NEWSLETTER
October 2023
INDEX
MESSAGE FROM DEPUTY HEAD OF SCHOOL
Greetings, AIS Community,
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your enthusiastic participation in our recent events, including the Assemblies, University Fair, and Global Village gatherings during the first half of Term 1. Your active involvement enriches our school community and contributes immensely to our students’ growth.
I also extend my thanks for your ongoing cooperation and understanding as we continually strive to enhance our practices to create the best possible learning environment for our students. Your patience during the implementation of our enhanced security measures, particularly the introduction of “Exit IDs” at the entrance gate, is greatly appreciated. I am pleased to note that the initial traffic delays due to introducing this change, have subsided and the entrance process is now running smoothly. I kindly urge everyone to maintain a respectful attitude towards our guards and gatekeepers, who diligently perform their duties to ensure our school’s safety.
I would like to remind those parents, guardians, and drivers who have not yet obtained their “Exit ID” to kindly reach out to us by emailing [email protected]. Your cooperation in this matter is crucial to maintaining the security standards of our school.
In our transition to Toddle, I am delighted to hear the positive feedback from families and students about the platform’s user-friendly interface and diverse functionalities. As a reminder, the following are all assessable through the Family App (purple icon):
- All important announcements from teachers and AIS Administrators are now exclusively communicated through Toddle.
- Family Messaging on Toddle provides a direct and private channel to communicate with your teachers and administrators.
- The attendance feature allows families to track student attendance, and we encourage you to use this feature to submit reasons for absences when necessary.
I am pleased to share that 100% of our students are now on Toddle, and 94% of students have family members actively using the Family App. If you are among the 6% not yet signed up, I urge you to do so promptly. By not being part of Toddle, you are missing vital communications regarding your child’s education, and with the implementation of new features in the future, this gap will widen. If you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to approach your department HOD, who will be more than happy to assist you.
Once again, thank you for your continued support and cooperation. Together, we are creating a nurturing and enriching educational experience for our students. Wishing you and your families a wonderful midterm break and a successful remainder of Term 1.
Rachelle Hale-Molo
Deputy Head of School
______________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF SCHOOL
Have you ever reflected?
Currently, around 34 countries are mired in conflicts, forcing over 117 million people into displacement or statelessness in 2023.
Climate disasters are escalating to extreme levels, undergoing irrevocable changes, causing frequent heatwaves, famines, infectious diseases, and millions of lives lost each year.
Over 2.3 billion people, more than a quarter of the global population, will participate in elections that will define the second half of the decade and shape the future of democracy on a worldwide scale.
The question remains: Are we merely spectators to these challenges, or can we collectively take meaningful action to address them?
As an international educational institution, we aspire to empower the AIS community to become informed global citizens who actively engage in finding solutions, driving positive change, and shaping a peaceful world.
On that note, this term has proven to be an exciting blend of action, strategic planning, and decision-making. It is with great enthusiasm that I share the following exciting developments:
Board of Governors Induction
I am thrilled to introduce the esteemed members of our Board of Governors, a vital part of our AIS Family. The Board plays a pivotal role in guiding the strategic direction of our international school, ensuring that we continue to provide a world-class education to our students. Our Board of Governors is composed of a diverse group of individuals who bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and dedication to their roles. They are deeply committed to upholding our school’s Mission, Core Values, and Vision, and their collective efforts significantly influence the school’s success. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to our Board of Governors, and we look forward to the positive impact they will have on our school’s future.
AIS Vision, Mission and Core Values Revision
We initiated a revision of AIS Vision, Mission and Core Values with all staff. What an incredibly thoughtful and collaborative journey it has been! Throughout this process, collective thoughts, voices, and opinions of all have not only been deeply reflective but, more significantly, they have ignited a sense of inspiration and unity among us as we pursue our shared objectives. This journey will now continue with the parent and student community before we can have a final product that will reflect not only where we have been but, more importantly, where we are headed.
New Secondary Block
In the final stages of construction, the Secondary Block is rapidly coming together. Recently, we had the honour of providing an exclusive tour of this new facility to our esteemed PTO Chairperson, our dedicated team members, and our enthusiastic secondary teachers. Simultaneously, we’ve initiated the arrangement of furniture, with the goal of its completion scheduled for the upcoming end of term. Furthermore, we are actively in the planning phase for informative tours that will be offered to our parents once they return from the break. These tours will afford them the chance to experience our new campus firsthand.
Congratulating PTO and Student Council
Finally, I extend my warmest congratulations to our new PTO Chairperson Annie Pink, Student Council President Jemimah Barigye, and their respective teams. Their deep dedication to our school’s Mission and their steadfast commitment to enriching the educational journey fill us with excitement as we anticipate collaborating with them. Together, we aim to fortify the sense of unity within our school, under their capable leadership, among both our parent and student communities.
