Tel: (+357) 26 82 17 00 Email: info@isop-ed.org
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Tel: (+357) 26 82 17 00 Email: info@isop-ed.org
Our school was happy to host an Erasmus + Mobility programme for students. A group of twelve Year 5 pupils from Romania visited us from School No 194 in Bucharest (8 girls and 4 boys) accompanied by two teachers. The students had the chance to participate in different lessons with ISOP students from Years 5 and 6, such as Mathematics, English, Greek, Art, History, and Music. They were also involved in the school’s Sports Day, joined the school’s field trip to the Science Fair in Nicosia, watched the school’s play and enjoyed other cultural activities during the week. We are sure that this was a pleasant opportunity for our pupils to interact and share their experiences, knowledge, and skills with the children we hosted. A warm thank you to the Management Team and all the Primary school staff involved.
The Greek Department organised a visit to CYENS, Centre of Excellence in Nicosia. Students of Years 10 to 12 and their teachers, Dr Marina Tymviou, the Head of Greek Department Mr Andreas Kafkaris and the Head of History Department Ms Emilia Pieroua, went on a guided tour of the CYENS premises. They learned about immersive technologies such as computer graphics, character animation, 3D motion analysis and virtual reality, together with their applications in cultural heritage preservation. For example, they virtually visited the Agios Neofytos Monastery and Engleistra (place of Seclusion) in Paphos and the Ledra Palace Hotel —the once large and glamorous hotel of Nicosia— now in the Buffer Zone. This was an amazing trip, thoroughly enjoyed by all.
The International School of Paphos presented the play “Girls Like That” last Sunday, a play by Evan Placey, inspired by a true story based on school bullying, in the context of the 34th Pancyprian School Theatre Games.
The charismatic, versatile drama teacher, Ms Stefanie Mavrokordatou through a seemingly ‘simple’ but at the same time complex directing perspective, as well as the four student-actresses, with their deeply emotional performances, totally captivated the audience while conveying the important messages of the show. The almost empty, austere stage ensured the audience’s attention being constantly focused on the actresses themselves, on their faces, their expressions, their stature, their body language. And this was the purpose: the four girls, with their words, expressions and body, poignantly conveyed impactful emotions that turned into thoughts and reflections which resonated in the audience even after the end of the performance. Also noteworthy was the opening of the show with the song “Shattered Adolescence”, written especially for the show. (Performance: Neophyta Neofitou, Music: Dimitris Efstathiou, Lyrics: Eleana Charalambous) as well as the overall, carefully selected music direction.
Thank you for the ‘shockingly’ touching and emotional show you presented us with! A show worth watching- which all teenage students and adults would appreciate for its relevance.
Congratulations to all who were committed to a play of high standards!
Translation: Vangelis Kyriakou, Direction: Stephanie Mavrokordatou, Team Assistant: Elina Tsappi, Stage Scenery: Isop Art Department, Choreography: Stephanie Mavrokordatou, Stage Manager: Christiana Spyrou, Role play: Year 10 students (Rea Constantinou, Eleana Chrysanthou, Andriana Paphiti, Anastasia Nikolaou)
Sponsors: Aristo Developers, Parents Teachers Association
As an important component of their course, the students of Year 11 studying Biology IGCSE and of Year 13 studying A Level Biology, visited the Environmental Centre in Episkopi, Paphos this month to complete a project. They conducted an ecological study as part of their curriculum programme. The area visited is a Natura 2000 site, which is the largest coordinated network of protected areas in the world. It offers a haven to Europe’s most valuable and threatened species and habitats (more information here: https://ec.europa.eu/envir…/nature/natura2000/index_en.htm).
They watched a short documentary on the ecosystems of the river valley and were fascinated by the endemic species found in this region. They took a long walk down to the Ezousa River where they observed the different ecosystems of the valley. Our keen students took many pictures and conducted a small,but significant, study along the banks of the river. The students had a super day out, learning about the practical side of Biology whilst enjoying the outdoors, along the Ezousa River Valley. The outing was a great success as it was thoroughly appreciated by all after a long period of strict pandemic measures.
