RoundUp
Term 1 Mid Term | 2020-2021
As a director and the licenced operator of the school I don’t often get the chance to do the ‘fun stuff’ around school and when I hear about all the great things that our students do, I get a little jealous of those who are present at those ‘lightbulb moments’ although I am regularly apprehended by teachers keen to tell me of the latest successes in their class.
This academic year we introduced a new structure for the middle leadership of the school, and I have asked each of the members of the team to write a short piece in this edition of RoundUp so you can gain an understanding of how the team works together to ensure your child gets the best opportunities to learn and achieve success.
Whilst our plans have been based on the premise that schools on the island don’t close because of the pandemic, we must be mindful of the possibility of school closures should the Covid-19 pandemic worsen.
Whilst it isn’t in the best interests of the students, it may yet again become a government enforced necessity but, as in the lockdown we endured in late spring, the school is ready, should this happen.
For now, whilst the threat still seems some way off, it’s the chance to bring you news of the continuing development of the school. Student numbers are growing; so much so that most of our classes now have waiting lists, and we will soon open two new classrooms in the main house at Parkland to accommodate a split in our larger classes.
Whilst current Covid-19 restrictions limit what we can offer in the way of sports opportunities, plans are being made to increase our provision after school to complement our football and tag rugby academies and we hope that, once the restrictions are eased, we can encourage our students to participate in other team sports including cricket.
With utmost sincerity, I hope that the stronger government protocols are effective and that the school can remain open and allow our students to continue to show us, within the learning environment, what they are capable of achieving. Keep fingers crossed whilst enjoying your half term break and I hope to see you all on Monday 02 November.
Ian Wells | Director
With the ever changing daily news on the Covid-19 situation, it feels like we’re all having to live from day to day. Sometimes it can be difficult to see beyond the exaggeration and rumour and focus on what we do on a daily basis but, since the school opened for the new academic year, that has been my aim.
We don’t know what tomorrow or the next few days may bring let alone that far off time of the second half of the autumn term but it’s important to celebrate what we have achieved under difficult circumstances.
First I’d like to acknowledge and celebrate that the absolutely unique ethos of the school is very much alive and kicking, despite nearly six months of no physical school. It seems not to matter how long members of our community are apart, the bond that keeps us close, remains unbreakable. It seems strange to highlight examples of what defines our school when they’re seen every day but I feel I need to as they’re not often seen in the world outside our school gates.
I’ve seen on more than one occasion what is sometimes billed as an ‘attitude of gratitude’ – students thanking the teachers for their lesson as they leave, teachers thanking the students for their active participation in the lessons. I’ve had the chance to see students’ work across the school and the opportunity to comment positively on it – often at break times, and just a few words of praise and encouragement have been enthusiastically received. I’ve watched a lesson where a student authoritatively informed the class of the reason for a character’s actions in Shakespeare’s The Tempest and he did it in such an impassioned way.
Whatever the future, near or far, brings, I know that our students will remain true to their principles, resolute in the achievement of their goals and unbreakable in their support of each other and the school.
David Lewis | Principal
During the five years I’ve been at TLC Private School I’ve seen the school grow exponentially with new students joining those who’ve been with us since the school’s inception. We are very fortunate to have a unique student body and a cohort of teachers whose priority it is to provide the best educational experience for them.
In my role, this half-term has been spent reviewing planning to ensure lessons align with the requirements of the English National Curriculum, observing lessons and listening to feedback from teachers, parents and students.
Something that’s struck me from observing lessons in Primary and Secondary is how reluctant students are to answer questions unless they feel confident they have the ‘correct answer’. Learning mistakes are part of the learning journey and no one should be afraid to share their views and allow any misconceptions to be clarified. My vision is one where we are all continually learning and reflecting on what we’ve done well and how we can improve. As teachers, that means sharing best practice, identifying areas for development and learning from one another and, as students, reflecting upon successes and acting on advice for improvement.
This half-term we have introduced a new data tracking system that enables us to monitor student progress across all curriculum areas. The system will enable us to provide you with detailed information at parent consultations on your child’s progress against the learning objectives of the English National Curriculum.
During the next half-term our focus will be on assessment for learning strategies, providing opportunities for students to become more active in their learning, understanding what they do well and recognising what their targets are in each subject.
As part of our ongoing commitment to improving and maintaining high standards of teaching and learning, we would welcome any comments or suggestions from parents.
Catherine Lewis | Head of Teaching and Learning
I feel very privileged to have been appointed as the Head of the Secondary School at TLC. Since taking up my role in September, my journey has been very positive, beginning with the wonderful welcome and support I’ve received from staff and students alike.
I have worked in several schools over the past 22 years and have been involved in developing good practice and creating an effective and positive learning environment where students aim higher and achieve their best.
