May 2014 - The St. Bridget`s Schools
Transcription
May 2014 - The St. Bridget`s Schools
The St. Bridget’s Post May 2014 Thank You On behalf of the Board of Trustees, it is my pleasure to write to you through this maiden edition of The St. Bridget’s Post. Our school is growing, and growing very fast. As we undergo this period of rapid transformation, we feel it is necessary to open a direct and more personal line of communication with you, members of The St. Bridget’s family. We owe it to you all—parents; guardians; students; pupils; staff; alumni; and associates—to keep you well informed of the developments in your school. The St. Bridget’s Post is intended to do just that. 2 You will find that many aspects of your school are changing. Our transition to an alldigital classroom with tablet devices and expanded online content for teachers and students; expansion of our digital and physical library to provide more learning materials for students; improvements to our residential and medical care facilities for boarding students (including routine dental and eye exams for all our boarding students); our developing relationships with sister schools within and outside Nigeria that will support exchange programs for our students; the commencement of the St. Bridget’s Summer School program; the expansion of our special education facilities to support children with special education needs; the approval of The St. Bridget’s Institute that would train professionals and mid-career personnel; our pioneering effort in online learning for primary and secondary school students; our expanded learning and gaming facilities for pre-school, primary and secondary students; and on and on and on. You are probably surprised to learn that all this is happening in your school. We do not want to surprise you. That is why we felt we should publish The St. Bridget’s Post as a platform for us to exchange ideas and keep you abreast of the developments in your school. It is hard to believe that our institution is more than 25 years old. I remember when St. Bridget‘s was an idea, an idea that was formed out of a dedicated teacher‘s belief that a good private institution could close the widening attainment gap created by a weakened public education system. In 1986 when this idea was first floated by Lady Bridget Nwankwo, it seemed radical. We opened our doors to the first set of students at the end of 1987. Today there are private schools everywhere. However, St. Bridget‘s has maintained a unique position amongst private schools. We are still one of the most affordable. We are consistently ranked highest amongst our peer schools. Our students and alumni have an unusual affiliation to the school given their experience at St. Bridget’s. As I travel to many (unlikely) places, I meet students who graduated from the school and are only proud to credit their personal and professional accomplishments to the discipline and rigorous instruction they received at St. Bridget’s. Those of us who are charged with leading the institution into its future have a unique responsibility. Just as we championed the transition to private education two decades ago, we now have a responsibility to elevate and transform the quality of private education so as to meet the demands of the future, a future that will be defined by technology. In other words we have to chart the course for the next 25 years of affordable private education—today! This education of which we speak will emphasize academic as well as personal development. That will be the new normal. This is our mission, hence our new mantra, St. Bridget’s - Beyond Learning. This poses a challenge as it creates an opportunity. The opportunity before us is to transform the institution into a formidable force that will continue to shape young minds and develop leaders 25 years from now! The challenge is to preserve those values and morals that have guided our growth over the past 25 years. This is what the leadership of the school is confronted with daily. You have my commitment; we all take this responsibility seriously. We cannot be successful if we do not establish new and ongoing channels to convey those developments to you, while eliciting your ideas and suggestions on how to make our institution better. Your input and energy have combined to build an outstanding institution. However, we cannot rest on our laurels. There is much work ahead. The future beckons. For your contribution thus far, and the much to come, I thank you personally. The St. Bridget’s Post provides a quick update on the major developments in our school. It also provides useful information that would enable you fully participate in the events and activities taking place at the school. It will come to you periodically. I recognize that we all are busy, but please, please, read it. Above all, we want your feedback. Look in on us as we pursue this evolution of our institution. Demand more of us. Your ideas are most welcome. Please email me personally ([email protected]) if you have any ideas or suggestions (or the occasional concern) on how we can improve our institution. I am honoured to have you as my family member. I look forward to hearing from you, and working with you as we shape the future of this institution. Warmest regards, Emeka Nwankwo Emeka Nwankwo, D.Eng.Sc. Chairman of the Board Human Capital Meet The New Chaplain An important part of our commitment in the St. Bridget‘s family is to continue the faith-based, Christian-centered education that we have provided for the past quarter of a century. The School Chaplain is critical in the guidance of our students—and staff—along this virtuous path. In our search for a Chaplain, we wanted a leader who would bring a broad-based, realworld perspective to the Vicarage. We are very pleased to introduce our new Chaplain, Reverend Austin Iroajanma, who joined us from Kaduna at the beginning of the year. 4 Reverend Iroajanma has a very unusual background for a priest. With a degree in marketing, he began his career at Rank Xerox where he worked for a decade, overseeing corporate sales of copiers and high-end office automation equipment. He rose to the senior position of a Regional Manager at Xerox before leaving to pursue his childhood dream of becoming a lawyer. He resigned to study law at ABU, Zaria (all the while hearing the calling of the priesthood). After a decade of legal practice (specializing in corporate & international law) he finally yielded to the calling and went to Trinity Theological College, Umuahia, after which he received his formal ordination in the Anglican Church. He returned to Kaduna and in his words, was ―looking for a place that would blend all my skills and experiences into one job where I can serve the Lord‖. We are pleased he found this home at St. Bridget‘s. An avid reader and prolific writer, he is married with four children. In addition to his role as the Chaplain, Rev. Iroajanma is also the Director of our newly formed Office of Institutional Development (OID). He is always eager to meet all members of the St. Bridget‘s family. Please join us in welcoming him. His email address is [email protected]. Human Capital Our New Structure A school of our size needs continuous improvement in both our structure and function. To accomplish this, we have revised the administrative structure of the school to meet the demands (and realize the opportunities) of the next two decades. To most parents this restructuring should be transparent, except for what we hope will be significant (and noticeable) improvements in our ability to teach and groom our students into young adults. Overall direction of the school is provided by a Board of Trustees through the President (we shall introduce members of the Board in subsequent editions of the St. Bridget’s Post). There are three main operating divisions in the school. The Provost runs the academic affairs of the school. The Corporate Services Division (CSD) manages the financial and operational affairs of the school. The Office of Institutional Development (OID) is in charge of new initiatives and development programs in the school. The ongoing digital transition in the school, in which EVERY student in St. Bridget‘s will use tablet devices for learning (beginning September 2014), is managed by OID, along with the upcoming Homecoming Event (planned for 19th-21st December, 2014). OID has successfully implemented the delivery of tablet devices to our staff to enable them develop the skills needed to teach students in this digital age. These and many more of the new initiatives outlined in this edition of The St. Bridget’s