MESSAGE FROM DEPUTY HEAD OF SCHOOL
Greetings, AIS Community,
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your enthusiastic participation in our recent events, including the Assemblies, University Fair, and Global Village gatherings during the first half of Term 1. Your active involvement enriches our school community and contributes immensely to our students’ growth.
I also extend my thanks for your ongoing cooperation and understanding as we continually strive to enhance our practices to create the best possible learning environment for our students. Your patience during the implementation of our enhanced security measures, particularly the introduction of “Exit IDs” at the entrance gate, is greatly appreciated. I am pleased to note that the initial traffic delays due to introducing this change, have subsided and the entrance process is now running smoothly. I kindly urge everyone to maintain a respectful attitude towards our guards and gatekeepers, who diligently perform their duties to ensure our school’s safety.
I would like to remind those parents, guardians, and drivers who have not yet obtained their “Exit ID” to kindly reach out to us by emailing [email protected]. Your cooperation in this matter is crucial to maintaining the security standards of our school.
In our transition to Toddle, I am delighted to hear the positive feedback from families and students about the platform’s user-friendly interface and diverse functionalities. As a reminder, the following are all assessable through the Family App (purple icon):
- All important announcements from teachers and AIS Administrators are now exclusively communicated through Toddle.
- Family Messaging on Toddle provides a direct and private channel to communicate with your teachers and administrators.
- The attendance feature allows families to track student attendance, and we encourage you to use this feature to submit reasons for absences when necessary.
I am pleased to share that 100% of our students are now on Toddle, and 94% of students have family members actively using the Family App. If you are among the 6% not yet signed up, I urge you to do so promptly. By not being part of Toddle, you are missing vital communications regarding your child’s education, and with the implementation of new features in the future, this gap will widen. If you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to approach your department HOD, who will be more than happy to assist you.
Once again, thank you for your continued support and cooperation. Together, we are creating a nurturing and enriching educational experience for our students. Wishing you and your families a wonderful midterm break and a successful remainder of Term 1.
Rachelle Hale-Molo
Deputy Head of School
______________________
Email: [email protected]
PARENTS TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO) 2023-24
Dear AIS Community,
The Parents Teacher’s Organization is thrilled to connect with you through this newsletter, and we extend our warmest greetings to each and every one of you. We are delighted to introduce the newly elected PTO Executive Team for the 2023-2024 academic year. This dedicated team is committed to enhancing the school experience for parents, students, and teachers. Allow us to introduce the members of the PTO Executive Team:
Chairperson
Ms. Annie Pink
Vice Chairperson
Ms. Lakshmi Kiran Kommareddy
Treasurer
Ms. Andi Haskins
Secretary
Ms. Hilda Barry
Vice Secretary
Ms. Teena Rupani
In addition to our Executive Team, we are pleased to introduce the dedicated members of the PTO committee, who are equally enthusiastic about our mission:
- Ms. Reshma Virani
- Ms. Musiitwa Jessy
- Ms. Shallon Baguma
- Ms. Swetha Hirani
- Ms. Carolyn Naola
- Ms. Robinah Akello
- Ms. Awien Akol
- Mr. Neal Kelley
- Ms. Irene Tayebwa
- Ms. Yvette Rwigema
- Mr. Emmanuel Onuoha
Our mission is to build strong connections among parents, students, and teachers. The PTO is fully committed to supporting the school in all its endeavours and fostering a sense of community within our school. We are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to meet and engage with all parents at our upcoming events.
We are thrilled with the initiatives we were able to successfully carry out during the first half of this term. We want to extend our deepest gratitude for the tremendous support you showed for the PTO Home Clothes Day Fundraiser in October. Additionally, we were delighted to demonstrate our appreciation during Staff Appreciation Week by providing every member of the AIS staff with a thoughtful gift—an umbrella each.
For any suggestions or queries, please feel free to reach out to the PTO Chairperson at [email protected]. We value your input and are here to serve the best interests of our school community.
Annie Pink
PTO Chairperson
______________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM THE STUDENT COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Hello! I’m Jemimah Barigye, the newly elected Student Council President for the 2023-24 term. On behalf of the entire Student Council, I want to express our immense enthusiasm as we begin our various responsibilities and upcoming projects. Our dedication and motivation, even at this early stage in our term, burn as brightly as an eternal flame, as we remain steadfast in our commitment to fulfilling the promises we made during our campaigns. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with our supporters, the school administration, and the student body to cultivate a nurturing environment that fosters inspiration among ourselves and those in our community.
