Principal’s Report

13 February, 2015 Ta l a n o a Volume 1

Newsletter of International School SuvaNewsletter of International School SuvaNewsletter of International School Suva

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome back to the new school year and a particular welcome to families new to International School Suva. I have enjoyed meeting some of you at the recent parent information evenings and welcome assembly and look forward to meeting others throughout the year. As well as welcoming our new students and their families, we also welcome a number of new staff to school. Whilst I will introduce them here, I am delighted to also be including details of all our teaching staff in this issue of Talanoa. In the Primary School we are joined by Joseph Hedditch, Lauren Stearman, Amanda Vateitei and Salaseini Vatumoto. Mr Hedditch has a BSc in Exercise Science/Human Movement, a Graduate Diploma in Education from Victoria University and over five years teaching Physical Education to middle and primary school students. In addition to his primary PE classes, Mr Hedditch will also teach year 6 and 7. Ms Stearman joins our year 1 team. She has a BEd from Victoria University and worked in Melbourne as a Year 1 and 2 teacher before moving to Fiji. Mrs Vateitei has a MEd from Regis University, a BMus from University of Wisconsin and 10 years experience teaching in early childhood, she joins ISS in ECH2. Mrs Vatumoto has over 18 years experience teaching at various local kindergartens and joins the ECH team as a teacher assistant. In the Middle School we welcome Ms Renee Broughton into year 6, Mrs Shivana Gowin into year 7 and Mrs Rebekah Nabouta into the arts department. Ms Broughton has a BEd from the University of Wollongong and experience teaching in both upper primary and middle years as well as working as a youth leader for secondary-school children. Mrs Gowin has a BA in History, Politics and Language from the USP and 15 years experience teaching English and the humanities at various local secondary and tertiary institutions. She is currently covering for Tanya Vatubua who is on maternity leave. Ms Nabouta has a BMus from the University of Auckland and over twelve years teaching and performing of music. She has taught throughout the Pacific to students both in schools and tertiary institutions.

Finally in the high school, Mr Nemani Dianimoto will be teaching Mathematics and Economics and Ms Maria Dunbar is working with our Learning Support team. Mr Dianimoto has a BSc in Mathematics and Physics and an MBA. He has over 17 years teaching experience and joined ISS from the Curriculum Development Unit of the Ministry of Education. Ms Dunbar has a BA

from Griffith University and a Graduate Diploma of Education and MEd from Monash University. She has over 10 years teaching experience working in both Australia and China as an English as a Second Language and Learning Support teacher. During January many of our students received their external examination results and I congratulate them all. More details are given in the report from Mrs Navunisaravi in this issue of Talanoa. In addition many of our year 12 students of 2014 have already started to receive offers from universities around the world. These include places to study in Fiji at the University of the South Pacific, in Australia at Macquarie University, Monash University, the University of Sydney, the University of New South Wales, University of Canberra, University of South Australia, Australian National University, University of Melbourne, Griffith University and the Sydney University of Technology, in New Zealand at the University of Auckland, in Korea at Seoul University and in the United Kingdom at Newcastle University, University of Edinburgh and King’s College London. Congratulations to all these students. During the vacation work continued on our new building and we are hoping to start occupying the building in April. We are already planning a big ‘library-moving’ day when you will all be invited to school. Seeing how the building is coming together to link the primary and secondary sections of the school is very exciting and I know will add to our sense of community. I will end with two pleas. On Thursday 26th February we have the first of our annual blood drives from 9 am. We now have a core group of staff and students who donate four times a term, we would like to add parents to this group. We have one regular parent donor, but there is space for more. If you stay away from the key lunch time it is never too busy. Please do come along and donate. My second plea involves your used, but still useable, training shoes. We are looking to collect good, used running or training shoes to distribute to athletes in rural and island schools. If you have any suitable shoes please pass them to Salote Narayan, in the Marketing Office. We will then give them to Yasmin Drummond, wife of the British High Commissioner, who is implementing this project.

Anna Marsden

Inside this Issue

From the High School

2015 ISS Scholarship Recipients

Counselors Corners

Canteen Menu

Primary update

Library

PFTA in Motion

Shoe Project

Staff Profiles

Upcoming Events

From the High School

Welcome to everyone and an especial welcome to our new students and their parents. Our roll continues to increase and, although each Year level now has a roll that is in the forties, the biggest

change this year is the number of students in Year 12. The class of 2015 is 62% bigger than it was last year. There have been 10 new students join us in Year 9, 3 in Year 10, 7 in Year 11 and 1 in

Year 12. This includes the 2015 scholarship students, Sahil Kumar (ACT Year 12), Celeste Kado and Kelvin Liu (IB Diploma Year 11) all of whom have come from local Fiji schools. I hope that all our

new members of the ISS Community have felt welcomed and are enjoying their learning experience at ISS.

On another note I would like to congratulate the Year 12 class of 2014 and their teachers on the ACT and IB results. All Year 12 students achieved an ATAR score, in line with 2013 results, but an

improvement on 2012 and 2011 where 95% and 92% of students gained an ATAR score. The top score of 99.3 was achieved by our Dux, Maraia Pickering and the mean rank was 76.3. The 2014

cohort produced improved results as in 2013 11% of students attained an ATAR higher than 90, in 2014 28% did and 62% attained an ATAR of 70 or greater. An improvement was noted in

performance on the on the AST (scaling test) in terms of the writing and short response sections reflecting the additional practice the students undertook.

The top Diploma score of 38 was obtained by our second Dux Anna Bythell. Our average score for the IB Diploma of 30 was comparable with world averages. One student received a Bilingual

Diploma, doing Self Taught Korean A literature instead of a second language. In comparing subject results to World Averages, it is notable that those from ISS were favorable in a number of subjects

with students receiving a top score of 7 in some subjects.

Congratulations also go to the Year 10 class of 2014 for their performance in the IGCSE examinations. This is the second year of compulsory attendance at examinations and the results were very

reasonable. A 100% pass rate was obtained by those students sitting the examinations in May in either Cambridge International Mathematics or Foreign Language Mandarin. 15 students attained

the ICE. There is a slight increase in the number of students receiving A*s however, compared to 2013, there is some consistency or a slight decrease in the % numbers of A-C grades. 65% of

students achieved a C or higher in their subjects. This is an achievement given that students are not refused access to the examination. This year the IGCSE grades have provided a good benchmark

for indicating potential course choice in Year 11.

This will be the first year that students in Year 11 must choose either the IB Diploma Program or the ACT Year 12 Certificate and declare their interest from the beginning of the two year program. The

separation has come at the request of both parents and students who feel that asking students to fulfill the assessment requirements of both programs is too demanding. There is opportunity to

move from the IB Diploma to an ACT program at the end of the year should results and performance indicate the need to do so. What is important is that parents and children talk about their course

options in terms of future aspirations and university plans. It is important to look online and check entrance requirements for the university your child is interested in attending and being very

strategic about ensuring that they are doing the correct course and can maximize their performance. The earlier that this is done in the High School the better!

The 2014 graduating class have applied and received acceptances to universities around the world, chiefly Australia and New Zealand, but some students have entry to colleges elsewhere such as

the UK or Korea or locally at USP. This year a new initiative is underway to assist students to make those tough choices about careers and university destinations. Whilst the Careers Expo will run on

March 5th, a series of short seminars will be run at school, open to all students in the High School. These will be short presentations from people passionate about their profession, hopefully giving

students more of a personal insight about a particular profession or career path and an opportunity to glean information about what the pre-requisites are to get there. Any parent interested in being

a presenter in this program is encouraged to get in touch with Amerika Grewel or Cristina Lavina on the PTFA. The extended work experience period for Year 10 proved very successful in helping

students decide on future directions and appropriate course choices as did the introduction of Work Experience in Year 11 for the first time for the ACT-only students in 2014.

Another new initiative is that students will participate in a building project with the Habitat for Humanity in Kuku village in Nausori. Only ten year 11 and 12 students could participate and I think it

speaks volumes for our students that the interest was such that we had to select by drawing the names from a hat. Our students are always willing and interested in working in the community and

have initiated a lot of interesting projects in the past and sometimes have worked with agencies as well. I look forward to further such initiatives. Kate Reimann (the CAS / DOE and Activities

Coordinator) would welcome any ideas or links to potential avenues for service work that parents can provide.

