FRIDAY FLYER-Issue 184
25 Apr 2024
Headmaster's Welcome
We hope that you have enjoyed a productive week and that you are looking forward to your weekend.
At Epsom we have been busy as you can see HERE. The external exams are now underway and our younger students have been sitting exams in order for staff to be able to gauge their level of understanding under exam conditions while providing them with invaluable examination experience - preparation and revision techniques, time management, target setting and how to act on feedback.
Examinations remain central to assessment for students but we can all agree that education involves far more than preparing for, and passing, exams…
In the face of existential challenges such as climate change, education emerges not just as a pathway to knowledge but as a beacon of hope for a brighter, cleaner future. At Epsom, we are committed to preparing our students for a world beyond textbooks and exams, recognising the urgent need for innovative solutions to global crises.
The looming threat of climate change casts a shadow over the future of our planet, yet education equips us with the tools to confront and overcome this challenge. The popularity of STEAM subjects among our students reflects a growing awareness of the pivotal role that science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics play in addressing environmental issues. Indeed, only last week, we celebrated Epsom Science Week. Many of our students are poised to become the architects of change, contributing to projects that combat climate change, promote renewable energy sources, and advocate for clean transportation.
While headlines often paint a bleak picture of the environmental crisis, there is indeed hope! Advances in science and technology are reshaping the landscape of environmental sustainability, offering tangible solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Prior to the Paris Agreement of 2016, bleak projections foresaw a global temperature rise of 4 degrees Celsius by 2100—a scenario tantamount to global collapse.
However, current policies already in place are projected to limit this rise to 2.7 degrees Celsius by 2100, with further targets aiming for 2.5 degrees Celsius by 2030 and 2.1 degrees Celsius in the long term. While these targets fall short of the optimal goal of limiting global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, or ideally 1.5 degrees Celsius, they signify significant progress achieved in a remarkably short span of time.
Our journey towards decarbonisation is fraught with challenges, particularly in sectors such as transportation, heating, and manufacturing, where fossil fuels still reign supreme. Yet, the advent of cheaper renewables enables us to feel optimistic, opening avenues for electrification and decarbonisation in these critical areas.
Efforts to address climate change are not confined to the realms of science and technology alone; they permeate societal consciousness, shaping political agendas and public policy. The growing fervour surrounding climate change, particularly among younger generations, underscores a collective commitment to effecting meaningful change.
In conclusion, while the battle against climate change is far from won, the strides we have made thus far offer cause for cautious optimism. Education provides hope and at Epsom we aspire to empower our learners with the knowledge, skills, and conviction to confront existential challenges head-on. We draw inspiration from the progress we have achieved thus far and do not doubt that our students will play integral roles in their future careers to ensure a sustainable and resilient future.
We hope that you enjoy the articles to come and wish you Happy Reading and a very Happy Friday!
Best wishes,
Mr Matthew Brown,
Headmaster
Follow me on Instagram
A Message from our Leadership Team - Mrs Kate Fowler
At Epsom we strive to create an environment where student well-being and success goes beyond academics; we want students to feel emotionally and psychologically secure. Psychological safety is essential for fostering a positive learning experience and promoting mental health.
Psychological safety refers to an environment where students feel comfortable being themselves, expressing their thoughts and feelings, and taking risks without fear of judgement. It's about creating a sense of belonging and acceptance where student voice is valued.
Dr. C. Tucker (2021) “Is your classroom a psychological safe place?” Available at https://catlintucker.com/2021/11/psychological-safety/
A.Dale-Bate (2022) “Psychological safety un schools. How to promote measure and intervene. Available at https://www.komodowellbeing.com/wellbeing-resources/psychological-safety-in-schools-how-to-promote-measure-and-intervene
At Epsom we believe psychological safety matters as it reduces stress and anxiety and promotes emotional wellbeing and mental health. Also students are more likely to engage in learning positively when they feel safe and supported in class.
How do we create psychological safety at Epsom?
- Our pastoral system at Epsom is structured in a way to support student’s psychological safety. Every member of staff has a responsibility to care for the wellbeing of our students and create a safe environment. Through our House system, tutor system and our school counsellor we create an environment where students can voice their thoughts and feelings.
