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IMPORTANT STONEHILL UPDATES - 1

PRIMARY SCHOOL NEWS - 4

SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWS - 7

BOARDING SCHOOL NEWS - 13 SPORTS NEWS - 14

INTERNATIONAL FOOD FAIR - 15

VOL 6 ISSUE 2 APRIL 2015

Message from GC & New Head of School

With the appointment of Dr. Beverly Sortland as the new Head of School, we look forward to an exciting phase of growth at Stonehill. Dr. Sortland takes over in August 2015 at the start of the new academic year and we believe that she can provide the school with the leadership, energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to vision that it deserves. We believe her IB curricular expertise, skill in strategic planning and building projects, focus on best educational practice and her leadership style and interpersonal skills, will benefit Stonehill International School. She also brings with her over 15 years of experience in International schools abroad and her experience in all three IB programmes as a teacher and curriculum coordinator will be invaluable to us. Dr. Sortland’s knowledge that comes from her study - Strategies for the Successful Acculturation of Expatriate Teachers in International Schools, as part of her doctorate, will also be of immense value to our school. The GC sees in her, a dynamic and practical leader who can bring about positive change. By leveraging the experience of the Educational Leadership Team and the Business Manager, we are confident that Dr. Beverly Sortland will take Stonehill International School to new heights.

Vikram Shah, Chair Governing Council

(On behalf of the GC)

I am delighted to be the incoming Head of School at Stonehill in August 2015. I’m very much looking forward to arriving in Bengaluru and getting to know everyone and I’d like to take this opportunity to tell you a little about myself. I’m currently the Director of the American School of Douala in Cameroon. I’ve been a professional educator for 25 years, including 18 years of experience in international schools. I hold Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, as well as teaching credentials, in music, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Management. I’ve worked at the preschool, elementary, middle and high school levels as a teacher, curriculum coordinator and administrator in Cameroon, Zambia, Germany, France, England and the U.S.A. I hold dual nationalities, U.S.A./U.K., and my husband Philippe is French. A particular area of interest of mine is, the process expatriate teachers in international schools go through to successfully acculturate to their new host countries. Internationalism and acculturation is an integral part of my own life and I will be working with the entire staff at Stonehill, in an attempt to ensure that this is a positive process for all our teachers. Teachers who acculturate more successfully tend to stay longer and teachers who stay longer are good for kids!

My vision for Stonehill is simple: To ensure that it is the very best place to learn, to live and to work. Whether for Diploma Programme students preparing for top universities through a wide variety of IB courses taught by experienced, highly qualified and successful teachers; for Middle Years Programme students creating and shaping their own futures through the research, discipline and academic excellence required of the MYP projects; for Primary Years Programme students experiencing the thrill of inquiry and the rewards of personal motivation; for boarding students taking full advantage of Stonehill’s 24/7 school environment possibilities through extra tutoring, sports, after-school activities and networking; or for teachers and staff, finding Stonehill the most stimulating, supportive and rewarding place to teach—my vision is to ensure that Stonehill is the best it can be.

With best regards, Dr. Beverly Sortland

New Scholarship Award Programme

In November 2014 Stonehill launched an exciting new scholarship award programme, with the aim of fostering and celebrating academic excellence. Under the programme, scholarships are awarded to candidates who demonstrate outstanding academic ability, based on aptitude and potential. The scholarships are available for students entering the MYP in M4 & M5 (Grades 9 &10) and the DP in D1 (Grade 11). They provide for a full or significant discount in the tuition fee, along with a discount of up to 50% of the boarding fee. Following a rigorous selection process involving open competition, the scholarships are awarded at the discretion of the Head of School. The number of scholarships may vary from year to year depending upon the calibre of candidates who apply.

The academic progress of all scholarship recipients will be monitored closely to ensure that attainment and commitment are being maintained at the standard expected of an academic scholar. A Stonehill Scholarship is a prestigious award and unashamedly targets the very best scholars. This scholarship is of significant benefit to a student, as it offers a stepping stone to an excellent university.

