ESC Newsletter

Issue 2 September 2014 Coming up this month: Welcome from the BSHS Head  1-3 October: Chrysta Garnett, Head of British Secondary and High School Section Six Arts Festival  2, 16, 23 October: Dear Parents this global event here: components and use of Google My thanks to the many parents http://www.tes.co.uk/ Apps, they are an excellent Parent Evenings who showed their support for article.aspx? learning tool for the classroom. It signifies another first for TES,  24 October: two very well attended BSHS sto- events this month: the Parents ryCode=6436633#.VB6lpfmSx as we are the first school in Tabitha Pop Idol Information Evening and the 8E to take delivery of this H4 UCC Evening. It always new kit and I look forward to  30 October: gives me great pleasure to seeing what our students can Drama Evening meet you at these events and do with them in the coming see how engaged and support- months.  31 October: ive our parents are of our Halloween Disco students’ academic pursuits. Finally, members of the Stu- For parents of the new Year dent Council will be leading a 7s, please note that Parents celebration of World Teach- Evening is coming up on Octo- er’s Day on Friday, 3rd October ber 2nd. We look forward to next week to show their ap- seeing you there. preciation of the wonderful work that teachers do every Inside this issue: This month the BSHS put TES day. It’s a privilege to have the firmly on the global map with opportunity to teach young our contributions to the people and shape their growing IB 4 Teaching Moment in Time The arrival of our new minds, interests and characters Teambuilding project, coordinated by the Chromebook laptops this and it is a role that requires a UK’s biggest educational publi- week has caused some excite- certain amount of stamina and University 6 cation The Times Educational ment in the BSHS. They are dedication. I would also like to Counsellor Supplement. The only school in now available for teacher and take this opportunity to join Taiwan to take part, we were student use in lessons, along the Student Council in thanking delighted to be commended with more new Samsung Gal- all of the teachers at the ESC Science News 8 participants in this initiative. axy tablets. With 8+ hours of who do such a great job. See how we contributed to battery life, their lightweight

ECA Fair 11

HS 22 Teambuilding

Sports News 24

Sports Day 30

And much more! Page 2 ESC Newsletter

Challenges for German Section Students

Emmanuel Fritzen, Head of German Section

Taipei European School has a English as the language of in- both systems. long history of close coopera- struction. tion between the German and In Klasse 10, our students take the High School sections, as In order to provide a dual both examinations: the Ger- students enter the last four award for the students of the man National Examination, years of secondary education. German Section, we success- with German as the language We have a unique programme fully applied to the German of instruction, and the IGCSE, that is not replicated any- government in 2007 to run a with English as the language of where else in the world. special programme. In Klasse instruction. This dual qualifica- 5-8, we got permission to let tion is quite challenging for Emmanuel Fritzen Since the German Section of our students participate in our students, but it really the European School is integrated lessons in Art, Mu- prepares them to be global an officially recognised sic and P.E., which are taught citizens. All German students ‘German School Abroad’ and in English by native speakers need to have German as a first is financially supported by the from the British Secondary language and English as either federal government, it needs and High School Section. Us- first or second Language. In to fully meet all standards set ing this approach, the students addition, they need to com- by the ‘Standing Conference can achieve a very high lan- plete either French or Chi- of Ministers of Education and guage proficiency in English, in nese at foreign language stand- Cultural Affairs of the Länder’. addition to German as the ard. This means that all German language of instruction in the students must sit the national German Section. Thus they are fully prepared German examination in Klasse to join any international or 10 (equivalent to Y11 or H2 In Klasse 9 and 10, we ob- German high school pro- or 2nde). tained special permission from gramme in Klasse 11 and 12 the German government to (H3 and H4). Most of our However, parents of students merge the German National students continue with the IB in the German section fre- Curriculum with the IGCSE Diploma programme at Taipei quently get new job opportu- standards of the University of European School, with Ger- nities in cities and countries Cambridge. German students man as Language A in Group where no German education are enrolled in both sections 1.Thus all German Section is available. This means that – the German Section and the students leave Taipei Europe- students must also be pre- British Secondary and High an School with the Bilingual IB pared to transfer from a Ger- School Section – and cover a Diploma. man school programme to an combined curriculum that international programme, with meets the requirements of

Graduation ceremony for Klasse 10 students, after successfully passing the German National Examination Issue 2 Page 3

Message from the Deputy Head

Sonya Papps, Deputy Head It was wonderful to see so universities of their choice. model. We wish Ms Flora Sung many H4 students and their Similar information evenings and her team all the best for parents at the University Appli- will be held for other year what promises to be an action- cations Information Evening. groups throughout this year. packed and rewarding experi- The final year of IB is high ence for all participants. Next week the CLC Depart- stakes for students and the On 29th October, the ESC ment, in cooperation with the applications process can be an Sports Day will make a come- Asia-Pacific Chinese Language added stress. Mr Shull’s talk back! After a few years’ hiatus, Teacher Association gave an overview of what H4 ESC students will once again (APCLTA), will for the first students can expect this year; have the opportunity to partici- time host the Six Arts Acade- offering sage advice on how to pate in a range of track and my. From 1st-3rd October, 119 tackle applications to universi- field events for House Points. students hailing from schools ties in the USA, UK and around We’ve been fortunate to se- across the region will partici- the globe. Our H4 cohorts are cure the Taipei Arena for the pate in an exciting range of enthusiastic and committed and day and plans are well under- learning activities reflecting the we are confident they will re- way to make the day exciting ancient Confucian education ceive pleasing offers from the and fun for all – GO MISTRAL!

Every Day Counts James Woodall, Assistant Head 90% is usually seen as being a equivalent to half a year of sions when students take a day fantastic percentage. Most of us missed education. Statistics off to revise for a test, would be very happy with 90% show that students with 90% students miss a deadline and on our report card. However, attendance only have a 34.7% work at home to catch up, or when it comes to attendance, chance of gaining five A-C families decide to take a trip 90% is actually not very good at grades at GCSE level. By raising during school time. all. There has been a lot of attendance to 93%, the per- These all count as days away research done on attendance centage increases from 34.7% from school and have a huge and exam result statistics and a to 60.4%, which shows how impact on learning and can direct correlation has been important the extra days in disadvantage your child in the found between poor attend- school are. future. We urge students to ance and poor results. Obviously, people unfortunate- really consider their attendance 90% attendance is equal to ly can fall ill. If students are ill, it record, as it would be a shame nineteen school days missed. is important that they stay at to be disadvantaged before This is the equivalent to ap- home to rest, recover and not even sitting down in the exam proximately four weeks of infect other students in class. hall. Every day in school counts, missed school. 90% attendance As a school we totally support as every day is packed with over five years of school is this. However, there are occa- learning opportunities.

Parent-Teacher Meetings Mark your Daisy Rana, Assistant Head Calendar!

