Moshi Campus News – 28 Feb 2021

Even with the short class week there was plenty going on.  It looks like the residential students had a good time on their trips over the weekend on the three different activities.

As you can see in the pictures below we had a crane on campus for part of the building project.  We took this opportunity to have each of the PYP classes visit the site and see the progress since their last visit.  I think they are more excited than the secondary students to see it finished.  They also took the opportunity to share with me their ideas for a building color scheme. Some were a bit wild I must say. From the conversations we had there are a few future architects and engineers in the group.

Next week we have two swim galas outside at the pool, please see the information listed. As well there are a few other events scattered through the newsletter that may catch your interest.  Happy reading.

Bob Cofer – Head of Campus

After review of the different possibilities and consultation through the board we are releasing the UWCEA school calendars for the school year 2021/2022 and 2022/2023.  The pdf versions will be available soon on the publications page on our website.

We feel the versions are the best compromise of the needs of our community and maximizes the learning for all student groups including the M5 and D2 who may take external exams. Given the long breaks in December/January and June/July we will be also offering day camps for younger students during part of those holidays.  We will work with the separate campus communities to determine needs and what is cost efficient to the parents.

Today, I am continuing with our plan to make our UWC East Africa Guiding Statements ‘visible,’ tangible’ and ‘referenced,’ across the different sections of our community. This week, I asked our incredible Educational Assistants to unpack our second Values statement, namely “A sense of belonging, acceptance and tolerance” and what this means to them.

“We recognise that we all come from many cultures. I am a Maasai and I have learnt so much about other cultures since I have been here. We have different experiences and beliefs but we respect this and that is what helps us live as a happy community.

Everyone is accepted and celebrated. We feel safe in the place where we are. I feel like I belong here. My opinion counts and nobody is left out of anything. Differences are not seen as a barrier but something to celebrate. I feel there is a real friendship in the community and this would not be there if we did not accept and tolerate each other.

All cultures are given the same importance and we celebrate them all. We appreciate that we all learn differently and we try our best to support each other. We never judge as we feel that everyone is unique. What I like most about UWCEA, is the diversity we have here and how we all learn from each other. We learn from people from different cultures living here and they learn from us. Everyone is respected no matter where they come from and everyone is valued. This is also the same when we go outside of the campus and spend time in the local community.”

Ben Morley – Deputy Head of Campus

This has been a busy week for D1 students some of which are involved in the East African Model United Nations and others are out on two different OP trips.

Last week we heard from IB about the adaptations they are making for the May 2022 exams and teachers will be sharing this with students soon.

For D2 students the focus has been orals and finalising submissions. This week we have had the mock orals for English A and the focus students have shown has been impressive. They will get feedback from their teachers to allow them to prepare for the final orals. Next week we have the mock orals for Swahili A and the Language Acquisition subjects. Students need to make sure they arrive on time as the preparation is with an unseen stimulus.  Many students spent time over the long weekend finishing work and are now uploading it for us. I will be checking in with individuals over the next week about how they are doing.

In addition to this, they have been reviewing their mock papers and the mock grade report was issued yesterday. Students should use this information to plan their study programme before the final exams which start in 10 weeks.

Margaret Brunt – DP Cordinator

Every year a group of eager and hardworking students head to a Model United Nations conference to test their debating and public speaking skills. The conference that ran from February 22nd – February 26th 2021 enabled the delegates to develop research, public speaking, communication skills; inculcating precious values that they would carry with them to the future. Due to the global pandemic, a face to face conference was not possible and it took the form of a digital platform; making the 39th conference the first virtual East Africa Model United Nations. 

“As the delegates entered the General Assembly we were surprised to see so many participants coming from different schools. The diversity in the students and knowledge ability definitely made this a great learning experience despite not being able to interact with delegates face to face. We were able to cherish, acquire and spread knowledge.”

Congratulations are in order to the whole group on a successful completion of the conference and would like to give special mention to the following:

• Sayyada K and Maria B for having their resolutions considered for debate.
• Andre L for winning Best Delegate in Special Summit.
• Navya A for Best Digital Artist amongst the Press Corps.