We are delighted to report that the school received a strong field of candidates for scholarships starting in August 2015. Following a rigorous selection process, four scholarships have been offered to students entering the MYP and five to students entering D1. We are also very pleased to report that two of the scholarships were awarded to current students at the school. We look forward to celebrating the success of our scholars over the coming years.

Alan Connah Interim Head of School

IBDP Workshop – February 2015 Stonehill was honoured to host the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) Workshops from Friday, 6th February to Sunday, 8th February, 2015 at the school. The event saw the participation of over 180 people which included 166 teachers, educators, 12 workshop leaders and representatives from Texas Instruments, Sun Tours and the IBO. While the majority of participants were from India, there were a sizable number from the Asia-Pacific region.

The Workshops started with an Opening Ceremony on Friday morning with welcoming speeches from Mr. Stuart Jones, Head of Professional Development, IB Asia-Pacific, Mr. Narendra Mehrotra, Head of Curriculum, Stonehill International School and Mr. Alan Connah, Interim Head of School & Secondary School Principal, Stonehill International School. The aura of camaraderie and enthusiasm was palpable in the air as the participants split-up into smaller groups for their chosen workshop sessions with their workshop leaders

Stuart Jones, Head of Professional Development, Asia-Pacific, International Baccalaureate Organisation, said “We, the IB, are delighted to be at Stonehill. We believe that if we are going to have an impact on students, the teachers working with students are the most powerful force. We want schools to invest in teachers. We feel that a teacher’s learning is a life-long process that is continually assessed and enriched. This type of learning is only possible through workshops like these, which are specifically designed to cater to teachers of varying calibres of experience”. Narendra Mehrotra, Head of Curriculum, Stonehill International School, said “Approaches to learning skills provide a solid foundation for learning independently and collaboratively. The workshops provide teachers with the knowledge and skills to facilitate learning experiences in the classrooms, where our students are meaningfully engaged in inquiry and greater creative and critical thinking”.

Commenting on the event, Alan Connah, Head of School, Stonehill International School, said “It was a great opportunity to meet with fellow teachers and educators and to explore new initiatives within the IB Diploma Programme network.”

The Category 1 and 2 workshops were held in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, (Higher and Standard level), Career Counselling and University Recognition. Prior to the workshops there were many network meetings at various schools in Bangalore where presentations were made by Mr Steve Wishart (Primary Years Programme-IB Singapore), Ms Avalokita Nanda (Diploma Programme-IB Singapore) and Ms Priyamvada Taneja (India Development Manager). They covered an overview of the IB and its initiatives, Asia-Pacific regional updates, IB programme reviews, university recognition, development updates, discussions and various network meetings. The IBDP Workshops are a great forum for teachers and educators to collaborate and expand their methodologies and teaching ideologies

The workshops were a huge success and the participants, workshop leaders and the IB staff were all very appreciative of the venue, logistics, IT, cafeteria, food, housekeeping and transportation. The dedication and commitment demonstrated by all support staff and teams was outstanding. Several comments focused on: the outstanding arrangements, warmth and support of the staff, hospitality, facilities, willingness to help, experiential learning experience and attention to detail. I would like to thank IB Asia-Pacific for giving us this opportunity after the successful conduct of IB MYP Subject Specific Seminar workshops in April, 2014 at Stonehill.

Narendra Mehrotra Head of Curriculum

Student Portfolios in the Primary School

The PYP Exhibition represents a significant event in the life of a PYP school and student, synthesising the essential elements of the PYP and sharing them with the whole school community. As a culminating experience it is an opportunity for students to exhibit the attributes of the IB learner profile that have been developing throughout their engagement with the PYP. Students are required to engage in a collaborative, trans-disciplinary inquiry process that involves them in identifying, investigating and offering solutions to real-life issues or problems. The organising theme for our PYP Exhibition this year is 'Sharing the Planet'. We are focusing on communities and the relationships within and between them. We are also focusing on access to equal opportunities. You can see the subjects that the students have chosen to focus on this year in the word cloud below. This year the PYP Exhibition students will also be publishing a weekly blog to chart their progress and share their learning.

