Kigali for leaving an indelible mark. Thank you all for making these occasions so exceptionally special!
CELEBRATING WOMEN OF ACORNS
Is it a beautiful coincidence or shared vision or a living legacy, Heads of Acorns School over the past 28 years and currently, the heads of all three Acorns Schools, my esteemed counterparts, have been, and continue to be, inspiring women. All the women contributed in this journey, I am thankful and grateful. To all the incredible women out there, thank you for your contributions, passion, and resilience. Today, and every day, let’s stand together in the pursuit of equality and justice.
PROUD MOMENTS OF ACORNS GOLD AWARDEES WITH HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE EDWARD, THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Recently, 20 Acorns students achieved a remarkable milestone: receiving the prestigious Gold Award from none other than the Duke himself. During a brief conversation, I had the privilege of sharing with him, he expressed genuine appreciation and gratitude for the impactful work being done in Uganda. He conveyed his pride in how we are empowering the younger generation. Furthermore, he took a moment to personally address our students, advising them to carry themselves with even greater pride as they depart today, having earned the distinguished title of Gold awardees.
For over four decades, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has been a central focus of The Duke of Edinburgh’s life and work, ever since he achieved his own Gold Award in 1986. Founded by Prince Philip in 1956, The Award plays a crucial role in helping young people build confidence and develop essential life skills to realize their full potential. Today, with nearly half a million young people actively engaged in their DofE pursuits in the UK alone, and The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award operating in over 130 countries worldwide, its impact is truly global.
MESSAGE FROM THE DEPUTY HEAD OF SCHOOL
As we end our second term of the 2023-2024 academic year, we are eagerly looking forward and planning for the 2024-2025 academic year.
IB Evaluation
Newsletter readers will be familiar with the IB Evaluation Cycle and the steps Acorns has taken to meet the expectations of the upcoming IB Evaluation visit planned for May 2025. At this point in the journey, our Curriculum Coordinators have led the completion of our Self-Evaluation and are looking for more feedback from the wider Acorns community.
We ask families and students to fill out the Acorns School Development Survey linked form.
This should only take a few minutes of your time and will help our teams gauge wider community insights as we move towards implementing our Programme Development Plan.
2024 – 2025 Calendar and Timing Changes
Use the link to download the 2024 – 2025 Academic Year Calendar.
Note that Open Day is on August 14 and the first day of Term 1 is August 15. We ask that all plan to visit us on Open Day to receive student class and teacher allocations and meet your new teachers before starting classes.
As announced in the previous Newsletter, we want to ensure that all families are aware of the timing changes to the EYP and Secondary timings that will begin in August of 2024.
- Early Years (EY) will enjoy an extended school day, from 8:45 am to 2:45 pm.
- Primary hours will remain from 8:00 am to 3:25 pm.
- Secondary students will experience a 45-minute reduction in their school day, from 7:45 am to 3:30 pm.
Rachelle Hale-Molo
Deputy Head of School
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF SPECIALTIES
ISSA League
Four of our teams—the U10 Boys Football Team, the U12 Boys Football Team, and both the U14 Boys and Girls Basketball Teams—reached the finals of the ISSA League this season. The U10 Boys Football Team clinched the championship after a victorious match against Aga Khan at the finals. The U12 Boys Football Team achieved the first runners-up position. Likewise, the U14 Boys and Girls Basketball Teams were named first runners-up, competing against Aga Khan and Vienna College, respectively.
U8 Football Jamboree Tournament
On February 10, 2024, our youngest football team showcased their skills at the ISSA (U8) Jamboree Tournament at Volta Arena. Competing against five schools, they secured fourth place. Our heartfelt thanks go to the parents who massively turned up, supporting and cheering on our budding athletes.
Acorns Swim Team Derby Season 4
The Acorns Swim Team’s Derby on March 2, 2024, was a thrilling display of competition, concluding with Team Divers defending their title with 296 points, closely followed by Team Rapids with 292 points, and Tidal Waves at 268 points. This event also selected representatives for the 10th Inter-Primary National Swimming Championship 2024 at Greenhill Academy Kibuli on March 9, 2024.
USF Primary Swimming Gala
Participating in the 10th USF National Inter-Primary Swimming Gala on March 9, 2024, the Acorns Swim Team secured 12th place among 21 schools, accumulating 300 points. Congratulations to silver medallists Juliette Thompson, Lucky Sanga, Moses Magera, and Kora Reece. Each swimmer was also honoured with a participation certificate, a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Acorns Table Tennis Team Challenge
Our Table Tennis Team’s internal challenge on March 2 offered a stage for students to exhibit their skills across age categories. Noella Baitwa and Stephanie triumphed, earning gold medals in the U8 and U10 categories, respectively. A big thank you to the parents for their enthusiastic support.
