A Message from the Head of Secondary
Dear Greengates community,
As we move further into the academic year, it has been incredibly rewarding to see so many of our students engaging thoughtfully with their futures and taking important steps towards their aspirations beyond Greengates. Across both the IGCSE and IB programmes, there has been a real sense of purpose and ambition, with students embracing the opportunities available to them and demonstrating the resilience, curiosity and determination that we value so highly as a school community.
A particular highlight in recent weeks was our College Fair, hosted by the College Counselling Office. The event provided students and families with the opportunity to meet representatives from some of the leading universities across Mexico and around the world. It was wonderful to see students taking full advantage of these conversations, asking insightful questions, and beginning to explore the many pathways available to them after leaving Greengates.
Since the fair, I have been meeting individually with all Year 12 students to discuss their academic attainment, CAT4 profiles, and future aspirations. These conversations have been both inspiring and insightful, reinforcing the importance of helping every student identify their strengths, understand their potential and make informed decisions about their next steps.
Alongside this work, our IB and CAS teams have been working tirelessly with students across the Diploma Programme. Year 12 students have begun developing their CAS projects, while Year 13 students continue to receive extensive support with university and college applications. It is an exciting time for our oldest students as they increasingly focus on life beyond Greengates and prepare for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
Career and university guidance is also an important focus lower down the school. Through Compass Course lessons, students in Years 8 and 9 have been exploring the World of Work and learning about future career pathways. These lessons, designed around the Gatsby Benchmarks, a globally recognised framework for careers education, encourage students to think critically about their interests, skills and future ambitions. Students are also making use of the Unifrog platform, which provides valuable resources to help guide their decision-making and broaden their understanding of the opportunities available to them. We firmly believe that this support is invaluable in helping students develop a clearer sense of who they wish to become and the paths they may choose to follow in life.
Social media
I would also like to take this opportunity to ask for your continued support in addressing an issue that is becoming increasingly significant for schools around the world: the misuse of social media and messaging platforms. Whilst applications such as Instagram, Snapchat, WhatsApp and others provide valuable opportunities for social connection, we have seen an increase in their use for spreading rumours, gossip and other behaviours that can be harmful to individuals and to our wider community.
In recent weeks, the school has worked closely with students and families to identify and remove harmful social media accounts, group chats and other malicious uses of these platforms. We will continue to take a proactive approach through our pastoral programme, educational workshops, guest speakers and dedicated lessons that help students better understand the risks and responsibilities associated with online behaviour. Where appropriate, we will also use the school’s Behaviour Policy to address actions that take place online when they have a negative impact on members of our community or contravene our shared expectations.
We know that schools cannot address these challenges alone and that strong partnerships with families are essential. We therefore ask that you continue to speak openly with your children about the responsible use of social media and messaging platforms. Please encourage them to think carefully before posting, sharing or commenting online, and remind them to speak to their Head of Year or another trusted adult if they see or hear anything that concerns them. Together, we can help ensure that all Greengates students feel safe, supported and respected, both in school and online.
Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support, partnership, and trust. By working together, we can continue to provide the very best educational experience for our students while nurturing a community built on respect, responsibility and care for one another.
Secondary spotlight – School library
October is here and our Y8 students are learning about Gothic literature in their English class. Due to this, the library has prepared a special collection for them to borrow which includes classic titles such as Frankenstein and Dracula, among others.
Characteristics of Gothic literature include gloomy settings such as dilapidated castles, crumbling manors, abandoned houses, old buildings, or even dark forests. Some of the events in the story happen at night, in the dark or during torrential rain, creating suspense and mystery. Also, paranormal, supernatural, or unexplained events might appear throughout the story. Nightmares, hidden secrets, superstition, curses, or omens create emotional distress in the characters. Characters are complex and sometimes misunderstood, driven by guilt, obsession, or madness. Usually, there is an anti-hero or villain in this type of story and sometimes romance is included, too.
On the other hand, our Y7 students are reading myths and legends. Myths are traditional stories used in the past to explain human existence, origins, beliefs, natural phenomena, and values of a cultural group. Usually, there is cause and effect. Myths include gods, supernatural beings or even personification of animals and forces of nature. Legends, however, are traditional narratives within a culture that give historical information. The main characters in legends have greater physical or moral qualities than most humans to engage in quests and adventures. In the library, we also have a variety of books on myths and legends from around the world for students to borrow and take home to read.
Happy reading to all!