You can follow the P8 Exhibition by visiting the Blog (www.stonehillpypx.blogspot.com)

The purpose of the PYP Exhibition is: • for students to engage in an in-depth, collaborative inquiry • to provide students an opportunity to demonstrate independence and responsibility for their own learning • to provide students with an opportunity to explore multiple perspectives • for students to synthesise and apply learning of previous years and to reflect upon their journey through the

PYP • to provide an authentic process for assessing student understanding • to demonstrate how students can take action as a result of their learning • to unite the students, teachers, parents and other members of the school community in a collaborative

experience that incorporates the essential elements of the PYP • to celebrate the transition of learners in the primary to middle/secondary education

The PYP Exhibition takes place on Thursday 16th April. We hope that you can join us to hear some remarkable students talk about their projects. You can follow the learning on Twitter with the hashtag #sispypx

Simon McCloskey Primary Principal

P6 Students Support Government School

In September 2014 P6 students were involved in a unit called “How We Organise Ourselves.” Ms. Lamiya Bharmal, Primary Librarian and Information Literacy Teacher, took them to the Stonehill Government School to examine the library and how its system works. P6 students were quite surprised to see many empty shelves where books should have been. This moved them so much that they decided to take action. During the reflection after their visit, with the assistance of their teachers Ms. Geetha Ashok and Mr. Alan Appleby, many of them came up with some strategies on how they could help. Luckily, the students were able to find the NGO, Kitab Korner that could assist them with their project. Kitab Korner sets up libraries in local Indian schools just like the Stonehill Government School. Ms. Evelyn Kelton, Head of Music, Stonehill International School says, “When Sunitha Kunzru and I met and she told me about Kitab Korner and their GROW Through Reading Programme, I knew we had to work together at the Stonehill Government School! Sunitha’s comprehensive and detailed plan of her vision of developing the library was put in to action.” In January 2015, the students organised, planned, and ran a fundraiser by themselves, where they sold a variety of items including homemade food, crafts, used books and toys. Their goal was to raise 25,000 rupees for the purchase of new books; however, they surpassed their own expectations by raising a total of 27,000 rupees! When asked what the challenges faced by them in organising the fundraiser were, students had this to say – "It was hard to carry everything." - Mona "It was hard to bring the cake to school." - Rebecca "Nobody bought my expensive necklace made on the Rainbow Loom." - Nanasa "It was difficult to make the brownies and to make prices for all the stuff." - Hridaya "I thought counting change was a little difficult." – Nisha The money raised allowed them to purchase 159 books for 20,000 rupees, with the remaining 7,000 used to procure mats, chairs, and charts for the library. They also purchased large rolls of plastic which they, along with the government school students, used to cover each and every book to keep them protected. As a part of the project work involved budgeting, students were able to cut costs by covering the books themselves.

When students were asked why they wanted to help the Government School and what they would like to tell the students at the Government School, they said –

"Because they can get better at reading and better at everything." - Hridaya "Because I like to help other people who need help." - Nisha "I hope they learn to read like us." - Rebecca "Do your best." - Nanasa "I would tell them to learn more and more!" - Hridaya "Have fun with the things we gave you!" – Mona The library was inaugurated on 10th April by Mr. Jitu Virwani and included speeches by the Headmaster of the School, P6 students, D2 students, Ms. Sunitha Kunzru and Ms. Evelyn Kelton. There are plans to start a buddy reading programme that the P6 students are eager to be a part of!

Elizabeth Eckel

EAL Teacher

Secondary School Trips Week

Trekking in the Himalayas The original itinerary for the M4 to D1 Himalayan Trekking expedition promised to provide students with a genuine mountaineering experience. It was to be an immersive adventure, complete with camping in the wilderness, rugged trekking and challenging climbs through some of the most spectacular scenery the Indian subcontinent has to offer.