Primary to Secondary school th With the term now in full take place on Thursday, 16 October 2 swing, it is time for us to in past weeks. This progress October from 11:30 am to Year 7 share information about your report will be followed by 7:00 pm and all teachers of Parent-Teacher child’s progress through re- Parent-Teacher meetings on Year 8 and 9 students will be nd Meetings ports and Parent-Teacher Thursday, 2 October, from available to meet with you to

meetings. These meetings will 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm. This face discuss your child’s progress October 16 happen soon for Key Stage 3 -to-face meeting will allow you and to answer any questions Year 8 & 9 students. to meet each of your child’s that you may have regarding teachers and to discuss areas their academic achievement. Parent-Teacher Year 7 students will take where your child is making Meetings home a ‘Settling in’ report on If you have any further ques- th great progress, along with Friday, 26 September. This focused targets for develop- tions regarding Parent- report is written by the Form ment. Teacher meetings or student Tutor only and will give you reports, please do not hesitate an overview of the transition After half term, Year 8 and 9 to contact me. your child has made from Parent-Teacher meetings will Page 4 ESC Newsletter

IB Teambuilding – Induction and Focus Day

Darren Latchford, IB Coordinator

For their annual teambuilding breathing, in order to centre It is a key focus area for the IB day this year, H3 and H4 stu- themselves and remain calm at the moment and they are dents focused on what it means when things get difficult (a skill bringing in more and more to be IB students and how to we hope they remember when measures to combat this prob- get the best out of their diploma they are sitting mock and final lem. Their zero tolerance ap- or course programme. exams this school year). proach to what they term ‘academic misconduct’ is not Our H4s are at a crucial stage in The next activity, led by Mr new though and students need their two-year course and we Peswani, was designed to give to take what they learned from felt that a day during which they students some tips on being Mr Cornes’ session to their were allowed to focus on as- successful in oral presentations. other IB work and assignments pects of their IB programme, A sizeable chunk of Diploma to make sure that they are not which they ordinarily manage in assessment is done orally – the caught out. Students have had their study time, was what they Language A Individual Oral previous sessions on academic needed. Presentations, Further Oral honesty and this session was Activities and Individual Oral designed to give practical strate- We designed the H4 IB Focus Commentaries; the Language B gies to address this issue. In this Day, as we do with all of our IB Individual Orals; the presenta- activity, our students showed activities, along the lines of the tion aspect of the Science integrity and honesty in their Learner Profile, in order to Group 4 project and the Theory work – what the Learner Profile remind students of the various of Knowledge final presentation. terms as being principled. aspects of the ten attributes These can be a source of anxie- (shown in italics below) which ty for some students. Many H4 students were also given an they embody on a daily basis students commented that they opportunity to direct their own and to try to get them to re- now have some clear strategies learning by working on a subject member to make sure they are for managing their anxiety levels of their own choice – something living all ten equally in their and for speaking fluently and they had planned to bring in and everyday lives. confidently to their peers and for which they could receive when being recorded for assess- some support from a teacher. The day began with our stu- ment by the IB. In this activity, Students worked on their Ex- dents being balanced – possibly they were communicators. tended Essay, university applica- the attribute they neglect the tions and Internal Assessments most when the pressure of These sessions were followed for a subject they chose, being deadlines and assessments is on. by two workshops with a more reflective, knowledgeable, inquirers The Learner Profile encourages academic focus. Mr Cornes led a and thinkers. students to pay attention to session on academic referencing their physical selves, making for the Extended Essay – some- The day ended with some fun sure that they eat well and get thing very practical, as the first collaboration and competition. some exercise in between stud- draft deadline was last Monday. Mr Wong’s famous games ses- ying. Our balanced activity on This activity stressed the im- sion was designed to build rap- Focus Day was yoga and we portance of academic honesty port and to get students outside were very lucky (thanks to the and acknowledging the views of in the fresh air. In these games, help of Mr Labuschagne and Ms others using the conventions they were open-minded, caring Billante) to have an experienced expected by the IB. In the mod- and risk-takers. yogi come in to school to teach ern world, where information is our students some practical so accessible to all, it is im- My sincere thanks to the teach- moves and poses that they can portant that the intellectual ers involved in planning and practise in their own time at copyright of others is shown in delivering this successful day – home. They also focused on any work that students produce. and to the students for their Issue 2 Page 5

active participation. and I was particularly pleased to My thanks to all the staff who see new friendships form and were involved in both the Focus H3 are at a very different stage lots of genuine caring between Day and the Induction Weekend of their IB studies. In fact they members of this particularly (not mentioned above were are only just starting out on this impressive group of young peo- others who contributed such a life-changing journey. Keeping in ple. lot in leading groups of students mind that they are new to a and getting involved in the activ- fairly complex course of study Late afternoon and evening ities, namely Mr Bousfield, Ms and a couple of them are new in activities focused on the IB and Liang, Ms Hsu and Mr Wong). the year group (and that collab- gave students a chance to really This was a very successful induc- oration between students is vital engage with the principles and tion trip and our students con- all the way through the course), practices of the programme ducted themselves really well – we decided (like last year) to they are embarked upon and they were consistently respect- take the whole year group away really do some critical thinking. ful, they participated in absolute- to Longmen Outward Bound Mr Lee, our Creativity, Action ly everything with enthusiasm (near Fulong Beach) for a range and Service (CAS) Co- and confidence, they were crea- of teambuilding and IB-related ordinator, led two sessions tive in their ideas, responsible activities. which explained the thinking for themselves and others and, behind the CAS programme and when the sun was hot and they We actually began the IB Induc- what the students are expected had been kayaking for quite a tion event here at school by to do in order to complete it few hours, they kayaked on, considering the end: asking stu- successfully. One workshop persevering all the way! dents what their university aspi- focused on what kinds of activi- rations are. Mr Shull, our new ties are acceptable and what As a staff, we felt that ten stu- University and Careers Coun- constitutes a good reflection. As dents really stood out for the sellor, gave a session which you know, students have to ways in which they embodied a outlined the university applica- complete around 150 hours of particular attribute of the Learn- tion process and asked students CAS over their two years and er Profile during the weekend. to consider what their end goal they need to complete worth- In only Week 2 of the course, is. Some students already have a while reflections as part of their these students were awarded very clear idea about what they CAS journal in order to pass it. certificates and given the follow- want to do in the future, some The activities that our students ing titles (and hopefully will be have very little idea at this stage get involved with for CAS con- inspired to take the Learner and the majority are somewhere tinues to diversify and grow Profile, and all that it does to in between. The students them- under Mr Lee’s leadership and develop well-rounded students, selves have only just finished reading student CAS portfolios and really run with it): their IGCSEs, but we as teach- is an excellent way to see how ers recognise that the course our students grow into well- Champion Inquirer they are now embarked on is rounded individuals, as well as Ina Morken really all about getting to univer- developing intellectually. Eminently Knowledgeable sity and this session got them to Matthew Shen start that thinking process in a Mr Kenny, our Theory of Champion Thinker lively and engaging way. Knowledge (TOK) Co- Victoria Boyden ordinator, led two sessions Champion Communicator Daytime activities at Longmen which encouraged students to Roger Loh involved cooking breakfast and think critically about perception, Eminently Principled dinner, a range of team-building prejudice, responsibility and Morris Chen activities with Outward Bound courage, one of which involved Extremely Open-Minded staff and then kayaking (in pairs). watching and discussing Sidney Theresa Stoelzel Having learned to kayak, stu- Lumet’s 1957 classic film Twelve Extremely Caring dents were put into teams to Angry Men. The other activity Beatrice Blanc design and build a raft and race looked at making judgements, Champion Risk-Taker it to the beach and back. There bias and subjectivity. Theory of Jay Lee were some weird and wonderful Knowledge runs right through Extremely Balanced creations! One was a clear win- the Diploma Programme, both Tina Kao ner and left the other two as a discrete subject and within Eminently Reflective groups as soon as the starting subjects. After this induction Jonathan Tseng whistle was blown. It was great session, students should now be to see the negotiation skills looking for the links between within the teams and then their their subjects in order that they Many thanks to Oliver Lin (H3) teamwork in racing to the finish. can take critical thinking to the and the Outward Bound staff These activities allowed stu- next level. for the photographs in this dents to bond as a year group article. Page 6 ESC Newsletter