Post are being driven by OID. The formation of OID underscores our commitment to continuous improvement of The St. Bridget’s Schools. Their mandate is simple: Innovate. We hope you will quickly see and feel the impact of OID in the lives of our students. Human Capital New Appointments This reorganization points a clear direction to our future. One division (CSD) manages the administrative affairs, another (OID) manages the improvement of the school, and another (the Office of the Provost) focuses on teaching. These are the three legs of the stool that support The St. Bridget’s Schools. This reorganization has created a number of new positions and staff assignments which we would like to bring to your attention. Mrs. Ihuoma Iwueze has now been promoted from her previous position as Assistant Director in charge of operations at the College. She is now the Director, Corporate Services Division (CSD). In this role, she is responsible for the administrative and financial support services for the entire school. Mrs. Iwueze is a chemist by training and has worked at St. Bridget‘s since 1995. Her email address is [email protected] 6 Our focus is academic, however, there are other critical elements we need to be successful. At the College we have created a three-legged structure to better support the students. The Vice Principal, Academic Affairs, is in charge of learning and all matters directly relating to the learning process and the performance of teachers inside the classroom. The Vice Principal, Student’s Affairs, is responsible for the life of students outside the classroom, including the residence halls, feeding, sports, health and all non-academic needs of the students. The Vice Principal, Institutional Affairs, is responsible for all staff and administrative matters at the College. They report to the Principal, and together they constitute the Office of College Administration (OCA), seeing to the intellectual, social, physical, psychological and moral development of our students at the College. Human Capital New Appointments (Cont’d) Mrs. Rita Inwalome was appointed Vice Principal (VP), Institutional Affairs, at the beginning of the session. A chemist by training, Mrs. Inwalome also has a postgraduate diploma in education. Following a successful career in industry, Mrs. Inwalome joined the staff of the school in 2007 and has distinguished herself both inside and outside the classroom. Her rapport with students, parents and colleagues alike, combined with her personal commitment to excellence qualify her for this promotion. This follow her previous assignments as policy coordinator, senior coordinator and so on. She has undertaken an aggressive program of improvements in the school since her appointment. She is currently the Acting Principal and is in charge of the new St. Bridget’s Summer School program at the College. Her email address is [email protected]. Ms. Josephine Alokalam was appointed VP, Student‘s Affairs at the beginning of the session. She is responsible for the ‗residential experience‘ of the students at the College. A computer scientist with a postgraduate diploma in education, Ms. Alokalam joined the staff in 2006. In her new role, she has spearheaded a number of significant improvements in the hostels including the weekly variety night events, inter-house competitions, social & activity clubs, and other initiatives aimed at giving the students a more stimulating residential experience. Her email address is [email protected] Mr. Sunday Omenihu was promoted from Dean of Studies to VP, Academic Affairs. In this role, he is charged with the improvements in the classroom and the learning process. Mr. Omenihu joined the staff in 2005. He has a master‘s degree in agricultural economics. His email address is [email protected]. Human Capital New Appointments (Cont’d) Our restructuring effort is by no means limited to the College. We have adopted a leadership structure at the Primary School similar to that at the College. The Head Teacher, Academic Affairs, is in charge of the academic affairs at the school. The Head Teacher for Institutional Affairs, is in charge of all staff and administrative affairs, and is also in charge of the coordination of the new St. Bridget’s Summer School. 8 From the structure shown here, you shall notice that we have a new position of a Head Teacher for Special Education. St. Bridget‘s was recently designated as a UBEC Center for Special Education by the Federal Government. This center has a mandate to develop services that support students with special needs as well as the training of teachers to support those students. The Head Teacher for Special Education shall oversee this effort. Mrs. Chinwe David has been with St. Bridget‘s from the day we opened our doors more than 25 years ago. Mrs. David has been involved in literally every developmental effort in the school. She has become synonymous with the values and temperament of the institution. Until her promotion to Head Teacher, Institutional Affairs, she was head teacher in charge of academics at the primary school. Mrs. David is now responsible for the digital transition at the primary school as well as the development of the new summer school program for domestic and international students. She will act as a liaison with our sister schools in the US and the UK. In addition to her bachelor‘s degree in social studies education, she also has a diploma in administrative management. Her email address is [email protected]. Human Capital New Appointments (Cont’d) Mrs. Edith Alozie joined The St. Bridget‘s Schools in 2006 after a distinguished career as a teacher and administrator in the public school system. In her second career at St. Bridget‘s, Mrs. Alozie joined as a Program Coordinator at the Primary School. She has just been promoted to Manager, Educational Enterprise Development (in OID). In this role, she is charged with developing new programs for the school. Mrs. Alozie has been pivotal in securing the recent approval and registration of the new St. Bridget’s Institute. (We congratulate her and the OID team on this accomplishment.) This tertiary institution will train and develop a new class of professionals in a variety of fields. At its core there will be two schools, each with a variety of departments. The School of Professional Development will award diplomas and professional certifications while the School of Lifelong Learning will focus on personal development. The courses to be offered by the School of Professional Development will include computing & digital technologies, business & entrepreneurship, the medical arts, and teacher education. (We shall provide more information about The St. Bridget’s Institute in the next edition of the St. Bridget’s Post.) Mrs. Alozie is also involved in the development of the new St. Bridget’s Summer School program at the primary school and the college. Her email address is [email protected] Student Government We are committed to actively involving students in the governance of the school. To that end, the Board initiated and approved the formation of a Student Senate at the College. This was a radical development that was very exciting to the students. The Senate is comprised of ten (10) Senators (one male and one female) from JS2 through SS3. The Senators have the power to recommend disciplinary action against errant colleagues, while providing a valuable conduit for suggestions and recommendations to the school administration based on input from their constituents. All Senate deliberations are public. The administration may also present matters to the Senate for deliberation as duly elected representatives of the student population. Elections were held at the end of the last academic session for the Senators who are serving this academic session. The Senators were sworn in at a public ceremony at the beginning of this academic year by a sitting judge from the Abia State judiciary. From the St. Bridget‘s Student Senate Handbook: 10 “Current prefects are NOT eligible to run for the Senate.” “Senate candidates MUST be of exemplary character. Any prior acts of indiscipline, unruliness, moral laxity, academic laxity, waywardness, laziness, sloth, or other behavior inconsistent with that of a leader will be AUTOMATIC grounds for disqualification. Any nominee may be challenged by ANY student by referring to prior (or ongoing) acts “inconsistent with that of a St. Bridget’s Senator”. The CSG has the authority to disqualify ANY nominee based on any findings or prior conduct that is inconsistent with those expected of a Senator.” This insistence on exemplary