Principal’s Desk Update – August 2024
- 8 August 2024
Dear Parents
As we transition from the warmth of summer to the crispness of fall, I am excited to share some updates on the vibrant activities and achievements within our school community.
Early Learning Highlights:
Our youngest learners continue to amaze us with their enthusiasm and growth. Recent field trips to the zoo and Biodiversity Park provided them with a wonderful opportunity to explore nature and wildlife, deepening their understanding of the world. Their curiosity and joy were truly a pleasure to see.
Learning Beyond the Classroom:
Grade 2 students recently visited the Fire Station, where they gained valuable insights and learned important safety skills. This hands-on experience was both informative and empowering, enriching their understanding of how to handle various situations effectively.
The field trip to the Anatomy Museum at Andhra Medical College for CBSE Grade 10 and 11 students was an enriching experience. It offered a unique chance to deepen their understanding of human anatomy with hands-on exhibits and detailed displays that enhanced their classroom learning. The students were highly engaged, showing great curiosity and interest in the anatomical models and specimens.
Investiture Ceremony:
We recently celebrated our new student leaders at the Investiture Ceremony. Their formal appointment marks the beginning of their role in representing their peers. We look forward to seeing their leadership make a positive impact on our school community.
Annual Prize Day- academic excellence awards:
Our Annual Prize Day was a tremendous success, honouring the outstanding academic achievements of our students for the 2023-2024 year. From medals to trophies, the event celebrated their hard work and dedication with great pride.
Sports & Games:
I’m happy to announce that our students won their first match in the Cricket tournament at Timpany School, demonstrating impressive teamwork and determination. We have also commenced our Interhouse sports matches in Football, Yoga, and Taekwondo, encouraging a spirit of healthy competition. Other sports matches will be conducted soon.
TOK Exhibition:
Our IBDP students recently participated in the ‘Ekatvam’ exhibition, where they presented diverse perspectives and deep insights. This event showcased their intellectual growth and explorations.
NAE Social Impact Project Grant:
A recent assembly focused on our ongoing NAE Social Impact Projects grant, highlighting the “Samatva Siddhi” initiative. During this event, Vicky Sparks, Social Impact Programme Manager from NAE Headquarters London, visited our school to interact with students and the community about the project’s goals and impact. It was inspiring to see our students and staff actively engage in discussions about these critical social issues and present their thoughtful insights.
National Mental Health Awareness Day
This week, our Grades 11 and 12 psychology students have truly excelled by spearheading a powerful campaign to raise mental health awareness throughout our school. Their dedication and efforts have made a remarkable impact on our community!
Let’s keep supporting and uplifting one another. Mental health is a continual process, not a fixed endpoint. It’s about the daily practices of self-compassion and resilience.”
Strengthening Education Together:
The Oakridge Parent Partnership continues to be a valuable forum for parents, educators, and the school community to collaborate on enhancing student success and well-being.
Upcoming Events:
Goal Setting Process: We have begun the goal-setting process to help students set and achieve both personal and academic milestones.
Internships and Leadership Camp: Exciting opportunities await our Grade 12 students in September and October, including internships and a leadership camp designed to enhance their skills and prepare them for the future.
Examinations: Summative Assessments for Grade 10 and 12 students (CBSE & IGCSE) will commence in August. Please join me in wishing them the best of luck as they demonstrate their learning and progress.
Inter-House Competitions: We are excited about the upcoming Inter-House Competitions, which will bring together students from all houses to showcase their skills, creativity, and teamwork.
Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community. Together, we are dedicated to nurturing and inspiring each student to reach their fullest potential.
Warm regards
Shaila Bhamidipati
Principal
Oakridge International School, Visakhapatnam