All co-curricular activities are designed to extend and broaden the Diploma Programme. We encourage our students to participate in co-curricular activities in order to build a strong individual profile and to present themselves as well rounded university applicants.
5th International Conference of Extended Essay
LAI is proud to share that three of our IB Students from DP II led subject-based sessions at the 5th International Conference of Extended Essay which is one of the biggest independently organized conferences hosted by ICEE, featuring IB schools from around the world.
ICEE is a team of Extended Essay experts pioneered by 11 IBDP EE Coordinators with the goal of promoting knowledge exchange for both IBDP Students as well as practitioners.
5th International Conference of Extended Essay was attended by IB Schools from around the world while, this year Learning Alliance International was the only school from Pakistan presenting at the conference, that too with the highest number of student presenters.
From our IBDP, three students, Eshaal Tariq (Group 1 - Language & Literature), Rahaymah Azam (Group 3 - Economics) and Yumna Sohail (Group 5 - Mathematics) shared their research journey with a global audience and catered to queries in breakout rooms by participants from other IB Schools. From our Faculty, Ms. Aruj Khaliq (Head of Academics) was invited to be a keynote speaker and conducted the opening session on Focus & Methodology for Research in addition to leading the breakout room for Group 1: Studies in Languages & Literature.
Such collaborative exchanges are not only a testament to the commitment of sharing our best practices with the IB Community but is also another avenue of promoting student & faculty leadership.
IBDP & MYP at the iFEST'23
The recent triumph by our IBDP and MYP IV & V students at the iFest, a dynamic three-day art-based event featuring 12 diverse categories that challenged participants to think innovatively and problem-solve creatively, marks a momentous achievement.TRASH TO TRIUMPH - Sport of Picking up Garbage or Marine Litter - SPOGOMI
Celebrating the Incredible Constant - Pi !!!
Pi Day is celebrated annually on March 14th (3/14), in honor of the mathematical constant pi, which is approximately equal to 3.14159. On this day, students at LAI MYP engaged in various activities related to pi, including group presentations on the discovery and history of pi. Students worked together to research and present on the contributions of mathematicians like Archimedes and Isaac Newton, who made significant discoveries about pi throughout history. Additionally, students participated in fun and engaging activities, like pi memorization challenge, where they tried to calculate the maximum number of decimals of pi in 5 minutes.These activities helped the IB learners to better understand the importance of pi and its applications in mathematics and beyond, as well as its historical and cultural significance.
Celebrating the 'Spirit of Punjab'
The National Heritage & Culture Division of the country set out the initiative last year to celebrate the Culture and Vibrance of Punjab. This year too, the day was observed and celebrated across multiple cities of Punjab. Students spent a festive 14th March as 'Punjab Cultural Day' ; commemorating the province's rich customs, traditions, values and legacy, along with important facts about the history of the province. IB Global learners dressed in colourful traditional clothing like Shalwaar kameez, dhoti and pugs, danced to the beat of the dhol. The students of LAI found themselves swaying to the infectious bhangra beats, while learning about their past, reviving the connection to their roots. Celebrating cultural days like these, offers a glimpse into the traditions of the region in an engaging manner. This was successful, as an attempt to keep the 'Spirit of Punjab' alive for generations to come.
MEET & GREET with the IB World School Senior Manager from IBAP, Singapore
LAI hosted a meet and greet session with the IB World School Manager Florian Ciprian Baciu from the IBAP Office, Singapore. The leadership team elucidated the teaching and learning practices at LAI through a walk across PYP-MYP-DP classrooms. The student and teacher agency at LAI remained a subject of commendation, while Mr. Florian also greatly complimented the campus aesthetics. In addition to ardently discussing the empathy-driven practices at LAI, the senior leadership team presented an overview of the upcoming milestones to the IB Senior Manager. As a part of this visit, the IB World School Manager conducted a useful workshop on Programme Development Plan (PDP) for the Pedagogical and Strategic Leaders from IB Schools, Lahore.We are grateful to the International Baccalaureate for keeping us abreast with novel IB practices and extending relentless support in this regard. As a gesture of hospitality, the LAI leadership team hosted a dinner for the IB World School Manager at the Walled City Lahore, with the extravaganza of Pakistan's cultural landmarks in all their glory. The experience served as a treat for the palate, an enchanting sight to behold and an evening to remember. Building on the valuable insights from this visit, LAI looks forward to inculcating enhanced IB practices in its quest for consistent excellence.
INSET : Making INQUIRY visible in IB
Excellence is an outcome of consistent habits, conscious choices and repetitive attempts at pursuing it. In order to equip our teaching team with novel pedagogical strategies aligned with both the requisites of 21st Century classrooms and the rigors of International Baccalaureate frameworks, an intensive INSET (In School Educational Training) was conducted at the start of Term II. The INSET titled Making INQUIRY Visible was designed for IB teachers across the Continuum ( PYP , MYP , DP ) and engaged teachers from all subject groups. Over the course of two days the participants explored: different inquiry frameworks starting from classical inquiry cycle by John Dewey to modern frameworks by Kath Murdoc and multiple strategies of Visible Thinking from Harvard University's Project Zero. The workshop series designed and lead by Ms. Aruj Khaliq enabled the participants to embed concrete linkages for making Inquiry Visible through the use of thinking routines. The sessions concluded with all IB teachers collaboratively presenting links with the existing curriculum, validating the effectiveness of the Thinking Routines for designing inquiry. The participants left the workshop venue packed with tools to use in their classrooms and with the aim to build that ecosystem which makes INQUIRY Visible.
4th International Collaboration of Extended Essay
Learning Alliance International was part of the 4th International
This year Learning Alliance International was the only school from Pakistan presenting at the conference, that too with the highest number of presenters. From our IBDP, two students including Hania Zubair Elahi and Nashmia Malik of DP II shared with the conference attendees their journey of research for their extended essays on Visual Arts and Psychology respectively. From our Faculty, Ms. Aruj Khaliq conducted the opening workshop for students on Ideation for the Extended Essay in addition to leading the breakout room for Group 1: Studies in Languages & Literature. Furthermore, two of our DP Teachers Mr. Hamid Khalid Group 5: Mathematics and Mr. Mujahid Butt Group 6: Film Studies led the subject-based breakout rooms with insightful discussions.
Celebrating Allama Mohammad Iqbal,"Hakeem-ul-Ummat"
“O Fellows, I am here for a few moments, as a gust, like a morning star, I will fade and vanish in a few moments” – Allama Mohammad Iqbal.
Contrary to his own words, Allama Iqbal, our National Poet still resides in our hearts and his poetry is embedded in the very fabric of our culture and the literary asset of this region. Allama Mohammad Iqbal was undoubtedly one of the greatest poets and philosophers of all times. He also took a prominent part in the politics of the sub continent and in the intellectual and cultural reconstruction of the Islamic world and made numerous contributions to the poetry collection in Persian and Urdu Languages. Learning Alliance International paid tribute to the visionary, through a powerful performance story, along with recitation of his famous poems.