University University Counselling Timeline Counsellors Jack Shull, University and Careers Counsellor Corner University counselling pro- Course selection with rele- This is followed up with the grammes in schools must be vance to building a solid aca- university admissions testing developmental – they must demic record should be schedule. move parents and students stressed. All students should from H1 to where they need challenge themselves. Individual meetings with each to be in H3 and H4, so that student are conducted to they are equipped to make H2 Developing Important discuss their academic record, solid university decisions. Perceptions courses, activities, sports, While university decision Developing perceptions about community service and other making should be a family university and careers needs pertinent information. Their effort, it is not unusual for to be addressed, so that stu- university plans are discussed students and parents to have dents can make good course and ‘Colleges I Am Thinking differing views concerning this selections when they enter About’ are added to Naviance. important process. A strong the IB programme. university counselling pro- Meetings are held with each gramme can assist in focusing University visits and summer H3 student and their parents the parent and student to university tours can refine to again discuss their universi- work together. Below is a perceptions regarding univer- ty plans. Timeline of what you can sity size, location, and other expect from the University variables that will become H4 Finalising and Applying and Careers Counselling de- decision points in H3. H4 will be given a group partment at TES. presentation to explain the Career speakers, Shadow university application proce- H1 Preparing For High Internship Programmes, and dure. Details regarding essays, School Field Trips can add to a stu- recommendations, deadlines The student’s academic foun- dent’s better connection be- and other requirements will dation for university begins tween university programmes/ be covered. with their IGCSE course. Stu- majors and the ‘world of dents and parents are encour- work’. Students are reminded about aged to think in terms of a university admissions testing. total IGCSE and IB pro- Students are encouraged to gramme. talk to visiting university rep- Individual meetings with stu- resentatives and to attend dents are held to discuss their The ‘University Preparatory university fairs. ‘short list’ of universities. Curriculum’ is explained. Does the student have a range What do universities mean by The university admissions of universities on their list? this? How flexible can this be, testing process is explained, Universities are moved from depending upon the student’s along with when and what ‘Colleges I Am Thinking ability? tests should be considered. About’ to ‘Active Applications’ on Naviance. H1 The School Record Be- H3 Developing The List gins Here Resources are made available Students are reminded of Parents and students are in- to parents and students, in- their responsibilities regarding formed how the High School cluding websites. accepting or not accepting record is created. university offers of admission. The process of developing a The importance of building list of appropriate prospective Transition programme from solid involvement in activities, universities is explained, along High School to University is community service and leader- with the necessity of making conducted. ship opportunities is highlight- decisions regarding size, loca- ed. A few in-depth activities tion, distance from home, Graduation and the student is over three or four years are selectivity, possible areas of a off on their next step up the more beneficial than superfi- programme/major, activities ladder to success! cial experiences in many areas. and sports availability, Study Abroad, etc. Issue 2 Page 7

University Information Evening

Jack Shull, University and Careers Counsellor

The university application recommendation from teach- dent’s predicted IB scores and process has begun for the TES ers and from myself and how how this information, along H4 students, as they begin to these are recorded in the new with the letters of recommen- apply to universities around online software program dation, are electronically the world. On Wednesday, Naviance. Deadlines in the transferred to universities via September 10th, I was pleased university application process the UK system UCAS, Navi- to present an information are most important and these ance and other methods. I evening for H4 students and were covered in detail. As H4 also touched on the different their parents, in order to out- students are just beginning to types of university applications line the timeline and applica- start the university application and the qualifications needed tion process and to highlight process, I outlined my respon- for universities in different specific deadlines. sibilities in the process and countries. I concluded the then proceeded to explain the information presentation by I started the presentation by student’s and families’ respon- responding to questions from giving the Class of 2015 and sibilities. The university appli- the parents and students. their parents some back- cation process is a combined ground on TES graduates, by effort between the university I am always available to meet sharing with them the univer- counsellor, the student and parents and their son/ sity destinations of the Class the parents and communica- daughter to discuss their uni- of 2014 (41% United States, tion is key in this process. versity choices and the appli- 29% UK, 16% Canada, 10% cation process. Europe and 4% Asia). During the presentation, I I then went on to discuss the explained the importance of process of obtaining letters of the TES transcript, the stu-

A Teaching Moment in Time

Helen Gamble, Editor

At 11:00 am on September 12, Education Supplement. The pro- the planet they may be. TES teachers at TES joined thou- ject uses the power of social was delighted to be the first sands of others from around media to paint a picture of school in Taiwan to ‘take a the globe to take part in ‘A what teachers and their stu- moment to share a moment’. Teaching Moment in Time’, an dents are up to at that very www.tes.co.uk initiative led by the UK’s Times moment, no matter where on

A Year 9 Teaching Moment Page 8 ESC Newsletter

Science News Nicholas Hardy, Head of Science

Year 8 scientists working with data loggers to study Playing Elemental Cards to learn about making com- Change of State with Mr Weng – cool! (Or is it hot?) pounds.

Alchemy with Mr Wright: turning copper into gold! Henry Verrall came back to visit TES after three years (But Year 8 weren’t fooled as they had learned that it can- of studying medicine at Imperial College, London. He not be done!) gave some inside information to the H4 students about university life in the UK and life as a medical student.

H3 Biologists have been drawing on the table and impressing themselves making micro and macro organic molecules Issue 2 Page 9

Science News

H4 Biologists have been studying Plant Biology and trying to see chromosomes in root cells and grow pollen tubes (which is really difficult)!

During the summer, Stephanie and Vincent Kao in H4 studied at the National University of Taiwan and impressed us with their experimental skills – cloning their own tooth cells, transferring jellyfish genes into animal cells to make them glow and finally, making their own in-vitro test-tube meat, which they cooked to make a miniature burger. Yum! Page 10 ESC Newsletter

History in the making: The Scottish Referendum

Ian Stewart, Head of History

Will Thursday mark the end of the 307 year old Union of the parliaments of Scotland and Eng- land? Some IB Theory of Knowledge style questions for us to ponder. Will this change the way other countries seek independence from their masters? What do you think will happen to Scot- land or the rest of the UK if the vote is against the breakaway?

A Note from the Editor Since Mr Stewart asked us to ponder the above questions, the outcome of the referendum is now known: Scotland has voted to stay within the Union. Scotland said no to independ- ence by 55.3% to 44.7% . The turnout of 84.6% was unusually high for a ballot in the United Kingdom, proving that the issue was close to many people’s hearts. Although voting is now over, it is still worth considering the questions raised by Mr Stewart, as well as examining whether there will be any further consequences for British and world politics as a result of this historical referendum.

Year 7 History Snapshot

Raymond Imbleau, Head of Year 7

The Year 7s have started off tions this academic year will be ing on the history topic before this year magnificently in their source-based and students will it is studied in greater depth in History classes. As History is a be required to think critically class. Our school libraries, both relatively new subject to many and question what they have Year 7s, we have started off read and researched. The pas- fiction and non-fiction, offer a this academic year with the sion that I have seen on their wide variety of literature on question: ‘What is History?’ So faces as they questioned the the Year 7 topics: the Fall of far, they have been examining sources on political events and Rome, the First Emperor of past events in their own lives, scrutinised court testimonies (regional History), the as well as global events and for reliability so far has been Norman Conquest of England have come to the conclusion amazing. and the Beginning of Islam. I that history really matters! As a Once we have completed Unit look forward to seeing many Year 7 cohort, the students 1 on ‘What is History?’ in late have analysed both primary and inquisitive minds at work this September, we will move on to secondary sources, looking year, analysing the effectiveness ‘What Factors led to The Fall carefully for reliability or bias in of Shi Huang Di’s leadership of Rome?’ It is always a good both and, in turn, produced and writing an essay on ‘How sound hypotheses for why or idea to read up on the topic/ far did the Norman Conquest how something happened in unit beforehand in order to change England?’ the past. A lot of the investiga- ensure some basic understand- Issue 2 Page 11