It has been an exciting start to the year and I would like to wish all of our students all the very best for their studies this year and would like to congratulate our 2013 graduates on their start of the

next stage of their life, whether it be university, a gap year, work or just life!

Megan Navunisaravi,

Head of High School

COMING SOON BEAUTY AND THE BEAST IS ON ITS WAY TO ISS IN 2015 Based on the Disney classic with a difference…….You will have the opportunity to

meet Belle, who worries when her father's horse returns home without him, and

decides to seek out her father. Eventually, she winds up at the Beast's castle where

she meets the enchanted objects who cheer her up, and comes face to face with a

Beast, who she does not want to know at first….but fate does have a way of chang-

ing things….stay tuned to Talanoa in the coming weeks for more information.

2015 ISS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

(L - R) Kelvin Liao (Yr. 11), Sahil Kumar (Yr. 12), Celeste Kado (Yr 11)

Kelvin Liao - “ISS motivates me to become the best that I can be, trying my best to overcome all my obstacles and the curriculum ISS provides does just that.”

(2014 - Yat Sen Secondary School) Sahil Kumar - “I believe that ISS is the best platform for Universities abroad. In

addition, being amongst a diverse culture of students in ISS, motivates me to work towards my goal.” (2014 - Gospel High School)

Celeste Kado - “I really love how ISS encourages students to be well rounded

and global minded and I feel that it has brought out the best in me.” (2014 - Yat Sen Secondary School)

Counselors Corners Bula and welcome back to another year of hard work, challenges and fun!!!   

As  we  begin  a  new  school  year,  the  me  is  right  to  sit  with  our  children/adolescents  to  discuss  the         importance of goal se ng in their personal and academic lives. To be able to succeed in our endeavors, we need  goals.  For  without  goals,  one  would  lack  focus  and  direc on.  Goal  se ng  not  only  allows  an          individual to take control of their life’s direc on, but it also provides a benchmark for determining whether one is actually succeeding.   

The Fiji Times dated Sunday January 11 featured an ar cle by Kelera Kotobalavu, and a line read, “not hav‐ing a clear goal is like having no target to aim at, and just aiming at anything that comes your way. It has no power.”  

  Make your goals very specific – don’t be too general  If you create a goal, you have to be sure you believe in it before you can achieve it  Be around people who help you grow, not those who discourage your dreams   Be accountable and truthful to yourself about your goals 

 You have to own a burning desire to achieve the goals you set out, or you never will    If you don’t feel your goal is big enough for you – make a new one. 

 

The ISS Careers Expo 2015 is scheduled for Thursday 5 March, from 3pm to 5pm in the MPH. The aim of this program is to provide students with an opportunity and a pla orm to gather informa on about   differ-ent career fields. It is important for students to make informed choices regarding their future career. The Careers Expo offers a chance to gather the necessary informa on and understanding of what is      required of them to be able to enter a par cular field. There will be at least 30 different career fields being promot-ed by generous exhibitors.  Careers Expo ’s rs students’ curiosity and encourages them to engage in their own research as they seek opportuni es in reaching their career goal. So do come long and join us at the Careers Expo.   

For most students career planning is a great challenge and something that they do not really want to think about  but  the  reality  is,  that without  prior  planning,  research,  careful  thought  and  the  comple ng  of     necessary applica on forms, students could miss out on opportuni es that are available.  This is definitely something that each student and parent must start thinking about. Each student of  ISS will have to follow this same process when they arrive at Year 12  and the earlier one starts thinking about future educa on plans the be er prepared they will be to handle the stress that comes with future planning.   

The ISS PTFA is also planning college and career readiness events for this year. If you are able to share your professional interests and introduce young minds to your field, please contact the school.   

We all need prac cal and realis c goals to achieve whatever we have set out to do. Acknowledging and affirming each others’ efforts is vital in building self-determina on. So let us work together this year as students, parents, teachers and friends to make the best use of opportuni es presented to us this year.  

Wishing you all a successful 2015  Fenella David  School Counsellor fdavid@interna onal.school.  

International School Canteen - Term 1 2015 What’s New

Sushi Containers - ($5/$7.50/$10/$15) (Available only on Thursday & Friday)

Quick n Easy Bites Wraps Chicken $3.00/ Vegetarian $2.50/Egg $3.00

Sub Sandwiches Chicken $4.00/Vegetarian $3.50 (Whole meal/White)

Snacks Homemade – Cake/Custard Pie Slice (Less added sugar) $1.00

Carrot & Cucumber Stick/Fruit Stick- $1.00

Popcorn/Whole Fruit/Slices - $1.00/$0.50

Hot Meals Salads Fast Food

Monday *Sweet & Sour Chicken with Rice - $6.50 *Vegetable Pineapple Fried Rice & Salad - $5

*Rocket Chicken Salad - $5.50 *Rocket Coral Lettuce Salad $4.50

Roasted Chicken with Salad - $5

Tuesday *Baked Fish with Jacket Potato & Vegetables - $6.50 *Pan Fried Vegetables with Jacket Potato - $5

*Fish Salad - $5.50 *Rosemary Potato Salad - $4.50

Burger with Coleslaw Salad - $5

Wednesday *Chicken Chow mein - $6.50 *Vegetable Chow mein - $5

*Tuna with Ota Salad - $5.50 *Ota Salad - $4.50

Grilled Fish with Salad - $5

Thursday *Grilled Chicken with Dalo & Salad - $6.50 *Dhal with Roti & Salad - $5

*Chicken Pasta Salad - $5.50 *Vegetarian Pasta Salad - $4.50

Sausages with Dalo & Salad - $5

Friday *Chicken Palau with Salad - $6.50 *Vegetable Palau with Salad - $5

*Egg Salad - $5.50 *Potato Salad - $4.50

Roasted Chicken with Salad - $5

Drinks Fruit Juice 100% in a cup - $1.00 (Chilled: Pineapple/Apple/mix Fruit Juice etc)

Juice Boxes (250ml) - $1.20 Juice Boxes (1 Liter) - $3.20

Icy Box Icy Fruity Box - $1.00

Primary UpdatePrimary UpdatePrimary Update Welcome to the first primary update via the Talanoa for 2015. We have had a fantastic start to the learning year and all classrooms are in full swing! Thank you for your support in helping the begin-ning of school to be so great for one and all.

Let us begin by first thanking all of the parents who participated in our annual parent opinion survey last year. Out of the 300+ survey links sent out to emails, we had 77 primary parents respond. Results for this survey are currently being aggregated and analyzed by administration and staff; the results of which will be shared with you all once completed. At a quick glance, there are some common threads of which we can address as a whole school. Thanks again to those parents who took the time to share with us your opinions on all areas of schooling. The student opinion survey results were very pleasing and will also be shared with you in the near future. This week we would like to share with you our ISA results from 2014. Annually, our Year 3—5 stu-dents participate in ISA, the International Schools’ Assessment program designed especially for stu-dents in international school. It is based on the internationally endorsed reading and mathematical literacy frameworks of the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).