PYP I and II paid tribute to the poet by singing a milli naghma, ‘Iqbal Hai, Iqbal Hamara.'
PYP III, IV and V had a character parade from the famous poems of Allama Iqbal. Like
Aik makra aur makhi ,Pahaar aur gulehri, Chaand aur sitaray, Bang e Darah, Jawab e shikwa, Shaheen, and Qalam.
MYP II & III participated with a lot of zest and zeal to communicate the essence of his works, and brought to lime light his views on the role and place of a Teacher in a student’s life. Allama Iqbal’s ‘Shaheen’ served as a platform to put across some of his most renowned poems. DP I students presented a few more complex works of the poet with great eloquence and urdu delivery. Followed by a performance story, ‘Aik Aarzoo’ that propels one to put aside the capitalist patriarchal system that we live in, and connect with our surroundings and nature. The theme of the performance story was centered upon collectivity and transformation, urging the students to connect with themselves and look beyond. The day was celebrated to inspire the students and kindle a spark for life-long learning.
اقبال ڈے پروگرام
ہر سال کی طرح اس سال بھی اقبال ڈے برے جوش و خروش سے منایا گیا۔ پروگرام کا باقاعدہ آغاز تلاوت قرآن پاک سے کیا گیا۔ ایم واۓ پی ٹو کی طالبات نے میزبانی کے فرائض انجام دیے۔ایم واۓ پی ٹو کے علی سہیل نے اقبال کے شاہین کی خصوصیات بیان کیں۔ عبداللہ بندیال اور محمد احمد نے شاہین پر اشعار پڑھے۔ " ڈی پی ۱ " سے عکاشہ اور عفنان نے اقبال کی خوبصورت نظم "طلوعِ اسلام" پیش کی۔اقبال کا ان کے استاد سے احترام اور اور استاد کی اہمیت کے بارے میں ہمیں ایم واۓ پی ٹو کے پہلاج اور شاہان نے آگاہ کیا ۔اقبال کی نظم "عقل و دل" کے مابین جو خوبصورت مکالمہ نگاری ہے ،اسے فجر اور قاسم احمد نے بڑی خوبصورتی سے ادا کیا ۔ اقبال کی نظم" عالمِ برزخ" کو بہت ایم واۓ پی ۴ کی زارا اور رایان بٹ نے ادا کیا۔ پروگرام کے اختتام پر ایم واۓ پی ٹو کی طالبات نے اقبال کی نظم "ایک آرزو" پر پرفارمنس پیش کی۔ اس طرح اقبال کے خیالات اور پیغامات کو طلبا تک پہنچاتے ہوۓ پراگرام کا اختتام کیا گیا۔
International Literacy Day Celebrations
The IB learners at Learning Alliance International joined hands to present various performances at International Literacy Day celebrated every year at the school. International Literacy Day commemorations have taken place annually around the globe since 1967 to galvanize the public on the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and basic human rights. UNESCO urges all stakeholders to celebrate the day and create awareness about the importance of literacy and to work towards a more literate world.
This year’s International Literacy Day comes under the theme, "Transforming Literacy Learning Spaces”. Observing the day with students provides an opportunity to re-evaluate the importance of literacy learning spaces, ensuring quality, and inclusive education for all.
The PYP sequence began with a very enthusiastic PYP I singing and performing a French Alphabet Song. PYP V students held a talk show to speak with some of the renowned personalities in the fields of entertainment, information and advocacy. The young actors of PYP V were in costume and impersonating these prominent figures such as Anwar Maqsood , Muneeba Mazari , Tylor Swift , Christiane Amanpour and Eva B to name a few.
PYP IV hosted and participated in a game show using active listening and creative thinking skills to construct impromptu stories. PYP III hosted a quiz for their younger counterparts - the PYP II.
The senior audience was enlightened by a spectacular display of talent in a series of events that came together. The curtain was raised with a comparative dialogue between two students of MYP II and III followed by a mock 'TRIAL' that questioned the ‘Institute’ on the current literacy rate of Pakistan by MYP IV and V. Next came the choir from MYP II with their melodious voice paying tribute to the Urdu language. The celebration ended with a beautiful original poem written and recited by a student of MYP IV – titled ‘Let’s unite for Literacy’.
The ceremony concluded with The DP students very eloquently presenting the poem, 'Still I rise' by Maya Angelou , and an urdu nazm recital of - 'Zindagi Se Dartay ho' by Noon Meem Rashid.
NATIONAL DEFENCE DAY
Students at LAI observed 6th
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Class of 2022 Celebrations
LAI is an IB continuum World School offering three very challenging programmes i.e PYP, MYP and DP. LAI strives hard to develop the students as a whole, not only the intellect but also the personality by empowering them to become confident and compassionate
lifelong learners. Our goal is to inspire our students to evolve into responsible, caring and dynamic citizens of the global society.
Learning Alliance International hosted a graduation ceremony of our IBDP II class of 2022, alongwith our young learners transitioning from PYP V into MYP and MYP V advancing to DP. All these milestone events, holding great importance in their learning journey as an IB student, prepare them to take on bigger challenges as they turn into young responsible adults. LAI has seen them grow, build and evolve into global citizens that it set out to achieve a decade back.
The fun filled evening was held in the school amphitheatre, commemorating the academic journey of our students. The ceremony was attended by the IB Admin, faculty and the proud parents cheering on their wards. A compilation of PYP, MYP and DP photographs of life @ LAI was made by students, and when played, brought back memories of precious times spent together. The CEO/Executive Principal, Ms. Anjum S. Ahmed, presented the Annual Achievements report and a heartfelt speech, encouraging students to pursue their dreams and wishing them success for their future. The LAI Head Girl, Eshaal Fatima Bashir - on behalf of the Head Boy, Taha Faisal Khan and the entire DP class of 2022, followed with the valedictorian speech that took everyone on a nostalgic journey of LAI life. She spoke eloquently about the common responsibilities of the educated, their generation and the young share; to receive and impart. She reminded everyone of the life lessons that they would, as a class, remember and memories they will cherish forever.
The emotional evening continued with a cake cutting by DP II, the customary mortarboard hat flipping and graduation photographs, all fostering alumni relations, creating a sense of unity and belonging amongst students, faculty and the parent body. The ceremony concluded with a scrumptious Hi Tea and all students were given tokens of memorabilia from the school.
DP II Farewell and MYP V Good Luck Party
It is a tradition at LEARNING ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL to celebrate the academic journey of our outgoing DP II batch, graduating to university with a farewell and MYP V advancing to DP I with a good luck party. We at LAI believe events like these help foster a sense of unity and belonging amongst our students, as they cherish good times spent together.
