Band Concert Another great event in the PAC last Thursday. Our students performed many different genres and complex pieces beautifully. Congratulations to Ms Mann in getting our students to such a high level of performance. To our student musicians, thank you for entertaining us! ✨🎄The Christmas Village ✨🎄 What another incredible PTA event. The passion and dedication that went into making this happen was exceptional. A wonderful community event to wrap up the semester. A huge thank you to the PTA for putting this together. ELC and KG visit to the Director’s house for a Christmas story and sing-song …last Friday “Swim/Boot Bags”
Each student was given an 51³Ô¹ÏÍøºÚÁÏ bag today as a gift. We hope they all use and enjoy them. Temporary Closure of the PAC - FYI from Facilities We would like to inform you that the lobby and seating areas of the PAC will be temporarily unavailable due to essential repairs and maintenance works. These works are scheduled to begin on January 15, 2024 and are expected to be completed by March 10, 2025. Last Day Tomorrow: Friday 20 December . There is a Whole School Assembly In the Covered Court -all welcome at 11.30am. School finishes at noon. 2025 Monday 20 January New Families Orientation Tuesday 21 January Second Semester Commences Monday 27 January CCA Season 3 begins. Wishing all our families a wonderful festive season with family and friends. Be safe and enjoy precious time with loved ones. Happy Holidays! Dear 51³Ô¹ÏÍøºÚÁÏ Community,
As we wrap up another amazing year, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to each of you for making the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøºÚÁÏ Christmas Village such a joyful event! The vibrant spirit, laughter, and togetherness truly made it the perfect way to close out 2024. A special thank you goes to 'Santa' Rob Tate, who was absolutely brilliant! He brought so much magic to the day with his warmth, humor, and endless patience as he posed for over 100 photos! We would also like to thank the choir for filling the air with festive carols, all the vendors for their fantastic offerings, and the amazing volunteers who organised and manned the stations with energy and enthusiasm. Your contributions ensured the event ran seamlessly and was enjoyed by all. This year has been packed with incredible community moments--Back to School Picnic, WorldFest, PTA Ball, Easter Celebrations, Trunk or Treat, Poetry Competition, Teacher Appreciation Week, Prom, PinkTober, Hidden Gems Bus Tour, New Families Orientation, the Family Ambassador Programme, and so much more! These events have truly showcased the heart and spirit of our 51³Ô¹ÏÍøºÚÁÏ community. None of this would have been possible without your enthusiasm, support, and participation. Whether you volunteered, contributed your talents, or simply joined in to celebrate, you’ve been an essential part of making this year so special. As we head into the holiday season, we wish you a joyful and restful Christmas filled with love, laughter, and time with family. May the holidays bring peace and renewal as we look forward to an exciting 2025 together. See you in the new year! Warm regards on behalf of the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøºÚÁÏ PTA, Fungai Sandamu-Güldemann During November, the JAWS CCA students organized a school-wide “Giving Drive” challenge, encouraging classes and pods to make monetary donations toward a good cause: supporting animal shelters in Lusaka. This amazing initiative was well-supported across the school, with Primary raising a total of K13,647 and Secondary contributing K5,189.50. Together with the funds raised at the Friday Market bake sale, the grand total amounted to Overall Total: 18,836.5
JAWS would like to thank all the students, teachers, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøºÚÁÏ staff, and parents for their incredible support of this fundraising initiative. Yesterday, the JAWS CCA students donated two K7,000 Shoprite gift cards to AARC and LAWS, respectively. A special thank you to Francesco’s Pizzeria, Zambean, and The Villagers for their sponsorship and prizes during this drive. Thank you to everyone for supporting animal welfare efforts in Lusaka! This year the school has officially started a Student Run Newspaper, called The Spotted Scoop. The Spotted Scoop is a team of primary and secondary students to share school news, various articles, art and much more. We hope you enjoy of The Spotted Scoop and we look forward to sharing the next one in Quarter 3 of the school year.
