Rugby School Thailand eNewsletter

Matters of Principal

Whole School

Announcements

RST BOARDING WEEK
Our annual boarding week is next week; what a time to celebrate boarding here at Rugby - we have never had so many boarders, and it's never been so popular. With senior boarding houses being expanded due to increased demand, now is the time to sign up your daughter/son for boarding in readiness for next academic year.

Boarding Week at RST is a chance to celebrate our ongoing success; our award-winning boarding offers three options for you:

- Part Boarding (up to three nights per week),
- Weekly Boarding (up to five nights per week) and
- Full Boarding (up to seven nights per week).

Why not consider boarding for your child? With structured and supervised time each evening for private study, device free time encouraging your child to focus on their offline world rather than their online one, access to key staff & facilities, peer group work sessions, leadership opportunities, teamwork, and much more, your daughter or son can gain vital personal skills that prepare them wonderfully well for their young adult life and the resilience and independence needed for those next steps after School.

For all enquiries or any questions, please contact the Director of Boarding, dennisbilling@rugbyschool.ac.th or Admissions.

EXPERT RUGBY COACHING AT RST
We are thrilled to have former All Blacks player and World Cup winner, Adam Thomson, coming to RST to coach some of our students next week. This is an incredible opportunity for our U10, 12, 14 & 16 players to take their game to the next level!

MONTHLY GOLF COMPETITION FOR SIAM GOLF CLUB MEMBERS
If you are a member of Siam Golf Club and would like to join other RST parents for a monthly Medal and Stapleford friendly competition, please contact Mr Justin Saunders through reception@siamcountryresort.com, or join this Line group using the QR Code below. February is now booked out, but places are still available from March:

RSTPA COOKING CLASS
This week, in celebration of Lunar New Year, our Chinese parents ran the RSTPA Cooking Class. Many thanks to these parents for their time and effort. It was wonderful to welcome some new parents to this class too. The next class will be all about Russia on the 11^th March.

RSTPA COOKING CLASS: RUSSIA
On 11^th March (08:15 – 10:30) we will celebrate cuisine from Russia. We have a maximum of 24 places, so if you are interested, please reserve your place via QR code / 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.

WISDOM SPRING CAMP
Wisdom Camp returns to Rugby School Thailand for our Spring Camp from 6^th - 12^th April. Prepare for a week of enriching Songkran-themed activities, including STEM, Art, Craft, Performance, Water sports, Bushcraft, and Indoor Sports.

Wisdom Spring Camp is a residential Camp for children aged 7-12 years old and is based at RST. Wisdom Camps provide the perfect opportunity for your child to explore, learn, and create lasting memories.

Click here and apply now. RST students receive a 10% Early Bird discount too!

Reminders

MATILDA THE MUSICAL
A reminder that there are discounted tickets available for the RST community over half term. Please complete this Google Form or contact Mr Furness for further details.

Senior

Announcements

RST BOOK DRIVE
We are excited to announce the commencement of our Second Book Drive, scheduled to run from 5^th February to 29^th March. During this period, we encourage all students to contribute children's books, whether in English or Thai.

Conveniently located at the Senior reception and administrative areas, there will be two designated boxes for book drop-offs.

We kindly request that all book donations be made by 29^th March.

The collected books will be donated to the Chronic Children's Department at Chonburi Hospital. These children, facing health challenges preventing them from attending school, are currently being educated within the hospital premises. Chonburi Hospital is in the process of establishing a small academy to ensure these children have access to education. However, additional books are needed to enhance the learning environment in the department.

Your small action can make a big difference in providing these children with the resources they need for education.

For further details or inquiries, please feel free to contact Meimei (LXX)

CALLING ALL FUTURE MEDICAL STUDENTS
Get ready to dive into the beginnings of your journey to becoming a doctor at the “RAMApanitharn 27th” camp. A programme that will walk you through the life of Ramathibodi medical students, deepen self-discovery and unravel your questions and mysteries with countless unforgettable experiences.

Join us from 6^th – 8^th April at the Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, and Chakri Naruebodindra Medical Institute.

Registration opens 16^th – 18^th February. In the meantime, get the latest updates by following them on:
Instagram: @ramapanitharn27th and @ramabyd
Facebook: Ramapanitharn27th and RAMA by D

Reminders

School commences on Tuesday, 27^th February after the half-term break for Day students. Boarders are welcome to return between 5pm and 8:30pm on Monday, 26^th February.

Dates for Your Diary

28^th FEBRUARY: Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition departs

9^th MARCH: F Block parent-teacher conference. Details will be sent out in a letter shortly.