Jemimah Barigye
Student Council President
______________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF EARLY YEARS DEPARTMENT
The first half of the term has swiftly passed by, filled with excitement and abundant learning opportunities. Our youngest students are on a rapid journey of growth, continuously achieving new developmental milestones and eagerly progressing to the next ones. While development may seem gradual at times, reflecting on the goals accomplished and skills honed by our learners in the initial two months of the year reveals substantial strides in their growth. We take immense pride in witnessing our students gain independence in their school routines, form new friendships, and consistently astound us with their expanding capabilities. The potential of our little learners knows no bounds, and we eagerly anticipate witnessing the heights they will reach!
Here’s what you miss when you don’t check Toddle Family App (purple icon):
- Calendar of school events
- Weekly updates from your child’s teacher
- Portfolio posts featuring your child’s work with accompanying photos
- Important announcements and reminders
- Excusal requests for informing teachers of your child’s absence.
Andi Haskins
HoD Early Years Programme
__________________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF PRIMARY DEPARTMENT
I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the AIS community for their tremendous support at Global Village and throughout the academic year’s events. This is the perfect moment to express our deep appreciation for your unwavering dedication to our school. I also applaud your commitment to utilizing the Toddle platform and actively engaging in your child’s education. Additionally, I’d like to express my gratitude to our dedicated teachers who consistently work tirelessly to provide our students with the best possible education.
Shallon Baguma
HoD Primary Department
______________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF SECONDARY DEPARTMENT
Academic Progress
I am pleased to share our students’ enthusiasm for learning new concepts and participating in academic activities. Please visit the Toddle account of your child to get insights into their subject performances. Most of the subjects have completed the first unit and will soon complete their summative tasks. If your child has missed any assessment tasks, please note the IBMYP looks at continuous assessment cycles and cumulative grades. In Secondary, we do not have an option for doing the assessments at a later date, hence, we encourage you to maintain engagement with your child’s education by regularly checking in with them about their schoolwork and attending parent-teacher check-in meetings, which will be scheduled in the coming weeks.
Sharing our governing policies and protocols for daily operations and activities is essential.
Absenteeism and Advancement Criteria
Familiarize yourself with the AIS Student Attendance and Retention Policy, vital for IB External Examinations registration and grade progression, hinging on:
- Attendance (90% in Homeroom Time and lessons)
- Task completion (minimum 80%)
- Performance (grades of 3 and above across all subjects).
Shirin Bagchi
HoD Secondary Department
_______________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF SPECIALTIES
Talent Hunt Update
Acorns International School is thrilled to announce the upcoming sixth edition of the Inter-School Talent Hunt, scheduled for November 4, 2023. We are excited to have the following esteemed schools participating in this event: Harvest International, Oak International, Caltec Academy, Vine International, and North Green School.
Following rigorous auditions held on October 30, 2023, we are delighted to introduce the talented students who will proudly represent Acorns International School in the finals of this competition:
Additionally, the following students have been selected to perform during interludes: Aashi Siddanmane, Neorah Angelica Pink, Nourhan El Hadri, Jyodhi Karunya, and Trinity Ann Kamikazi Mwebaze.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all students who participated in the auditions. We warmly invite the entire AIS community to join us and witness the exceptional talents on display at this year’s Talent Hunt event on November 4, 2023.
Student Council Investiture
At AIS, our unwavering commitment is to nurture students’ potential across all aspects of learning. In line with our profound vision of inspiring and empowering every student, the AIS Student Council serves as a catalyst, instilling crucial leadership, self-management, and organizational skills.
This year, the Student Council elections embraced a purely democratic process, involving stages such as application, nomination, campaigning, and voting in both the PYP and Secondary Departments. Meanwhile, in the EYP Department, student leaders were nominated and chosen by their teachers. For a glimpse of the Investiture highlights, please watch the attached video:
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the students who wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to run for various positions. Your journey has imparted valuable lessons in hard work, effective public speaking, and mobilization. We applaud each of you for your efforts.
SCHOOL TEAMS UPDATE
Greetings! Since the commencement of the term, our school teams, including Basketball, Swimming, Football, Volleyball, Badminton, and Table Tennis, have been diligently honing their skills through rigorous practice sessions. Both our coaching staff and students have exhibited commendable dedication and effort.
I am delighted to share that our U16 Girls’ football team has successfully secured a spot in the final of the ISSA (International Schools Sports Association) League.
Furthermore, our U8 Jamboree Basketball team achieved an impressive First Runners-up position in the recently concluded ISSA U8 Basketball tournament on September 30, 2023.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the parents who have collaborated with the school to make this remarkable trip possible. Your support is invaluable and greatly appreciated.
