https://www.royalgazette.com/education/news/article/20250213/teaching-and-education-talent-recognised-in-awards/  Teaching and education talent recognised in awardsSarah LaganCreated: Feb 13, 2025 07:51 AM0 CommentsSaluting excellence: Colm Singleton, left, head of office at Allied World Bermuda, D’Vonne Ramsay, Katiuska Guerrero, Elizabeth Pacheco, Tanika White, Natalie Roberts, Maha Turner, Shacolbi Basden and Albert Benson. Missing in the picture is Tamikia Allen (Photograph supplied)The Bermuda Education Network is to recognise public schools’ top teaching talent in its annual awards.This year’s event recognises several “outstanding programmes and initiatives” launched in Bermuda’s public schools in 2024.Renamed as the Teaching Awards, the goal of the event this year is to highlight exceptional teaching and bring attention to successful new initiatives that are “worthy of emulation”.Becky Ausenda, the founder of the BEN, thanked Allied World for sponsoring the awards and said: “These educators play a crucial role in shaping the future, and through the Teaching Awards we aim to showcase their invaluable contributions.”2025 finalistsWest Pembroke Primary School — Community Action Project Solution with Home Charity: Albert Benson and Shacolbi BasdenPurvis Primary — Dual Language Programme: D’Vonne Ramsay and Katiuska GuerreroEast End Primary — Music Programme: Tamikia AllenSt George’s Preparatory School — Reading Teacher: Natalie RobertsVictor Scott Preschool — Bright Start Programme: Maha TurnerNorthlands Primary — After School Netball Club: Tanika WhiteWhitney Institute Middle School —Transportation Project: Beth PachecoColm Singleton, the head of Allied World Bermuda, said: “Education is fundamental for the next generation to thrive locally and globally. Allied World is honoured to once again sponsor the BEN Teaching Awards. Best of luck to each finalist.”A selection committee made up of experienced educators from elementary through to senior schools will meet the finalists to review their submissions over the next three weeks.The winner will be announced at a prize-giving ceremony on February 20.A spokesman for the BEN said that changes were made to the selection process this year. Nominations of new programmes and projects were sought from public school leaders and input came from leaders across the system about educators worthy of recognition.The spokesman said: “BEN’s mission is to provide inspiration to teachers, and the goal of these awards is to discover exemplary new projects and programmes, as well as highlight the achievements of the educators responsible.“We accept that there are many ways to define who is an outstanding educator and we may in future try to introduce a students’ choice in order to recognise different types of contribution.“This new approach has resulted in some very exciting candidates and the selection committee will have a tough choice choosing a winner.”EvaluationRather than applying rigid criteria, the BEN Teaching Awards selection committee members will evaluate each entry holistically, considering its unique impact in one or more of the following areas:Enhancing resources: improving tools and materials in a specific content areaEngaging students: creating new, dynamic experiences that captivate learnersInspiring learning: motivating students of all backgrounds and abilities to reach their full potentialInnovative teaching: demonstrating creative and effective teaching strategies that benefit both students and educatorsFostering collaboration: encouraging teamwork among educators and community partners

https://www.royalgazette.com/education/news/article/20250211/northlands-pupils-embrace-a-day-of-play/ Northlands pupils embrace a day of playSékou HendricksonCreated: Feb 11, 2025 01:01 PM (Updated: Feb 11, 2025 06:03 PM)1 CommentNorthlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)A Pembroke-based primary school had pupils on the move when they celebrated Global Play Day.Northlands Primary School had an array of activities for youngsters, including puzzles and trampolines, to motivate them to be active and think critically.The pupils had the opportunity last week to step away from lessons and screens to play and explore with their peers.They were also encouraged to bring their favourite non-electric toys to share with friends.Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Global Play Day, which was observed on February 5, was established to promote unstructured playtime and its crucial role in childhood development.La-Keesha Bean, a counsellor at the school, said: “At Northlands Primary School, we are incredibly proud to be the only school in Bermuda participating and registered in Global Play Day.”She added: “The fact that Global Play Day coincides with National School Counselling Week, between February 3 and 7, further strengthens our focus on wellbeing and ensuring every child thrives.“Northlands Primary School continues to champion the power of play in education and everyday life.“We are committed to creating a fun, dynamic and enriching experience for all.”Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)

