PATANA NEWS
Friday 19th January 2024 Volume 26 Issue 17
Creativity, Courage, Connection and the Primary Drama Curriculum By Sarah McCormack
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Also in this issue... FOBISIA Gymnastics 2023 Page 4 Outstanding Cambridge Learner Award Page 6 Services Updates Page 7 Fun Day Updates Page 8 Tiger Sports Council Page 11 Climbing Expedition Page 12 Benefits of a University Visit Page 14
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Bangkok Patana is a not-for-profit IB World School accredited by CIS Bangkok Patana School News
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Creativity, Courage, Connection and the Primary Drama Curriculum Sarah McCormack, Primary Principal
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ere at Bangkok Patana, our mission is clear: we are dedicated to empowering our students to reach their full potential. To me, that translates into fostering a deep passion for learning and growth, a mission I hope resonates with every member of our institution, including our educators and leaders. This year, I embarked on my own professional learning journey – the commencement of my National Professional Qualification for Executive Leadership, or NPQEL. In a unit centred around Ethical Leadership, we were challenged to reflect on our core values and how we embody them in our decision making and actions. Throughout my tenure in Headship, my guiding principles of creativity, courage, and connection have remained steadfast, serving as both my inspiration and moral compass. When asked to showcase their impact, I could not help but think of our create creativity strategic theme and the evolution of primary drama. This year marked a milestone as I proudly appointed Ms. Lexi Nicholson as our Primary School Drama Teacher. Her role signifies the first time we have had a drama specialist in the primary school, and we are already witnessing some remarkable learning and progress for our Key Stage 2 students.
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BENEFITS OF DRAMA Integrating Drama into Primary education offers tangible benefits for our studens at Bangkok Patana, as it helps: 1.
Build communication skills and gain confidence;
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Develop teamwork and respect for others;
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Spark creativity, pushing students to think differently and see things from different angles;
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Create a positive and inclusive learning, providing students with a richer and more rewarding educational experience.
KEY LEARNING Ms Lexi will be teaching predominately in Key Stage 2, with weekly Drama lessons for all students in Year 5 and Year 6. The goals of these lessons are to cultivate essential communication and collaboration skills in students through a diverse range of activities. The results of these learning endeavours will take centre
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stage with the Year 5 Poetry competition and the introduction of a novel learning experience — the Year 6 end-of-year musical. Our innovative Year 6 students are already deep into rehearsals for what promises to be an enormous burst of creativity: ‘Madagascar A Musical Adventure Jr,’ scheduled to grace the Rozamund Stuetzel Theatre in May. What Ms Lexi says: Drama is crucial for primary-age children because it serves as such a dynamic platform for the development of key skills. All Primary Drama lessons are centred around developing the 6Cs - confidence, communication, creativity, control, collaboration and concentration. These serve as the driving force behind various activities, aiming to equip students with essential skills applicable not only in an educational setting but also in various aspects of life. The focus is on fostering holistic development, ensuring that the skills students develop enhance personal growth and success well beyond the classroom. What the students say: This Monday morning, I visited the 5W Drama lesson, where students were engaged in an activity that brought three words to life from a list including crashed, surged, clambered, thrashed, dragging, swirled, blindly bright, flashing, and loomed. The goal was to enhance their storytelling abilities for an upcoming short performance for Year 2. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm, movement, and expression as everyone actively participated and observed attentively. When I asked Clay and Aiden about their expectations from the lessons, they shared that, “Drama is beneficial for developing skills we may need in the future, especially for business presentations.” They emphasised how Drama helps them hone stage skills, speak confidently, and overcome fear. Caera and Emily, who are part of 6P, shared their positive impressions of the new Drama lessons. They find the lessons to be lively, captivating and enjoyable. Moreover, they believe that these lessons contribute to building
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their confidence and serve as a stress reliever. Caera expressed both excitement and a hint of nervousness looking ahead to her first school play. Emily sees the upcoming Madagascar production as one of the highlights of her school experience thus far. The developments in the creative arts are having a big impact in the Primary School, and it is an exciting place to learn and teach. Serving as the Primary Principal is a tremendous honour, and I consider myself fortunate to be entrusted with the opportunity to shape the Primary provision in alignment with our guiding statements. Indeed, one of the most rewarding aspects is witnessing my own values of courage, creativity, and connection actively cultivated within our curricula and, I hope, embodied by our students.