After two full days of air and road travel, the group arrived at a small hostel in the Sankri district of Uttarakhand. With a stunning view of the distant mountain peaks, standing watch over a dramatic landscape peppered with rocky outcrops and defiant rhododendrons, we prepared for the difficult task ahead. A day was spent just above the snow line, where students learnt necessary skills for survival in this awe-inspiring wilderness.

Sadly, however, the morning of our departure brought unfavourable weather conditions. After reviewing the local weather report, which revealed severe storms for the coming days, we made the reluctant decision to cancel the overland trek. As heavy rains fell from above, we pondered alternate ideas, locations and activities. The group descended to a secluded campsite by the Tons River, just south of Mori (a small village in the Himalayan foothills). Students worked in teams to set up tents, prepare food and collect firewood. While disappointment over the weather was difficult to shake, the group found a sense of comraderie and purpose in this new task and spirits soon lifted as we settled into our temporary home.

The following three days were spent trekking to the tops of neighbouring peaks, navigating river courses and learning about survival in the outdoors. In the evenings we sat around the campfire, telling jokes and feasting on rustic bush cooking. On one or two occasions, some of the students even found the fortitude to bathe in the Tons’ glacial waters.

. As we rose on the final day, the heavens opened once again and our pack-up and departure were slowed by the unceasing rains. But, as pegs were pulled from the earth and equipment was hauled through the mud, each student seemed to wear a little smile. We may not have climbed the mountain that we set out to conquer, but we had pulled together as a group to overcome setbacks, endure difficult conditions and despite the struggles, we had had a lot of fun. On the bus back to Mussoorie, the atmosphere was one of quiet, blissfully exhausted satisfaction.

Benjamin Woods Trip Leader

Hiking and Rafting in the Himalaya

A group of sixteen M4 – D1 students travelled to the Ganga Valley for a memorable trip; they were accompanied by Ms Alison, Mr Kirk and Mr Edmund. The students were excited for weeks before, as the trip approached. Boots had to be properly broken in, they had to ensure that they were not packing too much or too little for the trip and they needed to ensure that they were well prepared for the challenges that they would have to face. With these, and several other checks, the group boarded the bus nervously at 5:00 am on the day of departure, for Rishikesh. Upon arriving, the students spent two days participating in team-building activities like small hikes, safety presentations and a ropes course to prepare for the trip ahead; after which they were ready to start hiking!

The first day of hiking was a long one with gentle slopes and ended in a beautiful campsite by the river. The second day was a an intensive climb that was made of steep, uphill inclines. While the muscle aches only lasted a few days, the realisation that they could overcome great challenges was a lesson that the students will carry with them, throughout their lives. The last and final day of hiking was a gradual downhill trail with spectacular views. After three long days of hiking, the students were ready to get onto the water.

Rafting was the perfect culminating activity for this exciting trip. The water was cold but that didn't stop the wetsuit-clad students from taking a dip. In order to stay warm, the group had to ensure that the time they spent in the water had to match the hours of sunlight. The students were allowed to do all the water-based activities between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm, after which the sun would start to dip below the mountains that the Ganga flows through, as it makes its way from Uttarakhand to the Bay of Bengal. On our last and final day of rafting we were met with dark clouds that eventually brought rain, but since most of us were already wet, no one seemed to mind. The trip was successful and the students left happy, with a few more memories and many new friends.

Alison Smith Trip Leader

M3 Jaipur Trip During Trips Week, the M3 students went to Jaipur, Rajasthan, with Mr and Mrs Orlando, Mr Esiyok and Ms Preethi. On the first day we visited Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where there are several sundials including a massive one that was built about 300 years ago and is accurate to within 2 seconds. There are also special instruments to figure out the positioning of the stars and to determine a newborn’s astrological sign. From Jantar Mantar we walked to the Hawa Maha, a building with natural ventilation where the noble ladies could watch the city without being seen themselves. We also visited City Palace and saw some beautiful rooms and garments. On the same day, we spent a wonderful afternoon at Elefantastic where we ate a traditional Indian lunch, cuddled elephants, rode them, painted them and gave them a shower. Students described Elefantastic as “amazing”.