Henry Kalanzi
HoD Specialties
_______________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM THE ADMISSIONS DEPARTMENT
It makes me so happy to see our AIS Family grow! The diversity, the talent pool, and the skills everyone brings to the community are unimaginable. Your unwavering support and trust in our educational mission are truly heartwarming.
On that note, I am delighted to share that we uphold our commitment to not compromise on our dedication to accommodate growth. To cater to the increasing demand, we are excited to announce the commencement of our fourth stream of EYP2, aptly named “Kingfishers.” This expansion ensures that more young minds can benefit from the exceptional education we offer at AIS.
As growth ensues, responsibility increases. Regrettably, our PYP2 class has reached its full capacity, necessitating us to initiate a waiting list for new enrollees. Likewise, enrollments for AS, A Levels, and DP2 for this year are no longer available. However, a limited number of openings remain in DP1, should you or a friend be interested.
Thank you for being an integral part of our thriving community, and we look forward to continued growth and excellence at AIS.
Nishitha Shrivastava
HoD Admissions & Advancement
____________________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF HUMAN RESOURCE
I am delighted to look back on the recently concluded Staff Appreciation Week, where we celebrated the theme of “Cultivating Gratitude.” It was a week filled with heartfelt appreciation and we’re grateful for your enthusiastic participation.
First and foremost, we want to extend a special thanks to our incredible staff. Your dedication and passion are the driving force behind our success. Throughout the week, you embraced daily gratitude activities, from sharing kind messages with each other to appreciating our expressions of thanks. The Gratitude Board overflowed with heartwarming messages, creating a positive atmosphere that resonated throughout the school. Your commitment to our students and our school’s mission is truly inspiring.
We also want to express our gratitude to our supportive parents. Your involvement in Staff Appreciation Week made it even more special. Your encouragement and support for our staff are invaluable, and we appreciate your active participation in this celebration.
We ended the week with our “Gratitude Gala” where staff voted for each other to receive awards in a number of categories and we later danced the night away. May this aura of gratitude and appreciation carry us through to the end of the school year
Lynn Bugaari Muhangi
HoD Human Resource
_______________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM CURRICULUM COORDINATORS
PYP Coordinator
MAP Assessments
From August 28 to September 15, PYP1-6 successfully completed their MAP assessments. These computer-based adaptive tests occur once each term, offering vital insights. The first-term results establish a baseline for the student’s progress at the start of the year, guiding our teaching methods and enhancing learning experiences.
Family Language Classes
Our students continue to thrive in their Family Language classes, and it’s truly rewarding to observe their communication and active engagement within their respective Family Languages. We acknowledge that we may not currently offer instruction in all the Family Languages represented in our school due to resource limitations. However, we warmly welcome volunteers interested in teaching their Family Language.
If you are interested in contributing, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and we will gladly make the necessary arrangements. The only requirement is that a class must have a minimum of six students to ensure its viability. Your participation in this endeavour would be greatly valued and appreciated.
Jamal Makki
PYP Curriculum Coordinator
__________________________
Email: [email protected]
MYP Coordinator
MYP 1-4 MAP Assessments
MYP 1-4 MAP Assessments occur twice a year, evaluating students’ proficiency in reading, language usage, mathematics, and science. Administered electronically, these standardised tests gauge progress in distinct skill domains within these subjects. The latest round of MYP 1-4 MAP tests took place on Tuesday, August 29 and Wednesday, August 30. The outcomes of these assessments play a crucial role in enhancing teaching methods and learning experiences.
Academic Integrity Workshop
A session on Academic Integrity for MYP was conducted on Wednesday, October 4. During these sessions, students engaged in various activities aimed at familiarising them with different forms of Academic Misconduct and ways to steer clear of them. Offences like Plagiarism, Collusion, Cheating, and Duplication carry significant consequences and may lead to disciplinary measures. It is crucial that our arguments draw upon the insights and ideas of others, while also acknowledging their contributions, expressing our unique perspectives, and submitting original work in our own voice. Students can expect regular guidance to hone these vital skills.
Sam Weavers
MYP Curriculum Coordinator
__________________________
Email: [email protected]
DP/A levels Coordinator
EE Unpacking and Academic Integrity Workshop
On September 28th, our DP 1 students participated in an Academic Integrity and Extended Essay (EE) workshop, which was facilitated by a team of educators. The workshop was led by Mr. Henry Bateeze, who serves as the EE Coordinator, Mr. Vicent Bukenya, the ATL Skills Coordinator, Mr. Patrick Kasenge, our Secondary Librarian, and Mr. Kanyesigye Kenneth, the DP Curriculum Coordinator.
