The Tiger, December 8th, 2023
Head of School Message
15th-year Anniversary Celebrations and Accreditation Report
Two things happened over the past two weeks that marked major milestones in the development of our school - the 15th-year celebrations and the school’s third five-year accreditation report. Since 2008, the school has continued to grow both in size and in reputation. From a small cohort of students in 2008-2009, we now have close to 680 enrolled students and over 100 teachers from all corners of the world.
Stonehill is now a school of choice for both expat and local families, and the school has a solid reputation for providing a genuinely international IB education with a broad range of opportunities for all students.
The celebration on the 1st of December was a good example of the strength of the Stonehill community. Around 700 students, parents, teachers, and admin staff were on campus to enjoy an evening of good food, socialising, live music, and dancing. The event was a visible reminder of how our school community is able to bring together children of all ages and people of all cultures and nationalities for a shared experience.
Whole School News
The Miles For Smiles X Tiger Trail
Thank you to everyone who joined us for an incredible day at our annual cross-country fundraising event, hosted by Bachendri House and the Secondary PHE Department! It was a great opportunity to raise funds for 'Reach Lives' an orphanage, making a positive impact on young lives. Your enthusiasm and participation made this event wonderful!
PTA News
The PTA Winter Market was a bustling hub of festive cheer today. From artisanal crafts to delectable treats, there was something enchanting for everyone. Laughter and joy filled the air as students sang Christmas carols and visitors browsed through our thoughtfully curated market. It was a truly heartwarming event to kick off the holiday season!
PTA Winter Market
Primary School
Gratitude
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
As we approach the winter holiday season, I trust this message finds you well and that you are enjoying the company of your loved ones. I believe this time of year is a wonderful time for reflection and gratitude.
As you know, at Stonehill, we believe in nurturing the academic growth of our students alongside growth in the character and values of your child(ren). In the Primary school, some of the essential qualities we aim to instil in our learners are; their ability and desire to be reflective, for learners to be thinkers and for them to show care. I believe that being thankful for the positives in our lives, and being willing to show appreciation for others and to show kindness, helps us grow as individuals and it also helps our community to bond and grow together. Over my 30 years in education, I have seen that when staff, students and parents show gratitude, this can be a powerful force to enhance the overall well-being of individuals and contribute to a positive and supportive school community. With this in mind, I would like to encourage you and your child(ren) to join me in fostering a culture of appreciation and thankfulness in our students, and across our community.
Please take a moment to talk to your child(ren) about expressing gratitude to the people in their lives who provide support, guidance, and assistance. This could include their teachers, classmates, family members, friends, and other individuals who play a role in their growth and development. Please ask your child(ren) to consider those who might not spring to their minds initially. In that vein, I have written five paragraphs below, about five of my colleagues. I am deeply grateful for the contribution these colleagues make to our wonderful community, yet their support, hard work and wonderful ways of being, may not be known by many.
So, as we navigate the challenges and joys of this academic year together, let us help children acknowledge the efforts of those who contribute to their educational and life journey. This might include your child’s bus driver, bus supervisor, your personal driver or someone who helps at home. By doing this together, we will develop our wonderful community even further, and all be part of a community where gratitude is celebrated and kindness is the norm.
On a personal note, after my first four months as Primary Principal, I would like to thank you all for your continued support and partnership. Together, we have continued to create a positive and nurturing environment for our students and to communicate with honesty and transparency. I am sure that when we return to school in January, we will come back stronger, and united as a community for the benefit of all.
I wish you and your family a joyful and gratitude-filled holiday.
Safe travels.
PYP Coordinator
Physical Education in the PYP
The Primary School concluded a successful week of Physical Education (PE) showcases that highlighted the important values such as sportsmanship, teamwork, resilience, and the joy of being active. Each grade level participated in a series of engaging and skill-based learning experiences.
These included traditional sports like basketball to creative and cooperative games that fostered collaboration among students and parents.
The success of these showcases not only reinforces the significance of PE in the curriculum but also demonstrates the positive impact of a holistic approach to education that values both mental and physical development. Regular exposure to all kinds of physical learning experiences enables learners to make informed choices throughout their lives. Stonehill’s balanced PE curriculum includes the following types of experiences:
-
Individual pursuits: The development of basic motor skills and the body’s capacity for movement through locomotor and manipulative skills and experiences; the techniques, rules and purpose of a range of athletic activities (for example, track and field, swimming); recognising a high level of achievement and how to improve a performance.