character amongst Senate aspirants led to the public challenge and ultimate disqualification of Senatorial aspirants in the last election. The next election is due at the end of the third term. Parents and guardians are duly advised to reinforce the benefit of good behavior to their wards given the potential impact on their ability to hold office. Mrs. Ngozi Ukaeze was appointed Coordinator of Student Government (CSG); she oversees the smooth operation of the Senate. Her training in political science (education) has been vital in the development and management of this student governance structure. We acknowledge and thank her for her leadership. Residence Life As part of the engagement of the students, the Board approved the renaming and rebranding of the student hostels. Students were asked to rename their residence hostels. A professional graphic designer was hired to finalize their sketch- es of the new crests. The final designs are shown here. Can you match the new crests with the old hostel names? Residence Life 12 Health & Wellness We have been working on improving our health services at the school. A top-tobottom review of our health system showed two critical issues we need to address. First, we need to expand the range of health treatment services at the clinic. We are working feverishly to expand the clinic to a modern primary healthcare facility that can cater to the entire St. Bridget‘s family. (Vaccinations and immunizations are high on our agenda.) We will provide more details in future editions of the St. Bridget’s Post. Secondly, and perhaps, more importantly, we need to improve our preventive healthcare interventions. We need to make sure that we provide some of those basic services that are lacking due to the challenges in the Nigerian public health care system. This is what good schools like ours should do. We are stepping up to this challenge. Starting this year, we shall provide the following services at the school: 1. Routine annual dental examination for every student at St. Bridget‘s College. Dental care is one of the most overlooked (and critical) facets of personal wellness. Most people do not appreciate the connection between dental health and EVERY other aspect of health. Our informal local survey showed that MOST adults (upwards of 95%) and virtually all students had never visited a dentist without an emergency. We are committed to avoiding those emergencies by providing annual dental checkups at St. Bridget‘s. We have secured the services of an experienced board-certified dentist to provide affordable dental examinations for all our students. The discovery of serious (or potentially serious) dental problems will enable us to alert parents for further intervention. We are asking parents to provide the required consent (see page 26) to enable us provide this routine dental exam. 2. Routine eye exams for every student at St. Bridget‘s College. Students need their eyes. Unfortunately a lot of students develop vision problems and absent the proper—and timely– diagnosis of these problems, their school performance suffers. We want to rectify this situation by intervening early. Routine eye exams by our visiting board-certified optometrist will help identify problems before they become major obstacles in the development of our students. Similarly, we are asking parents to provide the consent for us to extend this service to their wards (see page 26). Failure to complete the form will mean that we will NOT extend this service to your child or ward. We look forward to your partnership in this wellness endeavour. Teaching & Learning 14 We are excited about the changes taking place inside our classrooms. Here is a quick list: 1. We have started refurbishing our classrooms at the College to provide more comfortable chairs for the students. This is particularly important given the introduction of digital devices into our classrooms. Our goal is to replace all the furniture in the classes by the end of this academic year. We are providing integrated chairs/desks and keyed lockers so students can safely secure their property in classes while de-cluttering their desks. 2. We have moved all our recordkeeping in the College to our electronic dashboard. This includes records of hostel assignments, bus movement and all facets of College life. This has greatly streamlined our records management process in the school. 3. Following the deployment of our digital infrastructure, every parent (and student) can now log into our secure web site and check on the progress of their child. Academic records, disciplinary issues, accomplishments and similar progress reports can be accessed online quickly using our secure portal—from the comfort of home. No more waiting till the end of the term to check on the progress of your child or ward. This way, parents are continuously involved in the development of their wards. 4. To facilitate communication with parents, we shall provide EVERY parent in St. Bridget‘s a free email address ([email protected]). This is to ensure that every parent can receive academic updates (including end-of-term report cards) via a secure email address. Most parents by the end of the second term of this year would have received student report cards via email. We will continue the rollout of this process till it covers all parents, including those at the primary school. 5. As you can see, we have also published contact email addresses for key staff so it is easy to reach them, and address any parent‘s concerns or needs. This is part of our commitment to keep the lines of communication open. Teaching & Learning 6. We have provided virtually all our tutorial staff with affordable tablet devices from our partner organization (Oyivo Publishing). The Oyivo SchoolBook[TM] was developed specifically for teachers and students to provide affordable access to digital content. This is transforming the process of teaching and learning. Following the rollout of these devices to our staff, we have undertaken a series of programs to train them in the use of digital devices as teaching aids. This has had a remarkable impact on their ability to research, develop, communicate, and convey ideas to students. 7. It should come as no surprise that we have installed satellite-based internet connection to all our campuses. This way, staff have ready access to the internet and all the teaching support it provides. This enables us to collaborate with partner and associate organizations around the world. Given that our records are cloud-based, we have taken particular care to secure our digital infrastructure so as to maintain data integrity. However, we have imposed very strict limits on students‘ access to make sure that their use is monitored and controlled. This is to avoid the everpresent temptations and distractions that could result from unmonitored internet use. 8. We will begin the rollout of the use of the tablets to students in the third term of the 2014 academic year on a pilot basis. This pilot is intended to help us gather the necessary data and finalize the process that would support a broad-based rollout to the student population in the 2015 academic session. 9. We have successfully piloted an annual mandatory training program for our senior staff and leadership. This training program will be extended to all our staff by the end of this year, focusing on improved service delivery, professional conduct and ethics. Reinforcing these values in our staff will ensure that they convey the same to our students. 10. We are starting the St. Bridget‘s Summer School……… See the next page. Summer School Students learn year-round. The process does not stop when the session ends. However, many research studies have shown that students often lose ground in their schoolwork after the long vacation. This explains why some students record lower grades in the first term of the (new) year than in the subsequent terms. However, students need time away from their core textbooks to be stimulated and engaged in their interests and curiosities. This process helps them to develop into well-rounded, intelligent adults. This is the exact purpose of summer school—cool school. 