Newsletter

Jeddah Prep and Grammar School






Newsletter






Thursday 13 December 2018
th
Founded in 1967
Issue no. 2

A Term to Remember!




This relatively long and exciting groups in the school. As always, I
first term has reached its very am impressed by the confidence
positive conclusion. I was of the children and their skills in
exceptionally proud to have terms of performing and singing;
pupils and staff represent the they have been an absolute credit
school at a number of to our school. I shall also say a big
Remembrance Day thank you to all the staff involved
commemorations marking the in organising and supporting
100 years since the end of World these events alongside their
War 1. These were held at the teaching requirements in all the
school, the non-Muslim cemetery, subjects and activities we provide
Ecole Française Internationale de here at school. onwards) with them. Last but not
Djeddah and the British least, I would also like to take this
Consulate. Pupils and staff were a Most pupils, if not all, as far as I opportunity to say thank you to
real tribute to the school and the am concerned, need to be each of you, the JPGS pupils and
events. congratulated on their parents. The warm support I have
endeavours and perseverance received from you since the start
We were also very honoured to over this term. Some of our of this academic year in
receive many notable distinctions youngsters will need to review September has been very much
at the Cambridge Assessments their performance and appreciated.
Outstanding Learners Awards application to studies with a view
Ceremony held at the British to making some adjustments and Thankfully we all managed to get
Consulate. Nine students were improvements. I am hopeful that through the unforgettable rains
presented with prestigious those few individuals will return and storms this term!
awards for world-class to school with a better sense of
performance in IGCSE, AS and A purpose and focus to ensure they On behalf of all JPGS staff, I
Level examinations. Well done to maximise their learning would like to wish you all a
all recipients and, of course, to opportunities and outcomes. happy and peaceful winter break.
the teachers behind the scenes I look forward to seeing you
who worked hard to support and I would like to say a huge thank refreshed in the New Year on
guide our young people. you to all the staff and governors Sunday 6th January for the
for making this term so positive commencement of Term 2.
Over the past few days families and enjoyable. I am very
and friends of Jeddah Prep and fortunate to work with such a
Grammar School have been dedicated and committed team, Mr Mark S. Bedford
treated to a number of superb and I am very much looking Headmaster
concerts and activities by all year forward to moving into 2019 (and

Bursar’s Welcome



work here and in the interactions lives and the environment in
between staff and pupils. which children learn can have a
major impact on teaching and
I have experienced some of the learning.
diversity of this area with trips to
the desert, hikes in the mountains I have been getting to know the
and a boat trip. I am looking school, staff and pupils and the
forward to getting to know more plans for the future are to
Having only recently arrived in about the culture and landscape enhance the learning and
Jeddah, I have been overwhelmed of this beautiful country. teaching environment for all the
by the kind and welcoming pupils and staff to ensure Jeddah
people I have met, both at school I have over eight years’ Prep and Grammar School
and in the wider community. experience working in Grammar continues to educate to the high
Leaving my family and friends and independent schools in both standards you expect and young
behind was a difficult decision England and Scotland, initially as people deserve.
but the transition has been made Assistant Bursar and for the last
much easier by the kindness and five years as Bursar. Working in If you would like to meet with
the family friendly feel of Jeddah both the facilities and finance me please make an appointment
Prep and Grammar. It was one of sectors prior to my entry into the via School Reception.
the main reasons I decided to education sector gave me a good
work at this school. This positive grounding for the role of Bursar. I Mrs Anne Shehan
ethos is evident in all those who believe education can change JPGS Bursar





Breast & Prostrate Cancer Awareness Day


its prevention, and treatment. treatment. A mammogram is the
Freebies for all the attendees most effective and successful way
were then distributed at break to diagnose breast cancer.
time. We express our moral support for
women with breast cancer and
Breast Cancer is the most continue to spread the
common cancer in women. importance of cancer awareness
Symptoms may include a change within our school premises and
in breast size, dimpling, flaking outside the community.
or thickening of the breast skin,
rash or discharge, swelling of the
upper arm and armpit and
In honor of the very special redness of the skin. Women can
month for Breast Cancer reduce their risk of developing
Awareness, JPGS held its “Beauty breast cancer by the following;
and Bravery” Empowering maintaining a healthy weight and
Women Against Breast Cancer exercising, avoiding cigarette and
event at the fountain square area, alcoholic drinks, healthy eating
on November 8, decorated with choices and lifestyle
pink ribbons, banners and modification.
balloons, school faculty and staff
wore their ribbons and students Women can perform a breast
from Grammar School were self-examination once a month.
distinctive wearing their blue and If cancer is detected at an earlier
pink clothing for the celebration stage, a woman is more likely to Sixth Form
to learn more about the disease, have a successful outcome after Head Team

2

United Nations Day Celebrations



treats from all around the world.
Unfortunately, heavy rains
disrupted the celebrations and
the safety of the children became
a priority and school closed
early.