For this, the students of DP I and MYP IV organized and hosted a Farewell and Good Luck Party followed by dinner for their seniors last week. The faculty and the students amid high emotions and nostalgia attended the event. The students had prepped skits with fun titles in good humour given to the faculty, DP II graduates and MYP IV, that received a lot of laughs.
The décor and ambiance was done in neon lights and fluorescent colours, reflecting the neo modern times our young students are heading towards. The evening was spent taking pictures followed by a dinner and cake cutting ceremony.
The DP I and MYP IV as hosts had compiled a collection of old photos and videos of the two batches from their early years and junior classes that brought back remembrances and tears to the eyes. The commemorative ceremony was concluded with good byes and good luck for bright future endeavours.
BLESSINGS IN A BOX
“Every act of kindness is charity.” Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.)
During the blessed month of Ramadan, and to observe Juma-tul-Wida the entire student body of Learning Alliance International - PYP , MYP and DP initiated a community service project; a charity box drive, called ‘Blessings in a Box’. Students participated with immense enthusiasm, showing care, love, and responsibility towards the less privileged students of the Government School next door. Through this initiative, students familiarize themselves with the concept of Zakat and Sadqa as integral part of our religious practices.
During the whole month of Ramadan the LAI students collected the boxes, beautifully wrapped and decorated them with handwritten greetings and personalized messages. These boxes contained stationary, festive items, eatables, books and personal hygiene items etc selected with utmost care.
Sharing is indeed caring, not just for the needy, but for all who are around us. A single act of charity can impact a person’s life in such a positive way we can’t even comprehend. The essence of our beloved Prophet’s saying was instilled in our students through making them participate in this activity.
LAI students reflected on being compassionate and considerate individuals of our community, as they enthusiastically and wholeheartedly participated in this social cause making the best out of this Holy month.
The Spirit of Pakistan Day
“My message to you all is of hope, courage and confidence. Let us mobilize all our resources in a systematic and organized way and tackle the grave issues that confront us with the grim determination and discipline worthy of a great nation.”
Marching into Spring
Punjab Cultural Day Celebrations
"If we are to preserve culture, we must continue to create it." _ Johan Huizinga
Celebrating International WOMEN'S Day
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where differences are valued and celebrated. IBDP, MYP and PYP celebrating International Women’s Day, with all its students presenting and discussing ways they can forge women's equality.
LAI taking a collective initiative so we can all #Breakthebias.
“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” - Mother TeresaNewsletter
QUILL & SCROLL Honor Society membership
We are pleased to announce that Eshaal Fatima Bashir of IBDP II has been nominated for Quill and Scroll Honor Society membership. The induction ceremony was held on 17th December 2021 at the Eye on Ivy Head Office in Lahore. She is amongst a handful of high school students selected from Pakistan.
Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society for High School Journalists was founded in 1926. It recognizes and encourages both individual and group achievements in scholastic journalism.
MYP & DP trip to 'Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur'
The Kartarpur Corridor is known as the corridor of ‘International peace and harmony’ and is a 4.2-km-long passage connecting the town of Dera Baba Nanak in India with the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan’s Narowal district.The LAI MYP & DP students visited this place of immense historic and religious significance in full protocol, observing the sanctity and decorum of this place of Sikh pilgrimage. The IB learners explored the main Gurdwara and the 20-foot well, made of small red bricks which is 500 years old and believed to have been built during the lifetime of Guru Nanak Dev. The students learned about the three principles of Kirat Karo, Naam Japo, Wand Chako, which Guru Nanak gave, meaning ‘work hard for a livelihood, keep remembering God and share your bounties with the world'. ’Guru's teachings have been for inter faith harmony, peace and universal brotherhood. Guru Nanak believed in equality between castes, religions, and genders and gave the word ‘Ik Onkar’ meaning there is only one God. They also learned about the 5 K's of their Faith. The students thoroughly enjoyed the visit and came back with a spiritually enlightened mind about Sikhism.
LAI Observing 73rd death anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam
The 73rd death anniversary of the father of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who gave the Muslims of South Asia a separate country on the basis of Two Nation Ideology, is being observed today.
Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah is counted among people who have achieved prominence owing to their struggles and accomplishments.
Students of LAI IBDP engaged in a discussion regarding the importance of freedom, human rights and the significance of a seperate nation. The MYP students, in their INS class discussed the challenges and problems people of Pakistan face today; and how to make it a prosperous country by following Quaid’s principles. In Language Acquisition - URDU, The MYP I wrote an essay on 'Mera Pyara Pakistan, and had conversations about the struggles of making an Independent State by Jinnah."
A moment of silence was observed as tribute to the "Founder of the Nation". People from different walks of life visit the Quaid’s mausoleum in Karachi to offer Fateha and lay floral wreaths on his grave.
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DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMME
"The need for imagination, as a sense of truth, and as a feeling of responsibility -- these are the three forces which are the very nerve of education."
― Rudolf Steiner
The Distance Learning Programme at LAI resumed after Spring Break, as students excitedly returned to their classrooms ready to move on with their learning. The teachers welcomed the students with interesting plans for their Google meet sessions and the children enthusiastically told stories about the much awaited break - It was interesting to see the varied and colourful interactions between the teachers and students through the use of Jamboards, Padlets, interactive white boards and informative videos. The students enjoyed their Unit of Inquiry, Numeracy and Literacy lessons focusing on ATL skills and the activities involving Gymnastics, Public Speaking and Visual Arts. As the MYP worked on their Personal Project with their mentors, DP students planned the next phase of their learning journey after their success in securing admissions into the sought after universities around the world and PYP students pored over their PYP Exhibition plans, the first day after the resumption of DLP remained an exciting affair throughout.
Through the use of a carefully planned and coherent curriculum DLP at Learning Alliance International continues to provide an interactive and effective platform in these unusual times. This structure and planning was visible in all the classrooms today as the teachers and the learners engaged in an invigorating experience of sharing and learning about the various concepts together.
University Admissions of IBDP II
Exciting times for us here at LAI !! Our IBDP II students have received fabulous offers from some of the leading Universities in the UK, Canada and USA. They have been accepted into schools of Computer Sciences, Economics & Business, Political Sciences, Business & Film.
Congratulations are in order for Rehan, Sherhan and Rafay on outstanding admissions into their dream universities. Well done!!
