Term 2 - 1 March 2024
Matters of Principal
Whole School
Announcements
PARENT SURVEY
Thank you to all parents who completed our Parent Survey that was sent out in the first half of the term. The results and comments have been really useful in underlining what we do well and areas where you would like us to improve.
We will have a drop-in feedback, Q&A session on the survey from 3.30-600pm on Wednesday 13th March in the Veraphan Theatre. At this the three Heads will present briefly on their part of the survey and highlight key areas of focus for them moving forward. The Principal and the Teepsuwans will also be there to answer any questions you may have and to listen to your views.
Please do come along to as much or as little as you want but we want to hear views.
SCHOOL PHOTOS
Please collect your child's photo from Senior Reception after 1pm today.
LIGHTNING POLICY
As the weather is changing, we would like to share with you our policy on lightning. This can be found on page 14 of the Health & Safety Policy that is on our School website.
WISDOM CAMP
Wisdom Camp returns on the 6th April for a 6-night residential Camp at RST. The pools and fields will be busy with many Songkran-themed activities. Campers will also make use of the fantastic DT and Art workshops, while the Dance studio will be bouncing to the tune of Zumba rhythms. We'll return to the OEC for Ziplining, the High Ropes course, and Archery and take Campers on hikes to teach them vital Bushcraft skills.
Spring Camp wouldn't be the same without a day excursion to Ramayana Waterpark. The highlight excursion for many of our Campers.
With Campers joining us from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, Wisdom Camp is growing into a phenomenal international Holiday Camp.
We still have places for RST Families if you are thinking of a holiday camp for your children this holiday. You can find out more on our Wisdom.camp website or by emailing campdirector@rugbyschool.ac.th
Reminders
RST RICE CHALLENGE
It is that time of the year again - the annual RST whole School Rice Challenge!
RST is organising a rice collection drive for the Hand-to-Hand Foundation, a local charity in Pattaya that assists underprivileged individuals in our community affected by poverty and abuse. These individuals often lack adequate care, food, shelter, and face uncertainty about their future. The Hand-to-Hand Foundation distributes 1.5 tons of rice weekly to those in need.
Therefore, RST is collecting rice donations to support this charity and raise awareness. We encourage you to participate by sponsoring a bag of rice for your child to bring to School for this charitable cause. This initiative is School-wide, and there is a competition to see which School can collect the most rice.
The Rice Challenge will run from 27th February – 5th April. The rice will then be donated to the Hand-to-Hand Foundation, which will distribute it throughout Thailand. To encourage participation, each School will hold internal tournaments.
Let's see if we can collect even more rice than last year, and help those in need with food on their plate.
Thank you very much.
RST MAD
RSTPA COOKING CLASS: RUSSIA
On 11th 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.
Highlight of the Week
AN UNFORGETTABLE WINTER ADVENTURE IN JAPAN
Over the February half-term break, 40 enthusiastic RST students from Years 5 to 11, along with teachers Mr Rees, Ms Barnes, Mr Beck, Ms Ricketts, and Mr Pye, embarked on an unforgettable journey to Japan. The trip, packed with excitement, blended adventure, cultural exploration, and team-building.
The group spent five thrilling days in the Shia Kogen region, known for its stunning mountain scenery and reliable snowfall. The students immersed themselves in skiing, regardless of their expertise, showing resilience and making remarkable progress.
Evenings were filled with quizzes, board games, snowball fights, and snowman-building challenges. For some students, this was their first encounter with snow, creating lifelong memories.
The journey continued with a hike to see the Snow Monkeys and a visit to a traditional temple in Obuse, Hokusai's hometown. The students explored Hokusai's art gallery, experiencing his iconic woodblock prints and vivid landscapes.
In Tokyo, they rode the Shinkansen bullet trains, enjoyed a Japanese barbeque feast, and ended with an unforgettable karaoke session.
Throughout the trip, the students were outstanding ambassadors of the School, embracing challenges and demonstrating responsibility. Plans are already underway for next year's trip, building on the success of this remarkable journey.
Senior
Announcements
NEW SENIOR SCHOOL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT
We are excited to announce the launch of our new Senior School Instagram account, rstaskbetterquestions. Ask Better Questions is more than just another social media platform; it's a vibrant community space crafted to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and meaningful dialogue among the diverse members of our School community. Through this platform, we aim not only to promote creative human interaction but also to provide an educational guide to social media good practice.
In addition, rstaskbetterquestions will serve as an exclusive platform for the Senior School's media club, RugBeReal, a team of dedicated students passionate about journalism, storytelling, and multimedia production. Led by our talented students, RugBeReal will curate compelling content, sparking discussions, and showcasing the diverse talents and perspectives within our School community.
We invite you to join us on Instagram at rstaskbetterquestions for thought-provoking content and to be a part of this enriching dialogue.
