sunday mail privateeducationcyprus-mail.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2016-02-26-sunday.pdffeb 26,...

16
“S CHOOL teach- es students skills they need to succeed on the job and in other areas of life. School also helps stu- dents achieve a well-round- ed knowledge base, which leads to a more enriching life.” This is what reference. com has to say on the sub- ject of why we go to school – it’s not just about the books – and they go on to say that societies with well-educated kids have lower rates of vio- lence and crime and school is also important for devel- oping social skills. That sounds great, but what exactly do schools on the island think it is impor- tant to foster? Should it be computer skills as we live in a technological world? Or is it teamwork which will make us more efficient and maybe even better people? The motto at the Ameri- can Academy Larnaca is ‘to grow and to serve’. The school’s group The Helping Hands was initially formed in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. The group’s aim is to offer practical help to refugees in Cyprus and abroad, focusing on the needs of the children and families. It works closely with other charities and vol- untary groups in Larnaca to help refugees at the Kofinou camp and within the local community. “The refugees at Kofinou have a severe lack of toilet- ries, so the students have been collecting things like toilet paper and they have also raised money,” director of the school Marija Ullman said. A young Somalian was re- cently offered accommoda- tion with a family from the Helping Hands group while he was searching for some- where he could live safely. The benefits for the stu- dents are to experience the problems of others and to learn how to be responsible citizens. There are also a lot of other things going on, from a Tedx school based talk club to re- cycling, and lately the kids have planted a herb garden on the premises. Meanwhile, at the Interna- tional School of Paphos an environmental programme is the centre of activities. “We constantly train our students on the actions un- dertaken within the school and how they affect people and the environment at lo- cal and global level,” Aristi Andrioti, CEO of the school explained. “We introduced the role of an eco observer within our school whose responsibility it is to moni- tor and organise ecologi- cal activities that occur at school.” This year’s campaign is Revitalise Paphos, focus- ing on the environment, the protection of forests and raising awareness about the devastating effects of fire. “We monitor biodiversity, re- cording the different species of wildlife that can be found at school and in our region. Also, as an ecological school we voluntarily participate in the reforestation of Argaka,” Andrioti added. Another school that has a very strong ecological com- mitment is The Heritage school. From the time the school moved from the cen- tre of Limassol to a large campus on the Limassol to Troodos road in 2007 they have tried to make sure that everything that evolves around the building is in line with this commitment. In keeping with the land- scape, low-rise buildings have been constructed, the grounds planted with indig- enous trees and shrubs, and wildlife is encouraged. This is an ongoing pro- cess. Lately the school has installed a biological treat- ment facility, more solar panels and bought electric cars. Children are actively in- volved in projects in order to raise their awareness. For example, a pond has been created to encourage chil- dren to learn about wildlife in a hydrophilic environ- ment. The Grammar school in Nicosia has a very differ- ent priority, focusing on 21st century skills. The pro- gramme which is geared to develop critical thinking, problem solving, creativ- ity and teamwork involves robotics. “Students get to collaborate and analyse a particular problem as a team and are encouraged to find creative solutions,” Headmaster Andreas Afanis elaborated. The project in- volves both classroom work and a robotic club, for which all the necessary equipment has been purchased by the school. Yet another approach is used by TLC, this one hav- ing nothing to do with ecol- ogy or technology but an emphasis on personal de- velopment. The institution offers a broad and not ex- clusively academic educa- tion in a bid to help students become responsible adults who can make a difference in society. Eight goals are promoted: communication, cooperation, respect, moral- ity, enquiry, thoughtfulness, adaptability and resilience. One is highlighted each week in the weekly assembly. “Students nominate each other for having noticed this quality in others,” TLC’s Principal David Lewis ex- plained, “for example they announce Catherine has shown resilience by not giv- ing up on a math problem this week.” According to Lewis, the fact that pupils are being noticed and sin- gled out in this way by their peers greatly improves their maturity and there is nota- ble progress throughout the school year. The American Academy in Nicosia also aims to make students into better people. One way they go about it is their UN model programme, in which around 70 per cent of year 12 and 13 students take part. The students who take part in this interna- tional programme travel to Berlin where they meet with others to form a model of a UN conference. There, the students are asked to debate and find resolutions. This is to fos- ter their thinking skills and critical thinking, but also to make them more resilient, a goal of this school. “They be- come aware that we are part of a global world with global problems and learn to cope with whatever life brings,” senior teacher George Ioan- nides said. Along the same lines, the American International School in Cyprus believes that cultivating and devel- oping international minded- ness in their students is of paramount importance in today’s complex and con- flict-ridden world. They aim to accomplish this by weav- ing concepts of internation- al mindedness into instruc- tional units across all grade levels and subject areas. Students and teachers cre- ated a human rights policy together which is being fol- lowed as a code of conduct and a tool for mediating and resolving conflict. SUNDAY MAIL • February 26, 2017 17 special report Private Education As private schools across the island try to differentiate themselves their focus shifts from the academic. Annette Chrysostomou looks at what is on offer Beyond the classroom Beyond the classroom Robotic club at Robotic club at the Grammar the Grammar School and School and (below) (below) students at students at the American the American Academy Academy Larnaca have Larnaca have collected items collected items for Syrian for Syrian refugees refugees

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Page 1: SUNDAY MAIL PrivateEducationcyprus-mail.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2016-02-26-SUNDAY.pdfFeb 26, 2016  · that cultivating and devel- ... creativity and leadership skills, AISC

“SCHOOL teach-es students skills they need to succeed on

the job and in other areas of life. School also helps stu-dents achieve a well-round-ed knowledge base, which leads to a more enriching life.” This is what reference.com has to say on the sub-ject of why we go to school – it’s not just about the books – and they go on to say that societies with well-educated kids have lower rates of vio-lence and crime and school is also important for devel-oping social skills.

That sounds great, but what exactly do schools on the island think it is impor-tant to foster? Should it be computer skills as we live in a technological world? Or is it teamwork which will make us more effi cient and maybe even better people?

The motto at the Ameri-can Academy Larnaca is ‘to grow and to serve’. The school’s group The Helping Hands was initially formed in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. The group’s aim is to offer practical help to refugees in Cyprus and abroad, focusing on the needs of the children and families. It works closely

with other charities and vol-untary groups in Larnaca to help refugees at the Kofi nou camp and within the local community.

“The refugees at Kofi nou have a severe lack of toilet-ries, so the students have been collecting things like toilet paper and they have also raised money,” director of the school Marija Ullman said.

A young Somalian was re-cently offered accommoda-tion with a family from the Helping Hands group while he was searching for some-where he could live safely.

The benefi ts for the stu-dents are to experience the problems of others and to learn how to be responsible citizens.

There are also a lot of other things going on, from a Tedx school based talk club to re-cycling, and lately the kids have planted a herb garden on the premises.

Meanwhile, at the Interna-tional School of Paphos an environmental programme is the centre of activities. “We constantly train our students on the actions un-dertaken within the school and how they affect people and the environment at lo-cal and global level,” Aristi

Andrioti, CEO of the school explained. “We introduced the role of an eco observer within our school whose responsibility it is to moni-tor and organise ecologi-cal activities that occur at school.”

This year’s campaign is Revitalise Paphos, focus-ing on the environment, the protection of forests and raising awareness about the devastating effects of fi re. “We monitor biodiversity, re-cording the different species of wildlife that can be found at school and in our region. Also, as an ecological school we voluntarily participate in the reforestation of Argaka,” Andrioti added.