The International School of Paphos (ISOP) invites you to the play, ‘Girls Like That’, by Evan Placey performed by the school’s Greek Theatre Club, directed by the Drama Teacher, Mrs Stefanie Mavrokordatou and translated into Greek by Vangelis Kyriacou.
The play ‘Girls Like That’ undertakes a tremendously prominent and contemporary topic, which is highly relevant to teenagers today. Through a combination of humour and intense emotion, it highlights the impacts and the psychological harm that can be caused by the misuse of digital media by teenagers and usually by their own peers.
Although ISOP is an English-speaking school, it has been consistently promoting the Greek language and culture through various activities. This performance will be the fifth participation of ISOP in the Pancyprian School Theatre Games. With great success in the past, including the 3rd place last year, we are anticipating yet another meaningful performance.
A short synopsis of the play:
When a naked photograph of schoolgirl Scarlett goes viral, rumours spread across smartphones like wildfire and her reputation becomes toxic, threatening to shatter the fragile unity of the girls she has grown up with. But how long can Scarlett remain silent? Whilst the boy is applauded for his sexual conquest, the girl’s morality is shamed and ultimately, she is so humiliated that she is forced to leave the school. Her worst tormentors turn out to be the girls she has grown up with and who are jealous of her transition into womanhood.
‘Girls Like That’ is an urgent and explosive play that explores gender equality and the pressures on today’s digital generation.
It is a play that speaks the truth: the truth of teenage life!
Credits:
Translation: Vangelis Kyriakou
Direction: Stephanie Mavrokordatou
Team Assistant: Elina Tsappi
Stage Scenery: Isop Art Department
Music: Dimitris Efstathiou
Choreography: Stephanie Mavrokordatou
Stage Manager: Christiana Spyrou
Role play: Year 10 students
DATE & TIME: 26 March 2023, 20:00
VENUE: The International School of Paphos, Sports Hall
LANGUAGE: Greek
Free Entrance
INFORMATION: 26821700, marketing@isop-ed.org
Sponsors:
Aristo Developers
Parents and Teachers Association
The International School of Paphos students are once again ready to entertain their audience with the popular “Aesop’s Fables”.
In this humourous presentation, the cast enthusiastically adorn colourful animal, plants and human characters in order to educate the spectators.
Each story has a strong moral message at its core, encouraging us all to be better human beings.
Come and enjoy this fabulous presentation!
Wednesday, 5 April 2023, 18:30, Sports Hall
Directed by Michelle Nonyelu
All the proceeds from the play go to Aston Vision Orphanage, Magengo Orphanage & Day Care Centre, Tanzania
The International School of Paphos had the pleasure of hosting Mr Mustapha El-Habbal from the American University of Beirut-Mediterraneo at our school on Thursday 16th of February. Parents, students and staff who attended the event had the opportunity to be introduced to the American University of Beirut (AUB), being provided with information about its history, experience, educational strategy that is based on ‘Liberal Arts Education’, its accreditations and various rankings. Mr Mustapha highlighted that the American University of Beirut-Mediterraneo , which will be based in Paphos, is the first campus of AUB outside Lebanon, as part of their strategy to go global. He presented the different courses that will be offered, entry requirements, application procedures, tuitions fees and several financial aid and scholarship opportunities. It was a very informative afternoon and we are happy to welcome an educational institution of such high standards to our town
As every year, the Provincial School Games Organising Committee of Paphos hosts the Boys and Girls Basketball Provincial Tournament (for Gymnasium students). In the Preliminary Phase, our girls team played two games, against Polys Chrysochous and the Athletic Gymnasium of Agios Theodoros. We unfortunately lost both games. However, our team members played excellent games and their coaches are extremely proud of their efforts in these matches. We wish them good luck in the next events!
Six ISOP students participated in the18th Mediterranean Model United Nations (MEDIMUN) Conference on February 3rd and 4th, 2023, in Nicosia. During the conferences, students become delegates, as representatives of a UN Member State that has been allocated to them. After extensive research into their allocated country, delegates discuss, write and debate resolutions (documents detailing their suggestions and solutions to world issues). Directors, usually teachers, are responsible for training and leading their delegation of students. Our students, representing India and Liberia, had a unique experience. This opportunity allows for strengthening their writing and communication skills, while broadening their understanding of complex world issues and meeting other young people from across the Mediterranean.