- Our PSHE and tutor programme has been developed by Mr Garnett (PSHE coordinator) and our Heads of Key Stages to develop an understanding of empathy, kindness and respect for others.
- Through the work of our Wellbeing Prefects and Peer Mentors we promote positive mental health, kindness and acceptance and organise theme weeks to raise awareness amongst the student body.
- Through student voice such as the School Council, House Committees and and tutor discussion we encourage students to voice their opinions and advocate for their needs.
- Everyday during class time we encourage students to ask questions, participate, share thoughts and opinions in class discussions
- We build resilience in our students. Our teachers help students develop resilience by teaching them coping strategies for managing stress and setbacks. We emphasise the importance of learning from failures and mistakes.
- Our extensive CCA programme and Super Curricular Programme gives opportunities for our students to explore their interest, try new things and build positive relationships with those with common interests.
- We promote a sense of belonging not just to Epsom School but through our House structure and House competition. We have expanded our House competition to include a greater diversity of activities so all students feel they can contribute positively. The extensive opportunities in sports, music and drama also gives a sense of belonging where students become part of a team or work together.
- Our student wellbeing surveys allow us to understand areas where students may feel anxious or stressed at school. In identifying these areas we can put in place measures to try and help students.
By prioritising psychological safety at Epsom, we can create a supportive environment where every student can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially; promoting a culture of acceptance, respect, and well-being in the Epsom community.
Mrs Kate Fowler,
Deputy Headteacher, Pastoral
Rosebery House Updates
As I prepare to step down from my role as Head of Rosebery, a whirlwind of emotions fills me. It's been an incredible honour guiding and supporting the Rosebery girls through various challenges, especially the triumph of winning House Music 2023. Reflecting on our time together, I'm immensely grateful for the memories we've created. One of the remarkable qualities of the Rosebery girls is their unwavering dedication, evident in everything from sports to baking birthday cakes. Among my fondest memories are the spirited sports competitions where we celebrated not only victories but also the spirit and effort displayed, win or lose.
Recalling the journey to victory in House Music brings a smile to my face. The camaraderie formed during practices and the eventual triumph on stage will forever be cherished moments. As the year draws to a close, I trust Yi En to carry the torch forward with the same passion and leadership. To the Rosebery girls and Ms Orpwood, I extend my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support throughout this journey. Without each of you, my tenure as Head of Rosebery would not have been as rewarding.
Darshinie, Year 13
Head of Rosebery is more than just a title to me; it's an opportunity to lead, inspire, and make a positive difference in the lives of the girls here, many of whom have come from foreign countries and do not have their parents around.
A few months ago, I picked up a book I had bought years ago. Blowing the dust off, I started to read it. The book was Atomic Habits by James Clear and it honestly has made a huge difference in my life, especially in how to realistically tackle goals that I had set for myself. The only thing is - it is always easier with a friend. With what I have learnt, I plan to implement this in Rosebery. I honestly wish to help the people in my house to achieve what they want to and foster a community of individuals who can come together and work on their goals.
Along with this, of course, I hope to win the house competitions which really, I believe, fuel the connection between Rosebuds.
It is slightly frightening to think that next year I will be in a position of responsibility over more than a hundred people. However, I am very grateful for Darshinie and the other seniors who I have learnt from and looked up to so much and I hope to make them proud next year.
Yi En, Year 12
Carr House News
Exam fever has swept through Carr House this week in response to the KS3 exams. It's been heartening to witness the students' diligent preparations. What's even more inspiring is the way they've supported each other living out our Carr motto, “We are the example”.
In the common areas, groups of students have been studying together, exchanging tips, and seeking guidance from Woon, our Carr Gap Student, during and after prep time.
This exam time has been a reminder to so many in Carr that exams offer more than just a test of academic knowledge; they can serve as profound life lessons. They teach the importance of preparation, time management, and perseverance.
Exams also demonstrate the value of seeking help and collaboration, as students often study together and learn from one another. Moreover, exams provide an opportunity to experience and manage stress, a valuable skill in navigating future challenges. Overall, exams offer a holistic learning experience that extends beyond the confines of the classroom, preparing students for the various tests and trials they may face in life.