In 2014, over 37 000 students from 204 international schools participated in the program. It is im-portant as an international school that we have an external measure of our school’s performance in relation to other international schools so as to gauge the success of our teaching and learning and to be able to plan for improvements and celebrate successes. We have included a table which highlights our mean scores in relation to all other schools who participated in the assessment. Our results speak for themselves. How do we then use these results to help plan for the future? Much time is spent with teachers further analyzing each area, looking specifically at the areas or comprehension types within the assessments, highlighting areas of need and planning for improvement within our class-room teaching. If a particular strand in math's or area in reading becomes a target area, then we look at the system or curriculum in place to further enhance or improve what is already being done. This could result in using a common reading strategy across the school to assist with reading comprehen-sion such as the one we use at ISS, SCORE. For those parents new to ISS, the SCORE strategy provides a schema (a mental model) that supports a reader to independently comprehend and respond to text. The SCORE strategy (or sequence of actions) aims to create strategic readers, bridging the gap be-tween sound classroom reading pedagogy and successful reading by students. Since its introduction and continual revision as new teachers enter the school, we have seen our reading results increase. Our focus to increasing literacy standards across primary has been one of success and will continue to be as we now focus on the writing areas and how to teach writing as a whole school. We feel as a staff, that our students’ writing, particularly narrative writing could be improved. We would love our students as a whole to follow the same process with writing as they move from year level to year lev-el, speaking the same ‘writing’ language and building upon skills each year rather than repeating un-necessary elements. So that’s what we are doing this term and next. We will keep you informed as to

what this will all encompass as we travel the road of ‘writing success’. Along with the teaching of writing, we also hope to review and re-establish our whole school handwriting program. Once again, you will hear all about it! As well as our ISA assessment, Reception to Year 5 students participate in school based assessments called PAT, of which we also use as part of our analysis and comparisons. At the beginning of the year, we use the PAT assessments to establish what students already know. It is only by the end of the year, where we assess once more, that we get to see the real picture of a student’s, class, year level and primary school progress in these given areas. These are the results we use in conjunction with ISA and other classroom assessments including observations to form our analysis and feedback for the next school year.

If you wish to know more about the process, send an email or come in and see me. We can discuss it further. In the meantime, please check out our primary website which has now been added to in the curriculum department. Here you will find our scope and sequences for Mathematics and Language, including Spelling and a little more about our ‘written’ and ‘taught’ curriculum. http://internationalschoolsuvaprimary.weebly.com/the-written-curriculum.html is where you will the ‘what’ of what we teach and http://internationalschoolsuvaprimary.weebly.com/the-taught-curriculum.html is where you will find the ‘how’ we teach. All of our documents including ‘How We Teach Spelling’, ‘How We Teach Reading’ and ‘How We Teach Mathematics’ can be found here. We are of course, now working on our Writing documents. Our scope and sequence documents were aligned with curriculum from Australia, New Zealand, the UK and USA and our ‘how to’ documents based on shared best practice, here and around the world.

Thanks again for a terrific start to the school year; your attendance to our family events and the par-ent information evening included. Our first Primary Press will be coming to your email inboxes at the end of Week 6. Here you will find information from right across the school including our Support for Learning program, year level and single subject updates and other primary information. We will also include the first article about ‘Bullying’ as part of our Responsible Plan for Behaviour here at ISS. Have a great fortnight! Karen and the Primary Team

February 13, 2015

Library NEW in the library?

Magazines More available in the library

Welcome to the first Library newsletter in Talanoa. 2015 is an exciting year for us and more so for the library as we look forward to the completion of our brand

new library. In this update, I would like to share with you the wonderful resources available in

the library

Savvy iPads and laptops

Apart from our stand alone computers, the library has 3 lap tops that students can use in the library. We also have 2

iPads. These iPads are equipped with a pre loaded selection of apps including our online subscriptions to magazines.

In the Primary section of the library, we

have 17 XO laptop for our young primary researchers.

Library Online Databases The library subscribes to the following

databases with 24 hrs access

Log in details available in the library webpage :

http://issfijilibrary.weebly.com Mrs. Wakanisi Vaciloa

Librarian

Library Opening Hours

7.30am - 4.00pm Close on weekends.

For more information,

Email: li-brary@international.school.fj

Visit the Library Website: http://issfijilibrary.weebly.com/

Learner Profile focus… CARING!

Caring students show their love for reading. They are helpful to other library users and enjoy sharing a

book with a friend. They are happy to share limited resources as well

as their knowledge.

CWM Service Club member preparing for their first visit in Week 6. Students will trav-el down to the Children’s Ward at the CWM hospital every Tuesday to read, and bring alive stories using puppets, and run educa-tional activities. This program is supervised by library staff.

Bula Vinaka to all parents, students and teachers! 2015 promises to become yet again a year full of opportunities. As all ISS stakeholders automatically are members of the PTFA, I suggest you please take the time to find out what your PTFA does. The PTFA is established to offer you the opportunity to contribute to the social and academic life of your child(ren) at ISS. Through the Parent Liaisons in every class level, our messages in the Talanoa and Primary Press or via our ptfa email, and via the PTFA signboards around school, we aim to make sure you get the information you need. The PTFA also provides a conduit for parents' concerns when needed. We organize several social get-togethers again this year that cater to the variety of needs of our diverse group of families. It is our aim to create fun and interesting value-for-money events. We do raise some profit, and pledge to donate 10% to local charities. That indicates that 90% remains to benefit the students at school. Please visit the school website to be informed on how we spend these funds.

Your feedback and new ideas makes us grow bigger and better. Please let tell us what / how you like us to organize events or you could be involved in.

Your input is also requested in how to spend the funds raised at ISS. The PTFA also has a seat on the School Council and in the Canteen, Marketing and Facilities Committees. Contact us if you would like to contribute to this! What will 2015 bring? Firstly, a new committee is to be elected at the AGM, next week Friday 20 Feb. Like every year, they will set and review the year and are open to implement new ideas at ISS. It is suggested to replace the ‘Arts, Craft Food Day’ with an ‘International Culture Day’ alternating annually with a ‘ISS Family Sports Day’. ‘Career Information Seminars’ for secondary students are new in 2015. Do you have time to present your career and related studies? Our students will benefit very much from your involvement! The dates for our ‘Quiz & Curry Night’, ‘Fun Day’; the best event in town, ‘Halloween’ and ‘Garage Sale’ will be set soon and we will continue to provide healthy snacks at Athletics and Swim Carnivals.

We need all input during the year to make PTFA fun and lighter work for all busy parents.

Do volunteer your time or ideas.

The Parent Liaisons Classrooms will have a volunteer parent for this important liaison position. Their involvement includes: proactively contact new families to welcome them, introduce to others and inform them on the school activities etc; ensure the Telephone Tree details are up to date every term; Assist in organizing the annual Fun Day year-level activity, i.e. coordinating the themed basket etc; Help organize an annual class party and enrichment opportunities If your year level is interested. Get to know your PL to get connected.

Parents Teachers & Friends Association (PTFA) in motion

Term 1 dates Wk 5; Friday 20 February 2015; Annual General Meeting @ 8am in Secondary Staff Room, a convenient time between drop off and the Whole School Induction Assembly @ 9.20am. Wk 6; Wednesday 25 February @ 2.40pm, monthly PTFA meetings. (every last Wed of the month). Location tbc. Your child may attend or play outside. Happy Hour Social Chat Drinks with ISS parents – every 2nd Wednesday at Grand Pacific Hotel, 5-7pm.

Questions and suggestions? President Patricia Evers; 9364802, evers@connect.com.fj

Secretary Nigel Dowdeswell; 9999167, nomates90@hotmail.com or ptfa@international.school.fj.

Befriend us International School Suva PTFA Visit: school website: aboutus/ptfa

 

   Last revised: January 2015. ptfa@international.school.fj or FB International School Suva PTFA   ‐ page 1 of 3   

    

ACTIVE KIDS, ACTIVE SUVA !

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES for the YOUTH of SUVA Kindly compiled by the PTFA of International School Suva 

NEW: Brochures received from international student Summer or Study Camps are available at the ISS Library. Disclaimer: While all reasonable effort is made to ensure that the information provided on this document is accurate, no guarantees for the currency or accuracy of  information are made.  International School Suva and  its PTFA do not accept any  responsibility  for any problem, misinformation, accident, damage  to your child following their participation in one or more activities provided in this list. This list is not meant to be exclusive and needs to be reviewed on a regular basis.  

 

Last revised: January 2015. ptfa@international.school.fj or FB International School Suva PTFA.  

NAME of ACTIVITY  DATE & TIME LOCATION AGE GROUP COST  CONTACT DETAILSRako Pasifica Youth Club: Island Dance (fast&slow beat/ Rotuman Tiap Hi, Hip Hop) Music Class (guitar/vocal for beginners/ Pacific drum) Fitness. 

Mon/Wed/Thurs/ Fridays from 3.00pm. 

29 Brewster St Toorak / 1 Bulei Rd Laucala Beach, opp. Raghwan Construction. 

All youth.  $20/individual classes & $5‐$10/pp for group classes, minimum 5‐ max. 20. 