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FOBISIA Gymnastics 2023 Coach George and Coach Wah
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huge congratulations to the team of gymnasts who attended FOBISIA Gymnastic 2023 in December. The event was held at British School Jakarta, Indonesia and Bangkok Patana showed up as an army of over 100 people! Forty-nine students attended with a team of five coaches, plus a whole host of family members. It was our first overseas FOBISIA for gymnastics and the gymnasts couldn’t have been better ambassadors for Bangkok Patana. Well done to the parents who took charge of the families in their Level, I know you made this a trip to remember. A particular well done to the Year 3 and new members of the team who hadn’t competed in a competition before, starting their gymnastics journeys with a bang by competing overseas.
ous awards for apparatus in addition to the highlights below. You can imagine the number of podium photos! However, it is important to recognise that the biggest achievements do not always come from winning medals. Our gymnasts showed outstanding sportsmanship to the other schools, being polite and grateful to judges and other members of staff. They failed, got back up and tried again, proving to themselves that they are resilient and that things do not always go perfectly! The gymnasts took on feedback about what they did well, and how they can improve next time. Most importantly, they came together as a community and supported one another, cheering on their peers and showing kindness to each other. This is what
Bangkok Patana took gymnasts to compete in WAG L2 - 4 and MAG Level 1 - 2, ranging from Year 3 to Year 7. *WAG - Women’s Artistic Gymnastics *MAG - Men’s Artistic Gymnastics The following schools took part in FOBISIA, representing countries from all over Asia: British School Jakarta Bangkok Patana School Bangkok Prep International School Dulwich College (Singapore) Kellett School Hong Kong Marlborough College Malaysia St. Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok Riverside United World College East, Singapore We celebrate a number of individual and team awards below which should be congratulated. There are numer-
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Individual/Team Panthira [Pan] Suthathikulchai WAG Level 2 Junior WAG Level 2 Senior Natchanan (Ging) Watakeyanon Alexandria [Alex] Rosa Tisha Dhanuwongkarnkar WAG Level 3 Junior Ellie Vergara WAG Level 3 Senior Ploynapas [Pam] Asawapiwat Paola Romei Lyla Fowler WAG Level 4 Senior Harry Short Oliver Unhola MAG Level 1 Junior Shang En [Sean] Lu Parker Salisbury MAG Level 1 Senior Thann Thamavaranukupt Pasutha [Billy] Howship Sahib Sachdev MAG Level 2 Senior
Award Overall Individual L2 Junior - 2nd Place Team Award – 2nd Place Team Award – 3rd Place Overall Individual L3 Junior – 1st Place Overall Individual L3 Junior – 2nd Place Overall Individual L3 Junior – 3rd Place Team Award – 1st Place Overall Individual L3 Senior – 2nd Place Team Award – 2nd Place Overall Individual L4 Junior – 1st Place Overall Individual L4 Junior – 2nd Place Overall Individual L4 Junior – 3rd Place Team Award – 3rd Place Overall Individual L1 Junior – 1st Place Overall Individual L1 Junior – 2nd Place Team Award – 1st Place Overall Individual L1 Senior – 1st Place Overall Individual L1 Senior – 2nd Place Team Award – 1st Place Overall Individual L2 Junior – 1st Place Overall Individual L2 Junior – 2nd Place Overall Individual L2 Senior – 2nd Place Team Award – 3rd Place
being part of the Gymnastics Academy is about and we couldn’t be prouder of them. Thank you to the coaching team both away in Jakarta and those back at school training. Also to the wider school community behind the scenes who worked tirelessly to make sure this trip was a huge success. Our gratitude goes to British School Jakarta for hosting. Looking forward to heading back to Jakarta for SEASAC 2024 in March, this time with the Senior Levels. For now, the hard graft continues…
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Outstanding Cambridge Learner Award Aazar Munir, (I)GCSE Examinations Leader