TLC is such a lovely school with a learning environment where it is very clear that within its strong community, every child matters. There is a very positive and tangible ethos which has been apparent from my first day at TLC, with staff and students working towards the same goal.
Looking ahead to the remainder of the academic year, I wish to further develop the ability of the students to become more effective and independent learners, to gain ultimate success and develop skills for life. We have a very talented staff with whom I am enjoying working, sharing good practice and helping each other to do the best for our students.
Tracey Hewitt | Head of Secondary
From the first day I joined TLC Private School in 2015, I was hooked! This is a school with extraordinary charm which holds children at its heart. We are lucky to have a highly-skilled, committed primary team who strive for the utmost success for our children and who have a caring and supportive ethos at their core. TLC Private School is a unique place and I feel privileged to be Head of Primary this year.
It is my aim to ensure that our school provides high quality education in a safe, respectful and inclusive environment that builds a foundation for life-long learning. Furthermore, I strongly believe that school gives the opportunity for children to discover and unlock hidden talents in a fun and nurturing environment. Every child has the ability to do amazing things if a school provides the right opportunities!
Now that our first half term has come to a close, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support. Whether this is your first term as a TLC parent or your tenth (it can’t be any more than that!), I hope you feel that under the current Covid-19 restrictions, all our teachers have worked very hard to offer the best possible education for your child.
Miranda Matthee | Head of Primary
I taught in the UK for 7 years in classes from Reception to Year 3 holding many positions of responsibility such as and including managing Literacy, Numeracy, Art and Special Needs. I have also worked in international schools in Egypt, Brunei, Thailand and Czech Republic. I have furthered my experience working in a children’s hospital ward and a psychological assessment and behaviour unit.
This is my second year as Head of Early Years at TLC Private School and I am so glad to be back in school from online learning and able to develop the Early Years department again.
As you can imagine, providing hands-on, interactive, kinaesthetic learning under all the current legal restrictions has been a challenge for the staff and the children, but we are adapting well. Everyday we are learning new ways to work within the safety guidelines yet still providing a high quality, appropriate and fun learning experiences for the class.
The children have been so resilient and adaptable, almost as if they have not noticed the changes. Despite the measures in place, it is lovely to see them interacting and playing together, how motivated they are with their learning, and leaving school happy and relaxed at the end of the day.
Toni Hayden | Head of Early Years
TLC Primary Displays
One of the elements of an effective learning environment is the production of creative, informative and celebratory displays which capture pupils’ attention, encouraging them to extend their learning whilst providing a medium for high quality student work to be displayed as examples to others. Our Principal and Head of Teaching and Learning set the Primary team a challenge and introduced an element of competition by providing a success criteria for this half-term’s display boards. Teachers reviewed one another’s displays and evaluated them based on criteria that included a design that was unique and eye catching, interactive and engaging, informative yet easy for students to understand, inclusive and one that narrated the students’ journey through their learning. Whilst all displays contained many elements of the success criteria, Mr Lines’ display was voted as the winner by his colleagues, with Ms Debbie coming second. We hope that the students have enjoyed interacting with the new displays around the Primary school.
TLC Library
We regularly hold book fairs in school to promote reading and give parents and children the opportunity to browse a wide selection of books. Our recent book fair was such a success we were able to add a good collection of bright and shiny new titles to our Library! Our next book fair will be held on December 2nd, just in time for Christmas.
Ms Matthews | TLC School Librarian
Reception Class - My Healthy Body
This term, in KG and Reception class we have been studying the topic ‘My Healthy Body’ and learning lots of ways to make sure we keep fit and healthy.
We looked at good hygiene, especially important in these current times, and have practised making sure we always wash our hands properly. Our very own Ms Sara used to be a dental nurse, so she worked with the children ensuring they know when, how and how much to clean their teeth.
We have looked at different types of exercise and the affect it has on our bodies. We completed sleep diaries to ensure we have the correct amount of sleep to help our bodies rest and allow us to concentrate better.
We also learnt about our diet, sorting food into the different food groups and ensuring we eat each food type in the correct amounts. We even made our own artwork using fruit, inspired by the work of Giuseppe Arcimboldo.
What a healthy bunch we are in Early Years!
Ms Toni
Year 1 - Exploring our senses
The year 1 students have explored their senses in science. Students first looked at pictures of themselves and their family members and learnt about the changes we go through as humans. We then discovered how to measure our hands and feet accurately and answered scientific questions. Our pupils made some interesting predictions! Once students understood why humans have five senses, we focused on one of our senses each week. While blindfolded, year 1’s had to smell different food items in mystery boxes and make sensible guesses as to what was inside. We also used a whistle and other instruments to test our hearing. Using a feely bag, students investigated their sense of touch by handling the items inside and assuming what each was.