I am sure that during this exam period, the students at Carr House have been able to grasp some of these valuable life lessons, which they will be able apply in various situations throughout their lives.
Mrs Jennifer Garnett, Housemistress Carr House
Computer Science Department News
Mr Bevan reminisces on how he first discovered the joy of Computer Science:
When I was 21, I travelled to Yogyakarta in Indonesia in the summer to work as a teacher for 6 weeks in an ESL school. Since I travelled by myself and as I was quite shy, I found myself with lots of free time after work.
Before I travelled there I spent a lot of my time playing a Facebook game called 'Marvel Avengers Alliance'. I played it with a few friends from university and so naturally, as is often the case, there was a competitive element of who was going to win.
Part of succeeding in the game involved collecting silver by clicking on specific areas of the screen at specific times. As I played the game more, I began to think about how I could maximise the amount of silver I was collecting and realised that there was a large portion of time where I wasn't able to click on the screen - while I was asleep, and while I was at work. This got me thinking - is there some way I can automate this process of collecting silver during these times?
Over the next couple of weeks, I found a programming language based on C that would automate key presses for me (AutoHotKey). I found out how to wait for pictures to load so I could run a script, how to scan a webpage, move a mouse cursor, and finally - after no less than 6 different versions - I arrived at the working version. It was aptly named 'Marvel 6'.
When I made that first script and everything worked perfectly, it was a feeling like nothing I had ever felt before (I was 21 still at the time remember). I loved everything about it - learning how the language works, that the output was perfectly reflective of my input only, and that there was nowhere to hide with code. If the code didn't work, there is a problem somewhere and it is your job to find out how to fix it.
To date, I have never found a subject quite like Computer Science. Although I decided to undertake a PGCE in Mathematics and studied Chemical Engineering at university, I have yet to find such a unique blend of language, logic and creativity as in Computer Science. Creating code, debugging, learning how a language works - these are unique aspects to Computer Science that you cannot find anywhere else, and it is partly because of this as to why Computer Scientists are valued so highly by so many companies.
Several years later, when I started teaching Computer Science formally, I came across an interesting idea, something that several people considered to be one of the fundamental concerns of Computer Science. It stated:
"A fundamental concern of Computer Science is determining what can and cannot be automated".
I thought back to my time spent in Yogyakarta and realised that, without knowing it, I had determined that one aspect of Marvel Avengers Alliance at least, can be automated and there began my engagement with computing.
Mr Bevan, Teacher of Mathematics and Computer Science
Epsom Hari Raya Celebration Assembly
Last week we enjoyed a special annual school event - our Hari Raya Celebration. Students and parents took part in musical performances and dance. We were all invited to don traditional dress and as you can see from the pictures, the stage was awash with colour!
Our catering team treated us all to a wonderful feast of traditional Malaysian cuisine and they were invited to the stage to receive thanks from staff and students for all their hard work.
All in all it was a wonderful experience and precious memories were made!
Selamat Hari Raya!
Epsom Hari Raya Celebration Lunch
Here are some pictures of the beautiful feast that we enjoyed as part of our Hari Raya Celebration:
Prep School Celebrates Hari Raya
Hari Raya was celebrated across the school - here are some pictures of our youngest students enjoying the festivities. Parents were invited along to participate:
Meeting Doctors Without Borders at Epsom
The room was set: across a long table sat politicians, lawyers, human rights activists, and 12 Epsom School students. We had the honour of listening to two Medecin Sans Frontieres / Doctors Without Borders representatives, Paul and Dr. Yuko, who are part of the Gaza crisis team. While many interesting figures and facts were presented, what I cannot forget and what struck me the most were the videos that Dr. Yuko had recorded of the Gaza children. Not the visceral videos of the wounded, but the incredible hope these children showed in the face of calamity. I really believe more videos of children laughing and reciting the alphabet and showing off their English skills should be shared across the media. These videos show humanity. While some news outlets objectify or represent these children through numbers, the videos we watched show that these children are so much more than that. That they are no different to us. That they shouldn’t be reduced to the homo sacer, a person whose life is deemed to be of no value like a soldier lost in the battlefield. I watched as a girl much younger than I am, gleefully recited facts about herself in English, something that she had been proudly practising. It hit me hard. Just like her, I was studying this and that, feeling burnt out or overwhelmed. At least I knew my hard work would pay off; her hard work may soon be forgotten under a pile of rubble. I am so honoured to have been able to attend this event and to be entrusted with spreading the important message of the day. I remember someone saying that the battle is lost when people start to forget. The least I can do for them is to remember.
