Exploring species on planet Earth

During a fall term exploring the concept of biodiversity, students learned how organisms are organized scientifically by classification, using distinguishing characteristics. They then had to observe and research various creatures, and determine which classification they fit into and why.

Putting the diversity into biodiversity

Taking their knowledge into art class, teacher Michelle Crath first had the students sketch invertebrates individually and examine which species’ had the morphological criteria that could result in a hybrid animal. After establishing which species’ could feasibly be combined, students merged two sketches into one, which they then rendered in sculptures.

The result, according to science teacher Ulrik Bedos, was “the students created unique and imaginary creatures, but ones that, in theory, could be possible animals.”

Bruce Poon Tip, a parent of two TFS students, is the founder of G Adventures (formerly GAP Adventures). The title of his talk will be “Believe in Change: New Leadership in a New World”.

Invited guests from Toronto and Mississauga mingled over wine and hors d’oeuvres, before being welcomed by Headmaster, John Godfrey, and Chair of the Board of Directors, Colin Chapin.

You want who to be Governor General?
The podium was turned over to Guidance Counsellor Krista Bryndza, who introduced herself and English teacher Jenny Arseneau, and spoke about the Debating Club at the Senior School, which they supervise. She also discussed the Model UN, which some of the Debating Club students belong to, as well.

Then it was time for the debate.

Arguing for the proposition, Justin Bieber should be Canada’s next Governor General, were Tori. C. and Christine W. On the against side were Harold C. and Penny D. The gowned moderator was our own Dr. Godfrey.

The highlight of the lively debate was when Harold asked the assembled audience if Canadians wanted a Governor General whose song lyrics included (and at this point Harold sang) “oh baby, baby, baby, oooo.”

Yay or nay
Provided with cards depicting Mr. Bieber on one side and a big red X on the other, guests were asked to vote for the winners.

After the tally, against emerged as the winning side, but the count was close, indicative of the calibre of debating on both sides!

Thanks to all staff and students who made the evening so enjoyable, but most of all, thanks to the generous donors whose support provides the margin of excellence at TFS.

Thanks to TFS’ Guidance Department, discovering many programs offered to students at different ages is a simple mouse click away.

The just-produced annual Summer Guide provides a wealth of information grouped under several categories, for example, French Language Enrichment, Summer Residential Camps and Volunteer/CAS Opportunities, to name a few.

View the entire publication at TFS Summer Guide 2012.

The colour of luck
Each child received a small red envelope, containing a token nickel. The symbolism of this tradition is two-fold: red, because it is believed to scare away evil spirits and bad fortune, and money, used to suppress or put down the evil spirit.

As with the other international, single-country themed weeks held throughout the year at La p'tite école, a museum table was set up with items representing many aspects of China and Chinese culture, including  textiles, maps, books on various topics, toys, a ceramic teapot and tea cups, traditionally-patterned porcelain bowls, chopsticks and more.

The TV monitor in the branch's entrance played Chinese music, accompanying photos and a video describing aspects of the country in French.

How to design a dragon
What better way to ensure the ferocity of your dragon than by making one yourself? The PK classes contributed the tissue paper flames and scales to the dragon slinking across a hallway wall, while the SK's created their own paper dragons.

Then it was time to meet a dragon in person. All of the students attended one of two assemblies in La p'tite école's gym to watch an authentic dragon dance. Some of the students even got to feed the dragon!

Festive dress
The journée chic that week saw La p'tite école awash in resplendent Chinese wear, in fortunate shades of red and jewel tones. Not to be left out were some staff, who were provided with Chinese jackets. Meanwhile the entire staff enjoyed a Chinese tea tasting, courtesy of the branch's music teacher, who is also a sommelier of tea.

Lights, music, dance!
The opening number, Mad Haus, introduced the entire company of dancers, 34 in all, followed by an ode to Bollywood and a contemporary/hip hop number. While the dancers took a break, the emcees asked for two helpers to join them on stage. Theo and Tessa, both 11, were asked a series of mysterious question, such as their favourite subject, how many times they had seen the Dance Show and if they could name a style of dance. Then came the forth question: can you show us your stuff in the style of dance you named? Loudly encouraged by the emcees and audience, Theo and Tessa both did themselves proud.

