Metropole News
Bulletin #02 17-18 | GEMS Metropole School, Motor City
Metropole Focus - Innovation Practices
On October 25th, before half-term, the school proudly presented it's first Metropole Focus. Metropole Focus consists of a summary of topics from the School Improvement Plan focussing on the outcome of our last school inspection.
As displayed in the short video below, we will be covering each of the eight areas including:
- Student progress;
- Using assessment to effectively plan;
- Review of school leadership;
- Analytics of student results;
- Introducing the Governing Body and the support structures offered to the school;
- The Moral Education programme;
- National Properties and the National Agenda; and
- Innovation and innovative practices.
The first Metropole Focus looked at Innovation Practices and the design thinking process. This presentation will be available in the next newsletter.
Housekeeping Items
Foundation Stage Dismissal
After several weeks of reviewing the current flow of human traffic around the school after Foundation Stage dismissal, I would like to address the chaos, noise and mess caused by some students dismissed at 12:30 and waiting in school reception. A number of our administration staff have spoken to students and parents, however there appears to be a lack of understanding that we are part of a work environment not a play area and certainly not a school dining area. Please be reminded that if you wish to wait with your child until their sibling is dismissed from class, please ensure you take full care of your younger child whilst in the school reception.
I have recently noticed a number of parents and visitors not standing still during the playing of the national Anthem of the United Arab Emirates. A quick reminder that all members of the school community and visitors alike must stand still and respectfully for the duration of the national Anthem. Thank you.
Primary School Camps
Over the past few weeks and for some weeks yet to come, we have been holding school camps for student in the Primary School. I have been privileged to catch up with some of our teachers and students recently at the camp site. I have to say that these camps are truly an extension of the classroom. It allows a greater understanding and further develops bonds and relationships between teacher and student.
One of our students, Isha, in Year 5A recently said ... "I really liked camp because in Year 3 and 4 we did the low ropes but now we did the high ropes! We swam in the mangroves, saw turtles and also sea snakes. The cabins were so cosy and I had a great time with my friends".
Thank you Isha.
Dubai Student Wellbeing Census | Message from the KHDA
KHDA and the schools of Dubai are working to support and improve the wellbeing, happiness and quality of life of students in our schools. We recognise that supporting and improving the wellbeing of our students will lead to students being able to achieve their full potential.
This is supported by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, reflecting that :
"We will seek to create a society where our people's happiness is paramount, by
sustaining an environment in which they can truly flourish."
All students from Year 7 to Year 10 in Dubai private schools will be taking part in the Dubai Student Wellbeing Census in November and December 2017. Some schools will also have their Year 6 student participate in the census.
The main aim for the census is to find out how students feel and think about their own wellbeing, happiness, quality of life and engagement. Students will complete the census online at school. The census is not a test and there are no right or wrong answers. All responses will be kept confidential and no one at KHDA or the school will use the results to identify individuals.
The census asks students about their:
- Social and emotional wellbeing/happiness;
- School relationships and engagement; and
- Physical health, lifestyle and after school activities.
The participation of each student will assist the government and schools to develop programmes and activities that aim to improve student wellbeing. Schools will receive a report in early 2018 about the overall happiness and wellbeing of their students, as well as overall results for all students in Dubai.
If you do not want your child to take part in this census, please let your class teacher know.
Further information about the Dubai Student Wellbeing Census is available by visiting the following website - https://www.khda.gov.ae/en/dswc
For further questions or concerns, please email wellbeingcensus@khda.gov.ae or call 04 364 0000
UAE Seatbelt Law: Instant fines for not buckling up ...
GEMS Rewards
GEMS Education is delighted to introduce GEMS Rewards, an exclusive programme for our community of students, parents & staff. GEMS families can now explore cashback opportunities and enjoy incredible savings and discounts across various experiences.
HOW TO USE THE GEMS REWARDS APP
Step 1
You will receive an email with your Username and Email for registration.
Step 2
Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and register with the Username and Email you received.
Step 3
Browse through an extensive list of deals and discounts across the UAE.
Step 4
Redeem your selected offers and start saving!
Please see the video below for further information.
Teacher of the Month - September
"An extremely hard-working teacher who goes above and beyond every day."
"I don't think I have ever seen someone work harder. The kids have a huge respect for her."
"She is possibly one of the brightest and happiest people I have ever had the fortune to meet."
"She is such a calming voice of reason. She has this innate ability to reassure you that there is no such thing as a stupid question."
Mariamma Varkey Awards
“ Rachel is a very dedicated teacher who has high expectations of the children in her class. She nurtures and challenges children to reach their true potential, while instilling independence and pride in their learning. She will go out of her way to make the conditions right for every c hild in her class”.
“Rachel is a constantly outstanding and innovative teacher. She is creative and passionate about inspiring students and continually seeks out better ways of facilitating this. She will always go ‘the extra mile’’ and has the ability to motivate not only her students but also colleagues around her."
Lanyards & Non-Negotiables
As you have probably noticed, we not have a list of 10 Non-Negotiables positioned in 4 main areas of school. The non-negotiables are the responsibility of all students, teachers and parents. I therefore appreciate your assistance in following these guidelines.
We will continue to concentrate on each of these at different times of the year.