Before pupils went home the
Prep School gathered together in
On Thursday, 1st November 2018 the hall to recognise everybody
JPGS celebrated United Nations and their country by
Day. Prep School pupils arrived participating in a mini parade
at school wearing their national along the stage. It was very clear
dress. The exceptional efforts of that the pupils had great pride in
the pupils to represent their their dress and their country,
country was astounding. The walking with purpose and
school was alive with colour and enjoying the attention as they
flare. Pupils also brought a plate represented themselves, their and we are able to successfully
of food from their country to families, and where they are learn as one school family. Our
share with their peers and let from. One can only be proud of pupils truly are global citizens.
them experience a small flavour our institution as our school
what their country has to offer. community is filled with families Mr Raymond Garnett
There were some really delicious from all across the globe Assistant Head of Prep School








Open


Skies




Reach for the Sky

Grammar School pupils from the different physical and sense of satisfaction seeing the
JPGS are once again contributing cognitive challenges that they happiness and joy that
to the success of therapeutic must navigate such as scoring developing a relationship with a
horse-riding for the disabled, baskets from horseback and powerfully animal gives to
organised by Lisa Robinson of finding their way to different youngsters who, due to their
the Open Skies Riding Stables. stations to spell out words. disabilities, have felt
Following an initial meeting at marginalised and relish this
school, over 20 volunteers Participation has also led to the opportunity to gain a sense of
attended the training session at development of close friendships control and pleasure that
the AL Asseel Stables in Jeddah between volunteers and riders interactions with volunteers and
before the volunteer sessions who look forward to their weekly horses bring.
started. meetings. It is a significant
commitment from our students On their behalf, we thank our
Pupils are engaged in preparing who sacrifice their Saturday volunteers for their
horses for riding, escorting afternoon every week to help out contributions.
children to the horses, leading with the programme. When
the horses around the paddock asked why they do it, volunteers
and supporting riders as they are quick to say that not only is it Mr Thomas Mcgarry
navigate the course, engaging in fun, but that there is a enormous Head of Sixth Form

3

JPGS Winter Shows



Winter Concert next week. They you for your support and
have worked hard and encouragement in all things
creatively throughout the term creative and musical in Jeddah
and as always, they are a joy to Prep and Grammar School.
work with, encouraging and
facilitating their Musical
journeys.


Children in both Grammar and
Prep have performed at a
The Music Department have had number of occasions this term,
a busy and productive term, including the Remembrance
welcoming a new Grammar Service and assembly, Saudi
Music teacher, Miss Langley Day celebrations and
who has made a huge impact on International Day. The Prep
the music teaching in the Choir have worked hard to
Grammar School culminating in perfect their individual items
a delightful Winter Concert and I hope will be joined by
attended and enjoyed by many further members next term,
and showcasing the talents and when future performances are
potential of the students. planned.


The Prep School have used their I am truly excited by the Mrs Denise Hamer and
voices like angels this term, development of the Music Ms Jessica Langley
which will be reflected in their Department and can only thank Music Department








JPGS Counsellor place in many different ways in Please feel free to email her
regarding any concerns or
order to meet the different needs.
The counselling programme queries.
provides a number of services
for you and for your child, which She suggests links for some tips
are to facilitate your relationship
individual counselling for pupils with your child and to generate
about specific topics where they positive emotions.
can be referred by teachers,
parents, or by themselves, group https://www.psychologytoday.co
counselling for pupils who share m/intl/blog/peaceful-parents-hap
similar concerns to others py-kids/201706/10-habits-strengt
(coping with stresses, family hen-parent-child-relationship
changes, etc.), in classroom
Ms Raha Bogari has recently activities for social– emotional https://www.verywellfamily.com
joined Jeddah Prep and development topics (social skills, /habits-that-will-strengthen-your
Grammar School as a School problem solving skills, -parent-child-bond-620063
Counsellor. self-esteem, mindfulness, etc).
Her responsibilities are to
provide emotional support and Parenting workshops (dates will
to promote the personal, and be announced), meeting parents Ms Raha Bogari
social development for all pupils. individually to discuss specific JPGS School Counsellor
concerns and provide useful Email: [email protected]
Ms Raha’s involvement takes resources and guidance.