Dear Primary School Families,
I hope this message finds you well. It’s hard to believe we have reached the end of our first term and are now preparing to embark on a well-deserved holiday break. This week, we were treated to an extraordinary showcase of curiosity, creativity, and collaboration during the Grade 3 Celebration of Learning. After weeks of inquiry, research, planning, and designing their own sustainable cities, the Grade 3 students were thrilled to share their learning journey with parents. Through their engaging presentations, they confidently explained the systems and services communities need to function effectively, highlighting the importance of interdependence. Their thoughtful perspectives on sustainable urban design emphasized the value of green spaces, environmental conservation, and innovative solutions to meet the needs of both people and the planet. It was inspiring to witness their enthusiasm and understanding as they connected their learning to real-world challenges and possibilities! On Friday, your child(ren)’s progress report—along with MAP results for students in Grades 3-5—will be available on Toddle, our new student learning platform that has replaced ManageBac. Please note that if your child attended fewer than 20 days during this reporting period, they will not receive a report card. If you experience any issues signing into Toddle or accessing the progress report, please reach out to Ms. Khetiwe in the Primary Office for assistance at [email protected]. A reminder that Friday is a half-day. Students will be dismissed at 12:00 p.m., following our whole school assembly at 11:30 a.m. on the covered court. Families are warmly invited to join us for this event. Looking Ahead: We are excited to invite you to our first parent discussion on a topic that impacts all of us: "Managing Screen Time for Primary-Aged Children" This Primary Principals' Parent Coffee Session on Tuesday, 28 January in the Pavilion from 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. will provide an opportunity for parents to come together, share experiences, and exchange practical tips and strategies to encourage healthier screen habits for our children. Caitlin Christensen, our Primary School Counselor, will join us to facilitate this session. With so much of childhood influenced by screens, this is a chance to explore creative ways to foster balance and support each other. Whether you’ve found strategies that work well in your home or are looking for fresh ideas, we’d love to have your input and participation. Together, we can create a supportive community for our children’s wellbeing. If you are going to attend, please RSVP to Khetiwe Hamainza, the primary school administrative assistant, at [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you there! As we close the term, I’d like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude:
Warm regards, Joe Buscemi Primary School Principal The College of William and Mary, VA Isabel applied to The College of William and Mary through its Early Decision policy as a clear FIRST-CHOICE. She learned recently that she has been accepted to the college’s Bachelor of Arts program majoring in Chinese Language and Culture and International Relations. The growing importance of China in the world scene means increasing career opportunities for those who choose Chinese as a major. This Chinese Language and Culture major emphasizes strong language training and seeks to instill in students a comprehensive and in-depth knowledge about Chinese culture and literature. Her joint major in International Relations will be an asset to future career options as it is truly interdisciplinary, blending the study of government, economics, sociology, and history through teaching, research, language and study abroad. Founded in 1693, William & Mary is a public research university located in Williamsburg and is the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. It is renowned for its exceptional academics, rich history, and vibrant campus life. William & Mary prides itself on its robust tradition of student self-governance, extensive research opportunities, and commitment to public service, preparing students to become engaged global citizens and leaders in their respective fields. wm.edu Lynn University, FL This week, Hellary learned that she has been accepted to her FIRST-CHOICE school, Lynn University, to study for the Bachelor of Science in Marketing. Her admissions officer wrote: “I had the pleasure of reviewing your application recently. I love how your equestrian achievements have helped balance out academic pressures and, in the process, have led you on a path toward growth as a person. With its block schedule and collaborative, project-based approach to learning, I believe Lynn is a place where the perfect balance can be found between academics and living life, and I’m sure it will be the perfect “home-away-from-home” for you. Besides, Wellington, an equestrian’s paradise, is only 40 minutes away!”