16 It is meant to broaden students‘ horizons far beyond what the strict curriculum permits; it gives them an opportunity to learn things they may never learn in the course of schoolwork, and it sparks their individual curiosity in a way that a regular classroom simply could not. So summer school must be personalized, allowing the student the room to pick and explore their areas of interest. A good summer school program MUST not default to an extension (or remedial) class but instead create a clear gateway to learning NEW things. It must provide a diversity of experiences that help the student develop an awareness of their skills and interests, which will ultimately impact their career choices and personal development. Finally, summer school is a great opportunity to meet students from other schools and backgrounds and to share experiences—and develop friendships– that may last a lifetime. This is EXACTLY how we have designed the St. Bridget‘s Summer School. Though it is intended for our students, we welcome students from other schools. The curriculum for the primary school and college follow below. Given the unique nature of the programs, space is very limited. Parents are required to submit the Expression of Interest form by June the 23rd to reserve space for their children Summer School Curriculum (College) Summer School runs from the 4th of August to the 29th of August, 2014. It is a residential program. Students must pick at least one course from at least four concentrations (in addition to the six mandatory courses) for a total of 12 courses for summer school. The Humanities & Social Sciences: Politics & Social Activism In Nigeria: Nigeria has a rich and long history of social activism. In fact, some have argued that the failure of the state has been mitigated by the highly developed culture of social activism and self-help that has stepped into the breach. In this course, students will learn our history through the eyes of social activists - common people who by sheer dint of courage, have achieved uncommon outcomes for the greater good. A Walking History of Nigeria: The history of Nigeria is easily forgotten. Historic events have taken place at locations people pass everyday without an appreciation for how those events have shaped our lives. In this course, geography and history meet, to reveal to students critical historical events (and where they occurred) that continue to shape our lives today. Law Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing lawyer to understand what the profession really is like. The Priesthood Practicum: Here students understudy an actual priest to understand what it takes to be a proficient priest. The Creative Arts Digital Photography: Still pictures retain the power to convey powerful emotions and incite action. The transition to digital photography has been rapid and pervasive. In this course, students will learn the basics of photography and how to use digital cameras for quality pictures. Creative Writing: This course will teach students how to move people with words on paper. Students who are interested in career as authors, journalists, bloggers or similar will benefit from this course. Cloth Weaving (Akwette): This is one of the most important aspects of Igbo (indeed African) culture. We have often documented the seminal events in our lives (childbirth, marriage, death, etc.) in woven cloth. Akwette (cloth) has a rich historical and aesthetic presence. In this course, students will learn from a master weaver how (and why) Akwette is made. Students will be expected to gain first-hand experience in this most beautiful of art forms by making a piece of Akwette. Wood Carving (Ikot Ekpene): Wood is the longest standing of art media. Wood carving is a very highly developed art form in Ikot Ekpene. Students will learn from master carvers from Ikot Ekpene how a seemingly lifeless piece of timber can be transformed into a living moving work of art. Students will be expected to create their own 'masterpieces' as part of this course. Introduction to Digital Art: Everyone has experienced digital art. The moving images and captions on TV programs, cartoons, animations, and a variety of visual images are digital in their entirety. In this course, students will be taught the basics of digital art and will be required to create digital artworks as part of their training experience. Alternative Visual Arts (Charcoal, Tie-dye & Other Forms of Art): Charcoal, tie-dye and other physical media have been used for ages to create stunning works of art. In this course, students will learn how to use common items that exist around the locality, to create compelling art pieces. Introduction to Film Making: Students will learn how to make movies from working filmmakers - by making their own movies. Summer School Curriculum (College) 18 The Medical & Biological Arts Introduction to Biotechnology: This is one of the most critical new sciences of the past three decades. Biotechnology provides a platform for the development of new food sources as well as new body parts. This course introduces students to the latest developments in biotechnology and the career options presented by biotech. Sports Physiology & Fitness: The body is a machine, a very well designed machine. As sports and fitness become more important, careers and large swathes of the economy depend on physical fitness. (Think of the tens of billions spent on the Olympics or the hundreds of billions spent on soccer worldwide. All of these REQUIRE people to be fit and perform at extraordinary levels.) This course will teach students how to manage the body to deliver peak performance in sporting environments, and for everyday wellness. Cosmetology & Beauty: Here students will learn the science of beauty from an expert. They will learn how to do makeup, manage the skin and its appearance, differentiate skin textures, evaluate different types of makeup, and other elements of the beauty business. Hair Dressing & Management: There are thousands of hair styles and designs. In this course, students will learn how to identify, manage, grow and style different hair textures. Medicine Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing doctor to understand what the profession really is like. Dentistry Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing dentist to understand what the profession really is like. Optometry Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing optometrist to understand what the profession really is like. Public Health Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing public health specialist to understand what the profession really is like. Entrepreneurship Starting Your Own Business: Many students dream of owning their own business or come from families that own businesses. In this course, students will learn how to conceive and evaluate their business ideas. The deliverable in this course will be an actual business plan for their chosen business endeavours. This is a discipline that will be essential to their future entrepreneurial aspirations. Social Entrepreneurship: "Doing well while doing good." Students will learn about social entrepreneurship and its ability to improve the lives of many. Environmental Management & Green Technologies: Managing the environment is a fast-growing industry. As man's footprint on earth becomes more pervasive and destructive, good managers are needed to ameliorate this impact. In this course, students will be introduced to the concepts (and conflicts) that underpin this fascinating profession. Hospitality & Event Management: Nigerians are a very social people. Events are almost a weekly requirement for the typical Nigerian. An incredible amount of wealth is expended on social events, however, very few of these events are well managed and planned. This course will introduce students to the concepts of hospitality and event management. Summer School Curriculum (College) The Engineering Arts & Crafts Robotics & Programming of Microcontrollers: Robots are here; more are coming. Today, there are 'personal' robots that vacuum-clean our floors, wash our cars, and cook our food. Of course, industrial robots work in factories to produce virtually all the cars and electronic devices we use today. The operation of robots is managed by microcontrollers. This course will introduce students to practical uses of microcontrollers. Students will be expected to build an actual device as part of this course. Introduction to Database Programming: Modern life is managed by databases. Virtually ALL facets of modern life (from the movement of airplanes, to the internet itself, through to EVERY phone that is working today) are run by databases. Students will be taught how databases work and how to program these applications to achieve their end results. Web Design: Each student will be guided to conceive and develop their own web site. The pass mark in this class will be based on other people evaluating the web sites created by the students. Repair & Maintenance of Computers: Computers are here to