Term 1

Inside this issue

1. Principal's Message

As we conclude the first term of the 2024-2025 academic year, I am overwhelmed with pride and gratitude for the incredible progress we have achieved together. Our journey has begun with tremendous enthusiasm, and I sincerely thank every parent for their unwavering support.

This year, our enrollment has surged from 105 students last year to 180, representing an increasingly diverse community with families from Kenya, Uganda, Canada, Syria, South Sudan, Rwanda, DR Congo, Burundi, the USA, India, the UK, Liberia, South Africa, and Egypt, among others. This growth reflects your trust in our mission and inspires us to continue delivering excellence.

Our unique hybrid program of the Canadian and Cambridge education systems is thriving, fostering individual talents while nurturing collaboration. It is heartening to see our students flourish in an environment that cultivates critical life skills and prepares them to excel as both individuals and team players.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated teachers, whose adaptability and innovation have been instrumental in delivering a transformative learning experience.

In response to valuable feedback, we have enriched our curriculum by introducing Traditional Dance and Moral Values, ensuring our students connect with cultural and ethical foundations. Additionally, extracurricular activities such as football, basketball, piano, and Francophonie productions have brought excitement and engagement, all offered at no extra cost.

Looking ahead, Term 2 will run from November 26, 2024, to March 18, 2025, with further enhancements to support holistic development. I am confident that together, we will continue inspiring and shaping future leaders.

Thank you for being an essential part of the High Gate International Academy family

Warm regards,
Mr. Michel Shamamba
PrincipalHigh Gate International Academy

2. Orientation Week

August 2024 marked the beginning of an exciting new academic year at High Gate International Academy. The week commenced with the Welcome Back Staff Meeting held on August 6th, bringing together all teachers filled with curiosity, enthusiasm, and energy. It was a joyful occasion where returning and new staff members reconnected, sharing experiences and stories from their one-month holiday.

The week continued with comprehensive Teachers’ Induction Sessions, aimed at equipping educators with the tools and knowledge to make the year successful. This was followed by a dedicated period for planning and preparation, during which teachers collaborated in departmental groups to analyze curriculum objectives. Together, they worked on curriculum mapping, schemes of work, short-term plans, and the development of additional learning and teaching materials. These efforts ensured a seamless and enriching learning journey for the students.

2.1 The First Day of School: August 21st

The first day of school was nothing short of a celebration. The vibrant and colorful atmosphere set the tone for the year ahead. Families accompanied their children to the campus, creating an exciting space where students met their teachers, classmates, and school leaders for the first time.

The school grounds, meticulously cleaned and prepared, provided a welcoming and conducive environment for learning. Students eagerly explored the different corners of the campus, discovering classrooms and specialized areas designed to inspire curiosity and engagement.

Parents and students collected scholastic materials and textbooks, setting the stage for a successful academic year. The sense of anticipation and joy was palpable as everyone embraced the beginning of a new journey at High Gate International Academy.

3. Teachers’ heartfelt notes

Warm Welcome to the New School Year

Christian

Dear Students and Families,

A new school year means new opportunities to learn, grow, and shine. At High Gate International Academy, we cultivate strong values alongside academic knowledge to ensure every child grows into a thoughtful and confident leader.

Thank you for choosing us to nurture your child’s journey.

Eduige

A Partnership for Success

Sandrine

Our play pedagogy has continued to foster the holistic development of our children across the five essential domains: Linguistic, Cognitive, Motor, Social, and Affective.

The commitment and adaptability of our dedicated teachers have been instrumental in integrating these standards into their pedagogical approaches, ensuring that our students are well-prepared for future academic success.

The collaborative activities and shared responsibilities have further honed their teamwork skills, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual support among peers.

Paola

Celebrating New Beginnings

Philbert

Dear Students and Parents,

The start of a new school year is like opening a book filled with blank pages waiting to be written.

Here at High Gate, we aim to fill those pages with joy, discovery, and accomplishments.

Thank you for choosing us as the foundation of your child's success. We are honored to walk this journey with you.

Magerha

A Place for Every Dream

Gentil

Dear Parents,

High Gate International Academy is a place where every child's dreams take root and flourish.

By choosing us, you’ve given your child the gift of limitless possibilities in a safe, stimulating, and supportive environment.

Let’s work hand in hand to help your child grow into a confident, capable, and compassionate individual.

Annick

A Year of New Horizons

Esther

Dear High Gate Families,

Welcome to a new school year full of promise! At High Gate International Academy, we nurture learners to think critically, act responsibly, and lead with confidence.

This year also marks a significant step toward inclusion as we welcome children with special educational needs.

Together, we are building a bright future for every student. Thank you for being part of this exceptional journey!