Our students Himali Sharma, Year 12 and Luna Shihan Liu, Year 10 stated that “We would like to thank ISOP for presenting us with such a wonderful opportunity to be a part of MEDIMUN 2023. MEDIMUN helped us grow as people and voice our opinions , giving us a glimpse into brilliant minds from around the island. It’s honestly amusing to see so many different individuals with exceptional opinions. Special thanks to our teachers for giving us their time and support. We definitely are even more confident and passionate about world problems now. It was truly an eye-opening experience that has provided us with different perspectives to view the world around us.”
The PE Department of The International School of Paphos organised Friendly Sports Fixtures with other Paphos Primary Schools, last Thursday, 2nd February. This wonderful event was held on ISOP’s premises with its amazing facilities. All children had the opportunity to take part in football, handball, relays and basketball games, spending a fun, active day while establishing new friendships at the same time.
The International School of Paphos hosted the 2023 ‘Chinese Spring Festival Gala’ organised by the CCCA Cyprus – Chinese Commercial Association, on Saturday, 14th of January. His Excellency, the Ambassador of China in Cyprus, Mr Yantao Liu, and Mrs Yahui Hou attended the ceremony, as well as other local officials, including representatives of the Municipality of Paphos, Municipality of Peyia, Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth, Confucius Institute, Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry and more. The event was successful and well attended, with an exciting artistic programme that included traditional Chinese songs and dances, a selection of Greek songs and culminating in Cyprus traditional dances where all the guests were invited to participate.
The Ambassador before the beginning of the event asked for a short tour at the school’s premises. The Managing Director Mrs Aristi Andriotis, along with the Head of the School Dr Litsa Olympiou, the Head of Primary Mrs Elena Kotsovos, other members of ISOP staff and honoured guests showed part of our premises and presented our school.
We are looking forward to many other similar events where we can meet to appreciate each other’s cultures!
For the ninth consecutive year, Junior Achievement Cyprus hosted their Innovation Camp with great success, on Tuesday 13 December 2022. Of course, our ISOP students participated with great enthusiasm. This one-day event encouraged students to use their skills in enterprising and innovative ways, fostering their employability and entrepreneurial flair in the process. The participants included students of Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot backgrounds, aged between 15 and 18, from private high schools all over Cyprus. The participants had the opportunity to come together in groups of 3-4 and collaborate, culminating in their suggestions based on an innovation for a business challenge that was given on their arrival.
They were required to find the main aspects and parameters that they needed to consider, in order to create a fully sustainable fashion business and to design their business in such a manner as to ensure that all business activities are aligned with circular economy principles.
The International School of Paphos was represented by five Year 12 Students (Himali Sharma, Alexander Yianni, Mia Waite, Elise Matson, Ki Chun To) accompanied by the Business and Economics Head of Subject, Mr Antonis Yiannouros. Elise Matson was a member of the winning team Himali Sharma was part of the team that attained third place. Also, Ki Chun To was a member of one of the top six teams.
The award for the winning team was presented by Dr. Zennia D. Paganini, Public Affairs Officer of the US Embassy. The team will be offered an educational experience that will further develop their entrepreneurial and circular economy skills.
The awards for the 2nd and 3rd place were awarded by ECOMMBX and the US Embassy Respectively.
Congratulations to everyone on their amazing accomplishments!
The enthusiastic activity of the ISOP Philanthropic Club, in the altruistic spirit of the season, have given hearty donations for various worthy causes: 270 euros to the Red Cross in food vouchers; loads of food, clothing and toys to the Paphos Volunteer Coordinative Council, which reaches out to local families in need. We extend a warm thank you to one of our ISOP families, represented by Zaurak Trading Ltd, who were very generous in donating food this year. A parcel of pet food will also be donated to the Tala Cat Sanctuary.. We have also raised funds for an orphanage in Tanzania which will be delivered in February. As every year, the receivers were most grateful for our much-needed donations. We are very grateful to those have opened their hearts this holiday season. We wish peace, happiness and warm family moments to all the members of our school community.