Another school that has a very strong ecological com-mitment is The Heritage school. From the time the school moved from the cen-tre of Limassol to a large campus on the Limassol to Troodos road in 2007 they have tried to make sure that everything that evolves around the building is in line with this commitment.

In keeping with the land-scape, low-rise buildings have been constructed, the grounds planted with indig-enous trees and shrubs, and wildlife is encouraged.

This is an ongoing pro-cess. Lately the school has installed a biological treat-ment facility, more solar panels and bought electric cars.

Children are actively in-volved in projects in order to raise their awareness. For example, a pond has been created to encourage chil-dren to learn about wildlife in a hydrophilic environ-ment.

The Grammar school in Nicosia has a very differ-ent priority, focusing on 21st century skills. The pro-gramme which is geared to develop critical thinking, problem solving, creativ-ity and teamwork involves robotics. “Students get to collaborate and analyse a particular problem as a team and are encouraged to fi nd creative solutions,” Headmaster Andreas Afanis elaborated. The project in-volves both classroom work and a robotic club, for which

all the necessary equipment has been purchased by the school.

Yet another approach is used by TLC, this one hav-ing nothing to do with ecol-ogy or technology but an emphasis on personal de-velopment. The institution offers a broad and not ex-clusively academic educa-tion in a bid to help students become responsible adults who can make a difference in society. Eight goals are promoted: communication, cooperation, respect, moral-ity, enquiry, thoughtfulness, adaptability and resilience. One is highlighted each week in the weekly assembly.

“Students nominate each other for having noticed this quality in others,” TLC’s Principal David Lewis ex-plained, “for example they announce Catherine has shown resilience by not giv-ing up on a math problem this week.” According to Lewis, the fact that pupils

are being noticed and sin-gled out in this way by their peers greatly improves their maturity and there is nota-ble progress throughout the school year.

The American Academy in Nicosia also aims to make students into better people. One way they go about it is their UN model programme, in which around 70 per cent of year 12 and 13 students take part. The students who take part in this interna-tional programme travel to Berlin where they meet with others to form a model of a UN conference.

There, the students are asked to debate and fi nd resolutions. This is to fos-ter their thinking skills and critical thinking, but also to make them more resilient, a goal of this school. “They be-come aware that we are part of a global world with global problems and learn to cope with whatever life brings,” senior teacher George Ioan-nides said.

Along the same lines, the American International School in Cyprus believes that cultivating and devel-oping international minded-ness in their students is of paramount importance in today’s complex and con-fl ict-ridden world. They aim to accomplish this by weav-ing concepts of internation-al mindedness into instruc-tional units across all grade levels and subject areas. Students and teachers cre-ated a human rights policy together which is being fol-lowed as a code of conduct and a tool for mediating and resolving confl ict.

SUNDAY MAIL • February 26, 2017

17

special report

PrivateEducation

As private schools across the island try to diff erentiate themselves their focus shifts from the academic. Annette Chrysostomou looks at what is on off er

Beyond the classroomBeyond the classroom

Robotic club at Robotic club at the Grammar the Grammar

School and School and (below) (below)

students at students at the American the American

Academy Academy Larnaca have Larnaca have

collected items collected items for Syrian for Syrian refugeesrefugees

Page 2: SUNDAY MAIL PrivateEducationcyprus-mail.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2016-02-26-SUNDAY.pdfFeb 26, 2016  · that cultivating and devel- ... creativity and leadership skills, AISC

18February 26, 2017 • SUNDAY MAIL

PrivateEducation

CELEBRATING its 30th anniversary this year, the American International School

in Cyprus (AISC) has been delivering a high-quality American and internation-al education to students aged 3-18 years, since 1987. A school of choice for chil-dren from all over Cyprus, AISC’s exceptional global approach, and long-stand-ing IB-accredited diploma programme create a path-way for graduates to attend the best universities in the world and excel as future leaders in careers of their choice. With a strong focus on academic excellence, in-dividualised care and a ho-listic student approach that cultivates critical thinking, creativity and leadership skills, AISC graduates be-come lifelong learners and true global citizens.

A world class education

AISC achieves its edu-cational mission through highly experienced, warm, passionate and dedicated teachers from the USA, Canada, Cyprus and around the world, bringing unique perspectives and the best teaching methodologies, drawing from a wide range of experiences.

AISC provides a positive learning environment, offer-ing academic rigour comple-mented by a diverse array of interesting and challeng-ing extra-curricular activi-ties. The school’s students are intellectually curious, engaged, enthusiastic and socially responsible, actively contributing to local and global causes.

Nearly 300 students from over 42 countries attend AISC. With a stable and ever-growing local student population, and a diverse international demographic, students experience and participate in an interna-tionally-minded educational environment that prepares them for global success.

AISC is set on an urban campus, located in the city centre of Nicosia. The school is in a prime location, metres from embassies, multinational companies, ministries, offi ces, a variety

of amenities, sporting cen-tres and parks.

Happy, successful

students

The school is organised into four divisions: Early Childhood (Pre-K – KG5), Elementary (Grades 1-5), Middle School (Grades 6-8), and High School (Grades 9-12). All grade levels are focused on student-centred learning in welcoming and friendly classroom environ-ments. A robust counselling programme, and a strong home-school partnership between teachers, parents and school leaders provides students social and emo-tional support, building a positive community of confi -dent learners.

Rigorous, triple-

accredited programme

Following an American curriculum, and authorised to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) in the senior years, AISC’s pro-grammes are fully accred-ited by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges and Schools (MSA) in the USA, and the Coun-cil of International Schools (CIS). AISC is an approved US College Board Testing Centre.

As an Esol Education school, AISC is part of a network of 10 international schools spanning fi ve coun-tries, serving over 11,000 students across the world.

To fi nd out more, go to www.aisc.ac.cy

American International School in Cyprus: 30 years of global success

Page 3: SUNDAY MAIL PrivateEducationcyprus-mail.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2016-02-26-SUNDAY.pdfFeb 26, 2016  · that cultivating and devel- ... creativity and leadership skills, AISC

19SUNDAY MAIL • February 26, 2017

PrivateEducation

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Page 4: SUNDAY MAIL PrivateEducationcyprus-mail.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2016-02-26-SUNDAY.pdfFeb 26, 2016  · that cultivating and devel- ... creativity and leadership skills, AISC

20February 26, 2017 • SUNDAY MAIL

PrivateEducation

The Heritage Private School: English school with an international outlookThe large and mature cam-pus of the Heritage Private School and Institute is an impressive sight along the Limassol to Troodos road.

This Ministry of Education approved and academically selective school of over 1,000 culturally diverse students aged 2 to 18 aims to provide the same high quality of edu-cation as a well-respected UK private school, yet with competitive fees. Teach-ing is in English, following the Cambridge Primary and UK National Curricula, and qualifi cations include IGC-SEs, A Levels and a School Leaving Certifi cate (Apol-ytirion) at the end of Year 13. The Heritage is a Cambridge International Fellowship Centre and a centre for Cam-bridge and Pearson Edexcel International Examinations. Students are thoroughly supported with higher edu-cation applications and pro-gress to university in coun-tries worldwide, many with exceptional results.