Aline

Building Lifelong Learners

Sandra

Dear Parents and Students,

High Gate International Academy is more than a school; it is a vibrant community where learning never stops and growth is a continuous journey.

By enrolling your child here, you have chosen a path that nurtures the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally. Let’s make this year the beginning of endless possibilities for your child’s future.

Moise

A Bright Path Ahead

Kevin

Dear Students and Parents,

Welcome to a new academic year at High Gate International Academy! Here, every child’s potential is valued, and every talent is nurtured.

Thank you for trusting us to guide your child on this bright path to success. Together, we’ll create a year full of learning, laughter, and growth.

Cécile

Your Child, Our Commitment

Gad

Dear Families,

At High Gate International Academy, we are dedicated to creating a loving and dynamic environment where every child feels seen, safe, heard, and supported.

By choosing us, you’ve chosen a team committed to your child’s academic success and personal growth and holistic development.

Let’s make this year unforgettable!

Fiacre

Where Excellence Meets Creativity

Nicole

Dear Parents,

Thank you for entrusting your child’s education to us.

At High Gate International Academy, we blend academic excellence with creativity and innovation to prepare your child for a bright future.

Let’s work together to ensure this year is full of exciting achievements and happy memories.

Aba. Emmanuel

Rooted in Values, Growing Toward Success

Martine

Dear Students and Families,

A new school year means new opportunities to learn, grow, and shine.

At High Gate International Academy, we cultivate strong values alongside academic knowledge to ensure every child grows into a thoughtful and confident leader.

Thank you for choosing us to nurture your child’s journey.

Emmanuel

Partners in Your Child’s Success

Simeon

Dear High Gate Families,

We are thrilled to welcome you to another year of learning and discovery! At High Gate International Academy, we believe that education is a partnership between school, students, and parents.

Together, we’ll help your child develop the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to succeed in life.

Dorrah

4. Preschool Insights

As we conclude Term One of the second academic year at High Gate International Academy, I am delighted to highlight the significant milestones achieved in our Nursery section. The successful integration of the Canadian educational system with Quebec standards has continued to lay a robust foundation for our learners' academic and personal growth. This year, our preschool educators have demonstrated remarkable progress in their understanding and implementation of this program, which is reflected in the enriched learning experiences provided to our young learners.

Our partnership with Canada remains a cornerstone of this achievement. It was further strengthened by the second visit of our esteemed nursery curriculum mentors and trainers from Quebec, Madam Josée Duquette and Mr. Allain. Their presence on our premises from late August through mid-September 2024 was invaluable. Over three weeks, they conducted comprehensive induction sessions with our preschool teachers and lower primary French educators, equipping them with advanced strategies to implement the curriculum effectively. Their mentorship has been instrumental in enhancing our teachers' proficiency and fostering a collaborative, innovative teaching environment.

The impact of this curriculum on our Nursery students has been profound. Our play-based pedagogy, grounded in the holistic development of the five domains Linguistic, Cognitive, Motor, Social, and Affective has empowered learners to navigate their academic journeys with confidence and enthusiasm. This program not only equips students with a strong foundation in French but also prepares them seamlessly for the Cambridge courses in primary school. The transition of our Nursery graduates to primary education is now notably smooth, as they excel in both linguistic versatility and cognitive adaptability.

My heartfelt thanks go to our dedicated teachers, whose adaptability and commitment have made this journey successful. Your efforts have cultivated a dynamic, stimulating learning environment that nurtures both academic excellence and personal growth among our students.

Looking ahead, we are excited to build on these achievements as we continue this academically enriching journey. Together, we remain committed to fostering a culture of excellence and lifelong learning. Wishing everyone a joyful festive season and a restful break.

Finally, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to our graduating students. You have made history as the first promotion of its kind in High Gate International Academy's life. Your dedication, perseverance, and success are a testament to your potential and the bright futures that await you.

5. Primary section Highlights

At High Gate International Academy, we are proud to share the remarkable progress and achievements within our Primary section. This division has become a vibrant and thriving hub for learners, welcoming a diverse cohort of students from across Rwanda and around the world, including Africa, America, Europe, and Asia. The growing enrollment reflects the trust that parents place in our unique educational approach and the commitment of our educators.

The structure of our working system has transformed what once seemed impossible into a normal culture of excellence at High Gate. From our very first academic year, we have prioritized creating a dynamic learning environment that empowers students to take charge of their education. This culture is deeply rooted in our educators' dedication, as they consistently engage in intensive professional development, regular training sessions, and well-being programs. For our teachers, their profession is more than a career – it is a passion that drives them to foster accountability, inquiry, and self-driven learning among their students.

Our hybrid program, which is unique and specific to High Gate International Academy, integrates modern educational expectations with a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning. Additionally, diagnostic tests conducted during the first two weeks of the academic year have sharpened our system by identifying the strengths and needs of students. This allows us to design targeted strategies to promote high performance and excellence throughout their learning journey with the dedicated teachers of High Gate. This approach encourages students to become researchers, innovators, and self-motivated individuals, equipping them with the skills to achieve the highest caliber of academic excellence. The results of this method are evident in the remarkable growth of our Primary section.

This academic year, we are proud to announce the expansion of our Primary classes. We have successfully opened a Grade 6 classroom and two Grade 1 classrooms to accommodate the increasing demand from new enrollments. As more parents recognize the value of our program, registrations continue to rise. Our well-prepared facilities and strategic planning ensure that we can support this growth without compromising the quality of education provided to each student.

At High Gate, we strive to bring out the best version of every child in a short span of time. By maintaining high standards, fostering a culture of accountability, and enabling students to take ownership of their learning, we are shaping the leaders and innovators of tomorrow. We look forward to continuing this journey of excellence and witnessing the transformative impact of our Primary section on our students’ futures.

6. Students Leadership at High Gate International Academy

At High Gate International Academy, we believe that nurturing leadership skills from a young age is essential in shaping responsible, confident, and civic-minded individuals. To this end, we have launched our Students Leadership Program this term to actively involve students in their school’s life and help them develop as future leaders.

The Leadership Initiative

The process began with all students being introduced to the key elements of the school’s policies regarding the Student Council, alongside lessons on the objectives and significance of leadership within the school context. This foundational step emphasized the importance of leadership, democracy, collaboration, and responsibility.

Step 1: Classroom Leaders

The first phase was the election of classroom leaders. Each class, from Grade 1 to Grade 6, conducted democratic elections where students voted for two captains to represent their class. This provided a hands-on experience in leadership selection and participation in democratic practices.

Step 2: Campaigns for Higher Leadership Positions

The second phase opened the opportunity for higher leadership roles, including the positions of Head Boy and Head Girl. Eligible candidates were selected from among the classroom captains of Grades 4, 5, and 6. This phase saw students engage in spirited campaigns, presenting their visions and ideas for the school.

Following a strong and competitive campaign, Believer Mpamo was elected as the Head Boy, and Lucky Ashimwe Ineza as the Head Girl, by the collective votes of all primary students.

Leadership Oath

After being elected, the Head Boy and Head Girl were given time to reflect on their responsibilities. Teachers provided them with guidance and orientation based on the school’s leadership policies. Finally, they were sworn in during an official ceremony attended by their peers, teachers, school administrators, and family members.

Importance of this Initiative

By introducing leadership roles at an early age, High Gate International Academy aims to achieve several key objectives:
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1. Fostering Leadership Skills: Early exposure to leadership roles helps students build confidence, communication skills, and decision-making abilities, preparing them for future challenges.
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2. Promoting Democratic Principles: Through the election process, students gain firsthand experience in democratic practices, including the importance of fairness, respect for others’ opinions, and the value of every vote.
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3. Encouraging Civic Responsibility: Leadership roles instill a sense of accountability and responsibility, helping students develop a deeper connection to their school and community.
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4. Nurturing Patriotism and Collaboration: Students learn the importance of working together for the common good, respecting others, and contributing positively to their environment.
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5. Understanding Governance: Engaging students in campaigns, speeches, and the electoral process teaches them about governance and equips them with skills they can apply in broader societal contexts.By empowering students to take part in their school’s leadership, High Gate International Academy is not only preparing them for personal success but also instilling in them the values of good citizenship, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world..

7. Triumphs and Partnerships For Term one

Term One has been a remarkable journey, filled with achievements that reflect the energy and enthusiasm of our students throughout the school. Here are some of the key highlights:

Special Visit from Canada

We had the honor of hosting Mr. Alexis M. Bihira, Trade Commissioner from the High Commission of Canada. He delivered an inspiring message from the Canadian Embassy about strengthening partnerships between our institutions and reaffirmed support for our vision.

A Visit from France Embassy

High Gate proudly welcomed Sarah Delbois, Attachée de coopération pour le français at the French Embassy in Rwanda. Her visit included the submission of books to our young learners, enhancing our library and resources for French language education.

Literacy Competition Participation

Our students enthusiastically participated in the OIF’s literary production competition, "Concours Refaire le Monde", showcasing their creativity and ideas on reshaping the world.

Partnership Plaquettes

a. We received a prestigious recognition plaque from Cambridge Assessment International Education, celebrating our long-term partnership.
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b.Another plaque was awarded by France Éducation International for our DELF-DALF French certification program, underscoring our commitment to high-quality language education.

Well-Being at School

To enhance student well-being and make break times more enjoyable, we installed a large trampoline on campus. It has quickly become a favorite among students, adding excitement and fun to their day.

