Term 1 - 29 September 2023
Matters of Principal
Whole School
Announcements
INTERNATIONAL DAY
We're looking for parents to bring a taste of their home country to our International Day Food Market on 12th October.
The Food Market has become a real highlight of our International Day celebrations, giving the community a real flavour of the rich and varied cultural heritage we have here. We'd love as many of you as possible to help us bring this gastronomic journey to life so we can create a global adventure right here at RST.
Please use the following link to sign up and let us know what food you'll be bringing: https://tinyurl.com/3wt3xydj
UNLEASH YOUR INNER GRANDMASTER AT THE THAILAND PATTAYA OPEN CHESS TOURNAMENT!
Get ready for a thrilling clash of intellects at the Thailand Pattaya Open Chess Tournament. This prestigious event promises fierce competition and strategic brilliance, making it a must-attend for chess enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Event Details:
- Date: 13 th – 17 th October 2023
- Location: 4th Floor, Thappraya Hall, Pattaya City Hall
Registration Details:
- Email: pattayachessclub@gmail.com
- Early Bird Deadline: Register before 11 th October 2023 to secure your spot in this thrilling tournament.
Don't miss your chance to be a part of this chess extravaganza! Join us at the Thailand Pattaya Open Chess Tournament and let the battle of wits begin!
TRAILMASTER SERIES X 2024
Trail Masters Series X 2024 invites you to join them for an event hosted at Wisdom Valley!
When: Sunday, 7th January 2024 (registration closes 31st October 2023)
Where: Wisdom Valley
What: a choice of 50km, 30km and 10km running events, plus a fun Obstacle Race for all to enjoy.
If this event piques your interest, please click HERE TO FIND OUT MORE (including information in Thai) or HERE TO REGISTER (incredible RST community discounts available ).
We hope to see you there!
Reminders
RSTPA CHRISTMAS FAIR
On Saturday, 2nd December we will hold our annual RSTPA Christmas Fair 2023.
The Christmas Fair committee would like to offer RST parents a special 'early bird' discount for taking vendor stalls at the RSTPA Christmas Fair.
If you'd like to register, please read the letter here for details.
RSTPA PARENT COOKING CLASSES
Our RSTPA Parent Cooking Classes continue to be very popular. This term, we will have the following classes:
- 9th October – French
- 6th November – Indian
We have a maximum of 24 places, so if you are interested, please reserve your place via the QR code or by getting in touch with Helen Cool: irbis2002@bk.ru / Line: Helen Cool / 0907694661.
There will be a small fee of 300THB per session to cover the costs of ingredients and you will need to bring some empty containers to take your food away.
RSTPA CHARITY GOLF DAY
The RSTPA is busy organising the second annual RST Charity Golf Day. Last year was a great success and this year promises to be even better!
- To find out more, CLICK HERE
- If you like to join the event as an individual or team of 4 golfers, CLICK HERE
- If you’d like to partner with the event as a sponsor, CLICK HERE.
Senior
Announcements
SIXTH FORM UPDATE
The transition into Sixth Form learning is an exciting time for young people as they embark on the next phase of their academic and personal journey. The LXX have hit the ground running and are enjoying how intellectually stimulating and fulfilling our Sixth Form academic programme is. The XX are looking towards their futures, working on personal statements and essays and getting their university applications ready for submission.
World-class universities and employers expect students to be able to think critically, be self-disciplined, learn independently and illustrate excellent leadership potential; at RST we provide students with opportunities to fulfil these expectations.
This week the Levee are interviewing a group of LXX students who’ve applied for the first round of leadership positions. The successful candidates' first task will be arranging our first Sixth Form social event of this year. After half term, we’ll also be engaging in our Sixth Form residential (Nov 15th and 16th). An important part of the overall Sixth Form experience, with a focus on team building and leadership skills development.
NAVIGATING THE SAT JOURNEY WITH RUGBY SCHOOL THAILAND
In the pursuit of higher education and the realisation of academic dreams, the SAT stands as a pivotal milestone for students on both sides of the globe. From bustling Bangkok to the serene campuses of Rugby School Thailand, the SAT is more than an exam; it's a gateway to opportunities that transcend borders.
