ST. MARK'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL eNewsletter

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON THE LAST DAY OF SCHOOL- THURSDAY, 8 JUNE

We would like to inform parents and guardians that the last day of school for this semester will be on Thursday, 8 June. Below is some important information pertaining to our arrangement for this date:

All students will be required to wear their regular school uniform to school on that day.
Pre-Prep, Prep and Primary students will have an activity day, where end-of- year class parties will be a part of this fun activity. Activities will be running from 8 am to 11:30 pm, where students will be provided with lunch at school We would appreciate it if all students can be picked up before or by 12.00 pm so that our Pre-Prep, Prep and Primary 1-6 teachers will have time to prepare for the afternoon Parent-Teacher Conference.
Secondary students will have their regular classes from 8 am to 3.10 pm. Students in the Early Years/Primary who have an older sibling studying in the Secondary section will be allowed to remain in school until the older sibling has finished their class.
On Thursday, 8 June, there will be an earlier Parent-Teacher Conference session for Pre-Prep, Prep and Primary parents only and it will be from 1:00 pm to 4:30 This session will be for parents who have registered in the Early Parent Teacher Conference registration form. Other parents will have their Parent-Teacher Conference as usual on Friday, 9 June from 8.00 am to 12.00 pm.

This marks the end of our academic year, and the first day of school for the new academic year will start on Monday, the 7th of August.

CAMBRIDGE ASSESSMENT INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION SCHOOL INSPECTION

We are delighted to share with you the excellent news that St. Mark's International School has successfully completed the Cambridge Assessment International Education school inspection. The inspection, which took place on Wednesday, 7 June, was led by Mr. Daryl Khong, Senior Country Manager of Cambridge Assessment International Education.

During the inspection, St. Mark's had the valuable opportunity to present our school vision and showcase our students' remarkable achievements in previous Cambridge exams - the IGCSE. We are proud to announce that Cambridge was thoroughly impressed with the quality of our teaching personnel and the credentials they possess. Our dedicated teachers had the chance to engage with the Cambridge representatives, who were impressed with their expertise and commitment to providing an exceptional education to our students.

We are thrilled to inform you that throughout the inspection process, Cambridge has expressed their utmost satisfaction with our school's performance. As a result, we have received their official approval to become a Cambridge school and examination center. This accreditation is a testament to the high standards of education and the continuous efforts of our teachers and staff to nurture our students' academic growth.

Furthermore, we are pleased to announce that starting from October 2023, St. Mark's will administer the first set of Cambridge IGCSE exams on our campus. This milestone marks an exciting new chapter for our school and reaffirms our commitment to providing a well-rounded education that prepares our students for their future endeavors.

We would like to express our gratitude to our dedicated teaching faculty, supportive parents, and hardworking students for their unwavering commitment and effort. It is through their combined contributions that we have achieved this prestigious recognition.

We will continue to work diligently to maintain the high standards set by Cambridge Assessment International Education and strive for excellence in all aspects of our educational programs. We are confident that our students will flourish in the Cambridge curriculum and reap the benefits of this internationally recognised qualification.

ATAR SUBJECT SELECTION INFORMATION SESSION

We are writing to inform you about an upcoming important event that will greatly impact the academic journey and future career prospects of our Year 9-10 students. Our school will be conducting an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) subject selection information session, which will provide valuable guidance on choosing subjects for the ATAR Year 11 program.

The session will take place on Monday, 12 June at 9:00 am. We kindly request that all current Year 9-10 students and parents attend this session, as it will significantly contribute to their understanding of the necessary steps for pursuing their desired career paths and university degrees.

During the information session, our experienced school advisor will work closely with the students to assist them in making informed decisions about their subject choices. By discussing their intended career paths and university course preferences, our advisor will provide valuable advice on the subjects that will best align with their goals.

In the ATAR program, students are generally required to undertake five subjects. However, it is important to note that only the best four subjects will be considered when calculating their ATAR scores. Therefore, making well-informed choices now will play a significant role in their future academic achievements.