Secondary academic
Being Digitally Wise at Greengates
As part of our Learning Compass in Years 7, 8 and 9, we encourage students to become confident, responsible and thoughtful digital citizens. Being Digitally Wise means using technology effectively, creatively and responsibly to enhance learning.
In practice, students demonstrate this by questioning the reliability of online sources, acknowledging the use of artificial intelligence, protecting their personal information and communicating respectfully online. They are encouraged to use digital tools to research, collaborate and solve problems, while recognising when technology supports their learning and when independent thinking is more appropriate. Our aim is to prepare students to navigate an increasingly digital world with confidence and good judgement.
Ian Howarth
Deputy Head Curriculum
ACADEMIC UPDATE
Welcome back to a new school year! I hope all of our students and families have had an enjoyable summer and are looking forward to the year ahead.
Next week, students in Years 8, 10 and 12 will be completing their CAT4 assessments. These assessments help us learn more about each student’s strengths in verbal, numerical, non-verbal and spatial reasoning, giving teachers valuable information to support learning and academic progress throughout the year.
There is no need for students to revise or prepare for CAT4. Details of the individual testing days have been communicated separately to families. We simply ask that students bring their school devices fully charged and ready to use on the day of their assessment.
PASTORAL UPDATE
Secondary Pastoral Update
As we reach the end of the academic year, it has been a busy and positive fortnight across Secondary, with students involved in reflection, transition, leadership, service and celebration.
PSHE, PSHCE and Student Reflection
Year 8 took part in a whole-year-group PSHE session led by Ms. Dale and Ms. Nic, focusing on discriminatory language and digital footprints. The session encouraged students to think carefully about the impact of their words, both online and offline, and to reflect on the importance of respectful communication within our school community.
Students in Years 10 and 12 also came together for a PSHCE End of Year Exam Reflection session with Mr. Díaz and Mr. Chappell. This included time to reflect on recent exam performance, consider targets for improvement, and receive helpful college updates and advice as they look ahead to the next stage of their academic journey.
Across Key Stage 3, PSHE sessions have also focused on reflecting on End of Year exams and setting meaningful targets for improvement. This has provided students with an opportunity to think not only about outcomes, but also about the habits, routines and approaches that will help them continue to make progress next year.
All Secondary students have also been sent a Student Pastoral Survey this week. Student voice and feedback are very important to us, and we are keen to hear directly from students about their experiences so that we can continue to develop and strengthen our pastoral provision.
Transition and Looking Ahead
We were delighted to welcome Year 6 students into Secondary for a very successful Year 6 Experience Day as part of their transition programme. Students had the opportunity to experience life in Secondary, meet key staff, and begin to familiarise themselves with the routines and expectations of the next stage of their school journey.
As part of our wider transition work, next year’s Heads of Year have also been joining assemblies to support a positive pastoral handover and help students feel prepared for the year ahead. This has been a valuable opportunity for students to begin building relationships with the staff who will support them next year.
Year 7 also enjoyed a very successful camp, which was a lovely opportunity for students to spend time together outside the classroom, build confidence, strengthen friendships and celebrate the end of their first year in Secondary.
Student Leadership, Service and Community
We are delighted to share that Zoe Muiño in Year 12 has been announced as the new Student Council President. We look forward to seeing the positive contribution she will make in this role next year.
This week, we also held a pizza party for our Peer Mentor students to thank them for their hard work this year and to begin preparing them to support new families during Orientation Day in August. Their role in helping younger and new students feel welcomed and supported is a very important part of our pastoral community.
A huge well done also goes to the Year 12 boys who led a very successful International Bake Sale, raising over $7,000 pesos for a school in Kenya. This was a fantastic example of student initiative, teamwork and service.
It has also been lovely to see Secondary students supporting the wider school community. One of our Year 11 students continues to volunteer successfully in Primary, and a number of students from Years 9–11 have been supporting Primary staff as they prepare for this week’s Wizard of Oz production.
Celebrating the Year
Heads of Year have led celebration assemblies this fortnight, focusing on the many achievements from across the year. These assemblies have recognised students’ academic progress, personal development, contribution to the school community, resilience, leadership and effort. It has been a wonderful way to pause and celebrate everything our students have achieved throughout the year.
Notices for Parents and Families
Please be reminded that lockers must be cleared out by Monday 22nd June, ready for next year. Any items left behind after this date will be moved to Lost and Found. Lockers should be left clean, empty, and with nothing stuck inside.
We have also redrafted the Dress Code expectations for students in Years 10–13 for next academic year. We are planning to share this with parents so that families have the summer to familiarise themselves with the expectations before the start of the new term.
