Dear Students, Parents, Colleagues and Friends of the FIS,
The final week before the winter break began for me with a brief reflective activity that felt particularly fitting for this last Head of School Update of the calendar year.
At our regular Safeguarding Team meeting, we opened with a check-in exercise called “Noticing Glimmers.” As you may recall from earlier communications, this school year marks our continued focus on Circles as part of our Restorative Practice journey. Circles are an impactful way to honor relationships and foster accountability within a community committed to growth and connection. “Noticing Glimmers” as a circle prompt invites us to pause and recognize small, often overlooked moments – an exchanged smile, an approving nod, or a genuine moment of connection. Sharing these experiences, even when they are as simple as a student or colleague greeting you by name, has a remarkable ability to lift our spirits and set a positive tone.
The past months have been both joyful and demanding. Events such as the Christmas Market, the Harry Potter Night, the Grade 9 Winter Sports Trip, the Christmas Jumper Day, the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Ceremony, and our many concerts brought energy and celebration to school life. At the same time, assignments, assessments, and deadlines can create pressure and, at times, anxiety. Our educators work intentionally to address these challenges by emphasizing our shared values and community expectations. Cultivating a positive inner stance – grounded in care, reflection, and connection – can make a meaningful difference during demanding periods. Practices like “Noticing Glimmers” may seem simple, yet they remind us that small moments of kindness and recognition can be powerful sources of resilience.
I recognize that some practices resonate more strongly with some people than with others, and that is both natural and valid. In our caring school community, it is important that we make room for different perspectives and approaches. What matters is that we continue to engage in open, respectful dialogue, learning from one another and strengthening the relationships that sit at the heart of our school.
With this spirit of reflection and connection, I wish you all a truly wonderful holiday season filled with rest, joy, and meaningful moments. Safe travels, and I look forward to seeing our community come together again on January 7, 2026.
Warm regards,
Petra Niemczyk
Head of School