Family Language Day Celebration
On February 21, we celebrated International Family Language Day, underlining Acorns’ commitment to multilingualism. This day emphasized the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity, with students engaging in activities that celebrated the multitude of languages within our community.
La Francophone Day
Celebrated on March 20, International Francophonie Day at Acorns was a vibrant celebration highlighting the French language and Francophone culture. Students, teachers, and staff came together for a day filled with engaging activities and festivities. The Secondary Department featured various rotational activities, including passage translation, spelling challenges, and tongue twisters to challenge students’ French pronunciation and fluency. Laughter filled the air as participants embraced the fun and interactive nature of language learning.
Moreover, the cultural aspect of the event was celebrated through showcases of Francophonie attire, captivating dance performances, and melodic French songs. Quizzes covering different aspects of Francophone culture, history, and language stimulated students’ curiosity and encouraged further exploration of the diverse Francophone world.
A significant highlight of the day was the recognition of Secondary students who had undertaken the DELF exam, inspiring others to pursue language proficiency goals. Additionally, students who participated in the school’s Francophonie competitions were honored during an award ceremony. Sonia Kirabo of MYP5 stood out among the 7 winners, earning an invite to the French ambassador’s residence for a prize-giving ceremony.
Overall, La Francophonie Day was a resounding success, fostering cultural appreciation, camaraderie, and linguistic growth within the Acorns community. It served as a testament to the school’s dedication to promoting multilingualism and global citizenship.
Henry Kalanzi
HoD Specialties
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM THE STUDENT COUNCIL PRESIDENT
The current council has undertaken substantial endeavours to bridge the gap between the administration and the student populace. Throughout this academic term, we have convened in regular (monthly) sessions, diligently addressing student concerns and collaboratively devising feasible and effective solutions. Most notably, however, during a recent meeting, the council engaged in dialogue with the entire administrative cohort, inclusive of the Head of School, to discuss the proposed modification of the school’s uniform and insignia. The council’s proactive stance in advocating for student perspectives in the analysis of the given submissions was quite evident, with council members assuming the role of student representation and impartial judgement, guided by predetermined criteria of various natures.
Furthermore, the council has amassed commendation for its collaboration with the school daycare personnel, spearheading an initiative that was aimed at fostering orderliness, organization and discipline among students during the recently concluded ISSA Leagues. Designated council members assumed substantial roles across basketball courts and the football field, ensuring students adhered to discipline and decorum, thereby facilitating the seamless execution of the matches hosted within school premises.
The council remains determined in its commitment to realize the pledges mentioned in each member’s manifesto. This resolve is perfectly manifested in the upcoming term’s agenda, which includes the introduction of a school mascot and the initiation of novel traditions and activities, under the responsibility of council members.
I eagerly anticipate the unfolding of future prospects and I am incredibly optimistic about ending our tenure on a triumphant note.
MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
A heartfelt thank you to the entire Acorns community for your steadfast support, which ensures the smooth daily operations of our school. Each contribution is deeply valued. As we near the end of the second term, we encourage everyone to take a moment to recharge for the upcoming term.
After-school Clubs / After-school Care / Lunches
We offer students from the Early Years Programme (EYP) to the Primary Years Programme (PYP) the chance to engage in extracurricular activities. Enrollment for these activities is on a first-come, first-served basis before the term begins. Sign-up sheets, including after-school care and lunch options, will be distributed to all classes for registration. Please watch for the form on Toddle and forward it to Ms. Rozila at [email protected].
Music
Robotics
Art
Dance
Badminton
Debate
Taekwondo
Skating
Ggymnastic
Our clubs continue to thrive. In February, members of our Gymnastics Club showcased their skills and potential at the National Gymnastics Festival. We’re proud of our ongoing skill development, our exploration of new opportunities, and our achievements. We thank our coaches, parents, and diligent students for their dedication and hard work.
Optical Screening Follow-up
Our recent optical screening was a success and we appreciate all those that took part. Students must be encouraged to care for their eyes while reporting any discomfort as early as possible. As per the doctors’ recommendations, parents of children who wear glasses must encourage them to use their glasses.
Evacuation Drill
We recently conducted an evacuation drill and noticed improvements in our practices. As we strive for even better results, we are exploring more effective ways of ensuring everyone’s safety in case of emergencies and whenever the need arises.