Highlights of the Week

INSPIRING GUEST LECTURE BY DR APPOLINAIRE ETOUNDI FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST OF ENGLAND BRISTOL
This week, we welcomed Dr. Appolinaire Etoundi from the University of the West of England Bristol (UWE) for an inspiring guest lecture on robotics and mechatronics. Dr. Etoundi's talk, "Empowering Lives: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities", shared his remarkable journey from childhood curiosity to pioneering research in bio-inspired technologies and artificial intelligence. His message emphasised the importance of collaboration, problem-solving, and using technology for the betterment of society, leaving students inspired and motivated to make a positive impact in the world.

We would like to express our gratitude to Dr Appolinaire Etoundi for sharing his expertise and inspiring our students. RST remains committed to providing enriching experiences that broaden the horizons of its students and prepares them for a future where they can make meaningful contributions to society.

DIGITAL MEDIA AND DESIGN - RESEARCH TRIP TO RAYONG
Our trip to Rayong on Wednesday the 7th February helped us gain first-hand experience as photographers, having the opportunity to visit various places, including parts of Laem Charoen beach,Yomjinda road, and well-known artist Elsie Evans’s art retreat. This trip was highly applicable for our digital media and design course, following the beginning of our component 2 coursework, which includes the themes of; ‘The artist’s studio’, ‘The lifecycle of things’, and ‘Beach town rebrand’.

Collectively as a group, we enjoyed seeing the various scenery, local traditions, learning new things, and overall making unforgettable memories. Personally, my most favourite things to photograph were the local people and their captivating lifestyles. Not only did this trip serve as an eye-opener for us to explore a range of digital media through photography to include within our coursework, but it was also a great opportunity for us to discover what Rayong has to offer in relation to the rich culture, local community, and contrastingly different ways of living.

Written by Isabel

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT ON BABE, CLASS OF 2023
At Rugby School Thailand (RST), we take great pride in our alumni and their diverse journeys post-graduation. Today, we are excited to highlight the experiences of Babe, from the class of the Class of 2023, who offered a glimpse into her life as a first-year student at Glion Institute of Higher Education in Montreux, Switzerland.

Babe's journey began with a visit to our Higher Education and Careers Office at the start of her XX year, where she sought guidance on her higher education and career pathway following her A Levels. Uncertain but eager to apply her skills in a practical setting, Babe found herself drawn to the field of Hospitality Management. With her natural charm and exceptional communication abilities, Hospitality Management seemed like the perfect fit for her.

Transitioning to Glion Institute of Higher Education, Babe has immersed herself in the Bachelor’s in International Hospitality Business programme, which offers a unique blend of applied practical and academic courses, complemented by internships and on-the-job experience. Embracing the opportunities presented, Babe is currently exploring potential internship placements, with hotels in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, being possible options for her.

The Glion Bachelor’s programme equips students like Babe with the necessary practical (food tasting anyone?!) and business skills and knowledge to thrive in the dynamic hospitality industry, preparing them for successful careers in a global context.

At RST we know that one size does not fit all. We want students to consider institutions, courses and career pathways where they will flourish; following their passions and playing to their individual strengths. It is essential that they choose an institution where they will fit in well both socially and academically; where they will benefit from the whole student experience, preparing them for life after graduation. Finding the right fit provides an increased chance of satisfaction and success.

We are excited to follow your journey in global hospitality management Babe!

SPORTS DAY
The Senior sports day was a thrilling event filled with competitive spirit and camaraderie among students. Athletes showcased their skills and determination in various track and field events, cheered on by enthusiastic spectators. The day was marked by memorable moments of triumph and sportsmanship, creating lasting memories for all who participated.

Announcements

RST FACTOR
This May, students at RST can represent their House on the big stage in a performance-orientated House Competition focused on solo and small ensemble performances.

Every student who auditions will receive points for their House and may secure a ticket to perform on the stage in the Grand Final on Friday, 3rd May.

How to enter?
Scan the QR code for entry requirements, guidelines and a link to upload your audition.