Aisha
While my career inspiration does not lead me anywhere near the medical field, my interest in this talk was profound because of the ongoing attacks in Gaza, Palestine. To be completely honest, I was aware of this attack. However, I have not dedicated sufficient time educating myself nor raising awareness. I have to admit, I was ignorant. Attending this talk showed that the catastrophic attacks on Palestine are taking the lives of generations and generations of people. Dr. Nakajima shared her experience of working directly with the Gaza children. They asked for nothing but this. “Please tell the world about what is happening.” And as people privileged enough not to worry about being in danger in our own homes, the least we can do is make sure people do not forget before it is too late. I believe this talk played a pivotal role in shaping my perspective on global news and how important it is to pay more attention.
Woorin
When I saw the title of Mr. Pedro's email, I replied faster than I have ever in my life. I knew I had to be there. Not only did this talk align directly with my interest in the healthcare industry, I was eager to find out anything I possibly could about the current situation in Gaza, especially from someone who has been there experiencing it firsthand. Paul's introduction to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), the organisation behind Doctors Without Borders, was enlightening. He illustrated how MSF operates beyond just medical professionals, emphasising the critical role of individuals from diverse backgrounds. When Dr. Yuko spoke passionately about her experiences, her bravery and dedication truly embodied the essence of healthcare. This experience left me profoundly grateful. It reinforced the collaborative spirit needed to address global challenges and deepened my appreciation for the impact individuals like Dr. Yuko have on humanitarian efforts. I am more inspired than ever to contribute to the healthcare field and support meaningful initiatives like those of MSF.
Jesslyn
Doctors Without Borders are the people who gather to dedicate their lives to helping the people in any country whose citizens need medical treatment. As a student aiming to become a doctor, the talk made me consider my future once more. The main experience the doctor described was the horrendous reality of war and natural disasters. She has worked in Gaza, saving severely injured children from death. She said: “We are privileged and I think we should give back to the underprivileged in society.” This made me question whether I am brave and passionate enough to occupy such a job. I still can’t answer the question, but I realised I could do and will do something to save innocent people like the Doctors Without Borders.
Young
My first-hand experience of meeting Doctors Without Borders made me realise that everyday, around the world, countless catastrophes occur, but there are never ample supplies and resources to aid those in need. But have you ever heard of Doctors Without Borders? It is an organisation that offers assistance to people, based on need and irrespective of race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. Read on to find out how the live talk had broadened my horizons.
MSF includes protagonists from all over the world who have the same aim: to use their medical skills to bring those affected by calamities back to health. Currently, Doctors Without Borders is responding to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Two extremely significant members of the organisation shared their experience, which sparked my epiphany. Paul was our first speaker, and he is a logistician who managed the supply chain so that the flow of medical supplies would go through smoothly from station to station. This made me realise that, despite the name MSF, there are many people with different occupations involved, all committing themselves to this project for it to become more successful.
Our next speaker was Doctor Yuko Nakajima. She is an extremely talented Emergency Physician and Anesthetist. She talked about working on-site in Gaza with her colleagues for 10 days and shared her encounter with numerous horrifying threats. Medical supplies, to her, were the most important tool she could wield to aid those who were badly injured. She felt guilty when she had to leave Gaza after 10 days of fighting for her patients’ lives. There indeed were many disturbing photos in the presentation, but it was really important to understand that everything that is happening in Gaza is far from a made-up story but, in fact, a heartbreaking reality. During the Q&A session, I asked, “I am an international student from Myanmar and I understand the feeling of survivor’s guilt as my country is in a devastating state as well. How would you advise me to recover from the guilt?” How would you have answered this question? I’ll leave it for you to think. Before I conclude my contributions, it would really be fruitful if the readers (You) can help provide lifesaving medical aid to people in catastrophic places by making a donation to MSF today.