Finally, as this is the last pastoral newsletter update of the academic year, I would like to thank students, parents and staff for their support throughout the year. It has been a year full of growth, challenge, achievement and community, and we look forward to continuing to build on this next academic year!
Ms. Dale
Deputy Head Pastoral
Science Week Talks – We need you!
We are organising science week again this year for 14th – 21st October and, as part of that, we are arranging a series of talks for students from scientists. We would love to include some talks by parents who work in science or a science related industry to give the students an idea of the opportunities available for them if they study science. We are also looking for talks from ex-students, so please let us know if you have an older child who is an ex-student and would be interested. If you are interested, please contact Rose Ardell (rose.ardell@greengates.edu.mx).
Key stage 3
Small Words, Big Difference
As part of our focus on Mental Health Week, KS3 students are exploring how the words we choose can make a difference to someone’s wellbeing. Through their PSHE lessons, they are considering what it means to listen, show understanding and support someone who may be finding things difficult.
A key message is that everyone has mental health, and everyone’s experiences are different. We cannot always tell how someone is feeling simply by how they appear at school. Taking time to check in, listen without judging and respond thoughtfully can help someone feel more comfortable asking for support.
Students are reflecting on everyday responses such as “Just calm down” or “Don’t worry about it”, and considering why these might leave someone feeling misunderstood. They are exploring more supportive alternatives, including “I’m here to listen”, “Would you like to talk?” and “How can I help?”
Through discussion and paired activities, students are also challenging misconceptions about mental health and identifying trusted adults they can approach at school. We are reminding them that supporting a friend does not mean having all the answers; sometimes, the most helpful step is encouraging them to speak to an adult they trust.
Families can continue this conversation at home by asking: “What could you say to a friend who is having a difficult day?”. A small conversation can help reinforce the understanding and kindness we want students to carry into their everyday interactions.
At Greengates, we want every student to feel heard, valued and supported. Small words, chosen with care, can make a big difference.
Key stage 4/ IGCSE
The start of the school year has been extremely positive, and we are delighted with the excellent effort, commitment, and behaviour shown by our Y10 and Y11 students. Across the school, classrooms have been focused, lessons have started with purpose, and students have demonstrated a mature and responsible approach to their learning. These strong habits create the foundation for success and reflect the high standards we strive for as a learning community.
As students progress through their IGCSE courses, it is important that they take full advantage of the outstanding resources available to them. Microsoft Teams should be checked regularly for lesson materials, assignments, feedback, and key communications from teachers. Kognity offers valuable explanations, interactive activities, and revision opportunities that can strengthen understanding and support independent learning.
Equally important are the learner guides and subject syllabuses made available by Cambridge to our students. These documents provide a clear roadmap of the knowledge, skills, and assessment objectives required for success. Students who regularly refer to them are better able to track their progress, identify areas for improvement, and focus their revision effectively.
The students who achieve the best outcomes are often those who consistently engage with these resources, ask questions when they need support, and take ownership of their learning. If our students maintain the excellent attitude and work ethic they have shown so far, we are confident they will continue to grow in confidence, develop as independent learners, and achieve their full potential in their IGCSE examinations. Every lesson, task, and revision session is an opportunity to move one step closer to success.
Key stage 5/ IB PROGRAMME
It was fantastic to see 65 Year 12 students on campus on Saturday, working together to develop an impressive 17 CAS projects for the year ahead.
The atmosphere throughout the day was energetic, purposeful and inspiring. Students demonstrated outstanding collaboration, creativity and commitment as they planned initiatives designed to make a positive impact both within and beyond our school community.
Several of the projects build upon established partnerships that Greengates has developed with local organisations over a number of years, strengthening relationships and extending the impact of previous work. Equally exciting was the number of entirely new initiatives being proposed, reflecting the ingenuity, ambition and entrepreneurial spirit of our students.
The day, supported by .jes and coordinated by Dr Oscar Avila as part of the CAS programme, provided students with valuable tools and frameworks to help turn ideas into meaningful action. By the end of the event, plans were taking shape, teams were forming strong working relationships and the enthusiasm for the year ahead was evident throughout the Dome.
It was both refreshing and rewarding to witness such high levels of engagement on a Saturday morning. Most importantly, students left with a clear sense of purpose and a determination to transform their ideas into impactful projects. Ambition is high, and we look forward to seeing these initiatives develop over the coming months.