WORLD BOOK DAY

Dates for your Diary

10^th FEBRUARY:
08:45-10:15: Saturday Enrichment Programme (SEP) Session 1
10:30-11:45: Saturday Enrichment Programme (SEP) Session 2
Please sign up on SOCS. Meeting place is the entrance of the Senior Building (Setti Metha)
U13 Football v Pattaya Academy
U13 BISA Volleyball Tournament

12^th FEBRUARY: U9 Football v GIS

13^th FEBRUARY:
U11 Football V REPS
Y8 Depart for Residential

14^th FEBRUARY:
U9 Basketball @RST
Y3-6 Learner Profile Week
Y7 Depart for Residential
Y8 Residential

15^th FEBRUARY:
Y3 Learner Profile Week
Y4 Sleepover
Y5 & 6 Depart for Residential
Y7 & 8 Residential

16^th FEBRUARY:
Y3 & 4 Learner Profile Week
Y5 - 8 Return from Residential

17^th – 24^th FEBRUARY: School Ski Trip to Japan

17^th – 26^th FEBRUARY: Half Term

27^th FEBRUARY: School Resumes

Highlights of the Week

STEAM COMPETITION
Our Prep Academic Scholars and CREST Discovery groups had the opportunity to join over 220 students from around the Eastern Seaboard of Thailand for a day of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths. The competition was hosted by St Andrews Green Valley and included a Period Table Minefield, a STEM scavenger hunt, teamwork games at the Forest School; and building elastic-powered cars.

There were also activities to prepare beforehand: DIY musical instruments made from natural materials (we used clay, bamboo and seed pods); bottle rockets; and costumes inspired by the elements of the periodic table. We chose to dress up as the elements present in a rugby ball. The students had to demonstrate knowledge, versatility, teamwork and resilience. A great day of hands-on and inspiring learning!

Congratulations to Reiko 7P, Sun 7B, Si Hyun 7P, Naiana 8P, Charlie 8E, Kaofang 8F, Gail 8P, Heidi 8W, Talia 7B, Tang-Oh 6D, Aria 5CD, Prang 6D, O.B 6A, Max 6A, Lola 5E, Alie 6D, Mina 5E, Audrey 6A

PREP MAKE A DIFFERENCE (MAD)
Last week, our Prep MAD students were very busy representing the School. They met Jacob from 58:12 United, which is a charity we have been supporting this year. Jacob came in to collect the donation we raised for the charity and spoke to the students about the work the charity does. Jacob was really impressed with the questions that our students asked about the work they do and was very grateful for the donation.

Over the weekend, our MAD students gave up their mornings to come and support a fun sports day organised by Mr Holland and local charities. The reps worked hard, but also made time to have fun!

YEAR 4
Year 4 have been writing ‘Heist Narratives’ in their English lessons this week. To celebrate their fantastic writing, they visited Year 3 and read their stories to them.

It was great to see Year 4 confidently communicating their work, and Year 3 reflecting and giving some purposeful feedback.

PREP MUSIC RECITALS
During the recitals this week, I had the pleasure to sit and listen as the music washed over me. I looked out into the audience and noticed parents, siblings, and students watching each performer with pride, admiration and joy as each student came to the stage and gave their best. The smiles on each student's face is one of pride, achievement, satisfaction, and quite a bit of relief. This relief comes from many hours of dedication, focus and hard work in preparing to give of themselves, their time, their nervousness, and their current musical ability to give us, their audience, a live performance.

This is one of the qualities that makes music special: a transferable skill to all areas of their education, learning dedication, resilience to persist in getting things right, and then being able to pull it together in one concentrated effort to perform at their best.

Bravo to all our performers; we look forward to hearing you again at our next music recital on Wednesday, 13th March. Registration for this recital is now open, please scan the QR code below.

Mr Cain
Head of Music

WE HAVE ACHIEVED STAR
Lucas (Y4)independently created a clear, exciting and informative presentation "We have achieved Star". He delivered this to a group of teachers and peers during his lunch break. This taught us all about the importance of fusion and how this could impact our future. Congratulations to Lucas and his team of helpers Mari and Marvin. This was a wonderful experience and we certainly learnt a lot.

YEAR 5 AND 6 ART EXHIBITION
The captivating art exhibition of Year 5 and 6 art showcased a diverse array of imaginative works and inspired expressions, reflecting the creative talents of our students. Visitors were invited to celebrate their artistic journey and unique perspectives brought to life.

Announcements

PARENT WORKSHOP
This week's parent workshop in Pre-Prep looked at fine and gross motor skills in younger children. Mrs Helen Fellows, a qualified occupational therapist, covered areas of development, areas of concern and practical tips for helping your child at home.

Please click on the link below to view the presentation:

Parent Workshop

WORKSHOP SUGGESTIONS
We will place a small box outside Pre-Prep for suggestions from parents for workshop topics. If you have an idea for a workshop, please pop a note into the box. Please include your child's age as well. You may write this in your native language if you prefer.