Continuity and growthThe Heritage emphasises

lifelong learning and conti-nuity. Many students join the Early Years School and then progress through Pri-mary and Secondary with smooth transition being fa-cilitated by all buildings be-ing on one integrated cam-pus. Recent new educational initiatives include the Cam-bridge Schools Leadership

for Learning programme, 1:1 Learning Using Apple iPads in the Primary School and After School Kids, the Her-itage’s 1:20 p.m.-5:00 p.m. after-school care facility for children aged 3-7.

EthosCentral to the school’s

ethos, nurtured within a caring and orderly environ-ment, are academic, person-al and social development, team spirit, self-discipline, respect, understanding of others, and equality of op-portunity regardless of back-ground, gender, religion or any other differences. The well-qualifi ed and experi-enced teachers aim to de-velop each individual’s full potential and the numerous academic and extracurricu-lar activities help everyone fi nd their own niche. Stu-dents are encouraged to ac-

cept responsibility for their learning from an early age and be proud of their efforts and achievements.

Extracurricular, Institute and Summer School

There are a wide variety of after-school clubs and classes, basketball and foot-ball academies and the an-nual Summer School. Also offered are Institute courses for adults, including lan-guages, accounting and mu-sic. Performing arts at The Heritage offers extra drama, music and dance classes and school productions are popular and successful, with West Side Story the next to be staged, in March. Stu-dents participate widely in EU and international pro-jects, competitions and vol-unteering to extend learning and experience.

FacilitiesClassrooms have interactive

whiteboards, heating and air conditioning, and are rich with stimulating educational displays. There are special-ist drama and dance stu-dios, sound-insulated music rooms, well-equipped science and computer laboratories, tennis courts, cricket prac-tice lanes, fi ve-a-side football pitches plus a FIFA Star 1 full-size pitch, a Learning Re-source Centre, and a newly-extended cafeteria serving home-cooked food. The mul-tifunction hall and stunning 1,200 seat outdoor amphithe-atre host school and commu-nity events. There is ample

car parking, plus a school bus service.

The Heritage Private School is a pioneer in caring for the environment and a leader in social responsibil-ity and sustainability in the community with initiatives in recycling, composting, so-lar energy, water conserva-tion and ecosystems.

Latest awardsThe Heritage has consist-

ently held the prestigious British Council International School Award for Outstand-ing Development of the In-ternational Dimension in the Curriculum since 2008 and is the only school in Cyprus to

hold the current 2015-2018 accreditation.

In recognition of the top-performers in external exam-inations, Heritage students won an impressive 29 Cam-bridge and Pearson Out-standing Learner Awards following the June 2016 ex-aminations, a record number for the school.

InvitationThe Heritage Private School

warmly invites you to entrust the education and pastoral care of your children to their dedicated team. Join them and share their superb mod-ern facilities, excellent teach-ing and beautiful location.

Page 5: SUNDAY MAIL PrivateEducationcyprus-mail.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2016-02-26-SUNDAY.pdfFeb 26, 2016  · that cultivating and devel- ... creativity and leadership skills, AISC

21SUNDAY MAIL • February 26, 2017

PrivateEducation

IN Cyprus, many younger and older people take advantage of li-censed educational institutes to extend and enhance their learn-ing. Younger people may use them to gain additional qualifi cations or to learn a new language, such as becoming fl uent in Greek, while adults may use the institute routes to improve their English, both conversational and business, so they can get more out of life and progress with their chosen career.

A commitment to ongoing per-sonal and professional develop-ment is referred to as lifelong learn-ing and it’s a good way to describe a formal but fun part of what we all do every day – learn something new, each day of our lives.

Many people today use what are called MOOCs (Massive Online Open Courses) to feed their thirst for learning while others trawl through interesting articles online to expand their knowledge.

If you want a more formal but equally social way of learning then institutes are a good option. Some choose to offer vocational courses as well as academic programmes. Cyprus also has a branch of U3A, the University of the Third Age, for

retired people eager to learn new skills and hobbies.

Lifelong learning has many ben-efi ts. With each skill or area of knowledge you consolidate, it bolsters your CV and your overall appeal to employers. It can help socially by enabling you to have something new to talk about and there is a growing body of evidence highlighting the positive effects on

your overall psychological wellbe-ing.

Lifelong learning is a commit-ment, you will need to WANT to do

it or NEED to do it, to ensure you persevere with the course. It’s all too easy to let courses drift on cold winter days or when the tempta-

tion of the pool is there in summer. The best encouragement is that once you have completed your course, the sense of achievement will have made it all worthwhile and, as the human brain seems to have an infi nite capacity for knowl-edge, you can then look forward, better prepared, to continue your lifelong learning in other areas.

TLC institute offers a range of courses for students and adults who want to expand their range of qualifi cations.

Courses and activities include: Mathematics, Chemistry, Eng-

lish, Greek, Spanish, Computing, Guitar, Piano, Vocal Training, Arts & Crafts, Football, Dance and Dra-ma.

For more information on the availability and range of courses and activities at the TLC Institute, contact the registrar at [email protected]

Lifelong learning at TLC

Page 6: SUNDAY MAIL PrivateEducationcyprus-mail.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2016-02-26-SUNDAY.pdfFeb 26, 2016  · that cultivating and devel- ... creativity and leadership skills, AISC

FOLEY’S is a private, independent, inter-national day-school catering for all age

groups from Pre-Reception to Upper Sixth (4-18 years old). It currently has around 600 pupils across the whole age range and, until this ac-ademic year, was at one site in the town centre of Limas-sol (Homer Street).

However, in an exciting development this year, the primary school (Pre-Recep-tion - Year 6) moved to new, state-of-the-art premises in Ayios Athanasios. The building work at this brand-new site continues with new sports facilities currently under construction – includ-ing a sports hall, a swimming pool and an athletics track surrounding a full-sized as-troturf pitch. The secondary school will eventually move to the new site but, in the meantime, it is benefi ting from the extra space avail-able at Homer Street!

The school has pupils from a very wide range of back-grounds and nationalities, around 50 different coun-tries being represented. All lessons (apart from Greek and foreign language les-sons) are taught in English. The school broadly follows the UK National Curriculum at primary and secondary level, although this is adapt-ed slightly to make it more relevant to international pu-pils.

Throughout the school there is a positive approach to behaviour and social awareness, courtesy and consideration for others are encouraged. This creates

a disciplined but friendly environment in which pu-pils and teachers can work together in a spirit of coop-eration and mutual respect. Foley’s takes care to include parents through regular re-porting and meetings and encourages warm and open relationship with parents, as this is felt to be vital to the educational process.

The school is very well-equipped on both sites for all of the subjects offered, including sciences and com-puting. Data projectors and interactive whiteboards are available in all rooms at the secondary school, while the new primary school has the most up-to-date interactive fl at screens.

In the primary school, the aim is to give children a broad and balanced start to their education and the

confi dence to achieve their potential in a happy, in-dustrious and stimulating environment. The children follow a broad and bal-anced curriculum appropri-ate to their age and ability. Each boy and girl is looked on as an individual and the school’s positive approach to behaviour fosters a sense of personal responsibility. The main objective is that children feel learning is fun and that they are happy and

confi dent. The school seeks to bring out the best in eve-ry pupil - to develop skills, talents, curiosity and imagi-nation.

In the lower secondary school (Years 7-9) all pupils study the following sub-jects – English, Maths, His-tory, Geography, General Science, Information Tech-nology, French, Art, Music, Physical Education and Drama. Greek for native-speakers follows the curric-ulum of the Cyprus Ministry of Education and Greek as a foreign language is also available.