During the workshop, students had the opportunity to delve into various important topics, including Academic Integrity, Research Skills, Effective Citations and Referencing, as well as the School’s Academic Integrity Policies. To conclude the session, students also took a pledge to uphold academic integrity in their academic endeavours.
DP Core Teacher Workshops
On September 27, 2023, and October 4, 2023, our dedicated DP and A Levels teachers participated in essential workshops related to the DP core components. These workshops were led by our CAS Coordinator, Ms. Fiona Kinyua, and our EE Coordinator, Mr. Henry Bateeze.
The primary focus of these workshops was to ensure that our educators are well-prepared to provide our students with a meaningful learning experience that goes beyond the confines of the classroom. We aim to empower our students to make a positive impact on the societies in which we all live.
As we move forward, we are eagerly anticipating a fruitful year filled with exciting opportunities for exploration and meaningful contributions to our community.
Kenneth Kanyesigye
DP / A Level Curriculum Coordinator
__________________________
Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
Midterm already! Time flies; Day 1 of this academic year feels like just yesterday! It’s reassuring and comforting to see how well the entire AIS community has adapted to the few changes made for everyone’s safety. We can’t thank you enough, and we hope for the same positive energy and understanding to continue.
Administration Office Timings
We’re here to help in the Administration Block, but please remember our office hours: Mon-Fri, 7:30 am – 5:00 pm, and Sat, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. To meet with teachers, schedule in advance via Toddle.
Early Student Dismissal
At AIS, we understand that there may be circumstances requiring students to be picked up early. To ensure a smooth process, we kindly ask parents/guardians to inform the Administration Department or the student’s Head of Department for assistance.
AIS Health Checks
At AIS, we prioritize a healthy community. Free health checks for students and staff are forthcoming and communicated through Toddle. Parents can opt-out by contacting the homeroom teacher or Administration.
After-School Clubs
Clubs are back and enhanced! Parent/Guardian Info Letters via students help you monitor your child’s learning, progress, and club needs. Receive letters at term start and end. Contact Ms. Rosyelene for facilitator meetings or email [email protected] for missing letters.
Consistent Uniform Labelling
We kindly request and remind parents/guardians to label their child’s uniforms and other belongings. This labelling makes it easier to identify the owner in case of misplacement. Please visit any of the Administration Receptions for guidance on how to label your child’s uniforms, which cost UGX 2,000.
Lost and Found
We encourage you to check the Lost and Found Stall for any lost items before they are donated to a good cause after the midterm break. Please note that these items were left during the previous academic year, 2022-2023.
Please be aware that all students (EYP3 onwards) are expected to wear the school uniform during the school day, including the school sweater.
Rosyelene Ampumuza
HoD Administration
____________________________
Email: [email protected]
COFFEE WITH CURRICULUM COORDINATORS
PYP
Our first CCC meeting of the year took place on September 1, marking a pivotal moment for fostering a strong school-parent-community connection. During this event, we introduced the PYP department and delved deeper into the various curricular activities scheduled throughout the year. Parents who attended also participated by filling out a KWL sheet, allowing us to address concerns and shape the content of future meetings.
MYP
An effective three-way partnership between students, parents, and the school is crucial for creating the most conducive environment for students’ development. To strengthen this partnership and offer you deeper insights into your child’s learning journey, the theme of the recent Coffee with Curriculum Coordinator (CCC) held on Friday, September 1 and Saturday, September 2 was ‘Inside MYP Assessments’. This interactive session was designed to provide parents with a comprehensive understanding of the assessment methods employed in the IB Middle Years Programme, to better support students.
During the workshop, we delved into the specifics of the MYP assessment criteria, enabling parents to gain a clearer picture of how progress is evaluated across different subjects. We truly appreciate parents’ engagement and active participation in this workshop. We will shape future workshop sessions around the suggestions of parents as captured in the feedback form as we continue to navigate the MYP learning journey together.
DP/A Levels
Over September 1 and 2, we had the opportunity to discuss various important aspects of our educational program at AIS.
We delved into topics such as our learning management tool, Toddle, explored the curriculum structure for upper secondary levels, discussed our approaches to teaching, learning, and assessment, highlighted the significance of parent involvement and engagement, emphasized the importance of effective parent-teacher communication, and shed light on the various career pathways available at our school.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the parents who dedicated their time to attending the CCC sessions. We kindly request your continued commitment and involvement. At Acorns, we firmly believe that parents play a pivotal role in shaping and enriching the academic journey of our students.
