Term 1 - 06 September 2024

Matters of Principal

Whole School

MORNING TRAFFIC AND THE 3240
We realise that there are lots of problems and frustrations turning on or off the 3240 in the morning bringing your children to School.  We are constantly being let down by our security and traffic control providers and are working hard to try and address this temporarily and permanently for the future.  Please do bear with us as we try other options and have conversations with various agencies to see if we can get better support and traffic control here at key times of the day.

RSTPA UNIFORM SWAP
On Tuesday 10th and Thursday 12th September, the RSTPA will run a Uniform Swap in the Green Room from 15:30-17:45. You will receive a voucher if you hand in any clean and unmarked uniform. That voucher can then be exchanged for any second-hand uniform that you may need. Alternatively, items can be purchased and all proceeds will go towards the RSTMAD charities.

RSTPA COOKING CLASSES
A reminder of our popular RSTPA Cooking Classes which will be taking place again this term. The first one will be:

• Greece
• Monday 9th September
• 08:15-10.30
• Food Tech Room, Veraphan Building (Prep School)

There will be a small fee of 300 THB per session to cover the costs of ingredients and you will need to bring some empty containers to take your food away. We have a maximum of 24 places, so if you are interested please reserve your place scan the QR or contact: irbis2002@bk.ru / Line: Helen Cool / 0907694661. 

RSTPA CHARITY GOLF DAY
On Sunday 29^th September, the Parents' Association is hosting their annual RSTPA Charity Golf Day at Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club. It promises to be a brilliant day, with prizes and a raffle to be won. You can register as a team of four, or as an individual (individuals will be placed in a team nearer the time).

To register, please scan the QR code below or click here.

WISDOM FIT MEMBERSHIPS
Kick off the new term by rewarding yourself with a healthier, stronger body! 

Wisdom Fit Gym Membership Promotion:

• Existing Members - Renew your membership for only 15,000 THB (down from 18,000 THB)
• Sign Up as a Pair - Get an extra 10% OFF!
• Non-Members: Enjoy FREE classes throughout September!
• New Parents: Visit the gym and get 7 days free trial + a chance to win a FREE Personal Training Session and 1 month free membership!

Come and check us out on 2nd Floor, Webb Ellis Sport Centre.
DM us on Line: WisdomFit / @wisdomfit

DIGITAL LEARNING
Our latest advice around how to speak to your children about "AI friends" and "treating human beings as brands" is available here. Please see our Digital Wellbeing section of the Digital Learning website for more on the latest trends and advice.

Senior

SENIOR SCHOOL ASSEMBLY: BUILDING COMMUNITY AND STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE
In the first assembly of the term, Mr Groves, Head of Senior School, addressed the community on the three foundational values of Rugby School UK: Rootedness, Restlessness, and Rigour. It was emphasised that these principles not only define the School’s culture but also guide students in their personal growth and achievements.

The students were spoken to about the importance of rootedness, highlighting how connections within the School community create a strong foundation of support. It is through these connections, that students are able to navigate life’s challenges with resilience, knowing they are never alone.

The concept of rigour was also explored, drawing parallels with the dedication and discipline of Olympic athletes. Just as athletes strive towards their goals through perseverance, the students were encouraged to embrace rigour in their academic and personal pursuits, defining success on their own terms.

The assembly also celebrated student achievements with awards being presented to Sports Leaders and those excelling in LAMDA. Our talented D Block student, Rute, was recognised for placing in the top 25 of the FCDO Essay Writing Competition, while Pat was presented with his medal for finishing in the Top 50 of the UKMT Olympiad.

Additionally, the new Levée were introduced to the School and took the opportunity to share their top tips with fellow students, reinforcing the key messages of rigour and rootedness.

As the term begins, there is much to celebrate and look forward to within the School community, and we wish all students success as they work towards their goals with focus and determination.

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LOOKING AHEAD TO UNIVERSITY APPLICATIONS
Demonstrated interest plays a crucial role in the university application process, especially for global institutions that assess a student's engagement level when making admissions decisions. Universities want to know that you are genuinely interested in them, and they track your interactions to gauge your commitment. Our Higher Education team has compiled a list of the most relevant university events in September and October, which you can view here.

E BLOCK PARENT REP
We are looking for an E Block parent to join the RSTPA and be the parent rep. Please email the Head of Senior, Mr Groves if you are interested: rgroves@rugbyschool.ac.th 

SUNDAY 22nd SEPTEMBER: UNIVERSITY FAIR
Don't miss the Global University Fair in Pattaya on 22nd September! We are a proud partner of this excellent event, which brings together 100+ universities from around the world to talk to students about courses and applications.

To view the full list of universities attending, and to register, click here.