Pupils begin IGCSE/GCSE courses in Form 4 (Year 10) and sit the external exami-nations at the end of Form 5 (Year 11). Maths and Eng-lish/English Literature are compulsory at this level and pupils usually choose be-

tween fi ve and eight other subjects from the following list: Geography, History, Bi-ology, Chemistry, Physics, IT, Art, PE, Drama, Music, French, Spanish and Ger-man. Greek is compulsory for native-speakers who sit their IGCSE in Form 4 and the A level in Form 5.

A level courses begin in the Lower Sixth Form (Year 12) and the following subjects are offered: English Litera-ture, Mathematics, Biology,

Chemistry, Physics, Geog-raphy, History, Economics, Art, French and Spanish. Most universities require 3 A levels for admission, although many pupils at Foley’s choose to take four subjects (fi ve, if they include Greek or another native lan-guage).

The school has been highly successful in these examina-tions over the years and the vast majority of pupils suc-ceed in gaining places at top universities in the UK, vari-ous countries in Europe, the USA and Canada.

All the teachers are uni-versity graduates. In addi-

tion they hold a PGCE (Post Graduate Certifi cate in Ed-ucation), QTS or equivalent so that they are fully quali-fi ed to teach their subjects according to both UK De-partment for Education and Cyprus Ministry of Educa-tion requirements. The ma-jority of teachers have ex-

22February 26, 2017 • SUNDAY MAIL

PrivateEducation

The Primary School has moved to a new campus with the Secondary to follow

Foley’s School – an

The school is very well-equipped on both sites for all of the subjects offered,

including sciences and computing.

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perience of teaching in the UK or other UK curriculum schools worldwide.

From its earliest days, Foley’s has placed a strong emphasis on extra-curricu-lar activities and these are considered to be very much a part of a child’s overall education. A wide range is on offer, particularly in the fi elds of sports, music, dra-ma and dance.

Sports include athletics, football, netball, basket-ball, swimming, volleyball, cricket, table-tennis and several other activities such as unihockey, handball and softball for younger pupils. Some activities take place on the school premises, while others make use of lo-cal facilities. Gymnastics is taught by a specialist coach

in the primary school and pupils progress to a high level forming a squad which performs at most school functions.

There are Junior and Sen-ior choirs, a brass band, a marching band, a swing band and a band which plays a variety of modern music.

Drama and dance feature highly, with a full-scale mu-sical each year as well as several other productions.

Pupils over 14 years old can participate in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Scheme, includ-ing the expedition section. Younger secondary pupils take part in supervised hik-ing and camping expedi-tions, which will help them to prepare for the more de-

manding Award expeditions later.

Other activities include Model United Nations, Cookery Club, Biology Club (Using PCR), Chemistry Club, French and Spanish Cine Clubs, Young Enter-prise and Robotics Club.

Pupils with a range of in-terests will fi nd themselves in school doing some activ-ity or other most afternoons of the week.

Contribution to the local community, through char-ity fund raising events is another longstanding tra-dition at Foley’s. Pupils are encouraged to organise and participate in a vari-ety of such events through the year – recent examples include a Sports Mara-thon, a Charity Auction and a Retro Fashion Show.

The Foley’s School Chari-ties Fund donates mainly to children’s and medical charities in Cyprus.

Each year, a number of school trips are organised, both locally and abroad. In recent years, the school has run trips to Athens, Paris, Geneva, Barcelona, China and Vietnam.

A Brief History Foley’s school was found-

ed in 1970 by Ward and Pat Foley. The school originally opened in Famagusta and by 1974 it was well- estab-lished, with about 250 pu-pils, all at secondary level. However, you will recog-nise the signifi cance of that year – 1974. Disaster struck and the Foley fam-ily and most of their pupils

were forced to evacuate Famagusta and the school overnight.

After several months camping in Dhekelia, hop-ing to return to Famagusta, it became apparent that this would not be possible and the family moved to Limassol. Here they man-aged to gather together some of their former pupils and began re-establishing

the school. They were for-tunate to fi nd a vacant school building in town, which had originally been constructed for the RAF, and Limassol Grammar and Junior School was born. Over the years, the school became known lo-cally as Foley’s and in more recent times this has be-come the school’s offi cial name.

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exciting new phase!

Entrance exams for Form 1 (Year 7) of the secondary school take place on Thursday March 16.

A limited number of places are also available in Year 10 to begin IGCSEs and Year 12 to begin A levels.

For further informationSee the website: www.foleysschool.com, Tel: Primary School 25 887777 and Secondary School 25 584191

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By Carola Lang Howard

WHEN families visit Little Gems Montessori Nursery I am often asked, “So, what is the difference between a Montessori school and other nurseries?” Well, be-ing a passionate Montessori pedagogue, I love this ques-tion and can talk about it for a long time! However, for this article I have narrowed it down to a kind of 3+3 an-swer, that is, three obvious

differences of how a Montes-sori classroom is run, and three top benefi ts of what Montessori education offers children.

3 Differences in how we teach1. Vertical Grouping. Tradi-tionally we are used to chil-dren being segregated into classes of the same age. A Montessori setting on the other hand differs as we aim to work with three ages simul-

taneously, that is, children who are three to six years old in the same classroom, re-ferred to as vertical grouping. This works wonderfully as the classroom develops a family-like feeling, creating a ‘sib-ling’ situation where younger children look up to their older friends, and the older chil-dren take great pride in shar-ing their skills and knowledge with their younger peers. Re-spect for self and others, as well as, helpfulness is thereby fostered.

2. 3 Hours ninterrupted WorkcycleTraditionally schools break up their day into several shorter group activities such as: half hour literacy, maths, music, art etc. At Little Gems Montessori Nursery we differ in this approach as we instead offer a three-hour uninterrupted workcycle to our children. With careful guidance and individual at-tention from their teachers the children choose their activities, become fully en-grossed in what they are do-ing, and repeat the exercise until satisfi ed. We may just want to consider ourselves of how frustrating it is to be interrupted when we have found our fl ow of work. Chil-dren react the same way! By allowing a longer workcycle the children have the oppor-tunity to develop their con-centration, which is key to all learning!3. Active LearningWhat do we mean by ac-tive learning? In difference to passive learning, that is, learning being dependent upon teachers’ instruction, the Montessori environment is prepared as an active learning environment rich in stimulating and challeng-ing activities where children learn through doing, fi gur-ing out and problem solving. The Montessori materials (toys) are carefully designed hands-on materials where hand and mind work togeth-er at all times laying solid foundations for every step of a child’s development.