An array of artistry – and cool steps
No matter the style, challenge and artistry involved, each dance was choreographed by the students. Graceful and emotionally-driven contemporary dance numbers performed by the girls were interspersed with an all-boys number and a lively mixed piece set to the music of Wham! (from way, way back in the 1980's).

So you want to join the Dance Show?
The short production (selected from the full evening program) was followed by an enthusiastic question and answer period. One of the most popular questions posed by the young audience was when could they join the Dance Show? As explained by the Dance Show Heads – Bianca B., Marc. M. and Jenna D. – tryouts occur in the spring for the following school year’s show and participants have to be at least in Grade 8/Level I at the time of the audition. We just know that these students are counting the time until they can try out and become one of TFS' dance stars!

Proceeds from the matinee and two evening performances raised $4,580.00 for Hip Hop for Hope. And thanks to student photographer Larissa P., Level V, for all the photos!

TFS’ Guidance Department has a University Relations Coordinator who is dedicated to developing and managing all activities related to universities. Alison Uys works to continuously expand and enrich the program for our soon-to-be-graduating students.

Summertime sessions for university application success

Jumpstart, an optional program at TFS, was initiated two years ago in light of the increase in applications to universities abroad and for major scholarships. Held during the latter part of August, the course covers the requirements of university applications in different countries, major scholarships and supplementary applications.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

Leveraging the vast talents and professions reflected in our alumni and parent communities, students in Grades 10, 11 and 12 (Levels III through IV) are invited to attend career lunches, through a partnership between our University Relations Coordinator and Alumni Relations Office. Alumni and parent guests at these lunches speak to students about their career and university experiences and answer the students’ many questions.

Outside of class, the Alumni Relations Office also fosters and manages an online mentorship program that allows students in Levels IV and V to contact alumni mentors and query them for university and career advice. These mentors come from many different years of graduation, and from varied professional and academic backgrounds.

Getting to know you

This school year so far, over 62 universities and university programs have sent representatives to TFS – 24 from Canada, 25 from the US, nine from the UK, and one from each of Australia, France, Italy and Hong Kong. Students and parents alike are welcome to meet and speak directly to these university and program admissions officers. The Guidance Department also holds university information evenings, giving students and parents the opportunity to learn about the application process, admissions requirements, and academic programs at Canadian, US and international universities.

Nothing, however, matches the experience of visiting a university campus in person. Each year, Level III, IV and V students spend a day on a university campus, to learn about the school and soak up campus life. They also meet with TFS alumni currently attending these universities, to get an insider’s look.

The nitty gritty

Then there are the forms. Guidance Department counselors work one-on one with each student, helping them fill out the different applications for universities in Canada, the US, the UK and elsewhere, and any of the supplementary applications often required by specialized programs.

They do the same for scholarship applications, and as alumni who were candidates for scholarships while at TFS know, in the event of highly sought-after scholarships, they will set up mock interviews to prepare students for the scholarship selection process.

TFS wants each of its students to find the right university home, and the right program of study, after they leave the school. That’s why we offer comprehensive assistance, encouragement, experience and acumen every step of the way.

Food, glorious food

Guests arrived to platters of Greek appetizers set at each table. Then it was time to try the international food stations, positioned, like last year’s Carrousel, around the perimeter of the Senior School’s gym, giving palates of all sorts something to savour.

An artistic – and entertaining – trip around the world

Introduced by TFS’ own Jackie English ’96, a popular personality from TVO Kids, the student performances began with a musical prelude, followed by the Parade of Nations. Established during the first Carrousel, the Parade included 41 students from the Junior and Senior Schools carrying flags from different countries, marching throughout the gym. This was followed by children from La p’tite école performing a Lebanese dance and Junior School students singing in Mandarin, as well as enacting a championship return from an international sports meet, on a plane dubbed TFS Air, no less.

Senior School students showed off their Bollywood dance moves and comedic skit skills, and the Wind Ensemble delighted the audience with Suite Arlésiene, from composer Georges Bizet.

A community success!

The evening, including a silent auction, with trips and fine wines provided by our community members, was an incredible success, and was matched to $100,000 thanks to the generosity of the Riley family (Edward, Margaret, Brannan, William and James, and their Riley Family Foundation).