Celebrating the 23rd of March, Pakistan Day
Celebrating International Women's Day 2021
International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political
Marked annually on March 8th, International Women's Day (
celebrate women's achievements, raise awareness about women's equality, lobby for accelerated gender parity and fundraising for female-focused charities
The campaign theme for International Women's Day
Rizq is a social enterprise that has been working towards ending hunger in Pakistan. It does this through a variety of Fundraising Programs and Donation Drives that fund a network of Food Banks all over the country. The food banks use these donations to distribute rations to the deserving. Rizq helps people with low income, widows with no support, and families in poverty through such programs.Recently, Rizq has been making efforts to reach out to the youth of Pakistan, engaging them in fundraising activities, leadership programs and internships to involve them in their mission to combat Food Insecurity. Since January 2021, students from DPI Learning Alliance International have been working with Rizq as a part of this initiative.
On Monday, 1st March 2021, as a part of the DP I CAS experience, the students visited the Azhar and Rehana Foundation to start up a 6 month long process of distributing rations to families registered with Rizq. They were introduced to how Rizq carries out its services. The DP I students plan to continue collaborating with them in similar Community Service activities in the future.
It gives us great pleasure to announce that Zuha Haider of DP-I, won the Best Essay Award from amongst multiple winning entrees of 11th grade students across the globe, who took part in the Harvard Global Women's Empowerment (GlobalWE) essay contest for 2020-2021. Her essay will be published as part of a compilation of winning essays from around the world - a commendable feat indeed! The book will be printed after the completion of a few more contest cycles.
The student Council and the CAS @ Learning Alliance International organized an Inter-class Parliamentary Debates competition, on February 9th, 2021.Two students from each grade across the MYP and DP represented their class in the competition. The MYP and DP students presented their arguments for the given prompts with much fervor and articulation.
The following prompts were given for the MYP & DP Inter-class Parliamentary Debates Competition:The House believes that self-driving cars will make driving safer.
MYP-I (A) & MYP-I (B)
The House believes humans should fear AI (artificial intelligence).
MYP-II (A) & MYP-II (B)
The House believes that we should not expect our online activities to remain private in the digital age.
MYP-III & MYP-IV
The House believes that a bilateral solution is key to solving the Kashmir issue.
MYP-V & DP-I
The following are the winners of the MYP & DP Inter-class Parliamentary Debates competition:
MYP-I (A) vs MYP-I (B) winner : Mehak Nabil Ikram and Dina Umair
MYP-II (A) vs MYP-II (B) winner : Eshal Ahmad and Aiza Hussain
MYP-III vs MYP-IV winner : Rahaymah Azam and Afnan Shafqat
DP-I vs MYP-V winner : Riva Khan and Rahym Faisal
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“Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.” - John F KennedyWorld Children’s Day is celebrated on the 20th of November every year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children about their rights and improving their welfare. At LAI the day was stretched into a weeklong celebration (on campus as well as on DLP) , where the concept of Identity and the rights of the children were discussed with the PYP students .An Art Competition was held to bring out the creativity and artistic talents among young artists, encouraging them to research, think and express themselves using the art medium of their choice. The fantastic displays of colour and unique insights into the minds of our young learners were a treat to witness , bringing forward the issues faced by children everywhere in the world.
LAI Talks 2020
LAI Talks is a recent initiative by IBDP students. It is an event that will allow students around the globe to interact with each other, have productive discussions, and find common grounds in their experiences.
This year, our topic of exploration was ‘The impact of COVID-19’. The discussion panel included participants from India, Colombia, Turkey, United States , Guam and Pakistan.
Students of grades IX to XII participated in 2 rounds in 4 separate categories to debate and discuss the topic through different lenses, the 1st one being a debate-style presentation and 4 schools were chosen to qualify into Round 2 which was an impromptu discussion. They were asked to research and present their arguments in a comprehensive manner while also making personal connections to the subject matter. The participants were judged on the 3 C's Clarity, Confidence and Comprehensiveness.
Our special guest Judges were Ms Maryam Usman (Communications and Sustainability Specialist) and Mr Baber Naseem (Social Development Specialist, World Bank)
In total there were 16 schools and 19 teams competing. IB schools from Lahore including TNS and LGSi were active participants alongwith Learning Alliance Aziz Avenue and DHA phase VIII campuses.
Simone Endress from Pedro Mendez High school - USA secured the 1st position ( Best Speaker ) in the competition.
For IB students, it was a valuable CAS experience as it touched upon learning outcomes like ‘Global Engagement’. It was also a great platform for IB as well as CAIE to enhance their ‘Collaborative’ and ‘Global Perspectives and Research Skills’.
The aim of the event was for all participants to gain insight into how the pandemic has affected different facets of life for people around the world. LAI talks 2020 was a productive learning experience and will be hosted by LAI students every year.
A TRIBUTE TO IQBAL - 'POET OF THE EAST'
“The ultimate aim of the ego is not to see something, but to be something” Allama Iqbal
IB@LAI celebrated Iqbal Day on 9th November, with utmost zeal and gusto, to commemorate the life and vision of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, “Poet of the East”.
Iqbal's philosophy and vision had been discussed in class in the weeks preceding the performance and teachers as well as students were thoroughly involved in the process. Iqbal's writings especially with reference to his poems with a message for children was a favourite topic in class discussions both on campus and virtually.
During the ceremony to commemorate the poet the students recited his all time favourite poems and spoke about the poet with reference to IB learner profile attributes like "principled ", "knowledgeable" and "thinker". Discussing these attributes gave them a real life context of philosophy and ideology present in the poems of Allama Iqbal. In MYP and DP students explored the philosophy, political views and intellect of the great poet through his work and studied in depth the impact he had on shaping the identity of Muslims of the Subcontinent.
There was a Q & A session at the end to spark some interesting points of view and insights from our young learners.
The recitals, speeches and performances gave an opportunity to the students to gather on a platform and reflect upon the great influence of Allama Iqbal on the spiritual and political awakening of Muslims of the subcontinent paving the way for the birth of Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
One of the Highest SAT Score in Pakistan
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF AWARENESS OF FOOD LOSS AND WASTE
This year students in IB observed the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste. Since this happened to fall during these unusual times, that has brought about a global wake-up on the need to transform and rethink the balance of the way our food is produced and consumed.
Reducing food losses and waste is essential in a world where the number of people affected by hunger has been slowly on the rise since 2014, and tons and tons of edible food are lost and/or wasted every day. Food loss and waste also puts unnecessary pressure on the natural resource base and on the environment, depleting the natural resource base and generating greenhouse gases. Students in PYP discussed what it meant for people in different parts of the world to go without food and what can be done to resolve the issue. MYP and DP classes had interactive sessions about the importance of creating awareness regarding the food wastage.
Observance of international days like these correspond to an important component of learning in IB to take meaningful action. For the people. For the planet.
LAI GLOBAL CONNECTIONS
The ESS WION is a Global Discussion Forum organised by the Symbiosis International School, Pune, India on the subject, Sustainable Development Goals 2030. IB DP students, Roshanaq Usman and Zuha Fatima from Learning Alliance International represented Pakistan in the discussion with the aim to present their perspectives on the importance of protecting the environment. This program embodies an ongoing experience where students from around the world will be participating and sharing their views and ideas to enhance their knowledge base and widen their horizons about being a part of a global community of lifelong learners committed to preserving the environment for a sustainable future.
CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE
Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
This year, it has been clearer than ever that we are not each other’s enemies. Rather, our common enemy is a tireless virus that threatens our health, security and very way of life. COVID-19 has thrown our world into turmoil and forcibly reminded us that what happens in one part of the planet can impact people everywhere. Learning Alliance International as an Educational Institution stands in solidarity with The United Nations in inviting all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities during the Day, and to otherwise commemorate the Day through education and public awareness on issues related to peace.
IB MYP & DP had talks and activities during their 'Hybrid Learning Plan' to learn and discuss how the International Day of Peace should be dedicated to fostering dialogue and collecting ideas. How we as a society need to stand together with the UN against attempts to promote discrimination or hatred. and how to celebrate this day by spreading compassion, kindness and hope in the face of the pandemic.
PYP V learnt about the International Day of Peace and why it is observed around the world on 21st of September every year.
Connecting back to their learning earlier during the UOI, the students looked at some quotes about Peace by Martin Luther King and discussed them for better understanding. PYP V also wrote their own "I Have a Dream" speeches to raise awareness about issues close to their heart in the present times. They also brainstormed ideas about peace keeping using the Jamboard.|
In Numeracy, students of PYP did numerical analysis of the text. Lesson started with the 'See-Think-Wonder' activity. Later they analyzed different texts on International Peace Day, practised the numerical information and made posters.
The Veiled Truth by Roshanaq Usman
The Veiled Truth is a composition about real, living, breathing individuals who share their soul-searching endeavors, written and projected in the form of poems and prose.
The poetry displayed in the book sheds light on the truth about one's predicaments and bewildering circumstances in which they are told to remain tranquil and veiled. The poems also embody peculiarities of these individuals which are known to be profoundly obscure in a general society.
In short, The Veiled Truth is not only a book for reading but instead a journey to walk through, as the reader is left to write an ending for themselves, by themselves.
IBDP CAS PROJECT - Akhuwat's Virtual Internship Programme
Zuha Haider has been interning at Akhuwat since the 10th of August, 2020. It mostly consists of attending online sessions with different people at the organization, such as Syed Rehan Hussain (Chief Operating Officer of Akhuwat Microfinance), Abu Bakr Siddique (Chief Coordinator) and Dr. Amjad Saqib (Founder of Akhuwat Foundation & Social Entrepreneur). During these sessions, besides learning about the organisation in general, its philosophy of "Mawakhat-e-Medina", its mission, principles and workings, she has been using this opportunity to learn essential skills required in the development sector.She has been a part of discussion topics like the importance of helping others, setting goals, aspirations, and character building. Along with this, she was also part of group projects that included:
- Raising substantial funds for the underprivileged.
- Initiating a clothing drive and collecting articles of clothing to donate to the Akhuwat Clothes Bank.
- Writing a report and presenting the topic "Earning opportunities for the underprivileged in trying times'.
14th AUGUST - CELEBRATING PAKISTAN
73 years ago, at the stroke of midnight on August 14, 1947, Pakistan
became a self-ruling nation. "Land of the Pure" is celebrated all over the globe on this day, commemorating the efforts and the vision of the leaders and the resolve of the people. Keeping up with the traditions, green and white was the colour seen everywhere in IB @ LAI today, from the jubilant faces of our learners in PYP, with the little flags painted and waving, to the fabulous backdrops visible in our virtual classrooms. The strings of twinkling lights, balloons and little flags were hand held by our younger students while our students in MYP and DP spoke about what it means to be a Pakistani. After a celebratory start of the day with the National Anthem and recitation, there were documentaries about the magical northern areas, interactive Jamboards and exciting conversations including colourful posters and measurement of the dimensions of the flag - speaking about what Green and White stand for. The festive atmosphere was thoroughly enjoyed by the teachers and students alike and everyone had something to say about the love of their country, whether it involved virtual colourful post-its on the online forums to singing along of patriotic songs .The colors represent peace and prosperity, but to most celebrants they signify pride to be a part of a resilient and strong nation, ready to take its place in the forefront of the globe.
NEW BEGINNINGS - IB ORIENTATION & WELCOME BACK PARTY
Beginning of the school year is marked with vibrance and wonderful colours
exuded by the bright and shiny welcome notes and book packs tied with ribbons and name tags. IB @ LAI (PYP, MYP & DP) had its Orientation with the students and books pack collection held on the 5th and 6th of August, where teachers met the students in a virtual class and parents collected the book packs from the school building. A virtual Welcome Back Party for all the new students in their brand new grade levels was held on 7th of August, where students and teachers after getting to know each other on Orientation Day, interacted on online platforms, playing games and having fun filled ice breaker activities. The students introduced themselves and got to know their new friends and facilitators through various ingenious games and activities designed by the Homeroom and Subject teachers. The spirits were high and the environment all around was festive, despite the unusual nature of the circumstances surrounding a very non-traditional beginning to a new school year. As the Distance Learning Programme is set to resume with its standard protocols on the 10th of August, we wish our students and the entire school community a wholesome start to a new and exciting year ahead.
DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMME @ LEARNING ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL
WEEK 2
This week the virtual classrooms of DLP@LAI were abuzz with the discussions on Human Rights, Non Violence and Rights of the Children, in light of the World Day against Child Labour , where students looked at the various factors that push families to engage their underage children to toil under extremely hazardous circumstances, negating their right to safety and education among others. Students in PYP and MYP also talked about World Change Makers; qualities of great leaders and their struggle to propagate peace and "Ahimsa" in the world. The myriad of themes involved Patterns in Nature in Visual Art and Patterns in a Story in Literacy classrooms along with the concept of Supply, Demand and Factors influencing economic development of countries. Since the PYP is working under the transdisciplinary theme, Sharing the Planet, Conservation remains a binding concept for many class presentations and discussions.
The DLP@ LAI with its range of various concepts brings together an interesting mix of ideas, which is surely refreshing to witness across different grade levels in these interesting times.
June Distance Learning Programme Week 2
The Distance Learning Programme @ LAI is in full swing with our commitment to provide a high-quality learning experience for our students. The virtual classrooms remain a hub of scintillating interactions between our eager students and fully trained teachers. This week was about finding out the Central Idea of Poems in Urdu and Vincent Van Gogh's artistic wonders in their art classes. While our DP students discussed HL and SL courses, MYP and PYP lessons revolved around clarification of concepts involving Types of Sentences, States of Matter, Fractions and Shapes. It is indeed fantastic to witness the energy with which our young learners communicate their thoughts and ideas, trying to grasp the sense of a rapidly evolving world around them.