The next day, we biked off-road through traditional villages to the Samode Palace, where we had a really fancy lunch and a quick tour. Students described the cycling as “long, tiring, but the frequent breaks made it bearable” and “it gave us a chance to see village life”. That night, we went to Chowki Dhani, a traditional fair and restaurant where we went for camel rides, shopping, played giant snakes and ladders, watched fire shows and did many more super exciting things.

The following day we visited the Jaigarh Fort for some fantastic views and then the Amber Fort, which was really amazing. The fort is like a giant maze of different paths, staircases and rooms; it was so confusing. Next, we visited the Anokhi Museum where an old man who has spent his life carving wooden blocks for printing, showed us how it is done. After lunch at Samode Haveli, we went to a block-printing workshop and did our own printing by putting carved blocks of wood into paint and then pressing it onto our individual pieces of cloth. Students described the block printing as “difficult but fun”.

The following day we visited the Jaigarh Fort for some fantastic views and then the Amber Fort, which was really amazing. The fort is like a giant maze of different paths, staircases and rooms; it was so confusing. Next, we visited the Anokhi Museum where an old man who has spent his life carving wooden blocks for printing, showed us how it is done. After lunch at Samode Haveli, we went to a block-printing workshop and did our own printing by putting carved blocks of wood into paint and then pressing it onto our individual pieces of cloth. Students described the block printing as “difficult but fun”. On the last day, we went to a pottery workshop where we learnt how Jaipur’s famous beautiful blue pottery is made. We got to design and paint our own pots. A student commented “it makes you realise how much time and effort goes into making just one little pot”. Overall, students said the trip was “really good”, “the food was a new experience, sometimes” and “it was the best trip we’ve been on at Stonehill”.

Mathilde M3

Vellatur Orphanage Trip

Twelve students from M4, M5 and D1 went to the Vellatur Orphanage in Vijaywada during Trips Week; this orphanage is run by ARC (Affecting Real Change). They worked on painting new furniture, painting walls and working with the children at the orphanage. There were opportunities for group, as well as individual initiatives. Here are what students have to say about the trip.

The orphanage trip really made us feel grateful for what we have and motivated us to do more charity work. This was one of the best experiences we have had and I will never forget it. Every moment was special and something to be cherished forever. From the moment we stepped off the plane, to the moment we got back to Bangalore, we were filled with so many different emotions. All of us became close to a few kids who we will never forget. The trip was filled with smiles and tears. We hope to go back as soon as we can. When we were asked to give critical feedback we all felt there was none. We were fine with sleeping on the floor and having one shower for all of us. We would have loved spending more time with the kids as well as eating with them. It makes you be grateful for what you have. We all enjoyed our trip and I hope Stonehill goes back every year. Savannah, M5

For me, the trip was something very special and an experience I will always remember. I loved meeting the children and the people working there. They were all so welcoming and nice; they really touched me and have a special place in my thoughts. This trip and these people will stay in my heart forever. Ellen, M5

Evelyn Kelton CAS Coordinator

Secondary School Talent Show – 2015

Stonehill’s Got Talent – 2015

On Thursday, 26th February, parents, teachers and students gathered to witness the third annual Stonehill's Got Talent show. We witnessed unbelievable talent that has never before been presented at Stonehill. Students leapt and skipped across the stage to fun upbeat music, sang their hearts

out, rapped so fast everyone was bouncing along and banged on the drums with such gusto, the floor shook. All of the acts were incredible and students should be extremely proud of their achievements.

However, in the end there could only be three winners. Congratulations to the Little Mix cover group, Neha, Matilde, Carolina and Janae, that performed "Wings" for taking First Place! In Second Place was Srija, with a traditional Bharatanatyam performance and in Third Place we had an awesome Hip-Hop dance group with Abhishek, Ako, Kokona and Lucas!