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big congratulations to our students who received top honours at the Cambridge Outstanding Learner Awards at the end of last term. These awards recognise students who achieved better than most of their peers in a Cambridge course. We are so proud of the following Bangkok Patana students: Qian Man Li (Diana) – Top in Thailand for IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language Sarah Yue Tong Wong – Top in Thailand for IGCSE Information & Communication Technology Saira Sachdev – Top in Thailand for IGCSE Physical Education Vachiravich Phantratanamongkol (Turbo) – Top in world for IGCSE Mathematics Xiang Jie Lim (XJ) – Top in World for IGCSE Mathematics Vachiravich Phantratanamongkol (Turbo), has this reflection to share: “As I reflect on receiving my “Top in the World” award for IGCSE Mathematics, I am genuinely overwhelmed and honoured by this prestigious recognition. Achieving this award was not a walk in the park for me. When I first entered the IGCSE Maths course, it became apparent that the curriculum was comprehensive. Its framework required me to apply combinations of theoretical concepts and analytical problem-solving skills. I had to work my way through assignments, past papers, as well as problems which never seemed to end: a sometimes confusing world of numbers and more numbers. In the end, it was all worth it. Above all, I have many people to extend my sincere gratitude to: those at Cambridge Assessment International Education, my family, friends and my teacher, Mr Lauffer. Without their unwavering support, I would not have been able to earn this award, which will inspire me in my future, preparing me for forthcoming challenges. Thank you all for being part of this extraordinary journey.”
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TRANSPORT CORNER - IMPORTANT UPDATES ON EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES (ECAS) Year 4 Residential Transport
Primary (Y1-6): ECAs end today. Secondary (Y7-13): ECAs will continue until Friday 2nd February.
• Monday of Residential Week: School transport to and from school as usual. No ECAs – 2:30 pm bus home.
Bus Arrangements after Regular ECAs
• Tuesday of Residential Week: Buses will be provided to school as normal. If you wish to bring your child to school Foundation Stage Students: Transport to & from school as using your transport, please CANCEL the bus in advance to normal. avoid delays to other users. Year 1 and 2 Students: Transport to and from school as nor• Friday of Residential Week: All school transport home mal. ECAs have finished, and all students will be on their default is canceled for students coming back from a Residential. If you bus home at 2:30 pm, except for specific programmes: wish your child to get a 2:30 school bus home, please contact • Tiger Kittens on Wednesday transport to book them a seat. •
Year-long Hip-Hop KS1 on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday
Year 5 Residential Transport
• Monday of Residential Week: School transport provided as normal. If you will be bringing your child to school, Year 3 Students: Transport to and from school as normal. please CANCEL the bus in advance to avoid unnecessary deECAs have finished, and all students will be on their default bus lays to other users. home at 2:30 pm, except for specific programs: • Thursday of Residential Week: All school transport • Home Language - Dutch Group Key Stage 2 home is canceled for students coming back from a Residential. If you wish your child to get a 2:30 school bus home, please • Tigersharks Swim Academy Year 3 and above contact transport to book them a seat. • Gymnastics Academy Team training • Friday of Residential Week: School transport to and • Football Academy – Key Stage 2 from school as usual. No ECAs – 2:30 pm bus home. • Golf Team Training - Key Stage 2 Year 6 Residential Transport • Tennis Academy – Key Stage 2 • Monday of Residential Week: School transport proBus Arrangement During Primary Residential Trip for vided as usual. If you will be bringing your child to school, Year 4- Year 6 please CANCEL the bus in advance to avoid unnecessary deDuring Primary Residential Trips (22nd- 26th Jan and 29th lays to other users. Jan – 2nd Feb), there will be no ECAs except for the following: • Friday of Residential Week: All school transport home • Home Language - Dutch Group Key Stage 2 is canceled for students coming back from a Residential. If you wish your child to get a 2:30 school bus home, please contact • Tigersharks Swim Academy Year 3 and above. transport to book them a seat. • Gymnastics Academy Team training. •
Year Long Ballet KS1 on Monday
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Tennis Academy – Key Stage 2
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Football Academy – Key Stage 2
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Golf Team Training, Key Stage 2
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Vex Robotics Beginners Club
Students not on residential who are in school will travel home on a 2:30 pm bus unless they have one of the above ECAs. During this week, the mix of children on each bus or the bus children travel on may change. You will only be contacted via email or SMS if it is necessary to amend your normal pick-up time in the morning.