ECA Fair

Paul Lee, ECA Coordinator

A few weeks ago, students the activity stalls were packed format reminded me of the from all sections signed up for and the atmosphere was activities fair I attended during their extra-curricular activities “electric” (as described by our my first few weeks of universi- at our first-ever TES ECA Fair. BS HS Principal, Ms Garnett)! ty. Next year’s ECA pro- It started during the middle of It was great to see so many gramme will be launched in a lunch and students had an students talking excitedly to similar fashion and hopefully, hour to trek around the vari- teachers (and to each other) over time, the ECA Fair will ous stalls and enrol on their about the activities we have become an established and chosen activities. Music was on offer. The noise, the much-loved tradition here at ‘pumping’ from the speakers, crowds and the market-place the secondary campus. Page 12 ESC Newsletter

A Special Day Out

Sammi Lee, H2

Recently I had the That touching mo- opportunity to ment made me realise spend some quality what smart angels are time with some hiding inside the very special children brains of these little in Taipei. After kids. nervously getting myself ready and I've learnt that, just heading down to because they have Shih-Lin Station, I disabilities in express- finally got to meet the people so much in those few hours. ing themselves, it doesn't from Autism Awareness and These kids are amazing, no mean we should underesti- the children with whom I matter what disabilities they mate them, because we can’t would be sharing a special have; they may possess a know what great minds are closed mind and have a hard hiding inside. The famous day out. quote "don't judge a book by time expressing themselves, Honestly, I was really taken but deep down they have the its cover" really rings true aback, seeing all these autistic when you consider these smartest brains. kids. They are so brave, autistic kids. strong, willing and striving On arrival at the Cake & towards their own future, no Pastry Museum, a lady led us These kids face many chal- matter how hard it is. Even to the drums by the door. lenges and usually when they though I only spent a short After demonstrating the don’t get what they want, two and a half hours with traditional way to hit the they whine and get very up- these kids, I had the best drums, she asked who would set. I want to help these kids experience with them. We like to have a try. A brave six because something tells me made cookies and explored -year-old girl asked to give it that they will overcome their the Cake & Pastry Museum – a shot and, much to my difficulties one day.

something that I never would amazement, she remembered Thank you to Ms. Chou for have seen myself doing! all the steps to hitting the kindly arranging this trip for drum! Even I couldn't have Tiger and I. We will definitely I'm glad that I had this oppor- remembered, but she did. tunity to help out. I learned help out more in the future. Issue 2 Page 13

Taipei Biennial: The Great Acceleration

Yulin Huang, H3

Last Saturday, our H3 Art evolution with unprecedented More intriguing creatures and class was lucky enough to pay scale and speed. Taipei Bienni- subjects began to appear on a visit to the Taipei Fine Arts al 2014 uses this notion to the upper two floors of the Museum, where we explored examine how contemporary museum. Shimabuku’s My the Taipei Biennial: THE art addresses this new con- Teacher Tortoise (2011-14) GREAT ACCELERATION. In tract between human beings, consists of a live tortoise particular, we listened to a animals, plants, machines, placed in a minimal living envi- discussion/lecture given by products and objects. How ronment. Its slow reptilian several artists, the Curator does today’s art define and movements give the impres- and the Director of the muse- represent our space and time? sion of some prehistoric pres- um. With each artist having ence that is inaccessible. The their own unique style and A few artists stood out for tortoise’s presence provides personality, it was definitely as me, especially in their explana- an occasion to let time slow engaging as Mr Hebden had tions of the meaning and rea- down and enjoy the moment. promised, especially as they son behind their works. The longevity of the tortoise discussed the relationship Haegue Yang, a South Korean has always been a symbol for between artists, machines and artist, displayed her most immortality and wisdom and nature. recent work, Warrior Believer this was definitely one of the Lover, which consists of thirty- many absorbing works at the The French Art Scholar/ three light sculptures, each exhibition. Curator, Nicolas Bourriaud, is one featuring ordinary, every- currently the Director of Ecole day and store-bought items After visiting this exhibition des Beaux-Arts in Paris hanging from metal stands. and listening to the forum, I (ENSBA). His art theory book, The objects include, amongst feel that it does indeed high- Relational Aesthetics, has been other things, wigs, light bulbs, light the way artists focus on translated into twelve lan- artificial plants and hair rollers, links, connections and muta- guages and he is one of the instigating curiosity in those tions and how they envision most influential art critics in looking at the work from afar. planet Earth as a huge net- the Western contemporary Individually, the objects in work, where new states of arts world. For any art stu- Yang’s sculptures are ordinary, matter and new forms of rela- dent, his talk was definitely an but when these are intricately tions appear. opportunity not to be missed. combined and wrapped The concept of the ‘Great around each other, a different Hopefully another great op- Acceleration’ revolves around feeling is emitted. Warrior portunity like this one will the idea that the impact of Believer Lover directly solicits come up again in the future so humanity on the Earth over identification, but at the same that we can further explore the last sixty years has caused time is richly textured. the art world. atmospheric and geological Page 14 ESC Newsletter

Travel Notebook Competition Angela Chang, Chief Librarian

Do you keep a journal to can take them back and con- Britannica School offers age- preserve your memorable tinue keeping their travel appropriate resources at four moments? Students in the journals during the mid-term levels: the Learning Zone for British and French sections break. The works are defi- early learners and Elemen- keep their travel memories in nitely worth viewing. Your tary, Middle and High School beautifully designed scrap- votes count! levels. In addition to encyclo- books and share them with pedia articles, Britannica the TES community in the Resource of the Month: School resources include Travel Notebook Competi- video and audio files, maps, tion in the Phase 1 library! illustrations, photos, primary source documents, recom- Please come and enjoy the mended websites and much creatively presented travel more. stories. Don’t forget to vote for your favourite ones! The To access Britannica School notebooks will be displayed at home, please contact the in the library until the end of librarians for log-in details. September so that students Britannica School Edition

“Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colours. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you start- ed is not the same as never leaving.” Terry Pratchett, A Hat Full of Sky

Caption Competition

Helen Bacon and Helen Gamble

Members of the English department thought this was such a good pose that it deserved to be published in the Newsletter for all to see! But what should the caption read? Send your ideas to the Editor at [email protected] . The best caption will be featured in next month’s Newsletter. Issue 2 Page 15

Year 7 Service Project: Raised Garden Beds

Raymond Imbleau, Head of Year 7

The Year 7s got off to a won- ing afternoon, as students seedlings. Weeding is never derful start with their Service were asked to combine their really an easy or wildly fun Project on September 18th, efforts and teambuilding skills experience, but hopefully it when the whole year group in order to effectively prepare does teach the TES value of went outside to weed, clean their gardens for the planting perseverance and the under- and organise their own raised of their broccoli, cauliflower, standing that all good things garden beds. It was a challeng- mint and Romaine lettuce come through hard work!

News from the Mathematics Department

Twisting & Turning Shubh Lashkery and Jeni Liu

Y7 have been Twisting and ‘negative reciprocal’ you turn struck gold! We realised they Turning in their maths lessons clockwise one space. You could use an ‘if or else’ formu- – have a look at the task on entangle yourself so much that la. the Nrich website: Twisting & you can’t possibly find a way Turning back to zero, then try to work Then Mr Sparks gave us a out how to get back. formidable challenge: could we Mr Sparks’ Y7 maths class turn this into a computer pro- have been learning about frac- The students of Year 7 were gram, as they can handle bigger tions in an unusual way. The very confused. With hard input numbers? As we have a twisting and turning of the work and ingenuity we tried to great deal of talent in this rope represents the negative find a pattern, but somehow it class, two people rose to the reciprocal portrayed by -(1/x). didn’t work. Then others tried challenge: Scott Maxwell, who First, have groups of four. adding different variables to used Scratch, and Faris Wien- Then, take two strings, hold find patterns instead of one, rich, who used Python. They the ends and stand side by but got nowhere. They went were both excellent pieces of side. To ‘add one’ a person back to class and tried some IT skills and impressed us all. goes under the rope the other whiteboard open working out. person is holding. To do the It was great and then they