3 Differences of whatthe children learn1. Self- Construct & Inde-pendenceThe ethos of a Montessori nursery is that education is pupil-led. Children learn and progress at their own pace developing independ-ence and understanding of the world around them. Independence is therefore encouraged from day 1 at Little Gems Montessori, both physical and intellec-tual. In our classrooms we learn how to look after both our own needs, such as dressing or preparing one’s snack, as well as our envi-ronment, which for instance may include looking after

our plants or pets. By being trusted with such responsi-ble tasks the children devel-op healthy attitudes about the world around them. 2. The 3 R’sLearning to read, write and count should be a joyful ex-perience, not tedious. Many schools pride themselves on having a pre-reading, or pre-maths curriculum. In a Montessori setting chil-dren actually learn to read, write and do maths into the 100s and 1,000s while in pre-school with joy through games and attractive mate-rials. Every piece of material builds on the child’s existing knowledge and can be tai-lored to meet the needs of each individual child.3. Personal, Social, Emo-tional DevelopmentMulti-faceted approaches to the positive development of emotional well-being, social skills and a good relation-ship with themselves are of primary concern to Little Gems Montessori Nursery. Opportunities are provided for daily interaction foster-ing cooperation and empa-thy with their peers and the nurturing of self-esteem, confi dence and independ-ence are given the highest priority. Montessori chil-dren therefore often surprise adults by their kindness to others, their ability to solve day-to-day problems, and their good manners. Re-search also shows that chil-dren from a Montessori envi-ronment are better prepared to enter the mainstream classroom due to their abil-ity to work individually, as well as in groups, having been encouraged to make decisions from an early age; being problem solvers; hav-ing been encouraged to ex-change ideas and discuss their work freely, and; having good communication skills.

24February 26, 2017 • SUNDAY MAIL

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Little Gems: The Montessori approach within a nutshell

Licensed by the Ministry of Education and Culture

[email protected]: 22 351319 & 999 50070 Larnaka: 96 557661

ESSENTIALKNOWLEDGE

ENCOURAGE CURIOSITY

DISCOVERthe difference

The only fully accredited and established Montessori schools in Cyprus

A genuine Montessori nursery

independence and grow

Carola is the owner of Little Gems Montessori Nursery in Nicosia and Larnaca.For further information Tel: 22 351319 or 99 950070, email: [email protected], Website: www.littlegemsmontessori.com

‘Window of opportunity’ for parents to help small children in language and mathsBy John von Radowitz

PRE-school children can be given a fl ying start in language and maths if their parents interact with them correctly, research suggests.Studies show a strong link between gestures, pointing at objects and the ability of very young children to pick up vocabulary, say scientists.Relating numbers to the real world, for instance by count-ing chicken nuggets on a plate, was said to be impor-tant for promoting under-standing of maths.Psychologists attending a major scientifi c meeting in Boston, US spelled out what parents have to do to provide the springboard that will help their children grow up with good language and maths skills.For language, the critical time was around the age of one, before a child had even learned to speak.Dr Meredith Rowe, from Har-vard University, said there was a major gap in language achievement between chil-dren from poorer and better off backgrounds.And the reason more advan-taged children did better could be traced to gestures. When parents backed up their use of words with ges-tures, it helped their children link words to objects.Speaking at the American Association for the Advance-ment of Science (AAAS) annual meeting, Dr Rowe said: “There’s this window of opportunity when children are just getting into their productive communica-tion, 10 months to about 18 months.“I’m talking about the ges-tures you see parents using when interacting with their children, like pointing at things... you might point and say look at the doggy. What that does it gets the child engaged and interacting.“The parents who are ges-turing to more things have children who are gesturing to more things, and that pre-dicts their language ability very strongly later.”A wide range of factors could explain why low income parents were less likely to use gestures, including lack of confi dence, stress and depression, she said.Colleague Dr Liz Gunderson, from Temple University, US found that pre-school inter-action had a similar impact on maths ability.The key here was to help a child refer numbers to objects they could see and touch, either around them or in a book.“If you’re talking about the three chicken nuggets on your plate you can actually see the three chicken nug-gets,” said Dr Gunderson.“If you’re playing hide and seek and counting to 10 that’s not quite as useful.”

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THE American Academy Nicosia is a private English school in the heart of Nicosia. The academy provides Pre-School, Primary and Secondary level education follow-ing the British curriculum. It is a non-for-profi t school; all the fees paid are reinvested in the acad-emy to support teaching, learning and to offer a rich educational ex-

perience for students.Students have the opportunity

to study IGCSE, GCSE and GCE AS and A levels, available through the Cambridge International and Edexcel examination boards. Fo-cusing on a strong academic pro-gramme, students are expected to strive for and achieve excellent results while also developing their full potential in all areas of their lives. Their progress is monitored closely by their teachers through the use of cognitive ability tests early in their educational journey, setting individual targets for each child and developing strategies to ensure that each child is able to maximise their learning and add value to their education.

American Academy Nicosia stu-dents have a high rate of success in their (I)GCSE, AS and A Level examinations each year achieving international awards and recogni-tions. The school is proud of the performance of its students and knows each one is a special indi-vidual, with gifts and talents that require an environment such as that at American Academy Nico-sia to help them unfold their wings and learn to fl y.

Furthermore, as part of the school’s holistic approach to edu-cation, students are encouraged to join a range of after-school clubs ranging from sports activities, creative clubs, languages, drama, environmental, dance, music, Model UN, The Duke of Edinburgh Award DoE and a more. This wide range of additional activities helps

students to fi nd and develop new skills, deepen friendships and en-large their experience.

Graduating students, upon com-pletion of their secondary educa-tion acquire their(I)GCSE and AS/ A Level certifi cates as well as the American Academy Nicosia Apol-ytirion, Certifi cate of Completion of Secondary Education, which is recognised by the Ministry of Edu-cation of Cyprus according to the Private Schools Law of 1971 and its amendments since.

Students gain entry to universi-ties around the world including

the United Kingdom, European countries and the United States, as well as universities in Cyprus. The Apolyterion offers university entry where A levels are not nec-essarily required and it functions as an additional or an alterna-tive qualifi cation to A Levels for a number of universities in the UK, Europe and the US.

At the American Academy Nico-sia, we offer quality education in an environment of care and sup-port in which every child can dis-cover themselves and work to their full potential.

The American Academy Nicosia: quality education within a caring environment

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PASCAL Education is pleased to an-nounce the launch of its new primary

school. It will share the same objectives, vision and determination to pro-vide all pupils, primary and secondary, with an excel-lent academic and social education.

As one of the largest and longest-standing co-edu-cational organisations in Cyprus, Pascal Education comprises fi ve secondary schools, encompassing three English medium and two Greek medium schools. Pascal English Schools offer A levels with Larnaca and Nicosia being accred-ited IB World Schools. All schools also offer English language programmes for international students. Pascal English School Nicosia offers a boarding facility, while all Pascal Schools provide an inte-grated academic and sports programme (Athletic Sec-tion) for elite athletes.

The new primary schoolThe primary school will

lay the foundations for its pupils to eventually be-come responsible global citizens of the future. It is a forward-looking school committed to providing the highest standards of edu-cational achievement for pupils within an environ-ment rich in facilities and educational opportunities. The school will offer a safe, happy and friendly atmos-phere where management, teachers and parents/guardians work together in a spirit of cooperation. Pri-ority places at the second-ary school will be offered to all primary school children and Pascal will ensure a smooth transition from the one to the other.

Primary Year groups Primary Year groups will

consist of:l Reception Class

(Pre-Primary) 4 years and 8 months – 5 years and 7 months

l PY1 (Primary Year One) to PY6 (Primary Year Six)

Top-quality instructorsWhat matters in any

school is strong leadership and well-qualified, com-mitted teachers with high expectations. Therefore, Pascal’s recruitment pro-cess will be highly selective, ensuring it secures the best leaders, teachers and learn-ing support assistants. Pascal Primary School in Nicosia and Larnaca will be housed on the second-ary school campuses, in an area separate from the secondary school pupils. Pascal’s Limassol Primary School will be located at a new campus.