https://www.royalgazette.com/education/news/article/20250121/public-school-drive-helps-northlands-primary/Public school drive helps Northlands PrimaryAlva SolomonCreated: Jan 21, 2025 03:27 PM (Updated: Jan 22, 2025 08:20 AM)0 Comments New supplies: Northlands Primary School pupils Kayla Medeiros, Nicholas Vicente and Ancilla DeSouza examine the items which were donated by Support Public Schools Bermuda (Photograph by Akil Simmons)Pupils of a school in Pembroke wore bright smiles when a group of supporters to schools across the island donated new supplies.The gifts to Northlands Primary School from Support Public Schools Bermuda included stationery that will be used by P3 and P6 students.The handover was part of a two-day exercise in which the group planned to donate $31,085 of goods to schools around the island, thanks to the contributions of supporters, which included the Green family.Tamica Darrell, the acting principal of Northlands Primary, thanked the group for the donation, which she said would make a lasting impact on the school.She added: “These contributions play a vital role in enriching the learning experience and ensuring that every child has the tools they need to succeed academically.“Beyond their generous donations, SPS goes above and beyond by organising and notifying schools about additional donated items from companies and organisations as they become available, a truly remarkable and thoughtful effort.”Stationery support: Juliana Snelling, second right, founder Support Public Schools Bermuda, and supporters Deanne Hart, left and Chelsea Cooke (Photograph by Akil Simmons)She said the group’s dedication to addressing resource gaps aligned perfectly with Northlands Primary’s mission to empower students to focus on their education and dream big.Ms Darrell encouraged other organisations and residents to support similar schemes, which she said have direct and meaningful impacts on the lives of children and their future.“Together, we can make a profound difference,” she added.This year Butterfield Bank donated $10,000 towards the programme.Empowering young people: pupils and staff of Northlands Primary School with officials of Support Public Schools Bermuda, Butterfield Bank and Butterfield & Vallis (Photograph by Akil Simmons)Jody Feldman, the bank’s managing director in Bermuda, said: “We are proud to play our part in purchasing necessary supplies to help enrich the learning experience in Bermuda’s schools.“Having worked with the Support Public Schools team since the beginning, we have seen the positive impact these contributions have had for students and teachers alike.“We remain committed to investing in the future of our community and empowering our young people to thrive.”The Green family have contributed $5,000 towards the venture this year and a spokesman said the family truly supported the initiative.He added: “We are pleased to continue our commitment for a project that directly benefits Bermuda's primary school students, through resources that can enhance learning and promote success in public school classrooms for the teachers and students.”This year, Butterfield & Vallis donated $5,000 towards the drive.Takeysha Atwell, a human resource strategist at the food distribution company, said the business had supported the programme since 2021.She noted: “By providing essential school supplies to public schools, we aim to ensure every child has the tools needed to thrive and enjoy the learning experience.“We are honoured to contribute to this impactful cause, knowing that these investments help cultivate beautiful minds and build a vibrant, empowered community.”Juliana Snelling, an organiser and founder of SPS, said: “Education is the best means to promoting socio-economic equality and positive educational outcomes — but not all schools are equal.“Bermuda’s public school students don’t have access to the same resources as those at private schools.“Our mission is to close that gap and provide essential resources for public school students to thrive and succeed in their educational endeavours.”Ms Snelling thanked the organisation’s longstanding and new supporters whom she noted generously purchased and donated the supplies.She said the group’s second-hand goods drive had been “incredibly successful” as donations, which included computer equipment, printers, office chairs and supplies, were handed out to all levels of public schools.Ms Snelling added: “From our humble beginning in 2018, and now celebrating our eighth year, we have managed to supply almost $600,000 of new supplies as well as hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of second-hand supplies.”She said the group’s work was testament to the corporate and private individuals who believed in its mission and in making a tangible difference in the lives of children attending Bermuda’s public primary schools.