Scratch Program Scott Maxwell

I believe this shows Maths is making discoveries, changing study our unit, which is fractions. not always taught by textbook direction, following your curiosity In my maths class, it is always and it can be fun. As a Mathe- and making ideas with your im- this exciting and I love all the matician, I say Maths should be agination!” Shubh Lashkery activities we do and my maths fun and interesting, isn’t that class is always, always fun.” what it is about? As a wise “I would say this was a great Jeni Liu man once said: “Maths is about experience for our class. Also, it ideas, it's an adventure. It's about was a very interesting way to Scratch Program Page 16 ESC Newsletter

Student Council Janice Liu Greetings to the TES com- Refurbishment project. After with the exciting schedule of munity and welcome (back) a year’s worth of dedication activities in the heart of Tai- to all the Student Council and devotion, we finally com- pei. We also got the school members! With a new team pleted the project, which is involved in the autism aware- ready to take off, the Student now clearly visible to all. We ness campaign, when we Council will surely have an- went through tough decision hosted whole school activi- other productive and accom- making, layout planning and ties for an afternoon. We plished year. Following last responding to student feed- spent the afternoon telling year’s successful events, ser- back, but we persevered people about autism, what vice projects and facility im- towards our target: to create the condition means and how provements, the Student an ideal study environment we can all support people Council is aiming even higher for students. It really makes living with autism. Again, it in all of these areas, so be us proud when we see stu- was a first for our school, but prepared to see the changes dents enjoying the comforta- definitely not a last. It made a we will once again bring to ble couches and studying in solid mark and created a the school this year! the study areas, both of lasting memory in the minds which show the transfor- of both the Council members We were met by an amazing mation we pushed for and and the entire school com- surprise at the start of the implemented. We hope that munity. year, when we opened (as we can bring more transfor- we do at the start of every For the future, we are look- mations to the school in the school year) the applications ing towards transparency and future through the integra- for students to join the Stu- communication with the tion with technology, thus dent Council. By the end of student body, in order to creating resourceful and the application period, we create and maintain a medi- technologically-advanced had received a whopping 103 um through which students study areas. applications (more than twice can keep up with our pro- the number of applications Last year, we also instigated a jects and progress, under- received last time), all of great variety of school stand how we work and be which demonstrated drive events, such as the How Well aware of what is happening and passion to be part of the Do You Think You Know Your around school. In bridging Council. Our Student Coun- Buddy? event, which brought the gap between the Council cil has always been very out the Valentine’s Day spirit and the students, we aim to unique, having the capacity across the school and saw make ourselves more repre- and vision to tackle projects the Phase II Atrium packed sentative of the student body, of great variety, both in and with students up for the giving them a direct pathway out of school, and this is prizes! One of the biggest of communication to express something we believe our school-wide events was the what they think. In addition, school is very proud of. We Paranoia Game, where we we hope to collaborate significantly increased the adopted a simple idea to stir closely with other leaders in number of positions in the up paranoia and competition school in order to accom- Council this year for several around the school, testing plish even bigger things. We reasons: first, we wanted to stealth and strategy in all stand by principles that keep accommodate the increase in those who dared to take us focused on the idealistic, interest exhibited by the part, culminating in the Shad- whilst respecting feasibility, student body; second, we ow City Disco. With the at- allowing us to think outside hope to tackle more pro- mosphere filling the building, the box and keep the school jects; third, we want to boost it was a night unlike any oth- and the Council dynamic and our efficiency and diversity; er. moving. Technology is anoth- and finally, we want to gather er central focus of ours this Another key event in which more students from around year, as we are hoping to the Council played a major the school. We are confident integrate different parts of part was Light It Up Blue. We that this year’s team is fully the school with technology, brought together students equipped to achieve our in order to keep our school from within and outside of goals and beyond! and our community up to the Council to join us on an date with the ever-changing This year’s massive interest expedition to Taipei 101, to world. With a bustling group in the Council highlights our show our support for the of members and an ever- successes last year with the Light It Up Blue event in the growing vision, we see only many projects we tackled, spirit of autism awareness. great things for the Student especially the Study Area We volunteered to help out Council! Issue 2 Page 17

COMING TO TES IN 2015

THE WIZARD OF OZ

BE PART OF IT!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnXAl1ntt_4 Page 18 ESC Newsletter

Six Arts Academy at TES Flora Sung, Head of Chinese Language and Culture

Greetings to TES! It gives me universities. The first two Singa- great pleasure to announce days will consist of work- pore, that the CLC team at the shops and field trips, with a Beijing, RDFZ XISHAN secondary campus has organ- plenary session scheduled on School Beijing and three abo- ised an innovative, student- the final day. We are target- riginal schools in Taiwan. We centred Chinese learning ing students from interna- sincerely welcome secondary event, incorporating the clas- tional schools in the region, and high school students sic Chinese education model along with students from learning Chinese as a second of Six Arts, an overarching Taiwanese aboriginal schools. or foreign language to experi- umbrella of Confucianism Students will mingle during ence, not only the beauty of that originated thousands of the workshops and trips, Chinese culture through years ago during the Zhou with the aim of sharing and associated activities, but also Dynasty. The event has been learning from each other to accelerate their linguistic scheduled to take place in through their diversity and progress in Chinese through st Taipei from October 1 to collaboration. various dynamic workshop 3rd and will be hosted by the sessions deliberately devel- Taipei European School, sup- We have 116 participants oped to cater for students’ from The International Col- ported by APCLTA (Asia diverse learning needs. Pacific Chinese Language lege Hong Kong, The , Ruamrudee Teacher Association), along International School , with three prominent local

Chess Championships Matthew Fagg, Teacher EPC

On Sunday, 2nd November, ent age ranges in the compe- Olympic team. Our second- the EPC will be hosting the tition, ranging from kinder- ary school teams and parents' National Team and Club garten (for children who are teams have also done well in Chess Championships. This is five or under) to the open the past against some very the third time that we have competition, which is for strong opposition. hosted this prestigious event players of any age. If you would like your child and over 250 of the best The TES teams who have to participate in the event, chess players from around taken part in this competition please contact me at Taiwan will be participat- have become increasingly [email protected] ing. The competition starts at successful over the last three 9:30 am and will finish around Parents are also welcome to years. For example, our kin- 4:00 pm. There should be participate in the open dergarten team won their three players in a team and event. If you would like to competition last year and each team will play seven play, but do not know any were the national champions, games during the day. The other chess players, let me while our junior school team cost of entering a team in the know and I can put you in a were leading their age range event is NT$1,200, which team. until the last round, when includes lunch for each par- they lost to the Taiwanese ticipant. There are six differ- Issue 2 Page 19

ESCPA Corner Jaime Chang, ESCPA

Wow, we are off to a great We will support the sports Tuesday of the month? Please start to the year! Thank you tournaments held at TES this contact the Roots and Shoots to all the parents for your year by selling refreshments coordinator, Adrienne Goh, at involvement and contribution throughout the day. We are [email protected] if to the ESCPA. Here is an looking for volunteers to help; you are interested. update of last month’s events IB students are welcome to sign up for this as a CAS activ- It’s that time of the year again! and the upcoming ones: The Christmas Bazaar Handi- ity to earn more CAS hours. The Casual Coffee Morning A volunteer sign-up list will be craft Team is starting to get held at Wendel’s had a great busy making all the items for coming your way. The first turnout. About thirty parents the big day. If anyone is inter- event is the MS attended and the morning was ested in participating, please Tournament (B-Division): well spent. We plan to host th contact Rachel Robinson at Friday 25 October, 9:00 am- these coffee mornings twice a ra- 3:00 pm at ESC. term. An invitation will be [email protected] sent out soon regarding the One new school event this If you have any queries or year is the ESC Sport’s Day, details of the next event. ideas to improve our organisa- which will be held on tion, please don’t hesitate to Our annual Autumn Festival Wednesday 29th October, held at the Wenlin Campus contact us at escpacommit- 9:50 am-3:45 pm at the Taipei was a great success! We sold [email protected]. We value Arena. Volunteers are also forty boxes of pizza and twen- needed for this day. Please your voice! ty bottles of wine. Thank you Please make a note of our so much to our Activities sign up. next meeting: Friday 17th Oc- Committee and to all the Did you know a small group tober, 9:00 am-11:00 am in parent and student volunteers of parent volunteers prepare the Conference Room at ESC. who made it happen. vegetarian lunches for stu- dents and teachers every third Hope you can join us!