Well-balanced curriculum

The main aim is for all children, including those for whom English is an ad-ditional language, to enjoy a well-balanced curriculum which will develop their in-quiring minds and talents. It will follow a combina-tion of the British Nation-al Curriculum and Cam-bridge Primary. The British National Curriculum has recently been revised and the new programmes of study are now more chal-lenging with higher stand-ards. The Cambridge Pri-mary programme combines a world-class curriculum and integrated assessment. Greek will be taught as a fi rst language to native speakers following the Cy-prus National Curriculum.

Children with little or no Greek will be taught Greek as a Second Language (GSL). Pascal Primary School will celebrate the fact that all children will be learning Greek.

Reception Class (Pre-Primary)

The children will follow the Early Years’ Founda-tion stage of the British Na-tional Curriculum during their fi rst experience of ed-ucation in Reception Class. They will work towards the Early Learning Goals via a structured programme of

rich learning experiences, and thus develop the skills, knowledge and under-standing that will prepare them for Primary Year One.

Primary Years 1-6 (PY1 - PY6)

PY1 - PY6 will follow a combination of the British National Curriculum and Cambridge Primary. The core subjects will be Math-ematics, English, Greek and Science. Foundation subjects include Geogra-phy, History, Environmen-tal Studies, Art and Design, Music, Physical Education,

Design and Technology / Home Economics, ICT and Religious Studies. ICT will be incorporated across the curriculum and pupils will develop wide-ranging com-puter skills as well as be-come digitally literate.

The curriculum will be enriched, whenever pos-sible, by real-life and con-crete experiences for the children, and will be crea-tively planned, vibrant and exciting. Some foundation subjects will incorporate the rich history and geog-raphy of Cyprus.

Children with little or no English-language skills will

be given additional support through intensive English lessons, thereby enabling them to access the curricu-lum as soon as possible.

Caring Environment Pascal Primary School

will provide a caring envi-ronment where individu-ality is celebrated and everyone is respected. By the use of positive rein-forcement and good man-agement it will establish a whole school approach to ensure children feel posi-tive and confi dent about themselves, their abilities, achievements and deci-sion-making power.

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Secure the very best from the start at PASCAL primary schoolAs of September 2017, Pascal will help primary pupils lay the foundations for their future academic and personal success

For more detailed information about all aspects of the Primary School, including policies and curriculum, contact:Nicosia: [email protected] Tel: 22 509000Larnaca: [email protected] Tel: 22 509300Limassol: [email protected] Tel: 22 509400 www.pascal.ac.cy

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28February 26, 2017 • SUNDAY MAIL

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WITHIN the walls of the American Academy Lar-naca, students

explore what makes them unique, learn to embrace their curiosity, take on the risk of dreaming big and the challenge of making a difference in the world

Imagine a school where artists, scholars and ath-letes fi nd a space to explore their individual talents with the nurturing guid-ance of experts. Imagine a community that fosters interdisciplinidary learn-ing that takes as much place in the classroom as it does outside of it. Imagine an intellectual and crea-tive space where every stu-dent has the opportunity to fi nd a niche and call it their own. The American Academy Larnaca is such a school and it has called it-self home to the ambitions of countless students since 1908.

It was founded by those who imagined a school that would rethink the purpose of a secondary education, and it has continued in this tradition by providing stu-dents with an immersive educational experience that encourages autono-mous, lifelong learning. No matter what the area of study, students of all years learn the power of maintaining an inquisitive attitude to learning by col-laborating, debating, ques-tioning and creating in an enviroment that celebrates all forms of achievement.

In the classroom

The most rewarding ed-ucation should do more than teach – it should fa-cilitate a love for learning. At the heart of the school’s success is the passionate teaching body that is com-mitted to the students. From spending extra time after class to discuss con-cepts, to organising out-of-school activities that will reinforce learning, the school’s teachers are com-mitted to making learning personal and meaningful for each indivudual student from the very fi rst day. The school offers a wide range of courses which gives con-siderable freedom to stu-dents to create their own

curriculum at GCSE and A-Level based on what best suits their interests and satisfi es their academic cu-riosity. In the ethos of the school, students are active learners both within sub-ject areas but also beyond,

in the community, reinforc-ing the school’s motto: ‘to grow and to serve’.

Beyond the schoolThere is something for

everyone at the American

Academy Larnaca: be it the aspiring lawyer who par-ticipates in national and international Model Unit-ed Nations; the budding journalist who is covering the news for the school magazine; or the next big computer scientist who is spending his free time designing an application that will give back to the community. The school boasts an extended variety of over 30 extracurricular clubs, which include clubs of international recogni-tion such as the Duke of Edinburgh, alongside less familiar ones such as the Biotechnology Club, the Cooking & Baking Club which caters to young food enthusiasts of any taste, and most recently the TED Ed Club, which allows stu-dents to follow a rigorous schedule set by TED-Ed

headquarters in the USA to deliver speeches to a live audience.

Students also enjoy state-of-the-art sports facilities, including an indoor gym, futsal and tennis courts that cater to the many teams of the school that compete in Cypriot and international competitions with numerous fi rst prize successes.

The school actively par-ticipates in competitions, both locally and globally. Among them: the Junior Achievement Cyprus, the Pancyprian Drama Com-petition and the Tech-nology and Innovation in Education Competition all of which have earned the school top prizes.

You could be thereImagine being a part of

something bigger than yourself. This is the place where you can fl ex and grow, learn and experience, step up and be involved while being supported by fellow students of the high-est calibre, world-class teaching staff and a history of excellence that spans well over a hundred years. This is the place where you get to shape your own educational path, make choices and experience the new and exciting within a secure, supportive and dy-namic environment. This is the place where you will really begin to understand, contribute to and live the inimitable and indefi nable ‘Academy spirit’. This is where it all begins, the mo-ments, the memories, the bonds that last a lifetime. Join the family: Your future starts there.

Dare to dream big at the American Academy Larnaca

At the heart of the school’s success is the passionate

teaching body that is committed to the students

Students learn what it is that makes them unique in a school where there is something for everyone

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The English School: a choice for lifeSecondary education

is a particularly sig-nifi cant stage in the life of a child. The

English School is especially conscious of the fact that it is not just an academic de-cision, but a choice for life. Secondary school educa-tion is indeed far more than spending a few years at-tending classes in English literature or chemistry; it is a fundamental step that will shape your life. Its im-plications will stretch far beyond your school years. It will lay the foundations for the future and will in-fl uence which university you will enter, which career

path you choose and which future success you will ulti-mately experience. Educa-tion prepares you for life, teaching you how to navi-gate the world; but it all depends on which educa-tion you will choose.The English School sup-ports students in reaching their true potential. It helps them access the highest quality tertiary education

and to become global and democratic citizens empow-ered to adopt key leadership roles in their adult lives. This is achieved through a unique formula that has been improved over a num-ber of years that combines excellence, innovation and legacy.

Academic programme and achievementsIn today’s world, competi-tion is fi erce and being able to access the top universi-ties in tertiary education is the key to securing a ful-fi lling career. The English

School’s academic pro-gramme, which follows the model of British independ-ent secondary schools, has proven successful in help-ing students enter coveted Russell Group universities as well other top tertiary institutions all over the world.Students’ achievements are outstanding. Their results at IGCSE and A-

Level are regularly among the very best in the fi eld of international schools and measure up to the top independent schools in the United Kingdom. Most students gain ac-cess to their universities and courses of fi rst choice including Cambridge, Ox-ford and London.