https://bernews.com/2024/12/youth-shine-grundy-photography-competition/  Youth Photography Contest Winners AnnouncedDecember 10, 2024 | 0 CommentsOn Thursday [Dec 5] a crowd of over 80 students, teachers, family members, sponsors, and judges gathered at the National Museum of Bermuda [NMB] for the Grundy Youth Photography Competition prize giving and exhibit opening.A spokesperson said, “In memory of Dr. Reg Grundy, AC, OBE, whose photographic legacy and passion for Bermuda live on in his work, the late Mrs. Joy Chambers Grundy and NMB established the Dr. Reg Grundy Annual Youth Photography Competition in 2019. Open to all local photography enthusiasts between 7 and 18, the competition is designed to inspire the next generation of photographers and encourage an appreciation for Bermuda’s natural and cultural environment.“A panel of local judges: Lisa Howie, Founder of Black Pony Gallery & Co-founder of Atlantic Arthouse and NMB Education Consultant, Dr. Deborah Atwood, NMB Curator, and Chinni Mahadevan, Reg Grundy Photographic Libraries Curator, had a challenging time choosing the 27 finalists hundreds of submissions submitted by 25 local schools and homeschooled students.”Guest judge Lisa Howie shared: “”As a first-time juror for the competition, I was honoured to review the thoughtful compositions at all age levels. In the submissions we saw artistic consideration of subject matter, lighting, shape and balance, plus good words to explain why or how the picture was taken. Taking time to craft the image with specific lighting or to speak with those in the portrait, led to meaningful outcomes that all point to youthful photography talent in Bermuda. Congratulations to all who submitted. Keep making pictures!”Dr. Atwood shared: “The importance of youth sharing their perspectives and having their art displayed on the walls of their National Museum cannot be overstated. Their viewpoints offer a fresh and dynamic lens through which to see Bermuda, infusing Commissioner’s House with new energy, enriching the experience for all who visit. Access to museums is vital for young minds, as they ignite creativity and fosters curiosity. At NMB, we are committed to making young people feel welcome. One of the ways we aim to achieve this is by celebrating and showcasing their remarkable work and unique perspectives.”A spokesperson added, “Students submitted photos under the themes People of Bermuda, Bermuda Buildings and Bermuda Wildlife & Nature in three age categories, 7-10, 11-14 and 15-18. Winners received Iron Kids Accounts at Clarien Bank [amounts between $500 and $200 based on age group], runners-up received $150 gift cards to Brown & Co. stores, and the school with the most submissions [based on percentage] – Bermuda Institute – won a $1,500 gift certificate to A.F. Smith for school supplies. Winners and runners-up photos are on display on the second floor of Commissioner’s House at NMB, with honorable mentions also featured on the NMB website: www.nmb.bm/rg-photo-competition.”NMB Executive Director Elena Strong shared: “Thanks to Mrs. Grundy and our local sponsors A.F. Smith, Phoenix Stores, and Clarien Bank, this competition has had impressive growth over the past six years. The calibre of submissions continues to rise year over year! The competition helps students develop creativity, patience, and visual literacy, encouraging them to see the world in new ways. For those not selected as finalists, keep exploring and sharing your perspective—there’s always next year!”A spokesperson added, “Mark Lewis, won his age group [15-18] in the Bermuda Nature and Wildlife category, winning a $500 Iron Kids account, and was selected as runner up in the People of Bermuda category, winning a $150 gift card to Brown & Co. His entry was also chosen as Best in Show and was presented with a Canon DSLR camera with lenses, memory card, filters and monopod, donated by Mrs. Grundy.”Finalists list:School with the highest percentage of submissions: Bermuda InstitutePrimary [ages 7-10]Bermuda BuildingsWinner: Rayn Wilson, Victor Scott PrimaryRunner-Up: Mia Yammine, BHSHonourable Mention: Finley Olivia