Year 8 Teambuilding Libby Bevin, Head of Year 8 & 9

For something different this camping stoves, a limited involved in decision-making year, Year 8 students were amount of other cooking uten- activities, sports and even challenged to an overnight stay sils and the food they had some relaxation games. for their teambuilding activities. brought themselves, to work The students made their way with. We were presented with Our Year 8 students illustrated up to the Activi- remarkable pasta dishes, cur- that they were talented in ty Centre (the scout hall) by ries, wraps and deserts, made many different ways, resilient bus and by foot on Thursday almost entirely from scratch and, most importantly, pre- 21st August. After a short hike and deciding on a winner was pared to help one another and in the midday sun, they settled very difficult. work together as a team. The into their cabins and chose to other staff members and I were either go for a further hike or After a somewhat humid sleep, impressed with how the stu- play football and volleyball on the students were up early on dents approached all the activi- the field for the remainder of Friday morning to complete ties and how they coped with the afternoon. nine different team building any challenges that they came activities. The students worked across. In the early evening, students together in groups to complete were involved in a very exciting tricky tasks that required both Big thanks to my form teacher and creative Masterchef cook- physical and mental skill, such team: Jared Duxfield, Julie ing challenge and we were all as building a contraption from Reakes and Francesca Sim- blown away by the resourceful- straws that could catch a tennis mons, as well as all the other ness and creativity of the Year ball from a height without staff who made this camp pos- 8s. Students only had small breaking. Students were also sible. Page 20 ESC Newsletter

The Amazing Race James Woodall, Assistant Head

A few weeks ago, the Year 9 themselves all over the city, cals for information and even students took part in the as they planned what they looking for specific animals in annual Amazing Race for thought was the best route. the zoo. It was a hot but teambuilding day. Nearly one The aim is to travel to as action packed day, with stu- hundred students and teach- many locations as possible dents returning to the EPC at ers set out on a race around for points and complete the 3:00 pm with red faces and the city full of challenges and challenges for further re- sweaty clothes! For the first fun. Twelve locations were wards. Teachers also took time ever, all groups were mapped with twelve challeng- part in the food eating chal- back on time (usually at least es to complete. Students lenge, with a range of Tai- one miscalculates the time). were most definitely pushed wanese specialities on the All teams must be congratu- out of their comfort zones, menu. lated for their participation, either physically, socially or The teams bonded as they respect and creativity on the mentally! did group tasks in very high day. It was a huge success The twelve teams took on profile areas. These involved and enjoyed by all. the challenge and spread dancing in public, asking lo-

Year 7 Camp Taiwan Teambuilding Residential

Raymond Imbleau, Head of Year 7

The Year 7s had a wonderful that they could exchange In the evenings, after eating time up in the sub-tropical seating positions, all the while delicious hot dinners of spa- mountains near Wanli at keeping their kayak stable ghetti, quesadillas and curry Camp Taiwan. This was the and afloat. chicken, we sang ‘repeat after first time that the German me’ songs around the camp- Another popular activity was Section teamed up with the fire and made S’mores (a tra- the Giant Swing, which tested British Section for Camp ditional campfire treat con- both the students and teach- Taiwan, which made the sisting of a roasted marsh- ers alike. Mr DeLange faced teambuilding experience even mallow and a layer his fear of heights head on better and more meaningful! of chocolate sandwiched and “flew five stories high” in The weather cooperated between two pieces the sky, strapped safely to a with us as well this year, as of graham cracker). We also harness. River-tracing, ar- the days were warm and played strategic tag games, chery, and rock climbing also sunny and the evenings were where students were asked proved to be popular activi- cool and breezy, which made to think tactically and team ties at camp, where team- it perfect for sleeping. up with peers in order to mates were required to help accomplish their goals. I At the beach in the daytime, each other trek up the creek, would really like to thank all the surprisingly calm Pacific retrieve arrows and hold the British and German stu- gave the Year 7s a wonderful firmly onto ropes so that dents and teachers who opportunity to paddle their their friends could safely made Camp Taiwan a truly kayaks on the ocean and climb up the four-storey rock unforgettable experience. manoeuvre themselves so and timber wall. Issue 2 Page 21

Reflection on Camp Taiwan Emily Chang

“I had a brilliant time at Camp Taiwan and my favourite activity was rock climbing. Rock climbing was fun and challenging. I am a bit scared of heights, so I didn’t get to the top, but I tried my best and with the help of my classmates, I reached my target. My team cheered me on when I wanted to give up, so I tried again and made it! I love Camp Taiwan and I hope that I can go again.” Page 22 ESC Newsletter

Teambuilding at TES Gavin Matthews, Head of H1 & H2

The annual Teambuilding Day sential. We learn most when by the Japanese to carry coal is an important event within we take risks and make mis- from the mountains to the TES. It allows the students to takes in a safe environment port, but now existing to combine in new groups, to and a mutually supportive serve hordes of tourists explore, to try their hand at classroom means that stu- wanting to see traditional new things and to stretch dents are more likely to take Taiwanese villages more re- themselves in situations out- risks within their learning. sistant to the clarion call of side of their usual academic modernity than Taipei. This year’s H1s had the task disciplines. A year group in of impressing our illustrious Rather than write in detail which the students feel com- judges in our traditional Mas- about each of these events, I fortable in each other’s pres- terchef competition. Our press-ganged two talented ence is not a mere luxury; for H2s had the joy of discover- writers to do the job for me. learning to be effective, that ing Taipei’s hinterland in the sense of mutual trust is es- form of the Pingxi Line, built

The Pingxi Line Romy Arsenault, H2

On the 29th of August, the to explore Houtong and the opportunity to write our H2 students gathered at Tai- Taiwanese food it has to hopes for this year on a bam- pei Main Station with the offer. Most groups cooled boo stick, which went on a excitement of being able to themselves down with some wall filled with layers and learn outside of class. We shaved ice. layers of them. We also had boarded on a train with the the chance to free sky lan- Before we knew it, we were minimum of fuss and started terns, covered with our already on another train, off on the journey to Houtong. hopes and dreams, into the to Jintong, at the very end of We expected to start sweat- luminous, clear, blue sky. the Pingxi Line. Here, more ing once out in the sun, but Lastly, we went on a hike, students were able to discov- ten minutes into the crowd- filled with vibrant green trees er food they had never tried ed one-hour train ride, sweat and a river. The hike was before, whilst others laughed was already dripping down filled with heavy footsteps at their reactions. The eight our faces. and eager voices, as we want- groups dispersed onto trails ed to reach our destination: Once we arrived at Houtong, that led to the unexpected. the famous Shifen waterfall, we had already forgotten This was a great opportunity which we caught glimpses of about the train ride because for the photographers to through the trees. This is the scenery was beautiful. take their photos, as the where the notion of team- We learned about the coal scenery was quite captivating. building truly took place as mining history, as we stood Once the Jintong adventures the students and even the surrounded by a river. Some were over, we took yet an- teachers, aided each other to groups even refreshed them- other train to our last, but persevere and turned this selves in it! We also realised definitely most eventful, des- exacting hike into a lively that the town is known as tination, Shifeng. We circulat- one. ‘Crazy Cat City’ because in ed through the small lanes to every corner we looked, a We returned to Taipei with buy souvenirs and, for the cat was to be seen. We then tired minds brimming with third time, tried new and split up into our set groups wonderful memories of ad- interesting foods. We got the and were given the freedom venture. Issue 2 Page 23