Notes from sections of the school
Year 7
As we reach the end of the academic year, it is hard to believe how quickly the year has passed. It has been a privilege to witness the beginning of our students’ journey through Secondary School and to see the progress they have made since arriving in Year 7. They joined us as a group of excited, and at times understandably nervous, students, but they now finish the year as a much more confident, independent and mature cohort. Their growth over the past ten months has been remarkable, and they should all be very proud of what they have achieved.
One of the most pleasing aspects of the year has been the positive culture that students have helped create. Year 7 have received the fewest negative behaviour points of any year group in the Secondary School, which is a testament to their attitude towards learning and the way they conduct themselves around the campus. They have approached challenges with maturity, treated one another with kindness and respect, and represented the school extremely well throughout the year.
Beyond the classroom, Year 7 have embraced school life with enthusiasm. Students have participated in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, performing arts productions, clubs and competitions. It has been wonderful to see so many students pursuing their interests, developing new skills and contributing positively to the wider school community. Their willingness to get involved has been one of the defining features of the year group.
I was also particularly impressed by the attitude students showed in the lead-up to their end-of-year examinations. Students approached the examination period with maturity and determination, attending revision sessions, seeking support when needed and demonstrating a genuine desire to do their best. Regardless of individual results, they should be proud of the effort and commitment they showed throughout the process.
Of course, one of the highlights of the year was our recent camp at Rancho Diego. The camp provided students with the opportunity to challenge themselves, strengthen friendships and create lasting memories. From outdoor activities and team challenges to campfires and the World Cup celebrations, students embraced every aspect of the experience with enthusiasm. They represented both themselves and Greengates exceptionally well, and it was a pleasure to see them supporting one another throughout the week. The camp was a fitting way to celebrate everything they have achieved during their first year of Secondary School.
On a personal note, I would like to share that I will be leaving Greengates at the end of this academic year as I prepare to move to Tokyo. While I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead, I will be sad to say goodbye to this Year 7 cohort. It has been a genuine privilege to get to know them over the course of the year, both as students and as young people. They are a group that I will remember very fondly, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have shared this important first year of Secondary School with them. I would like to thank students and parents alike for their support throughout the year, and I wish the entire year group every success as they continue their journey into Year 8 and beyond.
Mr. Magnus Jackson
Head of Year 7
Year 8
Year 8 Creativity Showcase Celebrates Student Agency
This week, Year 8 students had the opportunity to showcase their creativity and personal passions as part of the final stage of the Greengates Award during a special assembly. The event highlighted the importance of student agency – giving students ownership of their learning, encouraging them to pursue their interests, and providing a platform to share their achievements with others.
The Creativity strand is one of the three pillars of the Greengates Award, alongside Activity and Service. Throughout the year, students have challenged themselves to try new experiences, contribute to their community, and develop their own talents and interests. The award aims to recognise the whole child, celebrating achievements both inside and outside the classroom.
A number of students volunteered to present projects that demonstrated their creativity and dedication:
- Noah shared some of his impressive artwork, showcasing both his artistic skill and commitment to developing his talent.
- Norbert presented a selection of LEGO creations, demonstrating creativity, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
- Tiago showcased an original song and music video that he had created, highlighting his passion for music and digital media.
- Emma shared a group project involving the creation and marketing of homemade slime, demonstrating teamwork, entrepreneurship, and creativity.
- Armando presented pieces of furniture that he had built with his dad, showing craftsmanship, patience, and practical design skills.
The assembly was a wonderful reminder of the diverse talents within our Year 8 community. It was fantastic to see students confidently sharing projects they are passionate about and inspiring their peers to pursue their own interests.
Congratulations to all of the students who presented. Their willingness to share their work embodied the spirit of the Greengates Award and demonstrated how creativity can take many different forms.
Nicola Burnett
Head of Year 8
Year 9
Dear Year 9 Students and Parents,
As we reach the end of Year 9, it is incredible to reflect on everything our students have achieved over the past year. From academic successes and enrichment opportunities to performances, charitable initiatives and leadership opportunities, our Year 9 students have continued to demonstrate resilience, maturity and a willingness to get involved in school life. They have represented the year group with pride and have grown significantly both as learners and as young people.
In this newsletter, I would like to celebrate some of the achievements of the past few weeks and share how students are preparing for the exciting transition to Key Stage 4.
End of year exams:
As we reach the end of another academic year, I would like to begin by congratulating all Year 9 students on the way they approached their end-of-year examinations. For some students, this was their first experience of a more formal examination period, and I was pleased to see the seriousness and maturity with which they approached it. Students arrived prepared, equipped with the necessary materials, and conducted themselves exceptionally well throughout the examination period. I hope they recognise that success is not only measured by the final grade achieved, but also by the effort, preparation and resilience shown throughout the process.
