In case you missed it: May 2024
FOBISIA Primary Mathematics Competition
Pupils from years 5 and 6 were the first Wellingtonians to attend the FOBISIA Primary Mathematics Competition, which took place in Bangkok this year. Competing against the top schools in Asia, our pupils completed a variety of rounds which focused on problem-solving and promoted the valuable skills of collaboration and communication. Our teams finished in 7th and 20th positions, picking up 5 individual test medals along the way.
Maths and Science Accolades
We started the month strong with some maths and science victories from the end of April. 45 pupils from Wellington College participated in the Junior Mathematical Challenge, showcasing their mathematical reasoning, precision and problem-solving abilities. Pupils were able to apply their mathematical knowledge to tackle problems in a fresh and innovative way, building upon what they had learned in the classroom. Wellingtonians performed exceptionally well, earning 36 Global Gold, 7 Global Silver, and 5 Global Bronze awards, with Tony and Iris, two pupils from year 8 and 7 pupils achieving perfect scores! With other great performances by pupils in the Wellington College China maths competition, Shanghai International Primary Maths Challenge (SIPMC) and Shanghai International Secondary Maths Challenge (SISMAC). We look forward to our performance at the upcoming Junior Maths Olympiad coming this month. Several Senior School pupils made an impressive showing at this year’s British Biology Olympiad too. Wellingtonians earned three gold medals, one silver, two bronzes and three pupils received high commendations. Way to go!
Science Week
6-10 May was our annual Science Week. This year’s theme, ‘Time’, offered infinite opportunities to explore every possible manifestation of change that we experience in nature. Pupils experienced a full calendar of demonstrations and activities in chemistry, physics, biology and more as they cooked food with solar ovens, extracted DNA, launched water rockets and even learned how to make a submarine. The week concluded with an exhibition showcasing the work and achievements of our IGCSE and IB pupils. Pupils in years 10 and 12 who studied D&T attended a talk provided by Jaguar Land Rover about how they had evolved their company to keep pace with a changing world. Awards and recognition were given to those projects that had gone the extra mile.
Lower Prep Poetry Slam
The Lower Prep Poetry Slam was a great success this year as pupils competed fiercely for the coveted Golden Mic. Children showcased their confidence, courage and charm through language and poetic structures to raise awareness about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Judges were impressed with the quality of the performances, with one noting, "They are all winners!" Overall, the event was a testament to the power of spoken word and the incredible talent of our Lower Prep pupils.
Summer Festival
Wellington pupils, parents and teachers came together once again for our annual Summer Festival. This year’s theme was ‘Beach Party’, and not even a little bit of rain could dampen our spirits. It proved to be an afternoon of fun in the not-quite-sun as we were treated to musical performances, carnival games and rides, tasty treats and even a massive sandbox! Amid all the good times, our pupils raised over RMB 17,000 for UNICEF’s Children in Emergencies fund, too. Excellent work!
The ‘Be You. Be More.’ Stage
If you walked past the Esplanade during break times last month, you probably could not help but notice all of the talent emanating from one tiny little platform. Our ‘Be You. Be More.’ Stage empowered pupils to share their musical, artistic, academic or even athletic skills. Pupils were invited to sign up to put all manner of performances: magic shows, K-pop dancing, singing, unicycling and even reading a recent science paper!
Spring Dance Showcase
The annual Spring Dance Showcase featured the hard work and creativity of our dance Fellows and Aspirants, who performed works by famous choreographers as well as dances of their own creation. The audience was treated to a variety of styles including classical ballet, Chinese dance, theatre jazz, hip-hop, K-pop and contemporary. The showcase is an important venue for our dancers to gain performance experience, build their repertoire, and experiment with choreography. The dancer's work towards the Showcase performances plays a huge role in developing their technique, artistry and sense of community within the performing arts and the College as a whole.
Early Years Sports Days
Our littlest learners showcased their strength, coordination and sportsmanship with our Early Years Centre sports days. The children showcased a wide range of skills in activities like an obstacle course, throwing games, scooter board races, water games, and a PE-inspired puzzle-building activity. Witnessing the camaraderie and teamwork as they encouraged one another was truly heartwarming. Welly the Lion brought boundless energy, exemplifying the Wellington spirit by cheering on the young athletes. The smiles on the children's faces and the joy shared by the entire community made this Sports Day truly memorable.
Beauty and the Beasts
Our year 4 and 5 pupils delighted audiences with their production of Beauty and the Beasts. This clever rendition flipped the script on a classic fairytale. Written by the talented Mr Hicks, the play revelled in surprises, and our young cast shone, delivering brilliant acting, singing, and dancing performances brimming with commitment and offbeat humour. Their hard work paid off in a thoroughly entertaining, unconventional romp packed with laughs and a refreshingly unique spin on a beloved tale.
Parents Art Workshop
FOW Charity Colour Run
Brainstorm
Parent Open Music Session
Ms Chou welcomed dozens of parents to join their child's regular lesson, and the classroom was buzzing with musical excitement. Pupils and parents collaborated on songs and level of engagement throughout the room was electric. It was wonderful to see relationships strengthened through shared learning. By opening our doors, we created memories that will last far beyond the school year.
Speech Day
On the final day of May, we honoured this year’s Leavers in our ninth annual Speech Day. It was a time for our Class of 2024 to celebrate challenges faced, fears conquered, achievements unlocked, friendships forged, indelible memories made and to look with eager anticipation toward all the great life experiences that await them as they go off to university this coming fall. This year’s cohort has made us proud with offers from some of the world’s finest institutions of higher learning, like Oxford, Cambridge, University College London, Imperial College London, University of Toronto, Vassar College, University of the Arts London and more. Congratulations to you all!
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