-
Movement composition: Recognising that movements can be linked together and refined to create a sequence of aesthetic movements. Movements can be in response to stimuli or performance criteria and can communicate feelings, emotions and ideas (for example, gymnastics, dance, martial arts).
-
Games: Recognising the challenges presented by games; the importance of manipulating space; the categorising of games; identifying and developing appropriate skills and strategies; recognising the importance of rules and how they define the nature of a game; modifying existing games and creating new games; teamwork.
-
Adventure challenges: A variety of tasks requiring the use of physical and critical-thinking skills by individuals and groups; challenges that require groups to work together collaboratively in order to solve problems and accomplish a common goal; recognising the role of the individual in group problem solving.
-
Health-related fitness: Recognising and appreciating the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle; the body’s response to exercise including the interaction of body systems and the development of physical fitness.
References:
Making the PYP Happen: A curriculum framework for international primary education, International Baccalaureate, 2009
Zita Joyce
PYP Coordinator
PYP Counsellor
Helpful Hints to Spend Quality Time With Your Kids During the Holidays
The festive season brings a wealth of opportunities to connect and create cherished moments with your children, regardless of holiday celebrations.
Here are five ways to help you make the most of this special time.
Embrace Shared Activities
Encourage bonding through shared activities that align with your family's values and interests. Whether it's exploring nature, cooking meals together, creating art, or engaging in DIY projects, focus on experiences that bring joy and strengthen connections.
Cultivate Unplugged Moments
Designate periods for screen-free quality time. Engage in storytelling, music jam sessions, or engaging games that promote interaction and laughter. These moments provide an ideal space for meaningful conversations and fostering closeness.
Instil Values of Gratitude and Kindness
Use this season as an opportunity to instil values of gratitude and kindness in your children. Participate in community service, practice random acts of kindness, or involve them in charitable activities. These experiences nurture empathy and compassion.
Find Balance and Restorative Moments
Amidst the excitement, ensure a balance between festive engagements and downtime. Allow for quiet moments to read, reflect, or pursue individual interests. Creating this balance prevents feeling overwhelmed and encourages self-reflection.
Preserve Memories Through Reflection
Encourage the documentation of these moments by creating a memory jar, journal, or digital album. Capture photos, write down anecdotes, or collect mementos. At the season's end, revisit these memories as a family, celebrating these shared experiences.
Here’s wishing you a restful and meaningful holiday!
Neeti Sarkar
PYP Counsellor
Primary News
Exploring the Journey of PYP Exhibition: A Celebration of P8 Learners' Inquiry
As the academic year progresses, anticipation builds for this special event in the PYP— the Primary Years Programme Exhibition, an empowering project for our P8 learners. This learning journey is not only a display of academic prowess but also a transformative dive that encapsulates critical thinking, collaboration, and transdisciplinary exploration.
Selecting the Inquiry: Nurturing Curiosity
The journey begins with learners selecting a meaningful inquiry that resonates with their interests and passions. This critical decision sets the tone for the entire project, fostering a sense of ownership and curiosity. The goal is to connect with real-world issues and empathise to make a change in the world. Thinking globally, acting local.
Guided by Mentors: The Role of Primary School Teachers
Crucial to this exploration is the guidance provided by our teachers, who step into the role of mentors. They assist learners in refining their inquiries, asking probing questions, and developing a deeper understanding.
From Critical Thinking to Action: The PYPx Process Unveiled
The PYP Exhibition is not merely about theoretical exploration. Learners move beyond the classrooms, thinking critically, finding information through diverse sources, and even conducting interviews to learn from experts. This transition from knowledge acquisition to application is a testament to the PYP philosophy, emphasising the importance of not just learning about the world but actively engaging with it.
Secondary School
Cyber Security - empowering students to be safe and responsible users of Technology
Impactful and meaningful Cyber Security sessions were conducted for the M1 to M4 students. The sessions delved into crucial topics such as identifying and addressing hate speech, understanding the implications of one's digital footprint, recognising red flags in online chats, and prioritising privacy and security.
Students were also equipped with valuable insights on responding to hate speech and cyberbullying scenarios, along with practical tips on safeguarding their online privacy. The overarching goal was to empower students to become safe and responsible users of technology, fostering a digital environment that promotes respect and security.