Kaith
Science Week at Epsom
Science Week, an annual celebration of all things scientific, commenced with an electrifying assembly that delved into the enigmatic realm of time. Students and faculty alike were transported on a journey through the mysteries and intricacies of this fundamental concept. From the theoretical frameworks of Einstein's relativity to the practical applications in our daily lives, the assembly set the stage for a week filled with exploration and discovery.
The assembly didn't merely stop at theory; it ignited curiosity with captivating investigations that unravelled the mysteries of time. From experiments showcasing time dilation to thought-provoking discussions on the perception of time, students were encouraged to ponder the timeless questions that have intrigued humanity for centuries.
Previous
Next
Following the assembly, the excitement continued with the Science Kahoot! heats and finals, where our senior school students showcased their knowledge and competitiveness. With questions ranging from fundamental scientific principles to obscure trivia, the Kahoot! competition was fierce, leaving everyone on the edge of their seats. The winners, to be announced next week, are eagerly awaited, with anticipation running high among participants.
However, not all events went according to plan. The eagerly anticipated science obstacle course faced an unexpected obstacle of its own — rain. Despite the disappointment of cancellation, students remained undeterred, their enthusiasm undiminished as they eagerly awaited future opportunities to test their scientific prowess in physical challenges.
As the week drew to a close, the final event — a TED talk on university choices and career paths — ushered in a new wave of inspiration. Presented by sixth formers, each talk offered a unique glimpse into the diverse fields of science and the myriad opportunities they offer.
Noh's presentation offered a comprehensive exploration of the diverse landscape of university courses specialising in Pure Chemistry, delving into the intricacies of each curriculum and the potential career trajectories they offer. With meticulous detail, he illuminated the core subjects, elective options, and research opportunities within these programs, providing attendees with a nuanced understanding of the academic journey they entail. Noh Mohamed meticulously outlined the myriad career pathways available to graduates of Pure Chemistry programs, highlighting the vast array of industries and fields that rely on the expertise and knowledge cultivated in these educational pursuits. From pharmaceuticals to environmental science, from academia to industrial research, he elucidated the myriad avenues through which individuals can leverage their background in Pure Chemistry to make meaningful contributions to society. Through vivid examples and real-world case studies, Noh Mohamed painted a vivid picture of the possibilities awaiting those who choose to embark on this academic and professional journey. His presentation served not only as an informative guide but also as an inspiring testament to the boundless opportunities inherent in the study of Pure Chemistry.
Diana delivered an insightful presentation, delving into the intricacies of university courses in biomedical science and elucidating the diverse career pathways stemming from such academic pursuits. With meticulous detail, she navigated through the vast array of educational opportunities available, outlining the core subjects, specialised tracks, and practical experiences integral to these programs. From foundational courses in biology and chemistry to advanced studies in genetics, pharmacology, and bioinformatics, Lee illuminated the comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the biological mechanisms underpinning human health and disease. Chaeyun artfully explored the multifaceted landscape of career trajectories awaiting graduates of biomedical science programs. Through her engaging discourse, she highlighted the myriad of professional avenues available, ranging from research and academia to clinical practice, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare management. By examining real-world examples and success stories, Lee provided invaluable insights into the diverse roles and responsibilities within each sector, inspiring her audience to envision their own paths towards making meaningful contributions to the field of biomedical science. In her presentation, Chaeyun didn't just scratch the surface; she meticulously unpacked the complexities of university courses in biomedical science and illuminated the myriad career pathways available to aspiring professionals.
During Ke Ee's presentation on university courses in Pharmacy and the diverse career pathways available within the field, she delved into a comprehensive exploration of the academic programs offered by various institutions. With meticulous detail, Ke Ee Ling elucidated the core curriculum, elective courses, and specialised tracks within Pharmacy education, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the discipline. She discussed the significance of foundational subjects such as pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutical formulation, emphasising their role in shaping future pharmacists' expertise. Ke Ee Ling provided an insightful analysis of the evolving landscape of Pharmacy careers, elucidating the myriad opportunities awaiting aspiring professionals. From community pharmacy practice to clinical research, pharmaceutical industry roles to regulatory affairs, she painted a vivid picture of the diverse avenues open to graduates of Pharmacy programs. Drawing from her own experiences and industry insights, Ke Ee Ling offered invaluable advice on navigating these career pathways, including internship opportunities, postgraduate studies, and professional certifications. Throughout her presentation, Ke Ee Ling fostered an engaging and interactive environment, encouraging participants to ask questions and share their aspirations. By weaving together academic insights, practical advice, and real-world examples, she empowered attendees to envision their future in Pharmacy with clarity and confidence. Ke Ee Ling's passion for the field shone through her presentation, inspiring others to embark on a journey of discovery and growth within the dynamic realm of Pharmacy education and career development.