“To our future M5s and D1s, we encourage you to join this fruitful experience and step out of your comfort zone and let your voice be heard about topics that interest you. We can proudly say that this was an unforgettable conference and we would like you to experience it too. To the M1s to M4s, there is a possibility of a Middle School MUN (MSMUN) and consider joining”

Navya A – Press corps EAMUN

This week brings more changes in our routine in residential life, but we reflect, adjust, and move forward with resilience and care for others. Whilst the up and down movement of this new normal can add an element of stress to all students and staff, we are fortunate to have been able to have such a successful weekend away in our respective bubbles. For our Diploma students we visited Majimoto on Friday. Our Primary Students engaged in playgrounds and adventures at IBES and Kiliwonders, and our MYP students got immersed in the wilderness at Lamalok reserve and TPC. Below are some experiences:

“Being in school for almost 8 weeks without contact with the outside community made going to majimoto a perfect escape.  Spending time with my friends with little fish in the water nibbling at our feet was funny . Looking at the smiles on everyone’s faces, it made me wonder the last time I saw my friends and classmates that happy. Everyone was having a great adventurous time at the hot spring, even little Blair, Mr Johnston’s son made friends with the older Diploma students as they took him under their wings and floated through the currents. We later kicked off the evening with a delicious dinner by the bottom pitch. A  lot of students were excited and thrilled because this was our first dinner on the pitch. We ended with some wonderful dance battles and dancing the night away to South African house music which was both funny and exhilarating with the bonfire at the community garden. It was a well planned weekend, with a lot of cherished memories, wonderful photos and very interesting dance moves. Thank you Mr. Simon and everyone that organized the weekend activities.”

     -Magreth

This Sunday, both the Kivuli and Kiogonzi dorms went on a trip to TPC and Lamalok reserve. We departed UWCEA campus at 10:00 am and arrived on TPC grounds an hour later. Once we completed the registration, we followed the rangers to go and see the wildlife. We first ended up stopping and seeing flamingos and a crocodile – even seeing a dead flamingo which was interesting. After that, we got back on the bus and went to the campsite that we were going to be at for a while. After lunch, we decided to go on a walk, but then suddenly it started raining. This really did make the trip more eventful because, during our walk, a lot of people ended up slipping and falling and getting muddy and laughing at all the people who fell. After an afternoon of getting to know others and spending time with people we may not usually spend time with, we made dinner on a campfire overlooking the beautiful mountain ranges in the background. Finally, we got back on the bus for a brief night game drive where we saw the sporadic animals in the wilderness. This truly was an interesting experience, and I would recommend it to anyone that is thinking of going.

It was an eventful weekend and not possible without the help of Tahera and her team who organised all the meals, outdoor dinner and packed lunches for copious amounts of students on various days. I also need to thank Afzal and his team for assisting us with the coordination of the events and of course, our amazing staff.

I would like to end this bulletin discussing health and safety in our residential dorms. We are fortunate to have both Nurse Jackie, Dr Marieke and Ms Cassandra assisting us every day. Their help does not go unnoticed and we are extremely fortunate to have such professionals working with us 24/7 to ensure the students’ health and well-being is at the very forefront of our minds.

Simon Johnston – Head of Residential Life

After last weekend off due to the long weekend break, this weekend we have 2 trip away. The L3 Hiking trip to Mt Hanang is taking on Tanzania’s 3rd highest peak Mt Hanang with a grueling day’s accent on Saturday. The Flatland level 3 will also be out behind Mt Meru and Arusha National park mixing it with some wildlife and enjoying the great outdoors. As you can see above we have a full schedule of activities coming up.

In addition to getting out and experiencing Tanzania’s beauty, these trips allow students time away from deadlines and electronics to better get to know each other. We encourage students to get involved in at least one trip a semester.

Can you believe it is March already? As we look ahead there are some exciting things happening in the MYP.  We have the Personal Projects being exhibited on Thursday March 11th we will provide a schedule for attendance and viewing closer to the date. There are some fabulous OP trips scheduled as well as a few IDU trips “re” scheduled.  Please know we are implementing safety protocols on these trips to ensure that everyone is safe and having a great time. As soon as we firm up the new dates of the M1 Lake Eyasi trip and have the dates for the M4 Simba Farm trip we will let you know.

There will be MAP testing in MYP beginning on March 22nd.  These are for M1-M3 ONLY, Please ensure your student is well rested and heads to school after a healthy breakfast. Friday March 19th we will have a “dry run” practice day to make sure the students are familiar with the MAP test routine of taking and then there will be a schedule published with the days your child will be testing.  Stay tuned.