Our school had the pleasure of welcoming visitors – two representatives from the French Institute Cyprus- Mrs. Helene Françoise- Iosifides, Head of Campus France and Mrs. Martine Erotokritou, Head of Communication for a presentation about studies in France. The visit was fruitful and most enjoyable for everyone.
Our guests were delighted by the extraordinary potential of our school and we were intrigued by the professional presentation of Mrs. Françoise -Iosifides. Parents and students had the opportunity to receive information about studies in France, available courses, entry requirements, tuition fees, together with discovering that France can be an interesting destination.
The event was a success with favourable touches, which will certainly have beneficial, interesting outcomes!
The International School of Paphos (ISOP) proudly announces that ten students of the school received prestigious awards from Cambridge Assessment International Education for their outstanding performance in the May/June 2022 Cambridge Examination Session.
The Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards programme celebrates the success of learners taking Cambridge examinations in over 40 countries around the world. Cambridge places learners at the centre of their international education programmes and provides qualifications which are inspired by the best in educational thinking.
Learners at ISOP received the following Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards:
Marcella Marin – Top in Cyprus – Cambridge IGCSE – Biology
Anna Andreevna Stopyra – Top in Cyprus – Cambridge IGCSE – Foreign Language French
Marcella Marin – Top in Cyprus – Cambridge IGCSE – Geography
D. N. – Top in Cyprus – Cambridge IGCSE – Physics
Chen He – Top in Cyprus – Cambridge International AS Level – Business
Beatrice Marro – Top in Cyprus – Cambridge International AS Level – Information Technology
Jessica Elin Vikersjö – Best across seven subjects in Cyprus – Cambridge IGCSE – First place in Cyprus
Jessica Elin Vikersjö – High Achievement – Cambridge IGCSE – Economics
Chen He – High Achievement – Cambridge International AS Level – Economics
Arian Adeli Koodehi – High Achievement – Cambridge International A Level – Business
An awards ceremony to recognise the outstanding achievements of our students took place on Wednesday 7th December 2022 in Nicosia. However, the management team and members of the teaching staff in a gathering in school, congratulated the students. The Managing Director Mrs Aristi Andriotis and the Head of the school, Dr Litsa Olympiou highlighted that these results and awards reflect the talent, dedication and commitment of both students and staff.
The Deputy Head of the school, Nikolas Artemis said: ‘Today we celebrate the achievements of our award-winning students, but also, we give due respect to our values and morals which these awardees and my colleagues exemplify – namely discipline, determination, team spirit, compassion and zeal for learning. These brilliant students exhibit such qualities that will not only help them in achieving their goals, but also bring the glory of success to our school.’.
Congratulations to all ISOP students and to their teachers!
The Year 8 and 9 students created posters in different languages, writing messages for their French friends, playing games and quizzes, as well as writing recipes in several languages. Year 8 students created a small booklet, called “Mon petit livre de recettes”. The students from Year 9 wrote messages that they will sent to their pen pals in France.
The European Day of Languages was also celebrated by our Greek Department.
The International School of Paphos (ISOP) celebrated the outstanding achievements of our students during the annual Academic Excellence Awards Ceremony that was held on Friday, 7th of October 2022, at the Sports Hall. As one of the most important events of the school, a significant number of guests attended the ceremony, including the Chairman, Μr Theodoros Aristodimou, members of The Board of Directors and shareholders, Members of the Parliament, Mr Charalambos Pazaros and Mr Chrysanthos Savvides, the President, Mrs Anna Abramova and members of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA), parents, students and staff members of the school.
As the Master of the Ceremonies, Deputy Head, Mr Nicolas Artemi expressed how proud the school is of the accomplishments of our students, “They have been a wonderful cohort who have faced up to the challenges of this difficult and demanding period, with a sense of purpose and dignity. I am confident that they will take this spirit forward with them, go on to do great things and contribute to the common good.”