We highly encourage both students and parents/guardians to attend this information session. The guidance provided during this session will empower students to make informed decisions about their subject choices and enable them to pursue their desired university degrees successfully. We would request that parents confirm their attendance by filling in the Attendance Confirmation Form Here.

RELEASE OF HSK (HANYU SHUIPING KAOSHI) RESULTS

It is with great pleasure that we inform you of the recent release of the HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) results, an international standardised test designed to assess the Chinese-language proficiency of non-native speakers.

Our school had the privilege of participating in this year's HSK examination, and we are delighted to announce that many of our students have performed exceptionally well. We would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the students who demonstrated dedication and effort, resulting in their impressive achievements.

The HSK certificates were awarded to our students as recognition of their accomplishments. These certificates hold significant value as they validate their Chinese language skills and provide a tangible testament to their hard work. We commend each student who participated in the examination for their commitment to learning and for their outstanding results.

As a school, we are proud to have played a part in supporting our students' language acquisition journey. We firmly believe that language proficiency opens doors to endless opportunities, both academically and professionally. We encourage our students to continue their pursuit of Chinese language learning and to build upon their current achievements.

We would also like to express our gratitude to the dedicated teachers who have diligently prepared our students for the HSK examination. Their guidance, expertise, and unwavering support have contributed significantly to the success of our students.

Lastly, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to you, parents and guardians, for your continuous encouragement and involvement in your child's education. Your partnership with the school has played a crucial role in fostering an environment that nurtures academic growth and personal development.

SRINAKARIN CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

We are excited to share the latest updates on the construction progress at our new Srinakarin Campus. Over the past few weeks, significant developments have taken place, bringing us closer to the completion of our new school building.

First and foremost, we are pleased to inform you that the installation of classroom doors and windows has been completed for the majority of the building. This major milestone allows us to move forward with the internal finishing works, creating a conducive learning environment for our students.

The main staircase, a prominent feature of our campus, has been plastered and is now taking shape. It serves as a vital connection between different levels of the building, ensuring smooth movement and accessibility for everyone.

The tiling work throughout the entire building is now 80% complete. The meticulous process of tiling not only enhances the aesthetics of the campus but also ensures durability and easy maintenance in the long run.

To safeguard the integrity of the building, the cement roof has been treated with anti-leak paint. This precautionary measure ensures that no water will leak into the building from the rooftop, providing a safe and dry environment for all.

Moving beyond the building's immediate structure, we are pleased to share that progress is being made in the surrounding areas. Car parking areas and roads are gradually taking shape, ensuring convenience and safety for both students and visitors.

We understand the importance of completing the construction in a timely manner, and we assure you that we are putting in our best efforts to expedite the process. Our aim is to have the building ready for Semester 2 of the new academic year, enabling a smooth transition for our students to the new campus.

We will continue to keep you updated on any further developments regarding the construction progress. Your patience and support are greatly appreciated as we work together to create a state-of-the-art learning environment for our students.

YEAR-END SCHOOL REPORT & PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE

St. Mark’s will be holding our second-semester Parent-Teacher Conference on Friday, 9 June 2023. The conference will provide opportunities for parents to communicate with teachers regarding their children's academic, social, and physical development over this past school year. As students' educational success relies on mutual cooperation between schools and homes, we highly appreciate the opportunity to engage in feedback exchange with parents and effectively manage the progress of each student.

Details of the conference time and venue are as follows: Timely arrival is encouraged to ensure that we have adequate time for each family.

It is our school policy that only parents will be allowed to attend the conference, so it is important for parents to arrange to have their children stay at home. If you will not be able to attend the Conference, please notify the school office by replying to parent@stmarks.ac.th.

After 4.30 pm on Thursday, 8 June the School Office will upload your child’s School Report under “My School Report” in the Parent Portal. It will be helpful to read the report before attending the conference. Contents of the report will enable parents to engage with the teachers more meaningfully.