Did you know? Our canteen not only serves tasty and diverse meals but also prioritizes food safety! Every year, our staff receives training in food sanitation and handling. Plus, the BMA conducts annual inspections, ensuring top-notch standards! Enjoy peace of mind with every delicious bite!
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PTG UPDATES
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PTG UPDATES
Check out the newest episode of the Patana POD!
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Tiger Sports Council- BPS vs ISB Softball Ana Bolakoso, Vice Captain
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n Thursday January 11th we welcomed the ISB Panthers to the Sports Complex for af friendly fixture. Our goal was to put into practice the skills we had been learning at training, including big hitting, fast base running and covering fly balls. The ISB team were well drilled and had several big hitters who challenged our outfield. They had been affected by some sickness and so some of the Tigers joined with the Panthers to ensure a successful match. It was good to see this positive cooperation to ensure the game could go ahead. 2. Maryam Limbada hit a home run on loaded bases, bringing home two other players with her. 3. Great connection between Leonor Hoppenbrouwers and Ella Hindle on 1st Base and the pitching mound, getting several easy outs. 4. Some excellent hitting from Napat (Kelli) Chua at key moments in the match, helping us to load up the bases when needed. The MVP for the match, nominated by Miss Allen was Tatsha Kuansongtham. Tatsha showed speed and courage in her base running and as a result helped us get home several times. Captain (Ella Hindle), reflected on the match afterwards… “ISB are always a threat with their big hitters, many of whom train for baseball and have excellent skills as a result. We used communication and collaboration in the field to restrict their base running and therefore control the match.”
For the first two or three innings the scores were relatively even with each team posting home runs at a steady rate. In the 4th innings, the momentum swung toward the Tigers and we got a good number of runners over the home plate and began to take a lead. Some highlights included: 1. Emily Jones taking a fantastic catch off an ISB flyball.
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Climbing Expedition: Chiang Mai L
ast week 22 students from Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 with a distinct interest in climbing had the fantastic opportunity to extend their passion and skills on a real rock face at one the premier climbing locations in Thailand - Mae On, Chiang Mai. On day 1: Students arrived in Chiang Mai in the evening and were met by our hosts and professional instructors from CMRCA (Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventures). The evening gave the opportunity to review climbing, belaying and bouldering skills at CMRCA’s bespoke climbing gym - Progression Vertical as well as team bonding. Day 2 was super exciting - all activities were conducted at the world renown climbing crag/rock face called “Crazy Horse” (termed as the rock formation at the top looks like a horses face..). There were many challenging climbing routes and all students enjoyed testing their skills and talents out - could they conquer the rock face and reach the top anchor?? Students also had fun learning to abseil and rappel - descending from a height down a rock face. There were certainly stunning views and beautiful rock formations throughout. In the evening the group camped in tents and enjoyed the different challenge of team camp cooking - some interesting recipes were concocted along with toasting marshmallows on a campfire. Day 3 really did present opportunities to really push comfort zones and build on confidence - a Tyrolean traverse and a free rappel - certainly a highlight for all. The day also saw more opportunities to attempt some of the toughest climbing routes on offer before returning to Bangkok - particular standouts were the Year 9’s - Jack, Poon and Pon. All 22 students gained so much from this experience not only in climbing but in personal growth great job team ! Huge thank you to our wonderful hosts CMRCA for their excellent guidance and professionalism. Special thanks to the accompanying staff - K’On, Coach Gee and Mr Rozario. If you are a student and enjoy climbing please do sign up for the climbing ECA with Coach Tao and Coach Gee. #WeLoveClimbing #PushYourComfortZone #CrazyHorseButtress Please follow IG= @bps_outdooreducation
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The Benefits of a University Visit Andrew Haughton, Careers and University Counsellor
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crucial part of deciding which university to study at is finding a good fit, and a great way to do this is by carrying out an in-person visit. CAMPUS VISITS ARE AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE UNIVERSITY APPLICATION PROCESS We regularly talk about “fit” at Bangkok Patana when discussing university lists. These are the factors that are important to the student and will allow them to thrive. Below are some things to consider when developing your university list: • Academics- Do they offer majors, minors, concentrations, electives, core curriculum, specialisations, co-operative opportunities, study abroad programmes that you are interested in? • Climate- To be happy do you need warm weather, easy access to skiing, four seasons, lots of sunshine? • Location- Do you want to be near a city, in the countryside, do you not mind? • Distance from home- How far from home are you willing to travel? • Institutional type- Public or private institution? Very big, mid-sized, small?