The Head of School, Dr Litsa Olympiou, stated that the award ceremony provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the preceding year and share the achievements of our students. She continued by adding that, “We are here to publically share this success which is the result the sheer hard work and perseverance of our students, as well as their teachers. Undoubtedly, this is only possible with the constant support of parents.”
During the Academic Excellence Awards Ceremony, 128 academic awards were given in total. In more detail:
>27 students received the ISOP Scholarships and
>3 students, received the Papacleovoulou Law Firm Scholarship Award for Greek Studies
Additionally, a series of Special Prizes were awarded to 24 students, who succeeded in the following:
The programme of the ceremony was enriched by artistic touches presented by talented students of the school – piano performing, singing and rhythmic gymnastics- inspired by their motivated teachers.
This was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to meet and rejoice in our students’ successes.
The shareholder and board member Mrs Evi Papacleovoulou described the event as truly exceptional and highlighted that “Watching the young generation strive for the best version of themselves, putting in hard work, ethics and effort leaves a hopeful message to our hearts.”
Congratulations to all ISOP students!
As is customary, the students and teaching staff had the opportunity to vote for and to elect the Head Students, who will represent the school during the new academic year 2022-2023. The three candidates who have been elected are:
This year we were very happy to see so many candidates, full of energy and passion, aspiring to support the school and also generating fresh and innovative ideas. We would like to wish them all the best in their new important role and we want to assure them that the Management of the school and their teachers will be there to listen and to collaborate with them.
“The students and teachers of ISOP have spoken- we now celebrate the victory of electing the very foundation of the student body. I am truly honoured and proud to have had so much support from so many fellow students and teachers. As the new Head Student, I cannot describe how excited I am to work with you all. This, without question, will be a memorable year at ISOP. With your continued support and our focus, it will be the best year yet. Thank you all” Mario Arapakis
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who voted this year. The support you have given me and my fellow head students since the elections has been amazing. This year, with your help, we plan to organise as many events, sales and mufti days as we can, and create memories for not just the Year 13s, but for the whole school. I hope we will make an impact and succeed in being a voice for you, the students” Eleni Vlotoma
“Having attained the role of Deputy Head Student has been very fortunate and I’d like to guarantee everyone that I will fulfil the responsibilities to the best of my abilities. Let’s go and make this year a memorable one and hopefully leave a legacy for the great ISOP community” Jackson He
WELCOME (BACK) TO THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF PAPHOS
We are very happy to announce that our school’s participation in the Pan-Cypriot Student Competition entitled «Ο καρκίνος μέσα από τα μάτια μου» (Cancer through my eyes) for the MUSIC category, received the 3rd Prize, among 320 participants.
The competition was organised for the third consecutive year by the Oncology Centre of the Bank of Cyprus and other associations/organisations dealing with the topic of cancer, under the auspices of The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth and The Ministry of Health, and the cooperation of the Bank of Cyprus.
This initiative is part of the campaign to inform and raise awareness among the public and especially young people, about World Cancer Day which is celebrated every year on February 4 and World Childhood Cancer Day, on February 15.
The competition prizes were awarded at a special awards ceremony held on Thursday, 30 June 2022, at the Municipal Theatre of Strovolos.
The first 6 projects from each category (essay, song composition, visual work) were awarded and the first three winners of each category received cash prizes from the Bank of Cyprus.
Congratulations to all the production team:
Teachers: Demetris Efstathiou (Music) Eleana Charalambous (Lyrics)
Students: Nicholas Dakis 11E (singing/ Lyrics), Sophia 10R Zueva (singing), Ellie Polykarpou 12S (Recording/Music Technology), Maria Sigoulaki 7E (Lyrics)
We couldn’t be more proud of this amazing team and their achievement!
Students from The International School of Paphos participated in the Robotex Cyprus Robotex Cy 2022 competition in Nicosia this weekend.
They used a robot to measure water quality, which they developed with Dr Vivian Petinou from the Science Department and George Kyprianou from WeByte Pliroforiki. Students demonstrated their robot and explained to judges why water is so critical in Cyprus as shortages of water cause issues with the quality. They, also, highlighted the advantages of the robot use against traditional methods of data collection.