stay. Their size and form factor may be changing but computers are going to be a part of everyone's life. In this course, students will be introduced to the essential elements that will enable them to evaluate, diagnose, repair and maintain these ubiquitous devices. Introduction to Product Development: There is a science to making things. Whether it is a new digital device, or the development of this curriculum for this summer school. There is a process by which new products and processes can be developed. In this course, students will have to conceive and produce something by going through a structured process that enables them to control the form, function and effectiveness of their product (or service) concepts. Architecture Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing professional to understand what the profession really is like. Civil Engineering Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing professional to understand what the profession really is like. Chemical Engineering Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing professional to understand what the profession really is like. Agriculture & Commercial Farming Practicum: Food is an essential part of everyone‘s life. Unfortunately we do not pay sufficient attention (or money) to those who feed us everyday. This most important of practicum experiences will expose students to a practicing agriculturist. They will learn what it takes to run a farm and what the career options are in farming and agriculture. Food Science & Nutrition Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing professional to understand what the profession really is like. Welding & Fabrication Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing professional to understand what the profession really is like. Woodworking & Furniture Making Practicum: Here students understudy a practicing professional to understand what the profession really is like. Summer School Curriculum (College) MANDATORY COURSES Even though we have a variety of courses for summer school, there is a core set of courses we want every student to take. These core courses build a common foundation for the community of students before returning to their respective schools. These include the following: First Aid & CPR: Students will learn how to perform CPR and to administer first aid in emergency situations. This will be a hands-on training experience and each student should expect to leave with a personal first-aid kit which they may use in the future. Living Abroad: An Open Conversation: Most students (indeed many Nigerians) dream of living abroad. Unfortunately, most of them do not realize the social, cultural, climactic and financial challenges associated with living abroad. In this course, students will talk to people who live abroad and be able to ask open and direct questions about what it is like living in a foreign country. Students will be expected to write an essay about their takeaway from the conversation at the end of the course. Money Management & Personal Finance: Most people on earth are 'financial illiterates'. They start handling money at a very tender age but are never taught what money is, how it really works, and how to manage it. Also the vital connection between spending habits and personal values is an understanding most people lack. This course will teach the students how to earn, manage and retain their money so as to improve their personal finances. Speech, Rhetoric & Public Speaking: According to a recent survey, public speaking is the second most frightening experience to most people (right behind a close encounter with snakes). This course will prepare students (through a very practical process) for a lifetime of comfortable and confident public speaking. Learning & Research With Digital Devices: This course will help students overcome the initial excitement of using digital devices to see them as serious learning tools that can be very helpful in their school work. They will learn how to operate these devices and will go through a structured process in which they learn to conduct online research using internet resources. Excursion: Students will visit at least one museum and one other facility to experience the rich (and often neglected) historical and entrepreneurial heritage that abounds locally. 20 Parents must complete the Expression of Interest form by June 23rd in order to secure a place in summer school. Summer School Curriculum (Primary School) Summer School at the primary school runs from the 4th of August to the 29th of August, 2014. It is NOT a residential program. Students are expected to participate in all the programs outlined below with the guidance of the instructors. Students would spend about a third of their time in academic classes and the rest in these value-added classes. . Introduction To The Piano & Music Theory: Pupils learn how to play the piano and are exposed to the rudiments of music theory (reading music). Typing & Keyboard Techniques: Today‘s pupils will spend a significant part of their lives using a computer. This class will teach them how to type properly. Introduction To The Computer: Pupils will learn how to use the computer. Introductory Computer Graphics: Here pupils learn how to design simple images on the computer. Cursive Writing: Pupils will spend time learning how to improve their penmanship by practicing cursive writing. Gaming On Nintendo Wii: This is a fun experience in which pupils play a variety of games on the Nintendo Wii. Introduction to CPR/First Aid: Pupils are never too young to learn the simple life-saving techniques of first aid/CPR. The life saved could be that of a parent, a sibling or a friend. Pupils will learn CPR/first aid in this class. Word Processing: Pupils will learn the basics of word processing—a skill they will need throughout their academic and professional lives. Scientific Exploration: Pupils will watch scientific videos and then recreate the experiments in those videos using simple, safe items. Class Drama: Pupils (in groups) will be guided in the preparation and presentation of drama sketches. Excursion/Field Trips: Pupils will visit a number of museums and scientific establishments to expand their horizons. Parents must submit the Expression of Interest form by June 23rd in order to secure a place in summer school (see page 26). Alumni Relations Save The Date!! Worldwide Reunion & Homecoming For Old Students!!! December 19-21, 2014 22 We are announcing the Worldwide Reunion & Homecoming well in advance to enable people plan ahead. St. Bridget‘s old students live all over the world and many may be contemplating coming home. Scheduling the Reunion & Homecoming around the Christmas break would enable those who are thinking of coming home to combine the event with a planned trip home. We do not want anyone to miss out on this wonderful event (which we plan to have every two (2) years). Come and reconnect with friends and classmates from all over the world who you may not have seen in a long time. Come and see the developments in your school and reminisce about your days at St. Bridget‘s. Come for a weekend of relaxation, fun discussions and exciting events planned for you, to celebrate the time you spent at the school. Come and relax from your hectic schedule; take some time off. St. Bridget‘s Worldwide Reunion & Homecoming is scheduled for Friday, December 19th to Sunday December 21st, 2014. Mark the date on your calendar and begin planning to reunite with old friends and classmates. Register NOW!!! Alumni Relations So What Should You Do Now? 1. Simply send us an email ([email protected]) so we know you plan to attend. Please provide your FULL name ( & maiden name if you are now married), year of enrolment, email address and contact details. (Even if you‘re not sure you will come, go ahead and register.) 2. If you cannot get online, send us a text message (+ 234 803 911 8928) with the same information and we will register you. 3. Pass this information on to other old students who you may be in contact with. That way they too can register for the Reunion & Homecoming event. 4. Please respond to the email notices and updates we shall be sending out over the next few weeks. We will ask for confirmation closer to the date and will also make arrangements for accommodation for those who may need assistance with arranging accommodation. Questions? Send us an email ([email protected]) or give us a call + 234 803 911 8928 See you at the Reunion & Homecoming! Schedule of Events DAY 1: Checking In Arrival & registration Familiarization & school tour Luncheon Novelty match between old students & current students DAY 2: Colloquium & Dinner Welcome address by the Founder, The St. Bridget‘s Schools Remarks by National President of SANBROSANS Inauguration of SANBROSANS International St. Bridget‘s Colloquium: A lively debate by two (surprise) guests titled ―Naija or Nigerian: Which one are you?