Hong Kong

WOR DRCHKTO SEEK TO SERVE TO STRIVE

5 JANUARY 2009 ISSUE 1

Rooftop Greening Bringing biodiversity to our rooftop

Principal Reflections

WednesdayTuesday Thursday Friday

“The Land of Contradictions”, a term applied to beautiful India, refers to the differing philosophies of Jawaharlal Nehru (the moderniser) and Mahatma Gandhi (the Holy man determined to retain Village life). The recent horror in Mumbai reminds us that our world needs global citizens today. A massacre driven by racial hatred and cultural intolerance inflicted on a nation seeking to build a peaceful world for its people. Until we can all accept multiculturalism as global, mutual respect and tolerance as a universal value, and justice as a right, we cannot begin to meet the challenges that face us now.Our RCHK world is a place where we must strive to live out the values, hopes and expectations we have for the people of earth. Our mission implores this. I have great optimism for the future because I work with the youth of today. RCHK students. Your sons and daughters. RCHK World, the magazine, encapsulates a little of the life of a community of learners seeking to make the world a better place. Renaissance students impact on the world today and in doing so build their intellect, deepen their understanding, live actively, play with passion and serve others. Read, review and reflect.

Principal, Peter Kenny, has been elected to the IB Heads Council for 2009. Mr Kenny was voted into the position by Heads of IB schools in the Asia Pacific, and will represent this region at Council. Mr Kenny takes up this appointment on 1 January, 2009.

Horticulturalist and Outdoor Environmental Educator, Paul Melsom, led students through the process of conceptualising and setting up a rooftop garden during the recent Year 12 CAS Week. A rooftop garden cuts down on energy consumed and is a tangible step for RCHK in our quest to become carbon neutral. Significantly, the garden provides the context for experiential learning and is suitable

for all year levels. This was evident when 5BD joined Year 12 students as the planting phase began on the project. “It is about training students and empowering them to teach others to sustain the project and move it ahead,” explains Jayne Wickins, IB Diploma Geography teacher and Head of Year 11.

NOVEMBER 12 2008

UN Day of Tolerance

2008 United Nations (UN) Day celebrations testified to our growth as a college community. Celebrations took place on 16 November – the annual UN International Day of Tolerance. Food, culture and traditions infused colour around the campus. Significantly, the day sparked dialogue about intercultural tolerance.Renaissance College has been described as a meeting place for local and international families. Such a confluence offers an opportunity for intercultural tolerance to flourish. In this, RCHK is well supported by the International Baccalaureate (IB) emphasis on teaching children about tolerance, human rights, and other ways of life through developing their curiosity and open-mindedness.

the ‘highs’ and ‘lows’ of their daily school lives. They develop conflict resolution skills.” Classroom practices and our international curriculum set the scene for senior students to develop intercultural tolerance: “In English, texts from different countries are studied that require cultural awareness to understand. In Humanities, different regions of the world are studied in depth,” related Year 13 IB Diploma student, Sarah Primmer. “More is done informally and by students themselves. Those at RCHK hail from different countries and everyone is proud to say it.” Year Seven student, Allison Phillips, believes awareness can be promoted in class: “Students from different countries and cultures could do projects and activities together so they can learn about getting along.”Kevin Chung in Year Eight confirms this view: “Future adults (today’s students) must learn to accept the culture and traditions of others by working together.”Our students’ beliefs reflect those of the UN in extolling education as a prolific weapon against intolerance. “Schools should promote intercultural tolerance since this can help establish a harmonious atmosphere within school communities,” insists Year 13 IB Diploma student, John Law. Classmate Hiram Ng agrees:“Yes - as global citizens, intercultural tolerance can help eliminate ignorance in the world.”

Open-mindedness – the beginning of intercultural tolerance - starts early at RCHK. Students in 2CM regularly practice strategies to build tolerance explains Year Two Teacher, Catriona Mortensen:“Students adopted the idea of a Peace Circle as a simple yet meaningful way to ensure each student could communicate

and international families

Time Capsule video booth

Ethnic art banner by Ms McCann’s Public Art CAS group

Ethnic art banner by Ms McCann’s Public Art CAS group

UN Day 2008 celebrations at Renaissance College Year Two peace ambassadors and peace circle, national costumes, RAPT international food stalls,

secondary school and primary school assemblies, launch of ethnic art banners,face painting, celebration of customs, traditions and games

from around the world

a meeting place for local

Schools to Schools Aceh

Schools to Schools Timor Leste

Schools to Schools Cambodia

Above Left to Right Samantha Ho, Crystal Ko, Serena Yu, Fiona Wong renovate a classroom

Left Linn Erixon teaches English to primary school students

Peter Kenny (Principal) talks with Banda Aceh locals in November, 2007

Working with local teachers: Sandra Bushnell (Year Five Teacher) and Allison Stekelenburg (Year Four Coordinator)