Parents of primary and secondary students also have the privilege to view their children’s past test papers and examination papers by clicking on “My Assessment History” in the Parent Portal.

Please note that you will be given a signed copy of the report on the day of the conference. All electronic reports are deemed unofficial.

Please note that the conferences will mark the end of this semester. Classes for our new academic year will start on Monday, 7 August 2023.

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL ACTIVITY

On the last day of school, each class homeroom turned into the ultimate playground of laughter and excitement! The room was bursting with a contagious energy that filled the air. Students embarked on a fun adventure of games, laughter, and unforgettable moments with their beloved classmates. They feasted on mouthwatering snacks that satisfied their cravings while fueling their energy. The day was a whirlwind of joy and friendship, leaving everyone with memories that will forever bring a smile to their faces. It was the perfect finale of an incredible year, and students departed with hearts full of laughter and a treasure trove of shared experiences.

AN EXPLOSION OF CREATIVITY: END-OF-SCHOOL-YEAR ART SHOWCASE

We are thrilled to unveil the grand success of our recent End-of-School-Year Art Showcase, where the incredible talents of our Year 3 to 6 students took center stage! Prepare to be swept off your feet and immersed in a world of pure artistic wonder.

Our young artists unleashed an explosion of colors, shapes, and imagination that left everyone breathless. Oh, the sheer brilliance that adorned our exhibition room! With their skilled fingers and artistic flair, our students transformed canvas and paper into magical masterpieces. Each stroke was a revelation, capturing emotions and stories that touched our hearts.

Everyone immersed themselves in a world where imagination knows no bounds. The captivating installations and interactive displays invited everyone to dive headfirst into the realm of creativity. Laughter, play, and artistic expression merged into a symphony of pure joy!

Walking through the exhibit room was like stepping into a living kaleidoscope. Abstract expressions danced alongside breathtaking landscapes and many more. Our students' artistry knew no limits, leaving us in awe at every turn.

As we bid farewell to another school year, let's carry the spirit of creativity with us. May our students continue to dream big, explore their artistic talents, and let their imaginations soar to new heights!

INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM WITH SCHOOLS IN PERTH, AUSTRALIA

It gives us immense pleasure to announce that our school has established valuable connections with a number of good schools in Perth, Australia. Through these partnerships, we are excited to offer a unique opportunity for our students from Year 5 to 9 to participate in a global exchange program, allowing them to study in Perth for a period of 2-3 weeks each year during the months of June and July.

The objective of this program is to provide our students with a unique chance to engage with students from diverse cultures and foster global connections. Our students can gain a broader perspective of the world by immersing themselves in an international learning environment within the safe confines of a school. Global awareness is increasingly important in today's rapidly changing landscape; and we firmly believe that this exchange program will bring numerous benefits to our students. This exchange program can enhance their basic life skills, making them more adaptable and employable in the future.

Outlined below are the key details of our proposed exchange program:

Period and Length of Exchange Program: Our students will have the opportunity to study in Perth for 2-3 weeks during the months of June and July (during our school holidays). Similarly, students from Perth will visit our school for 2-3 weeks during January and February.
Students Age Group for the Exchange Program: This program is open to students from Year 5 to Year 9, allowing a wide range of participants to engage in this enriching experience.
Host Families: In the spirit of reciprocity, host families who provide accommodation for the visiting exchange students will have their children cared for by the host families on the other side. Host families will generously offer accommodation, food, and transportation for students in the exchange program.
Airport Pickup/Sending: Schools in Perth will assume responsibility for picking up and sending students to and from the airport. Schools on both sides will coordinate and determine the travel dates and flights for all participating students, ensuring that they travel on the same day and in the same flight.
Coordination and Emergency: The school principal will oversee the well-being of the exchange students throughout the program. We will implement thorough checking and screening policies for host families to ensure a safe and secure experience for the students. In the event of an emergency, the school principal will maintain constant communication with their counterpart at the partner school to address and resolve the situation collaboratively. Participating students are required to purchase travel health insurance according to terms established by the school. Participating students must not have underlying health issues that may pose a health risk while participating in the exchange program.
Cost to the Participating Students: With the exception of airfare, for which students will be responsible, and an administrative cost of 30,000 Baht, there will be no additional financial burden placed on the participating students.