Our outdoor ‘5 Senses Scavenger Hunt’ trained us to become Sense Detectives. The highlight of this topic was, however, the joy students had when being a Smell Detective!
Ms Miranda
Year 1 - Kandinsky draw along with Miss Debbie
Year 1 students have been drawing and colouring shapes in warm and cool colours inspired by Russian artist Wassily Kandinsky who was an Abstract artist who painted in colours to express shapes and emotions. Students progressed from painting the colour wheel of primary and secondary colours onto Kandinsky tubes of abstract colours painted to the music by Mozart to add the emotion to their artwork.
Ms Debbie
Year 1 / 2 - Abstract artists
This term in art we have been learning all about Abstract artists such as Kadinsky, Mondrian, Klee and Pollock. These artists used shape and colour to express their feelings. We learnt how to create shades and tints, as well as warm and cool colours to create artwork based on our emotions. We then created artwork based on theirs. Our favourite art project was creating drip paintings on the floor, just like Jackson Pollock. We mixed shades and used a combination of dripping and flicking brush techniques. We really enjoyed working with our cavasses on the floor and the freedom this style of paining gave us, it was a lot of fun!
This topic had lots of fun activities including Art & Design, Science, STEM, developing map and research skills and most students were very proud to share their work with the rest of the class.
Ms Louise
Who's who in Year 2?
In Art we have been drawing self portraits!
We used a template and followed step by step instructions so that our faces were in proportion.
We also used mirrors to help us with the shape and colour of our hair, skin and facial features.
We experimented with mixing colours and shading to match our own skin and hair.
Can you guess who is who?
Ms Emma
Year 3 - Our Trip to Agios Georgios
The children in Year 3 have been developing their field work and map skills during Geography lessons. In the classroom, the children learned about sketch maps and how to use a key and symbols to show landmarks on a map. Year 3 walked to the harbour at Agios Georgios and plotted significant landmarks on their sketch map. They identified restaurants, religious buildings, the marina and even the archaeological site. Back in the classroom, the children used their work to create a display of their sketch maps. Learning outdoors has really helped the children develop their field work skills and understanding.
Mr Lines
Year 3 / 4 Verocious Viscious Vikings
Year 3/4 have been studying, analysing and looking at the Viking period, the invaders that made longboats, travelled from Scandinavia to Britain and terrorised England during 793AD. Students have been making Viking shields, swords, spears, coins, jewellery and animal horns to drink from with Art. They have been learning about Viking life, laws and rituals.
Ms Debbie
Year 4 - The Anglo - Saxons are Coming!
In English this term, Year 4 have been working on their poetry skills and in particular writing their own odes. The children had to apply poetic devices such as alliteration, metaphors, similes and hyperbole to praise and glorify their favourite foods. A selection of tasty treats were chosen from oranges to olives and the children enjoyed listening to each other wax lyrical about glorious food!
Mr Richards
Year 5 - Space, planets and more
The Year 5 students have adjusted well to being back in a classroom environment after the unsettling period of lock down. Through our English lessons, we have discussed this dramatic turn of events, the impact it has had on our lives and given thought to our own personal heroes during this time. It has culminated in our stories being submitted in a Pearson’s UK nationwide competition for stories related to our Lock down Heroes. We have also been enjoying our science topic of Space and the planets. Learning some very interesting facts about the planets within our solar system. Remembering the order of the planets from the sun and also the size order! Exploring the idea of other possibly habitable planets and designing our own ideal planets. In addition, our art lessons have been focused on creating papier mache planets to orbit in the classroom.
Although disappointed that we cannot partake in school trips, we are completing our Space topic with an evening viewing the night sky through the telescope on Friday. If we are lucky enough to have a clear night, we hope to be able to see Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and the moon under the supervision of members of the Paphos Astronomy Club.
Ms Wendy & Ms Sam
My Lock down Hero by Maria Bondar
Year 6 - Shadows & light
Year 6 pupils have started the year off with great excitement! In Science we conducted scientific research on shadows and light, exploring questions like does the amount of light affect a shadow? How does the angle of a light source affect the size of a shadow?
Ms Evie
Art Club with Ms Debbie
Students have been creatively learning in a fun way, how to papier mache bugs such as ladybirds and butterflies, complete with wings, eyes and legs. Papier mache over frappe lids and decorateded with paint, glitter and google eyes. Students made other artworks from bamboo, and applying the foil ontop of string, burnishing it to leave an embossed impression of the coiled string. Students applied glitter glue and other accessories such as flowers, ladybirds and butterflies.
Secondary OXI day Assembly
The anniversary of 28 October 1940 when former military general and Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas said, “No” to an ultimatum made by Italian Prime Minister to allow Italian forces to occupy Greece or otherwise face war.