A typical primary school in East Timor: the most basic facilities and chronically under-resourced

Twelve RCHK Diploma Programme (IB) students recently traveled to Cambodia to participate in an IB Schools to Schools project. Led and planned by teachers Steve Reid and Magriet Faber, the project saw students renovating classrooms and teaching English as part of their Year 12 CAS Week. Visits to Cambodia’s Killing Fields, Prison S-21, the ancient ruins of

Angkor Wat and the many markets exposed the students to the region’s culture and history. “We learned a lot about others, but also about ourselves,” concluded Year 12 student, Linn Erixon. Funds to refurbish two classrooms were raised by RCHK students through Crazy Hair Day and the sale of Christmas cards.

Schools to Schools project was founded in the wake of the Asian tsunami in December, 2004, by former IB Head of Projects, and present RCHK Principal, Peter Kenny. The project encourages IB World Schools to establish long-term links with schools in tsunami-affected regions to provide support and facilitate reconstruction. The network has expanded worldwide to include any project aimed at improving access to education and provides schools with a framework to connect with other schools. Figures suggest over 2,500 teachers went missing or were killed in the 2004 tsunami. “This has resulted in teacher training being necessary,” explains project pioneer and Year Four Coordinator, Allison Stekelenburg. “IB World Schools, like Renaissance College, have responded to this need by making connections with teacher training projects in tsunami affected regions.” RCHK teachers Sandra Bushnell and Allison Stekelenburg planned and facilitated a three-day teacher-training workshop in Banda Aceh in November, 2008. Collaborating with two Indonesian workshop leaders, they co-led a workshop to 42 participants from schools around Banda Aceh.

The peoples of Timor Leste have struggled against the effects of civil strife through colonisation, occupation, and more recently in finding their way as a newly independent nation. School facilities are rudimentary and staffed by teachers who have little or no training. Paper and pencils are often non-existent. Many children leave school unable to read and write. RCHK Primary Vice Principal, Ann Green, is leading RCHK initiatives to make a difference: “We are developing a partnership with Blair Forster Memorial Trust, a local charity that works to improve education in Timor Leste.”

War of the Worlds

Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre

Renaissance College and Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre present

When students and staff at Renaissance College embarked on the theatrical voyage of War of the Worlds it was the beginning of a journey beyond what they might have imagined. Set in 1938 CBS studios and re-enacting Orson Welles’ terrifying broadcast of invading Martians, the RCHK production saw narrators of the radio play become lost in the fantasy as they begin to re-enact the Martian invasion themselves. War of the Worlds marked a significant step forward for performing arts at the college with the collaboration between RCHK and the highly regarded Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre Company. “Physical theatre was a completely new direction for students at the college,” reminds Angela Liu, Head of Performing Arts. “It is highly demanding physically and mentally. We were ambitious to take up such a project so early into our school’s development, but students really pulled through. It has been a steep learning curve, and ultimately represents a remarkable achievement,” she resounds. War of the Worlds saw students involved in all areas of production, from members of cast to technical crew, make-up and costume, and production team. “I am used to being on stage and so I’ve never thought much about all the preparations and behind stage,” reflected Year 13 student and Assistant Stage Manager, Fredrika Frimanson. Students attested to the immense drive and support of Shane Jones (Director), Angela Liu (Producer), and Leslie Stellwagen (Assistant Producer) throughout the five-week residency project.

Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre Company is an Australian based ensemble at the forefront of contemporary performance and training in physical theatre. RCHK collaboration with the company in War of the Worlds created the opportunity for students to gain authentic experiences of theatre in the making, and to work with people who make a living from theatre. Zen Zen Zo call their five-week residency programmes with schools “Breaking Boundaries” – and for good reason. Under direction from Shane Jones, Associate Artist and Director of Zen Zen Zo, the student cast withstood the grueling physical training and production schedule while maintaining regular schoolwork and responsibilities. “The preparation for this production was extremely intense with the late hours and the weekend practices,” attested cast member and Year Ten student, Rachel Mazariegos. “Overcoming these challenges was very rewarding and I learned to balance out my time and cope under stress.”

