Curriculum News

Geography trip to Karura forest

On Wednesday, year 11 geography students went to Karura forest to undertake a fieldwork investigation. The two groups measured the characteristics of both the Karaura and Getathuru rivers that flow through the popular KWS-managed nature haven. In their preparation for their paper 4 exam, practising data collection methods such as width, depth, velocity, gradient, and bedload measurements are invaluable. The skills they learned on the trip will, I am sure, lead to positive outcomes in their final IGCSE exams next year. Special credit goes to all those students who entered the water to get wet and muddy in the name of geographical excellence.

Maddy Jackson

Geography teacher

World Swahili Day at Braeburn School

Braeburn School is thrilled to celebrate our Modern Foreign Languages, and on the 15th of September, we started with Swahili Language Day. This day held immense significance as it allowed us to reflect upon the beauty and cultural richness that Swahili brings to our diverse community.

Language is not just a means of communication; it is a gateway to understanding cultures, fostering empathy, and promoting inclusivity. Celebrating Swahili Language Day allowed us to recognise the importance of preserving and promoting this remarkable language. Swahili, as one of the most widely spoken languages in Africa, serves as a bridge that connects people across borders. By celebrating Swahili, we celebrated the heritage and identity of millions of people in East Africa and beyond.

Our school's commitment to promoting linguistic diversity is at the core of our educational philosophy. By celebrating Swahili Language Day, we celebrate the value of multilingualism, encouraging students, teachers, staff, and parents to appreciate and engage with different languages and cultures. This, in turn, helps Braeburn students become global citizens who are culturally aware and sensitive.

Daphné Hinault - Head of Faculty MFL

I think that it is very important for a community such as Braeburn to learn some basic Swahili as it honours the host country that it is located in. In addition, it is a great opportunity to learn another language and be able to communicate with the people around and by extension, learn the culture of the countries that speak it. I am particularly excited for the year 9 classes as they embark on this journey to learn Swahili and they are really seizing the opportunity to do so.

Here are some greetings you can try with a friend (Swahili vowels are open -similar to Spanish and Italian)

• You: Hujambo? (How are you?)
• Friend : Sijambo. (I'm fine)
• You: Habari yako? (How are you?)
• Friend: Nzuri. (Good)
• You: Asante. (Thank you).
• Friend: Karibu. (Welcome)
• You: Kwa heri (Goodbye)
• Friend: Kwa heri. (Goodbye)

Asanteni na kwa herini! (Thank you all and goodbye!)

Binti Grace Nangabo (Ms. Grace Nangabo)