4

JPGS


Model United

Nations Day


Club


The Model United Nations is an
academic simulation of the
United Nations where pupils in world affairs. Following this, a Congratulations must go to
play the role of delegates from group of 25 delegates from JPGS Ahmad Awais who was awarded
different countries and attempt to attended the American Honourable Mention and Nadine
solve real world issues. The club International School of Jeddah Maarouff who was
goes from strength to strength MUN conference. Our pupils awarded Best Delegate which
with a great deal of interest from ranged in ages from Year 9 to 13 reflects the participation and
the student community. This representing the countries of commitment of the JPGS
perhaps is because of the Italy, Japan, Brazil and Ethiopia. delegation as a whole.
excellent example given by our Imran Binzagr, Lamar Zafer and
Sixth Form student trainers as Hamza Dejani in particular
they share their knowledge and Chaired meetings, effectively
skills with the lower years. managing the lively debates.

A wonderful assembly was Our pupils were a credit to JPGS
organised and performed by and threw themselves
members of the club, who wholeheartedly into the activity.
celebrated United Nations day Thanks also goes to the Mr Ian
and informed the school Ross and the AISJ MUN team Mr Michael Kidman
community of its important role who hosted a memorable event. MUN Director




Year 1 Pirate Splash Party!



maps, pirate ships and pirate parent’s cooperation in making
hooks, with interesting facts they our Pirate party a feast for the
remembered about their learning. eyes, as well as our tummies! We
look forward to many more fun
During the splash party, the activities this year!
children imagined they were
naughty pirates as we asked
them to walk the plank. Once
they all jumped in, they searched
under the water for hidden
treasure. The Captains of Year 1
were so pleased with our
treasure! Later, the Year 1 Pirates
fought each other with water
balloon cannon balls. Finally,
Year 1 ended their first half term after all that fun we cooled off
of learning about Pirates with a with an ice cream.
SPLASH! It was a wonderful half
term learning about what pirates The next day was a Pirate
wear, eat and the places they Costume day and children
travelled to. The children brought fascinating pirate dishes
completed amazing projects at to share with their friends. The Mrs Saira Ali
home, ranging from treasure teachers really appreciated the Head of Year 1

5

Remembrance Day


at JPGS



Remembrance Day at JPGS was a
day of unity, respect and
recollection. The School had been
gearing up for the day with
rehearsals, artwork and history
lessons reinforcing the message
behind Remembrance Day. Isra Attari and Manal Ahmed Special thanks to pupils for their
gave readings with a poem and great contributions leading up to
The JPGS Remembrance Day WW1 letter from the trenches and throughout the day:
Assembly started at 10.30 AM on respectively. Overall, a truly
the 11 day of the 11 Month, 100 inspiring, dutiful and busy day GRAMMAR
th
th
years after the end of World War for the staff and pupils of JPGS Manal Ahmed
1. Mr Bedford started off with an starting from early in the Abdulrahman Moumena
introduction to the origins of morning with the Head Boy Isra Attari
Remembrance Day and how it is Abdulrahman Moumena, Head Mohammad Nedjadi
still remembered today with a Girl, Manal Ahmed and the Evangeline Bedford
talk on the events of WW1 by Mr Headmaster heading off to Daniela Langdon
Mahmood and by Mr Mason. perform a reading of a WW1 Haniyya Siddiqi
letter in front of diplomatic Hadi Faisal
Sarah Al Saleh played some officials from Germany, Italy, Rema Khuddro
compelling pieces on the piano France and Britain followed by Ahmed Awais
throughout the course of the the JPGS Remembrance Day
Assembly. Assembly. PREP (Year 6 pupils)
Yasmine Usher
Pupils participated from both A big thank you to all involved: Ayla Iqbal
Grammar and Prep School Mrs Neate, Mr Garnett, Lejane Khuddro
further reinforcing the message Mrs Hamer, Mrs Master, Soona Osman
of unity and cooperation Mr Shea, Mrs Sumner, Mrs
encompassed by Remembrance Etheridge, Mr Mahmood, Mr
Day. Prep School had several Shahzad, Mrs Sharifi, Ms
performances from readings by Langley, Mrs Ayaad, Mr Eric Mason
Year 2 through to Poems by Year Mr Junaid and Ms Layali. Teacher of History
3 and a truly inspirational song Key Stage 3 Coordinator
by the whole of Prep at the end of Enrichment Coordinator
Assembly.






