“Every performance is a journey” Fredrika Frimanson

Yasodara Karunaratne

Kevin Leung

“A memorable experience was when I had the opportunity to play with the famous tennis legends Andre Agassi and Steffi Graff”

“In order to be an elite musician, good demonstration of skills is needed, but the most important thing is that you have to be passionate about music”

Ability, interest, persistence. Just ask Year Ten scholarship student, Yasodara Karunaratne, how these factors come together to spell “success” on and off the tennis court. Since becoming the Under 10 national tennis champion in Sri Lanka, she has maintained her strong academic record and involvement in school life at the international schools she has attended. Throughout the year Yasodara competes in international tennis tournaments and Master Class training events. In July, 2008, she traveled to Los Angeles to participate in three US Tennis Association ranking tournaments, making quarter-finals and semi-finals in singles, and runner-up in doubles at two tournaments. Mental fitness plays a key role in Yasodara’s continued success: “An elite athlete should have the right attitude towards the game; also, a strong mentality, determination and the physical capacity,” she shares with RCHK World. Since being at RCHK Yasodara has developed a real interest in sciences and presently has her further education sights set on medicine at an Ivy League university in the United States. Her winning attitude will no doubt help her on the path to achieving this goal.

“Maintaining a scholarship is even harder than getting one,” Year Ten music scholarship student, Kevin Leung, confides. That being said, Kevin’s self-discipline and self-motivation enable him to achieve a life balance, and are key factors in Kevin’s general success.Kevin’s music practices, performances and mentoring roles keep him busy inside and outside school. On 2 November he performed clarinet with Hong Kong Youth Wind Philharmonia (HKYWP) at Hong Kong City Hall. On 31 January, 2009, he will perform in the HKYWP annual concert. More performances are scheduled throughout next year. At college Kevin is a key member of clarinet choir and A Orchestra. He lends assistance to B Orchestra and accompanies in college musical performances, such as the upcoming Year Six production of Mikado. “I like being at RCHK. The teachers are always inspiring, and I’m praised for my creativity and curiosity rather than being scolded for asking questions in class,” he concludes.

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1 Bernard Chow, Antti Reponen 2 Catherine Tang, Connie Li 3 Darryl Soh, Michelle Li, Abbas Parvin Perez 4 Kathleen Greene, Tiffany Chan 5 Kevin Leung, Marcus Lam, George Jones 6 Shirley Foo, Grace Tsang 7 Sharon Lo, Yasodara Karunaratne, Joyce Wong 8 Louis Kang, Sarah Primmer, Mimi Leung 9 Lars Linder, Krunal Tejwani 10 Cindy Li, Shirley Lu, Samantha Ho11 Tracy Kan, Harry Hui, Kelly Wong 12 Jayme Hui, Jocelynn Chu

Yasodara Karunaratne

Kevin Leung

Scholarship Programme

Be the change, make the difference

Samantha Ho

Domino Effect Leadership Programme leaders Left to Right Nsika Mintjens-Dube, Samantha Ho (scholarship student)Alexandra Ding, Charlene Cher

Your aspirations are your possibilities Samuel Johnson (1709 to 1784) English poet, essayist, moralist, novelist, literary critic, biographer, editor and lexicographer

“When asked: “What does it take to be a scholarship student at Renaissance College?” I always return with the question: “What qualities do you think embody a scholarship student?” Unfailingly, the response closely matches our Renaissance College Scholarship Programme selection criteria,” tells RCHK Principal, Peter Kenny. Thirty students are currently enrolled in the 2008 – 2009 Renaissance College Scholarship Programme, each of them having passed through a detailed and rigorous selection process. Scholarship selection criteria is based on demonstrated and potential academic ability, artistic and creative aptitude, and a commitment to contribute to the college community and beyond through service and leadership. Presently the college offers two

scholarship types: Academic and Music. Appropriate to our college name – Renaissance College - the qualities of an “ideal” scholarship student are drawn from the ideal “Renaissance person”. The Renaissance ideal places emphasis on the full development of a person’s mental and physical capacities. When making the decision to admit a student to the scholarship programme we look for someone who is well rounded in a variety of subjects, who is a holistic thinker because of their ability to work with others in diverse contexts, and who understands the links and connections between various disciplines and people. Scholarships (100% of tuition fees) are available for students from Year

7 to Year 13 entering or continuing at the college in August, 2009.

Please email info@renaissance.edu.hk to request a Scholarship Folio. Be sure

to include your name, postal address and student’s current age and year level.

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1 Bernard Chow, Antti Reponen 2 Catherine Tang, Connie Li 3 Darryl Soh, Michelle Li, Abbas Parvin Perez 4 Kathleen Greene, Tiffany Chan 5 Kevin Leung, Marcus Lam, George Jones 6 Shirley Foo, Grace Tsang 7 Sharon Lo, Yasodara Karunaratne, Joyce Wong 8 Louis Kang, Sarah Primmer, Mimi Leung 9 Lars Linder, Krunal Tejwani 10 Cindy Li, Shirley Lu, Samantha Ho11 Tracy Kan, Harry Hui, Kelly Wong 12 Jayme Hui, Jocelynn Chu

Scholarship student, IB Diploma student, student leader.

Samantha Ho wears many leadership hats. RCHK World asked Samantha’s

perspectives on student leadership at our college:

RCHK World: What could we do to further promote student leadership at RCHK?

