It’s been a fantastic year in Primary at BISP. The most visible improvement has undoubtedly been our introduction of Jigsaw, a wellbeing program that runs right through the Primary section from Early Years to Year 6, providing us with a common spine and consistent approach to this subject. This has complemented the focus on our primary virtues of Respect and Kindness, which are becoming ever-more embedded. It is gratifying to hear other departments commenting on the observable benefits of this program.

Our whole-staff professional development has built on previous work on the teaching of writing to move on to the teaching of reading. The focus has been on developing the ‘balanced reader’, with due attention being given to decoding, comprehension and fluency & phrasing. Teachers are already seeing the benefits of this. We have also started looking at Mathematics, with staff having been to China to learn more about the Shanghai Maths Project. We have had staff presenting at conferences on our Professional Learning Model and regarding our library.

It is difficult to pick highlights of the year, but these must include the Year 1-3 performance of “Animal Rumble Grumble” and the Year 4-6 performance of “Aladdin”. The sports days and swimming galas were notable not only for the tremendous ability of our children but also for the sportsmanship on display, whilst primary teams achieved tremendous success in the annual Soccer 7s tournament.

As is always the case in an international school, we have had new staff join us. They have been, without exception, positive additions to our team. Once more this year we will say goodbye to a number of staff and children, to whom we wish every happiness and success, and look forward to the arrival of new colleagues and students in August.

It is a joy to work in a school with such positive and supportive colleagues, and such cheerful, friendly and hard-working children. Have a great holiday, everyone; here’s to further success in the 2019-2020 academic year!