EXPLORING HIGHER EDUCATION IN CANADA
During the summer break, our Head of Higher Education & Careers, Mrs Cecil, travelled to Canada to take a deeper dive into Higher Education over there. She attended some inspiring and insightful events, such as the International ACAC Conference (IACAC) at Western University in Ontario, which was a fantastic opportunity to discover more about the unique aspects of applying to Canadian universities. She was also shown around some of the top universities, including the University of Calgary, which proudly holds the title as Canada's top university for creating startups!

If your child is interested in exploring university options in Canada, speak to our Higher Education team and watch out for our Spotlight on Higher Education in Canada this October.

Prep

WORLD SCHOLARS' CUP: BANGKOK GLOBAL ROUND
Having qualified with flying colours from the Regional Round in March, eight Prep students have just begun the Global Round in Bangkok. Students from all corners of the world descend on Bangkok for this celebration of difference and togetherness. This includes the Competitive Events such as debating, collaborative writing, multiple choice individual tests and lively team quizzes.

In addition to honing every one of their Learner Profile skills in competition (and hopefully winning some medals) today they teamed up with students from all over the world to do an epic scavenger hunt in a theme park! Other Community Events coming up include a Scholars Talent Showcase, Debate Showcase and evening events such as the Cultural Fair, where the different schools set up stalls to celebrate their home countries.

Last year, we played board games with Indonesians, ate Indian snacks, heard Kenyan singing and dancing and even learnt about life in Poland, Rwanda and Kazakhstan. Our Year 8 competitors, Marla, Cher, Daivik, Sun, Si Hyun, Talia and Mirabella have worked tirelessly for many months to learn a complex curriculum and practise for the events, so we wish them all the luck in the world!

LAMDA
Huge congratulations to all of our LAMDA students for achieving either a Merit or a Distinction in their Entry, Grade 1 or Grade 2 LAMDA exams. We are all very proud.

PREP MUSIC RECITAL: THURSDAY 3rd OCTOBER
Enrollment is now open for the first Music Recital of the academic year. This recital is open to all Prep students who learn an instrument and have a piece ready to perform. Signing up for a recital is a great motivator for students to practise and playing in front of an audience can help develop their confidence and performance skills. Register your child by clicking this link or scanning the QR code. Registrations will close on Thursday 19th September. 

KEY DATES
Please find the updated document of key dates for Term 1. Our SOCS calendar will also be useful for checking events throughout the year to ensure you remain up to date. You can also find a document of key dates for the year ahead.

PREP MUSIC IMPORTANT DATES
Please find a calendar of events for Prep Music. 

COFFEE MORNINGS
Our coffee mornings will continue this year. Below is a poster for the first presentation and meeting that will be hosted by Mr Howell.

7th SEPTEMBER:
Saturday Enrichment and Sport Programme (please check SOCS)
10:15 - U13 Basketball v Rayong Wittayakom Paknam (WEC)

9th SEPTEMBER:
World Scholars
08:10-11:00 - Year 6 Outdoor Education Centre Morning
08:15-10:30 - RSTPA Cooking Club - Greece (Food Tech Room of the Veraphan Building)

10th SEPTEMBER:
15:30-17:45 - RSTPA Uniform Swap (Green Room)
16:00 - U9 Football v REPS (Away)  
17:00-18:00 - IOP Trial 1 (Music Room)

12th SEPTEMBER:
08:10-11:00 - Year 5 Outdoor Education Centre Morning
15:30-17:45 - RSTPA Uniform Swap (Green Room)

13th SEPTEMBER:
14:30-15:30 - RSTPA Book Club (Library)
16:00 - U13 Basketball v REPS (Home)

14th SEPTEMBER:
Saturday Enrichment and Sport Programme (please check SOCS)
08:30 - U13 Basketball v Rayong Wittayakom Paknam (WEC)

YEAR 5 CIRCUS IMMERSION
The energy in the air was high last week as Year 5 English students made their way to the Black Box Theatre to experience the wonder of the circus. Tickets were collected and the smell of popcorn filled the air along with a sense of anticipation and wonder. Students watched in awe as performers from Australia, China, France and Cambodia leapt, balanced and tumbled their way across the screen. Using descriptive language conventions, students later expressed their thoughts and feelings about the whole experience - recalling how their entire body reacted to the performance. What an exciting way to introduce our Term 1 English learning!

Pre-Prep

SUMMER POSTCARDS
Thank you to all our students who sent in a postcard of their summer holidays. It has been brilliant to see and read all about some of the amazing places that were visited including countries as far as America and Canada. Postcards will continue to be added onto the display near the Soft Play Room for everyone to see.