Beyond the classroom: The English School co-curricular activities Co-curricular activities broaden a student’s over-all education and help de-velop team-spirit and self-confi dence. The school has over 70 clubs and societies, many representing the school abroad at various international events with excellent results. For instance, The English School has three times hosted the World Individ-ual Public Speaking and Debating Competition in which students from all over the world compete as well as competing regular-ly in overseas champion-ships in public speaking. Indeed, over the years, the school has been successful in winning a range of cat-egories in public speaking and debate against very the best high school speak-ers. Its Greek Play has twice won First Prize in the Pancyprian Competi-tion for Secondary Schools and has competed in Pan-hellenic Competitions held in Greece with other fi nal-

ist schools. The Comeni-us Language Project has brought together students and staff with those of the Radnotti School in Hun-gary with all reaping the benefi ts of a better under-standing and appreciation of each other’s culture and heritage.The school also boasts a vibrant and innovative Music culture with oppor-tunities for all students to be able to develop their musical talents, whatever they may be. The sheer breadth of op-portunity for students to involve themselves in co-curricular activities or events helps shape well-rounded individuals who are not just successful aca-demically but are also fully developed young people

with rich personal profi les.

The English School new state-of-the art buildingThe English School has a long heritage and has preserved its original fa-cilities while modernis-ing them and bringing from the ground up a new state-of-the art building: the new Newham building. It includes both general and special purpose class-rooms, teachers’ offi ces, a new canteen and student recreational space, exami-nation rooms and covered outdoor spaces, which can be used for various educa-tional as well as leisure ac-tivities.

Looking after each other – pastoral careThe school boasts a strong pastoral programme which creates an environment where all students are ac-tively responsible for their own conduct and develop-ment. This ensures that they are emotionally liter-ate, resilient and able to ef-fectively deal with challeng-ing situations both in their personal life and in their education. The English School believes that promoting the person-al and social development of students is as vital as en-couraging their academic progress. The school offers all the opportunities of a large establishment but each student feels part of a smaller and caring unit.

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31SUNDAY MAIL • February 26, 2017

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“AT THE Grammar School each child is special. The curriculum is formed in such a way that it takes into account the different skills and abilities of each student. At the same time we guide students ac-cording to global developments in areas such as technology, science and culture in order to prepare them for their professional careers,” says Director-General Akis Grego-riou.The Grammar School’s pleasant and friendly environment along with a plethora of activities and school events provide the foundations for an academic, student-oriented, all-round education.ENVIRONMENT Students attend lessons in an idyllic, peaceful and safe environment since the school premises are located outside the city and away from the dangers and temptations which this entails. The school provides a bus service for the safe transportation of children to and from home.EDUCATION/ADVISORS The main objective of The Grammar School is to have a well-organised school community in which children respect their teachers, their peers as well as the environment regardless of the social and economic back-ground of their family. Special advi-

sors educate teachers and students and also undertake cases that need counselling.TEACHERS The Grammar School employs 102 teachers, who have the responsibility not only to teach their subject, but more importantly, to interact with students and assist, where possible in order to resolve any issues that may arise. Their role is to guide students both morally and academically. The average age of Grammar School teachers is 40 and the ratio of teachers to students is 1: 8.4.TECHNOLOGY The Grammar School Nicosia is a Microsoft Show-case School and a pioneer in the use of technology in the classroom as well as Robotics, through the crea-tion of the school’s Innovation Cen-tre. Teacher-student-parent com-munication is facilitated through the use of technology. Students, if absent, are able to watch the lesson

at home through the Offi ce Mix method. Parents also receive imme-diate information about the work of their children through GSNETLIFE.STEM PROGRAMME (Science Technology Engineering Mathemat-ics) The Grammar School is the fi rst school in Cyprus to incorporate STEM into its curriculum. Students who attend STEM programmes are given an important advantage for their admission to universities worldwide. Students wishing to participate in this programme are selected based on their academic performance.CULTURE The Grammar School has staged theatrical performances for decades, which have been awarded in national competitions in Cyprus and Greece. The annual Grammar School Cultural Evening has become a strong tradition. It is attended by hundreds while others watch it through live streaming

on the internet. Part of promoting culture is the organisation of other activities such as the Talent Show, the Music Festival and Literature Workshops. ATHLETIC PROGRAMME This programme started last year in col-laboration with the Arsenal Soccer Schools and it was included from the beginning in the regular school curriculum without affecting the high academic level of students. This is Arsenal’s philosophy on which the cooperation with The Grammar School is based, as well as the association’s high standards in football. It is further noted that in the new academic year the Gram-mar School Athletic Programme will also introduce swimming and bas-ketball to the soccer programme.UNIVERSITY - HIGHER EDU-CATIONAL ADVISORY TEAM Through the large number of courses offered, Grammar School students are able to succeed and excel in the GCE A Level exams and thus enter the best universi-ties in the UK including the ones in the Russell Group. The Higher Educational Advisory Team fre-quently visit universities in the

UK to receive direct information about their academic requirements. Furthermore, there are frequent presentations to Grammar School students by universities, such as Cambridge, LSE, UCL, Imperial Col-lege, King’s College, Nottingham, Manchester, Leeds, Southampton and many others. In the last three years, professors from the Engineer-ing Department of the University of Bath (ranked 3rd in the UK in Engineering subjects) have organ-ised a Robotics Challenge at the Grammar School Innovation Centre for A Level Physics students. 21 Grammar School students have been accepted at the University of Bath in the last three years. From 2014 – 2016, 9 Grammar School students were accepted to study at the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford while 170 entered universities in the Russell Group to study Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering, Business, Arts, Science and many more. It is worth noting that Grammar School students are well equipped for university life, since they have the opportunity to participate in committees, clubs, sports and are socially active and prepared for a dynamic and success-ful future.

For more information about The Grammar School Nicosia visit the school or its website www.grammarschool.ac.cy or contact by phone on 22 695695, [email protected]

The Grammar School Nicosia offers an all-round education

The Falcon School: preparing today’s young people for tomorrow’s worldTHE Falcon School is an English-speaking inde-pendent school for girls and boys, which offers a continuous education from Early Years to university entrance. A Falcon educa-tion takes place in an ac-tive, inquiring, learning environment with facili-ties for languages, the Sci-ences, the Arts, music and a wide range of sports. Fal-con students and teachers are members of a multi-cultural, multi-racial school community which looks to the future, while cherish-ing traditional values. It aims to create criti-cal thinkers and life-long learners, able to adapt and work to-gether, responding to the social and techno-logical challenges of the modern world.

What it offers• Small class sizes in a family environment• Extensive facilities for sports, music, art and pot-tery• Fully equipped science laboratories, classrooms and facilities for academic study• Networked ICT provision and Wi-fi access• Extra-curricular activities for all ages and interests• Structured support for learning and careers advice

High ability – high achievement – high sup-portEach year, Falcon students prove their academic abilities and strengths, earning places at top universities in the UK and the USA, and receiving accolades for their achieve-

ments. Each year brings stu-dents High Achiever Awards in a number of subjects, as well as places at Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, St Andrew’s, Durham, Lough-borough, UCL, Bath, Surrey, Edinburgh, King’s, Notting-ham, Bristol, Manchester and Newcastle among other universities. The school is es-pecially proud that one of its

students was the only under-graduate in the whole of Cy-prus to win a place at Oxford University in 2016. All Falcon students can expect, and re-ceive the very best support with applications to univer-sities, as an integral part of their school experience.The Falcon School aims to extend the scope of students’ learning journey so that it is

not limited to the classroom or even the school grounds. Educational trips around Cyprus and to other coun-tries take students away from their everyday envi-ronment, challenging them to look at themselves with new eyes in new contexts. Recent visits have included trips to the Large Hadron Collider at Cern in Switzer-land, London theatres and universities, Barcelona and Valencia, as well as various other European destina-tions.Some of the most high profi le events of the school year re-

volve around the Euro-pean Youth Parliament and the Model United Nations conferences in which students par-ticipate. These activi-ties, in addition to the Toastmasters public speaking club, encour-age students to think about current events and express their views lucidly and articulately.