Masterchef Chloe Chioy, H1

The event where everyone sprint up and down the stairs but also your group’s ability gets together to toss spices and ready themselves for a to make a lasting impression. into a huge mixing pot of big cafeteria cook-fest. Plastic Whether it is simply pulling cultures, while experiencing bags bulging, heads beading out the chair for them or what it’s like to travel around with sweat, the shoppers saying “Welcome” when they the world… in a building! arrived with a fanfare of bus- enter. tling. Provisions on the table Each group of 6-8 students is My group went for the stand- and knives in hand, the scent allocated a cuisine and must ard bows and greetings for of exotic foods gradually then do their best to prepare our Chinese style restaurant wafted into the air. a mouth-watering meal (main theme, while another chose course, drink, dessert), an The only cure for poor plan- to let their inimitable carpet authentic restaurant-like ning, while also being part of of candles do the wowing. ambience, an eye-catching a stroke of genius, was im- Three judges entered one BIG RESTAURANT NAME, provisation. I had to admit after another to rate each and finally, a unique menu. that I was quite impressed classroom however they saw But oh! Don’t we all wish it when a group used two fry- fit. After a wait that seemed were that simple? The rules ing pans to pop popcorn like hours instead of minutes, state that “You cannot order when they were met with the the judges received a flourish food from restaurants or buy problem of not having a cov- of bows and departed. pre-made food. You must er. Waiting for the beef noo- bring your own utensils and dle broth to simmer, I decid- Finally, the time that we had cutlery. We will only provide ed to observe the many in- all been waiting for had ar- you with a hot plate to cook teresting sights you often see rived. Which group would be on.” This set alarm bells ring- when students are immersed able to bask in the glory of ing in my head. No ovens, in action. An assortment of being the best restaurant in microwaves, steamers, or at unknown cheeses sat on a the entire year? Which the very least fancy napkins, platter, waiting to be noticed. groups would have the ‘Best all equate to a limited list of A rebellious bowl of crêpe Main Course’ and ‘Best Des- appropriate foods and an batter refused to rise from sert’? It was time to find out. inevitable headache. To its slumber, bubbling indiffer- The Indian style restaurant steepen the challenge, each ently. Although what really ‘Delhi Belly’ brought home group had only NT$700 caught my eye were the artis- the grand prize for having the handed to them for ingredi- tic Thai-style onion flowers. best overall restaurant. Many ents. Spending more than Dishes such as mushroom pats on the back, consola- that, or not going to a desig- pasta, green curry, and vanilla tions, and cries of elation nated supermarket, would pudding attracted the ap- were exchanged amongst the result in immediate disqualifi- praising glances of the teach- crowd. cation. No pressure. May the ers standing by. odds be ever in your flavour. I asked myself what I learned Scoffing down our lunches as from this food-filled experi- if sitting on hot plates, the As I walked into the school ence. If I had to put it in a whole year group shuffled building, I had a sense of single sentence, it would be and shifted restlessly. In less dread gnawing at me. After a this: “The next time I go to a than thirty minutes, the week of hasty idea meshing, Thai restaurant, I’m ordering nerve-racking judging would the day had come. It began Tom Yam noodles (best main begin. The minute hand hit its with a rushed recap of how course) for sure.” That dis- mark, releasing us from our the day was going to play out covery aside, I’ve learned lots mental prison. The last of the and the unveiling of which about different foods around pots and pans danced about cuisine each group was to the world, along with gaining in the soapy water after the pursue. Classrooms and a new sense of respect for long afternoon hustle. In money were handed over each and every one of my some ways, greeting the and the shoppers set off to classmates. This event was judge is what matters the gather their goods. The re- unwrapped from hard work, most in the judging process. maining people hurriedly dipped into a layer of accom- The key to getting a good started to spread out multi- plishment and finally, present- score lies not only in your coloured tablecloths, hang ed on a platter of success. room deco or savoury foods, decorations from the ceiling, Page 24 ESC Newsletter

A Word from the Head of Sport Kwok Chow, Head of Sport

It’s been a busy few weeks, with all our teams in KS3 and High School playing plenty of match- es against local International Schools. There will be plenty more matches to come and if you would like a list of all the fixtures for the year please email me at [email protected] and I will share the sports calendar with you through Gmail. It also gives me great pleasure to introduce our new Sports Student Leadership Team: Irene Hung, Josephine Blanc, Beatrice Blanc, Jay Lee, Mason Lee, Maya Golan, Claire Chen, Wilma Lilliequist, Nidhi Mehta and Yu- Ting Chen. I am sure they will do a great group job in assisting the sports activities at the school!

Athletes of the Month Beatrice Blanc, Irene Hung and Josepine Blanc are our Athletes of the Month for September 2014, for displaying perseverance and commitment to TES Titans Sports Teams. Issue 2 Page 25

JV Boys Football Team

Match Report by Oliver Lin

On Thursday, 11th September, the JV Football Team had their first friendly game against TAS. Going into the game we had high hopes of coming out with a win. The whistle blew and the game began. We were playing a 35 minute half. For the first ten minutes, TES led in posses- sion over the ball. We began to push the ball deeper into their half of the field and made plays to pass it up front towards the attackers. 15 minutes into the game, Sean scored the first goal for TES, as he chipped the ball over the goalies head. We were now more confident, but knew one goal was not going to secure the leading position. We carried on pressuring their defense, enabling us to have more shots on goal. This led to Axel scoring the team’s second goal, as he smacked it in towards the front post. The halftime whistle blew and TES were up 2 -0. The second half was a lot more offensive, as TAS began to take mores shots on goal and in the 60th minute of the game, they were given a penalty kick, which they scored. Things began to get shaky for the Titans, but in the 65th minute of the game, Abdul dribbled the ball down the center of the field and scored the third goal which secured the first win of the season for the JV Boys against the Tigers.

JV Girls Volleyball

Match Report by Beatrice Blanc On Friday, 12th September, the Junior Varsity Girls traveled down to for a friendly volleyball game. When the bell rang at 3:00 o'clock, we quickly changed into our uniforms and hopped on the bus. Once we got there, we quickly warmed up to prepare for a pretty competitive game ahead. Once the game commenced, we had quite a good start, with some of the point-winning elements, for example the ‘bump, set, spike’ action. At the end of the first set we lost, because nerves kicked in and we missed out on elements that we don't usually miss out on. After a few practices, we then got the hang of it and we were able to work together well to work out who should get the ball next. After a few mess ups, smiles started to appear on our faces, we started to cheer each other up, and we were really having fun and enjoying the game. We then tried to incorporate different elements that Coach Li taught us and gave TAS a good game. In the end the scores didn't matter, as we all had fun and tried our best. Despite the fact that we only had one proper practice as a team, we did really well. This was an amazing experience, where we discovered each other’s strength and power and we learned the importance of encouragement and working as a team. We are all very excited about the next games and we will try our hardest as a team to bring the champi- ons title back this year. We all had smiles on our faces after that game, which is a great thing. Page 26 ESC Newsletter

JVB Girls Volleyball

Match Report by Lute Durham

On Friday, the JVB Girls Volleyball Team set off from the High School campus down to Taipei American School. Knowing that TAS has a brilliant volleyball team, we were ready to bring out the best in ourselves. During the game, we started off with a subtle positive attitude, then all of a sudden, we knew we had a chance at beating TAS. That was when we gained in confidence and sportsmanship, which led to triumph. Although it was not a very demanding challenge, it was a taste of what our teamwork could and would be like in future practices and games. Overall, our team showed sportsmanship, enthusiasm and improved teamwork, so I believe we did excep- tionally well compared to practices.