Samantha: We could introduce more student leadership roles … We could have a wider range of separate roles so more students can be involved … When the roles are more specifically defined, it is easier for students to step up and volunteer to take part.RCHK World: What connections do you see between student leadership and school curriculum?

Samantha: Student leadership is essential to the communication of ideas from the students through to the school. It allows students to voice their opinions in a way that will be heard by school authorities. IB programmes encourage students to take the initiative to explore what they want to learn academically. Student leadership reflects these ideas as it gives students the opportunity to take the initiative to improve things at school.

Great things can happen at schools when students believe they can make a difference. Domino Effect Leadership programme is providing the opportunity for student leadership

to emerge at RCHK. Facilitated by Ms Syed, motivated secondary school students have been working with other students in Hong Kong to develop key skills and

understandings about leadership and possible roles in their schools. Domino Effect participant, Alexandra Ding, aptly summarises

what it takes to lead: “Honesty, ability to listen to others, and the courage to change

the world.”

Jocelyn Kwan Author

Clement Chan Writer

Michelle Lau Artist

We are delighted to have Year Seven student and author, Jocelyn Kwan, tell us about her book, Figure Skating for Gold: It began in Year Six when my teacher, Mr Benefield, encouraged us to enter a story writing competition sponsored by Room to Read (RTR). The winner would have their story published. I love to write, and have always wanted to have my own book published. We had to write a story about a dream that we really want to come true. I realized how I longed to be an ice-skater and win a medal. I had found my idea. I got to work on the story then the illustrations. I submitted everything and waited … During summer I found out my book had been chosen. I was overjoyed! Next I met my editor, Mio Debnam, and she helped me improve my story and gave advice on illustrations. An idea she gave me was to dress my characters in school uniform sometimes. In my book you see my characters dressed in RCHK uniform. I had to draw a few more pictures according to Mio’s ideas. To do that, an artist sketched sample illustrations and I made my own version of the drawing. My editor picked the best ones to put in the book. That’s the story of my book.

A passion and talent for art has opened a world of opportunities for Year 12 IB Diploma student, Michelle Lau. In May, 2008, Michelle was invited to Macedonia to participate in The Small Montmartre of Bitola competition where she won the Best Individual Award from a tough field of international youth competitors. In October, 2008, she was

A short story inspired by childhood experiences has earned public accolades for young writer and Year Ten student, Clement Chan. Judges in the 14th Competition on Story Writing in Chinese for Students in 2008 bestowed Clement the award of Distinction in the Junior Secondary Category. Clement’s winning entry is titled Grandmother’s Old House. The competition is organised by the Hong Kong Public Libraries and receives several thousand entries each year.

invited to Belgrade and Nice to receive two art awards and to compete in the Joy of Europe Art Festival, one of Europe’s largest art festivals. “I met many different people and was interviewed by the local media. I have made lots of friends around the world throughout all these art competitions and festivals,” related Michelle. Closer to home, Michelle’s work was chosen to be exhibited in Beijing during the 2008 Summer Olympics. One of her designs was used as the motif covering a model horse, created to celebrate Equestrian events. The model now appears at the entry to the Headquarters of the Hong Kong Jockey Club in Happy Valley. Michelle says the Visual Arts programme at RCHK has enabled her to experiment with many different techniques of drawing, as well as allowing her to try new styles and take risks. With the world wanting to know more about her art, what are her plans for the future? Michelle muses thoughtfully: “I want to study architecture at university or even art therapy, as well as continuing with overseas competitions.”

Young author, Jocelyn Kwan, signs copies of her book at the College Fair, November, 2008

Renaissance College Fair

Welcome to RAPT LimitedWe are pleased to report that RAPT is now incorporated. From now on RAPT will be known as Renaissance Association of Parents and Teachers Limited (RAPT Limited). By achieving this status, our parent organisation can now plan and carry out activities and business under better governance. Furthermore, they are granted by the HKSAR Inland Revenue Department charitable institution status. Remember to ask for a receipt for your tax claims when you next make a donation to RAPT Limited.Note: RAPT Limited Co-Chair, Eric Chin, has been elected Vice Chairman, Committee of Parents (ESF)

What makes a community worth belonging to? For those who enjoyed the extravaganza of our second annual College Fair on 29 November, the answer seems evident: authentic community spirit. Our stalwart parent organisation (RAPT Limited) is the keeper of that community

spirit at RCHK. “The College Fair is fast becoming the pride of the college community,“ identifies RAPT Limited Co-Chair, Eric Chin. Many contributed time and resources to make this College Fair a huge success. Our heartfelt thanks go to parent

and tireless Fair Coordinator, Charron Robertson, and her industrious Fair Sub-committees. This year’s event raised over HK$500,000. Proceeds will fund projects that support learning objectives at the college.