Samuela Taukave (Skillz) 9053975 / rakopasefikafiji.blogspot.com. 

VOU Music & Dance School 

Times according to age groups.  2014: Term 2:  14 April‐6 June/  Term 3: 21 July‐12 Sep/ Term 4: 27 Oct‐12 Dec. 

The VOU Studios, 30 Desvouex Rd, Suva.  

From 3 yrs to adult.  $100/8 wk term (classes 2‐3 times/wk depending on course). 

sachikosoro@gmail.com, 999 9966, www.voufiji.com and www.facebook.com/VOUFiji. 

Oceania Centre: Kaji, Creative & Hip Hop 

Afternoons and Saturdays.  

Oceania Centre at Uni. South Pacific 

3‐5, 6‐18 & 6‐15  yrs. 

8 wks sessions $150. 

Jesoni.naga@usp.ac.fj 32 32832 

Piano Lesson  Afternoons and holiday classes. 

Tamavua.  From age 5.  $30 per session.  Mrs Gulnara 9380131. 

Violin lesson  By appointment.  Tamavua.  From age 5.  $30 per session.  Mrs Zhanna Mukhametz‐hanova 9307947. 

Piano Lesson  Upon request.  FNU in Raiwaqa.        Mr Delai 9219558. 

Piano tuning   Upon request. Professional from New Zealand flies in when sufficient bookings received. 

Your home.     To be confirmed. 

Robin Palmer robinandla@connect.com.fj. 

French  Class at the Alliance Française For non‐native French primary students. Adult classes available too. 

Non Native French speakers: Tuesdays from 2.45 to 3.45pm. Native French  speakers: 3.30pm ‐4.30pm. 

92 Ratu Sukuna Road, Nasese.   

Possible classes for native French 7‐11 yrs. Groups of min. 7. 

From $8.30 to $12.25/hour for 10 wk course. 

331 3802 allifra@af‐fiji.org.fj / www.af‐fiji.org.fj. 

Fijian Class at the Alliance Française 

Monday to Friday 9am‐7.30pm, depending on teacher availability. 

92 Ratu Sukuna Road, Nasese.   

Private lessons upon request. 

Sets of  5hrs $220, 10hrs $450,  20hrs $850. 

331 3802 allifra@af‐fiji.org.fj / www.af‐fiji.org.fj. 

Junior Sailing Program at Royal Suva Yacht Club 

2015: Sundays 1‐4pm. April to November. Dates TBC 

RSYC in Walu Bay.  8‐18 yrs; must complete 100m unaided open water swim test 

$300 + RSYC Junior membership. 

RSYC 9922921 rsycreception@kidanet.com.fj / Patricia Evers 9364802. 

KaiWai Outrigger Canoe Club 

Mon ‐ Friday between 3.30 ‐ 5.30pm. Saturday: based on tide. 

Lami & Suva Base (next to Novotel Lami).  

13‐19 yrs, must complete swim test, life jacket provided. 

 $50/season, 3 sessions/wk. 

Talei 9181900. 

 

   Last revised: January 2015. ptfa@international.school.fj or FB International School Suva PTFA   ‐ page 2 of 3   

NAME of ACTIVITY  DATE & TIME  LOCATION  AGE GROUP  COST  CONTACT DETAILS 

Fiji Outrigger Canoeing Junior Development Program 

Mon/Thurs 4–5pm.  National Canoe Centre Laucala Bay (next to FNU maritime school) 

From 10, must complete 100m swim test unaided, life jacket provided. 

No cost for 2014. 

Katerina Syngellakis kat_syngellakis@yahoo.co.uk / 9992079 

Babale Swim Club  Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 4 ‐ 5pm. 

Suva Olympic Pool.  From 4 ‐ teenagers, in 4 levels of ability. 

$36/month. Club rego fee $20/year. 

David Dugucanavanua 8323789. 

Dolphin Swim Club  Mon/Wed/Thurs/Friday & Squad training AM & PM for advanced. 

Aquatic Center, Laucala.  

Different level groups. 

$50 family rego. + $20/yr /member +  $30‐$50/mth coaching. 

Head Coach Sharon Smith 8640678.  

Suva Stingrays Swim Club  PM Mon‐Sat. & AM Tues‐Thurs, Sat. for squad. 

Aquatic Center, Laucala.

Different level groups.

   Eka 9941260 or Trisa 9209044.

Tritons Swim Club  Depending on age group.  Aquatic center, Laucala.   

All different.   About $30/month. 

Terence Elaisa / tritonsswimclubfiji@yahoo.com / 9997899. 

Elite competition Squad Training & Masters (comp. swim) 

Tues/Thurs 5.30 ‐7pm @ SOP & Mon/Wed/Fri 5.30‐7am @ AP. 

Suva Olympic Pool or Aquatic Center. 

      Jennifer Liew 9991661, jliew@international.school.fj. 

Nipper Beach Awareness Program 

Fridays 3 ‐ 4:30pm.  USP foreshore Suva Point Sailing Centre.

8‐16 yrs.  $2/child.  Bronwyn Soko 9402510 / wscfinfo@gmail.com.

Race (swim) Club Fiji   4.30 ‐ 6pm.  Suva Olympic Pool.     Franchised to Race Club USA. 

Viliame Takayawa 94344797. 

Suva Scuba, variety of courses. 

Upon request.   From Royal Suva Yacht Club. 

From 8 yrs.  Open Water course $625, other courses upon request. 

Greg Buxton 9279938 / greg@suvascuba.com / FB suvascuba 

Rock climbing experience Fiji 

On request and availability of coach. 

Nausori Baptist School, next to Rewa Bridge. 

All.  From $5/pp.  Manasa 9995311 / 9950636 / FB Rock clim bing experience Fiji. 

Tennis  Sunday 9‐10am and on request. 

USP Tennis Court / Victoria Tennis Court. 

From 4 yrs.  $5/pp.  Junior 996 5380. 

Suva Junior Football Club  Saturday 8.30‐10.30am.  DAV College in Nabua  6‐12 yrs    Suvajuniorfootball@gmail.com.

Archery  Saturday at 12pm.  Behind St Joseph School Waimanu Rd. 

   Free, unless joining a club. 

Ajay 9996630. 

Jung Do Martial Art  Tues & Thurs 4.30pm ‐ 5.30pm. 

Civic Center.  From 9 yrs.  $20 per month.  Master Saizel 9954848. 

Taekwondo Association Club 

Mon  & Wed 4pm.  Civic Center.        Sang Hyun Ra (Master Ra) 8356377 dream3600@nate.com

Taekwondo Fiji  Tues & Thurs 6‐7pm.  USP big gym.   All ages.   $60/months  + $30 annual rego 

Sang Hyun Ra (Master Ra) 8356377 dream3600@nate.com 

Karate Club at YMCA  Mon & Wed 4 ‐ 5.30pm. Saturdays 10am ‐12.30pm. 

YMCA gym, Waimanu Road. 

      Steven Brown. 

Sporting Pulse Fiji Triathlon 

Meets every month.  

Varies.  From 13 yrs, individuals or group of 3.

$5/pp, $15/ team. Can hire equipment. 

andrew.pene@gmail.com  

Vodu UA Board Riders Club 

Surf clinics & comps all year round depending on tides. 

Natadola Beach.  Must become member. 

   No new contact yet. 

All Stars Sports Academy  (Tennis Program) 

Mon/Wednesday: 12.30‐1.15pm 2‐3yrs  3‐3.45pm 3‐5yrs  3.45‐4.30pm 5‐7yrs  4.30‐5.15pm 7‐9yrs  5.15‐6pm 9‐11yrs. Saturday: 9‐10am 3‐5yrs 10‐11am 5‐7yrs 11‐12 noon 7‐9yrs 12‐1pm 9‐11yrs.  

Mon/Wed at FMF Gymnasium.     Saturday at ISS Hall (for ISS Students only). 

 2 – 12 year old.   $80 fee, incl uniform + discount card to Sports World + Term fee (8 wks) $160pp 1x/wk $290pp 2x/wk $385pp 3x/wk 

Starts January 26th. 

Enrol at Sports World Damodar from December 4th. Christine 7774441 / fijiallstarsacademy@gmail.com. 