Click on the link below to learn more about the SATs. For further information about college admission requirements, students should speak to our Higher Education and Careers team, Ms. Cecil and Mr. Markes. Our SAT Test Coordinator is Ms. Mason.
UNIVERSITY OF WARWICK INTERACTIVE WORKSHOP
We recently hosted Mr. Amarjeet S Mutneja, the Student Recruitment Regional Manager (International) from the University of Warwick, for an insightful session on applying to top UK Russell Group universities.
Students from XX, LXX, and D Block participated in an interactive workshop led by Mr. Mutneja, which included a mock admissions panel where they assessed personal statements.
This event aligns with our commitment to preparing students for success in their academic pursuits and university applications, exemplifying the range of opportunities available at RST. We remain dedicated to empowering our students for their higher education journey.
Reminders
SPORTS DAY
Parents are warmly invited to to watch their child participate in Sports Day on 3rd October starting at 1pm.
HOUSE MUSIC
Parents are warmly invited to watch House Music which takes place on Wednesday, 11th October, starting at 2:45pm in the WEC.
KEY DATES
Below is a document containing some of the key dates for the term ahead. The list is not exhaustive, and we would advise checking the Schoolzine calendar.
Dates for your Diary
6th OCTOBER: F Block residential presentation to parents 4pm in the Black Box
3rd NOVEMBER: Parent-Teacher Meeting for XX
17th NOVEMBER: D Block futures event - introduction to A Levels
Parents are invited to a presentation at 3pm. More information to follow
Highlight of the Week
GLOBAL UNIVERSITIES FAIR
Over 300 students, along with their families and teachers, gathered at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Pattaya for the first-ever Global University Fair hosted by ERUC Thailand. They connected with representatives from 90+ global universities and explored study programmes, admissions, and university-life worldwide. Seminars emphasised finding the right academic and social fit for student satisfaction and success. Participating universities were impressed with local students, and RST co-hosted the event to showcase educational and career prospects.
At RST, we understand that choosing the right educational path is a crucial step towards a successful future. Our experienced Higher Education and Careers team is dedicated to assisting students throughout their journey, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to pursue the most suitable pathways after their time at RST.
LUNCHTIME CONCERT
Our senior students delivered an exceptional lunchtime concert event that left us all in awe. The stage was alive with their remarkable musical talents, creating a truly unforgettable experience filled with soul-stirring melodies and captivating performances. We were thrilled to have shared this extraordinary musical journey with everyone who attended.
Prep
Announcements
INKTOBER HOUSE COMPETITION
The Inktober house competition starts on Sunday and runs throughout October.
Students are invited to get creative producing ink drawings that match the prompt word for each day of October and earn points for their house in the process.
You can do only 1 or all 31 it's up to you. Every drawing counts for a point towards the competition. If you complete 10 you will earn a try as well, so you could get up to 3 tries for doing 30 drawings matching the prompts. If you succeed in doing all 31 you will earn double points for your house!
There are no Google classrooms this year, real drawing entries only. You can use Procreate but you must print the drawing off and hand it in to the display at the entrance.
**Make sure you use the correct size (A5 square) by checking the information carefully on the competition website. The website can be accessed through the link on the form or house google classrooms.
Good luck and have fun drawing!
Here are the competition rules:
RULES
- Your work must be on A5 square paper.
- Your work must be in ink (any type of black pen)
- Write your NAME, FORM, HOUSE and PROMPT WORD such as Dave, 5G, Webb Ellis, Fire.
- You can draw digitally, but you must print at home (A5 size).
- Place your work in the tray to hand it in.
- Every entry receives a point.
- If you complete all 31 drawings, you get double points!
- 10 drawings earn you a TRY for your house.
- Each day the best drawing will win double points and a treat!
Below are the prompt words and some entries from last year.