RAPT Limited donated proceeds from the December, 2007, College Fair to fund playground refurbishment. Co-chairs Davina Lloyd and Eric Chin pictured at the official opening with Principal, Peter Kenny

The College Fair is fast becoming the pride of the college community

Eric Chin

LiteratureCircles

Schools to Schools Myanmar update

Starfish Bay update

Reading in ActionOne of the aims of the Library and Information Resource Centre (LIRC) is to stimulate a love of reading, learning and inquiry. Literature Circles provide the perfect opportunity to achieve this aim. What are “Literature Circles”? Small, temporary discussion groups comprised of students who have chosen to read the same book.

Year Seven Literature CirclesYear Seven students are currently involved in such an activity. We meet once a week in the Library during English class armed with our post-it notes, and book. Students agree to read two books over six weeks and use the post-it notes to note interesting, worrying, inspiring or sometimes just difficult to understand words. These notes form the basis of their follow-up discussion. Because there is choice in selection and student-centered discussions, Literature Circles are fun while catering for diversity in learning styles and individual differences.

Our Schools to Schools fundraising efforts continue to contribute to the rehabilitation of the Growing Together School in Pyin Htaung Kyaung, Thanlyin Township, Myanmar. The school building was destroyed in the May, 2008, tropical cyclone. RCHK Schools to Schools fundraising efforts from events such as Crazy Hair Day, and sales generated from our College Fair stall contribute to the following infrastructure development in Thanlyin:

Reconstruction of twelve homes• “Child Friendly Spaces” and basic schooling for children from needy families• Provision of two temporary classrooms and 3 full time camp leaders• Learning supplies (drawing and writing books, textbooks)• Forming of a cooperative that encourages poorer families to become self-reliant through efforts in agriculture•

Joint Director of the Growing Together School, Khaing Zar, emphasised the significance of our role in making a difference: “We are greatly thankful for your support…(with your help) we are fortunate to be able to contribute to building a brighter future for as many children as we can.”

Year Seven students engaged in Literature Circles

Photographs show the rehabilitation of the Growing Together School in Myanmar

Renaissance College has made a commitment to foster, develop and sustain a college wide service project at Starfish Bay. In April, 2008, RCHK primary and secondary school sections assisted with transplanting of starfish into Starfish Bay. Secondary school focus has been upon cleaning up the beach, tracking and monitoring marine life along the shores of the bay, and sampling the quality of water. Primary school students have supported this fieldwork through involvement in the Challenge co-curricular programme.

a love of reading, learning and inquiry

Year 11 Personal Project

Christian Action Holiday Party

Group 4 Project

Anna Wong and Beverly Tung investigate the effect of air pressure on the distance traveled by a volleyball

Aggie Au Yeung, Harry Hui and Mai Saito investigate the effect of launch angle on the range of a javelin

Christian Action Holiday Party at RCHK, 6 December, 2008

Year 13 IB Diploma students recently participated in the Group 4 Project, a compulsory part of the IB Diploma Programme in which all students must take part. The unifying theme of “Science in Sport” was chosen, drawing inspiration from this, our Olympic year. Group 4 Project is an interdisciplinary science project. It brings together students from different disciplines for the purposes of communication and teamwork, and enables them to work on a small individual experiment that feeds into a larger project. A feature of the Project is the chance for students to undertake fieldwork in the “real world” outside the laboratory. “Science teachers were delighted with the quality of work produced,” expressed Head of Science, Brian McCann.

Dianne Yang benefits from the experience of her project advisor and Year Six Teacher, Christine Buchholtz

Ruby Kan discusses research approaches with RCHK Middle Years Programme Coordinator, Grant Rogers

The Personal Project plays a pivotal role in preparing MYP middle school students for the Diploma Programme (DP). They apply knowledge and skills they have developed throughout the MYP and apply them in a specific inquiry-based project. The work produced is the product of the student’s own initiative and creativity. Students choose their project and work under the supervision of a teacher in the school as they plan, research, and reflect; emphasis is placed on process. RCHK World interviewed two current Year 11 students to find out more:

The joy of giving and receiving was experienced by Ming House teachers and students at the 6 December Christian Action Holiday Party. Christian Action provide humanitarian assistance to asylum seekers and refugees in Hong Kong, and the RHCK event was attended by 200 of Christian Action’s clients. After a magnificent meal served by Chartwells, guests enjoyed activities planned by Ming House students. The highlight of the afternoon for children was the receiving of presents from the Christmas Giving Tree. “Parents were overjoyed by the generosity shown them and their children. Today we were reminded that when you give you also receive,” contemplated organiser and Ming House Director, Jason Davis.