All Stars Sports Academy  (Soccer Program) 

Tues/Thursday:12.30‐1.15pm 2‐3yrs  3‐3.45pm 3‐5yrs  3.45‐4.30pm 5‐7yrs  4.30‐5.15pm 7‐9yrs  5.15‐6pm 9‐11yrs. Sunday: 9‐10am 3‐5yrs 10‐11am 5‐7yrs  11‐12 noon 7‐9yrs  12‐1pm 9‐11yrs.  

Tues/Thurs at FMF Gymnasium.     Sunday at ISS Hall (for ISS Students only). 

 2 – 12 year old.   $80 fee, incl uniform + discount card to Sports World + Term fee (8 wks) $160pp 1x/wk $290pp 2x/wk $385pp 3x/wk 

Starts January 25th. Enrol at Sports World Damodar from December 4th. Christine 7774441 / fijiallstarsacademy@gmail.com. 

Table Tennis Fiji  Mon – Friday: 11 am – 7pm Teaching session: 3.30 – 4.30pm. 

Laucala Bay School hallnext to Aquatic Center (committed to table tennis only). 

From 9 years.Counsellors to teach/supervise 

 $1 for an hour session. 

Anthony Ho (President) anthonyhofiji@gmail.com 

 

 

SHOE

PROJECT

We are currently looking for good, used running or training shoes to distribute to athletes in rural and island schools. If you have any suitable shoes please pass them to Salote Narayan, in the Marketing Office. The shoes are for track and field activities for secondary students. The intention is to collect sporting shoes for secondary school athletes preparing for the Coca Cola Games this year and can-not afford one . They will be distributed through sports teachers with the support of charities like Think Pacific. The collection peri-od will be January - March, and will be stored in the British High Commission Residence prior to distribution. This project is imple-mented by Yasmin Drummond, the wife of the British High Commissioner.

Pure Fiji

Dee Cees

Vinod Patel Asco Motors

           

Interna onal School Suva wishes to  acknowledge the following sponsors for their generous support towards the 2014 

ISS Magazine. 

Anna Marsden

Principal

Anna Marsden worked in school administration in Zimbabwe and

Swaziland before moving to Fiji in November 2010. She has undergraduate degrees in

Mathematics and Science and postgraduate qualifications in

Chemistry and Education. She is a member of the Board of the East

Asia Regional Council of Schools, an IB workshop leader and a visiting

team member for both the Western Association of Schools and Colleges

and the International Baccalaureate.

Megan Navunisaravi Head of High School

After a wide range of work

experiences Megan became a secondary teacher in 1996 and has

not looked back! She has taught at ISS since 2006 and held a variety of

positions which include the Head of Science, IB Diploma Coordinator and Year Coordinator, her teaching focus

being in Biology. Her passion is to ensure that the students’ learning experiences help them reach their

potential, enabling them to be confident, effective individuals

capable of effecting change. She is very interested in ongoing school

improvement and has coordinated the WASC whole school accreditation process in 2008 and 2014 and the IB

Diploma Review in 2010.

Mere Fong

Head of Middle School

Mere qualified as a Middle School teacher in 1980 and has taught at ISS for 19 years. During this time she has taught a variety of subjects, mainly

English and Social Science. Mere has held a variety of positions including but not limited to Year Level Coordinator,

MYP Coordinator, Supervisor for Educational Testing Services and Head

of Middle School. She is also an accredited Tutor for the teacher

development course, Teaching ESL students in Mainstream Classrooms, from the Dept of Education, South Australia. Mere currently leads a dynamic team of Middle School

teachers, who have embraced the organizational re-structure of the

Middle School this year. She also has overall responsibility for the school

newsletter, Talanoa.

Karen Whittaker Head of Primary

Before moving to Fiji, Karen was rewarded and recognized for her 25 years of service to Education

Queensland, Australia. Karen has spent almost half of those 25 years

in leadership positions, including deputy principal and principal of primary schools with enrolments of up to 800 students. She has a bachelor's degree in education.

Michelle Forbes

Deputy Head of Primary

Miss Shelly Forbes is a certified primary teacher who has over 17 years experience in the classroom

and over 5 years experience

in curriculum development and administration. She aspires to be

the best PYP educator she can and lives to see her students succeed at everything they do while still having

fun. Miss Shelly enjoys reading, watching movies, going to the

beach, chatting to her mum

and dad via Skype and catching up with friends and family.

School Leadership Team

Discovery & ECH 1

Salasaini Vatumoto

Discovery / ECH1 Teacher Assistant Salasaini graduated with a Certificate in Early

Childhood Education. She is currently pursuing her BA majoring in Language. Salasaini spent six years

at International School Nadi previously.

Litia Naqica

Discovery / ECH1 Teacher Assistant Litia joined ISS in 2007 and continues to pursue her

degree in Early Childhood education. She is currently teacher assistant in the Green Cottage, working with

the Discovery and ECH1 groups.

Jacqui Boulton

Discovery / ECH1 Teacher Jacqui arrived at International School Suva in 1998 with a Diploma in Early Childhood Education. She

previously taught at Suva Point Kindergarten.

ECH2

Jodee Skiba

ECH2 Teacher Jodee received her Bachelor of Education and

Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of Brit-ish Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. She taught in

Wellington, New Zealand for a year before coming to ISS in October 2013.

Sai Vula

ECH2 Teacher Assistant Sai has been working at International School Suva as teacher assistant since 2000. She has attained her

Certificate in Early Childhood and is currently pursuing her Diploma. Sai is our most capable Early Childhood

2 assistant.

Amanda Vateitei

ECH2 Teacher

Amanda has been teaching in the USA and Kuwait for about 9 years. She has a Master Degree in Education from Regis University as well as an

International Teacher Certificate from the European Council of International Schools and Cambridge

University. Amanda is excited to be joining ISS as an

Reception

Sangeeta Sundar

Reception S Teacher Sangeeta presently teaches Early Childhood. She has

been teaching at ISS for 7 years. Sangeeta has a Diploma in Early Childhood and a Bachelor of

Education (Early Childhood) from the University of the South Pacific.

Anjalina Devi

Reception Teacher Assistant

Anjalina has a diploma in early childhood education and is currently pursuing a degree. Anjalina

joined ISS in 2009.

Chelsea Bulmer

Reception B Teacher Chelsea moved from Australia after completing her Bachelor of Education with a Health and PE major at the University of Ballarat in 2013. Teaching reception

at ISS is her first classroom teaching position.

Reception

Kasari Seru Teacher Assistant

I’m in Reception B under ESL. Complete my certificate in Child Care Program in

FNU in 2011. Now currently pursuing my Diploma In Early Childhood in USP.

Roshni Lata

Teacher Assistant

Roshni completed Certificate in Early Childhood Education at University of the South Pacific in 2010. She joined ISS last year and is currently

completing Diploma in Early Childhood Education.

Year 1

Lauren Stearman Year 1 Teacher

Lauren graduated from a Bachelor of Education with High Distinction at Victoria University in Melbourne, Australia in 2013. Her majors are physical education and health. She has 5 years experience working with early years (R-2). Lauren has held many leadership positions in the past and was awarded Lions Club

Youth of the Year - a nationally recognized community, public speaking and leadership award. She has volunteered in many schools in Indonesia and East Java; teaching English and maths. She is

also qualified sports coach.

Livini Bolalailai

Teacher Assistant Livini graduated from Brigham Young University with her teaching degree. Before her position of teacher assistant here at ISS, Livini was a class-room teacher at LDS Primary and High Schools. Livini has also done some relief teaching here at ISS during 2012. Livini is currently teaching as-

sistant for our Year 1 classes.

Michelle Forbes Year 1 Teacher

Miss Shelly Forbes is a certified primary teacher who has over 17 years experience in the classroom and over 5 years experience in curriculum development and administration. She aspires to be the best PYP

educator she can and lives to see her students succeed at everything they do while still having fun. Miss Shelly enjoys reading, watching movies, going

to the beach, chatting to her mum and dad via Skype and catching up with friends and family.