The President of the Cypriot Parliament who was visiting the competition, Mrs Annita Demetriou, spoke to the team at length.
The International School of Paphos has been running The International Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for nearly 15 years. This week Dr. Olympiou, Head Teacher, was very proud of how our students represented our Award Unit, and school, when they had an opportunity to meet His Royal Highness, Earl of Wessex. Award Participants were asked by HRH about their experiences and chatted about the difficulties of continuing the Award under COVID limitations. Mrs Polycarpou, Award Leader, accompanied the students and is happy that the school’s Award Unit is back in full action. Ready for new participants to join in September!
We are pleased to welcome new participants to the school’s International Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award at any time of the year as any young person can participate in the award scheme from the age of 13 ½ years. The Award is offered at Bronze, Silver or Gold Level; each of these becomes more demanding to the participant. You can start at any level, complete one, two or all three depending on your level of commitment and the time you have to give to the Award. In 1956 the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, Duke of Edinburgh, first launched The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to challenge young people. Interestingly, it has no fixed goal, you design your own award to challenge yourself. The Award, however, is designed to stretch the individual in four areas: Skill, Physical Recreation, Service and Adventurous Journey.
The International School of Paphos offers the award at all three levels and supports our students in achieving their goals. The skill, service and physical recreation activities are chosen independently by students and can be taken concurrently or sequentially. They can also be new activities or on-going commitments. The Adventurous Journey requires a team and ISOP helps students find teams, train and carry out this exciting activity. If any students are interested in starting their challenge, please contact Mr A Ignatiou or Ms M Kkeli, our Award Leaders.
The International School of Paphos held their Year 6 Graduation Ceremony on Wednesday 15 June 2022.
The Head of Primary School, Mrs Elena Kotsovos, welcomed everyone, including the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Μr Theodoros Aristodimou, the President and members of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA), parents, students and staff members.
The Primary School Graduates received their certificates and presented a beautiful music programme, inspired by their Music and Movement teacher, Ms Stefanie Mavrokordatou and Music teacher, Ms Svetla Taskova. Once again, the PTA contributed towards the awards. The students were honoured with a series of prizes, including the Sportsmanship Awards, ISOP Good Citizen Award, Junior ISOP Shield and the newly- established PTA Leadership Award.
Congratulations!
The annual Year 13 Graduation Ceremony of the Class of 2022 was held on Friday, 3 June 2022 in the Main Yard of The International School of Paphos, in the presence of the Chairman, Μr Theodoros Aristodimou, members of The Board of Directors and shareholders, the President and members of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA), esteemed guests, parents and staff members of the school.
In a traditional ceremony that included touching speeches and a wonderful music programme, the students, dressed in their Graduation gowns, were awarded with their school-leaving certificates and additional special prizes, which recognised their outstanding academic and personal achievements.
This special event began with the entrance of the 39 graduates and the welcome speech by the Deputy Head, Mr Nicolas Artemis, who highlighted the importance of the graduation day, for the students and their families but also for the school community. He congratulated the students on their successes throughout their academic journey and relayed his best wishes for their future plans, “You have worked hard, with discipline and dedication; you have overcome obstacles and difficulties; and you deserve to enjoy the fruits of your efforts”.
Subsequently, the Head of School, Dr Litsa Olympiou, referred during her speech, to the enormous challenges of today’s world but at the same time she added that is also filled with opportunities. Dr Olympiou urged the students to “Seize the day!”, to “Remember to act, dream, plan, believe”, to continue their quest for knowledge and to discover their own unique ways of contributing to our society. She gave them pertinent advice by encouraging them to have the following six ‘items’ in their ‘life suitcase’: “Respecting others by respecting yourselves; Shift the frontiers every day, in little ways; Be better than you need to be; Be your own person; Live your own story; Commit to the journey and not the outcome”.