6

Prep School Field Trips




was made up of a few different Street. Activities included a hectic
activities. keep fit session with the centre's
The children were greeted by the Zumba teacher and a talk and
tour guide and seated in an air demonstration on how best to
conditioned tent where snacks look after our teeth. Other
and drinks were served. After the activities included painting a
short little rest and toilet break self-expressive piece onto canvas
the children started their tour by and some clay modelling. The
visiting the stables where they children had a wonderful time
saw Arabian Horses. One in and after a healthy meal returned
particular was a white Arabian to school.
horse that was a show winner.
The tour went on for a few hours
where the children saw various
different animals in their habitats.

After the tour the children went
back to the tent and saw a horse
show. They had the opportunity
to handle a little lamb, tortoise
The Year 1 children visited and parrot. Once all the children
Bahrah Desert this term. We had had done this they were served
a long journey to reach the desert lunch. There was a BBQ lunch
but we enjoyed spotting camels served which had chicken, lamb,
along the way. The children were rice, and humuous.
so excited to finally see a camel
up close after learning about It was an eventful trip and we all
them all term. They saw a 2-week have fond memories of this day.
old baby camel that was very
nervous to see us. The guide The Year 6 pupils went to the
showed us how to milk a camel desert nearly Dhabaan for their
and we noticed the camel milk Local Cultural Studies trip where
was frothy. We were told that they were able to take part in
camel milk does not have fat and various activities including team
is very healthy. The desert was building and competitions
hot, sandy and we saw true organized by professional staff.
desert life. The Year 1 children They also explored the beauty of
decided they didn't want to live the desert by taking a buggy ride.
in the desert as life without The trip gave them an
electricity is no fun for them! opportunity to get close to the
nature and understand the
culture of Saudi Arabia in a real
environment.
The Year 3’s went to Valley Farm
as part of their LCS trip which is
an hour away from school. The
journey was very scenic and we
saw lots of Camels and
mountains and valleys on the
way. The children were very
excited when we arrived at the Monday 24th November and
Farm. There were horses Tuesday 25th November saw the
exercising and carrying out drills Year 4's enjoy a wonderful time at
for the show later on. The day the Wellness Centre on Sari

7

Go Wolves! Trompetter is working hard

alongside Mr Lowe & coach
Abdullah to ready herself and her
team for the regionals and
JPGS and our ongoing up-coming nationals. The swim
partnership with Juventus meet at JPGS saw the return of the
Academy are pleased to developing squad to competition
announce that the new football thanks to the hard work of Mr
field is due to be laid over the Sharifi and his assistant Mrs Lutfi.
winter vacation. This will be an The first swim meet at JPGS was a
amazing opportunity for our great success thanks to all the
students and Juventus Academy effort of firstly the swimmers
JPGS wolves have continued there players. themselves, the volunteers and
successful sporting streak with Mohammed and his team. I
the U14 boys SAIKAC volleyball would like to thank everyone at
1st place Gold at DHS. The U14 JPGS for their support this term
girls just missed with an amazing and also the parents for their
SAIKAC silver 2nd place at BISJ. patience, understanding and
The staff football team had a very support.
tense football game against the
U19 boys football team, who won
4-3. Good luck to all the students
who will be taking part in RSAC,
SAIKAC and BSME next term.


The Piranhas have completed
their first term of swimming here
at JPGS improving their times
respectfully. They have competed
in 4 swim meets at BISJ and 1 so
far here at JPGS. The captain Ella Sports Team of JPGS




The next Half Term at JPGS…




January 2019 February 2019




Sunday 6 Start of Term Sun 3 to Thurs 14 Year 11 to Year 13 Mock Exams
Thursday 10 Sports Day Grammar School Tuesday 5 Year 7 and Year 10 Parent Teacher
Monday 14 Sports Day (Nursery, Reception, Year 1—2 Conference 2
Tuesday 15 Sports Day (Year 3 and 4) Wednesday 6 Year 8 and Year 9 Parent Teacher
Thursday 17 Sports Day (Year 5 and 6) Conference 2
Thurs 24 to Fri 25 U19 Cricket (DHA) Friday 15 U14 Football (Boys—TWA, Girls—BISI)
Thurs 24 to Sat 26 BSME and U13 Games (Dubai, UAE) Friday 15 U16 Basketball (Boys—TWA, Girls—BISI)
Friday 25 U14, U16 Netball



Half-Term Holiday
School Closed 15 to 23 February




Jeddah Prep and
Grammar School

Tel: +966 (12) 654 2354 Email: [email protected]
8