Vash's presentation delved into the intricate landscape of university courses specialising in electrical and electronic engineering, offering a comprehensive exploration of the myriad pathways available to aspiring engineers. With meticulous detail, he navigated through the diverse array of courses, unravelling the complexities and nuances of each specialisation within the field. From foundational principles to advanced concepts, Mier's elucidation provided a panoramic view of the educational journey awaiting students keen on pursuing this dynamic discipline. Vash illuminated the multitude of career trajectories that stem from a background in electrical and electronic engineering, showcasing the boundless opportunities awaiting graduates. Through insightful anecdotes and real-world examples, he painted a vivid picture of the professional landscape, highlighting the significance of these disciplines in shaping our technological future. Whether it be in telecommunications, renewable energy, robotics, or beyond, Mier underscored the indispensable role that electrical and electronic engineers play in driving innovation and progress across industries.
Benjamin's presentation on university courses in design engineering and career pathways was a comprehensive exploration of the diverse educational opportunities and professional trajectories within the field. With meticulous detail, he delved into the myriad courses offered by renowned universities, each tailored to nurture the creative and analytical skills requisite for design engineering. From foundational courses in mathematics and physics to specialised modules in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and product development, Lim illuminated the rich tapestry of knowledge awaiting aspiring design engineers. Ben meticulously elucidated the various career pathways available to graduates, highlighting the versatility and interdisciplinary nature of design engineering. Whether one aspired to innovate in consumer electronics, automotive design, or sustainable architecture, Lim underscored the industry demand for adept problem solvers equipped with a deep understanding of both engineering principles and design aesthetics. Through insightful anecdotes and real-world examples, he painted a vivid picture of the dynamic landscape awaiting those venturing into the realm of design engineering, inspiring attendees to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery within this ever-evolving field.
In his captivating presentation, Youngmok delved into the intricate landscape of university courses in Astrophysics, painting a vivid picture of the educational journey aspiring astronomers embark upon. With meticulous detail, he unraveled the curriculum, dissecting each course offering and its significance in shaping the minds of future stargazers. From foundational principles to advanced theoretical frameworks, Kim illuminated the vast expanse of knowledge awaiting eager learners within the realm of Astrophysics. Youngmok's discourse extended beyond mere academic exploration; he deftly navigated the intricate web of career pathways that unfold before graduates of Astrophysics programs. With insightful commentary, he illuminated the diverse array of opportunities that await those who dare to venture into the cosmos professionally. Whether it be in research institutions pushing the boundaries of human understanding or in the private sector harnessing celestial phenomena for practical applications, Kim elucidated the myriad avenues through which Astrophysics enthusiasts can channel their passion into meaningful careers. Through Youngmok’s presentation, audience members were not only treated to a comprehensive overview of Astrophysics education but were also inspired to envision the multitude of paths that lie ahead in their pursuit of understanding the cosmos. With clarity and enthusiasm, Youngmok underscored the boundless potential inherent in the fusion of academic rigour and passionate curiosity, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of experiencing his presentation.
Molly's presentation delved deeply into the multifaceted realm of university courses in Medicine, providing a comprehensive exploration of the educational journey and career pathways within this esteemed field. With meticulous attention to detail, she navigated through the intricate landscape of medical education, offering insights into the diverse array of courses available, ranging from foundational studies to specialised disciplines. Drawing upon her extensive knowledge and expertise, Molly illuminated the various avenues aspiring medical professionals can pursue, from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate specialisation programs. She meticulously outlined the curriculum structures, emphasising the importance of core subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, while also highlighting the significance of clinical experience and hands-on training. Moreover, Molly artfully elucidated the myriad career pathways open to graduates of medical programs, showcasing the breadth of opportunities within healthcare, research, academia, and beyond. Through engaging anecdotes and real-world examples, she painted a vivid picture of the challenges and rewards awaiting those embarking on a career in Medicine.