It’s not just hard work! Schoolwork and academic achievements are undoubt-edly important at the Fal-con School, but they are not the only things valued. All students are encouraged to develop as well-rounded young people, with interests in a wide range of activities.

Clubs and societies operate every afternoon, at no extra charge, for all age groups from Infants to graduate classes. Each year the school hosts a highly popular stu-dent Talent Show; there is the annual Photographic competition and Art Exhi-bition; students organise a Charity Fashion Show; and there are many social activities, including Christ-mas Parties, days out in the mountains and on the coast, and plenty of other memora-ble events. During the summer vaca-tion, the Falcon Summer School is run, which is popu-lar with children aged fi ve to 13 years old. The fi ve-week summer school course is a fl exible way for children to fi ll the days of the long sum-mer holiday with worthwhile sporting and creative activi-ties. Falcon is always happy to meet prospective students and parents. Please contact [email protected] or telephone 22 424781 to make an appointment to view the School. Find out more about us on our web-site www.falconschool.ac.cy or via its Facebook page.For admission to the Sec-ondary Department in Sep-tember 2017, Entrance ex-ams will take place on March 10. Contact the school now to register.

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32February 26, 2017 • SUNDAY MAIL

PrivateEducation

● KINDERGARTEN (Ages 2 ½ to 5) ● PRIMARY SCHOOL (Ages 5 to 11/12) ● SECONDARY SCHOOL (Ages 11/12 to 18)

ENTRANCE EXAMS

Friday 17th March, 3.00 p.m. &

Saturday 18th March, 9.30 a.m.

SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED TO TOP STUDENTS

100 Aristotelous Savva Avenue, Anavargos, P.O.Box 62018, 8060 Paphos. E-Mail: [email protected] Web Page: www.paphosinternationalschool.com Tel: 26 821700 Fax: 26 942541

REGISTERED WITH THE CYPRUS MINISTRY OF EDUCATION & CULTURE

Going into its 30th year, The Interna�onal School of Paphos (ISOP) has plenty of reasons to celebrate:-

�� Con�nuous growth & implementa�on of innova�ve

ideas & prac�ces. �� Balanced & well-planned curriculum for all ages �� Excellent examina�on results & recogni�on of talent

& academic progress �� Well-structured Pastoral Care & Guidance programme

& individualised a�en�on �� Successful entry of our graduates into pres�gious

universi�es, including Oxford, Cambridge, ETH Zurich �� Scholarship which reward high achievers & mo�vate

students �� Outstanding facili�es & on-going upda�ng of resources �� Commi�ed, knowledgeable, caring staff & successful

leadership �� Educa�on beyond the classroom & learning opportuni�es

through a variety of extra-curricular ac�vi�es �� Strong parent-teacher partnership & community

involvement �� Mul�cultural learning environment & harmonious co-

existence of more than 35 na�onali�es.

Give us the seedling & we will give you the tree!

A visit to The International School of Paphos (ISOP) will provide you with in-depth personalised informa-tion about the philosophy, goals and curriculum of the school. You may meet the staff who will be delighted to discuss and present the state-of-the-art facilities, the comprehensive pro-gramme and the dynamic, multi-faceted education awaiting your child.

The International School of Paphos caters for chil-dren from 2½ (Kindergar-ten) to 18 (A-Levels). In ad-dition to Cypriot students, it accepts students from all over the world.

National & international recognition

The International School of Paphos is recognised both nationally and in-ternationally. It is regis-tered with and regularly inspected by the Cyprus Ministry of Education. It is also an approved centre for two of the largest UK examination boards, CIE (Cambridge International Examinations) and Edex-cel. In addition to IGCSE, AS and A Level qualifi ca-

tions, which refl ect a glob-ally established standard of education, the school’s graduates receive a School-Leaving Certifi cate (Apolytirion) that is recog-nised in Cyprus, the United Kingdom and across Eu-rope. The school is also a centre for the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL), recognised by the Cyprus Computer Socie-ties, as well as for LAMDA (Drama and Public Speak-ing examinations).

CareersThe school’s Careers De-

partment advises Second-ary School students about access to higher education, professional training and the world of work. This in-cludes applications to Brit-ish universities (through UCAS), as well as univer-sities in other European countries, the USA (via the Fulbright Commis-sion) and other parts of the world. The careers ad-visers also aim to promote the personal development of pupils and enhance their research skills. Graduates of ISOP study at prestig-ious universities, mainly in Britain, such as the Lon-

don School of Economics, Oxford University, Univer-sity of Cambridge, Univer-sity College London, Man-chester, Glasgow, as well as universities in Cyprus, Ger-many, the USA, Canada, Australia, Russia, Dubai and Switzerland.

AchievementsISOP students frequent-

ly win prestigious awards from Cambridge Interna-tional Examinations (CIE), proving their academic excellence. In the last two years our pupils received High Achievement Awards in IGCSE Art & Design, Dutch, Greek, German, Physical Education as well as AS-Level History, AS and A-Level Economics.

Departments

The International School of Paphos caters for chil-dren at Kindergarten, Pri-mary and Secondary lev-els. The school curriculum, though modelled on the English National Curricu-lum, is enhanced to meet the requirements of the Cyprus Ministry of Educa-tion and those of its mul-ticultural student body.

Through IGCSE exami-nations, AS and A Levels and its recognised School Leaving Certifi cate (Apo-lytirion), which is award-ed to graduates of ISOP, students are afforded the skills and qualifi cations they need for their future academic and professional careers. The school also of-fers afternoon lessons at its Private Institute.

Facilities

The current, state-of-art facilities were purpose built in 2006. They were de-signed and constructed by Aristo Developers.

The goal was to have a comfortable, safe, acces-sible and aesthetically pleasing building with well-resourced, specialised teaching and recreation ar-eas including: � Purpose-built Kinder-garten complex� Well-lit and spacious classrooms with air condi-tioning and central heat-ing, computers, projectors and interactive white boards� Three computer suites� Five science laboratories� Multi-purpose sports hall and performance

centre� Indoor heated swim-ming pool with facilities for spectators� Astroturf football pitch, running track and athlet-ics facilities with provision for spectators � Outdoor basketball, vol-leyball and tennis courts� Spacious art facility with internal gallery� Well-equipped music room� Media room for presen-tations and screenings� Multi-purpose room for physical and creative activities� Drama Studio and Theatre

� Covered and open play area for all age groups� Elevators and ramps providing wheel-chair ac-cess� Library and bookshop� Cafeteria� Sick bay

For further information, visit www.phosinternationalschool.com100 Aristotelous Savva Avenue, Anavargos, PO Box 62018, 8060 Paphos, Tel: 26 821700, Fax: 26 942541, email: [email protected]

The International School of Paphos: leading the way in education since 19871987