Arts Week - an opportunity to experience and explore different Art mediums
The Stonehill Arts Committee put together a four-day-long celebration of the Arts. The events included: lip sync & rap battle, karaoke, pop-up exhibitions, dress down day (students and teachers got to embody the spirit of their favourite artist), Stonehill sessions, painting and makeup booths, hip hop sessions, caricature artists, face painting, drop-in drama stage, talent show, mural painting, and much more.
Throughout the Arts Week, we had “vibes” which gave everyone the opportunity to experience, play, and explore different Art Mediums in a casual environment. It was a resounding success, not only showcasing the artistic talents within the community but also fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for the diverse forms of creativity. It served as a reminder that Art is a powerful tool of expression, bringing people together and enriching our lives in ways that go beyond the canvas or stage. The event left a lasting impression, inspiring a continued celebration of the Arts throughout the academic year.
Writers in the making
We're excited to celebrate the achievements of three of our students in the world of writing. Surabhi, M4, and Aarrnaa, M1, had their short stories published in the book, "Love Can Kill." Another exceptional writer, Sanjana, D1, has gone a step further by publishing her own book, "Flames First Fraction."
These accomplishments showcase the incredible literary talents of our students. They not only make us proud but also inspire their fellow students to explore and express their creativity. We congratulate them on their outstanding contributions to the world of literature and look forward to seeing more of our students shine in various artistic pursuits. Well done!
Secondary News
Secondary Design
Designing A Desk Organiser: A Fun Journey into Woodworking for M1 Students
Making desk organisers isn't just about wood and tools. It's a journey of creativity, problem-solving, and working together. Our M1 students dived into the world of making desk organisers, using Criteria C (picking tools, equipment, and materials) and Criteria D (evaluating).
Picking the right wood is the first step. For those just starting, it's all about manufactured wood, like 9mm plywood. Armed with basic tools such as Japanese saws, hammers, and screwdrivers, the students not only make products but also get a crash course in using tools safely.
Now, let's talk construction. This is where students put their tools and material knowledge to work. They measure, cut, and put all the pieces together. It's like a hands-on puzzle that makes them understand how things are made.
Now for the problem-solving challenges. The students get to flex their brains, figuring out how to securely join two pieces of wood or add a sliding drawer to their organiser. This isn't just a test; it's Criteria D in action, encouraging students to face challenges and become real woodworking problem solvers.
The students are in evaluation mode now, judging their own creations against a criteria. It's like looking in a mirror for their projects, seeing what's awesome and what could use a little extra magic. The students teamed up with their friends for peer evaluations. It's all about working together, sharing ideas, and seeing things from different angles.
M2 Design: Empathy, Design Thinking, and Mobile App Development: A Perfect Combination!
Our M2 designers have started designing and programming different mobile apps using the MIT App Inventor. Our learners developed multiple apps like the photo booth, translator, paint pot, chatbot and many more. For this unit, they are designing and programming a mobile application to solve a problem on sustainability for a client of their choice.
M3
Diving into the world of website design for our M3 students is like stepping into a captivating adventure where Criteria C (selecting and using tools, techniques, and processes) and Criteria D (Evaluation) steal the spotlight. The students are mastering HTML tags to weave their content seamlessly.
M4 - Digital Design
At present, our M4 digital design students are enjoying the unit centred on the creation of an automation product. Their approach to this endeavour has been methodical and professional.
After conducting extensive research and thoughtfully framing research questions, which serve as the foundation for the development of a comprehensive design brief, our designers are working on their final projects.
Each learner is coming up with their own ideation and implementation. Learners are implementing their knowledge about using different sensors and microcontrollers to complete their product. Along with this, the students are logging their journey in the ePortfolio.
D1 - Computer Science
The students completed their mid-term review after understanding the system fundamentals and computer organisation. They will now work on enhancing their coding skills using Java. Our dynamic students have started working on their Internal Assessment by researching a problem scenario with proper software solutions.
M4 Product Design
The M4 Product Design students engaged in a module focused on developing products that promote inclusivity. After generating various ideas, they have chosen the most promising one. Subsequently, the students have devised a plan and have started the process of bringing the product to life based on an outlined strategy. Presented below are some visual representations of their conceptualisations.