Lastly, Xin Ling's presentation on university courses in Geoscience and career pathways was an illuminating exploration into the diverse array of academic offerings and professional trajectories within the field. With meticulous detail and a passion for the subject matter, Xin Ling delved into the multifaceted nature of Geoscience education, elucidating the various disciplines encompassed within the broader field. From geology to atmospheric science, oceanography to environmental studies, Xin Ling highlighted the breadth of knowledge available to aspiring students. Xin Ling's presentation went beyond mere course listings, delving into the intricacies of each specialisation and the practical applications thereof. By elucidating the interdisciplinary nature of Geoscience, Xin Ling emphasised its relevance to real-world challenges, such as climate change mitigation, natural resource management, and disaster preparedness. In discussing career pathways, Xin Ling provided invaluable insights into the diverse array of opportunities awaiting Geoscience graduates. Through engaging anecdotes and empirical data, Xin Ling showcased the myriad roles available in academia, industry, government, and non-profit sectors. Whether aspiring to become research scientists, environmental consultants, policy analysts, or educators, Xin Ling underscored the versatility and significance of Geoscience expertise in addressing global issues.
Throughout the presentations, the student body remained actively engaged, posing thoughtful questions that reflected their curiosity and enthusiasm for science. From inquiries about cutting-edge research to queries about potential career paths, the audience demonstrated a genuine eagerness to explore the vast and wondrous world of science. As Science Week came to a close, it left in its wake a sense of wonder, inspiration, and possibility. From the exploration of time to the discovery of future career paths, the weeklong celebration served as a reminder of the boundless horizons that await those who dare to explore the frontiers of science. As students eagerly await the announcement of the Kahoot! winners and reflect on the insights gained from the TED talks, one thing is certain — Science Week has sparked a flame of curiosity and passion that will continue to burn bright in the hearts and minds of all who participated.
Ms Louise Madeley, Head of Biology
U13 FOBISIA Games at Pattana Sport Resort, Thailand
On March 26th, 22 of our students, 10 boys and 12 girls, competed in the U13 FOBISIA games at Pattana Sport Resort in Thailand. Both teams demonstrated commendable performance and resilience throughout the games. The captains, Taiyoh and Yoolim, exhibited excellent leadership skills among their peers.
On the first day event for the competition, which was athletics, boys Taiyoh and Luis put great effort and managed to finish in the top 3 for their event. Huge effort from Kate bringing home the gold medal for the 800m event. For the field event, Masanari, Cedric from the boys, and Alicia, Ezra, and Sora from the girls managed to finish in the top 3.
During the swimming events, Alicia secured a gold medal for the girls' team in the 50M freestyle, marking a significant milestone for her. Kimora also performed well, finishing 2nd in the 50M breaststroke. Taiyoh demonstrated resilience by bouncing back from earlier setbacks to win a bronze medal in the 50m backstroke.
The second day featured basketball matches. Despite a loss to St. Andrew in their first match, the boys rebounded with a victory against Bromsgrove and secured a spot in the semi-finals after defeating HuaHin. Meanwhile, the girls performed well but finished in 7th place after a close match against SJIM. In the playoffs, the boys faced tough competition against Crescendo but emerged victorious by a narrow margin, securing 3rd place overall.
The games ended with football on the last day. The first game was against Hua Hin and both teams showed good keenness in winning. The first goal came after a few minutes by our students Taiyoh, followed up by Cedric and Luis. Winning the game by 4-1 at the end. The girls started their first match against St. Andrews but lost the match, moving to the next game against Gardens and Hua Hin. Tianna from the girls played great as a goalkeeper and was not afraid to reach for the ball. The girls finished 7th place after winning against SJIM by 4-1. The boys managed to get into the semi-finals but lost and finished 4th place after losing to Regents in the Playoff match.
Overall, the games provided valuable experience for our students, many of whom were participating for the first time. They exhibited pride in their performance and celebrated their victories, while also forging new friendships with students from other schools.
Fidel Looi , PE teacher
Follow us on Instagram
Save The Date!