‖. Closing remarks by the Chairman, The Board of Trustees Dinner Party DAY 3: Reunion Service & Departure Thank You As I hand over the reins at St. Bridget’s, I reflect on how far we have come. It is said that there can be no success without a successor. I am humbled and most thankful for what can only be God’s grace in providing a new generation of leaders to drive The St. Bridget’s Schools into its next quarter century of growth and service. This transition has been smoother than I could have ever imagined. 24 I watch in awe as the school takes on new breadth and depth—from the new logo and name (The St. Bridget’s Schools) to the recently approved St. Bridget’s Institute. We will soon be able to provide ―lifecycle training‖, from kindergarten through the primary and secondary levels to the Institute which will cater to working professionals as well as retired persons seeking personal development. I must confess I did not see all this when we started in 1987 but I knew God had a purpose for this institution. HIS purpose is being realized. Given how many of our establishments (both public and private) fail to survive the founders, this is perhaps, the greatest blessing of all—the success that can only come from having successors. Please join me in Thanksgiving. The Summer School program is about to take off. We look forward in anticipation to seeing all our students from the past at the Homecoming & Reunion slated for December. The hostels have assumed new identities—and energy– with students ever more excited about the changes taking place at the school (including the Senate elections). Our report cards and student records management systems have all gone digital. We shall soon provide training assistance to our parents so they too can learn how to use computers and digital devices just like their wards and children in the school. (Parents and children learning together!) The new organizational structure reaffirms our unflagging commitment to improvement and excellence. We are growing! When I learned to teach—and manage other teachers– more than fifty years ago, computers did not belong anywhere close to the classroom. In that time span, the core values in teaching have not changed but the methods have. We hold on to those values while embracing the new methods. To watch the so-called ―digital transition‖ taking place in EVERY classroom at St. Bridget’s fills my heart with joy. When I speak to current educators in the US & UK, we seem to be moving ahead of many of them in integrating digital technologies into our classroom. We are leading. Our commitment to providing affordable, Christiancentered quality education is as strong as ever. The fact that very soon every child will use an Oyivo SchoolBook for classes, and that our teachers have already undergone the necessary training and orientation to use these devices as teaching aids is exciting. I watch many of our staff who (I must confess) I did not believe would ever be interested in computers, pull out their tablet devices in staff meetings in a manner that today seems routine and ubiquitous. It was not that way a short while ago. (I have also started using the digital devices myself!) There is change in the air, a spring in the step of the staff as they learn and implement new processes. This is progress. As a mother, I can give no greater endorsement: if I had school-age children, I would send them to St. Bridget’s today—and in the future. We have been blessed with loyal parents and disciplined children who value education and want to learn. Above all, we have outstanding and dedicated staff who want to teach. A good number of the staff at the primary school today were there when we opened our doors in 1988. This is a gift—the invaluable gift of loyalty—for which I will be eternally grateful. Though I plan to remain involved in the affairs of the school, I shall do so in a supporting role as our new leadership takes over the helm. I have served. For this priviledge, I thank you. Most affectionately, Lady Bridget Nwankwo, M.Ed. Founder & Director Emeritus The St. Bridget’s Schools FORMS TO BE COMPLETED (PLEASE READ THIS CAREFULLY!) In the following pages (pages 27-35) you will find the following forms: 1. Student Biodata/Health Information Form (mandatory) 2. Summer School (Expression of Interest Form) 3. FREE Intro Computer Class For Parents (Expression of Interest Form) 4. St. Bridget‘s New Student (Expression of Interest Form) EVERY parent must return the biodata/health information form indicated above, marked in red (Student Biodata/Health Information Form). Parents who have more than one child in the school should make copies of the blank form. Each form covers only ONE child. 26 If you would like to register your child in summer school for the primary school or college, kindly complete the relevant form. IF you would like to register more than one child, feel free to photocopy the relevant form. Only one child per form. (SUMMER SCHOOL IS OPEN TO STUDENTS FROM OTHER SCHOOLS. YOU MAY REGISTER WARDS WHO ARE NOT IN ST. BRIDGET‘S , OR PASS THE FORM ON TO INTERESTED FRIENDS & FAMILY.) Parents can return these forms in any one of three ways: 1. Cut out and fill the relevant forms from the St. Bridget‘s Post. These forms must be handed to the Head Teacher or Vice Principal (Institutional Affairs) at the primary school or college, respectively. 2. Complete the relevant forms by hand as in (1) above, scan ALL the pages of the form and send ALL the scanned copies by email attachment to our email submissions portal: [email protected]. Parents should note that a form is NOT deemed to have been received until an acknowledgement is received from this email address following the submission. 3. Send an email to [email protected] requesting electronic versions of these forms. We will send the forms as Microsoft Word or as fillable pdf files (let us know which format you prefer, the default is MS Word). Parents may then return the completed forms via email. Forms MUST be signed electronically to be accepted as valid. Forms are NOT deemed to have been submitted until an acknowledgement email is received from the submission portal. ALL ENROLMENT FORMS MUST BE RECEIVED BY JUNE 23rd. STUDENT BIO-DATA/HEALTH INFORMATION FORM (REQUIRED) SECTION A (STUDENT): Surname: _______________________________________________ First Name: _______________________________________________ Middle Name(s): _______________________________________________ Gender (Male or Female): ____________________ Date of Birth: Day: ___________ Month:_____________ Year:____________ Place of Birth: Town/City:_____________ State:________ Country:_________ Home Address: Street:______________________________________ Street: _____________________________________ City:________________ State:___________________ Mailing Address: Address 1:______________________________________ Address 2: _____________________________________ City:________________ State:______________________ Current Class/Form:___________ Class/Form Teacher: _________________ SECTION B (FAMILY): Father/Male Guardian Surname: Father/Male Guardian First Name: Profession/Occupation: Telephone/Mobile Number(s): _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ Email Address(es): _______________________________ _______________________________ Employer/Business (Name): ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ City:________________ State:_____________________ Mother/Female Guardian Surname: Mother/Female Guardian First Name: Profession/Occupation: Telephone/Mobile Number(s): Email Address(es): _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ Employer/Business (Name): ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ City:________________ State:______________________ Family Religion: _______________ Do You Have A Family Doctor? ___________ No. of Children In Family:______ Ages of Children In Family:___________________ Emergency Contact (Father, Mother or Both?) ________________________________ HEALTH INFORMATION SECTION C (STUDENT MEDICAL RECORD, SUPPLIED BY THE PARENTS): Please complete the table below indicating IF and WHEN your child referenced in the preceding page was inoculated against the indicated disease. Disease Yellow Fever Polio Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Chickenpox 