Ruby Kan Project: How Scouting activities have changed over time “I chose this project because I am a Scout and have an interest in Scouting history. I am making two journals on the Experimental camp in 1907 and the 21st World Scout Jamboree (WSJ) in 2007, comparing and contrasting the activities in both camps.”“The Personal Project is different from an essay or other academic research projects. It requires self-motivation as it can be hard to find suitable information.” “The DP requires good research, planning and time management skills, so I’m having a taste of the workload. Moreover, I’ve found there are work opportunities for scouts.”

Dianne Yang Project: Love to Burkina Faso“I want to raise awareness about needy children, and bring hope by education. I’m collecting stationery for orphan children in Burkina Faso with the help of the Burkina Faso embassy.”“I’m inspired by a church member, Dr Allen Lian, who devotedmany years to enhance the lives of orphans in Burkina Faso. Living in Hong Kong and studying in an international school reminds me how blessed I am. I want to help children who are less fortunate.”“To define the orphan’s needs I have researched the country, and the children’s environment and living situation.”“The project is also helping to prepare me for the IB Diploma.”

Year Six Work Day

Jasmine Korng Artist

Year Four Products

ESF Schools Orchestra Jam Our second annual Year Six ‘Take Your Child To Work Day’ was a great success, with all 130 Year Six students experiencing the world of work. “This learning engagement was planned as part of the Unit of Inquiry Work and Leisure,” conveyed Ellen Manson, Year Six Coordinator. Students experienced first hand the work of an airline pilot; a fireman; an engineer; a piano teacher; a designer to name but a few. Tasks students were asked to complete while ‘at work’ included: conducting an interview; making connections to the IB Learner Profile; asking key questions in order to better understand the nature of the workplace, and to take photographs to record their experiences. The Year Six teaching team sincerely thanks all parents and RCHK staff who supported this unique initiative.

Year Three student, Jasmine Korng, was awarded Champion in The SMART Drawing Competition, held in September, 2008. The theme was My Dream House. The competition was designed to raise awareness of conserving energy or the use of environmentally friendly materials. Jasmine described her inspiration for the winning entry: “My house is a recycled house. It is in a tree because I think it is fun to live in a tree,” she explained. The recycled house is made of hard plastic (walls and roof), metal (ladder) and glass (window). The door is from an old house. “My favourite part is the river with the animals because I care about animals,” said Jasmine.

Renaissance College hosted the ESF Primary Orchestra Jam, held on 26 November. Over 200 children from schools in English Schools Foundation, including Renaissance College, were involved. RCHK Music Specialist, Paul Leggatt, was instrumental in making the day a success. Accomplished violinist and Year Five student, Jonathan Leung, reflected on the day: “It is always good to have more chances to play violin. We had fun and worked well together.”

Year Four students showed what inquiry in action looks like with their recent investigation into market places and products. Each class

examined our RCHK community needs and then set about designing a product that would meet those needs. Students were responsible for designing, planning and promoting their product. Products then literally went to market – being sold at our College Fair. “Students

took ownership of the processes and products. It was a “hands on” learning experience,” observed Year Four Teacher, Mike Hansen.

Education does not begin or end in the classroom or examination hall and the most essential elements of education

may exist outside of both IB Creativity, Action, Service, 1996“My house is a recycled house”

“It is always good to have more chances to play violin. We had fun and worked well together.”

Jonathan Leung

Jasmine Korng

Further Education Focus

Year 12 CAS Week

Artist in Residence

UK Mini Universities Fair at RCHK, November, 2008

Further Education Counselors Aletha Rossiter and Gigi Lam at the recent Council of International Schools conference

Year 12 IB Diploma students embraced the spirit of learning outside the classroom from 17 to 21 November with

involvement in a diverse range of activities in Hong Kong and further away in Cambodia. The PADI open-water diving course was completed by RCHK students at Hoi Ha. CAS Coordinator, David Chilton, emphasised the link between the course and school-led and community based project involvement, such as Starfish Bay: “We hope these students will follow other RCHK divers in using this skill to carry out marine conservation work in Hong Kong.” Superb weather and warm waters set the scene at Hebe Haven Yacht Club where students learned to sail.

Afternoons were spent on directed beach clean-up expeditions in the Sai Kung area. Students developed their sense of community with participation in service projects in Hong Kong and Cambodia. Our students’ ties with refugee families at Christian Action were deepened during the course of the week, as was our involvement with the NGO, Crossroads. One hardy group spent a week getting their hands dirty by setting up the college rooftop garden. Cambodia was a destination for a number of students who were eager to take part in an IB Schools to Schools project. RCHK students taught English and renovated classrooms.Teaching staff and CAS Coordinator, David Chilton, were rewarded for hours spent organising and implementing these programmes with the enthusiasm and commitment displayed by our Year 12 student participants.