World Environment Day
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.”
Robert Swan
World Environment Day is celebrated every year for environmental action on June 5, to engage governments, businesses and citizens to focus their efforts on a pressing environmental issue.
This year, the theme, biodiversity took center stage in all virtual classrooms at Learning Alliance International. Recent events, from bushfires in Brazil, the United States, and Australia to locust infestations across East Africa all the way to Pakistan – and now, a global disease pandemic were discussed by the MYP and DP students; Google meet sessions became the platform where they expressed their opinions about the ways and means to spread awareness regarding the concerns facing us as a human race.
PYP with its transdisciplinary approach, dabbled in the topic through whole numbers and decimals in Mathematics, Recycling in the Unit of Inquiry, Animal and Plants life cycle in Science, and Summarizing the where and how of Ecosystems in Literacy. Since PYP is brushing up on its concepts under the theme “Sharing the Planet”, students were already studying renewable energy and conservation in their different subject groups. The theme brought together an invigorating thought process across different grade levels, where threats to plants, animals and even marine life were discussed. It was insightful to witness our learners gathering their thoughts and ideas together to decipher the message Nature is sending us.
DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMME - JUNE 2020
“When the untapped potential of a student meets the liberating art of a teacher, a miracle unfolds.”
– Mary Hatwood Futrell
JUNE DLP DAY 1
The Distance Learning Programme at LAI resumed after a month long Summer Break, as students excitedly returned to their classrooms before transitioning to their next grade levels. The teachers welcomed the students with interesting plans for their Google Meet sessions and the children enthusiastically told stories about their summers - It was interesting to see the varied and colourful interactions between the teachers and students through the use of Jamboards, Padlets, interactive white boards and informative videos. The students enjoyed their Unit of Inquiry lessons focusing on ATL skills and the activities involving Gymnastics, Public Speaking and Visual Arts.
Through the use of a carefully planned and coherent curriculum DLP at Learning Alliance International continues to provide an interactive and effective platform in these unusual times. This structure and planning was visible in all the classrooms today as the teachers and the young learners engaged in an invigorating experience of sharing and learning about the various concepts together.
Newsletter
Our entire PYP, MYP and DP staff at Learning Alliance International has done an amazing job!! They made a seamless transition to remote leaning in just a couple of days!! Incredible passion, dedication and commitment!! They did not leave our IB students alone in these trying times!! Highlights of LAI Distance Learning Program: Newsletter
LAI IBDP students represent Pakistan
in an online global discussion on:
The Impact of the Lockdown on Environment & Society
Several schools came together to discuss the ‘Impacts of the Lockdown on Environment & Society’ from across the globe, on Friday, 10th April 2020 at 5:00 p.m. PST. Learning Alliance International, IB DP students engaged in this online session as well. Students were asked to represent their region and a total of 53 students from 17 schools, represented countries like India, Turkey, United Kingdom, Panama, Eastern Europe, and Bangladesh.
As part of their Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) curriculum, Rafay Waqar, Shahzeen Naveed, Aleezay Ahmed and the ESS Facilitator, Ms. Sadia Falak Sher of IB DP, Learning Alliance International represented Pakistan by using a combination of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods and referencing credible sources to exhibit their work in a presentation to other global IB schools. The students discussed how the air quality index has improved since January resulting in the clear sky and the enhanced visibility of the moon and stars as observed by astronomical researchers. They also shared the cultural values of Pakistan's close knitted society, and how people came to the help of the poor by distributing rations during the Lockdown.
The session highlighted the environmental, socio-economic and psychological impacts of the lock down in these countries. The effects of the lock down on the LEDCs and MEDCs were compared. The three approaches; ecocentric, technocentric, anthropocentric were also linked in terms of the mitigation strategies to the epidemic. The session concluded with the opinion of having these lock downs as a tool to rejuvenate the Earth and regenerate the carrying capacity of the environment. Emphasis was made on sustainable development practices rather than focusing on lock downs that will stunt economic growth. This session was concluded with a meaningful discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of Covid-19 on the environment.
Distance Learning Programme
If there was ever a time in which the phrase 'taking the learning beyond the classroom' was more relatable, this is it. And if there was ever a time, where teachers went over and beyond to assist the children in learning, this has been it. While the world has come to a standstill following the COVID 19, the school closure has given our learning community an opportunity to organise and express themselves in ways that are non-traditional, challenging but certainly rewarding. IB Distance Learning Programme was put into place as a result of hard work and dedication of teachers and administration to minimise the effect of unprecedented situation affecting millions around the globe. The online curriculum was whetted, and teacher trainings took place over the course of the days during which every aspect of regular teaching in the classroom was discussed and simulated.
DLP @ Learning Alliance International (IB) was put into active practice and regular classes using online platforms were organised. The students and teachers on a virtual platform thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company and worked together to develop a seamless fluent communication with each other through Google Classrooms and Google Meet. This high-octane energy was witnessed by the parents as well who became their children's learning companions. As the weeks are progressing, we, as a school community, are joining hands together with our students and parents to become lifelong learners, even in these extraordinary times; striving to emerge, more powerful and better equipped with new skills set in a new, more resilient world, hopeful in the power of the human spirit.
A TRIBUTE TO DR. ALLAMA MUHAMMAD IQBAL - POET OF THE EAST
“It is the nature of the self to manifest itself
In every atom slumbers the might of the self.” - Allama Iqbal
PYP celebrated Iqbal Day on 9th November, with utmost zeal and gusto, to commemorate the life and vision of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, ‘Poet of the East’.
Iqbal's philosophy and vision had been discussed in class in the weeks preceding the performance and teachers as well as students were thoroughly involved in the process. Iqbal's writings especially with reference to his poems with a message for children was a favourite topic in class discussions.
PYP I & II had a short assembly where they spoke about the vision and philosophy of Iqbal in the form of an interesting presentation.
Students performed a role play on Iqbal's famous poems, ‘Humdardi’ and ‘Makra aur Makhi’. Their short skits were well prepared and thoroughly enjoyed by the audience.
The highlight of the event was when our students spoke about the poet with reference to IB learner profile attributes like ‘principled ‘, ‘knowledgeable’ and ‘thinker’. Discussing these attributes gave them a real-life context of philosophy and ideology present in the poems of Allama Iqbal. The assembly ended with the poems of Iqbal sung by our students with zeal and fervor and in the loud applause of the audience.
The recitals and performances gave an opportunity to the students of PYP to gather on a platform and reflect upon the great influence of Dr. Allama Iqbal on the spiritual and political awakening of the Muslims of the subcontinent paving the way for the birth of Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
International Earth Day
International Earth Day is observed globally each year on the 22nd of April; however, the Earth Day 2020 is no more the same what it has been over the past so many years!! Now, it is a time to hold hands digitally with people all around the globe and rise up in a united call for the creativity, innovation, ambition, and bravery that we need, to meet our climate crisis and seize the enormous opportunities of a zero-carbon future.
