High School Principal, Frederic Bordaguibel-Labayle, sets out his plans.
Tell us about your plans for a house system.
We are currently working on the launch of a house system to create more opportunities for High School students to get more involved and take ownership of their High School experience. We are basing this on the success of the house system from November and we are implementing a permanent structure with four houses with internal student leadership opportunities, supported by advisors and heads of houses.
Additionally, we are developing the role of the advisor as a key educator who knows and supports each child through academic and community goal setting, data-driven and holistic follow-ups and overall connection to manoeuvre though the High School journey.
We are also reinforcing the importance of service learning and how we want all our High School students to have a meaningful commitment to care about others and to become better people.
What challenges are you hoping to overcome by the plans you are putting in place?
The reality of the last two years has put a toll on everyone: students, parents and staff. By providing more personalised support and encouraging students to own even more of their High School experience, we believe that we are providing the tools for students to adapt to an even faster changing world as well as getting students academically ready through our three pathways (AP, IB and High School Diploma)
What are you particularly proud of over recent months in the High School?
As I visit classes everyday, I have the privilege of observing great learning happening. Our faculty has adapted to the new reality and are designing a fantastic experience for our students in class, and at times, behind a screen, and even at times through a robot-like device as hybrid learning is still on.
What is more, even though this year is my second as part of the community, I have seen new aspects of our community working together.
This first semester, we have been able to continue to learn outside the classroom with residential and field trips, Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, live concerts, sport and competitions. The school has been buzzing with activities in the respect of the health and safety rules.
Where do you see the High School this time next year?
In one year, we shall have a High School driven by the house system, providing new leadership opportunities for students to shape our community. We will be committed to be present and work together to support one another to aim high and do our best and to get involved in our community to make a difference.
We will be in the process of adapting our learning spaces to the new needs for all of students including using the STEM Centre to its maximum.