Varsity Boys Football

Report by Coach Duxfield On Saturday, September 13th, the Varsity Boys Football Team played against Taipei American School at their campus. The day was intensely hot and humid and we knew that, this early in the season, the heat would be hard to deal with. From the start of the game, TAS controlled posses- sion of the ball. Their passing was more accurate and they were able to pass into space and con- trol the ball well. Our defense was strong, however, and we were able to repel most of their attacks with little trouble. Near the end of the first half, the heat started to take a toll and our defensive intensity started to diminish. We had a lapse in concentration and TAS took advantage, scoring a goal and going into the half time break 1-0. At half time, the coaching team of Mr Duxfield and Mr Weston talked about the need to communicate, keep up the intensity and try to pass the ball to the wings rather than just booting away possession. We started off strong after the break and looked much more competitive. Again, we struggled to deal with the heat and a number of key players had to spend time off the field to recover. TAS again took advantage of a mistake and scored a second goal. We were unable to respond and the final score was 2- 0.This was a good first match for us and we were proud of our effort, despite the loss. We had some stand out performers, notably Andy Huang, who was very strong on defense, Jonathan Hsiao, who played most of the game at high intensity with little rest time and Abdoul Sankara, whose skill and athleticism made him a constant threat. Leo Ku also made an excellent effort under pressure as our last minute stand-in goal keeper. We know we can improve on our fitness and accuracy with the ball so we can retain more possession. Issue 2 Page 27

Cross Country Race International Friendly

Report by King Munn Cheah

As the 13th of September dawned, the Taipei European School Cross Country team rallied together at the TianMu Baseball Park in preparation for the first ever pre-season international friendly race against the Taipei American School, the Shanghai American School Puxi/ Pudong and the International School Beijing. What made this pre-season race special was the fact that it was our first ever international friendly. In the past, we have only ever raced against the Taipei American School and several other local schools and we were therefore all looking forward to meeting new people. I was personally excited about the race, as I was able to meet up with a couple of old friends. I also looked at this race as an opportunity to develop the team and bond at the same time. In the girl’s team, we had our Swedish sisters Alida and Wil- ma Lilljequist who, against all odds, managed to secure a satisfying position throughout the race. Outnumbered, the Swedes’ relentless effort at keeping ahead of the group paid off. We had a considerably higher number of boys in the boy’s race. However, we were still outnum- bered, but never intimidated. The distance for each race was 5km (3 miles), with the average time being twenty minutes for both guys and girls. By the end of the day, we were exhausted, covered in sweat and suffering from cramps. However, we were content and satisfied with our overall progress. Despite the heat and the fact that two Shanghai American School stu- dents passed out, while a Taipei American School student was puking all over the place, every- one had a great sense of pride and achievement, as it is an honour to represent your school in an international competition. I was personally extremely satisfied with everyone’s perfor- mance. Special kudos to Chris Lam (H2), Alida Lilljequist (H2) and Wilma Lilljequist (H1), for showing outstanding performance during the race. Linus Lu (Co-Captain) summed it up: “Everyone did a fantastic job and performed extraordinarily under harsh circumstances.” Someone else said: “It was awesome despite the hot weather. Many of the runners were able to push through and those who didn't tried their hardest!”

PLACINGS Girls Alida Lilljequist 8th

Wilma Lilljequist 29th

Boys Christopher Lam 27th King Munn Cheah 28th Howard Hsu 32nd Howard Lin 34th Morris Chen 38th Linus Lu 39th Page 28 ESC Newsletter

Y7 Boys Volleyball Team

Report by Yin Chin Kuo

Everyone was very eager to get the ball during the volleyball match against First Bank. We didn’t do so well during the first game, but did a lot better during the second game. In the first game, everyone was hiding away from the ball when the ball came towards them. However, we did get better towards the end. We lost the first game, but we didn’t give up! We did much better dur- ing the second game. Everyone worked very well together and rushed to get the ball. Everyone was really happy that we got better in the second game, even though we did not win. The thing we did well was working together as a team, which is very important. Without teamwork, we would not know when we’re supposed to get the ball, like what we did in the first game. One of the things we need to improve on is to not be scared of the ball and not to stray too far from the places we’re assigned. In the first game, we ran everywhere and ducked when the ball came to us. Even though we didn’t win the game, we still tried and did our best.

Y7 Girls Volleyball Team

Match Report by Emily Stuade

On Tuesday, 16th of September, the Year 7 girls had their first volleyball match. Our team (the ‘S’ Team) worked particularly well together. We passed the ball to each other, went in to help each other out and encouraged each other all of the time. We need to work on communicating a bit more, because we could have done better if we called for the ball and did not get confused about whose ball it is and end up losing a point because the ball just went over the net and dropped on our side. Nevertheless, we won! Special thanks to MAB for playing against us and we are looking forward to seeing them at the next match. Issue 2 Page 29

Y9 Boys Volleyball Team

Report by Coach Imbleau

The game at Bethany was difficult, as the court’s ceiling is much lower than our TES gym and people who served underarm had a hard time trying not to hit the ceiling. That was one of the major factors that caused our defeat: their home court advantage. The Bethany team was also a formidable opponent. Not only were they fantastic in serving, their teamwork was insane. We didn’t call for the ball and our serves often hit the net. I guess the nerves got the better of us. We will learn from our mistakes and will be a better team for it.

Y9 Girls Volleyball

Match Report by Hannah Kwuo

On Tuesday, the Year 9 girls had a volleyball match against Bethany at TES. Everyone was very nervous, since it was the first game for Year 9 girls this term. When the game started, Bethany had strong servers and won the first set. Determined not to be fazed, the Year 9 girls tried extra hard and won the second set with a score of 25-18. The last set of the game was the most in- tense. The scores for both teams were equal the whole time, until Molly served an amazing ball. Bethany's team skillfully passed the ball back towards us, but with our teamwork, we managed to spike the ball back into the other court's area, so the final score was 14-15, with TES Year 9 girls winning! Thanks to Ms Huang for coaching us and we can't wait for the tournament! Page 30 ESC Newsletter

Year 8 Girls Volleyball

Match Report by Jessy

On September 14th, our Year 8 Volleyball Team played three games against , Bethany in our school. Since we have twenty-four members, we divided into three teams:,Team A ,B and C. Every team got to play at least once against MAB. We had a great time learning how to play against other teams. We also had a few outstanding members, for example Regina Liu, who was successful in 7 out of 8 serves and Jemmi Chan, who also successfully served 6 out of 7 times. Overall, we learned a lot from the match: how to pass a ball and how to serve well to make the ball go over the net. This match was a great opportunity for us.

Sports Day

Dear Parents and Students,

It is with great excitement that I announce to you that we will be having our first annual Sports Day event on Wednesday October 29th.

The event will take place during school hours for students in Y7 through to H2 at the Taipei Sports Arena.

I truly believe that this is going to be a unique and fantastic event, with activities for absolutely every student involved. Not only will it be a chance for our budding sports stars to shine, but it will also give others (students and staff!) a chance to take part, have fun and celebrate our school values through being physical.

More information will be posted at a later date regarding specific details, but please keep this date free in your diary, as we would love your support on the day!

Many thanks.

Francesca Simmons, Head of Physical Education Issue 2 Page 31

SWIRE EUROPEAN Our school has attracted regional and worldwide attention with its SECONDARY CAMPUS unique model for integrating German, British, French, and High School sections in terms of their curricula, administration, finance, 31 JianYe Road, , buildings and facilities. Taipei 11193 Phone: 555-555-5555 Fax: 555-555-5555 The Taipei British School (TBS), Ecole Francaise de Taipei (EFT); E-mail: and Deutsche Schule Taipei (DST) began around 1990 in response to the needs of expatriate families with young children, living in Tai- pei. The schools soon realised that there was much to be gained by joining forces to establish a combined European campus. This would allow the schools to share some facilities and resources yet teach their own respective national curricula.