Learning Alliance International along with its students and teachers celebrated the Earth Day 2020, with an unusual zeal and vigour. In their DLP Literacy class, they reviewed their concept of Figurative Language while talking about how they can help protect and care for our planet. In their Numeracy online class, the concept of Recycling was revisited during the problem solving , whereas in Visual Art, it was about how little things can make a big difference, inspired from the story of 'The Dot'. In MYP and DP, there were discussions on the concept of environmental degradation and Citizenship along with the responsibility that comes with it. There was a unanimous agreement that Climate change represents the biggest challenge to the future of humanity and the life-support systems that make our world habitable.
It is interesting to note that learning in IB takes place on different levels of generating Inquiry, Reflection and then undertaking Action; this time around on Earth Day, the IB community at LAI, vowed to flood the digital landscape with hope, optimism and action, joining the global conversations on saving our planet.
International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is being observed worldwide to acknowledge the outstanding contributions by women in different fields across the globe with the theme “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights”.
The United Nations first celebrated International Women’s Day during International Women’s Year in 1975. By 1977, the UN and its member states declared March 8 as an official day for women’s rights and world peace. In her statement for International Women’s Day, UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka highlighted 2020 as the year for gender equality and calls on everyone to tackle the persistent barriers against gender equality.
“We don’t have an equal world at the moment and women are angry and concerned about the future”, she said. “They are radically impatient for change. It’s an impatience that runs deep, and it has been brewing for years”.
Just like every special occasion, IB @ LAI celebrated International Women’s Day with much fervor. To mark the day that represents both the history and the significance it has for women across generations, a panel discussion and debate on the topic was held with the MYP and DP students. The students actively participated and expressed their views on 'Gender Roles' observed in our society, the 'Aurat March' and the status of women in our religion & Pakistan; which was a treat to observe. The PYP students held interactive sessions with their homeroom teachers, making posters, watching informative videos and sharing their opinions about the most inspiring women in their life.
As today’s women stand on the shoulders of those who have fought and made sacrifices in the generations past, they likewise carry the legacy of the movement forward. Here’s to the women across industries, sectors, nations, ages and cultures, who persist tirelessly to take charge together - paving the way for future generations to come.
IB - Information Session and Teacher Training Workshops
with
Helen Barrett and Malcolm Nicolson
We, at Learning Alliance International continue to strive for excellence and provide the best quality experience for our students, parent body and faculty. In this spirit Learning Alliance held an information session conducted by seasoned educators, Ms. Helen Barrett and Mr. Malcom Nicolson, for our Learning Alliance International parent body and their guests on Thursday, 5th March 2020 from 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. in the Learning Alliance DHA Amphitheater. This was targeted towards two types of audience; our existing PYP, MYP and DP parents who wanted to know more about the scope of IB education in Pakistan and the rest of the world with special emphasis on University placements after MYP V and DP. This session also aimed to address the potential IB parent body who is in the process of deciding about their child’s future learning pathways as parents from other branches of Learning Alliance which run CAIE O and A level programmes were also invited.
Helen Barrett is the Director of On Route Education, an educational consultancy company that provides complete support to schools around the world implementing IB programmes. Helen joined the International Baccalaureate in the Hague as Head of PYP Development where she initiated and directed the successful review of the PYP. Malcolm Nicolson is the Director of Erimus Education, an educational consultancy company that also specialises in providing bespoke support for schools around the world implementing IB programmes. Malcolm started working for the IB in Cardiff and the Hague. He was Head of MYP Development from 2007 - 2013 and initiated and directed the first ever review of an IB programme, MYP: the next chapter. After successfully revising the MYP he became Head of DP Development from 2013 -2015, where he introduced DP Approaches to Teaching and Learning (ATLs).
Later on, training workshops were held for the PYP faculty by Ms Helen Barrett, and for MYP and DP faculty by Mr Malcolm Nicolson, where they worked with the PYP teachers on Assessment, Inquiry and Agency, MYP teachers on Approaches to Learning and Developing e-Portfolios & Personal Projects and DP teachers on Internal Assessments and Incorporating Approaches to Learning in the curriculum.
The day ended with both the parents and the entire International Baccalaureate faculty leaving with updated information and knowledge about the IB programme.
Continuous Professional Development is what makes the learning and teaching in IB unique from the usual way it is conducted otherwise. We believe in lifelong learning and this is manifested through the carefully orchestrated Master Training Sessions which prove to have great takeaways for everyone.
Sustainabili-tree Project
Communities play an important role in highlighting the issue of environment and sustainability and learning institutions have the power to champion this cause based on their interaction with the future citizens of the world.
Learning Alliance International is proud to be associated with Prime Minister’s “Tree Plantation Drive” since last year and our students make a continuous effort in making Pakistan Green. The ‘Sustainabili-tree Project’ is one such initiative by LAI for planting trees on our own campuses as well as neighboring areas.
MYP I & DP I as part of their Personal Project and CAS ( Community , Activity , Service ) respectively, planted saplings around the ground at the School Campus Phase VIII, DHA. The MYP I students also designed name tags for their trees using various graphic softwares. The DP I students not only mentored the MYP I but also managed and documented the event. It was a great opportunity for all students to learn about sustainability and to become an active member of making Pakistan Green again!
7th Annual Sports week
Learning Alliance DHA organized its 7th Annual Sports Week for the Classes VI to A level, MYP & DP from 3 rd February to 7 th February 2020. All the students actively participated in this week and displayed a high level of sportsmanship. The student's excitement was unmatched as they rushed to their Captains and Vice Captains to sign up for a variety of games like football, basketball, throw ball, table tennis and cricket.The opening ceremony in itself was a hit as the audience enjoyed an enthralling
gymnastics performance.
Boys and girls from different classes fought for the glory of their respective houses that boosted a sense of healthy competition among the students as well as inculcated the element of responsibility and strategic thinking in our students. Each house displayed outstanding skills and sportsman spirit and after a nail biting tie-breaker between Griffin and Titans, Griffin lifted the winning trophy. The house mates cheered for their house
ecstatically which was a sight to see. The medals were given to the winners by the Middle School Vice Principal Ms. Nadia Mir. The week ended with the proud winners bagging medals home delightedly after a finesse performance in all events.
LGS JT INNOVENTIONS
Students of IB DP-I represented their school at LGS Johar Town’s interschool Olympiad titled Innoventions from Friday, 13th to Sunday, 15th September 2019. Designed to test the students’ cognitive ability and scientific curiosity, the competition was an integration of Science, Mathematics, Robotics, Arts and Information Technology. From the myriad of possible competitions available, our students chose the rounds Enfilade, Final Problem and Novum. Not only were the students able to sharpen their collaboration, self-management and leadership skills, they were able to participate in a process that involved a range of diverse peers from a large number of schools in Lahore, creating a rich learning experience for them.
