The Al Yasmina School held its annual GCSE presentation ceremony to honor its second cohort of GCSE students. The students achieved exceptional GCSE results that surpassed their own predicted grades and UK averages. At the ceremony, the Head of School proudly presented certificates to the high achieving students as they begin their post-16 studies. The event celebrated the students' hard work and provided an opportunity for parents to socialize ahead of the presentation.

1. AL YASMINA ABU DHABI Connect issue 3
SCHOOL Bloom 2012/2013
Grow
Learn
Nurture
Play
THE SECONDARY
PARTNERSHIP
AL YASMINA SCHOOL STRIVES TO BE AN
OUTSTANDING INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY
SCHOOL, MAXIMISING THE LEARNING
POTENTIAL OF ALL

2. WELCOME
Welcome to the third issue of the Secondary PARTnership The Secondary PARTnership keeps you up-to-date with
for the 2012/2013 academic year. The Secondary student activities across the secondary department. It
PARTnership is the publication for Al Yasmina's also gives Al Yasmina School the chance to celebrate
secondary school and is published eight times a year. progress and achievement and provide more in depth
Look for previous issues on the school website. information to parents on a wide variety of subjects.
We welcome your feedback.
communications@alyasmina.sch.ae
CONTENTS
WELCOME From the HEAD OF SCHOOL 3
NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS 4
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES 9
GCSE AWARDS CEREMONY 10
RAGS TO RICHES AUTHOR VISITS SCHOOL 11
WOW FACTOR IN SCIENCE LESSONS 12
PREPARING YEAR 8 STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE 14
HOUSE CAPTAINS ELECTED 15
FESTIVE FAYRE ON SATURDAY 16
EXPERT HELP FOR ENTERPRISE STUDENTS 17
DEBATING SUCCESS 19
ART IN THE STAIRWELLS 20
POST-16 LEADERSHIP TEAM 21
STUDENT VOICE ELECTIONS 22
OUTSTANDING SUCCESS FOR O'SHEA SIBLINGS 23
SNIPPETS 25
The third PARTnership for this academic year
Topics, trends, updates, views and news from the Al Yasmina Secondary Department
Pictured on the cover: REACTION: Curriculum Team Leader for Science, Mr Donald demonstrates how much energy there is in coffee whitener
(glucose, lactose and other sugars) by putting it onto a blow torch during a lesson on combustion and respiration. 2

3. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL, MR GALE
National Day is one of the most important days on the UAE’s
calendar, and for Al Yasmina School it was a day when everyone
in our school community joined together to celebrate the
birth of the nation. And celebrate we did, with music, food,
traditional dancers, falcon handlers and our own souk, with
local crafts, food, henna - even a camel. The school field was
transformed into a sea of colour and sound as all our students,
from the very youngest to our Post-16 students, took part in
the celebrations. It was a proud moment for the school, as we
celebrated UAE culture, heritage, values and identity. It was a
time for us to reflect how far the country has come in the past
41 years. This journey was fresh in the minds of our Year 7, 8
and 9 UAE Social Studies students, who had heard first-hand
about the transformation that has taken place in the country by
Mohammed Al-Fahim, author of Rags to Riches (see page 10).
The festive fayre is organised by FOY (Friends of Al Yasmina)
Pride was an overwhelming feeling on National Day - and,
and it is a huge undertaking. FOY is a small group of extremely
as you will all know, pride is one of the school’s core values.
dedicated, hardworking parents. They are very keen for new
The sense of pride I have in the school is always present, and
members to join them. Contact them on alyasminafoy@gmail.
never more so than this month as I have been working my
com.
way through the secondary classrooms, observing what I can
only describe as outstanding classroom practice. I’ve watched
Next term, our annual parent questionnaire will be extended
as teachers engaged students; I saw ideas spark, animated
to include the Secondary PARTnership. We are keen to
discussions and students learning in a creative, stimulating
find out if the articles in this publication are meeting your
environment.
needs. Al Yasmina’s secondary school is a busy, exciting
place and we want to share as much of this with you as we
It was a special day for our Year 12 students last week, when
can. We are continuing to improve our communication with
the school held its annual GCSE presentation ceremony
stakeholders and I hope you will all make time to look at the
(pictures and story on page 9). This group represents our
live demonstration of the School Communicator ahead of its
second cohort of GCSE students, and, as you will all know,
soft launch on 6 January. http://www.six-delta.com/schools/
Al Yasmina School recorded exceptional GCSE results, with
interactive_demo.html
the majority of students convincingly surpassing their UK
counterparts, beating their own predicted grades and achieving
I hope you enjoy this issue of The Secondary PARTnership. In
an impressive rate of progress in core subjects. The results
keeping with our themes for each issue, we take a closer look
also came out tops when compared to other established British
at activities in the French and Science Departments. Due to the
curriculum schools in Abu Dhabi. So it was with a great sense
holiday, the next issue of The Secondary PARTnership is on
of pride that I presented certificates to this group of achievers,
1 February. The theme for this issue is Arabic and Music. These
who are now applying the same level of commitment to their
are two dynamic departments that have much to showcase.
Post-16 studies.
School closes for the term on 13 December at noon and term
two begins for students on 6 January. Many of our families will
We are now moving rapidly towards the end of the term and
be travelling in December. Travel safely and I look forward to
the beginning of a new year. Reports will be available online
seeing you all back again next term.
on Wednesday. I hope parents sit down with their children to
discuss the results and digest the comments and use these to
move forward with real purpose when students return to school “National Day is one of the most
for the second term. New Year is a time for resolutions. Make important days on the UAE’s calendar,
sure you all remember to include your school goals when the
clock strikes midnight! December is always a busy month. The
and for Al Yasmina School it was a
key events for the school are the festive fayre on Saturday, the day when everyone in our school
festive concert next Monday and the following night the very community joined together to
popular WOW Factor features again this year. I hope you all celebrate the birth of the nation.”
support these events. 3

4. NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS

5. r
AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
OVERWHELMING DISPLAY
OF NATIONAL PRIDE
National Day at Al Yasmina was a spectacle of UAE identity, culture, colour
and character as the entire school community came together to celebrate the
founding of the UAE 41 years ago. Students were in UAE National dress or in
the colours from the UAE flag, turning the sports field into a mass of black,
green, white and red and at one point, a human formation of the UAE flag. The
day began formally with secondary students taking a major role in recitals
from the Quran, the raising of the UAE flag, taking the Oath of Loyalty to the
UAE Leaders and poetry recitals. All parents and visitors joined students
and staff in singing the UAE National Anthem in Arabic as the UAE flag was
raised. The sentiments expressed in the anthem set the theme for the day’s
celebration, the event coordinator, Mr Abu Saleh says. A speech by Head of
School, Mr Gale, who spoke in Arabic, delighted the Arabic members of the
crowd, who clapped in delight as he extended his greetings and best wishes to
the UAE Leaders and citizens in their native tongue.
Mr Abu Saleh believes it may be the first time ever a non-Arabic Head of
school has made a National Day address in Arabic. The school’s primary
playground was transformed into a charity souk for the day, with food and
traditional craft stalls while Yola dancing and the Police Musical Band kept the
crowds entertained, with Scottish bagpipes. The entertainment moved indoors
in the afternoon with folk dancing and games, a patriotic operetta and drama,
Na’sh dancing, singing and a traditional dress fashion show. Adding to the
flavour of the day were displays, including accounts from students on what it
meant to them to call the UAE home. Winners of 41st National Day challenge
for parents and staff were also announced on the day.
The competition for staff required them to learn 41 Arabic phrases, while
41 parents were quizzed on 41 facts about the UAE’s history, geography,
culture, society and heritage. Both groups had to complete their answers in 41
minutes. First place in the non native speaking quiz was Dr George Markou,
who says he entered to show his children the importance of volunteering and
participation. The second prize was bagged by Mrs Boby Tariq while the third
place was shared by Mrs Yasmin Yatim and Mrs Manisha Bharat. First prize
for the Arabic speakers went to Mrs Raweya Al-Shamsi and the second went
to her husband Mr Khaled Al-Shekaili, who got just one question wrong - the
date oil was discovered in the UAE. He opted for the mid 1950s, although the
correct answer was the early 1960s. “I should have been aware of that,” Mr Al-
Shekaili, a petroleum engineer, said wryly. Mrs Tala won the third prize in the
native speakers’ category. The Modern Foreign Languages staff dominated the
staff contest, with French teachers Mrs Mansoor, Mr Davies and Mr Candaner
taking the three top places.
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6. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
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7. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
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8. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
NATIONAL ANTHEM OF THE UAE
‘Ishiy biladiy ‘ashat-tihadu ‘Imaratina Long live my country, Long live the Union of our Emirates,
‘ishti li-sh’abin You will live long for a Nation
Dinuhul-‘islamu hadyu-hul-Qur’anu Whose religion is Islam and guide is the Qur’an
ḥasṣnatuka bismillahi ya waṭan I protect you in Allah’s name, oh homeland
Biladiy Biladiy Biladiy Biladiy My country, My country, My country, My country
ḥamakil-‘ilahu shururaz- zaman God has protected you from the evils of the time
’aqsamna ’an nabniya n‘amal We have sworn in to build and work
n‘amal nukḫliṣ n‘amal nukḫliṣ Work sincerely, work sincerely
mahma ‘ishna nukhliṣ nukhliṣ As long as we are alive, we will be sincerely dedicated
Damal-’amanu wa ’ashal-‘alam ya May the safety permanently prevail and the flag live longer
‘Imaratina oh our Emirates
ramzul ‘urubati The symbol of the Arabism
kulluna nafdiki bid-dima nurwiki We all sacrifice ourselves for you; with our blood saturate you
nafdika bil-arwaḥ ya waṭan We sacrifice for you our souls oh homeland
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9. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
MODERN FOREIGN
LANGUAGES
LE SPECTACLE C’EST Français...
PARIS Year 11 students can get extra help with their French speaking
skills ahead of their speaking exam at the end of the year by
taking part in the IGCSE French club every Wednesday from
A language and cultural trip to Paris will be offered to students 2.30pm - 3.30pm. Students work on their pronunciation and
in Years 9-12 next March. Trip organiser, French teacher Mrs building sentences for potential questions. Students work in
Mansoor, says the visit will encourage communication in small groups or one-to-one. Mrs Mansoor says students who
French and students will be able to practice and expand their have attended this class have improved their grades and their
knowledge of the language during the trip. “By hearing and confidence in speaking the language.
being immersed in French, the students’ knowledge of the
language will be improved, and their confidence in French will .....y Español
increase,”she says. “The trip will be especially beneficial for
Key Stage 4 and 5 students as being in Paris during the run up Smatterings of Spanish may start to appear in classrooms
to their exams will be a massive confidence boost for them.” throughout the secondary school, thanks to Spanish lessons
She says while the focus of the trip is educational, students will being held for staff after school each Wednesday. The classes
also take part in leisure activities, including shopping and a trip are held each week by Spanish teacher Mr Rodic who says the
to Disneyland. The six day trip will give students the opportunity group of staff are working at a basic level although some have
to experience many of the cultural aspects of Parisian life had some exposure to the language in the past. He says those
and visit some of the famous landmarks of the French capital. who attend simply want to learn another language; some have
Details are still being finalised, but highlights are likely to holiday homes in Spain and the lessons are designed to help
include the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, Chateau Versailles, them get by in a Spanish-speaking country. “The hope is that
the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, a walk down the Champs the teachers in the group can use some of the language in their
Elysees, a cruise on the Seine, and last, but not least, the own lessons, hence providing a more realistic experience for the
Disneyland visit. Mrs Mansoor says other venues may be added children who also study Spanish in the school,” Mr Rodic says.
to the itinerary. The final price has yet to be established as it “It will hopefully boost the status of the language in the school.”
will depend on flight and accommodation costs but it is likely
to be in the vicinity of around 8500dhs, she says. The trip is
being organised by North Star, which provides educational and
cultural adventures for young people.
USING MOVIES TO
AFTER SCHOOL MASTER LANGUAGE
LANGUAGE CLASSES A film club to help all secondary students studying French and
Spanish improve their comprehension skills is being launched
at the school in January. Year 10 student Milan Den Hause says
three French films and one Spanish film will be shown each
month, and a variety of different genres will be on offer. Milan
says the films will be especially valuable for GCSE language
students looking for every opportunity to improve their French
and Spanish ahead of their examinations. Rewinding parts of
the film if students are having trouble following the storyline is
an option. “This will enable us to keep following the plot if we
are watching films without subtitles,” he says.
ONLINE PEN PAL
PROGRAMME
A pen pal programme will be launched next term, enabling
students to correspond with other students at more than 200
schools around the world via the e-pals global community.
The scheme will be piloted with Year 7 Spanish students. Stay
posted for more information. http://www.epals.com.
IMPROVING FRENCH SPEAKING SKILLS: Left to right: Laura Tibi
(sitting), Bilqees Achmat, Clara Ziada and Luke Read.
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10. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
HARD WORK PAYS OFF: Year 12 Students at the GCSE presentation evening. CELEBRATION: Parents mingling ahead of the GCSE presentation
ceremony. Photos from left: 1. Mrs Mather (left), Mrs Hughes and Mr Mather. 2. Mrs Wilcox-Staines (left) and Mrs Rees. 3. Mrs Thompson (left) and
Mrs Simpson. 4. Mrs Alexander (left), Jon Alexander and Mrs Brundan
GCSE AWARDS EVENING
After all the hard work, it was time for celebration as Year 12 students and their parents headed out last week for the GCSE awards
presentation evening. The occasion began with canapés and conversation before the formal part of the proceedings began. Subject,
achievement and attainment awards were handed out to students in 15 categories. Recipients of the Head of School awards were
Priyanka Iyer, Shahmir Khan, Holly Young, Wynona Bautista, Lana Zuhair, Joshua Brundan, Abigail Alexander, Nicola Burgess, Emily
Simpson, Karim Saleh Abdel Latif and Joseph Sturt.
10

11. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
AUTHOR’S VISIT ENTHRALLS STUDENTS
Mohammed Al-Fahim’s book Rags to Riches, a personal
account of the changes that have occurred in the UAE
over the past 30 years, has captivated readers since it
was first published in 1995. This month, it was the turn
of Al Yasmina School’s UAE Social Studies students
in Years 7, 8 and 9 to be mesmerised by the author
and businessman’s descriptions of the UAE’s rapid
transformation from an impoverished Bedouin society to a
country with one of the highest per capita incomes in the
world.
Mr Al-Fahim’s first visit to the school was part of a UAE
Social Studies curriculum enrichment programme. He
says the enthusiastic response from the Al Yasmina
students is a typical audience reaction, but it always
surprises him. “I really don’t think they will grasp the
difference between what it was like and today but I am
always amazed at their intelligence and their knowledge
in taking into account and grasping of feeling of the
deprivation that we went through in the early days of our
lives here and how things changed,” he said after his
presentation. “The change is phenomenal, if you see the
old pictures, but they are the same people who moved
from the 16th century to the 20th century in a matter of
one generation.”
Accompanying Mr Al-Fahim was Dr Patrick Dougherty
from Higher Colleges of Technology who was responsible
for retelling the story for children. Dr Dougherty talked
about how and why the story was written and encouraged
students to keep an account of their own history for future
generations. Mr Al-Fahim believes the openness of the
Emirati people to other cultures is the reason they have
adapted so well so such monumental change within such
a short time-frame.“Emirati people have always been
open to visitors. We had different people visiting, starting
with the English in the early century and then the different
nationalities. We did not resist on grounds of religion and
instead opened our homes for the visitors. That enabled
us to accept change much easier than others who resisted
mixing with visitors and other nationalities. That’s why
today we don’t talk about people as being Hindus, or
Christians, or Muslim - people are people. Their religion
or nationality does not mean much to us, instead we treat
with mutual respect and allow them to coexist peacefully.”
BRINGING THE PAST TO LIFE: Left to right: Al Yasmina’s THE PAST IN PERSPECTIVE: Rags to Riches author Mohammed Al-Fahim talks to
Curriculum Team Leader, for Arabic, Islamic & UAE Social Key Stage 3 UAE Social Studies students.
Studies, Mr Abu Saleh, Mr Al-Fahim and Dr Patrick Dougherty
from the Higher Colleges of Technology. 11

12. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
SECONDARY SCIENCE: EVERY
LESSON HAS THE WOW FACTOR
Al Yasmina School’s secondary science classes are full of awe, wonder, explosions
- and big reactions. “Every lesson should include the wow factor,” Curriculum Team
Leader for Science, Mr Donald, says. “When I asked Year 9 students how we start
every science lesson - expecting an answer of ‘with an exam question’ - one of my
Year 9 students said ‘With something amazing! An explosion, a big reaction or some
idea that blows our mind.’” The secondary science curriculum has undergone
extensive development, resulting in the introduction of a hands-on approach to
lessons which involves more practical, investigative work. A skills-based approach
has also been introduced, with students focusing on:
• graph work
• obtaining evidence
• risk assessments
• identifying variables
• evaluation
• analysis
• scientists working together internationally
• moral and ethical issues in science.
“These skills are key to an understanding of science in general and the scientific
method that underpins all scientific thinking,” Mr Donald says. “For a number of
years universities around the world have been complaining that students lack a
basic understanding of the scientific method and lack some basic investigation
skills. By focusing on these skills we are providing them with the skills they need
for the future and giving them an advantage over their peers.”
Mr Donald says a skills-based approach enables the school’s science teachers to
constantly raise standards and improve the students’ ability to access curriculum
content. The introduction of new schemes of learning across the key stages is
also underway. Mr Donald says this work is largely being carried out behind the
scenes. Staff are putting in place tools to enable students to “drive up excitement
through engagement which will then translate to achievement and attainment.”
New methods of assessment are being put in place and science teachers are taking
responsibility for different areas of development.
BOOK TAKES
FRUSTRATING SEARCH FOR READERS ON
FEMALE ISLAMIC SCIENTISTS A JOURNEY OF
It seemed to be a relatively simple homework task – find female scientists of note
SCIENTIFIC
from the Arab world - but the request sent Year 7 and Year 11 students on a long
and eventually fruitless search. “They basically came up empty handed,” Mr Donald
DISCOVERY
says. “The students were able to find out lots of information about other female Periodic Tales, by Hugh Aldersey-Williams
scientists, ranging from Marie Curie (the physicist and chemist famous for her may not sound like everyone’s idea of a
pioneering research on radioactivity) and Rosalind Franklin (responsible for much good book, but don’t let the title put you off.
of the research and discovery work that led to the understanding of the structure of Mr Donald describes it as a “fascinating
DNA) but when it came to unearthing famous female Muslim scientists, there was look at how many of the common elements
simply no information around.” were discovered and how they are used
Year 7 student Emily Rossiter says she searched the internet for more than half an today.” His review of the book is on display
hour, trying to find a famous female Muslim scientist, but came up empty handed. “I on the Science Department notice boards
found famous Arab scientists, but they were all men,” she says. “In the end I had to and a new science book review will be
give up.” While his students focused on other famous scientists, Mr Donald started added every two months. The reviews are
to do some research of his own. What he uncovered – largely after sifting through a way of extending students’ interest in
university papers - was three female Muslim scientists “who everyone should have science beyond the curriculum, Mr Donald
heard of but I can guarantee they haven’t.” says.
· Professor Samira Ibrahim Islam, who was UNCESCO’s woman of the year in
2000, is responsible for outstanding and groundbreaking research into Periodical Tales, according to his review,
biochemical pathways “doesn’t require you to have a huge
· Ms Sameena Shah’s research involves breakthrough algorithms in global knowledge of chemistry but it will give you
optimisation, computer learning and cognitive pathways. She is soon to be Dr more of an understanding of the history
Shah of the subject and enough ‘did you know’
· Professor Dr Bina S Siddiqui has discovered cures for some cancers and is type facts to win the UK quiz show ‘QI’ with
working on a cure for Aids. She has published over 250 research papers and ease.” The next reviewer is Science teacher
has brought massive changes to medicine and agriculture. Miss Albrighton.
12

13. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
USING MATHS IN THE
Towards the end, we were all shown some projects the company
had worked on in previous years, including some major villas
WORKPLACE
which were all beautifully designed as well as the plans of some
of their currently ongoing project such as Yas Mall in Yas Island.
One aspect of architecture which fascinated us all was the ability
of a very small team and several young talented designers to
Two groups of Year 11 maths students got an insight into work together and produce something of such great magnitude
how the skills they are learning in the classroom apply in the and significance to society and that is why we all immediately
working world they spent a day in an architectural practice and fell in love with such a profession. The trip really helped us open
with a firm of stockbrokers. The visits were organised as part of our eyes about how great the varied field or architecture is and
“Maths in industry day” which is a new initiative at Al Yasmina it allowed us to see it all from a professional architect’s point of
School and aims to develop links with businesses in the UAE, view. One thing for sure is that it is one of the best professions to
Curriculum Team Leader for Mathematics, Mr Hetherington consider studying if your love both the sciences and the arts.
says. “Students spend lots of time in classrooms working on
theoretical problems,” he says. “It is our intention in the Maths
Department to allow students to see the real world so they can
MR RICHARDS’
turn theory into practice.” The department is keen to establish
new partnerships with companies. If you can help, please
MATHEMATICAL
contact Mr Hetherington shetherington@alyasmina.sch.ae.
By Harrison Crawford
Being a stockbroker involves many skills, including having an
able mathematical brain, good analytical and prediction skills and
CHALLENGE
understanding of risk and reward. That's what we learnt during
a visit to Century Financial Brokers in Dubai. We were shown the The two solutions for last month’s Magic L were correctly
computer program that is used by brokers to trade in a worldwide provided by Dr Naser Tibi. His answer was randomly selected
market and we learnt how a two-way market works and the from several correct entries.
importance of this in a diverse and changing market. We got to
see how calculations are made for trading and how they can be
applied to real-life situations. The most interesting thing for me
was realising how easy it is to lose all your money out there, but 5 4
also how easy it is to gain so much more and the fragile balance
between the two. Overall it was a very worthwhile trip and I learnt 3 3
that being a stockbroker is a job that combines maths, economics
and business. 2 1
1 6 4 5 6 2
This month's maths challenge has more of a festive theme.
THE TWELVE CLUES OF
CHRISTMAS
Five elves work for Santa. They each wear a different colour
5 costume and each make a different toy. You need to find the
name of each elf, their colour, their toy and how many toys they
made. Use the twelve clues below:
1. 30 toys are made altogether.
2. None of the elves make the same amount of toys.
MATHS IN THE WORKING WORLD: Year 11 students visit an architiects
office as part of he Maths in industry day visits. 3. Each elf makes more than two toys.
4. Bess made one more toy than the elf in red.
5. Bess made one less toy than the elf who made sledges.
6. Johnny made racing cars.
By Laura Tibi 7. Jane made five toys.
As architecture is something a lot of students at Al Yasmina are 8. The elf in yellow made the trains.
passionate about, myself along with some other students were 9. The elf in green made one third of the number of toys Sue
fortunate enough to be taken to the PRP Architects International, did.
a well-known and established architecture company with a branch 10. Mary was dressed in orange.
in Abu Dhabi. There, we were introduced to the manager as well as 11. The elf in blue made the spinning tops and made more toys
a newly graduated architect who talked us through the process of than anyone else.
building structures as well as design and work on CAD (computer 12. One elf made footballs.
aided design). We were able to achieve a greater insight into the
world of architecture and were all given a chance to draw our own Please email your answers. The solution and the person who
designs of specific buildings and structures usually given to first solved it correctly will be published in the next issue.
year architects, such as coffee shops, boutiques or playgrounds. crichards@alyasmina.sch.ae
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14. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
YEAR 8 URGED TO LOOK TO
THE FUTURE
Each issue The Secondary PARTnership will
focus in a different secondary year group. In this
edition, we look at Year 8
Harnessing the enthusiasm of the Year 8 students and making them realise that what
they put in place now will benefit them later are some of the goals of their Year Leader,
Mr Ward. He says students in the six Year 8 mentor groups are lively and enthusiastic and
keen to get involved in all aspects of school life. "They are confident, comfortable with
themselves and very focused on what they are doing at school," he says.
The students decorated their mentor boards during PSCHEE and each board reflects the
personalities of the individual groups. They all show originality, attention to detail and
the students went to considerable effort to demonstrate their interests, personalities and
what they want to achieve during the year. Mr Ward describes Year 8 as a crossroads year
for the students as they have completed their first year of secondary school but are a year
away from making their GCSE choices.
"My focus for Year 8 is to encourage them to do their best at every step," he says. "I am
encouraging them to develop the mindset where they realise it's not about what they do
right now, it's about how they prepare for what's coming next. In last week's Year group
assembly we discussed the idea of 'try not to fail, but don't fail to try.'" The subject of
change was discussed at another recently assembly.
Discussions touched on how to deal with change and how to look forward, not back,
Mr Ward says. "My aim is to help Year 8 students to develop new skills and a sense of
responsibility and to help them realise that it's not a teacher's or a parent's job to manage
their everyday life, that they are responsible for that, giving them the motivation to start
dealing with this and the tools to cope with it."
GETTING NOTICED: Year 8 students and
their decorated mentor group boards.
YEAR 8 DIRHAM BOTTLE
CHALLENGE
Year 8 students are raising money to help save the leg of a young girl
living in Abu Dhabi, one dirham at a time. Their fundraising activities
began after Khamis al Hinai (8 Bih) saw an article in Abu Dhabi Week
magazine about Jasmine Ammari, who has a rare condition known as
congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT), which means her bones fail
to form properly, making them prone to fractures.
Jasmine's family want to take their daughter to a specialist in the United
States for surgery. Khamis, with help from Learning Support Assistant,
Mrs Preston, has organised the dirham bottle challenge to raise money
for Jasmine's surgery. Every student in Year 8 has been given an empty
water bottle and to fill with dirham coins. The money raised will be
FILLING BOTTLES WITH DIRHAMS: Left to right: given to help save Jasmine Ammari’s leg. Visit www.youcaring.com and
Naimh Griffiths, Alina Kamal, Khamis Al Hinai and
Roxanne Gardiner. search for 'save Jasmine’s leg’.
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15. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
NEW-LOOK HOUSE HOUSE TOTALS FOR
SYSTEM KICKS OFF TERM ONE
The new House system is underway, with Year 10 and 11
students now able to earn House points through activities in Voyager 1766
Maths, English and Science as well as on the sporting field.
Students can be awarded 80, 60, 40 or 20 House points at Endeavour 1689
school events and these are added onto individual points, Discovery 1656
Director of Sport, Mr Smith says. Scores are added up at the
end of each month and the House with the most points wins. Challenger 1477
The winning House for the first term is Voyager and all students
in Voyager will have a non uniform day next term. Next term
the new House system will extend across all KS3 subjects and
Post-16 students will come on board in the third term. Science HUBBLE TROUBLE A
has introduced House activities to encourage students to learn
HOUSE CHALLENGE
WINNER
the periodic table, maths students have earned House points
through quizzes and the English department has come on board
with spelling competitions with a twist - students spell words
by using their own bodies to form the letters. Mr Smith says
Finding out ways in which science has massively affected the
House captains have also been named following an exhaustive
world around us through accidental or incidental developments
selection process that involved sifting through more than 70
is the focus of the House challenge for Year 10 and 11 Science
applications. Nominees had to present to their classmates,
students. Curriculum Team Leader for Science Mr Donald says
outlining why they should vote for them.
one example the students have uncovered is how a malfunction
Year 10 House captain Katha Toma says she decided to run by the Hubble space telescope meant doctors were able
for the position because she saw it as a good way to practice to correct a problem in images provided by mammogram
her leadership skills. She has previous experience as House machines. When the Hubble was launched in 1990, a blunder
captain in her previous school and was keen to take on this in the design of its optics meant it generated blurred images.
responsibility at Al Yasmina. "If you have responsibilities and Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Centre in
you are in charge of things it helps to prepare you for future Washington DC realised that the image distortion problem was
jobs," she says. Derek Lee, also in Year 10, says it sees his role identical to the problem they had with images produced by
as House Captain as a great way to know other students in his mammograms, which are used in the early detection of breast
Year group and to help the school grow as a community. And cancer. The solution devised for the Hubble was adopted by
for Ruby Hughes, being a House captain runs in the family - her the medical community and countless women are alive today
younger brother, Murray, is also a House captain in Year 7. thanks to a design flaw in the Hubble space telescope.
HOUSE CAPTAINS: The secondary school`s House captains are ready to lead their classmates through academic and sporting challenges under the
new House system.
15

16. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
FAYRE A FINE WAY TO APRON SALES BENEFIT
SPEND THE DAY WORLD CHALLENGE
Al Yasmina’s festive fayre on Saturday is set to be a day of food,
STUDENTS
music, competitions, raffles, games and shopping. The day will
have a relaxed feel with music being provided by the Al Yasmina
Singers and the school’s brass ensemble. FOY (Friends of Al
Yasmina), which is organising the event, say there will be more
than 20 stalls offering a wide range of items for sale, ranging
from cakes to crafts. Other attractions include craft activities
in Santa’s grotto, henna painting and a chance to have photos
taken in traditional Arabic clothing.Children will be entertained
with energetic activities provided by the school’s PE department
and an ‘unbeatable’ obstacle course set out by Haddins Fitness.
Raffle tickets for gift hampers will be sold at the fayre and
prizes include baskets of spa products, gourmet food, children’s
toys and outdoor and gardening items. For those with a sweet
tooth, the chocolate hamper will be hard to resist. There will
be lots of competitions, from guessing the name of the cow,
the number of sweets in a jar, a lucky dip a tombola staff and
a crowd favourite, the dunk tank. Food will be a big part of the
day, with barbecue food, drinks and cakes on offer. The fayre is
from 11am until 2pm. Proceeds will support Operation Smile,
and a yet-to-be-decided local children’s charity.
Calling all bakers: donations for the cake stall can be dropped
at the school on Friday from 10am-12pm or on Saturday
morning from 9.30am. Queries: goodwins.uae@gmail.com
BUY A BRICK CAMPAIGN
The school’s World Challenge students will sell ‘bricks’ at the
festive fayre as a fundraiser for their trip to Uganda next June.
Money raised at the fayre will help buy materials to add extra
rooms onto Jjezza School in Uganda. The bricks - pieces of
cardboard that people can write their names on when they
purchase them - will sell for 20, 50, 100 and 500dhs, giving APRONS FOR SALE: Head of School Mr Gale wears one of the Al
people the chance to buy small, standard, large or extra Yasmina aprons which will be on sale at the festive fayre.
large bricks. World Challenge students will then use them
to ‘build’ a wall of purchased bricks in the school atrium so
Looking for the ideal Christmas present and want to support
everybody can see the progress of the fundraising campaign.
the school’s World Challenge students at the same time? High
The students help teach the children at Jjezza School and use
quality aprons by Abu Dhabi company Moon by Mazoon will
their practical skills with bricklaying, mixing concrete and
be for sale at the festive fayre on Saturday. The aprons will be
painting around the school. After the festive fayre the bricks
available in a variety of colours and with different messages
will continue to be sold at reception.
embroidered on them. A portion of each sale will go to support
the school’s World Challenge students.
Orders can be taken on the day for those who prefer a
customised message on their apron. Adult sized aprons will
sell for 100dhs and smaller aprons, suitable for children, are
80dhs. The big sellers on the day are expected to be the Al
Yasmina PRIDE and Play Your Part aprons, which were debuted
by World Challenge students at the Halloween bake sale. Stocks
of aprons with the following messages will be available at the
festive fayre:
Adult size: Child size:
Santa’s Helper Santa’s Little Helper
Super Mum Rock n’ Roll Star
Marvelous Mum Girls Rule
Super Dad My Little Prince
Dare Devil Dad My Little Princess
BUY A BRICK: Mitchell Keel (bottom left), Jake Hughes, Shahmir Super Gran
Khan, Joshua Brundan with the bricks that can be bought at the fayre. 16

17. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
GET THE BASICS EXPERT ADVICE HELPS
RIGHT, RECOMMENDS DRIVE COMPANY
LAYWER FORWARD
Barrister Mrs Fowler is working on a business plan with Elegant Employees of Yazmania, a company formed by Post-16 students
Edge employees, encouraging them to ensure the foundations as part of the school’s Enterprise programme, are receiving
of their business are well established before they embark on expert advice from businessman Mr O’Hagan, who has been
the more exciting aspects of their business development. She in the retail trade for 30 years. He has owned and operated
has discussed the importance of short, medium and long term retail, wholesale and franchise businesses and worked with
goals with the students and has asked them to think about the suppliers and companies worldwide. The students are meeting
steps they need to take for those to be achieved. She has also weekly with Mr O’Hagan, tapping into the experience he has in
encouraged the girls to think carefully about the structure of setting up and running companies from scratch, his expertise
their organisation, individual responsibility and accountability in preparing business plans and his knowledge of operations,
and the appropriate processes for decision making. Mrs Fowler merchandising, buying functions and promotional activities.
works for a global risk consultancy, advising clients on a wide
range of issues relating to conducting business in the UAE and Mr O’Hagan says he was more than happy to help out with the
wider MENA region, contextualising their issues within a legal Enterprise programme. “I thought it was a great initiative from
framework and working with them to find practical solutions the school to help students get some practical experience of
to the problems that invariably arise while working in complex the workplace and to help them realise what they can do if they
jurisdictions. “I am often called upon when things go wrong, have a commercial idea and the will to make it happen.” In his
so I hope my early proactive involvement with the team will first meeting with the group Mr O’Hagan helped the students
ensure a smooth path for their venture,” she says. Mrs Fowler focus their targets and drilled down what they needed to get the
has been previously involved in a programme mentoring and company up and running.
offering careers advice for young women in the UK who were
pursuing careers in traditionally male dominated industries. “It Discussions centred on what had been achieved to date and
had been on my mind to speak with Al Yasmina about the what needed to be done for the sales launch period. “Suppliers,
implementation of a similar programme for some time, so when locations and targets were discussed and we have been
I received an email from the Young Enterprise team it seemed moving all these matters forward at our weekly meetings,”
like an excellent opportunity to get involved and I jumped at it,” Mr O’Hagan says. “I think it is important that the students can
she says. “Running even a small business can be complicated, achieve as much as they can themselves, and I can monitor
and the skills required are not necessarily those that one would their progress and advise if I consider them to be on the right
expect to learn in a traditional academic setting so I think it is path.” Mr O’Hagan says he will be involved in Yazmania on an
wonderful that students at Al Yasmina, especially young women, on-going basis “unless the students fire me! I hope we can put
are being offered this practical opportunity to learn a set of forward a successful business model and set of practices which
skills that I hope will stand them in very good stead in their we can build upon for future schemes,” he says. “I would like
futures.” to thank the school for including me in what I think is a great
scheme and hopefully we can take it forward and create some
She sees her role as supporting the girls to make their own entrepreneurs in the near future.”
decisions and says her background means she is well placed
to give advice on corporate structure, decision making and the Mrs Gomez and Mr Gimena have also joined the Year 12
developing a business plan. Mrs Fowler says she would like Enterprise group as business advisors. Both have extensive
to be involved long-term in the Enterprise programme. “As business knowledge and Mrs Gomez also has contacts in the
something of a fashion junkie, who likes nothing more than textile industry. The team has already benefited from these
flicking through the pages of a glossy magazine, I am also contacts when sourcing raw materials. Look for an interview in
hoping that as time goes on I might be able to offer some advice the next issue of The Secondary PARTnership.
in relation to their product range!”
EXPERT ADVICE: Mr Jordan and Mrs Fowler (left picture), and Mr O’Hagan discuss business plans with the Enterprise students.
17

18. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
FOCUSING ON FINANCE COMPANY PROGRESS
With a background in investment banking, project finance
and private equity, Mr Jordan is perfectly placed to assist the ELEGANT EDGE
employers of Enterprise programme company Elegant Edge
to launch and operate their business.“In my career I have • Elegant Edge took part in the Feline Friends Christmas
been in situations like this numerous times, when a group of market last Friday, making several sales
entrepreneurs or investors face a challenge and they need • The company will also have a stall at the festive fayre on
expert advice on the options they have,” he says. Saturday
• It also hopes to have a stall at school once a week next
Mr Jordan will advise the students on how to prepare a budget term
and how to assess market opportunities and turn them into • The company has established a Facebook page where it
sales strategies. He will also help the students acquire skills updates its jewellery lines, takes orders for custom-made
that will enable them to become more structured and more jewellery
efficient in their work, such as setting targets and priorities for • The company hope to expand its collections and become
the week and explaining how these objectives fit into the bigger more creative and innovative
picture. • Employees are working hard to increase brand awareness
for the company and its products.
Mr Jordan is working with Mrs Fowler to assist the group of
girls on a weekly basis, helping them develop their business
plan and put this into action. Mr Jordan says the Enterprise
programme is a great initiative and has huge potential. “It
YAZMANIA
is very exciting and potentially very rewarding to work with • Yazmania sold its complete line of t-shirts at the school’s
students and help them develop new skills and help them National Day celebrations
create something of their own.” • It has designed a new range of bespoke designs ready for
sell at the festive fayre on Saturday
He will help the students to get access to potential customers, • It has developed a comprehensive business and plan and
as well as sponsors who will endorse and support their has raised start-up cash to finance its business costs
company. Mr Jordan says he hopes to be involved in the project • Employees have designed a logo that represents its brand
on an on-going basis. “This is a long-term project and it would and will unveil this in the next issue of The Secondary
be very interesting to see how the venture evolves,” he says. PARTnership
• Yazmania will begin producing new designs in January.
TAKE YOUR PICK: Yazmania employees with a range of t-shirts sold at the National Day celebrations last week.
18

19. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
AND MY POINT IS: Shahmir Khan (centre) in action during the open division debate as the rest of the team - Wynona Bautista(left), Priyanka Iyer
and Abigail Alexander - confer.
A DAY OF DEBATING
Al Yasmina’s debating teams secured their best results ever at the annual Debate Dubai competition last month, with Year 10 student Derek Lee
winning the best speaker award for the Under 16 division and the under 14 B team coming home runners-up in their category. It was the third time
Al Yasmina has competed in the contest and this year fielded its biggest number of competitors with four teams from the school competing in three
divisions; two in the under 14 category and one team in the under 16 age group. Post-16 students competed in the open division.
Winners from each pool are awarded a cup, runners-up from each pool receive a plate, third place-getters are awarded a bowl and losers from each
pool receive a shield. Al Yasmina’s Debate Dubai coordinator, Ms Magee, says the other Al Yasmina teams also did extremely well. The under 14 team
qualified for the cup but were knocked out in the quarter finals, while the under 16s qualified for the bowl but were knocked out in the semi-finals and
the Post-16 students qualified for the plate but were knocked out in the quarter finals.
Ms Magee says it was the most successful year for the debaters, particularly for the Year 9s who competed at a high level. “All the teams learnt a lot
about structuring arguments, listening to the opposition and about rebuttals and delivering speeches with confidence and style,” she says. “The Post-
16 students were outstanding and an absolute pleasure to watch. Many of them supported the other Al Yasmina teams and gave them tips. Year 12
student Shahmir Khan was absolutely fantastic in coaching the other teams.” It was a long day for the students, who left Abu Dhabi at 7am and arrived
back at 8.30pm.
Speech topics and teams:
Year 9 (under 14 category) Year 10/11 (under 16 category) Year 12 (open division)
Nikita Amir, Shahzain Khan, Owen Harcup, Jude Dababneh, Derek Lee and Mallory De Man. Priyanka Iyer, Abigail Alexander, Shahmir
Aya Zeidan, Syeda Manal Ahmed, Ramya Iyer, · This House would allow people to sell their Khan and Wynona Bautista.
Samali Weerasekera, Varsha Madapatha, organs · This House would repeal Obamacare
Daniella Pretorius and Bidisha Misra. · This House would actively privatise all state · This house would enforce IPR
· This House regrets the practice of tiger schools (intellectual property rights) in
parenting · This House would tie development aid to the developing countries
· This House believes that harsher enforcement of population control · This House believes the Euro was a
punishments should be imposed on mechanisms. mistake.
celebrities who commit crimes
· This House believes that the environment
should be prioritised over economic
growth.
DANCING UP A STORM
Months of preparation by Al Yasmina’s secondary dance group High Standards paid off when their performance lit up the stage at
the Al Bateen Dance and Choir Group Festival. Students from schools throughout Abu Dhabi took part in the festival to show their
passion and love for dancing and singing. The Al Yasmina students danced to Rihanna’s Where Have You Been, demonstrating great
confidence, fantastic timing and delivering a top quality performance, their choreographer, DT and Art teacher Ms Owbridge says.
The students have been refining their moves in the street dance extracurricular club and have also attended extra practice sessions
each week. Ms Owbridge says she has been teaching the High Standards dancers since they were in Year 7 and this year they made
up most of the dance themselves. The students achieved the right hairstyles thanks to Mrs Troup, who helped out backstage for three
hours on the day of the show. High Standards members: Year 10: Jessica Lewis, Bethany Troup, Soo Lim, Abby McGough, Rachael
Hill and Farah Hanbali. Year 11: Jessica McMillian and Reem Hassan-Beck. Year 13: Emily Prest.
STRIKE A POSE: Members of High Standards perform on stage at the festival last month.
19

20. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
MURAL MAKEOVER FOR STAIRWELLS
The sterile walls in the
secondary school’s stairwells
are being transformed into
areas of beauty by Year 13
BTEC students and the school’s
mural painting club. The BTEC
students have completed a unit
of work by painting trees into
each of the stairwell corners
and the mural club students,
in Years 8 - 13, are painting
murals in four different styles
- optical illusion, Art Nouveau,
Cubism and Surrealism.
The Art Nouveau mural is being
painted by a group of Year 8
and Year 11 students and is
based on the work of the artist
Alfons Mucha, a Moravian
painter of the late 19th and
early 20th centuries and a
key figure in the Art Nouveau
movement. Curriculum Team
Leader for Art, Mrs Walsh,
says the painting, which is
very ornate with many natural
elements, focuses on a central
figure. The optical illusion
mural is black and white, with
clever use of perspective and
introduces the concept of going
from indoors to the outdoors.
The Cubist mural is inspired by the work of German painter and printmaker
Franz Marc. The surreal painting is more complex and requires a higher level
of ability because the artists are making the painting look real, Mrs Walsh says.
The group of artists first created the image - which is based on the Burj Khalifa
- on the computer. Mrs Walsh says the mural club is very popular but it will be
limited to the same group of students who are midway through their murals.
The school’s atrium has also been adorned by a mural which was painted by
a group of Year 10 artists and one Year 12 student. The mural uses Cubism
and symbolism to reflect the students’ understanding of life in Abu Dhabi. The
multicoloured balloons running though the painting symbolise the multi-
cultural aspects of their community. The students included many iconic
structures, connected by an Islamic pattern, in their mural. It was painted by
Hasan Al Mashani, Clara Ziada, Hibah Hassan, Yea in Lim, Laura Tibi, Sarah
Munro, Aseel Mohammed and Faris Al Ali.
STAIRWELL ART: Hibah Hassan (left) and Hasan Al Mashani work on a surreal painting in the secondary school stairway. 20

21. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
FUNDRAISING FOCUS FOR POST-16 LEADERSHIP
TEAM
The Post-16 students represent the school’s
most senior students, and with that comes the
responsibility of being role models for the rest of
the school. The newly-elected Post-16 leadership
team say their job is to model appropriate
behaviour, dress standards and academic and
sporting achievement, along with fundraising for
various charities.
The team kicked off the academic year by
supporting Movember, encouraging students to
wear a moustache to school in return for a 5dhs
donation, which will support Movember charities.
The next charity event on their calendar is on
Valentine’s Day on 14 February, 2013. This event
is subject to confirmation. Cupid will deliver
messages to students from admirers, who will
pay him a fee for the message delivery. If the
receiver of the message wants to find out who the
message is from, they can – if they pay. Post-
16 leadership council member Nicole Crighton
says a decision on what charity this fundraiser
will support will be made closer to the time.
She hopes students will wear Valentine’s Day
LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES: Three members of the Post-16 Leadership Council Jessica colours – pinks and reds – on the day in return for
Vickery (left), Nicole Burgess and Daniel Brundan discuss fundraising plans.
a donation.
The leadership team comprises five Year 13 students: Nicole Crighton, Chloe Moss, Jessica Vickery, Jon Alexander and Daniel Brundan. Three Year 12
members were chosen to represent their Year group after an exhaustive recruiting process. The successful candidates are Wynona Bautista, Abigail
Alexander and Shahmir Khan. “We were looking for students who are confident, imaginative, who were able to think outside the box and who were,
most importantly, willing to give up their time,” Nicole says.
MOVEMBER
MOUSTACHE MADNESS: Secondary students donned moustaches to support Movember charities.
21

22. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
STUDENT VOICE ELECTIONS HELD
Derek Lee, one of the candidates for the role of Secretary on Next up were the candidates for Treasurer. Year 10 student
Student Voice, had his election speech ready to go. “I’m very Katha Toma promised she would use her mathematical skills
organised and know how to keep track of things,” he told the to provide a general financial oversight, Waie Rasidin, in Year
room of Student Voice members deciding who would fill the 10, talked about her existing fiscal responsibilities, Tahara
position of secretary. He promised accountability, perfect Moonemalle (Year 10) promised to bring her organisational
attendance and a written record of all decisions made. skills and dedication to the role while Michael Franks (Year
8) said he would draw on his previous student council
The other candidates were equally impressive. Year 7 student experience to the role and his leadership skills developed
Ibrahim Al Mokatash urged the room of voters not to be put with his involvement in the Scouts.
off by his age and stressed his availability when some of the
older students might be sidelined by exam timetables, while Votes were counted and Waie was the successful appointee.
Year 8 student Rachel Foulsham said she liked to get involved She and Derek join the Chair, Mallory De Man and Vice-Chair
and make sure things were done on time. Eliel Ponen who were appointed in the last meeting. Positions
of responsibility will be re-elected each term.
Year 7 student Fatima Anani said she was organised,
responsible and liked to keep account of things. The four The Post-16 Student Voice representatives are Nicola
candidates were ushered out of the room while the votes Burgess and Tom Willcoxson-Staines. Student Voice
were counted, with Derek leaving with a parting shot - “My coordinator Mrs Hewitt says the students created seven
name is Derek, don’t forget to vote for me!” before the doors committees, each focused on different aspects of school life -
shut. After just minutes, the candidates were invited back communication, curriculum, events, facilities, sustainability,
into the room, impressing Derek with the speed of their recreation and rewards. Students will participate in
decision. “You could teach them some lessons in Florida,” he committees of their choice and at the next meeting a leader
said, before smiling broadly when he was announced as the will be chosen for each committee. Student Voice meets once
winning candidate. a fortnight.
STUDENT VOICE: Each mentor group has a representative on Student Voice, the secondary school’s student council. 22

23. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
OUTSTANDING RESULTS FOR AL YASMINA
SPORTING SIBLINGS
Sibling athletes Holly and Sam O’Shea are
dominating the UAE multisport scene in their
age groups, clocking up an impressive set of
results over the last 12 months. Their recent
achievements include the 2XU Triathlon in
Dubai last month. Sam came first in the under
18 category, completing the Olympic distance
(1.5km swim, 42km cycle and10km run).
Holly came third in the U18 girls’ category for
the sprint distance (750m swim, 22km cycle
and 5km run). The next day, they completed the
ADNIC run at Yas Island, with Sam leading the
3km race from the start to finish and winning
the 14/15 year old category in a time of 10:37.
Athletics is in the blood for the O’Shea siblings.
Their parents, Angela and Paul, compete
regularly in events around the UAE and last
month Mr and Mrs O’Shea and Sam competed
in the Abu Dhabi Striders Half Marathon at Yas
Island. Sam came second in the junior category
(ages 16 and 17) with a time of 1.38. The sibling
athletes recently added the Biathle World
Championship to their long list of sporting
achievements. The Al Yasmina students were
WINNING STYLE: Sam O’Shea crosses the finishing line in first place at the ADNIC run last week
amongst 317 competitors from 23 different (picture courtesy of Sport360 www.sport360.com) and below, Holly competes in the Biathle World
countries in the recent event, many of whom Championships in Dubai.
were serious athletes. Holly, who is 15,
completed a 1km sprint, swam 200m and then
sprinted a further 1km. Fourteen-year-old
Sam, who entered in the 13 to 14-year-old age
group, ran 500m, swam 100m and finished with
a 500m sprint. Although they didn’t win, both
knocked several minutes off their qualifying
times.
Sam and Holly say while the distances
weren’t particularly great the fact they had to
sprint, not run, made the event particularly
challenging. “The sprint was full on for a
short period of time and it was too short for
me to pace myself,” Sam says. Holly and
Sam qualified to compete in the event, which
was held at the International Marine Club
in Dubai, as part of Team UAE. Sam’s other
achievements include winning the junior 20km
Aloft run for children at ADNEC in September
for the second year in a row in a time of one
hour and 31 minutes,knocking more than 20
minutes off last year’s time. Sam completed
his first triathlon, the Abu Dhabi International
Triathlon in March, participating with his father,
and was the youngest competitor to enter
the event. He completed the sprint course which is a 750m swim, 50km cycle and 5km run. Holly and Sam both competed in Tri Yas at the Yas Marina
F1 Circuit in April, both finishing in first place in their age categories. Event rules forbade competitors in their age groups from completing the
swimming section of the triathlon, so the siblings completed the event as a biathlon and collected their trophies from the F1 podium. Mrs O’Shea says
both children compete regularly in triathlons and biathlons in Dubai and Al Ain and run around the F1 track every Tuesday to prepare themselves for
the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon next March. Holly wants to complete the sprint course and Sam is aiming for the short course, which is a 1.5km
swim, 100km cycle and 10km run. Holly has stress fractures in both shins and has been advised to limit her training to swimming and cycling until
they have healed. “She is very reluctant as the weather is more favourable for training and now she has the bug she doesn’t want to stop or lose the
fitness level she has worked so hard to achieve,” Mrs O’Shea says.
23

24. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
VOLUNTEER WORK A HUMBLING
EXPERIENCE FOR POST-16
STUDENTS
Abby Alexander and Wynona Bautista have only started helping out at Abu Dhabi’s Future Centre for Special
Needs, but it has already had a profound effect on the two Post-16 students. They volunteer at the centre
once a week as part of their Community Service Award. The centre is a non-profit organisation dedicated
to the empowerment of individuals with disabilities. It opened in September 2000 and has 170 students
aged between three and 20-years-old. Abby works with children aged between 7-12, helping them with
painting, puzzles and spatial awareness activities while Wynona volunteers with a group of young adults.
She helps with reading, PE lessons and vocational tasks such as sewing and weaving. Both students say
HAPPY VOLUNTEERS: Abby Alexander
their volunteer work is both humbling and inspiring. “We have learnt to be more understanding,” Abby says. (left) and Winona Bautista say
“They are people just like us, they have their own hopes and dreams.” Abby says she had sometimes seen volunteering at the Future Centre has
groups from the centre at shopping malls and was interested in how the school worked. enriched their lives.
“Now I am working in the school and it is such a rewarding thing to do. It really opens your eyes - it’s something a lot of people should do.” Wynona
says the young adults she works with are a particularly caring group. “They are so emotionally supportive to each other. They know if one of their
classmates is feeling sad and will go up to them and pat them on the back or give them a high five.” Both students say they would love to do more work
at the centre. For Wynona, it has reinforced her decision to choose a career in medicine. “I realise that I want to take care of people and that’s one of
the main reasons I’m choosing medicine.” Abby’s work at the centre has influenced her career choices and she says a job that involves working with
people with special needs may be in her future.
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
All Al Yasmina’s Year 12 students are involved in a wide range of volunteer activities as part of the school’s Community Service Award programme. The
students volunteer in their free periods. The scheme allows them to contribute to the wider community and to develop self esteem and interpersonal
skills and provides an opportunity for the type of part-time work that they would have access to in their home countries. It also adds weight to CVs
prepared for university application. Students undertaking three A levels commit to two hours a week; those studying four A levels contribute one hour
a week. Students begin in October and finish in April. The students do not participate in the scheme during the lead up to exams.
HANDS-ON APPROACH TO MEDICAL CENTRE
VISIT
By Wynona Bautista, Lana Zuhair and Priyanka Iyer
Students interested in a career in medicine were invited to the Harley Street Medical Centre last month. Being able to tour around a legitimate, high-
quality medical centre was not just educational, but also enlightening. We were guided around various departments which included Recovery, X-ray,
General Practice, Urology and Reconstructive Surgery. Doctors in different fields informed us about what their profession entailed, giving us an idea on
what our future lives might be like. All students involved had the opportunity to try out actual surgical equipment while in the operating room, picking
out ‘kidney stones’ represented by seeds, which was incredibly fascinating. CPR was also taught to us, which is surprisingly easier said than done.
Nobody really knew what to expect but throughout the whole tour, we were kept on the edge of our seats by of all the intricate medical apparatus, and
we acquired a deeper understanding of what being a doctor essentially means.
GOLF SEASON UNDERWAY
Al Yasmina Golf Team teed it up in the first round of the Abu Dhabi Schools Golf League last
month at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club. The boys played very well with Callum McKay (Year 9) winning
the individual section of the tournament. Callum put a very impressive score on the board,
posting 1 under; a score any professional would be proud of! Thanks to PJ Van Merch from
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club for organising such a fantastically successful event and Rosewood
Hotel Abu Dhabi for their generous support of the Abu Dhabi Schools Golf League. The team is
in action again this month at the City Golf Club. Any new players interested in playing should
see Mr Ward. Al Yasmina School golf team:
Ryan Hunter, Year 10 James Forbes, Year 9
Harry Baldock, Year 10 Callum McKay, Year 9
GOLF CHAMPS: PJ Van Merch, Callum McKay,
Jake Peate, Year 10 Max Baldock, Year 8
Jack Emerson (Abu Dhabi Golf Club) and
Roddy Gordon from Rosewood Hotel Abu Dhabi
Aaron Parker, Year 10 James Tweddle, Year 7
(tournament sponsors).
24

25. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
SNIPPETS
YASMINA ZOO VISIT
STUDENTS VIE
FOR TOP READER
A team of avid readers from Al Yasmina’s secondary school
are competing to become the top readers in the UAE. Thirty
students took part in the first heats of the Reader’s Cup
competition, which is organised by the Emirates Festival of
Literature. There were four rounds of questions based on
popular young adults’ literature, and the competition was fierce.
The eight top scorers won a place in the two teams that will
take part in the next heats in January.
The teams have to read four specific books, written by authors ZOO TRIP: Year 7 science students visited the Al Ain Zoo last week
who will visiting the festival, and be ready to answer questions to gain a hands-on perspective of two of their curriculum topics,
classification and adaption.
on those books. The top eight scoring schools in the heats will
go through to the finals in Dubai in March. The students in
the teams are: Raumati Yusaf-Horsfall, Aurore Queromain,
Matthew Pretorius, Niamh Griffiths, Aysha Fathi Hassan Abass STUDENTS OF THE
Abdul Atti, Mehek Mathur, Aran Quintana and Hannah Green.
MONTH
Congratulations to the students of the month: Arabic native
- Aya Zeidan, Arabic non-native - Teo Elsmore, Islamic
BRONZE DUKE OF Studies native - Ehad Odeh, Islamic Studies non-native -
Rameezuddin Ansari, UAE Social Studies - Mohammed Al
EDINBURGH PRACTICE Dhaheri, Art - Phoebe Hughes, Business Studies - Ali Abu
Saleh, Drama - Holly O’Shea, DT - Katherine Hill, Economic
WEEKEND - Laura Tibi, English - Jessica Vickery, French - Lamya
Al-Yazdi, Geography - Hannah Green, History - Jovita Joshni,
A group of 32 Year 10 students battled uncharacteristically hot ICT - Ali Al Haddad, Maths - Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Music -
weather on their Duke of Edinburgh bronze medal training Annia Mirza, PE - Sam Forbes, Psychology - Jessica Vickery,
expedition weekend in early November. Duke of Edinburgh Science - Ruby Hughes, Spanish - Kayan Khraisheh.
Award Coordinator Miss Stephenson says the teams underwent
a “gruelling” 12 km to walk through the desert area around
WOW FACTOR AND
Fossil Rock, just outside Sharjah. “Teams worked together to
use GPS to find their route and kept their spirits up despite the
CHICAGO
heat and the blazing sun,” she says. “Tents were pitched and
a camp fire built to see us into the night, with marshmallows
toasted and ghost stories told until it was time to turn in for a
night under the stars.” The second day dawned just as hot and More than 60 acts are auditioning for the WOW Factor, Al
sunny and the teams set off across the dunes for a 8km trek Yasmina’s secondary school talent show which hits the
back to the pickup point. All the teams finished in good time stage on 11 December with DJs from Radio One as judges.
and in good spirits, tired, but happy, Miss Stephenson says. The Meanwhile, rehearsals are well under way for secondary
students will return to the desert for their assessment weekend school’s drama production, Chicago. The show will be staged
in January. in February 2013, with a matinee and night performance on
February 10 and evening performances only on February 11
and 12. Head of Drama, Mrs Hetherington says rehearsals
are going brilliantly. “ We have some great singers dancers
WATCHING PAPER
and actors who are working in a very professional manner.
Watch out for tickets on sale in the new year.”
CONSUMPTION
Al Yasmina strived to become a paperless school for one day
last month as it joined a national movement to reduce paper
POPPY THANKS
use and encourage resource efficiency. 21 November marked Al Yasmina School has donated 1252dhs to the Poppy Appeal,
the fifth year of paperless day, an initiative by Environment earning the school a big thanks from the British Embassy.
Agency Abu Dhabi, which urges organisations and companies The Poppy Appeal is the major single source of revenue for
to find more environmentally sustainable and responsible the Royal British Legion’s Benevolent Fund.
ways to do business.
25

26. AL YASMINA SCHOOL issue 3
2012/2013
FESTIVE CONCERT
The festive concert next Monday will showcase the
school’s musicians and singers - and this year will
feature a rap by Year 9 student Nick Coley. He will
perform during the song “Empire State of Mind”,
by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys, which will be sung by the
secondary choir. “The rap describes New York as
one of the best places you will ever visit in your
life,” Nick says. “It says it’s a heck of a town and
then goes on to say that if you don’t like the way the
city is run, then by all means you can leave.” The
rap was supplied by the music teacher Ms Macleod
but Nick says he writes his own raps, “about my
day-to-day life and how I am feeling.” He admits
to having slight stage fright when he thinks of his
performance but says when it comes to rapping,
movement keeps the flow. “I’m nervous, but it CHOIR ON FIRE: The secondary school’s choir rehearses with music teacher Miss
Macleod and below, rapper Nick Coley practices his moves.
will be okay.” The festive concert is in the primary
sports hall on 10 December and begins at 6pm.
The concert will feature primary and secondary
music ensembles and selected piano soloists. The
senior orchestra, senior choir, Al Yasmina Singers,
intermediate and junior choir, the senior and junior
brass ensembles, the flute choir, junior strings,
a clarinet trio and saxophone quarter will all
perform. The concert will finish with a short festive
singalong for the audience and students.
TRIPS PLANNED
TO HONG KONG
AND NEW
YORK CITY
Planning is underway for a sports trip to Hong
Kong and a combined ICT, Business, Maths, Drama, READING PROGRAMME A
History and Music trip to New York City early next
year. The sports trip next April is open to students HUGE HIT
who represent the school in U13 rugby (boys), U15
football (boys) and U13 and U15 netball. The nine- The Accelerated Reader Programme is providing some keen competition
day trip will include sporting matches at local Hong amongst Year 7 students who are piloting the new scheme.English teacher
Kong schools and will also take the sights of Hong Miss Walsh says the research-based programme is really encouraging
Kong, including Golden Bauhinia Square, Victoria students to think about what they are reading and develop their skills as
Peak, Repulse Bay, Aberdeen fishing village and active readers. It is also helping to promote a passion and enthusiasm
Stanley market. The trip will be facilitated by Global for reading. Accelerated Reader is a tracking and monitoring tool used to
Adventure Travel. The New York trip will be offered encourage students to read and is based on students’ individual ability.
initially to students studying ICT, Business, Maths, They are tested on their basic language and literacy skills and the results
Drama, History and Music in KS3 and KS4. are used to put together a range of books for them to choose from.
If there are any spaces left, they will be offered to After finishing each book, students take part in a quiz to test their
students in KS3, with priority going to those who comprehension level. Points are awarded to students each time they win a
have a specific interest in any of these subjects or quiz and these points are exchanged for prizes. Top of the leader board is
who are involved in them through extracurricular Aran Quintana, who has read 21 books - a total of 1,762,414 words - and has
clubs. The six-day trip in March will include a visit passed a quiz on each book. Closely behind is Katherine Hill, who has read
to the Empire State building, a boat trip to the 15 books and passed a quiz on each, and Zunair Khurram, who has read and
Statue of Liberty, a tour of Central Park, Wall St passed a test on 11 books. Miss Walsh says prizes are to be awarded to two
and Fifth Ave, a visit to ground zero, two Broadway students from each English group: a prize for the student who has the most
shows, an educational talk at New York University points and a prize for the student who has made the most progress with
and possibly a day volunteering. their reading.
26