MESSAGE FROM THE CAREERS TEAM
Celebrating Success: Secondary Career Days and University Fair 2023
Connecting Dreams to Futures
Greetings, Acorns International School Community!
We are thrilled to share the highlights of our just-concluded Secondary Career Days and University Fair, which took place from September 18 to 20, 2023. This extraordinary event, designed to inspire and guide our students towards their educational and career aspirations, was an immense success, and we couldn’t be prouder of our school community.
University Fair: A World of Opportunities
The University Fair, held on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, was a resounding success with a remarkable turnout of over 700 members. With a total of 45 university delegates hailing from prestigious institutions in the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, Australia, Germany, and Switzerland, our students were immersed in a world of diverse educational opportunities. This Fair, organized in conjunction with our student placement agency partner, UNISERV, proved to be an invaluable resource for students seeking to study abroad.
The Fair provided a unique platform for our students to interact with representatives from some of the world’s top universities. They received first-hand information on academic programs, admission requirements, scholarships, and the overall university experience. It was truly a global exploration of educational possibilities!
Secondary Career Days: Nurturing Aspirations
Before the University Fair, we hosted two enriching days of Secondary Career activities on September 18 and 19, 2023. These days were dedicated to helping our students understand themselves better, discover their strengths, and align their goals with their career dreams.
Our students engaged in various career tasks that encouraged self-reflection and personal growth. They learned about their personality types and explored potential career paths. Additionally, we had the privilege of hosting two distinguished guest speakers:
- Mr. Robert Kiwalazi, an industrious Supply Chain Manager currently with R&K Operations, Supply-Consultants, and Associate Consultant in Kampala.
- Mr. Ivan Irumba, a Senior Audit Manager – Projects at Martin Path & Associates.
These accomplished professionals shared invaluable insights into their career journeys and the requirements for pursuing similar career paths. Their stories served as a wellspring of inspiration for our students who aspire to excel in these fields.
The road to higher education and beyond
Career Days and the University Fair have proven to be instrumental in shaping our students’ futures, as exemplified by the outstanding accomplishments of our past graduates. The impact of these events is truly profound, setting our students on a trajectory towards success.
Our alumni’s achievements speak volumes!
Praise Kajura and Patsy Kibwika are pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at the prestigious University of Debrecen in Hungary. Anthony Bitarabeho is thriving in the field of Biochemistry at Near East University-Cyprus. Conan Egesa is making strides in accounting and finance at Oxford Brookes University, while Jade Kabazi is charting a promising course in the same field at Aston University. Additionally, Aaron Rattos has embarked on an exciting aviation journey with Select Aviation in Canada, and Vaishnavi Gogulapati is diligently working towards her Bachelor of Commerce degree with a focus on Accounting at Symbiosis University. Qadirah Kasule has started her studies in Business and Management at Aston University.
The rest of our graduates are eagerly anticipating the start of their academic semesters, poised to embark on their respective journeys at their chosen universities. These exceptional accomplishments underscore the pivotal role that events like Career Days and the University Fair play in preparing our students for educational and professional success.
As we celebrate this year’s accomplishments, we eagerly look forward to witnessing the bright futures that await our current cohort of students. Together, we continue to connect dreams to futures.
EYP FAMILY WEEK
The transdisciplinary theme “Who We Are” journey ended with a bang during the Annual EYP Family Week! EYP enjoyed celebrating with their loved ones, from the heartwarming Grandparents Day to the cosy movie session with popcorn. Circle time festivities brought everyone closer, and the mini family carnival was a whirlwind of crafts, games, and awesome face paint! Sharing this special week with families while wrapping up the first learning unit was truly magical.
ASSEMBLIES
PYP3
We had the pleasure of hosting the PYP3 Assembly, focusing on the theme “Role Models in Our Society.” The students skillfully demonstrated the qualities needed to achieve personal dreams—such as hard work, patience, perseverance, and persistence—through captivating play skits, vibrant dance performances, and impressive sports demonstrations.
PYP5
To make the world a better place, we must embrace diversity and believe in ourselves. During the PYP5 assembly, students conveyed this message brilliantly through their spectacular murmuration dance and frozen statue presentation, encouraging unity and high hopes. It was a perfect reflection of the transdisciplinary theme “Who We Are.”
A Levels
On September 7, a remarkable assembly unfolded, featuring two outstanding presentations by our AS and A Levels classes. The A-level Victoria students embodied the learner profile of Caring as they conducted interviews with members of our school community. These insightful interviews were skillfully recorded and expertly edited into a captivating short film, which they enthusiastically presented on the stage. In the meantime, the AS Albert class addressed the pressing global issue of Mental Health in the 21st century. They organized an informative slide presentation, followed by an engaging quiz that drew active participation from students in various classes.
