THE RAPTOR REPORTER
RELATIONSHIPS | EXCELLENCE | ASPIRATION
IMPORTANT DATES
26 August
Term 1 begins
16 September
Prophet Mohamad’s Birthday
14- 18 Oct*
Midterm Break
SUMMER BREAK REMINDER
Admissions and administration offices will remain open over the break.
Office hours will be:
Monday - Thursday
8:00am - 3:30pm
Friday
9:00am - 12:00pm
AZZAM PRIZE 2024
Granted to Grade 12 for outstanding academic and personal achievement and for demonstrating excellence to the community. Congratulations, Taehyeok Chon.
From the Office of the Principal
FROM MR. MIKE
Dear Parents,
As we conclude another academic year at Raha, I must express my deepest gratitude for your welcome and support. Although I have only been here briefly, it was quickly apparent our school’s power is its community. Your commitment to our school community is invaluable and has played a significant role in our collective achievements over the past term.
There is no escaping from the fact that this year has been challenging for us as a community. However, it should be balanced against our children’s numerous highlights and successes we can all be immensely proud of. Our recent graduations were genuine moments of joy and celebration, marking significant milestones in our children’s lives and for you as parents. Our children have not just achieved, but excelled in various academic pursuits, including the PYPx Exhibition, the World Scholars Cup, and the recent and exhilarating F1 in Schools triumph (Second year running!!!). These successes underscore our commitment to nurturing excellence and fostering a spirit of aspiration among our learners.
Equally impressive were our sporting achievements, where our children showcased their athletic prowess, dedication, and teamwork. The Arts mirrored this success, where our children excelled in the Raha Musician of the Year Awards and the SpongeBob musical. These achievements highlight the holistic development that we strive for in every student.
I am thrilled to share some exciting developments for the upcoming academic year. We eagerly anticipate completing our new primary ground floor, designed to enhance the IB learning experience. This state-of-the-art facility will provide our primary children with a stimulating environment to explore, be creative, and achieve academic success aligned with our IB learning principles. This is just the beginning of our journey towards a more enriched learning environment.
Additionally, we are expanding our after-school clubs, providing even more opportunities for students to pursue their interests and passions beyond the classroom.
From the Office of the Principal
As is the nature of international schools, we sadly will say goodbye to children and staff; we hope your ‘Rahaness’ to your next destination. However, every end welcomes a new start, and we are fortunate to welcome a cohort of exceptional new teachers who bring with them a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm. They will undoubtedly enrich our educational programs and inspire our students to reach their full potential.
We now look forward to the opportunities and challenges of the new academic year. We have already established our critical outcomes for 2024/25, focused on the three key areas: Relationships, Excellence, and Aspiration. I look forward to introducing and working on these with you as parents in September.
Headline goals from 24/25 Strategic Plan.
Once again, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support and dedication. Your individual contributions, no matter how small, have made a significant difference in making Raha a special place.
I wish you and your family a peaceful and relaxing summer vacation.
Mr. Mike
NATIONAL HISTORY BOWL
The National History Bowl is a quiz competition for teams of students, testing knowledge of the history of all eras and all parts of the world.
From the Office of the Vice Principal
FROM MRS. CAROL
Dear Raha Community,
I want to thank everyone reading this for your support, kindness, and care during this very challenging school year. Raha looks very different now to how it looked in Term 1, but it still has the same heart and spirit that it has always had. I am grateful to be a part of this community.
In the midst of all the examinations (IB Diploma, GL tests, ABT, etc.) we thankfully had some fun events such as dress-down days, the Cosmic Dome, amazing field trips, and Spirit Days. Staff Appreciation Week organised by the Parent Team was once again outstanding, and very much appreciated by everyone.
Rather than slowing down towards the end of the school year, Raha picked up the pace with a huge number of opportunities to both learn, and come together to celebrate. In the performing arts, we were treated to the performance of Spongebob: The Musical, and the outstanding Summer Showcase in addition to the recitals happening regularly. Well done to all the talented students and teachers who supported all these performances. The PYPX was once again an impressive culmination of years of learning on the part of our Grade 5 students. Grade 12 Graduation was an emotional event to mark the end of secondary school for our students finishing the Diploma Programme. We also had the chance to mark the end of significant stages of school life during our EY2, Grade 5 and Grade 10 Graduations.
I would like to wish all students, staff and parents a very enjoyable and relaxing summer break, with lots of quality time together, whether it be safe travels, exciting adventures, or fun activities. See you in August!
Best wishes,
Ms. Carol
As we conclude another academic year at Raha, I must express my deepest gratitude for your welcome and support. Although I have only been here briefly, it was quickly apparent our school’s power is its community. Your commitment to our school community is invaluable and has played a significant role in our collective achievements over the past term.