Year 2

Jitoko Bogitini

Year 2 Teacher Jitoko joined ISS in 2012 after completing his

Bachelor of Education (Primary) at the University of the South Pacific. Apart from his full time teaching,

Jitoko loves coaching rugby.

Navin Narayan Teacher Assistant

Navin has a Diploma in Information Technology from McGrath Institute of Business Australia. He started at

ISS this year and has a keen interest in Special and Inclusive Education. He also happens to be a sports enthusiast and is responsible for soccer and hockey

activities.

Kathryn Chang

Year 2 Teacher Kathryn has been a member of the ISS staff since

2009, having joined the school after teaching at an infant school in London. She graduated with a Bachelor of Education from Homerton College, Cambridge and has over ten years of teaching

experience. Kathryn is passionate about helping children in the lower primary develop into caring,

confident learners.

Year 3

Torika Jitoko

Teacher Assistant Torika has a passion for teaching and loves to teach students from the heart and not from the book. She joined ISS in 2005 and has enjoyed the challenges of

being a PYP teacher which has helped her professional growth. Torika has her teaching degree.

Josephine Augustine Teacher Assistant

Josephine has worked as a Teacher Assistant from ECH2 to Year 3. She is currently pursuing her Diploma

in Early Childhood Education.

Veniana Baledrokadroka

Year 3 Teacher Veniana has a Bachelor of Education from

Birmingham University and a Graduate Diploma in Special Needs (Blind and Visual Impairment) from

Burwood State College, now Deakin University Australia. She has worked widely with visually

impaired people both in Fiji and the region. Veniana joined ISS in 2000 and teachers Year 3.

Year 4

Sarah Raikabo

Reception Teacher Sarah Raikabo qualified as a teacher from the

University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia. She joined International School Suva in 2014.

Sereana Senidamanu Teacher Assistant

Sereana has a Diploma in Library and Information Studies from USP; a Teachers Certificate and currently pursuing a Degree in Sociology. She previously taught

at Ballantine Memorial School before joining ISS in 2004. Sereana was in our library for a few years prior to moving to ISS Primary. She has special passion for

Primary Math's.

Buffy Jack

Year 4 Teacher Originally from the USA with a Bachelor of Science in

Education and Social Science, Buffy is a certified teacher dedicated to improving the lives of youth in

the Pacific Islands.

Year 5

Shantini Saberi

Year 5 Teacher Shantini is a world citizen who is interested in

growth and development. She loves the educational process and enjoys seeing the future unfold through

young people.

Vosita Williams

Teacher Assistant A certified teacher, my last school was Yat Sen

Primary. Have taught in both rural and urban schools, joined ISS, in 2010.I am privileged to work here and have enjoyed the challenges I encounter each day.

This has contributed to my professional growth.

James McMorrow Year 5 Teacher

James received a Bachelor of Education (Primary) from the Australian Catholic University in

Melbourne, Australia. He started at the International School Suva in January 2014 and has worked in Learning Support and as a classroom teacher.

Specialist

Joseph Hedditch PSPE Teacher

Joe has a Bachelor Degree in Human Movement and a Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education both

attained at Victoria University Melbourne, Australia. He has been teaching PE for 5 years and has also worked for School Sport Victoria co-ordinating

Region wide sporting events associated with primary school sport. His two favourite sports are surfing and

AFL.

Emele Koroiwasa

PSPE Teacher Emele is a qualified Primary Teacher. She has a

Diploma and is currently working towards her Degree. She is enjoying her new role as a PSPE

Teacher Assistant.

Timothy Ulacake Music Teacher

Tim has been a Music teacher since the year 2000. He began his teaching journey teaching in Holy

Family Secondary School, Nadogo Secondary School, Veiuto Primary School and has been with us since

2005.

Rosi Uluiviti

PYP Coordinator

After 10 years of service in the local schools in Fiji, Rosi decided to return to the International Education scene in 2000 where she introduced and set up the IB Primary Years Programme at

International School Nadi as the Head of Primary and PYP coordinator. In 2007 she decided to take on a new challenge abroad joining International School Moshi Tanzania as the PYP coordinator. On her return to Fiji, mid-year 2010, she joined

ISS bringing with her years of experience as an IB Educator, adminstrator and PYP workshop leader

in the IB Asia Pacific region.

Subadra Chandra

Hindi Studies Teacher Subadra commenced teaching at ISS in 2009 after 20

years of service in the local schools of Fiji. Before joining ISS, Subadra was part of Curriculum

Development with Ministry of Education, Fiji. She graduated from the University of South Pacific with a

Bachelor of Education and Diploma in Educational Evaluation.

Lindy Stice

Visual Arts Teacher Lindy studied at Westmont College in California,

USA, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Art in 2000. She qualified as a teacher in 2002, and since has taught

all age levels from Early Childhood to High School. She joined the ISS teaching staff in 2011, and

enthusiastically began her current role teaching Visual Arts at ISS Primary in 2014.

Amelia Cumberbatch

Learning Support Teacher

Amelia has received a Bachelor of Business (Journalism) from Queensland University of

Technology and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning from the University of Southern Queen-sland. Her experience in education includes teaching

class, learning support, and ESL.

Dasha Singh

Teacher Assistant Dasha has a Diploma in Primary Education and

has XO certification from Australia. He is keen to bring technology into the classroom.

Naca Sikinairai ICT Teacher

Naca is a qualified teacher. He has been teaching at ISS for over 10 years. He is currently

working towards his Degree in Primary Education.

Carol Apted

Learning Support Teacher Carol has taught at ISS for many years. She

commenced teaching here after 19 years of service in

Fiji’s local schools, including Marist Brothers, Suva.

Cathy Kasatoka

Fijian Studies Teacher Having had teaching experiences in both rural and urban schools in Fiji, Cathy decided to take on the challenge of teaching at ISS. It has been a time of

personal and professional growth for her.

Learning Support

Inga Riedel-Narayan

Learning Support Teacher Inga joined ISS in 2011 and has since enjoyed

teaching students with special gifts. Originally from Germany she holds a master degree in teaching/

English as a Second language.

Lucy Otway

Learning Support Teacher Lucy has spent many years working in primary education in the U.K. In 2003 she completed a

diploma in Specific Learning Difficulties/Dyslexia; since then she has enjoyed helping children who experience a variety of difficulties in the role of

Learning Support Teacher

Shoma Prasad

Learning Support Teacher Shoma holds a degree in Early Childhood Education.

She is currently working towards her Bachelor of Education in Special Needs. Shoma has 6 years

teaching experience, of which 3 of those have been with Learning Support.

Librarian & Resource Room

Wakanisi Vaciloa

Librarian / Teacher Wakanisi taught for a few years in local schools

before changing her career to work in the library for more than ten years now. She graduated from Fulton

College for her teaching qualification and Charles Sturt University, Australia for her librarianship. She joined ISS in 2011 and is enjoying the challenge of

being an IB/PYP teacher librarian

Gerard Mustapha

Teacher Assistant / Resource Room Manager Gerard Mastapha is currently the Resource Room

Manager for International School Suva Primary. He; s got a certificate in Early childhood Education and currently pursuing his Diploma in Early childhood

Education.

Laisani Taleviti

Teacher Assistant / Resource Room Manager

Laisani has a certificate in early childhood and has been at ISS since 2010. Before moving to the re-

source room as an assistant, she was an early child-hood assistant in the Green Cottage.

Individual Student

Assistants

Fariah Ali

Individual Student Assistant Fariah joined ISS in 2013 with a Certificate in Early

Childhood Education and Certificate in Advance Culi-nary Skills. She is currently pursuing Diploma in

Early Childhood Education.

Middle

School

Teachers

Ryan Ludher

Mathematics / Science Teacher Ryan has a Bachelor of Education from Queensland University of Technology in Australia. He has been

teaching Primary and Middle School since 2002. Currently, he is pastoral teacher for year 6

student.

Renee Broughton

Year 6 Teacher Renee has been a teacher since 2014 after completing a

Bachelor of Primary Education and a Diploma of Children's Services in Australia. She has taught in

Sydney, Australia before coming to ISS in 2015. She is currently one of the pastoral teachers for Year 6 and is

teaching English and Social Science.

