This term in Reception our topics are Sand and Water and Treasure.

We have spent lots of time working in the sand and water trays whilst enjoying the lovely sunshine and in class we have been learning about islands around the world and the different habitats they provide.

One morning we came in to find a mysterious treasure chest had appeared in our classroom. It was filled with lots of different pirate paraphernalia including a hat, an eye patch, a telescope and even a parrot! On another day the school grounds were covered in gold coins and we had to try and find them all. It was very exciting!

Each day we have also found a treasure clue and when we pieced these all together the sentence said, `The treasure is at Villeneuve.`

So watch this space because it looks like we will be off on a treasure hunt soon!

Yesterday saw all the Junior classes participating in the Entry Point for their final IMYC Units of the year. The unit for Year 9 is centred on Leadership, with the Big Idea’ being ‘For better or worse, one or more people can use influence so that others aid and support them’. Year 8 will be looking at Communication, with their Big Idea being ‘When information is shared accurately and clearly, the end result is more effective’. Collaboration will be the guiding theme for Year 7, examining the concept that ‘When people work together, they can achieve a common goal’.

Making the most of the fact that spring has arrived, the entry point for all the year groups took place outside of the classroom. We all travelled to Montreux and the day was spent undertaking a series of tasks involving inquiry and observation, based on the guiding theme for each class. All three groups took part in a quiz and a photo challenge. Year 9 students were required to show their own leadership and organisational skills, finding their own way to Montreux using public transport before beginning their tasks. Though they were shadowed by two teachers, the responsibility for their journey was very much their own. They came through the challenge well and it was obvious that they enjoyed the personal accountability involved in such tasks. Once in Montreux, their main task centred on how this beautiful town has established its leadership in the tourist industry, establishing a worldwide reputation. They were examining what the town’s leaders and entrepreneurs have done to ensure the continuing success of Montreux, making the most of its natural advantages?

Years 7 and 8 were required to search for and record evidence of Collaboration and Communication in a real world, ‘live’ setting. The Entry Point is designed to get the students thinking about their Big Idea. Providing them with the opportunity to do this by way of their own observation and inquiry outside the confines of the classroom gives the whole learning experience much more impact. Not only did a lot of learning take place but at the same time the whole group had a very enjoyable day!

With the third term under way, we are all very busy! This term we have continued to work on individual after school projects whether they be musical, artistic etc, and the students discuss with the Boarding Director how best to integrate the time within their day. The students are working on individual art projects and design classes as well, a lot of project based learning. I would though like my art students to only do so in the art room but then again, Idon't think anyone asked  Van Gogh to stay in his room! Some of the students have also produced meals for the evening dinner and created some tasty dishes. Well done!

Welcome back to all the students who were away for the Easter break. We are happy to see that you have enjoyed your holidays and are now ready to work through term 3! It will be a very quick term as with the school trips abroad, the end of year show and award ceremony to prepare not to mention the expeditions, charity events and special boarding activities, the eight weeks will fly by!

WELCOME BACK - we hope that everyone had a lovely Easter break!

Thinking of others! Our students demonstrate thoughtful actions everyday but we were especially proud of Eliza who decided to cut off 21 cm of her beautiful hair during the holidays to donate to The Little Princess Trust. The Little Princess Trust provides real hair wigs free of charge to children and young adults who have sadly lost their own hair due to cancer treatment and other illnesses. Eliza explained she wanted to do it to help others, and she felt great knowing her actions would have a positive impact on someone else. Well done Eliza, we are proud of you!