Looking ahead to Key Stage 4:
This week, Year 9 students attended a transition assembly co-led by me and Mr Cahill, next year’s Head of Year. During the assembly, we reflected on the journey students have taken throughout Key Stage 3 and looked ahead to the exciting opportunities and challenges that await them in Key Stage 4. We discussed expectations for the start of the new academic year, the increased independence that will be required, and the importance of maintaining the positive habits that will help them succeed both academically and personally. It was a valuable opportunity to begin preparing students for this next stage of their educational journey, and I know they will rise to the challenge.
A final Thank You:
As this is my final newsletter as Head of Year 9 at Greengates, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all parents and families for the support, trust and kindness you have shown over the past years. Working alongside you to support your children has been both a privilege and a pleasure. Together, we have celebrated successes, overcome challenges and watched students grow into the thoughtful, capable and resilient young people they are today.
I am incredibly proud of everything this year group has achieved and have every confidence that they will continue to flourish as they move into Key Stage 4. I would like to wish all students and their families a restful summer break and every success and happiness for the future. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your children’s journey.
With my very best wishes,
Ms Axelle Diot
Head of Year 9
Year 10
Year 4 had an amazing experience this week. As we have been learning all about the respiratory system, the secondary biology teachers kindly offered to demonstrate a lung dissection. We identified parts of the lungs and blew them up to simulate breathing. Thank you so much secondary teachers!
IGCSE
This week, Year 10 had their celebration assembly. We have added some additional awards to recognize the efforts of students across the year group.
The below students won the tutor awards, meaning that they were nominated by their form tutor for their consistent effort, hard work, and dedication over the course of the academic year for their ongoing hard work and commitment to learning, alongside demonstrating positive values in school.
- 10A: Danyi Y.
- 10B: Hannah L.
- 10C: Claire S.
- 10D: Fanny W.
- 10E: Julia M.
Additionally, Renata O. was awarded the Charter Values award for consistently embodying the Greengates Student Charter across the year. This award recognizes how Renata balances academic efforts and hard work with being a positive influence over her peers through her integrity and honesty.
In their assembly, students tried to guess who this was based on the below reason for the nomination:
This is awarded to the student who embodies the Greengates values. They are always very friendly and helpful with their peers, especially new students. This student makes Greengates a positive experience for those around them. They are hardworking academically and a fantastic athlete. They demonstrate their kindness, thoughtfulness, and maturity beyond the school walls, such as in Switzerland. For the finals, they had *folders* of revision for their subjects and have repeatedly proven themselves to be incredibly hard working. They are also a really positive influence on those close to them!
Finally, Andres Sarmiento De Castilla was awarded the Head of Year Award, the most prestigious award for his ongoing positivity across school. Andres was recognized by his teachers for his persistent friendliness around campus and being a role model to his peers. The below message was shared with students to guess who received the award and why:
This student was nominated by MULTIPLE of their teachers as the standout student of the year. They are *always* kind to others. Whilst I don’t teach them, they have made me feel very welcome in Greengates with their politeness; they speak to everyone and actively try to make people feel at ease. They get involved in opportunities available at Greengates, such as sports, and their teachers repeatedly tell me how much of a pleasure they are to teach! Going into Year 11, this is the sort of student who is a role model to their peers not only in their academic efforts, but also how they carry themselves and treat others.
Well done to these students in Year 10 — this is a great way to finish the year!
Daniel Citrine
IGCSE Coordinator
IB Programme
Celebrating a Year of CAS
This week, our Year 12 students came together for the annual CAS Celebration, marking the completion of their first year in the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) programme.
The event provided an opportunity for students to showcase the experiences, projects, and personal growth they have developed throughout the year. Three outstanding student-led projects shared their journeys and impact with their peers, demonstrating the power of student initiative and community engagement. Students also explored one another’s CAS portfolios, reflecting on the wide variety of experiences that have shaped their year.
The celebration concluded with a series of games and activities, recognising not only students’ achievements but also the strong sense of community that CAS helps foster.
This year’s CAS programme has been exceptional. Students have shown remarkable commitment, creativity, and leadership through service projects, fundraising initiatives, environmental action, community partnerships, clubs, sports, and artistic pursuits. From local social impact projects to international opportunities, our students have consistently demonstrated a willingness to step beyond their comfort zones and make a positive difference in the world around them.
We are incredibly proud of everything our Year 12 students have accomplished and look forward to seeing how their projects and leadership continue to develop in the year ahead.
David Grant
IB Coordinator