As you know by now we are taking additional safety steps to ensure your child and their teacher are safe during these unique times.   There will be situations that require masking and those that do not.  Please make sure your child has a mask and is aware of the importance of hand washing, hand sanitizing and social distancing.  It helps if we are all sharing the same message in a calm and thoughtful way.

Jeanne Aman – MYP Coordinator

Building Resiliency

This week, Dr. Michele Borba participated in an interview/presentation titled Reduce Anxiety and Increase Hope with Dr. Michele Borba (starts at 9:20).  During the conversation, she introduces her new book Thrivers , and provides strategies and resources to enhance the ability to thrive during challenging life events. One of the resources that you may find useful is the Thrivers Character Strength Assessment tool which involves assessing your child based on statements in order to evaluate the strengths that will allow them to thrive through life’s difficulties.

During the recording linked above, Dr. Borba touches upon the seven traits of thrivers based on decades of research. The traits briefly described in the chart below are critical for success as stepping stones to build resiliency. Given the increase in mental health concerns among young people (and the people who care for them), enhancing these traits can help change the levels of anxiousness and self-awareness that appear to be more prevalent due to our current circumstances.

These traits correlate well with the UWCEA Guiding Statements​ that we are embracing and exemplifying as a community throughout everyday activities.

In addition, as we bring Black History Month to a close this weekend, there are tremendous tales of Black people who found a way to thrive throughout history that can serve as sources of inspiration for our young people. From the Kings and Queens of many centuries ago on this continent, to the recent successes of Vice President Kamala Harris and Naomi Osaka, there are many stories of thriving that can be used as examples of perseverance through trials and tribulations. Life has a way of placing adversity along our path, but those who have the tools to thrive find a way to keep moving onward and upward. We look forward to finding ways to foster resilience in our students and community through a collective effort.

On the university side, we continue to celebrate with our D2 students who are receiving offers of admission to institutions around the world, and some with significant scholarship money. We will share detailed information later this semester. In the meantime, we encourage families of students in M4-D2 to learn more about colleges and universities by attending upcoming virtual events that are constantly updated on this link. This weekend there is another major virtual fair with over 600 institutions, including almost 80 non-US institutions. Click here to learn more and register for this event on Sunday. 

Take care and thrive,

UWCEA School Counseling Team

Next week are our inter-house galas, the MYP on Tuesday 2nd March and the PYP on Wednesday 3rd of March. As always, any assistance from the community would be greatly appreciated at these events so please email me if you are available to help out and willing to wear a mask for that time (robinmarsh@uwcea.org).

Tennis with Coach Charles
Tennis with Coach Charles continues with him offering private and/or group lessons Wednesdays at 3:30pm to 4:30pm and Saturdays from 9.30am to 11.30am. Please contact Coach Charles at the courts at the above-mentioned times or call/message on 0710606766. 

PYP Saturday Soccer
Saturday Soccer with Mr T and several of our skilled M5, D1 & D2 students resumes this weekend.  It kicks off at 9am and finishes at 10.30am just in time for the PYP swim squad to get their laps in.

Go Leopards
Robin Marsh

Inter-house is heating up with the M1-M4 soccer concluded last week, well done to Mawenzi who took the points on this occasion. There is plenty in store this March as far as house competitions go, we have our MYP 5km Fun Run, usually held at the Kili marathon, but will be held in and around our campus this year and be a house competition. We have our Master Chiefs taking on challenges on the 12th and 19th of March, the Swim galas on the 2nd and 3rd of March and to finish off, some March Madness Basketball too.  So be ready to see a lot of movement on the leader board over the next few weeks.

While we welcome the community, please be aware that these will be conducted in a way to social distance, be outside or require masks.

Thank you P4 for your celebratory Primary Gathering this Friday. It is good to know what and how we celebrate events around the world. P5s will be presenting in the next gathering on the 5th of March. Parents are welcome to attend. Do remember to wear a mask.

Go Meru, Kibo, Mawenzi! It’s house competition time. There will be a PYP swim gala on Wednesday the 3rd of February. Send your child to school with their swimming kit, towel, goggles, sunscreen, hat, water bottle and house T-shirt. Please label everything clearly so nothing gets lost.

We will begin at 8am with fun EC/P1 events and continue with normal events for the rest of the day. School will end at 11:15am for EC and 1:10pm for the rest of Primary. Clubs will take place as normal on that day. All visiting adults are required to wear a mask when they come to assist in the events or watch the races.