Reminders

PLAYGROUND RULES AFTER SCHOOL
Please ensure you are supervising your children after School. We have set rules and expectations that we follow at playtimes to help keep everyone safe. We would appreciate you following these rules as well:

Do not go on the big blue slide
One person on the zip wire
Do not climb on the small house roof
Maximum 6 children on the spinner
We go down slides, NOT up
The bike track is not in use after School
Take care of our resources

If everyone follows these rules and children are supervised then the play will be safe and the children will be safe. If the rules are not followed, we may need to close the playground.

Dates for Your Diary

12^th FEBRUARY: Year 1 Bikes to School (or scooters) with helmets

13^th FEBRUARY: PARENT WORKSHOP - Maths in Keys Stage 1

14^th FEBRUARY: Dental Hygiene Day- includes talks by Parent Dentists for the children and class activities during the day

16^th FEBRUARY: EYFS Coffee Morning

19^th – 26^th FEBRUARY: Half-term holiday

27^th FEBRUARY: School re-opens

28^th FEBRUARY: 100 Days of School

Highlights of the Week

NURSERY
This term, our exploration of "People in our Community" led us to an exciting encounter with our School's security guards. This week, the children had the chance to learn firsthand about the important roles these guardians play in our School. From directing traffic to catching snakes and assisting people at the gate, the security guards demonstrated how they contribute to our safety and well-being every day.

Learner Profiles

Enrichment & Sport

Enrichment

ADVENTURE EXPLORE SURVIVE (AES) ACTIVITY

Year 3-4
This week, our AES students were working towards their Fire Lighting badge. Authentic fire-lighting in a forest is a primal activity that is extremely rewarding to accomplish. Following the instruction and demonstration from Mr Kahumbu and Mr Jo, the students worked on their own to build and light their fire stacks. Working their flint and steel took some time to master, but showing great resilience and perseverance, they all succeeded! They also learned how to revive their campfires from just the embers, using dry leaves and grass, and then blowing gently on the embers. Next week they do it all again and more, as they go for their Camp Cooking badge!

Year 5-6
It was Bushcraft Furniture Badges for our years 5 and 6 this week. For this activity, they had to learn a range of new and challenging skills. First, they had to learn new lashing techniques to fasten the wooden poles together. They then had to build sturdy tripods for their sawing benches and learned how to safely use folding saws. Working in small teams, they took turns to hold and cut their poles before lashing them together to start their structures. They will complete their Camp tables and seats next week and they will be used in the Camp for the rest of the term.

Year 7-8
The Advanced AES students worked on making intricate fishing flies, lures and rigs. This activity called on all their creative and fine motor skills as they worked with small feathers and fishing line to build their fishing rigs. We will test these out after half term with a trip to a lake to see which works best!

Sport

BASKETBALL
What an epic U19 basketball invitational this past Saturday at RST! An incredible mix of some of the best international schools in the country along with some of the best Thai high schools made sure basketball was the real winner of the day. ICS, ASB Green Valley, KOB, and Chonkanyanukoon School brought their A-game, showcasing incredible skills and teamwork on the court. But it wasn't just about the competition; it was a celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie.

Players demonstrated not only their prowess in the game but also their fantastic sportsmanship, making every match a joy to watch. It's not just about winning; it's about the love for the game and the friendships forged on the court. Here's to more hoops, more fun, and more memorable tournaments in the future. Special thank you to all participating schools for making the journey to RST.

Our swimmers did incredibly well in and out of the competitions showing a solid team core.

Our special mention goes to the four swimmers who make finals: Paul (Y6), Lilly (Y7), Vincent (Y11), Rebecca (Y12). The outcome from these finals was Paul achieving 2 medals, Lilly 6 medals, three of them Gold, and Rebecca in an outstanding performance getting 7 medals, four of them Gold, and the Individual Top Point Scorer Trophy 15&Over Girls. This is the best performance RST Swim Team has ever performed at FOBISIA swimming event.

Congratulations to all swimmers: Amy (Y4), Natsuki (Y4), Fred (Y4), O’Neill (Y4), Ella (Y5), Lea (Y5), Chris (Y6), Porch (Y6), Paul (Y6), Alex (Y6), Simeon (Y7), Mangkorn (Y7), Kin (Y7), Lilly (Y7), Plagrim (Y8), Jennifer (Y8), Pat (Y9), Aiden (Y9), Namtan (Y9), Vincent (Y11), Rebecca (Y12)