We are excited about this exchange program and the vast opportunities it will offer our students. By broadening their horizons, building connections, and enhancing their intercultural competencies, we believe that this experience will be truly transformative for their personal and academic growth.

We would like to know the number of students interested in participating in this exchange program for June-July 2024. We are planning one year ahead but this information is crucial for our school to start preparing for our students to connect with those students in Perth and the host families. We want our students to have a pleasant home-stay experience during their studies in Australia.

Further details regarding the exchange program, including the application process and timelines, will be provided in the new academic year. We encourage you to attend the upcoming information session, where we will present a comprehensive overview of the program and answer any questions you may have.

Please fill in the Exchange Program Form Here if you are interested in having your child participate in this exchange program. We will place a limit on the number of students who will be participating in the exchange program each year to ensure our students will have a good experience from the program.

ANNUAL FUNCTION 2023

We are delighted to share the joyous news of the resounding success of our recent Annual School Function. It was a momentous occasion that brought together our entire school community in a celebration of talent, creativity, and achievement.

The Annual School Function was a testament to the remarkable abilities of our students. They astounded us with their awe-inspiring performances, captivating the audience with their passion and dedication. From enchanting musical numbers to breathtaking dance routines and thought-provoking theatrical productions, our students showcased their talents in a multitude of ways.

The Annual School Function not only provided a platform for our students to showcase their talents but also fostered their personal growth, confidence, and resilience. It was heartening to witness their development as they embraced challenges, honed their skills, and pushed their boundaries. These experiences will undoubtedly shape their futures and contribute to their overall development.

The event was a collaborative effort that involved the hard work and commitment of our exceptional teachers, staff members, and students. Their tireless dedication and support were instrumental in creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. We extend our deepest gratitude to each and every individual who contributed their time, skills, and enthusiasm to make this event a resounding success.

As parents, you played a crucial role in supporting your children throughout the preparation and execution of the Annual School Function. Your encouragement, attendance, and active involvement enriched the experience for our students and added to the overall vibrancy of the event. We are grateful for your unwavering support and belief in our school community.

SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM 2023

We are pleased to announce that St. Mark's will be offering a Summer School program this year from 14 June to 7 July. This program is open to all current students, as well as any outside family or friends who would like to experience the learning environment and opportunities being offered here.

Early Years & Primary Summer Program is designed to provide an opportunity for students to continue learning and growing during their summer break. The program is divided into the following classes: Early Years (for students in current Pre-Prep and Prep), Group A (for students in current Year 1 & 2), Group B (for students in current Year 3 & 4), Group C (for students in current Year 5 & 6).

Lessons in these age groups will be composed of three fun-filled theme activities - Cities of the World, Water Water Everywhere, and See How It’s Made. The activities provided will aim to fulfill students’ needs of learning with enjoyment, where learning will be achieved through hands-on activities and experiments.

The secondary Summer Program is divided into 2 groups, namely: Group D (students in current Year 7&8) and Group E (students in current Year 9&10). Students will focus on Science and Mathematics with some weekly lessons in English and Mandarin. The highlight of our program includes our collaboration with Excellent Centre for Drug Discovery (ECDD) at Mahidol University, where our students will be able to engage in various hands-on activities once per week, using high-tech laboratory machines to do real experiments in biology and chemistry.

In science, students will explore topics in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics with practical and interactive hands-on activities. Mr. Brendan will teach explain the structure of the atom, atomic symbols, writing compound formulae, and balancing equations in Chemistry. Students will also look at separation techniques used to purify mixtures, investigate factors that affect the rate of a chemical reaction, and study various acid/base reactions. In Biology students will be introduced to microscope techniques to study various types of plant and animal cells. They will also carry out investigations in photosynthesis, conduct ecological studies, look at inheritance, and carry out various chemical tests on foods. And topics such as properties of light, electricity, and electrical circuits, as well as forces and motion will covered in Physics.