IBDP
Our IBDP assembly on October 5 centered around the theme of “The Past and the Present.”. They reflected on their years at AIS, emphasizing how their engagement in various activities contributed to their personal and academic growth. This introspective journey allowed them to truly value their educational path and recognize the influence of school life. They encouraged all students to cultivate the practice of constructive reflection and uphold academic integrity at all times. The assembly concluded with a captivating fusion dance performance, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of India and Uganda, showcasing the cultural diversity and unity represented by their homerooms.
MESSAGE FROM PRIMARY COUNSELLOR
At AIS, we firmly believe that preventing and addressing exploitation, abuse, neglect, harmful practices, and violence against children is the cornerstone of our ethical framework. We invite parents to join us in our mission to ensure the safety and protection of our children. Your vigilance is crucial in addressing such issues, and we emphasize a proactive approach rather than reactive measures. Our PSPE classes also empower students with knowledge about safeguarding, their rights as students, and our responsibilities as a school.
MESSAGE FROM SECONDARY COUNSELLOR
In our PSPE curriculum, we recently explored the topic of “Change.” Change is an inevitable part of life, whether by choice or circumstance. It’s natural to feel insecurity, vulnerability, and stress when faced with change. However, embracing change allows us to adapt to new situations, circumstances, and people while seizing the opportunities they bring. Our students have examined the changes occurring as they grow older and their impact on them. Through reflection, they learn to accept change and discover its positive aspects.
As AIS counsellors, we conducted annual Professional Development Training for the entire staff on Child Protection and Safeguarding. This training is a vital investment in creating a safer environment for our children. By increasing awareness, equipping our staff with knowledge and skills, and promoting responsible actions, we empower our entire team to protect children from harm and enhance their well-being both within and outside the school.
SECONDARY DEPARTMENT INSIGHTS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Participating in DofE and Club Activities
Engaging in DofE and Clubs is an integral part of the AIS Secondary experience. These programmes are designed to foster well-rounded skills necessary for thriving in the 21st century. We kindly urge you to instil the spirit of service in our students at home, encouraging their involvement in these enriching Clubs and activities. Beyond personal development, participation strengthens their sense of community and belonging. If your child has yet to explore these opportunities, we encourage them to get involved. For more information, please reach out to Ms. Fiona Makena, our Service Coordinator, at [email protected]
Safety Measures
The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our utmost priority. We diligently follow health and safety protocols to mitigate infection spread and safeguard our school community. We request your continued partnership in adhering to guidelines and promoting good hygiene practices among your children. Please note that we do not endorse food sharing, and we kindly request that your child wears their ID card for added safety and security. Every Secondary student is provided with an ID card. If your child has lost theirs, please contact the AIS Accounts Office to arrange for a replacement. If there are any changes to personal details, provided at the time of enrolment, please contact [email protected]
Secondary Family Check-In Meetings
As indicated on the calendar, the Secondary family check-in meetings are scheduled for Saturday, October 28, 2023. This presents a valuable opportunity for you to engage in meaningful discussions with your child’s teachers, assess their progress, and address any concerns you may have.
AS student as Guest Speaker
Faith Okeyo, our AS student interacted with the PYP students on the theme of exploring Identity through Arts. The session was much enjoyed by the PYP students. Here is what Faith had to say about the session:
“My heart flew around the stars and landed back in place when I was invited to a PYP3 Art Class. Before I was told what I would be doing in the class I had already accepted the offer with the corners of my lips nearly reaching my ears due to my happiness. The year three class was learning artist role models and I was invited as a student role model. Due to my art portfolio’s theme being Identity, my main focus in PYP3 was identity. I asked them to express their identity on a sheet of paper, some drew and others wrote. I showed my artworks and allowed them to look around and I was more than happy to answer any questions they had. This was a very refreshing experience that allowed me to view the simplicity of identity through the eyes of children.”
Students Making a Difference Through Service
We are delighted to announce that we have reached the midpoint of the term, marked by a multitude of remarkable achievements in various domains. In our unwavering commitment to excellence, we continuously provide our students with opportunities to shine and thrive.
Our diverse club offerings serve as a platform for students to acquire new skills and hone existing ones, all while enjoying themselves. Simultaneously, our Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) programme plays a crucial role in equipping students with meaningful experiences, fostering their confidence and resilience, and enabling them to develop new skills.
In the realm of service, our MYP3 students embarked on an inspiring community project journey. Their initial visit to Katoogo village aimed to connect with the community, understand their needs, and select a project aligned with those needs. During this visit, students interacted with Pearl Primary students, engaged with Katoogo community members at the shopping and health centres, and spent quality time with assigned households. These experiences were profoundly enriching and invaluable.
The Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) component, integral to the Diploma program, extends personal and interpersonal learning. IBDP1 students have eagerly embarked on their CAS journey, including organizing the impactful Peace Day and raising awareness about peace through engaging activities. IBDP2 students are diligently progressing in their CAS journey, showcasing dedication and personal growth.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your steadfast support, which contributes to our vibrant and thriving school community.
EXPLORING AND LEARNING BEYOND CLASSROOMS
MYP5 Geography Trip
On October 6, MYP5 went on their subject-specific experiential learning trips.
The MYP5 students of Geography went to Sezibwa Falls to do a field study on river velocity and various measurements related to the Drainage basin as part of their Geography coursework. This helped them learn through firsthand experiences of measuring the various features of drainage basins leading to a deeper understanding and practical application of the textbook information. Alongside, they came back enriched with cultural and historical knowledge about the falls and their relationship with the people of the land.
Such experiential learning trips enhance our students’ learning experiences and promote engagement and motivation. They offer our AIS students a valuable opportunity to connect to the real world beyond the classrooms and books.
DofE Practice Journey to Hoima
On October 14 and 15, 83 Secondary students set off for their DofE qualifying practice journey to Hoima. AIS had all the three levels, i.e., Bronze, Silver and Gold participating in this adventure journey. The main aim of the practice journey was to help them build stamina and learn survival skills and preparation of the main qualifying Adventure Journey.
The students learnt to read maps, hike for many kilometres, pitch tents, and cook meals. Such beyond the classroom experiences help them in getting better at self-management and organization skills as well as their social and emotional intelligence. The students happily endured the hardship including a sudden torrential rain in the early morning. They came back with a sense of purpose as they helped plant tree-fences in three schools in Hoima.
MYP Overnight Fun Trip
On October 14 and 15, 2023, our MYP1, 2 and 3 set off early in the morning to enjoy a fun- filled activity packed overnight trip to Entebbe. Their first stop was at the Uganda Museum where they learnt about the different cultures of Ugandan people and the history of the land. They then set off for Buloba Forest Park. They enjoyed the various activities like riding bikes, trampoline, zip lines, merry-go-round there and then spent the night at Imperial Resort Beach Hotel. They then visited the zoo and learnt about the various species and their habitats.
The overnight trip helped our students build resilience, independence and self management skills. These experiences go beyond traditional classroom education and provide students with practical life skills, character development and a sense of purpose.
AIS @ the World Schools Football Cup Spain
In pursuit of our Vision to inspire our students to achieve their best, we embarked on an ambitious endeavour: having our students participate in the 2023 World Schools Football Cup in Barcelona Salou. This year, from October 13 to 15, our U15 Girls Football team and U13 Boys Football team proudly represented AIS in this prestigious event. All 26 participants and coaches attest to the invaluable lessons they’ve acquired, both in terms of new skills and tactics, and the profound inspiration gained from their fellow students on the global stage.
Our AIS U15 girls exhibited outstanding performance, securing a spot in the Plate competition after a commendable fourth-place finish in Group A. Their journey in the playoffs took them all the way to the Final, where they showcased their remarkable skills. Although they narrowly lost to Prior Park School, they secured the second position in the U15 Girls Plate for this year’s tournament. Notably, Eniyaah Sundar and Zahraa Al Achkar’s Goal against Braeburn School Arusha was nominated as goal of the tournament, celebrating the incredible skills they displayed.
Among the eighteen U13 Boys teams that participated, the AIS team secured the thirteenth position. The dedication and hard work of all our students have been recognized, and they were rewarded with well-deserved medals for their efforts.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the parents, teachers, members of the senior management, and the students who played pivotal roles in making this trip a reality. As we reflect on our first participation in an event of this calibre, we are more determined than ever to put in the effort required for a more competitive showing in next year’s competitions. Our commitment to fostering excellence in our students remains unwavering.
GLOBAL VILLAGE
The 2023 Global Village centred around the theme of UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, focusing on Peace, Justice, and Inclusion. Throughout the event, students, whether they were in the EYP, PYP, MYP, DP, or A Levels, unleashed their creativity and innovation to express their interpretations of peace, justice, and inclusion. They showcased their ideas through a diverse array of mediums, including art, dance, posters, presentations, origami, and poetry.
Early Years & Primary
Secondary
Global Village Video
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF FINANCE
Fees
- Term I fees were due by August 22, 2023. 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]
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.
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 p.m. Students picked after this time will be charged at the rate of $5 per 15 minutes.
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]
Binal Patel
HoD Finance
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Email: [email protected]