Together, let's explore, let’s learn and let’s connect.
Follow us on rstaskbetterquestions on Instagram.
NORTHERN LIGHTS FEST: CREATIVE SHOWCASE ART AND DESIGN IN THE UK & THAILAND
UK Universities, Birmingham City University, Nottingham Trent University, and Manchester Metropolitan University are holding an art and design event in Bangkok on 10th March.
Click on this link for more information, including how to register for the event.
UNIVERSITY FAIR
AUSTRALIAN UNIVERSITIES ROADSHOW
UNIFROG UNIVERSITY FAIR: SIGN UP NOW!
We are excited to welcome you to our first virtual university fair exclusively for students in Asia and Australasia to connect with top international universities and learn how to find and apply successfully to their dream course.
DATE: Wednesday, 24 April
TIME: 18:00–20:30 (Hong Kong Time, HKT)
SIGN UP: use this link
What's on the agenda?
Students can join live sessions with university experts on topics such as:
- What it's like to study computer science and technology
- Everything you need to know about scholarships
- Study in US and Canada
- Everything you need to know about visa applications
You will also have the opportunity to visit virtual booths and chat directly to global universities including Breda University of Applied Sciences (Netherlands), University College Cork (Ireland), Lancaster University Leipzig (Germany), and Concord University (the US).
Reminders
RST BOOK DRIVE
We are excited to announce the commencement of our Second Book Drive, scheduled to run from 5th February to 29th 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 29th 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 become a doctor at the “RAMApanitharn 27th” camp. A programme that will walk you through the life of Ramathibodi medical students, deepen your self-discovery and answer your questions with countless unforgettable experiences.
Join us from 6th – 8th April at the Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, and Chakri Naruebodindra Medical Institute.
Registration opens 16th – 18th February. In the meantime, get the latest updates by following them on:
Instagram: @ramapanitharn27th and @ramabyd
Facebook: Ramapanitharn27th and RAMA by D
Dates for Your Diary
8th MARCH: F Block Parent-Teacher Meeting
Highlights of the Week
THE INTERNSHIP AND VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME: SENIOR SCHOOL
We are thrilled to share the news that three RST 3 students participated in an internship at the Children's Department of Chonburi Hospital during the half term break.
During this valuable opportunity, students had the chance to learn from both teachers and the medical team at the hospital. One student expressed that it was an unforgettable experience witnessing the dedication and care provided by the medical team to children with chronic illnesses. Two of them expressed their eagerness to continue assisting and supporting others in the future.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Khru Kra-taew, Khru Jeab, and Khru Ploy for their unwavering support throughout this initiative. Additionally, we would like to offer a special thanks to Dr. Somruk Thongmeesee for generously providing RST students with the opportunity to join this internship and volunteer programme.
We are proud of our students' commitment to learning and their willingness to contribute to the community through experiences like these.
RST STUDENTS CONNECT WITH UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA'S GLOBAL RECRUITMENT TEAM
This week marked an exciting opportunity for RST students, as they met with Aninita Mahmud, International Student Recruiter/Advisor from the University of British Columbia (UBC). UBC, renowned globally for its academic excellence, innovative research, and inclusive community, stands as a beacon of global higher education.
UBC consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide. Its commitment to diversity and inclusivity creates a vibrant environment where students from diverse backgrounds thrive.
Canada's higher education system offers unparalleled benefits, providing students with a supportive learning environment, world-class faculty, and access to cutting-edge resources. Additionally, Canada's commitment to multiculturalism ensures that international students feel welcome and valued.
During the session, students had the invaluable opportunity to explore UBC's flexible programmes, tailored to individual interests and career goals. From humanities to sciences, engineering to business, UBC offers a diverse array of majors designed to meet the evolving needs of the global workforce.
Students also learned about UBC's generous scholarship provisions, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder access to quality education. These scholarships recognise academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community, empowering students to pursue their dreams without constraints.
With a focus on “best fit”, RST is committed to providing students with access to global institutions, so that they can identify a higher education pathway that is most suited to their higher education and career aspirations.
ROTC FIELD TRAINING SUCCESS MARKS RST'S HALF-TERM BREAK
During the last day before the half-term break and throughout the break itself, RST’s ROTC (RorDor) students showcased their resilience, leadership and dedication. Particularly noteworthy were the accomplishments of the second-year RorDor students, who excelled in the rigorous training regimen.
The training commenced with initial challenges, as students adapted to the pressures of military activities and endured a demanding two-night, three-day camping excursion. However, their perseverance paid off, demonstrating significant growth and competence in navigating physical and mental challenges.
As the 2023 academic year for our RorDor programme draws to a close, we reflect on the achievements of our students with pride. Looking ahead to the new academic year starting in July, we anticipate further successes and continued development within our ROTC programme.