Education does not begin or end in the classroom or examination hall and the most essential elements of education

may exist outside of both IB Creativity, Action, Service, 1996

UK artist Ian Murphy came to RCHK in October to work with the Year 12 IB Visual Arts students. Ian began by showing examples of his own artwork based on architecture from different cultures from his traveling. He also shared some of the techniques and methods that he uses to create his art. The students then took inspiration from their own surroundings to create their own artwork.

University Visits to RCHKRenaissance College has been host to over 15 university visits since August, 2008. Our IB Diploma students have benefited from the opportunity to develop close links to further education institutions in Europe, Australasia, North America, and Hong Kong.

Further EducationFurther Education Counselors, Gigi Lam and Aletha Rossiter, attended the Council of International Schools (CIS) conference in Monaco in November. The CIS conference enabled our staff to develop close contacts with some of the best universities around the world, highlighting our school and students’ strengths and at the same time gaining a better understanding of the types of students different institutions are seeking. “Even though RCHK is a relatively new school, we are already gaining a reputation as a leading IB school in Hong Kong,” remarked our Further Education Counselors.

ISSFHK Sports

ESF Soccer HK Rugby Representative

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Year Two Real Learning

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At Renaissance College we believe that sport and physical education is an integral part of the physical and social development of our students. The International Schools Sports Federation of Hong Kong (ISSFHK) offers our students the opportunity to take part in an organised interscholastic sports competition against various international schools within the Hong Kong community. The ISSFHK is a stage for students represent their school and demonstrate their sporting talents. Students are involved in a wide variety of sports including, swimming, football, volleyball, cross-country running, basketball, tennis, golf and more. Thank you to students, coaches and parent volunteers for their contributions to the Block One sports programme.

Climbing: Year 8 to Year 13

Girls Field Hockey: Year 7 to 11

Boys Football (Soccer): Under 14, Under 12: Year 7, 8 and 9

Girls Football (Soccer): Under 14, Under 12: Year 7, 8 and 9

Golf: Year 7 to Year 12

Karate: Year 7 to Year 13

Pedal Kart: Year 9 to Year 13

Scuba Diving: Year 10 to Year 13

Swimming: Year 7 to Year 13

Taekwondo: Year 7 to Year 13

Touch Rugby: Year 7 to Year 12

Boys Volleyball: Under 20, Under 16, Under 14: Year 7 to Year 13

Girls Volleyball: Under 20, Under 16, Under 14: Year 7 to Year 13

Four players training at Renaissance College for ESF Soccer recently received trophies from coach Angus as a reward for their hard work and effort in training. The players are Donald Leung, David Kim, Jason Cheung, and So Chun Hei. Congratulations to these very talented players from all the coaches at ESF Soccer.

Renaissance College secondary student, Mitch Swift, has experienced success on the rugby field in past months. Mitch cut through a competitive field to represent Hong Kong in the International Youth Tournament held in Hong Kong in November. This is a remarkable achievement considering this is his first season of playing contact rugby.

The Year Two Unit of Inquiry about Games has drawn on the expertise of the outside community to enhance learning. Guests

from local rugby and hockey club organisations and toy companies showed students the importance of following rules and developing

skills in order to enjoy games. “Using the knowledge and skills of members of the wider community makes learning experiences

real for children,” emphasised Year Two Teacher, Lynne Scollay. Thank you to: The Flying Kukris, Kowloon Cricket Club Hockey Section,

Dean Tzembelikos, Rhys Bradley

Block One CAS Sports

James Johnston Sailing

Sunny and Anny Fung

OxfamTrailwalker

It is official. Renaissance College is the schools division winner of the 2008 Hong Kong Pedal Prix. The outstanding result is testament to the interest and persistence of students and staff involved in the race, whose efforts raised tens of thousands of dollars for Hong Kong charities. The grueling 24-hour event was held at Victoria Park over the weekend of 22 and 23 November, and strong team support proved a vital source of inspiration throughout the race. “Students looked visibly chuffed and definitely pedaled faster whenever they spotted someone familiar from the school. We are very grateful for the supervision provided by teachers and parents,” emphasised RCHK Pedal Prix Coordinator, Adriaan Van Wijk.

A growing interest in sailing at the college has been boosted by the achievements of Year Seven student, James Johnston. Representing Hebe Haven Yacht Club, James participated in the Asian Optimist Sailing Championships held in Doha, Qatar, from 24 October to 2 November.James finished the regatta with an overall international rank of 44, and a Hong Kong squad rank of 2. At 11 years of age, he was the youngest Hong Kong squad member and one of the youngest to participate in the event. For those not familiar with Optimist, it is the

2008 Hong Kong Inter-School Cycling Race Series RCHK students and siblings, Sunny and Anny Fung,

emerged champions in the 2008 Hong Kong Inter-School Cycling Race Series. Sunny, a current Year 7 student,

placed first in overall results for the Primary School Boy Group. Sunny’s younger sister, Anny,

placed first in the overall results for the Primary School

Girl Group.