There is no escaping from the fact that this year has been challenging for us as a community. However, it should be balanced against our children’s numerous highlights and successes we can all be immensely proud of. Our recent graduations were genuine moments of joy and celebration, marking significant milestones in our children’s lives and for you as parents. Our children have not just achieved, but excelled in various academic pursuits, including the PYPx Exhibition, the World Scholars Cup, and the recent and exhilarating F1 in Schools triumph (Second year running!!!). These successes underscore our commitment to nurturing excellence and fostering a spirit of aspiration among our learners.
Equally impressive were our sporting achievements, where our children showcased their athletic prowess, dedication, and teamwork. The Arts mirrored this success, where our children excelled in the Raha Musician of the Year Awards and the SpongeBob musical. These achievements highlight the holistic development that we strive for in every student.
am thrilled to share some exciting developments for the upcoming academic year. We eagerly anticipate completing our new primary ground floor, designed to enhance the IB learning experience. This state-ofthe-art facility will provide our primary children with a stimulating environment to explore, be creative, and achieve academic success aligned with our IB learning principles. This is just the beginning of our journey towards a more enriched learning environment.
Additionally, we are expanding our after-school clubs, providing even more opportunities for students to pursue their interests and passions beyond the classroom.
As is the nature of international schools, we sadly will say goodbye to children and staff; we hope your ‘Rahaness’ to your next destination. However, every end welcomes a new start, and we are fortunate to welcome a cohort of exceptional new teachers who bring with them a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm. They will undoubtedly enrich our educational programs and inspire our students to reach their full potential.
URBAN FARMING
We now look forward to the opportunities and challenges of the new academic year. We have already established our critical outcomes for 2024/25, focused on the three key areas: Relationships, Excellence, and Aspiration. I look forward to introducing and working on these with you as parents in September.
Headline goals from 24/25 Strategic Plan.
wish you and your family a peaceful and relaxing summer vacation.
Mike.
Since Term 1, our Sustainability Action Group has been hard at work transforming our school community. Students have spearheaded various initiatives such as composting, bin upcycling, and urban farming, showcasing their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Once again, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing support and dedication. Your individual contributions, no matter how small, have made a significant difference in making Raha a special place.
We’re proud to share that government entities as MAA’N have joined hands with us as sponsors, generously providing materials and knowledge to support our endeavors. This collaboration spans across Early Years, Primary, and Secondary education levels, demonstrating a united effort to make a meaningful impact.
Imagine harvesting your own fresh greens and getting the entire community involved in nurturing our environment.
Let’s continue to creating a greener, more sustainable future, let’s GROW PEOPLE.
RAHA READS DONATION
Students celebrated the joy of literacy and the power of storytelling that brings us all together during International ‘Read to Me’ Day!
The Raha team travelled to London to compete against students from other international schools around the world in London, England. We are truly proud of the work they have done in these competitions.
The Raha community commends these students for their hard work and dedication in preparation for these competitions.
World’s Schoolar’s Cup
Congratulations to the World Scholar’s Cup participants who attended the conference in Baku! Rose, Ruth and Stuti won 1st place in Debate Team. Well done to Rose 2nd place Overall Scholar, Murtaza 5th place Overall Scholar and Ruth 6th place Overall Scholar. Rose, Ruth and Stuti were 3rd place Overall Team.
GRADUATION 2024
Congratulations! We are immensely embark on new journeys, carry the spirit go. Let Raha be your guiding light as you corners of the world. Wishing you all the
THE CLASS OF 2024
proud of your achievements. As you spirit of excellence with you wherever you you pursue your dreams and explore the best for a bright and successful future!
GRADE 10 GRADUATION
Grade 10 students have achieved so much! Now, they are poised to bring out the best of the IB program. Congratulations on reaching this milestone, and here’s to the exciting journey ahead!
GRADE 5 GRADUATION
We honored the growth and agency of all our students at the G5 Graduation! It was a joyous occasion filled with pride and excitement as we reflected on their accomplishments. As an extra special touch, students showcased their best moments on the G5 hub, highlighting memories that will forever be cherished. Congratulations to our graduates. Best of luck in Secondary.
EARLY YEARS GRADUATION
We just loved seeing all our families come together to celebrate each other. We are so proud of each of you and wish you continued success as you embark on this next exciting chapter of your journey.
F1 IN SCHOOLS
What a journey!
F1 IN SCHOOLS
From a student member of the F1 ins schools:
“Imagine the thrill of watching a miniature car, meticulously designed over a year, race past you at the Yas Marina Circuit’s 20-meter mini-track with the click of a button. This was the exhilarating experience our F1 in Schools teams had at the National Finals of this prestigious STEM competition!
F1 in Schools, organized by F1 and YAS in the UAE, challenges students to form F1 teams, create miniature F1 cars using CAD/ CAM tools, and excel in manufacturing, engineering portfolios, testing, and marketing. This year, we proudly presented two professional teams, MENA Racing and Team Zephyros, alongside our rookie team, Vitesse Racing, with Hermes Racing judging.