As part of our Canadian-Quebec partnership,

professional development sessions were conducted by Madame Jose and Mr. Allain, focusing on enriching educators’ skills from nursery to primary levels. These sessions emphasized innovative teaching methods, classroom management strategies, and child-centered approaches. The training provided valuable insights to enhance the quality of education at High Gate. This collaboration reflects our commitment to continuous professional growth. It was an inspiring experience for all participants.

8. Curriculum Evening

The Curriculum Evening for the first term of High Gate International Academy’s second academic year was a resounding success, drawing a significant number of parents eager to explore the school’s comprehensive educational programs. The event provided detailed insights into the incentive aspects of the curriculum, the key strands of each program, and the innovative teaching and learning methodologies employed.

Parents gained an understanding of the assessment models and the strategic use of performance feedback to enhance student outcomes. Active discussions highlighted their enthusiasm to engage more deeply in their children’s education. The evening underscored the importance of collaboration between the school and families to ensure academic excellence and holistic development.

9. CAT-1 and CAT 2

The CAT-1 and CAT-2 assessments this year were executed with great precision, showing notable improvements resulting from targeted intervention lessons. These sessions enabled teachers to identify individual strengths and areas in need of improvement, allowing for personalized support tailored to each student's needs.

This initiative has been a success and is on track to become a central element of our educational culture. The ongoing integration of CAT-1 and CAT-2 will strengthen our students' academic foundations and enhance the school's performance throughout the year. The diverse backgrounds of the new students this year have provided an excellent opportunity to assess and identify areas where additional support is needed, particularly for those who have recently enrolled.

For many new parents, the CAT-1 and CAT-2 assessments presented a challenge until they received clear explanations of the system at High Gate International Academy. Unlike traditional assessments, these tests are conducted without revision time, assessing multiple units combined in one paper. Students are required to respond to a standard exam under strict time constraints, a format quite different from their previous experiences with unlimited time. Furthermore, the assessment questions are designed to challenge students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, requiring analysis, investigation, and estimation before drawing conclusions. This approach initially posed a challenge for new students, but with a greater understanding of the system, both students and parents have adapted well to the process.

10. Solidarity Festival Launch at High Gate International Academy

The Solidarity Festival at High Gate is an initiative aimed at fostering a sense of empathy, compassion, and community among our students. This annual campaign teaches students the importance of understanding and supporting others, especially those facing challenges. By emphasizing empathy, we help students develop into socially responsible individuals who are aware of the needs of others and motivated to contribute positively to society.

The campaign, launched on November 20th, will run until December 20th, culminating in our Christmas celebrations. Throughout the month, students engage in a variety of activities designed to build connections with less fortunate children from our neighboring communities. These activities include sharing snacks, playing games, and having fun together. Additionally, students contribute to the well-being of these children by collecting donations to assist them during the holiday season.

This month-long campaign highlights the importance of solidarity and teaches students the joy of giving. It is an opportunity for our school community to come together, support one another, and celebrate the spirit of generosity, making a meaningful impact on both the students and the children they help.

11. End of Term 1 Exams and Results

The conclusion of Term 1 exams marked a moment of combined engagement between parents, students, and teachers, showcasing the strong partnership that contributes to the success of our students. This period has not only provided a clear insight into how assessments are conducted at High Gate International Academy, but it has also played a crucial role in empowering students with self-confidence and fostering an autonomous spirit in their learning.

The results reflect significant improvements in academic performance, thanks to the dedication and hard work of both students and teachers. The collaborative efforts have enhanced students' ability to approach learning with greater independence and responsibility, leading to notable progress across all grade levels.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our students for their outstanding achievements, to our teachers for their invaluable guidance, and to our parents for their unwavering support throughout this term. Your collective commitment continues to make a meaningful difference in the academic journey of our students.

12. A loop on second Term

We take immense pride in the accomplishments of our High Gate students during Term 1 and deeply appreciate the collaborative efforts of our parents, who have actively engaged with the school management and supported various initiatives. As we approach the Christmas holidays, we are excited to announce the introduction of new elements designed to enhance our school’s overall operations. These enhancements will positively impact academics, behavior, social events, and the entire teaching and learning experience.

Starting December 9th, we will launch our After-School Activities Program, which serves two key purposes. First, we will offer remedial classes for primary students who need extra support after Term 1, ensuring they receive the help they need to improve academically. Second, for students who are performing well, we will provide opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities such as the football club, basketball club, music club, and Francophonie productions.

Further details about this program can be obtained at the secretary’s desk.

We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a joyful start to the New Year in 2025!

13. Gallery

14. School Calendar

+250 79 89 80 340

info@highgateinternational.com

KG 669 St Gasabo District, Gisozi

POB 6790

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