SETTLING INTO EYFS
Wow, what an amazing second week our students have had in Early Years. The children in Pre-Nursery, Nursery and Reception have all been very eager to explore their new classrooms and meet all of their teachers and friends. They have launched into their year group topics and are beginning their learning journey. The topic in Pre-Nursery is 'All About Me', while Nursery are diving into the topic of 'Marvellous Me' and Reception are learning all about their topic of 'Understanding My Feelings'. Remember, if you want to keep up with your child's learning in School, you can visit the EYFS Curriculum Website. Everyone is looking forward to all the fun, learning, and excitement that will be had in the year ahead.

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SETTLING INTO KEY STAGE 1
The children in Key Stage 1 have had a great start to the School year. They have all settled in well and are enjoying their learning in every lesson. They have been busy working together, trying new foods at lunchtime, playing, and getting creative. All the staff and students are very excited about what will no doubt be an amazing year and are Proud Peacocks of how well they have settled into School routines and made new friends. Well done to our Rhinos, Kangaroos, Dolphins, Hedgehogs, Turtles, Flamingoes, Sharks, and Ducks.

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ILLNESS
Sick children should be kept at home in order to help prevent the spread of germs. It is natural for children to get sick when they first start School or when they return from a big holiday. We are ensuring that our classrooms and bathrooms are disinfected daily and that sick children are sent home.

RSTPA MEETING
We will hold our first RSTPA meeting of the year on Friday, 27th September. If you have any questions or items that you wish to raise please message your representative.

UNIFORM
Please ensure that all your child's clothing and shoes including Swimming, PE and Ballet clothes, are clearly labelled with their name. We have a Lost Property box outside the Office which parents are welcome to look through for any missing items.

9th - 13th SEPTEMBER:
Year 2 Bring your bikes/scooters to School week. Please bring a helmet in order to use the bike track. Students may leave their bikes here for the week.

10th SEPTEMBER:
08:30 - Nursery Curriculum Morning in your child's classroom

19th SEPTEMBER: Wai Kru Celebrations

20th SEPTEMBER: School closed for EXEAT weekend 

23rd - 27th SEPTEMBER: 
Year 2 Bring your bikes/scooters to School week. Please bring a helmet in order to use the bike track. Students may leave their bikes here for the week.

25th SEPTEMBER:
LITTLE TALK-Year 1 and 2 parents are invited to bring their child's device to School so that we can set the correct safety features for your child.

27th SEPTEMBER: RSTPA meet with SMT

COMMON SENSE MEDIA
Common Sense Media is an invaluable tool for parents navigating the digital landscape. It empowers you to make informed decisions about the movies, TV shows, apps, and games your children engage with. 
By providing detailed age ratings and comprehensive reviews, Common Sense Media helps you understand the content your child is exposed to, fostering a safe and enriching media environment. It's not just about restrictions; it's about open communication and informed choices.

Boarding Life

RUPERT BROOKE & SCHOOL HOUSE
Our full boarders in Rupert Brooke and School House spent a wonderful evening down at the Outdoor Education Centre this weekend. A 15 minute walk beneath a starry sky found them at the campfire, where they sang songs and chatted with hot chocolate and s'mores; it was the perfect change of tempo after a busy first week back at School.

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Sport and Enrichment

SATURDAY ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME (SEP)
Last Saturday marked the exciting launch of our Saturday Enrichment Programme, which offers students the chance to explore new interests and develop valuable skills. We currently offer a range of activities such as Yoga for beginners, Muay Thai and Self-Defence, as well as Creative Art, and Recreational Sports. There is even a Master Chef Cookery course that students can get involved in. As the programme continues to grow, we’re thrilled to introduce even more hands-on Arts and Crafts sessions, Zumba classes, and adventurous Bushcraft activities.

RST CHRONICLE
We have published our first newspaper edition of the year! Our team has grown from four to six members and we will be publishing weekly. Inside our first edition, you will find a wide-range of interesting topics that the children have researched and written about, so we are positive that you will find something that interests you. Please remember to scan the QR code by the comic strip to share all opinions on the paper. Be sure to look out for a new edition each week.

You can read our first edition of the RST Chronicle here. 

Community Events

FOREST SCHOOL TRAINING
The Forest School approach to learning fosters holistic development, building resilience, confidence, and creativity in children, which aligns seamlessly with Rugby School Thailand's ethos: The Whole Person, The Whole Point. The School's Outdoor Education Centre (OEC) is the perfect location to learn the key principles of the Forest School approach. This is why we host Forest School training for teachers, outdoor education specialists and institutes from around Thailand. Our next Forest School Training at Rugby School Thailand will take place this October and is a Level 3 training course designed for those who want to lead and inspire through outdoor learning.

Please see the link below for more information. 

Social Media and More

Keep up to date with all that's happening at RST via our social media channels and our website blog section.