• Contact the university’s admissions website to get details of arranging an in-person visit. • Arrange to meet a professor, a sports coach or sit in on a lecture and check out the canteen. CATCHING UP WITH PATANA ALUMNI In November, I had the opportunity to visit 15 universities in Dublin and the UK and to catch up with several Patana alumni. It was a great chance to build relationships with admissions officers and faculty. Following on from my visit to Goldsmith’s University, one of their professors came into Patana to give our Visual Arts students a presentation on building an effective portfolio. The best tour guides are students and even better if they are Patana alumni. They can provide genuine insight into
• Parental priorities- Have early, open, regular discussions with your child about your expectations and budget. WHEN TO GO WHAT TO DO BEFORE YOU GO • Visit before your applications are due. That way you can be confident you’d be happy to attend the places to which you apply. • During Year 11 and particularly Year 12. • Visit on a weekday and ideally when students are not on their holidays or exam leave.
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tor in choosing where you will spend your next three years studying. Therefore, it is valuable for students to understand and get a feel for the atmosphere, working, and socializing with other students on campus. During the summer before I applied, I visited different universities while also exploring their respective cities. This experience helped me familiarise myself with the university campuses and the cities, which proved to be beneficial. I highly recommend also visiting the city to ensure it is a good fit for you, considering factors such as size, green spaces, public transport, and available accommodation. WHAT IF YOU CAN’T VISIT? • Many university websites have online virtual visits and tours.
what an institution is like from an academic, social, and practical perspective. Grad’23 student Kamolnisa (Gao) Kamalanavin was proud to show me around Imperial College London where she is loving studying Geology. Grad’20 students Garbiel Mattei and Joycelyn (Jo Jo) Intanate were in the midst of their Veterinary Science exams at the Royal Veterinary College Potters Bar campus. A very different feel to that of central London. I met with Grad20 Medical student Kenji Miyauchi who is currently on his intercalated year studying a Masters in Neuroscience. Kenji will be presenting to our aspiring medics later this year. I also bumped into some Grad20 students on a ski lift during the winter break: Sam Haughton (Product Design, Loughborough University), Anastase Borione and Twan Lertpun (both Economics at UBC Vancouver). Some of their top tips included: meet as many different people as you can during the first few weeks; know how to cook – it’s cheaper and makes you very popular with your peers; learn how to budget; and stay in university accommodation the first year. Grad’24 student Ilian Meyer has applied to study Geography/ Urban Planning in the UK and Netherlands. He says “ Visiting universities may just be the decisive fac19/01/2024
• Connect with the university admission officer. They will be able to answer questions about your individual circumstances and help you find out more about the college that interests you. Make sure to send a follow-up thank you email! • Meet with university representatives that visit Patana. • Carry out a deep dive into the university’s website.
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Updates from Secondary Music
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COMMUNITY
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