. Lynn University, located in Boca Raton is a dynamic and innovative private institution known for its personalized education, cutting-edge technology, and global perspective. With a student body representing nearly 100 countries, Lynn emphasizes cultural diversity and inclusivity Lynn's small class sizes foster close faculty-student relationships, while its vibrant campus life, NCAA Division II athletics, and community-oriented programs provide a holistic college experience. The university’s focus on experiential learning and real-world application equips students to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy. lynn.edu Lynn University Merit Scholarship In recognition of her achievements both academically and as an athlete, Hellary has been awarded a significant scholarship to attend Lynn University. Recently, Herman was notified that he had been accepted to three universities in the United States. University of Kansas, KS Herman can choose to attend the University of Kansas’ Business School in its Pre-Professional Business program. The University of Kansas, often referred to as KU, is a public research university located in Lawrence. Established in 1866, KU is the largest and most comprehensive university in the state, offering over 370 degree programs across 14 schools and colleges. The university is recognized for its exceptional academics, research initiatives, and vibrant campus life. KU's main campus in Lawrence is known for its picturesque setting, with Gothic-style architecture and lush green spaces. The university is particularly renowned for its strengths in the natural sciences, engineering, and social sciences, housing numerous nationally ranked programs. KU also boasts a strong reputation in the arts, with highly acclaimed programs in visual arts, music, and theater. Beyond the classroom, KU students enjoy a diverse array of student organizations, intramural sports, and cultural events, fostering a dynamic and engaging campus community. ku.edu Kansas State University, KS At Kansas State University (K-State), Herman can study Business Administration. K-State is a public research university located in Manhattan, Kansas. Established in 1863, K-State is the oldest public university in the state and one of the nation's leading land-grant institutions, focused on education, research, and public service. With over 22,000 students, the university offers more than 250 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its 8 colleges and schools. K-State also offers excellent programs in the humanities, social sciences, and business, preparing students for successful careers in a wide range of industries. The university's vibrant campus life features over 450 student organizations, world-class athletic teams, and a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities, fostering a well-rounded educational experience for its diverse student body. k-state.edu University of Missouri, MO Herman has also been accepted to attend the Trulaske College of Business at the University of Missouri, majoring in International Business. The University of Missouri (Mizzou or MU), located in Columbia is the flagship institution of the University of Missouri System. Founded in 1839, it holds the distinction of being the first public university established west of the Mississippi River. Mizzou offers more than 300 degree programs across 13 schools and colleges, with strengths in journalism, agriculture, business, engineering, and health sciences. The 1,262-acre campus is known for its historic architecture and provides state-of-the-art facilities for learning, research, and recreation. Its diverse and inclusive environment attracts students from all 50 states and over 100 countries, offering them a well-rounded and transformative education. missouri.edu ESTADE, Ramon Llull University, Spain Following a rigorous application and selection process and an intensive interview, Adam has learned that he has been accepted to attend ESTADE Business School to study for the Bachelor in Transformational Leadership and Social Impact. (BITLASI) is an multidisciplinary learning journey: business, humanities and technology for Social Impact. This is Adam’s FIRST-CHOICE university. The pioneering degree is designed for individuals who are committed to creating new business models that have a positive global impact. This program, hosted at the Sant Cugat campus in Barcelona, equips students with a comprehensive skill set encompassing management expertise, entrepreneurial acumen, technological knowledge, humanistic understanding, and innovation. These competencies, combined with the necessary skills and knowledge to establish or join companies that drive transformative change, make this program unique. Notably, the curriculum includes international visits to Europe and Asia, as well as professional internships, thereby creating an exceptional and unparalleled educational experience. estade.edu Durham University, UK This week, Adam also learned that he has been accepted to study for the Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Business and Management at Durham University Business School. Durham University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United Kingdom, tracing its roots back to 1832. Located in the historic city of Durham, the university is renowned for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Durham Cathedral and Castle, which are both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Durham is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and the world, known for the exceptional quality of its research and teaching across a wide range of academic disciplines. The university's collegiate system is a unique aspect of the Durham experience, with students belonging to one of 16 colleges, each with its own distinct character and traditions. These colleges provide a close-knit community for students, fostering a vibrant social life and numerous extracurricular activities. Durham is particularly acclaimed for its strong performance in the humanities and social sciences. Durham is an international triple-accredited business school. Founded in 1965, it is one of the UK's longest established business schools. durham.ac.uk Loyola Marymount University, CA Anais’ application to attend Loyola Marymount University has been accepted. If she attends, she will major in Elementary Education. Loyola Marymount University (LMU) is a private, Jesuit and Marymount research university located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1911, LMU is one of the largest Catholic universities on the West Coast, with an enrollment of over 9,500 students. The