Lost and Found
We request your help with lost items. We encourage parents to discuss the importance of responsibility and care for personal belongings with their children, mirroring our school’s approach. Labelling personal items can significantly help in their recovery if lost.
Uniform labelling services are available to help identify misplaced items. Please contact any reception for assistance in labeling your child’s uniforms or email [email protected].
Rosyelene Ampumuza
HoD Administration
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM THE ADMISSIONS DEPARTMENT
It gives me so much joy to watch our little Acorns Family grow and flourish!
A heartfelt thank you for your swift support in completing the new digitized version of our Admissions Form. For those who haven’t filled it out yet, we kindly urge you to do so during the Term break. Please remember that this form is essential for every student, both new and returning, enrolled at Acorns. Please refer to the email dated March 4, 2024, for the link to the form on Toddle.
Wishing you a peaceful and rejuvenating Term break, and looking forward to seeing you all on Wednesday, April 3.
Nishitha Shrivastava
HoD Admissions & Advancement
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM THE HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT
As we near the end of this term, I’m filled with immense gratitude for the dedication and resilience displayed by our Acorns International School community. Despite challenges, our faculty’s unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds has been exemplary. From innovative teaching methods to fostering a supportive environment, every member has played a crucial role in our collective success. As we reflect on the term’s achievements, let’s also celebrate the spirit of collaboration and growth that defines us. Together, we’ve weathered storms and emerged stronger. Here’s to a well-deserved break and returning refreshed for the next chapter of our journey.
Lynn Bugaari Muhangi
HoD Human Resource
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Email: [email protected]
NOTE FROM THE FINANCE DEPARTMENT
Fees
- Term III fees are due by April 11, 2024. If you have any queries, kindly contact the Finance Department at +256 754 202 667 or email [email protected].
- Delayed fee payments incur a 5% surcharge. If you have not opted for School Lunch, kindly ignore that component in your invoice.
- AIS offers a 15% reduction on one term’s fee following the introduction of a newly enrolled student.
- For fee payments made in the bank, we request you to email the receipt to [email protected].
Transport Facility
- We now have 3 new spacious 40 seater school buses. For any inquiries related to the school transport facilities kindly contact the Finance Department at +256 754 202 667 or email [email protected].
After-School Care
- After-school care is also payable at a casual rate of $5 per 30 minutes.
- Regular After-School Care hours end at 5:30 pm. Students picked after this time will be charged at the rate of $5 per 15min.
Bank Requirement
- As per the bank requirements, please note that school fee denominations will not be accepted if they have any type of mark or scribbling on them.
- As per the bank requirements, please note that US dollar series 2013 and above will be accepted anything below it will not be accepted.
Binal Patel
HoD Finance
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM THE HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS
EARLY YEARS
As we reach the end of Term 2, we’re delighted to share the highlights of our Early Years Programme adventures! This term has been filled with vibrant art discoveries and captivating storytelling, providing a rich environment for learning. As we approach this break, we urge you to cherish moments of exploration, play, and creativity with your little ones. Take this opportunity to engage in activities that ignite their curiosity and imagination. May this break offer you all a chance to rejuvenate and spend quality time together. We eagerly anticipate your return, ready to embark on more exciting learning experiences together!
Andi Haskins
Head of Early Years
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Email: [email protected]
PRIMARY
Approaching Term 2’s end, I’m thrilled by our community’s journey. Months brimmed with growth, achievement, and resilience, embodying our spirit. Students excelled academically, embracing challenges and completing MAP assessments and successful three-way conferences. Their progress is commendable!
Looking forward to Term 3, we aim to build on this success with events like the PYP6 exhibition and graduation, pursuing continued learning and discovery. May your break be restful and enjoyable, anticipating another exciting term at Acorns International School.
Shallon Baguma
Head of Primary
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Email: [email protected]
SECONDARY
Greetings, Acorns Family! As we conclude this term, let’s reflect on our students’ enriching learning experiences, shaping skills, citizenship, and impact on Acorns’ Vision. I celebrate our students’ achievements, including Duke of Edinburgh Gold awardees.
Thank you, parents, for support. Starting Term 3, please use the Toddle platform and official email. Prioritize mindfulness during holidays.
Thank you, teachers, for your dedication. Enjoy a rejuvenating break, fostering a love for reading and responsible tech use. Wishing you a joyful term-end break!
Shirin Bagchi
Head of Secondary
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Email: [email protected]