Cities in Cyprus, Greece as well as Greek churches and organisations all over the world also hold parades and festivities on this day.
TLC Secondary students celebrated the occasion in a school assembly. Students took part in various cultural performances which included music, speeches and poetry, all related to the significance of the day. At the end of the assembly, the National Anthem of Cyprus was sung with the participation of students and teachers.
My experience in Year 7, by Evelyn Scott
My experience in the first year of Secondary has been amazing so far. However, this start of the school year has been very different than previous years. We have had to adapt to the strange new world that we are now living in. Covid-19 has affected us all a lot this year, what with wearing masks, social distancing, no sharing and so many other regulations that we now have to follow. That being said, we are making the best of it and are so grateful to be able to interact with our friends in person! We have to have a lot more responsibility and organisational skills now that we are in Secondary, but I love being organised so this is one of my favourite things! We also have a lot more homework and tests that we always need to study for. Secondary also comes with different uniforms, they are very smart and grown-up. The privileges that we now have are wonderful, at break time we can go up to the vending machines in the cafeteria, we can purchase lockers to store what we need for the school week and more! We have also had class elections, where we had the opportunity to write a speech to present to our peers and to vote for Class Captains and Vice-Captains for the student council. Everyone has been very welcoming and caring towards our class and always check on us when they pass us or have a moment at break. I feel that collectively our class has settled in to the new environment and are adapting very well. Secondary has been full of ups and downs in just a few weeks, so I can’t even begin to imagine what exciting secrets it holds for the rest of the school year!
My Experience in Year 7 by Aili Bielicki
My experience in year 7 has been frightening and scary, the move up from primary was worrying because I had no idea who my teachers would be and if there would be any new children in my class. Primary was definitely much easier when you consider the change in the amount of work but I have thoroughly enjoyed beginning secondary after finding all the answers to all the worrying questions buzzing in my head. We have interesting lessons with all the most interesting teachers. We have all learned new things and that is what I have enjoyed most. So far secondary has been amazing. I feel like I have settled in now and so have a lot of the others. My form tutor, Miss Valentina, is caring and kind and so far, I have had the most exciting experience in Year 7L anyone could imagine.
My Identity
Whether it is through family history, culture or ethnicity, interests, achievements or hobbies, children derive a sense of pride, self-worth and consistency from their identities. The year 7 students have been looking at the meaning of identity and the importance of their own identity. They were tasked to design their own identity poster and did an excellent job! Well done!
Ms Valentina
Years 7 and 8 Drama
Years 7 and 8 have made a great start to the new academic year in Drama.
To begin the year’s learning we have been exploring the three most important skills used in performance; vocal expression, physical expression and collaboration. Throughout the weeks, the students have taken part in warm ups for each skill and training exercises to develop that skill. They have then ended each lesson by presenting group performances, which the students have devised and rehearsed themselves. As part of the collaboration process, classmates have then offered each group constructive criticism, pointing out what they enjoyed about the performance and any suggestions for improvement. There has been no shortage of creativity and it has been a pleasure to watch the students create soundscapes, tableau, multilevel performances and parodies of fairytales. Most impressive and rewarding has been watching the students work together, merging ideas and overcoming obstacles and as a group; skills which are not only crucial to Drama but also to a successful future as an adult.
Great job all!
Ms Ally
From the music department
The music department is delighted to announce, that the first rehearsals of the newly formed Secondary School Choir have taken place this half term. Students from all year groups in Secondary have been welcomed to join and we have around 15 members so far. They are currently rehearsing for the service of Remembrance, where they will perform alongside the primary school choir. Rehearsals currently take place outside, during the second half of the lunch break on a Tuesday. It is a well-known fact that singing relieves stress and improves your mood, so if your child enjoys singing and performance, please do encourage them to join
Y9 Explore Africa
Across this last half term Y9 have been studying traditional music from West Africa, learning about the instruments they use and performing their own version of a traditional piece. They have really enjoyed playing outside and making lots of noise around the Parklands grounds – next term they will be composing their own rhythms to teach to other ‘tribes!’
Ms Clare
Back to School Reminders
All TLC students are to return to school in winter uniform.
Many of you will have seen the government’s announcement this afternoon increasing the restrictions that apply to Limassol and Paphos in order to combat rising numbers of Covid-19 cases.
This will affect the operation of our school in the following ways:
- No team sports can operate for children under 18. This means that until the expiry of the restrictions on November 9th, we cannot operate after school football or rugby academies and in the school day, PE lessons will have to be theory based rather than practical.
- All after school activities will be suspended until November 9th as this involves the mixing of children from different year groups.
- Masks must be worn by all secondary students at all times in school apart from when eating and drinking. This applies to arriving and departing school and all break times.
We appreciate your help in ensuring our school abides by the restrictions and keeps our students safe.