Mboka Mwasongwe & Deborah Mills – PYP Coordinators

Primary Student Voice has been focusing on organizing the 100th day in School for the past few weeks. The 100th Day in School will take place on Tuesday March 9th 2021 from 7:45 to 10:00am. For Primary students, the 9th of March will be a free dress day. We need the WHOLE school to help us in our endeavours to reach some 100th day goals. Can we kindly ask you to:

• Nominate friends, colleagues or staff members who perform a kind act. You can nominate them on the grey board outside rooms 16 and 18. Our goal is to make it to 100 kind acts by 9th March. At present, we have around 40!
• Help us help the larger community by donating some dry or canned food in the box outside Mr. Morley’s office.

This has been a busy 4 day week. EC continues to explore numbers and letter sounds. EC 1 created the number one using coloured sand which you can see on our classroom wall when you enter. EC 2 are busy practicing how to form their numbers correctly when they write them.

P1s are continuing to explore subtraction. This week, they learned how easy it was to take away a small number from a two digit one such as 45-3. They were very proud of being able to do this. They are all reading various words with some reading beginning blends for a couple of weeks now. They are building up their store of sight words.

This week, P1s began looking at sentences and how to start them with a capital letter and end them with a full stop. They enjoyed singing the 4 parts of a sentence with Jack Hartmann. Let them continue to explore this as you read with them at home.

Mboka Mwasongwe

This week in P2/3 we’ve been looking at the moon. We’ve used a ball and flashlight to see what the different phases of the moon are, and learned a series of moon facts that we’ve found interesting. Students have begun working on their planet infographics and computer generated planet images. We’ve been learning about time and are able to create and read times to o’clock, quarter past, half past and quarter to. We’ll continue to practice our clock reading next week.

On Thursday, Mr. Cofer kindly offered to take us to the new building site. We got to see a crane in action, and look at the progress made in the science block. Thank you Mr. Cofer for wow-ing us!

Please note that Wednesday March 3rd 2021, is the Primary Swim Gala. Students are asked to bring their swimmers, sunblock, hat and lots of water to rehydrate. A warm hoodie will also be helpful if the weather’s cloudy.

Elisha Jaffer

I’m so proud of our class- they did a wonderful job today at the Primary Gathering! Students presented about our last unit and did a fantastic job. Mr. Abdul’s Swahili class was particularly brave and they led the whole group in singing “Askari-eee!”

This week in Math we measured angles and learned to use protractors. Our unit lessons considered the difference between an invention and an innovation. We considered the evolution of the telephone as an example of how inventions change over time. We also enjoyed some chocolate chips from my home stash as we read about the “invention” of the chocolate chip cookie!

We are looking forward to the Primary Swim Gala on Wednesday. Students should bring their swimming kit on Monday as usual for our PE Swim and then again on Wednesday. We’d like for students to wear their house t-shirts that day and don’t forget sunscreen! Parents are welcome to come and cheer (please do bring a mask).

Kacey Buckley

Well done P5 for your singing performance in the Primary Gathering. This week we have started getting ready for our own Primary Gathering on Friday, 5th March. We look forward to seeing many of you there – the children plan to entertain you with their voices!  Please remember to wear a mask when you visit the campus. In maths we have been multiplying 2 digits by 2 digits (or more) using the grid method. We will move on to more standard methods of multiplication next week. The children have written books using interesting verbs, learned to identify rhyme schemes in poetry and have composed some simple poems of their own. We will look at the techniques of onomatopoeia, alliteration and personification next week. Our recording of random acts of kindness for the Student Voice board is going well. The P5 students are a caring and co-operative group!

Deborah Mills

Today the P6 and P5 performed excellently during the primary gathering with guidance from Mr. Samuel. I will post the song on SeeSaw.

Next week is going to be packed full of fun. The P6 is going to shine at the Swim Gala on Wednesday. Please remind them to bring a water bottle and a healthy snack to school. Then on Thursday and Friday we will have the retreat to start the PYP Exhibition. On Monday, they will bring home a packing list. Thank you to all the parents who returned the permission slips so promptly. During the retreat the P6 will be viewing a slideshow to introduce them to all the parts of the exhibition process. I will share this with you parents as well. Your children can lead you through the slides. 

Due to so much extra activity next week, and having two short weeks the class has decided to share their media summatives on the 12th of March. Please check in with them about their personal summatives.

Sarah Brummel