As we approach the pinnacle of another successful year at Epsom College in Malaysia, we cordially invite you to join us for a yet another momentous occasion. It’s time to dust off your finest attire and prepare for an unforgettable evening at the 10th Annual Epsom Ball, hosted by the Friends of Epsom in Malaysia, scheduled for Friday, June 28th, 2024. This annual event is a long standing tradition we have adopted from our sister school Epsom College, UK.
This year’s ball holds particular significance as we mark a decade of excellence since the establishment of Epsom College in Malaysia. It promises to be an evening filled with elegance, camaraderie, and celebration, bringing together our Sixth Form students, dedicated teachers, esteemed staff, and supportive Prep & Senior Parents, along withour cherished Epsom partners.
Anticipation mounts as we unveil a lineup of distinguished guests and surprises, ensuring that this year’s ball will surpass all expectations. Stay tuned for the upcoming exciting announcements!
Embracing the theme of ‘Old Hollywood,’ we invite you to step back in time to the
glamour and sophistication of the 1920s. The illustrious St. Regis hotel, our chosen venue, perfectly complements the theme, promising an atmosphere of opulence and grandeur.
Prepare to immerse yourself in an enchanting evening reminiscent of a bygone era, where every moment promises to be as memorable as the last. We eagerly anticipate your presence at this extraordinary event, as we come together to honour our rich history and embrace the promise of the future.
We are delighted to announce that Early bird tickets are available now till 6th May 2024. Grab it fast! Kindly purchase your ticket now to fill in the form in the link below:
https://8ukgjhrk.forms.app/epsom-ball-ticket-purchase-form-1
Details are in the flyer attached and payments are to be made via internet banking, please find the college bank details below:
Bank: CIMB Bank Berhad
Account name: Epsom College Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Account number: 8001749320
Branch: Solaris, Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur
Swift code: CIBBMYKL
Note :
- Kindly state the following in the reference : EPSOM BALL 24
- All transaction receipts must be uploaded to the purchase
- Please note that seats are available on a first come first serve basis and only confirmed upon successful payment.
Please do not hesitate to contact us email friends.of.epsommsia@gmail.com. If you have any further questions or would like further information.
Warm regards,
Chairman, Friends of Epsom College in Malaysia
Congratulations to Sean
We are so proud of Sean, Yr 9 Holman, who has been invited to the International Symposium to Empower Children. He will take part in sessions where the commission hosting the event hopes to extract opinions of children on what’s good or not for them.
During this International Conference, Sean, along with other attendees, will engage in a series of enriching discussions and presentations. The day will begin with a recap of the previous day's discussions by Dr. Farah Nini Dusuki, the Children’s Commissioner of SUHAKAM, setting the stage for further exploration.
Following this, Ms. Anne Hollonds, the National Children's Commissioner of Australia, will deliver a keynote presentation moderated by Ms. Selvi Supramaniam, a UNICEF Child Protection Specialist. The session will delve into the critical relevance of independent institutions for marginalised children.
Throughout the day, plenary sessions will address operational challenges and approaches to working with marginalised children. Discussions will cover topics such as gender, disabilities, indigenous, refugee, and migrant children. Esteemed panellists from various fields, including academia, advocacy, and governmental organisations, will provide valuable insights and perspectives.
In between sessions, brief breaks will allow for networking and informal discussions among participants.
Additionally, a breakout session, specifically designed for children, will provide them with a platform to actively engage in discussions about their participation in key national initiatives.
The day will conclude with a summary of the breakout session outcomes and closing remarks delivered by Dr. Farah Nini Dusuki, along with a child representative. Attendees will then have the opportunity to participate in a tea and networking session, fostering connections and reflecting on the day's insights.
The symposium is organised by the Human Rights Commission, EU and UNICEF. The symposium will have speakers and panellists who are children commissioners or ombudsmen for children from all over the world including the United Kingdom.
Sean is an excellent ambassador for our school and role model to his peers -we do not doubt that he will use the knowledge gleaned at this event for the benefit of others.
So, Dear Reader,
Thank you for reading our Epsom Friday Flyer and we wish you all the very best for a restful weekend.
Happy Friday from us all at Epsom.
🙂
Follow us on Instagram.