28 Smallpox Hepatitis (A or B) Tuberculosis Tetanus Diphtheria Whooping Cough Meningitis Rotavirus Typhoid Sleeping Sickness River Blindness Yaws Malaria Has This Child EVER Been Innoculated Against This Disease (Yes/ No) Where Was This Child On What Date Was Has This Has ANYONE Innoculated? (City/ This Child Innoculated Child EVelse in your Innoculating Agency Against This Disease? ER Sufhousehold EVor Public Health Aufered From ER suffered thority) This Disfrom this disease (Yes/ ease (Yes/No)? No)? HEALTH INFORMATION (CONT’D) Please complete the table below indicating IF and WHEN your child/ward has ever suffered or does suffer from the indicated disorder or condition. Disorder/ Condition Sickle Cell Asthma Epileptic fits Seizures Heart Disease Diabetes Hypertension Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Depression Dyslexia Autism (Spectrum Disorder) Tourette‘s Syndrome Anxiety Disorder Leukemia Dental Caries Vision Impairment (due to retinopathy) Has This Child Where Was This EVER Been Child Diagnosed With Diagnosed This Condition? With This Dis- (City/Doctor or Medorder or Condiical Authority) tion (Yes/No)? When Was This Child FIRST Diagnosed With This Condition? How Many Does ANYTimes (ON A ONE else in MONTHLY your household BASIS) does suffer from this this condition condition manifest itself? (Yes/No)? Does your child suffer from ANY food or environmental allergies? (Please explain:) _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ Does your child suffer from ANY drug allergies? (Please explain:) _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ Is your child on medication for ANY disease or condition? (Please explain below CLEARLY indicating the nature and frequency of the medication): _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ Does your child have ANY disease or condition that we need to be made aware of ? (Please explain below CLEARLY indicating the nature & frequency of the condition): _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ SECTION D (PARENTAL CONSENT): 30 I hereby certify that I am the parent/legitimate guardian of the above-named student and that to the best of my knowledge the information provided above is true and accurate. By completing the information below, I give the St. Bridget‘s Schools permission to contact our indicated family doctor in the case of an emergency regarding my child/ward. Furthermore, I GIVE/DO NOT GIVE (delete whichever does NOT apply) my consent for the school to include my child/ward in the routine dental & vision examination program. I recognize that these exams are basic and that my child‘s healthcare remains my responsibility. I hold The St. Bridget‘s Schools blameless & without responsibility for these examinations or their outcome, which are rudimentary and purely advisory in nature. We agree to seek outside specialist advice for all medical decisions relating to our child. Name of Parent: Date: Signature: ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Family Doctor‘s Name:____________________________________ Name of Clinic/Hospital:___________________________________ Address:_________________________________________________ City:_________________ State:_____________ Country:________ Phone Number: ________________ Phone Number:______________ Email Address:_____________________________________________ Summer School—College & Primary School (Expression of Interest Form) This form enables parents to express interest in the participation of their children in summer school at St. Bridget‘s. The same form may be used for the college summer school as well as the primary school summer school. (see next page for details). This program runs from 4th—29th August and is open ANY student (not just St. Bridget‘s students) who might benefit from the program. Details of the courses are included in the St. Bridget’s Post. Interested parents may call The St. Bridget‘s Schools (0803 911 8928) or send email ([email protected]) for more details. This form must be received by the 23rd of June, 2014, to hold a spot for the indicated child. Each form applies to ONLY one child. SECTION A (STUDENT): Surname: _______________________________________________ First Name: _______________________________________________ Middle Name(s): _______________________________________________ Gender (Male or Female): ____________________ Date of Birth: Day: ___________ Month:_____________ Year:____________ Place of Birth: Town/City:_____________ State:________ Country:_________ Home Address: Mailing Address: Street:______________________________________ Street: _____________________________________ City:________________ State:___________________ Address 1:______________________________________ Address 2: _____________________________________ City:________________ State:______________________ School At End Of Last Year (Name):___________________________________ Address:__________________ City:_________________ State:___________ Phone No. of School (if available)_________________ Email Address:__________ Form/Class:___________ Class/Form Teacher‘s Name: ____________________ Position In Class During The Last Exams: __________ out of ______________ SECTION B (PARENTS): Parent/Guardian Surname: ____________________________________ Parent/Guardian First Name: _______________________________ Relationship To Student:_____________ Profession/Occupation:____________ Telephone/Mobile Number(s):________________________________________ Email Address(es):__________________________________________________ Employer/Business (Name): ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ City:________________ State:_____________________ SECTION C (COURSE SELECTION—COLLEGE ONLY): (Skip this section if registering for Summer School at the primary school. Simply sign below.) After reviewing the Summer School course outline (see page 16), tick (√) the top EIGHT courses you would like your child to participate in. You must pick a minimum of ONE and a maximum of THREE from each concentration. (Choices subject to final enrolment and availability.) Course Description Selection Humanities & Social Sciences 32 X Course Description Medical & Biological Arts Selec- Course tion Description X Engineering Arts & Crafts Politics & Social Activism In Nigeria Intro To Biotechnology Robotics & Microcontrollers A Walking History of Nigeria Sports Physiology & Fitness Database Programming Law Practicum Cosmetology & Beauty Web Design Priesthood Practicum Hair Dressing & Management Repair & Maintenance of Computers Medicine Practicum Intro to Product Development Digital Photography Dentistry Practicum Architecture Practicum Creative Writing Optometry Practicum Civil Engineering Practicum Cloth Weaving (Akwette) Public Health Practicum Chemical Engineering Practicum The Creative Arts Wood Carving (Ikot Ekpene) X Entrepreneurship X Selection Agric & Commercial Farming Practicum Intro To Digital Arts Starting Your Own Business Food Science & Nutrition Practicum Alternative Visual Arts Social Entrepreneurship Welding & Fabrication Practicum Intro To Film Making Environmental Management & Green Technologies Woodworking & Furniture Making Practicum Hospitality & Event Mgt. Name of Parent: Date: ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Signature: ______________________________________________ X FREE Introductory Computer/Tablet Class For Parents (Expression of Interest Form) As we teach our students more about-and with-computers, we recognize that parents need to keep pace with their children. Our report cards are now being sent electronically, parents can now check their children's progress online. St. Bridget‘s is offering a very quick introductory class to parents of students in the school so they can at least appreciate what computers (and tablets) can do for them as parents and as individuals. This class is FREE to ALL parents of students in the school—both the primary school and college. (ONLY parents, no substitutions or sit-ins allowed.) The dates for these introductory classes will be announced following the return of these forms from interested parents. Please complete the form and submit it by the indicated deadline. Name of St. Bridget‘s Student:____________________________________ Class/Form of St. Bridget‘s Student:_______________________________ Father/Male Guardian Surname: _______________________________ Father/Male Guardian First Name: _______________________________ Profession/Occupation: _______________________________ Telephone/Mobile Number(s): _______________________________ _______________________________ Email Address(es): _______________________________ _______________________________ Employer/Business (Name): ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ City:________________ State:_____________________ Mother/Female Guardian Surname: Mother/Female Guardian First Name: Profession/Occupation: Telephone/Mobile Number(s): Email Address(es): _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ Employer/Business (Name): ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ City:________________ State:______________________ PLEASE COMPLETE THE QUESTIONNAIRE ON THE NEXT PAGE AND SIGN BELOW BEFORE SENDING US THE FORM. Name of Parent: Date: Signature: ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Question Do you have a functioning computer (or laptop) at home? Question Answer Question Have you ever sent email by yourself (not through someone else)? Do you have a Yahoo, Google, or Hotmail (or similar free) email account? How many times a week do you check your email? Have you ever used the internet for browsing? Do you own a flash drive? If you own a tablet, did you buy it yourself or did someone buy it for you (maybe as a gift)? Have you ever had a video conference online? Have you ever used an internet café? If so, how frequently? Do you own a smartphone? Did you buy it yourself or did someone buy it for you? Have you ever had any training in using the internet? Do you have a DVD or VCD player at home? Is there internet access at your home? Have you ever used the internet to make a phone call? Roughly how many times do you send text messages (SMS) each day? How about phone calls? When would be most convenient to schedule this free class (day/time)? Are you currently enrolled in school or some kind of formal training ongoing or program? Pls indicate. What was the last book you bought? Was it for you or someone else? Where did you buy it? What kind of internet access, if any, do you have at home? (Satellite/VSAT, cable, dialup, through your phone, etc.) How about a printer? How about a scanner? Do you own a tablet (e.g. iPad or Samsung or other) device? If so, what brand or type? 34 Answer How about at your workplace (even if you don‘t use it yourself at work)? Do you use a computer at work? Do you use the internet at work? Have you ever had any training in the use of computers? If so, please explain briefly. Have you ever used a flash drive? Answer School Admission—Preschool/Primary/College (Expression of Interest Form) Do you know someone who would like to attend St. Bridget‘s? Simply complete the form below, hand it in at the school (either one of our campuses), call us to come and pick it up (0803 911 8928), or scan & forward it by email ([email protected]). We will contact you and begin the evaluation/enrolment process. One form per child, please. SECTION A (STUDENT): Surname: _______________________________________________ First Name: _______________________________________________ Middle Name(s): _______________________________________________ Gender (Male or Female): ____________________ Date of Birth: Day: ___________ Month:_____________ Year:____________ Place of Birth: Town/City:_____________ State:________ Country:_________ Home Address: Street:______________________________________ Street: _____________________________________ City:________________ State:___________________ Mailing Address: Address 1:______________________________________ Address 2: _____________________________________ City:________________ State:______________________ Current or Last School (Name):________________________________________ Address:__________________ City:_________________ State:___________ School Phone No.:_________________ Email Address:_____________________ Current Form/Class:_____________ Position In (Last) Class: ____ Out of_____ Have You Ever Applied For Admission To St. Bridget‘s (Yes/No)?_______________ Have Any Relatives Attended, Or In Attendance At, St. Bridget‘s? (Yes/No)_________ Provide Details of Relative (Name/Year/Attended), If Applicable: ________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Which Are You Applying To (Preschool, Primary Or College)?_______________ SECTION B (PARENTS): Parent/Guardian Surname: ____________________________________ Parent/Guardian First Name: _______________________________ Relationship To Student:_____________ Profession/Occupation:____________ Telephone/Mobile Number(s):________________________________________ Email Address(es):__________________________________________________ Employer/Business (Name): ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ City:________________ State:_____________________ Name of Parent: ______________________________________________ Date: ______________________________________________ Signature: ______________________________________________ 36 l s! l A nt o e T d n tu o o sS S ’ g t n dge i m ri o C .B St www.oyivo.com Our Anthems & Pledges St. Bridget’s Primary School Anthem St. Bridget’s College Anthem St. Bridget‘s Primary School The school of our great pride Our school of joy and brighter hope Let us now glorify the Lord! We love you our Alma Mater St. Bridget‘s College Fount of true learning deep and Sound is St. Bridget‘s College Let birds and trees and lilies sing The praises of our school so dear Our school of joy and brighter hope Let us now glorify the Lord! Character and learning and excellence Propelling us to our pride of place So our God and nation rejoice St. Bridget‘s Primary School Teach us to love and honour thee Our motto we shall learn to keep Character and learning we shall see! 38 Wherever we may chance to go God bless you dear Alma mater St. Bridget‘s College. We thank thee Lord for St. Bridget‘s, For she is standing in thy light, Help her to grow from strength to strength That we may glorify the Lord! St. Bridget’s Primary School Pledge St. Bridget’s College Pledge I pledge to St. Bridget‘s my School I pledge to myself and all Bridgelites To be punctual to school always That wherever I may go To do my home work at home every day I shall be a true ambassador of my College To be diligent, obedient Always excelling in character and learning And to speak the truth at all times And leadership by example So help me God. So help me God. ELEVEN (11) GOOD REASONS YOU MAY NOT WANT TO SEND YOUR CHILD TO ST. BRIDGET’S PRE-SCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN 1. You Never Knew We Had A Pre-School Program. 2. You Never Knew That We Have The Absolute Best Pre-School Program In Aba. 3. You Do Not Want Your Child To Get A Head-Start In Life By Having The Best Early Education. 4. You Do Not Know That Much Of Your Child’s Educational Performance IN LIFE Is Determined By The Foundation They Receive In Pre-School. 5. You Do Not Know How Very Affordable Our Pre-School Program Is. 6. You Do Not Want Your Child To Be Exposed To The Computers, Games and Modern Learning Tools We Use Daily With Our Young Ones. 7. You Do Not Want Your Child To Enjoy The Calm, Serene & Stimulating Environment We Maintain In Our AwardWinning School. 8. You Did Not Realize That In The 25+ Years We Have Been In Existence, We Have Learned One Or Two Things About Teaching Children (Including Those With Special Needs). 9. You Do Not Believe Quality Education Can Be Affordable; You Would Rather Pay A Lot Of Money And NOT Get The Quality Education Your Wonderful Child Deserves. 10.You Believe The Fact That We Can Educate and Groom Your Child From PreSchool Until They Enter University Is A Very Bad Thing. 11.The Fact That WE Found YOU And Put This Document In Your Hands Means That We Care TOO Much About Your Child’s Education – And So You Are Angry About That! Call Us Today To Schedule A Visit To Your Child’s Future School—(0803) 911 8928 You may email us—[email protected], visit our web site—www.st-bridgets.org or come see us - St. Bridget’s Drive, Abayi, Aba. www.st-bridgets.org Useful Numbers: Primary: +234 703 862 7195 College: +234 703 862 7179 Inquiries: + 234 803 911 8928 Emergency: +234 810 254 6822 Useful Email Addresses [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] http://twitter.com/StBridgetsAba “The St. Bridget’s Schools, Aba” Physical: St. Bridget’s College College Road 40 OR St. Bridget’s Primary School St. Bridget’s Drive Abayi, Aba. Abia State. Nigeria Beyond Learning! Mail: P.O. Box 3421 Aba, Abia State Nigeria Liaison (US): P.O. Box 7251 Silver Spring, MD 20907 + 1 888 506 3265 Designed & Printed By Oyivo Publishing 817 Silver Spring Avenue, Suite 200 Silver Spring, MD 20910 USA Tel: + 1 202 370 6165 www.oyivo.com [email protected] Printed In The United States of America. © The St. Bridget‘s Schools. 2014