university is renowned for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to educating the whole person - mind, body, and spirit. LMU's picturesque 142-acre campus, situated atop the bluffs overlooking Marina del Rey and Playa del Rey, provides a scenic backdrop for its diverse array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The university is particularly recognized for its schools of business, film and television, and engineering, which consistently rank among the best in the nation. LMU also offers exceptional programs in the liberal arts, sciences, and education, preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives. Beyond the classroom, students engage in a wide range of student organizations, service-learning opportunities, and Division I athletics, fostering a well-rounded college experience. lmu.edu Cardiff University, UK This week, Nkhosi received his first university acceptance. This was from Cardiff University to study for the Bachelor of Science (Econ) in International Relations. Cardiff University, located in Wales' capital city, is one of the UK's leading research universities and a member of the prestigious Russell Group. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation, Cardiff offers a vibrant and supportive learning environment. It is consistently ranked highly in student satisfaction and research quality. The university’s central location in Cardiff provides students with access to a dynamic city rich in culture, history, and entertainment, while also being surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Cardiff University prides itself on fostering a global community with a strong emphasis on international collaboration and student diversity. Cardiff University’s International Relations course provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics of global politics, governance, and diplomacy. It examines pressing issues such as conflict resolution, global security, international development, and the role of institutions like the United Nations. The programme integrates theoretical perspectives with real-world case studies to prepare students for careers in diplomacy, non-governmental organizations, international business, or academia. Additionally, the course offers options for specialization, enabling students to tailor their education to their specific interests in areas like environmental policy, human rights, or global economic systems. cardiff.ac.uk Thank you to our students and parents for a wonderful first semester! It has been inspiring to see our students step up, both inside and outside the classroom, through their leadership initiatives this semester. Compared to last year’s five student-led events in Semester 1, this year we’ve had an incredible total of 22 events. From active participation in councils, service groups, Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh, National Honor Society, Flex, and more, our students have truly been strengthening our community in meaningful ways.
Grade 12 reports were released yesterday, enabling our students to finalize their college and university applications. Reports for Grades 6–11 will be available through Toddle on January 27th. Please remember that these are progress reports, reflecting students’ development at this particular stage. The IB framework emphasizes Approaches to Learning (ATL) skill growth, encouraging continuous improvement. These reports provide a snapshot of students’ learning progress based on the evidence available, using a “best fit” assessment approach. (Refer to our for more details.) We’re also proud of our Grade 6–8 students for embracing our phone policy, keeping devices turned off and stored in lockers or bags during the school day. This practice supports their wellbeing and enhances ATL skill development. If you haven’t yet read, I highly recommend Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation for insights into the effects of technology on young people. We will continue engaging in these important discussions with our students and families, as partnership is key to helping initiatives like this be successful. As we wrap up this semester, we wish all our families a restful and joyful holiday break filled with quality time together. We look forward to welcoming our students back on Tuesday, January 21st! Happy Holidays, Fiona Moss (Secondary Principal) Seed Pod CraftsInstead of wasting the beautiful tree seed pods that have fallen around our campus, we have gathered them into a craft activity. Feel free to stop by the library to paint, glue on sequins or decorate one of the seed pods however you'd like. You can either take your craft home or leave it for us to put in the holiday hampers for staff. Our Second Silent Book ClubWe were a small group during this busy holiday season but we had electricity and enjoyed a blissful 75 minutes of quiet reading after we shared a little about our different books. Hope you can join us at our next meeting in February. Welcome to the Library!The library is pleased to open its doors to students and parents from:
7:00 until 16:00 Monday through Thursday 7:00 until 14:00 on Friday We are also open the first and third Saturday of every month from 9:00 until 12:00 (unless that falls on a public holiday). Our next weekend hours will be on January 4 and January 18. Please note that we will NOT be open on the third Saturday of December but will instead be open for the 2 Saturdays in January which occur during the school break. |
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The Leopard's Tale is our main medium to keep our families informed on such things as the day to day happenings on campus, after school activities, summaries of any arts and sports events, helpful resources, and important dates and reminders.
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