Raha achieved outstanding success in the competition. Vitesse Racing, our rookie team, amazed with the fastest car, clocking an incredible time of just 1.206 seconds. Both professional teams secured top 10 spots based on track time, but the true achievement lies in the overall scores.
The final rankings considered track performance, verbal presentation, engineering and enterprise portfolios, and pit display—a showcase of sustainability by MENA Racing, who crafted theirs entirely from cardboard.
In a thrilling conclusion, Team Zephyros secured first place overall! This incredible achievement means Team Zephyros will advance to the World Finals, where they will compete against teams from over 30 nations in rigorous challenges spanning four days. They will also have the honor of attending the F1 Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi.”
In preparation for the the World Finals, both Teams are seeking sponsors to support their journey. We invite our community to join us in continuing to support them in this exciting endeavor.
PERFORMING ARTS
Term 3 at Raha concluded with a flourish for Performing Arts, marking a period of vibrant creativity and engagement. The highlight was the lively production of “Sponge Bob Jr. the Musical,” which gave students a chance to explore musical comedy with a fresh, undersea twist. This production not only entertained young families but also allowed students to showcase their talents in a fun and engaging way.
Adding to the excitement, Raha hosted a special afternoon featuring “Matilda the Musical,” where over 140 students interacted with the cast and immersed themselves in the captivating story. This unique opportunity provided students with insight into the world of musical theatre, enhancing their appreciation and understanding of the performing arts.
The term culminated in the traditional Summer Concert, a dazzling showcase of Raha’s most talented students in choir, piano, and various instruments. It was a night filled with impressive performances and highlighted the breadth of artistic talent within the school community. As anticipation builds for the new year, the Performing Arts program at Raha is poised for further growth and exploration, promising even more exciting opportunities for students to shine and express their creativity.
JR. NBA CHAMPIONS
Congrats Champs!
PRIMARY SPORTS AWARDS
A fantastic Primary Sports Awards event. It was amazing to see the enthusiasm and energy our students have for their chosen sports. Well done to the coaches for supporting the students this year!
SECONDARY SPORTS AWARDS
Celebrating the great sports spirit and Raptors legacy! Over two nights, we honored our best athletes for their dedication and discipline. Special mention goes to our basketball teams and triathlon team, who showed their champion
spirit by securing top spots in the UAE. We are immensely proud to announce that a Raha student has been selected to represent their country in the Olympic team—an incredible honor indeed.
Additionally, we recognized our swimming squad, not only for their podium finishes in ADDISA but also for their commitment to training and supporting the POD program, embodying the true spirit of community giving. Congratulations to all our athletes on their remarkable achievements!
OSRAH DAY
Celebrating community spirit is always fun!
ARABIC FINAL ASSEMBLIES
Our Arabic Assemblies this year were bigger and better than ever! Both primary and secondary students showcased their talents through poetry, music performances, a music clip, and even a captivating fashion show. These assemblies not only celebrated our language but also deepened
our understanding of Arabic culture and heritage, making learning a rich and meaningful experience for all involved.
APPRECIATION WEEK AND MONDAY MADNESS
Parents across all grade levels were incredibly generous in providing food for staff. Thank you for your incredible generosity during Staff Appreciation Week! From the delicious meals to the thoughtful gifts and Hollywood red carpet theme, you made our almost 400 staff members feel truly special.
“Monday Madness” with enthusiasm and creativity. We kicked off with Pajama Day, followed by a burst of color.
Crazy Hair Day brought out imaginative styles, from helium balloons to cupcake-inspired hairdos.
One memorable day saw students dressing as teachers, complete with handmade staff. These
themed days not only sparked excitement but also united our school community in a spirit of fun and celebration as we approached the end of the year.
TRIPS AND EXCURSIONS
This year, our students embarked on unforgettable excursions to Tanzania, Nepal, Zayed Great Mosque, Fontana Circus, Sea World, and Bounce. These diverse trips provided invaluable learning experiences outside the classroom, fostering inquiry-based learning and creating lasting memories. Exploring new environments
and cultures not only enriched their education but also developed essential skills for their personal and academic growth.
A massive congratulations to the Grade 5 team for an amazing PYPX! It gets better each year – and the students’ pride in their presentations and research was evident. It takes such a lot of effort and commitment, PYPX G5 EXIHIBITION
G5 EXHIBITION
The Grade 5 Exhibition marks a significant celebration of learning at Raha. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and passion as our students explored their interests and showcased their impact on the community through a symposium. Whether aspiring beekeepers, racing drivers,
philosopher lovers, conservationists, gymnasts, cooks, photographers, or dancers, each student has made a difference. We sincerely thank you for your unwavering support throughout this process and wish our students the best of luck as they transition to secondary school.