PREP LIBRARY
Over the past few weeks, we have been welcoming our parents into School to visit our new library as part of our Coffee Morning cycle. From your feedback, we are now delighted to confirm that after half term our library will be open for parents every Wednesday and Thursday from 16:15-17:30. Feel free to come along by yourself, with a friend or with your children. During this time, you may come into the library to enjoy the space, borrow books or talk to our librarian – Ms Brassfield. We look forward to seeing you there.
PREP MUSIC RECITAL – TUESDAY, 7th NOVEMBER
(Entries close Thursday, 12th October)
If your child learns a musical instrument and is ready for an opportunity to perform then please click this link or scan the QR code to sign them up for the next music recital. It is essential that you speak with your child's instrumental teacher prior to completing the form to ensure that they have a piece learnt to performance standard and they are ready to get the most out of this performance opportunity.
Reminders
MUSIC RECITALS
Parents, family members and friends are warmly invited to attend our second Prep Music Recital on Monday, 2nd October at 12:50 pm in the Veraphan Theatre.
The list of performers are shown below:
Dates for your Diary
30th SEPTEMBER:
08:45-10:00 Session 1 of the Saturday Enrichment Programme (SEP) - Sign-up on SOCS
10:15-11:45 Session 2 SEP - Sign-up on SOCS
U12 Football @NIST
U14 Football @Bangkok Patana
U9 Football @Shrewbury
1st OCTOBER: U9-U16 Rugby v Japanese Club Bangkok
2nd OCTOBER:
08:10-10:35: Year 3-5 Cross Country Event (Students to wear House Tops)
12:50-13:30: Music Recital in the Veraphan Theatre
U11 ESAC Basketball v ISE
U9 ESAC Football v GIS
3rd OCTOBER: 13:30-16:00: 4W & 4B Art in Paradise Trip
4th OCTOBER:
08:10-17:00: 8E & 8W Coastal Trip
13:30-16:00: 4F & 4P Art in Paradise Trip
5th OCTOBER:
08:10-17:00: 8P & 8F Coastal Trip
08:10-09:10: Digital Workshop - Beyond Screen Time (Veraphan Theatre)
6th OCTOBER:
08:10-10:35: Y6-8 Cross-Country Event (Students to wear House Tops)
Year 3 Outdoor Education Trip
13:30-18:00: Meet the Tutor - Please book via School Shape
7th OCTOBER:
08:45-10:00 Session 1 of the Saturday Enrichment Programme (SEP) - Sign-up on SOCS
10:15-11:45 Session 2 SEP - Sign-up on SOCS
Puppy Cup Swim Meet @Bangkok Prep
U8s Football @Bangkok Patana
U9s Football Festival
U11 Football Festival @RST
West Side Story Theatre Trip
Highlight of the Week
YEAR 4 HUMANITIES
Within our Humanities lessons, Year 4 have been embarking on incredible journeys into the heart of the rainforest! After diving deep into our research, and learning about the location, climate and inhabitants of the rainforest, we have consolidated our understanding by creating some fantastic dioramas, packed with information and detail.
Each model showcases the rainforest’s four distinct layers- the forest floor, understory, canopy and emergent layer as well as what you might find there. From the towering trees in the emergent layer, to the fascinating creatures on the forest floor, Year 4 students have considered each detail of their models carefully to depict the varying features and adaptations of this special landscape.
We have had such fun bringing the magic of the rainforest to life and are incredibly proud of our creativity and craftsmanship. Thank you to all those who contributed to the recycled materials we have been using. Please do feel free to pop your head into our classroom during pick-up and ask us about our learning.
YEAR 4 SCIENCE
Year 4 students went on a Science Invertebrate Hunt last week. We have been learning how to classify invertebrates into different groups by counting their legs and examining their exoskeletons. Here are some photos from our recent invertebrate hunts:
OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTRE MORNINGS
Our Outdoor Education Centre was a hive of activity this week with both Year 5 and Year 6 groups visiting. The carefully curated activities were tailored to introduce them to an array of exciting outdoor pursuits, fostering the acquisition of new skills while honing their resilience, teamwork, and communication abilities.