Amandine Neirinck

French Teacher

Amandine Neirinck has a BA in Human and Social Sciences from Toulouse-le-Mirail University and a

MEd in French teaching from the University of New Caledonia. She joined ISS in January 2014.

Tanya Vatubua

English/ESL Teacher

Tanya was awarded a Bachelor of Education, majoring in Literature and Language from the

University of the South Pacific, Suva in 2002. She was formerly teaching at the Fiji National University. In

addition to her teaching of English and Intensive English, she is also the High School Netball coach and

an Oceania Regional Zone Netball Umpire.

Michael Masonis

Social Science/English/Teachers Mr. Masonis is a California native who has taught at the Middle and Secondary levels for the past twelve years in many different subject matters

such as English, Science, Social Science, Art, Performing Arts, Yearbook, and Global

Perspectives. He joined the ISS team at the beginning of last year in 2013.

Sushita Sharma

Head of Mathematics / Year 8 Math Teacher

Sushita has a Bachelor of Science majoring in Mathematics and Physics. In addition, she holds a Post

Graduate Diploma in Mathematics and a Masters Degree in Education. She has been teaching IB Diploma

Programme Math SL/HL levels at ISS since 2001. Currently, she is pastoral teacher for year 12

student.

Meeta Khatri

ICT Teacher/Admin Meeta has Bachelor’s degree in Computing Science and Information Technology. She joined ISS in 2009 as an ICT teacher and ICT administrator. She is also the Accredited Test Centre Manager for ICDL and

coordinates the program locally through ICDL Asia.

Rosi Uluiviti

Curriculum Coordinator

After 10 years of service in the local schools in Fiji, Rosi decided to return to the International Education scene in 2000 where she introduced and set up the IB Primary Years Programme at International School Nadi as the Head of Primary and PYP coordinator. In 2007 she decided to take on a new challenge abroad joining International School Moshi Tanzania as the

PYP coordinator. On her return to Fiji, mid-year 2010, she joined ISS bringing with her years of ex-perience as an IB Educator, adminstrator and PYP

workshop leader in the IB Asia Pacific region.

Dan Shao

Chinese Teacher

Dan qualified as a teacher in 2009 and has taught

in China for 15 years. During this time she was teaching Chinese and mathematics. Dan was awarded a Bachelor of Law from the Liaoning

University of China in 2010. She taught at Yat Sen school in Suva before coming to ISS.

Shivana Gowin

Social Science Teacher

Shivana has a Bachelor of Arts majoring in History/Politics and English Language/ Literature. In addition,

she holds a Diploma in Community Services Work and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. She has been

teaching Diploma Community Services Work and Certificate IV Youth Work at the Australia Pacific

Technical College for the past 3 years and she has taught English at secondary school level in the past. Currently, she is pastoral teacher for year 802 students, relieving

Tanya Vatubua.

Tessa Eastgate

Art/Drama Teacher I earned my Bachelor of Philosophy, Major in

Philosophy, in 2000. I have experience in a number of areas in both Primary and Secondary education

in the Philippines and in Fiji. I joined ISS in 2014 after having taught at FNU and International School

Nadi. I am currently one of the Year 7 pastoral teachers.

Fesaitu Mario

PE Teacher Graduated from Fiji Collage of Advanced

Education in 2003 with a Bachelor of Education and was first posted to Marist Brothers’ High School where he spent 7 years before joining

International in 2010. A hardened sports fanatic, Fesaitu enjoys working with athletes,

sports teams and sporting federations building sports in any way he can. He is a qualified Track

& Field coach, Rugby, Basketball, Triathlon, Hockey, Strength & Conditioning Coach. Fesaitu currently teaches Physical Education, Outdoor

Education and facilitates the CAS & DOE program at ISS. He also coaches the school Track & Field, Basketball, Mens’ Netball and Triathlon

teams.

Joseph Hedditch

PE Teacher Joe has a Bachelor Degree in Human

Movement and a Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education both attained at Victoria University Melbourne, Australia. He has been

teaching PE for 5 years and has also worked for School Sport Victoria co-ordinating Region wide sporting events associated with primary school sport. His two favourite sports are surfing and

AFL.

Fenella David

PSE Teacher/ Counselor Fenella David joined the school in October of

2011. She graduated from Corpus Christi Teachers’ College in 1981 and has taught and

offered counselling services in a number of local schools before joining ISS. She obtained

her BA in Applied Psychology from the University of the South Pacific in 2011 and is

currently the school consellor.

Nemani Dianimoto

Mathematics Teacher I have been teaching for 15 years. I have a BSc (Mathematics and Physics) and Post Graduate

Diploma in General Manager, a Post Graduate Certificate in Human Resource

Management and an MBA. For the past two years I have been involved in writing

Mathematics and Physics curriculum for Fiji schools in the Curriculum Development unit of

the Fiji Ministry of Education.

Selaima Veisamasama

Science / Mathematics Teacher

Selaima qualified as a teacher in1977 and has had 37years of experience as a

Biology, Chemistry and Science teacher in various local schools. She joined ISS in 2013

teaching science from years 6 to year 10 and Mathematics in Middle School. She was

awarded a Diploma in Education from the University of the South Pacific in 1977,and then

a Bachelor of Science in 1996. She taught at Marist Brothers High School before joining ISS.

A Millar

Middle School Teacher

Social Science teacher and member of the

Middle School Coordinating team. BA La Trobe

University (Legal and Sociology). Dip Ed Mel-

bourne University. International Teacher Ex-

change to Bristol in UK. Prior to moving to Fiji,

worked as a Middle Years Educator (consultant)

and Coach for 5 years.

Regina Mastapha

Learning Support Teacher

Regina qualified as a middle school teacher in

1981. During this time she has taught a vari-

ety of subjects and in multi cultural schools.

In 1991 she graduated from Victoria Univer-

sity in New Zealand with a Diploma in Teach-

ing English As A Second Language. From 1996

to 2005 she taught on the island of Nauru for

9 years. In 2006 she started here at Interna-

tional as a Learning Support Teacher and ESL

teacher the year after that. She has also

taught Social Science and Maths.

Dona Baledravu

Teacher Assistant Has a Level 1 Coaching Certificate in Rugby

League Level 1 Coaching Certificate in Hockey

Is working on an ACTSA certificate in “learn-to- Swim”

He has represented Fiji in Hockey in 1994 and 1995 on the New Zealand Tour. Is married with two young boys.

High

School

Teachers

Milika Waqainabete

Head of Humanities / Technology

Milika Waqainabete has a Bachelor of Arts and Graduate Certificate in Education, Post-graduate

certificate in History / Politics and a Masters of Arts in Politics and International Affairs. She has taught in

Brisbane and locally at Lelean Memorial School before joining ISS in 1991.

In addition to her role as HOD Milika has coordinated Model UN, and held positions as Year Coordinator

and has also served on the Staff Association.

Alex Karountzos

Head of Arts / Learning Support/ IB Coordinator

Alexandra Karountzos has been a teacher since 1989, after completing a Bachelor of Arts and Post

Graduate Diploma of Education. She taught in Melbourne Australia until 2005 and came to teach at ISS in 2006. During her time in Fiji she has held positions of Year level coordinator, Head of Arts

and Head of Learning Support.

Linda Rushon

Head of English

Linda has an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in English, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, and a Bachelor of

Education Degree with qualifications for Intermediate and Senior Levels. In addition, she holds Special Education qualifications - Parts 1 and 2. She taught in Ontario,

Canada until January 2011, where she taught IB Diploma Programme World Literature since 2004.

Meeta Khatri

ICT Teacher/Admin Meeta has Bachelor’s degree in Computing

Science and Information Technology. She joined ISS in 2009 as an ICT teacher and ICT

administrator. She is also the Accredited Test Centre Manager for ICDL and coordinates the

program locally through ICDL Asia.

Sereana Baleilevuka

Business Studies Teacher

Completed my Diploma in Education and Bachelors of Arts degree in Geography from the University of

the South Pacific; MBA from the Central Queensland University, will complete Postgraduate Diploma in

Diplomacy and International Relations in 2014. Have been teaching at ISS since 1993.During this time I was

a Pastoral Teacher, Year Level Coordinator and my area was mainly in the Humanities Department

where I taught Geography, Social Science and Busi-ness Studies at both Middle and High School.