RCHK staff entered the annual Oxfam Trailwalker event for the third year running. The 2008 team comprised teachers Terry Hasler, Shane McCann, Jason Davis, and Jon Field. Held on 7 and 8 November, this taxing endurance event saw participants walk 100km of the MacLehose Trail. The team raised HK$28000 for charity, reaching the target necessary to enter a team in the event next year. Thank you to our college community for your support.

only dinghy approved by the International Sailing Federation solely for sailors under 16 years of age.

The final standings and race statistics of the two teams entered by RCHK were as follows:RCHK 1 (yellow): 1st place schools category, 1st place karbyk category, distance = 796 laps (578 km), average speed = 24.0 kph, fastest lap = 1 min 31 secs (Jonathan Tam)

RCHK 2 (black): 4th place schools category, 3rd place karbyk category, distance = 712 laps (517 km), average speed = 21.5 kph, fastest lap = 1 min 32 secs (Felix Yeung)

Last year RCHK entered a small team in the race for the first time and over 600 laps later successfully won the “karbyk” category. Thank you to secondary science teachers, Adriaan Van Wijk and Alan McIntyre, who have been driving forces behind Pedal Prix at the college leading up to this year’s race.

Anny Fung

James Johnston mixes sailing with sightseeing in Doha, Qatar

Sunny Fung

RCHK Pedal Prix Champions

Visual Arts Primary

Student Viewpoints Intercultural Tolerance

See what has been happening in Primary Visual Arts with teachers Jane Bell and Kellie Dufty. Please view the new Visual Arts page under Primary Years - PYP on our college website: www.renaissance.edu.hk/content.php?contentid=189

1 Matisse’s Goldfish bowl Jonathan Lee 3HB 2 Pastel portraits and recycled hats Melanie Chan Mazariegos 4CV 3 Clay bells Beatrice Sung 1MF 4 Hundertwasser and Klimt horses Martin Groves 5BD

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Christmas Giving Tree

One hundred gifts One hundred children

Our college community gave generously again this year to the Christmas Giving Tree. This initiative of RCHK teachers and charitable institution, Christian Action, brought joy into the lives of 100 children seeking asylum and refuge in Hong Kong. Gift receiving took place on 6 December at a Christmas Party held for the children and their families at the college. Organised by RCHK teachers Chris Bucholtz, Gillian De Melo, and Therese Owen

In our inaugural RCHK World it is fitting that those who will be shortly making their way in the world outside of

Renaissance College have the last word. Year 13 IB Diploma students Hiram Ng, Sarah Primmer and John Law

were invited to put forth their ideas on the notion of intercultural tolerance, following in dialogues brought out

of the college’s celebration of the UN International Day of Tolerance on 16 November.

RCHK World: Do we need to be tolerant of intolerance?Sarah: Ideally tolerance would be limitless, but often this is difficult. It is challenging to accept someone who, fundamentally, does not want to be around you or talk to you.John: We cannot tolerate intolerance since the abusive acts that might result will infringe upon the rights of others. It is necessary to take action against intolerance to prevent the spread of violence and hostility. Hiram: We should always try to go beyond tolerance; that is, we must strive to eradicate intolerance through different ways; through education. RCHK World: Some might say intercultural tolerance is about simply being included?Sarah: If inclusion means that you simply allow someone to sit next to you, rather than put your back to them, then that is not enough. John: It is not only about being included. We must also show respect to people who are from different cultures and language backgrounds.Hiram: Inclusion should go beyond physical proximity - it should embody acceptance and respect for everyone on campus. Being ‘included’ is not enough; you should be actively engaged with the people around you.

RCHK World: Should schools bother talking about intercultural tolerance?Sarah: If a tolerant environment already exists, why preach to students? If students rarely have the chance to interact with those from other cultures or linguistic backgrounds, then it should be talked about. John: Schools should promote intercultural tolerance since this can help establish a harmonious atmosphere within the school community.Hiram: Yes - as global citizens, intercultural tolerance can help eliminate ignorance in the world.

RCHK World: How will you draw upon your intercultural experiences at RCHK after you leave school?Sarah: Wherever I end up, I will expect a similar level of cultural awareness and tolerance as I have experienced in Hong Kong and at RCHK. If it doesn’t... well, I guess I’ll have to do something about it.John: To continue to show integrity and respect toward different cultures I encounter.Hiram: The knowledge that just as it spikes your pride when your cultural background is questioned, others feel the same as well. It is essential to have an open mind about things.

Left Sarah Primmer, John Law and Hiram Ng