Hilary Term 2024 Peponi Post

Hilary

Outstanding Pearson Learner Awards

Annually, Pearson acknowledges and celebrates learners across the globe who have exhibited exceptional academic prowess in their examination performance. The Outstanding Pearson Learner Awards (OPLAs) are bestowed upon those learners in each examination series who have attained the highest subject mark in their respective country, the region, and worldwide.

We extend our congratulations to our pupils who were honoured with the 2023

Outstanding Pearson Learner Awards for their remarkable achievements in the 2023

examination series, amidst competition from 700 schools spanning 82 countries globally.

Aarav Jiten Patel

Highest Mark in Kenya

Pearson Edexcel

International GCSE Biology

Jaanvi Mehul Shah

Highest Mark in Kenya

Pearson Edexcel

International GCSE Mathematics A

Pasha Beju Haria Highest Mark in Kenya

Pearson Edexcel

International GCSE Chemistry

Rohin Sharma

Highest Mark in Kenya

Pearson Edexcel

International GCSE Mathematics A

Samskara Giana Shah Highest Mark in Africa

Pearson Edexcel

International GCSE Physics

Sofia Akello EjukuEjalu

Highest Mark in Africa

Pearson Edexcel

International GCSE Religious Studies

The recent MSMUN Conference showcased talent and dedication from January 1st to February 2nd, 2024. Our pupils, Akira Yoshida, Maia Bateman, and Devina Shah, stood out and were crowned among the best, demonstrating exemplary performance and commitment.

The EAMUN Conference, held from February 13th to 16th, 2024, gathered over 1200 delegates between the ages of 16 and 18. Before this, our dedicated team underwent intensive training and assessments, displaying exceptional commitment and perseverance.

Celebrating Remarkable Achievements in MS�EAMUN Programme

It is with immense joy and pride that we share the outstanding achievements of our pupils in the MS-EAMUN programme for this term. Our delegates to the 30th and 42nd sessions of the Programme have left us in awe with their exceptional performance, dedication, and unwavering commitment. Their prowess in resolution writing, debate, and knowledge of current affairs has resulted in a multitude of coveted awards across various

Team in planning, preparing, organising, and running the 2025 sessions of the MS-EAMUN Conferences.

Detailed Highlights of Achievements

MSMUN Conference

The recent MSMUN Conference showcased talent and dedication from January 1st to February 2nd, 2024. Our pupils, Akira Yoshida, Maia Bateman, and Devina Shah, stood out and were crowned among the best, demonstrating exemplary performance and commitment.

committees, a true reflection of their hard work, resilience, and spirit of dedication.

A Momentous Achievement

We are thrilled to honour and celebrate a truly historic achievement for Peponi School. For the first time, we proudly present our very own Aarav Patel as the next Secretary General of the 2024-25 MS/EAMUN conference, the most coveted position in the Programme. Aarav will lead the Executive

EAMUN Conference

The EAMUN Conference, held from February 13th to 16th, 2024, gathered over 1200 delegates between the ages of 16 and 18. Before this, our dedicated team underwent intensive training and assessments, displaying exceptional commitment and perseverance.

Detailed Achievements

Individual Accolades

As the curtain fell on the EAMUN conference, our delegates achieved remarkable success in various committees. Pasha Haria was resoundingly declared the best delegate in the Ecology Committee. At the same time, Illyaseen Nimnji and Shayan Dewany convinced delegates in the Security Council that

Russia had a legitimate invasion of Ukraine, resulting in multiple coveted awards. Illyaseen walked out of the committee room with 3 awards: Best Delegate, Best Speaker and Best Resolution, while Shayan shared the Best Speaker award. Nesa Kochar's impeccable debating skills stole the show in the Special Summit, and Myrah Khan secured the best Securitary award for her exceptional efforts.

Piers Batuka and Wayua Kagushia had the opportunity to moderate some sessions as Junior Chairs, enjoying some deserving moments as essential persons following a successful 14-week training session pre-conference event. Others who excelled with a special mention include Nahla Jeilan in Human Rights and Ariana Mehta in the press corp, which showcases their dedication and talent.

Acknowledgement of Dedication

The commitment and resilience displayed by our students throughout the program's season deserve commendation and recognition. Their dedication has been truly admirable, from their impeccable attire to their continuous service and support in training new entrants.

Jimmy Ogodo Dean of Studies

Aarav Patel - Secretary General of the 2024-2025 MS/EAMUN Conference

The Banda SMART Day

It was a delight to see a third cohort of Banda Year 7 pupils enjoy another SMART Day at Peponi School.