Kate Reimann

Visual Art Teacher Bachelors Degree in Visual Arts from the University

of Southern Queensland. Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education, Charles

Darwin University. 10 years teaching experience, Australia, United

Kingdom and Fiji. Year 12 Year Coordinator

Neelam Raj

English Teacher

Neelam has a Bachelors Degree in Education (Secondary) majoring in Literature and Language and

a Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language. She taught English and Business

Communication at DAV College, The Fiji National University, The University of the South Pacific and the

Central Queensland University (Fiji Campus) before joining ISS in 2011.

Maria Dunbar

Learning Support Teacher Maria Dunbar has a Masters of Education from Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. She has spent the last 4 years teaching in Beijing,

China, and has recently joined ISS as a ESL and Learning Support teacher.

Henry Murphy

Business & Accounting Teacher

Henry has a Bachelor of Arts Degree majoring in Economics/Management and Public

Administration. He teaches IGCSE Business Studies and IB Diploma Programme Economics/ Business Management SL/HL. Henry joined ISS in 2013 and he is the Pastoral teacher for Year

1001.

Carol Yao

Music Teacher Carol holds a Bachelor of music in Piano from

China Conservatory of Music. She taught Chinese for two years in International Primary school

before joining the Secondary school as a music teacher in 2010 and has been teaching ACT and IB Diploma music since. She is also the current year

12 pastoral teacher.

David Bennet English Teacher

David has degrees in English Literature and English Educa-tion. He has previously taught in the UK, Japan, Pakistan

and Jamaica

Fesaitu Mario

PE Teacher

Graduated from FCAE in 2003 with a Bachelor of Education and was first posted to MBHS where he spent 7 years before joining International in 2010. A hardened sports fanatic, Fesaitu enjoys

working with athletes, sports teams and sporting federations building sports in any way he can. He is a qualified Track & Field

coach, Rugby, Basketball, Triathlon, Hockey, Strength & Condition-ing Coach. Fesaitu currently teaches Physical Education, Out-door Education and facilitates the CAS & DOE program at ISS. He also coaches the school Track & Field, Basketball, Mens’ Netball

and Triathlon teams.

Silina Bale

Head of Languages Silina taught at the Alliance Française de Suva for seven years before joining the ISS team in 2008.

Apart from teaching French, she has had coordinator roles as Interpreting and Translation coordinator at the Alliance Française de Suva, Year Level Coordina-

tor, IGCSE coordinator and IB coordinator. Silina holds a Post Graduate Diploma in French. This has enabled Silina to become a DELF examiner in 2007 and more recently an examiner with the South Pa-

cific Board of Education.

Kris Stice

Head of Science After graduating from ISS as Head Student

almost 20 years ago, Mr. Stice went on to com-plete his tertiary studies at UC Santa Barbara in California. There he took his first teaching job

at a Native American public school before moving into a private school setting. Mr. Stice

rejoined the ISS family in 2010 and currently teaches senior sciences, serves as Head of

Science and sits on the School Council.

Sushita Sharma

Head of Mathematics

Sushita has a Bachelor of Science majoring in Mathematics and Physics. In addition, she holds a

Post Graduate Diploma in Mathematics and a Masters Degree in Education. She has been teaching

IB Diploma Programme Math SL/HL levels at ISS since 2001. Currently, she is pastoral teacher for

year 12 student.

Jennifer Liew

Head of Physical Education & Sports Studies

Born, bred and educated in the Cook Islands. Trained at Dunedin Teach-ers College in Otago, New Zealand. Taught in ISS since 1989. Qualified as:

Athletics Coach (IAAF Level 1), Volleyball (Oceania Level 1) Swimming (ACSTA Bronze). Have had experience in Coaching and Refereeing Na-tional level Netball (U19 1998, assistant National Coach 1997 to 1999.)Triathlon (Oceania level 1 and Oceania Official). In Fiji schools sports, is involved in the organisation and development of Schools swimming and

Primary Schools athletics. Head Coach of the Babale Swim Club.

Amandine Neirinck

French Teacher

Amandine Neirinck has a BA in Human and Social Sciences from Toulouse-le-Mirail University and a

MEd in French teaching from the University of New Caledonia. She joined ISS in January 2014.

Apisalome Damuyawa

Science Teacher / IGCSE Coordinator Api taught at Lelean Memorial School before

joining ISS. He has thirteen years teaching experience and qualified as a teacher from

the University of the South Pacific.

Jeshneel Chandra

Mathematics Teacher / ACT Coordinator Postgraduate Diploma in Mathematics from USP.

10 years of teaching Mathematics and Physics.

Fenella David

Accounting Teacher/ Counselor Fenella David joined the school in October of 2011. She gradu-

ated from Corpus Christi Teachers’ College in 1981 and has taught and offered counselling services in a number of local

schools before joining ISS. She obtained her BA in Applied Psy-chology from the University of the South Pacific in 2011 and is

currently the school consellor.

Cynthia Chen

Chinese Teacher

Cynthia was awarded a Bachelor Degree, majoring in English language and literature in 2003, meanwhile

she also obtained her teaching qualification for Inter-mediate and Senior Levels. She joined in ISS in 2008 and has taught Chinese IGCSE, Chinese A literature and Chinese B language course. She is also the Ac-

credited Center examiner for IGCSE Chinese speaking

exam.

Ashniel Bijay

Science Teacher Ashniel has a degree in Physics, Mathemat-ics and Education from the University of the South Pacific. He has seven years of teaching experience at the local schools and was also tutoring part-time at the College of Founda-tion Studies at the University of the South

Pacific.

Nemani Dianimoto

Mathematics Teacher

I have been teaching for 15 years. I have a BSc (Mathematics and Physics) and Post Graduate Diploma in General Manager, a Post Graduate Certificate in Hu-man Resource Management and an MBA. For the past two years I have been involved in writing Mathematics and Physics curriculum for Fiji schools in the Curriculum

Development unit of the Fiji Ministry of Education.

Week 5 Monday, February 16

Swimming for Reception & Year 1 (8.00-10.00)

Tuesday, February 17 Swimming for Reception & Year 1 (8.00-10.00)

Y12 Biology field trip

Wednesday, February 18 Swimming for Reception & Year 1 (8.00-10.00)

Thursday, February 19 Swimming for Reception & Year 1 (8.00-10.00)

Year 1 Family Night

Friday, February 20 ECH1 & ECH2 Family Luncheon (11.30 - 12.30) Whole School Induction Assembly - Year 12&5

Week 6 Monday, February 23

Swimming for Reception & Year 1 (8.00-10.00) Sec Inter-house Athletics Competition

Tuesday, February 24 Swimming for Reception & Year 1 (8.00-10.00)

Wednesday, February 25

Reception Afternoon Tea and Family Games (4.00 - 6.00) Swimming for Reception & Year 1 (8.00-10.00)

Thursday, February 26 Swimming for Reception & Year 1 (8.00-10.00)

Friday, February 27

Primary Press Year 5 Badges Presentation - Primary Assembly (8.15 - 9.00)

Secondary student leaders' induction YC update

Week 7 Monday, March 2

ISS GO GREEN DAY Swimming for Year 4 & 5 (8.00 - 10.00)

Tuesday, March 3

Swimming for Year 4 & 5 (8.00 - 10.00)

Wednesday, March 4 Swimming for Year 4 & 5 (8.00 - 10.00)

Y11/12 OEd Field Trip

Thursday, March 5 Swimming for Year 4 & 5 (8.00 - 10.00)

Careers Expo

Friday, March 6 Primary Assembly - Year 2 (8.15 - 9.00)

Year 3 Tourism Excursion

Week 8 Monday, March 9

Swimming for Year 4 & 5 (8.00 - 10.00)

Tuesday, March 10 Swimming for Year 4 & 5 (8.00 - 10.00)

Wednesday, March 11

Swimming for Year 4 & 5 (8.00 - 10.00)

Thursday, March 12 Swimming for Year 4 & 5 (8.00 - 10.00)

Friday, March 13

Primary Assembly (8.15 - 8.45) TALANOA

Upcoming Events (Week 5 - Week 8)