IB World Schools Manager visits LAI
IB Worlds School Manager, Mr. Clarke Stroupe visited Learning Alliance International on Tuesday, September 24, 2019.
Mr. Clarke toured the campus and met with the faculty and administration of all three departments: PYP, MYP and DP. He recognized the commendable efforts and the seamless implementation of all three IB Programmes and the IB philosophy by Learning Alliance International.
During his visit, he engaged with our learners and was amazed by their quick-witted responses to his questions. A normal day at IB LAI consists of different activities conducted during and around the lessons focused on building skills.
At home time, Mr. Clarke also had a chance to meet with some of our active parents who greeted him and provided him with positive feedback regarding LAI.
The Nation's Pride
Defence Day is celebrated in Pakistan every year on 6th September, as a national day to commemorate the sacrifices made by Pakistani soldiers in defending its borders in the war of 1965.
IB@Learning Alliance International observed Defence Day with an assembly in the amphitheater where they spoke about what it means to be a proud Pakistani and the sacrifices of the soldiers for the love of their homeland in the line of duty.
PYP started off with their heartfelt speeches about how it’s important to stand with the soldiers and Pakistan army, while at the same time understanding the importance of global peace. Students of MYP spoke about the current state of affairs in Kashmir and the significance of solidarity with the soldiers and the sanctity of borders as India continues to oppress the basic human right of freedom for Kashmiris. DP students expressed their opinion about how war is never a solution but it’s imperative to have an ever vigilant army to defend the borders against any unwarranted hostile situations.
The highlight of the event was when our little learners from PYP spoke impromptu about their feelings for their homeland. There was a cheer from the crowd and everyone present, when the little voices expressed their views confidently.
Throughout the day, the spirit of patriotism was prevalent in school, with the colourful displays, handwritten messages to the armed forces, posters and relevant videos where everyone stood proud to be a part of a progressive nation.
NEW BEGINNINGS in IB@LAI
Students of IB@LAI commenced the new academic year with a range of engaging activities aimed at developing their mental focus and energizing and immersing them in the framework of student centered learning. Students started their first day with the usual gusto through various mindfulness and physical activities. These self-management skills in the Approaches to Learning (ATL) skill framework works on enhancing the discipline and reflection in students.
In PYP, students took a round of the PYP block, with the new students familiarizing themselves with the sights and sounds and the administrative block. Taekwondo, Gymnastics, Life Skills, Kathak, Yoga and Music lessons made learning and orientation a fun experience. The entire first week, overall, kept the students captivated with a creative introduction and recapping of IB concepts such as Learner Profile, Command terms, Key and related concepts, global contexts etc. through games such as Missing numbers and alphabets, Pictionary, Scrabble and multiple other competitive team activities, allowing students to socialize and foster healthy collaboration with each other.
In MYP there was an activity revolved around the symbolic analogy of a glass jar of water and glitter to the human mind, cluttered with thoughts. Following this, a one minute meditation routine was also conducted in selected classes. The Science classes conducted in laboratory along with activities in Yoga, Performing and Visual Arts captivated the students and made them connect their learning to real life.
Students in Diploma Programme with the subjects of their choice including but not limited to Film, Business Management, Sciences and much more, were introduced to different career pathways. An interesting activity was the Rubik’s Cube, the solution of which requires memorization and spatial reasoning skills.
Throughout the first two weeks of new academic session, the IB block was an interesting place where new learning pathways were discovered and thoroughly enjoyed by the students.
Reflection on Nestle Trip
Our grade DP 1 and MYP 5 signed up for an educational trip to Nestle Sheikhupura factory. It is a multi-product facility of Nestle and is amongst the largest manufacturing factories in Asia. It took us half an hour to reach the location. The bus left the school at 8 o’ clock. The journey was a lot of fun and a bonding experience between DP 1 and MYP 5 students. I really enjoyed the ride as we played cards and talked.
We reached the factory at 10:35 a.m. At first glance the factory looked very majestic and breathtaking. Our tour started off with an introductory presentation on how health and safety of the employees and customers is Nestlé’s number one priority. They gave us custom-made shoes and coats for safety. We then continued on into the factory by starting off with the water section. I liked how the guide was loud and clear which made her understandable. The factory was very organized and had a detailed process of working. We then visited the milk section, in which we saw how the cartons were made and how the milk was taken from the supplier and cleaned of harmful bacteria. Modern technology was used in the factory such as different machines which was not expected by us. They taught us how the milk was distributed from the suppliers to the consumers.
From that, we headed to the tasting sector. The walk between both areas was also enjoyable. It helped in getting a view or look inside a working factory and helped in increasing our knowledge of how it operated. I would say one of the best parts of the trip was the tasting sector. The team told us that every day a group of taste critics would help them come up with better formulas for the consumers to make it tastier. We even got to taste different juices. In addition, the staff and the team seemed very professional and followed strict protocols. A break was given to us between the walks to hydrate. We were given kit Kat chocolate bars and juices.
A small visit to the lab was also done to show us how the formulas were developed. The last visit was to the warehouse where stacks of juices and milk were placed. At the end of the trip we ate in the hall. The food was exceptional and fresh. Later on, we were taken back to the conference room were some of my fellow students including me gave testimonies for our experience.
I think this educational trip was fantastic. It helped to see the factory from a business perspective and increase our knowledge on the packaging, stocking and distribution of companies. It was a worth-while trip to visit the largest Nestle manufacturing factory is Asia. It was a great learning experience.
Info Session with Mr. Jasim Sheikh
The IBDP Economics class had a very successful and informative 30 minute interactive session with guest speaker; Mr. Jasim Sheikh, on the topic of 'Demand and Supply and its application in the real world'.
Mr. Sheikh is a Masters in Development Economics and MBA from LUMS, with over a decade of experience in global microfinance. He is currently Founder and CEO of Pak Shine, a renewable energy social enterprise incubated at the Social Enterprise Development Center with a strategic partnership with Telenor Velocity.
Students from O3 and A1 were invited to attend.
Info Session with Dr. Theresa
The IBDP Economics students attended a lecture by Dr. Theresa Chaudhry who is a Professor of Economics and a fellow at the Centre for Research in Economics and Business (CREB) at the Lahore School of Economics.
Dr. Chaudhry is also a research affiliate with the International Growth Centre (IGC) in the UK. She received a BS in Foreign Service from Georgetown University in 1996, and a PhD in Economics from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2005. Prior to teaching at the Lahore School, Dr. Chaudhry worked at the World Bank in Washington, D.C. on issues of public finance and public sector governance.