An eager arrival at 8.15 am gave them time to change into their ruby-red T shirts, tour our Sedge House escorted by our Shell pupils and enjoy a breakfast snack before striding off to their S, M or A !

In Science this year, pupils were treated to investigations of static electricity using a Van der Graff generator, examined frictionless motion using a Maglev Train and enjoyed watching a spectacular thermite reaction – enough to make your hair stand on end! With Mr. Njoroge at the helm, Maths saw the use of ICT to better understand indices and in Art all were able to design, paint and take home their own pots.

The year group reunited for R – Recreationand the chance to enjoy a range of our sporting facilities from basketball courts to tennis and the gym/fitness centre: for many, this was the first time to experience careful and qualified instruction for squatting, box jumps and overhead press. The range of facilities allows all to find an area of sport in which they may excel.

Lunch provided a chance to draw breath and tuck into our culinary delights from cauliflower cheese, meatballs and fries, to fruit and ice cream: seconds for many; relished by all.

T - Team Building was the order of the afternoon. Other than Hog Charge, for many this was the first chance for Banda pupils to enjoy the facilities on offer at Northlands Ranch. A mountain bike course, an archery session and an assault course resulted in all returning to campus puffing, but smiling,

After a further top up of home-cooked delights it was on to the bus for the return trip. You were a delight to host: thank you Banda Year 7 and staff.

Ruth Cook Marketing Officer

Report From the Music Department

The Hilary term is, arguably, the busiest in the Music Department as there are a wide variety of events both in and out of school.

The Tea-time concerts have continued their success with a significant number of debuts along with a performance from the Staff Choir and a choir formed of the Junior pupils studying Spanish. ¡Gracias!

Just before the half-term break, we were treated to over two hours of musical entertainment and quality in the Inter-House Music competition. This featured more than half the school taking to the stage so well done to all pupils involved in it! Ultimately, Elementaita were the winners, but Magadi were incredibly close. The category winners were as follows:

▪ Best Junior Vocal Baraka Wakaba

▪ Best Senior Vocal Maansi Ruparel

▪ Best Junior Instrumental Charlotte Ngure

▪ Best Senior Instrumental Reeyan Gosrani, Darsh Shah, Kheya Shah

▪ Best Instrumental Ensemble Jipe

▪ Best House Choir Elementaita

During half-term, our pupils took part in the Preliminaries of the annual Young Musician’s Competition. Once again, we were delighted that a number of them went on to represent us in the Finals, bringing back trophies, medals and certificates, namely:

▪ Winner – Intermediate Solo – Ruchi Raja

▪ Winner – Open Ensemble

– Mukiri Mugambi

▪ 3rd place – Intermediate Solo – Reeyan Gosrani

▪ Best accompanist – Mr. Laight

A year ago, we hosted the inaugural Peponi School Concert Festival, which featured 250 pupils and 20 members of staff. This is a non-competitive festival allowing ensembles from schools the opportunity to perform and to hear ensembles from other schools. All groups receive comments and a certificate of participation from the adjudicators. This year heralded an enormous increase, reaching 570 pupils, 50 members of staff and nine schools. Well done to all participants and we expect the number to increase even more next year!

The final musical contribution to Hilary term will, of course, be the school’s production of Sweeney Todd. This macabre musical features a cast of over 30 pupils and, altogether, around 50 pupils from across the school have been involved, from painters to back-stage, prop designers and musicians. Good luck!

James Laight Director of Music and Creative Arts

CHARITY

WALK THEME:

“Supporting a needy child to learn in a conducive and safe environment”

It's easy to forget how privileged we truly are, having access to resources that empower us to shape our own futures. However, not everyone shares in this privilege.

Shlok Saini - Lower VI

Charity Committee Report

“Supporting a needy child to learn in a conducive and safe environment”.

Peponi School Charity Committee planned and executed a successful and Charity Walk and fair on Friday, 15th March 2024 at the Northlands ranch. All the pupils and Common Room took part in the walk, which was divided into 3, 5 and 10 kilometers.

The theme of the walk was “Supporting a needy child to learn in a conducive and safe environment”.

The funds raised will be utilised to support our Lower VI pupils in

their Community Service programme next term. We shall construct two permanent classrooms at Kihato Primary School in Laikipia County. The aim is to make the learning environment in this school more enjoyable for learners in the lower classes who learn in semi-permanent dilapidated structures.

We thank all the pupils, staff, parents and other stakeholders for their contribution in making this event a resounding success.

Samuel Njoroge Teacher of Economics and Business

Conservation Society

By Mara Stolarow [ J - Lower VI ]

At the beginning of Michaelmas term, the first pupil run club was founded. The aim of the club was to have a pupil run initiative to learn about and improve the environment in our school community.

So far, we have had great success in making seedballs. These balls are a mixture of clay and soil with seeds in the middle. The purpose of the clay coating is to help protect the seeds from predators like birds, insects, and rodents and protect the seeds from extreme temperatures until the rains arrive. When the seed balls receive moisture, they retain this moisture for longer creating and environment around the seed that promotes germination.

We are hoping to build a community garden next term using these seed balls to improve the flora for the pollinators around school.

We have also built Bird feeders using recycled materials. In the club pupils were divided into small groups to design these bird feeders in an environmentally conscious manner. With the best feeders being made from egg cartons and a milk jug.

Some sessions were spent looking at the importance of pollinators on the environment in Kenya and around the world. One of every three bites of food we eat is dependent on pollinators.

You Are Not Alone Wellness Week Report

The Wellness Week aims to prioritize mental, emotional and physical wellbeing among pupils. It fosters a supportive environment and promotes healthy lifestyle choices. This term, the theme of the wellness week was “You are not alone.”

The week commenced with an inspiring opening ceremony, featuring a guest speaker who emphasised the importance of reaching out for support. The media team also presented a video that highlighted ways in which different pupils and faculty managed their mental health. Throughout the week, pupils took the stage to share thoughts, insights and tips related to mental wellness. These speeches provided a platform for open dialogue, encouraging empathy and understanding within the school community. Topics ranged from stress management techniques to the significance of seeking help when needed.

During the week, interactive sessions were conducted in tutorial sessions to facilitate meaningful discussions surrounding mental health issues. Pupils and tutors addressed topics such as stress management and helping friends who were going through tough times. To promote physical wellbeing and reduce stress, the week culminated with a prep free night where all boarders had a chance to rest and have fun while they enjoyed snacks in the dorms.

The wellness week proved to be a valuable initiative in promoting mental wellbeing among pupils. Through a combination of speeches, activities and conversations, pupils and teachers were empowered to prioritize self-care and cultivate a supportive community. Moving forward, the school remains committed to fostering a culture of wellness, ensuring that the principles introduced during the week are integrated into daily life on campus.

Michelle Wanjiku & Anne Maina

Hilary Term Sports Report

Director of Sport

We continue to witness greater success, year on year through the Hilary term, and not least of which success were offered to a greater extent this year with the introduction of the KAISSO Leagues in both boys’' & girls’ hockey, girls’ football & boys’ basketball.

This term, the Leagues have allowed our teams to gain a near-full experience of a challenge that only the presence of compounding performances can offer, where performance on the day is not what matters most (like in tournaments), but instead how the impact of building a seasons’ worth of performances can culminate in a ‘League Finals’ day. It has certainly made for some much more competitive experiences of

sport, and is something that I hope our young sportsmen and women will look back on fondly during their time here.

This term has also seen the latest instalment of the international tours programme unfold, where our hockey girls from Shell to the Lower Fifth have jetted off to participate in numerous high-profile tournaments in South Africa with the Head of Girls’ Games, Dun Okinyo and hockey coach, Rhoda Kuira. We eagerly await their final report and subsequent publication in the end of year Prizegiving celebrations booklet!

Athletics

As a department, we are always exploring different ways to nurture and celebrate attainment for all young athletes, whether we are officially in-season or off-season. As a result, earlier this term, three of our top sprinters had the opportunity to participate in a major national athletics meet organised by Athletics Kenya at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi.

The three ‘ones-to-watch’, raced alongside the Kenyan giants such as Ferdinand Omanyala, Helen Obiri and Beatrice Chebet just to namedrop a few. Each recorded remarkable times against some very stiff competition in their respective events, where Neema Ruwa clocked in 13.13s in the 100m, Shayan Dewany logged 11.60s in the 100m and Clare Ndegwa in time of 27.38s in the 200m. Their times were entered into the World Athletics data base, firmly solidifying their presence in the pathway to greater opportunities for future years to come. As a department, we are very proud of their resolve and growing confidence.

Hockey

The Peponi U14 hockey tournament was indeed a success despite the untimely wet weather in the first half of term. Nonetheless, after simple wins against Premier, BGE and Oshwal in the pool stages the boys were then prepared nicely to down Hillcrest 4-1 in the semi-finals. Finding themselves then in the same final as the previous year against Turi, the boys all reacted to the prospect with excitement, putting together a great performance to win the final 1-0, and ultimately, take home the first-place trophy & the tournament MVP in Shashwat!

A staple in our hockey fixture programme, our U15 boys & girls travelled to the Hillcrest hockey tournament back in the first half of term where for both teams, performance in the group stages was not quite definitive enough to indicate our progression out of the groups! Nonetheless, the call came over the tannoy that both teams progressed by the finest of margins. After a convincing dominance in semi-final shoot outs against BGE, the girls then played Hillcrest again in the finals, but after a tough match, Hillcrest emerged victorious, with a 1-0 lead. Despite the group stage performances, the boys faced off their opponents in the semis and progressed on nicely into the finals against the old enemy, St. Andrew’s, Turi, where ultimately, after much back & forth in an exciting fixture, Turi emerged victorious.

The inaugural KAISSO Hockey Leagues Finals Day as held at Peponi, saw our U19 & U15 boys’ teams both qualify to compete for the most competitive accolade on the KAISSO circuit. After going up 2-0 within the first 10 minutes of the U19s semi-final, Peponi had a notable early momentum that Turi simply could not answer and allowed the team to progress onto the finals. Likewise, on the U15s side, a hard-fought game against BGR in the semi-final meant the boys could look forward to yet another final match-up against Turi. On the receiving end of a quick two goals in the early stages of the game, our U19 boys couldn’t quite muster the mental resolve before the end of the game to respond as demanded, and ultimately came second to Hillcrest at a 3-1 ending. On the U15s side however, the boys threw out a ringing cheer at the end of the game as they’d finally downed St. Andrew’s in the final when it mattered most, to claim the coveted KAISSO League shield, to now permanently remain in our trophy cabinet as a statement reminder of our expectations for future years to come.

Tennis

This term has seen one of the most competitive tennis tournaments we’ve seen in recent years at our annual Peponi tennis tournament. We welcomed Swedish School, who were highly competitive in the girls’ singles and the mixed doubles, Hillcrest succeeded in the girls doubles and ISK took home gold for the boys’ second-seed singles.

However, no less was expected of our Peponi team, who ended the day with four first-places, and two second-placed finishes to decisively win the tournament to make a clean sweep in the tennis season:

- Doubles seed 1 pairing, Kyle and Aarav won gold medals

- Boys’ second-seed doubles pairing, Aarav & Piers won silver medals

- Boys’ first seed pairing, Reyan & Akira won gold medals

- Mixed doubles second seed pairing Nahla & Piers won Gold

- Girls’ second seed single, Nahla Jeilan won silver

- Boys’ second seed single, Dylan Combrinck won gold

- And last but not least, the captain, Abhay Mohan, against a guest academy player in a thrilling final match to secure his well-deserved silver medal

We would also like to celebrate Heema Shah’s efforts in the girls’ singles tournament throughout the day, who contributed with strength to our overall team points endeavours as well as the confidence of both Aanya K Shah & Tanya Haria, who mustered a fantastic courage to represent the team for their first time as a girls’ doubles pairing!

Swimming

For those unfamiliar, participation in the KAISSO swimming finals is only possible on merit, through a qualificatory process, where the best swimmers from our region – identified from a series of Michaelmas regional school meets – gather to then represent the region. This year at Rosslyn, the following went on to represent a slightly-smaller-than-usual Peponi contingent due to clashes with various other KAISSO tournaments, but nonetheless, represented the School and region with a willing no less expected of any Peponian with:

- Carlo Blunsum winning 2 silvers

- Neema Ruwa winning 2 golds and 1 silver

- Aman Ladak winning 2 golds and 1 silver

Colours

Football

The enthusiasm for girls' football at Peponi remains high, also reflective of significant improvements in the programme. We've transitioned from struggling to field a squad in previous years to having surplus players, with competitive demand to fill up to four teams at times!

This season has been particularly successful, with all three of our teams reaching the semi-finals of the KAISSO Girls Football tournaments. Although the U19 team narrowly missed out on making history by reaching their first final, falling short in a penalty shootout, and the U15A team also narrowly lost in the finals to RVA at Rosslyn, also in a penalty shootout, the progress is undeniable.

Throughout the term, league fixtures were held, including both home and away matches, providing highly impressive and competitive performances despite the challenges faced by the coaches in rotating players to ensure everyone had a chance to play.

While our performance in the league matches didn't meet expectations in missing out on a Finals Day semi-final spot, the opportunity for every member to participate was invaluable for the girls' development and reinforces the

Colours:

Half Colours

importance of cumulative performance.