Prep
Reminders
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
2nd MARCH
U11 & U13 Football (home)
U13 Basketball v Regents (away)
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)
5th MARCH: 15:00-18:00: Y3 & 4 Parent Teacher Meetings
6th MARCH: 15:00-18:00: Y3 & 4 Parent Teacher Meetings
7th MARCH:
World Book Day - Wear Pyjamas (or leisure wear if you prefer) and bring a favourite Book (PE/Swim kit as normal)
07:45-08:10: Book Sale at the Admin Building
16:00-17:45: Book Sale at the Admin Building
16:00-17:45: U13 Football v GIS (home)
9th MARCH:
ISB Swim Meet
U10 Football @STA Bangkok
U11 Touch Rugby @NIST
Highlights of the Week
YEAR 3
Our Year 3 students are coming to the end of their clay projects and have thoroughly enjoyed working with such a sensory medium.
They’ve learnt three different hand-building techniques and have used glazes to decorate their work. Seeing their faces light up with delight when they see their final pieces is priceless!
YEAR 4 THANK YOU LETTERS
Year 4 students wrote 'thank you' letters, following the Learner Profile week last term:
Pre-Prep
Reminders
RST RICE CHALLENGE
In February we have an exciting charity event coming to Rugby School Thailand and we would like you to participate in them to support the Hand to Hand Foundation. The Hand to Hand Foundation is a local charity based in Pattaya helping underprivileged people in our community that are entrapped by poverty and abuse.
Their lives are marked by a lack of adequate care, food, shelter and uncertainty about the future. Pre-Prep has a good relationship with the Hand to Hand Foundation having worked with them since 2018. We invite the children from their foundation to join us each Children’s Day and we regularly collect items for their communities.
This time the whole of RST is involved in this exciting project to support them.
We will have a Rice Challenge like we did last year. The rice will then be donated to Hand to Hand who will distribute it all over Thailand. At this moment they are providing people in need with 1.5 tons of rice per week. Margaret, the head of the Hand to hand Foundation will also come to Pre Prep to raise awareness about people in need in our community, and how much this rice donation means to them.
This challenge will also be a competition between the Key Stage 1 classes and Early Years to see which group in Pre-Prep can donate the most rice - there will also be a prize at the end.
We would like to encourage you to take part by sponsoring a bag of rice for your child to bring to School for the good cause. This is a whole School initiative and a competition to see which School can raise the most rice.
The rice will be collected outside the front gate - there will be a poster to clearly show the children where they can put their rice.
Thank you for your support!
MAD Juniors
Announcements
WORLD BOOK DAY - 7th MARCH
Parents can come and read with their children from 8 to 8:30 a.m.; a book day parade is open to parents at 8:30am, the second and new books are for sale from 3pm to 5pm. We are also collecting old books for donations, if you have any.
WORLD BOOK DAY DONATIONS
On World Book Day, the MAD Juniors will be collecting second-hand books to donate to the Hand to Hand Foundation. They are accepting any children's books. The preference for second-hand books is to demonstrate that books can be enjoyed multiple times, even after you've finished reading them. A second-hand book can bring immense joy to another child's life.
A collection box will be placed outside the Pre-Prep entrance on World Book Day for book donations.
Thank you for your support!
MAD Juniors
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to Miss Lauren who had her baby girl (Sunday) on 21st February. Sunday arrived a little earlier than expected but Mum and baby are both doing well. Sunday weighed 2929g and was born at 2:56am.
We send all our love and hope that Miss Lauren is enjoying her new journey as a Mummy.
Dates for Your Diary
4th MARCH: Reception bikes/scooters to School (please bring a helmet)
5th MARCH: E-Safety parent workshop- bring your devices in to make them safe. 8:30 am led by Mr Sethi and Mr Burkhill
6th MARCH: RECEPTION Reading and Phonics Workshop 8:30am led by Miss Debbie and Miss Sarah
7th MARCH: WORLD BOOK DAY - dress up as your favourite book character
12th MARCH: English as an Additional Language workshop (EAL) 8:30am led by Mr Jay Head of EAL
15th MARCH: School closed for EXEAT weekend
Highlights of the Week
100 DAYS OF SCHOOL
28th February was a very special day in the Oval as it was our 100th day of School and we celebrated in style.
We started our maths celebration day with a maths themed Wake and Shake, followed by lots of different maths activities in each year group. A special thank you to all our parents for helping to create so many creative costumes.
Useful Links
Enrichment
Enrichment
STOP MOTION
The next generation of Stop Motion Animators are in full swing with the planning stage of their final piece. They have 4 weeks to plan, resource, and execute their idea from concept to animation.
We can’t wait to see what they produce at the end!
Social Media and More
Keep up to date with all that's happening at RST, through these dedicated channels:
Instagram: