Term 1 - 19 September 2024

Matters of Principal

Whole School

BLOOD DONATION DRIVE
The School's Health Centre, in collaboration with Chonburi Regional Hospital, is organising a blood donation drive and is inviting friends and families of the RST community to register as a donor. Please read the qualifying criteria to check whether you may be eligible to donate.
If you are qualified, and would like to register as a donor, please scan the QR below or click here.
Once details are finalised, you will be contacted using the information provided on the registration form. 

Registration is open until 5pm on Friday, 27th September.

RSTPA COOKING CLASS
The next session of our popular cooking class will take place on Monday, 7th October, where we will taste the best of England. If you would like to attend, please reserve your place by scanning the QR or contact: irbis2002@bk.ru / Line: Helen Cool / 0907694661. 

RSTPA CHARITY GOLF DAY
All places have now been booked for the annual RSTPA Charity Golf Day at Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club. Thank you so much for your support. 
 
We are now operating a waitlist. To be added on to this list please scan the QR code below or click here.

INTERNATIONAL DAY
We're looking for parents to bring a taste of their home country to our International Day Food Market on Friday, 18^th October.

The Food Market has become a real highlight of our International Day celebrations, giving the community a true 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.

OPERATION SMILE MEDICAL MISSION
Six of our Senior students recently embarked on a transformative journey to Sisaket, Thailand, as part of the Operation Smile Medical Mission. This week-long experience provided them with a unique opportunity to contribute to a global cause and gain invaluable insights into the medical field.

From the moment they arrived, our students were immersed in the heartwarming atmosphere of the medical mission. They assisted in various tasks, including preparing gift bags for patients, decorating the children's ward, and providing comfort and support to patients and their families. The highlight of the week was undoubtedly their interactions with the medical professionals, including the renowned Dr Apichai Angspatt. Through interviews and observations, our students learned about the challenges and rewards of working in the field of plastic surgery and the importance of compassion and empathy in patient care.

Beyond the medical aspects, the mission also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among our students and the other volunteers. Together, they shared laughter, music, and cultural experiences, creating lasting memories. This week-long experience has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on our students, inspiring them to continue making a positive difference in the world.

You can read more about their experience in our blog post here. 

Senior

PARENT INFORMATION SESSION
On Friday, we held our first Senior Parent Information session of the year which was presented by Ms Claire Cecil, Head of Higher Education and Careers, where parents were provided with updates on Higher Education. You can find the full presentation here.

Our next Parent Information session will be held on Friday, 11th October. This will be a talk about IELTs, SATs, and how the School supports students.

2024 LECTURE SERIES - UNIVERSITY GUIDANCE
There is still time to register for the fantastic workshop with Glion Institute of Higher Education and Les Roches Global Hospitality Education. A reminder that this event is open to students and parents in F Block and above. 
Please see the below poster for more information.

CIS INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY FAIR
Date: 20th September 2024
Time: 17:00–19:30 
Location: Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok

For more information and to register, click here. 

SUNDAY 22nd SEPTEMBER: UNIVERSITY FAIR
The Global University Fair is taking place in Pattaya this Sunday, 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.

20th SEPTEMBER:
School closed for EXEAT weekend

25th SEPTEMBER:
Educational Visit: Anek Kusala Trip

27 SEPTEMBER:
15.00-16.00: Senior School RSTPA meeting

PSYCHOLOGY AND BIOLOGY BRAIN DAY
On Monday, we had the privilege to welcome Dr Guy Sutton, Director of Medical Biology Interactive (MBI) to host 'Brain Day' for all of our A Level Psychology and Biology students. The workshop was a one-day introductory tutorial in neuroscience where our students delved into the functions of sleep, the impact of drugs on the brain, and the latest advancements in brain research. Of course, the most popular part of the day was the hands-on dissection of a sheep brain which provided a tangible (and slightly messy) understanding of brain structure. This popular day offered a captivating glimpse into the fascinating world of neuroscience for our students and we hope to welcome Dr Sutton to our School again in the future.

UC MERCED ADMISSIONS VISIT 
Earlier this week, we were honoured to host Mandy Loh, International Admissions Advisor at the University of California, Merced (UC Merced), who led an insightful lunchtime seminar for our students in the Collingwood Centre. To read more about the seminar and to learn about UC Merced, please click here. 

UAL VISIT
On Monday, we welcomed representatives from the University of the Arts London (UAL), led by Ms. Rosie Cumber. The lunchtime seminar was an exciting opportunity for students with aspirations in the creative industries to engage directly with one of the world’s leading art schools. To read more about the seminar and to learn about UAL, please click here. 

Prep

RSTPA UNIFORM SWAP
Huge thanks to our RSTPA reps Alena (F Block) and Angelique (Year 7) for organising another successful uniform swap. A total number of 117 pre-loved uniforms were handed in and 95 pieces were exchanged. The event raised 4,400THB which will go into the RSTPA Charity Fund. 

HOUSE CAPTAINS' ASSEMBLIES
Our House Captains recently took centre stage by leading assemblies for their respective Houses. Arnold, Beauclerc, Webb Ellis and Hardy each had the opportunity to learn more about the history and significance of their namesakes. The captains introduced themselves, sharing interesting facts about their House history and values, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among their fellow House members.

To add a touch of fun and excitement, the captains organised an exciting game of charades. Students enthusiastically participated, showcasing their creativity and acting skills. The winners of the game will be announced at the end of term, keeping the suspense and anticipation high.

These House assemblies not only provide valuable insights into the rich heritage of each House but also help to create a platform for student leadership and engagement. We commend our House Captains for their initiative and look forward to more exciting events in the future.

CREATIVE CLAY
This week in our after-School activities students were getting creative with clay by using shaping and molding skills to make their own unique creations. This activity is such a fun way to learn about art and for students to express themselves through their individual clay creations. The finished pieces will be proudly displayed in the School for all to see. 

PREP MUSIC RECITAL: THURSDAY 3rd OCTOBER
This is your last opportunity to register your child 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. Register your child by clicking this link or scanning the QR code. Registrations will close today. 

RSTPA PREP REP MEETING
On Friday, 27th September, we will hold our first RSTPA Prep Meeting of the year from 08:00-09:00. Please submit your suggestions and areas of improvement as well as any positive experiences to your year group representatives. Together we can make a difference. If you are unsure about who your rep is, please see below. We would also like to offer a warm welcome to our new reps joining us this year. 

PREP SCHOOL COFFEE MORNINGS
A reminder of the upcoming dates for Prep School Coffee Mornings. 

20th SEPTEMBER:
School closed for EXEAT weekend

23rd SEPTEMBER:
08:15-09:00: Year 5-8 Coffee Morning
(Mr Howell will introduce our new Student Code of Conduct - BE RST)

25th SEPTEMBER:
08:15-09:00: Year 3 Coffee Morning
(Mr Howell will introduce our new Student Code of Conduct - BE RST)

27th SEPTEMBER:
08:00-09:00: RSTPA Meeting in the Boardroom

28th SEPTEMBER:
Please see SOCS for our Saturday Enrichment Programme, Sport Programme and Fixtures.
BISA Swim Meet (away)
U13 Boys Basketball v STA Flames (away)
U9 Football v Planet (home)
U11 Boys Football v Planet (home)
U11 Girls Football Tournament (away)

YEAR 5 SCIENCE
Our Year 5 scientists have been digging deep into the topic of habitats over the past week. Our students have been studying rice paddies in Thailand and have even had a go at creating their own habitats. They were also give the opportunity to engage in some public speaking by presenting their research ideas to the class. This has proved to be a very enjoyable topic and we look forward to seeing where this learning journey will take our young scientists in the weeks to come. 

WORLD SCHOLARS' CUP GLOBAL ROUND
Eight Prep students embarked on an academic and cultural adventure to the Global Round of the World Scholars' Cup in Bangkok earlier this month. The trip was led by Mr Stoker, who has documented the array of fantastic challenges our students took part in to qualify for the Tournament of Champions at Yale University in November. You can read all about it here. 

Pre-Prep

SETTLING INTO SCHOOL ROUTINE
It is week 4 of the new term and everyone is beginning to settle into the routines of School now. It is lovey to see how independent some of the children are when coming in by themselves. We ask that Year 1 and 2 children are dropped off at the gate and make their own way to their classrooms. If any Reception children feel that they also want to do the same, they are absolutely welcome to, although this is not an expectation.

PHONICS FUN IN RECEPTION
Our Reception classes have begun their phonics journey focusing on the sounds of 'S' and 'A'. The children engaged in a variety of activities, including fine motor exercises, creative art projects, and interactive games. There was also lots of practice writing the letters in a variety of styles and reinforcing phonetic skills in a fun and dynamic way. 

CAR PARK
Please ensure that the drop off zone is only used to drop your children off at School, which should be no more than a two-minute procedure. Unless you are a wheelchair-using family or it is a birthday, please adhere to this system or you will be asked to move on by either security or Miss Sarah. Please also note the car park is a one way system. By following these procedures, we can work together to create a more efficient experience for our parents.

SAFE DRIVING
Please ensure that all children and adults are wearing seatbelts inside vehicles. We have witnessed children sitting in the front seats without seatbelts on. It is now a requirement that all drivers and passengers wear their seatbelts. The children are also being taught about the importance of this at School.

SMOKING ON SITE
This is a polite reminder that the School site is a no-smoking zone. Several drivers have been seen smoking directly outside Pre-Prep and the Assembly Hall in sight of children and families. The entire School site is a no-smoking zone and we would appreciate your help in keeping the children in a safe, smoke-free environment. 

23rd - 27th SEPTEMBER: 
Year 1 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

2nd OCTOBER:
EYFS Little Talk- Makaton sign language

11th OCTOBER:
Parent Teacher Settling in meetings (more information will be released shortly)

14th OCTOBER:
School Closed H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great Memorial Day

18th OCTOBER:
International Day

MAD JUNIORS
Congratulations to the new Pre-Prep MAD Juniors for this term. They have some very exciting new ideas to help make a difference in our School and in our community. We are very excited to see what they will achieve.

Boarding Life

BOARDERS BARBECUE FUN
Moody skies and a rumbling storm didn’t dampen the spirit at our pre-Exeat barbecue for the boarders! Our boarders always love the pre-Exeat barbecue, where all the boarding houses, Houseparents, Matrons and Tutors, gather for an al fresco supper. 

Sport and Enrichment

LET THE GAMES BEGIN
Last weekend offered our first real glimpse of sporting action as we played host to 16 teams for a fabulous extravaganza of Basketball in the WEC. A mixture of both local and international schools from Bangkok ensured an entertaining event for the U13 and U15 Boys. Our teams proudly displayed their skills and most importantly grit as they went head-to-head in each game with true RST Lightning spirit. Beyond the results, it was incredible to see all of the elements that our coaches are instilling being shown on the court through their techniques and behaviours. 

Well done to all four teams, and to the U15 boys who were undefeated on the day to win the title.

In Football news, our Varsity Footballers were also in action in their second game of the season as they took on another local team. There were lots of goals scored and the whole team had a real fitness boost as they also came out victorious. 

This week also marked the start of the ESAC season with fixtures taking place with Regents International School Pattaya. So far, our teams have acquitted themselves well and competed hard. Well done to all involved.

Over this coming weekend, we wish the Lightning Swimmers (more than 30 of them!) the best of luck as they go head-to-head with NIST in a dual meet here at RST. 

Community Events

CHRISTMAS CAMP 2024
Our Christmas Camp will take place from 15th-21st December 2024 and is available for 7 to 12-year-olds. It is one of the most sought after holiday camps in Thailand offering unique and enriching activities which take place almost exclusively on the School's campus. 

For more information or to register your child for this fantastic opportunity, please head to our website.

KIDZOONA VOUCHERS
We have kindly been given some Kidzoona vouchers to share with the RST community, so please visit the main reception if you would like one.

• 2 hours free
• Kidzoona, Central SiRacha
• Valid until 30th September

PORTAL VR PATTAYA
We have kindly been offered an exclusive 20% discount for the RST community at the Portal VR Arena in Pattaya. Please show your RST ID card at the venue to avail of this exclusive offer. 

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.