Gilmar, Somerset PrimaryPeople of BermudaWinner: Evelyn Mora, Warwick AcademyRunner Up: Jori Bailey, Northlands PrimaryHonourable Mention: Zaedyn Furbert Downs, East End PrimaryBermuda Wildlife & NatureWinner: Dallas Hinds, Northlands PrimaryRunner Up: Isaiah Tankard, Bermuda InstituteHonourable Mention: Joseph Herron, Somersfield AcademyMiddle School [ages 11-14]Bermuda BuildingsWinner: Julia Stoppa, MSARunner Up: Henry Lill, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Siena Walters, Warwick AcademyPeople of BermudaWinner: Hanora Kirwan, SaltusRunner Up: Henry Lill, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Seri Fisher, Warwick AcademyBermuda Wildlife & NatureWinner: Savana Walters, Warwick AcademyRunner Up: Siena Walters, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Thea Dyer, HomeschoolHigh School [ages 15-18]Bermuda BuildingsWinner: Yari Mello, Cedarbridge AcademyRunner Up: Amelia Currie, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Jonah Every, Somersfield AcademyPeople of BermudaWinner: Jonah Every, Somersfield AcademyRunner Up: Mark Lewis, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Tabari Burgess, MSABermuda Wildlife & NatureWinner & Best in Show: Mark Lewis, Warwick AcademyRunner Up: Zoe Mir, George SchoolHonourable Mention: D’Angelo Williams, MSA

https://bernews.com/2024/12/skyport-school-carol-off-winners-announced/   Skyport School Carol-Off Winners AnnouncedDecember 9, 2024 | 1 CommentSkyport’s second annual Great Bermuda Carol-Off has concluded, with Northlands winning the Primary division, Berkeley winning the Middle/Secondary School category and St David’s/East End Primary earning the People’s Choice Award.A spokesperson said, “Skyport’s second annual Great Bermuda Carol-Off concluded, and the finalists have now been decided with careful consideration by a panel of judges. These exceptional schools will perform at a special Winners’ Concert at L.F. Wade International Airport on Thursday, December 12.“In the Primary School Choir category, Northlands Primary School has been named the winner, with West End Primary School taking second place. In the Middle/Secondary School Choir category, The Berkeley Institute took first place this year, with 2023’s winners Bermuda Institute taking second place this time around. St David’s/East End Primary won the public vote to take home the People’s Choice Award.“These schools have been recognised for their harmonic skill, creativity, professionalism, and Christmas spirit. They competed for $5,000 each for the winning schools, along with $2,000 for each runner-up.“Skyport congratulated all 21 choirs that participated in this year’s Carol-Off, commending their dedication, preparation and hard work that they put into each performance. Each choir brought something unique and festive to the stage, and Skyport was proud to have provided a platform for their incredible talent.“The Winners’ Concert, taking place Thursday, December 12, from 7 PM to 9 PM, is now sold out, with standing room only available for those who still wish to attend. Guests can enjoy performances by the finalists and hosted by MC Mr. Fotogenik. A vendor market featuring local businesses such as Ensure, Little Roads, Ashley’s Lemonade, The Knifty Knitzz and more will be on-site. Seasonal snacks and drinks, including eggnog, will also be available for purchase. Free parking will be provided in the short-term car parking lot.”Nikki ***an, Head of Brand Development & Communications at Skyport, said: “It has been so wonderful to see so many school choirs performing for the community here at L.F. Wade International Airport. This event has certainly put a festive spring in the steps of the airport’s staff and travelers passing through this week.“We are thrilled to host the first-ever Winners’ Concert on December 12, which is perfect for those who weren’t able to join us during the Carol-Off. We look forward to seeing everyone there, crowning the 2024 winners and contributing to their school music programs as part of Skyport’s ongoing commitment to supporting Bermuda’s young people in arts, education, sports, science, and the community.”