From the Head of Secondary
Although I am familiar to many of the parents from my years in the mathematics department in The Sultan’s School, some may not be aware of the new ‘hat’ that I am wearing this year, that of Head of Secondary. This role is a newly created position of responsibility for the administration and education leadership of grades 7 through 12 of the school.

This is an exciting year of new challenges within the Secondary School for the students and the staff. The main new focus for the secondary staff this term has been the introduction of IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) courses in Grades 9 and 10, which, for the first time in the history of the school, has given students an element of choice in their subjects. These courses are now well underway and student and staff feedback has been positive.
Following the successful visit by the IB (International Baccalaureate) authorisation team at the beginning of December, parents should be aware that the secondary staff will now be busy, behind the scenes, laying the foundations for the successful implementation of the IB diploma programme which will begin in Grade 11 next academic year.

Amidst the excitement of the introduction of these new external qualifications, we mustn’t forget our current Grade 12 students as they sit for their Al-Thanawiya Al-Amah. We wish them well in their forthcoming examinations.

As we break for a well-deserved holiday, I would like to take this opportunity to thank: the secondary staff for their endeavors this term; the parents for their support; and the students for all their hard work. Have a happy holiday.
Mr. Trevor Clark
Head of Secondary
Pastoral Care

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to the new pastoral system in the school, co-ordinated by myself and the Heads of Year. Our role is to monitor the academic and pastoral progress of your child and provide an open door where they can discuss problems, ideas or any other issues which may concern them. The system also aims to improve communication with parents to enable us to work together to quickly solve any difficulties which may arise. The Heads of Year are:

Miss Rebecca Lodwig, Grades 7 & 8 Girls
Mr Andrew Taylor, Grades 7 & 8 Boys
Mr Russell Croft, Grades 9 & 10
Miss Carol Williams, Grades 11 & 12

I would like to encourage all parents to use this service and feel free to contact the relevant Head of Year about any issues which may be of concern to you or your child.
Mr Marwan Chahhoud
Senior Master
From the Heads of Year
Grades 9 and 10
It is hard to believe that the grades nine and ten are almost mid-way through the year. Both have settled quickly to meet the demands of their new I.G.C.S.E. courses. As their Head of year, I am looking to ensure that all students continue to make the transition smoothly. I have been particularly pleased with the excellent start the Grade 10’s have made.

The results from the November mid – term I.G.C.S.E. eaminations were very encouraging and highlighted the mature and conscientious
approach that many of the students have adopted. The next round of examinations are scheduled immediately after the mid – year vacation. It is imperative that our children use their time wisely, ensuring that, as well as enjoying their much needed holiday, they also have an effective revision programme in place.

Year assemblies have focused on exam preparation, time management and revision strategies. Our student council meetings in grades 9/10 have been very productive and I look forward to working closely with these students throughout the year.

I am confident that, with the continued guidance, experience and support of subject teachers and parents alike, all students will realise their potential.
Mr. Russ Croft
Head of Year, Grades 9/10
Grades 11 and 12
Grades 11 and 12 continue to be very busy!

Grade 12 have begun applying to Universities all around the world while also preparing for their General Certificate exams. We wish them luck as they work hard to achieve academic success, but their contribution to extra curricular activities also deserves a mention. Members of the new Grade 12 Yearbook Committee have made particularly pleasing progress completing the planning stage for the Yearbook and submitting features ready for printing. Prefect duties have been extended to include the Library and we now have over 30 Prefects: all students from Grades 11 and 12 willing to give up their break or lunchtime to supervise and help others. Our Grade 11 House Captains have established a calendar of events for the year and have made an excellent start to their roles encouraging participation in House events/activities.

I am very pleased with our students’ response to these new initiatives and look forward to future developments.
Miss. Carol Williams
Head of Year, Grades 11/12