Dear Parents,
For those of you who like a short message: I wish you and your families a very happy summer. It has been wonderful to get to know so many of you and to support, as best as I could, the education of your children. I will miss you! I hope I will get to see many of you at our PTA organised end of year party – from 15:15 on June 20th behind the MYP building.
For those of you who wish to have more information…I invite you to read on!
This year marked a significant milestone for our institution as we proudly became a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS). This prestigious membership reflects our commitment to providing a high-quality international education and aligns us with a global network of schools dedicated to continuous improvement. Being part of CIS will not only enhance our school’s reputation but also provide invaluable opportunities for professional development, collaborative initiatives, and benchmarking against international standards.
We are delighted to announce that we have taken steps to renew our status as an Apple Distinguished School, a testament to our innovative use of technology in education. Our continued organisation of AI Bootcamps, Robotics competitions, and workshops has enabled our students to explore cutting-edge technologies and develop crucial 21st-century skills. Additionally, our outreach programs have allowed students to share their expertise and passion for technology with the broader community, fostering a spirit of collaboration and lifelong learning. These initiatives underscore our commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving digital world.
In line with our dedication to advancing the United Nations Sustainability Goals, we have made significant strides in integrating sustainability into our curriculum and school culture. This year, we achieved Eco-School status, a recognition of our efforts to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices. From the PYP Exhibition to Demo Night to the Personal Project to Earth Day, sustainability is a central theme that inspires our students to take action and make a positive impact on the planet. Our Eco-School status is a proud achievement that reflects our ongoing commitment to nurturing environmentally responsible global citizens.
Our dedication to fostering the unique character of H-FARM International School is evident in our continuous professional development efforts. This year, we have continued to conduct trainings that align with our strategic vision and distinctive educational philosophy. These trainings are designed to enhance our educators’ skills and knowledge, ensuring that they can effectively support our students’ academic and personal growth. By investing in our teachers, we are investing in the future of our students and the overall success of our school.
This year, we introduced an impactful wellbeing strategy, an initiative aimed at promoting the physical, emotional, and mental health of our students and staff. The implementation of this strategy has already shown impressive results in terms of student feedback on wellbeing. Related to students wellbeing, we have also witnessed noticeable improvements in academic performance across various subjects, including language learning and mathematics. This can be seen in standardised test scores and in our teacher feedback. Our holistic approach to education recognizes the importance of wellbeing as a foundation for academic success and personal development. We will continue to monitor and refine this strategy to ensure it meets the evolving needs of our school community.
As we close out the year, we are undertaking a comprehensive curriculum review with the assistance of experts from multiple fields. This review is part of our ongoing commitment to providing a relevant, rigorous, and dynamic educational experience for our students. By incorporating diverse perspectives and expertise, we aim to enhance our curriculum and ensure it prepares our students for the challenges and opportunities of the future. This process of continuous improvement is essential to maintaining the high standards of education that define H-FARM International School.
Reflecting on the past year, we are reminded of the strength and resilience of our school community. From the enriching experiences of bootcamps and educational trips to the joyous celebrations of the winter fair and the end-of-year party, generously supported by our PTA, we have demonstrated that we are indeed stronger together. These events have not only provided valuable learning opportunities but also fostered a sense of unity and belonging among our students, staff, and families. As we look forward to the future, we carry with us the collective spirit that has made this year a success and continue to build on the strong foundations we have established.
In conclusion, this year has been one of growth, achievement, and collaboration. Our new CIS membership, renewed Apple Distinguished School status, Eco-School recognition, strategic professional development, wellbeing initiatives, and ongoing curriculum review all highlight our commitment to excellence in education. We are proud of the progress we have made and are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we will continue to inspire and empower our students to reach their full potential and make a positive impact on the world.
Finally, on a personal note, my two years here have been very happy ones. I am very grateful to all of you for the welcome and the support you have provided to me and my family. I will continue to support this wonderful community through my role on the educational board, so this is not a good-bye but an arrivederci!
Best wishes,
Conan