M5 Product Design
The M5 Product Design students have concluded a module focused on developing products aimed at improving the productivity of their clients. The students crafted successfully crafted products using the Design Cycle. Plywood served as the principal material, and a combination of power and hand tools were employed in the manufacturing process. Presented below are visual representations showcasing the resulting products.
Competition Updates
Our Digital Design and Computer Science students participated in various coding competitions and have made us proud.
On October 13th, our coders participated in an inter-school Hackathon organised by Indus International School. These coders developed an IoT integrated robot to assist the farmers This novel idea and product was appreciated by the judges and our coders placed first in the event.
On October 14th, our passionate and energetic M4, M5, and D1 students participated in ECHELON, an event organised by Bangalore International School to demonstrate their design skills. We are elated to share that the M4 students won second place in Escape Room and first and third place in the Shark Tank rounds. The D1 Computer Science students came first in the Escape Room and second in the Treasure Hunt rounds.
eWaste Product Design
NOVUS-23
The Stonehill Science Bowl 2023
The annual Stonehill Science Bowl took place on the 1st and 2nd of November 2023. The Science Bowl has been a student-led initiative since 2018 and has evolved into the school's most prestigious Science event of the year. It ensures access to practical sciences for all students, irrespective of their educational system. This year, the event saw widespread participation from schools across India; 46 teams participated online for the High School event and 25 teams participated for the on campus Middle School event.
The Stonehill Science Bowl provided an opportunity for our Science students to demonstrate their scientific passion and develop their leadership and creative skills. The team of students undertook a big project management task. Planning, marketing, developing stimulating rounds of questions, fundraising, running the event, being quizmasters and judges, organising certificates and prizes and testing their own knowledge were all valuable experiences. The event allowed the organising team to work on additional skills such as teamwork, collaboration and communication, amidst their pursuit of academic excellence.
The D2 students are currently focussing on practical investigations. All students are required to collect their data for their individual Internal Assessment laboratory investigations.
The M5 Chemistry students are exploring carbon chemistry and its compounds. With plenty of new terms to challenge them, they also had to rethink the way they were naming the compounds in Chemistry using IUPAC nomenclature. It was challenging as well as engaging for the learners to create models of different hydrocarbons using the Molymod Kit as well as a model of an alkane using humans as seen below.
The M5 Physics students are currently studying "Direct Current Motor" and Fleming's Left Hand Rule. The students disassembled a small DC motor and examined each of its parts to gain an understanding of how DC motors operate. The students documented their learning through group work using the "Parts-Purposes-Complexities" visible thinking routine.
Boarding News
It's hard to believe that we've reached the final month of 2023, having reopened only four months ago.
The recent weeks have been filled with activity and excitement for our school and boarding community, including events such as the Soccer 7's Tournament at BIS, Phuket, the 15th-year celebration, movie night, and the bonfire, among others.
As the Season of Giving unfolds, the Boarding Eldercare Club made a second visit to 'Little Drops,' an old age home, on the 26th of November. Bringing festive cheer with a Christmas-themed day, they set up a Christmas tree, sang carols, and held an origami session with the residents. Zeal,D1, said that it was a wonderful experience to give back to the community and witness smiles on the faces of the elderly. This served as an excellent opportunity for our boarders to learn and serve.
On the 2nd of December, the Stonehill United group organised a fun bonfire for the boarding community. Despite the chilly and wet conditions, the students gathered around the warm fire, roasting marshmallows which turned into a memorable evening.
On December 3rd, a math quiz named 'Beyond Infinity' was organised for the M2 and M3 students. The quiz featured six rounds, Icebreaker, BODMAS, Jeopardy, Jigsaw, Mathematician, and Rapid Fire. The event was fast-paced, and the students found it both engaging and enjoyable. A heartfelt thank you goes to Ms. Reeta for organising the quiz, along with all the participating students and the D1 students who assisted. Congratulations to the winners!
Wishing all the students a well-deserved winter break. To all the M4-M5 and D1 students, I encourage you to find a balance between rest and relaxation, while also dedicating some quality time for revision. This will ensure that you are well-prepared for the Semester 1 exams, which begin on the 16th of January, 2024.
On behalf of the boarding team, I wish you all a fantastic break and a joyful holiday season.
Glen Johnson
Head of Boarding
Single Hero Image interior pages