Tuition for Summer School is 40,000 baht inclusive of materials and supplies, as well as a healthy lunch.
We hope that you will consider enrolling your children in our Summer School program. It is a great opportunity for them to continue learning and growing over the summer, while also having fun and making new friends. To enroll, please click Enrolment Form Here.

YEAR 1 ENGLISH: MUNG BEAN PLANTING

One of the highlights for our Year 1 English class was a project centered around the planting and nurturing of mung beans. The children had a fantastic time exploring the wonders of nature and understanding the growth process firsthand.

To kick-start their exploration of plants, the Year 1 class decided to focus on mung beans, a versatile and nutritious legume. The children were eager to get their hands dirty as we discussed parts of a plant, the importance of seeds, and conditions necessary for germination. Equipped with pots, soil, and seeds, our little gardeners embarked on their journey to plant their very own mung beans.

The children cared for their mung beans with great anticipation, making sure they received the right amount of water, sunlight, and love. Through regular observation and discussion, students explored the different stages of plant growth - from germination to the emergence of the first leaves and the development of sturdy stems. The excitement on their faces as they witnessed their plants thriving was truly a sight to behold.

To enhance their English language skills, students documented their observations and described their experiences using descriptive terms. This exercise not only allowed them to practice their speaking and writing skills but also fostered a sense of ownership and pride in their work.

YEAR 4 MANDARIN: FOUR SEASONS

Our Year 4 students embarked on an exciting journey to explore the four seasons in Chinese. They deepened their understanding of the cultural significance and linguistic expressions associated with each season through a variety of engaging activities and immersive experiences.

The students learned to appreciate the beauty of the seasons through vivid vocabulary and descriptive phrases in Mandarin. In addition to vocabulary and phrases, our students engaged in cultural immersion experiences related to each season. They explored traditional Chinese festivals, learned a variety of seasonal customs, and discovered the significance of nature in Chinese culture. By incorporating role-plays, games, and multimedia resources, we aimed to enhance their language development, foster cultural appreciation, and encourage effective communication in Mandarin.

YEAR 6 P.E.: BASKETBALL

In our Year 6 Physical Education (P.E.) class, students have been passionately engaging in the exciting world of basketball. They embarked on an exhilarating basketball journey with their enthusiastic participation, teamwork, and perseverance.

The basketball unit began with a focus on building fundamental skills. The students learned proper dribbling techniques, shooting form, passing strategies, and defensive maneuvers. They practiced these skills through a series of drills and fun mini-games, steadily improving their coordination, agility, and overall basketball proficiency.

Basketball is not just about individual skills; it's a team sport that thrives on collaboration and camaraderie. Our Year 6 students embraced the values of teamwork and sportsmanship, understanding the importance of communication, support, and respect for their teammates and opponents alike. They displayed tremendous growth in their ability to work together, strategize, and adapt to different game scenarios.

YEAR 8 MANDARIN: CONSTRUCTING SENTENCES

Our Year 8 students made wonderful progress in expanding their vocabulary and reinforcing their word knowledge through sentence construction exercises in their Mandarin class. Over the past semester, they focused on enhancing their language skills, using a variety of words accurately in their written and verbal communication.

The students were introduced to new words and encouraged to explore their meaning, context, and usage through discussion and research. This initiative aimed to increase their overall vocabulary and promote curiosity.

Students were given sentence construction exercises. These exercises aimed to reinforce the newly learned words by challenging the students to use them in meaningful and grammatically correct sentences. Students were given a list of words and were required to construct sentences that demonstrated a thorough understanding of the words.

Through engaging exercises and activities, we have seen remarkable growth in their word knowledge and ability to express themselves effectively. We will continue to nurture their language skills to ensure continued success.

STMARKS NEWSLETTER 15 (8 JUNE 2023)