Congratulations again to all of the contestants, we hope that the talent we saw this year can be continued, but it will be very difficult to top.

Jessica D2

Boarding News

A Look at Boarding Life in Stonehill International School

It has now been more than a month since the boys left what is called the “Green Boarding House” to take up residence in the Boys’ Boarding House – commonly called “Yellow House”. This was a necessary move but the dynamics of each house have now changed, understandably. The girls waved the boys goodbye with pretend tears and laughter. While they now live in separate spaces, during study and supper there is a chance

for the boys and girls to mix, share conversations and assist each other with study issues. In between school and formal study, throwing a Frisbee has been popular, along with kicking the football around on the playing fields and other activities. The girls and boys enjoy excellent and positive relationships – a family of multiple siblings!

A popular gathering place is the central common space known as the “Purple Room”, or sitting at the benches situated on the verandahs. On the beautiful nights in Bangalore of late, students can be seen studying together outside. The students also take advantage of the grass areas in the courtyard to sit, relax and chat

The atmosphere of both Boarding Houses remains relaxed and welcoming, yet there is a formality and discipline that comes with study times. Students use study hours well and also opt to retire to bed at the designated times without any fuss, realising the need for rest in readiness for the next day. With few and rare exceptions, our boarders rise easily and leave for breakfast and school on time.

It has been fun to witness “snake” or “caterpillar” races

by the girls in their sleeping bags (in readiness for Trips Week) trying to wriggle down the corridors. This crazy activity showed the collegiality across year levels and the fun that groups of young people can create in down-times, together. Occasionally we indulge in Magnum ice-creams and outings to a Barista for snacks. These are the times that help to bind the boarders together as a special and unique group.

The beauty of boarding is that it is similar all around the world. It is reassuring for Robin and I to have “normal” conversations with students about tidiness of rooms, keeping the common rooms clean and wiping their feet before entering the house. More importantly it is wonderful to have the conversations that lead to great laughter and also be available for the times when boarders ‘just need to talk’. So far, we have small but very happy boarding cohorts who love their home away from home.

John Bussenschutt Head of Boarding

Stonehill Sports Update Since Christmas, Stonehill students have been busy and involved in a variety of tournaments and matches with some excellent results from our teams. Within the school, we have held our Early Years, P4 – P8 and Secondary School Sports Days, where the students were able to demonstrate their skills in a variety of games and races. We are all set for the P4 – P8 Primary Swim Gala which will be held on Wednesday, 25th March.

Student teams have also been out representing the school at a variety of events around Bangalore. They have brought home trophies from football tournaments at the Bangalore Youth Football League Tournament and from the TRIO School Tournament. Older students just recently participated in the ISACI (International Schools Activity Conference, India) Tournaments in Delhi and Hyderabad. The Girls Team secured Second Place in the Basketball Tournament in Delhi, while the Boys Team played a spectacular and determined game to win the Football Tournament in Hyderabad.

Adrian Shepherd Head of Physical Education

Stonehill International School celebrate its diversity each year with an International Food Fair. This annual event is attended by members of the PTA, students and teachers from over 30 different nationalities.

Stonehill International School’s International Food Fair was aimed at encouraging unity within diversity, which reiterates the school’s objective of embracing different cultures. At the Food Fair, parents showcased international cuisine and exciting games from 15 different countries.

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International Food Fair – 2015

This year, a Peace Run was organised. A lit torch was passed from children of one nationality to another. There was a live music band along with fun activities for everyone. All proceeds from the Food Fair went towards charities supported by the PTA.

Alan Connah, Interim Head of School, Stonehill International School, said “We are thrilled to witness the participation of students and members of PTA in creating all of the wonderful food from each country and showcasing interesting games associated with many cultures. They take great pride in their heritage and love for cooking, which was displayed through their food stalls. Our aim of building a cross-cultural collaboration among our students and creating new traditional opportunities in the realm of our student community was successful”.

Stonehill’s International Food Fair 2015 was a huge success that left families looking forward to more such events in the future.