In addition to the KAISSO tournament and league, the U19 team participated in the WNS and BGE tournaments, broadening their competitive experience.

A special acknowledgment goes to coach Kenfrey Mutugi for his dedication in ensuring that every player had the opportunity to enjoy and excel in football. His hard work has undoubtedly contributed to the growth and success of our girls' football programme this year.

National & international honours from the last term

- Prinay Galaiya – Kenya Cricket U19s touring squad to Uganda

- Shlok Saini – Kenya Cricket U19s touring squad to Uganda

- Muia Kasyima – Kenya Netball U21s touring squad to South Africa

- Teshan Waire – KAISSO Football U15s touring squad to South Africa

- Akram Gubara – KAISSO Football U15s touring squad to South Africa

- Amjad Nsekela – KAISSO Football U15s touring squad to South Africa

Junior Colours

Girls’ Hockey

Boys’ Hockey Girls’ Football Swimming

Saavir Karania

Ryan Gontier

Tara Vora

Fatma Jeilan

Kario Karani

Ruchi Raja

Clare Ndegwa

Raahi J Shah

Prinay Galaiya

Albert Ngugi

Devyn Shah

Mukiri Mugambi

Dhyan Khimasia

Muia Kasyima

Tiara Njoki

Michelle Sigei

Devina Shah

Yetiin Kiplimo

Kario Karani

Rianna N Shah

Ayaan Jessa

Neema Ruwa

Aman Ladak

(2nd award)

Carlo Blunsum

Sweenet ToddSweeney Todd

THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET

SCHOOL EDITION

Message from the Gap Students

George Hughes

Having left Shrewsbury School last year, I was looking for something adventurous and unfamiliar so when I heard about the opportunity to come to Kenya, I eagerly accepted. At the end of this year I’ll be heading to Northumbria to read Sport and Exercise Science and was keen to split up my time before heading directly from school.

Having come to Kenya I know for certain this was the right idea. Becoming immersed in a new culture, exploring the calmness of the coast and Mount Kenya, to the bustling streets of Nairobi, it has all been incredible. Most notably the eye-opening and raw experience of going to Ndini or KCCL each day has truly been something I won’t ever forget, especially how grateful and thankful the kids at those schools are. As I continue to university, I will take away extensive experiences and memories that will stay with me for many years to come.

Thank you Peponi and Kenya!

Oliver Smith

I currently live in Princeton, New Jersey in America but I’ve hailed from many other places. I went to Shrewsbury School for 6th form where I thoroughly enjoyed my time at school. Having been brought up in many different places, my passion for travel is immense and I snapped at the thought of coming to Africa, specifically Kenya as I have a few friends from school here. Upon arrival I realised I had come to the right place greeted by the most friendly people and magical scenery. Kenya shares a similar passion to me with their love for football and I’ve had a great time whether it was playing with the staff and kids or getting harassed by teachers for being a Liverpool fan.

I have made many memories coming to Kenya, the most notable would be climbing Mount Kenya and being at the second highest summit in Africa, unfortunately it was too cloudy to see anything but nonetheless was an amazing experience. From high anticipation to endless lamination, PEPONI has offered me such amazing experiences whether it be coaching basketball or cycling to Ndini, I have loved my time here and I eagerly look forward to coming back. I am headed to Thailand at the end of this month to continue my travels through the spring with aspirations to visit lots of South East Asia and head back to Germany for the European Championships. This fall I will be attending the University of Colorado Boulder to read Economics and Geography.

Formal Dinner 2024

Formal Dinner

The last night of term saw the Hilary Formal Dinner. After the trials and tribulations of an extremely busy Hilary Term, staff and pupils alike relaxed at this popular end of term function.

With live music and ‘best dressed’ competitions, the event served excellently as a final flourish to the term before the holidays. As ever, there are too many people to thank for ensuring it was such a success…but a success it was!

Karl Cook Deputy Head Pastoral

Our Headmaster welcomes you to our Informal Reception at the

Kampala Serena Hotel

Friday, 12th April 2024

From 4.00pm to 8.00pm in the Bambara Lounge

‘Home away from Home’ for your children

▪ Boarding and Day School in Nairobi for ages 13 to 18 years

▪ Excellent airport access

▪ 100% admission to international universities

▪ Vibrant extra-curricular programme and weekend activities

▪ Unrivalled boarding facilities and caring community

Individual appointments available on Friday 12th and Saturday 13th April. Please contact registrar@peponischool.org | www.peponischool.org

All our friends and family in Uganda are welcome. Complimentary drinks and refreshments are available