There were many heartwarming moments over the two days as the students showed their creativity, resilience, camaraderie for their friends, and curiosity about nature.
These OEC experiences provide our students with unique opportunities outside of the classroom, allowing them to forge new connections and learn new skills in an authentic outdoor environment.
Year 5
Year 6
CHARITY ASSEMBLY
Last week we reflected on our charity work from the previous year. We welcomed Hand to Hand, who shared how our support last year helped those in need in our local area. Mrs Johnson and Mrs VK also talked about our charity initiatives for the coming academic year, which has inspired us to think about how we can help more.
We listened to performances from Minnie, Emiya, Prague and Emmet, and heard all about the World Scholars Competition from those who attended.
YEAR 5 ENGLISH
Inference is a key reading skill needed for Year 5 English students. This week we delved into the mind of the protagonist of our class text 'Leon and the Place Between'. By adding thought bubbles and feelings adjectives directly onto the pages of the book, we were able to infer the characters' emotions at different stages of the story. We also used a thesaurus to up-level our vocabulary. Great work Year 5!
Pre-Prep
Reminders
AFTER SCHOOL PLAY
A reminder that parents are not allowed to play at the Nursery playground or bike track after School. You may use the KS1 playground from 4:45pm to 5:30pm and must supervise your children.
BOOK BAGS
Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 please bring your book bags to School each day. Your reading books and Library books need to go in these to help keep them from getting damaged/lost.
Dates for Your Diary
3rd OCTOBER: Safeguarding Workshop for parents – in THAI language (8:30am) - CANCELLED
4th OCTOBER: Learner Profile day - no dress up required
6th OCTOBER: Parent settling in Meetings 3pm-6:15pm (NO ACTIVITIES ON THIS DAY)
10th OCTOBER: Makaton Workshop for parents (8:30am)
Learn more about our sign language and how it can support language development
12th OCTOBER: International day - dress up in the clothes of your country
Parents welcome to the show and parade at 8:30am.
13th – 23rd OCTOBER: School closed for half term break
Highlights of the Week
PRE-NURSERY
Pre-Nursery have had so much fun exploring all the different areas of the School we can play in, but we have to admit, the playground is one of our favourites! Look at how many smiles you can see from the Fish and Rabbits.
SWIMMING
Pre-nursery began this term by splashing and having fun outside of their classroom. This initially caused some anxiety, but this soon gave way to excitement. After two weeks of having a great time splashing around, it was time to visit the splash pool. There was some hesitancy at first, but with the assistance of the teachers and teaching assistants, the majority of students were having fun in the water in no time. Our main emphasis for the remaining portion of this term will be developing comfort and safety in the water.
Useful Links
Sport & Enrichment
Sport
GOLF
RST participated in Round 2 of the ISGT (International School Golf Tour), which was hosted by Shrewsbury at Chee Chan Golf Club. Our team of 5 had an excellent day, and Sunny from Year 8 achieved a remarkable 3rd place finish, earning top honours for us.
Enrichment
LEGO CHALLENGE
Our students have demonstrated remarkable creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as they've embarked on their Lego-building adventures. The enthusiasm and dedication shown by our young builders have been fantastic. The RST Lego Challenge Activity continues to be a shining example of how we encourage innovation and hands-on learning in our School community.
Boarding
Last weekend's boarding excursion to Jump Z was a great one burning off excess energy! Everyone had an excellent time bouncing around, doing flips and shooting hoops. Back on campus, there was plenty of time for our boarders to enjoy their usual weekend pursuits - including games, fitness, study and relaxing.
The Marshall House boarders also baked a delicious chocolate cake for Owen's birthday! If you want to talk to us about signing your child up for part, weekly or full boarding, get in touch with dennisbilling@rugbyschool.ac.th
RSTeam Spotlight
Get to know a little better our dedicated team of teachers and support staff who make our School great, by learning more about them and their roles.
This week we focus on Jay Maxwell (Head of EAL, Pre-Prep):
Social Media and More
Keep up to date with all that's happening at RST, through these dedicated channels:
Instagram
RST
Boarding
Sport
Performing Arts