Gharaffa Buzz | Monday 17 December

Dear Parents,

Gharaffa was a sea of white and maroon on Thursday, 13 December with a wonderful start to our Qatar National Day celebrations.

The day began with an Arabic breakfast in the classroom.  Following this, the children were entertained by traditional performing arts, Al Razeef.  Assembly was organised by our wonderful Arabic Department, led by Mrs. Enaam.  Children showcased their Arabic dance techniques, we heard a beautiful recital from the Holy Qu’ran.  The assembly performances were cleverly linked with narrative explanations from our two narrators, one speaking in Arabic the other translating into English.  In class, children learned about the State of Qatar and celebrated the skills of local people who demonstrated their skills in carpentry and weaving.  Face painting and food freshly cooked on the field were also enjoyed by all the children on this wonderful day. 

Last week’s students’ Blanket Sale was another great success.  Children purchased an area in advance where they could lay out their blanket and sell secondhand items. On the day, the children brought in a great selection of toys, books, games and DVDs.  One family set up a stall selling juice and pastries, clothes and hair accessories.  We certainly have many young entrepeneurs at Gharaffa.  Before selling, we discussed marketing techniques and how to price items to sell.  The students had many great ideas.  At 1.20pm, we opened our doors to parents and children who excitedly purchased items or services.  We hope the children enjoyed this opportunity.

Also on Tuesday, the Friends of Compass School (FCS) Team hosted this month’s coffee morning in the playground pergola.  Thank you, once again, to our hard working and dedicated team of parents who continue to enhance the children’s school experience.  We look forward to working with you once again in the New Year.

Today, the school hosted our last assembly of 2018.  Music was the theme of today’s assembly.  Our talented musicians showcased their skills on a range of musical instruments.  All children played confidently and evidently enjoyed the opportunity to share their achievements with the whole school.  Well done to all the children who took part.

Thank you to all families who donated items for the maintenance and security team hampers.  Our FCS Team boxed the items up on Thursday.  These items will be presented to our team at a special lunch organised by the staff on Sunday.  Thank you to our Friends of Compass School Team.

If you haven't filled it out already, I encourage you to complete our Parent Survey at this link. 

http://parentsurvey.nordanglia.com/survey/selfserve/5a0/181000=Nord%20Anglia,Parents&wave=y2019

It should only take 15 minutes to complete and as we are constantly looking for ways to improve our school, your feedback is vital to this process.

There were a few tears today as we said goodbye to Helen Stevenson, School Secretary.  Helen will be retiring and relocating to her home in Scotland.  We wish Helen all the best for the future and thank her from our hearts for being a truly dedicated member of the Compass Team.  

I would like to end today’s newsletter by thanking all our families for continuing to offer their support.  We hope that you all enjoy Qatar National Day celebrations tomorrow.

Have a very happy Qatar National Day.

Karen Wilson
Head of Gharaffa Campus