The next to address the audience were the graduates’ representatives. First, the Deputy Head Student, Elli Paphitis, emphasised the fact that time passes quickly and shared the quote “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory”. Next, the Head Boy, Christopher Luizinho, shared his memories and thoughts: “On the first-ever day of school, we walked through the gates of ISOP, eyes wide open with nothing but curiosity and dreams for what lies ahead. Tonight, we leave this school as young men and women with tools handed to us by this school in order to embark on our next journey. Even though we have probably all transformed into such different people from that little boy or girl who walked through these gates, when we leave here tonight, my advice is don’t give up on those goals you had for yourself all those years ago. In the words of Nelson Mandela, “there is no passion in playing it small, in settling for a life, less than the one you are capable of living. Never settle. Be relentless. No regrets”. Equally touching was the speech of the Head Girl, Doan Vu Thuc Nguyen, who focused on changes and how the school had motivated her: “If ISOP has taught me one thing, it’s that endings are scary, that change is terrifying, but change is what propels us further on in life, and for us – it begins tonight… We all will be taking different roads after today, but I hope that tonight’s memories, along with everything in our last year, remains in your heart like it will in mine. And I am confident that whatever road each of you chooses to take – the world will be your oyster, and you should harvest it at any moment you can because I know everyone here is capable of so much.”
A series of prizes were awarded to the students, with the generous contribution of the sponsors organised by the PTA. The winners in each category were chosen by the school, based on their academic results, while also considering the effort and enthusiasm shown for each subject, the student’s character and his/her disciplinary record. The prizes included: Sportsmanship Awards, Music Awards, Papacleovoulou Scholarship for Greek Studies, Arts Prize (Art & Design, Drama, Music) by Almyra Hotel, Biology Prize by WeCare Medical Centre, Business Studies Prize by KPMG, Chemistry Prize by Aristo Developers, Economics Prize by Polycarpos Philippoy & Associates LLC, Humanities Prize (Geography/History) by Papantoniou Supermarkets, IT Prize by Hugge Coworking, Mathematics Prize and Modern Languages Prize (English Literature/French/German) by Michael Kyprianou – Advocates & Legal Consultants, Physics Prize by Aristo Developers, Cambridge Awards French Prize by the Pastoral Team in memory of Beverly Felson and the ISOP Zenon Trophy.
The Graduation Ceremony continued with the award of the leavers’ Apolytirion certificates that included a delightful description of each student separately, referring to their character and achievements.
We are proud of each and every one of our 39 graduates, the Class of 2022, as they take their first steps as global citizens. Congratulations to them and their families!
The International School of Paphos (ISOP) had the honour of welcoming to its premises Her Excellency the Ambassador of The Federal Republic of Germany to The Republic of Cyprus, Mrs Anke Schlimm, on Friday, 3 June 2022. The Ambassador was greeted by the Managing Director of the school, Mrs Aristi Andriotis and the Head of School, Dr Litsa Olympiou. She also had the opportunity to meet with members of the Senior Management Team, teaching staff, students and members of the administration, while she also enjoyed a tour around the school.
ISOP, as the Ambassador mentioned, was the first school she had the pleasure of visiting. The German Department of the school, which has more than 100 students, initiated the visit. Only a few schools promote the German Language and furthermore, the school is a member of the network PASCH, “Schools: Partners for the Future”, so this was another reason for her visit.
It was a great pleasure that Mrs Schlimm met two students of the German Language class, Eric Massad and Eleana Chrysanthou, who were accompanied by the German Department and PASCH Coordinator, Jana Panayi. The students were very excited to have the opportunity to talk in German with the Ambassador and to share their passion for the German Language and Culture. It is noteworthy that their ambition is to study in Germany, a country that they will enjoy visiting this summer, as scholars of the Pasch German Summer Language Camp.
Afterwards, she met with other members of the administration and teaching staff. The Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the School, Mr. Theodoros Aristodimou, also participated in the meeting. At the centre of a very pleasant and constructive discussion were topics related to a further strengthening of the school’s relations with the Embassy, ways of developing the German Language Programme and promoting Germany as a university study destination.
Mrs. Schlimm showed her interest in the structure of the school, the educational system it follows and how the school manages its multinational and multicultural environment, while she clearly expressed her enthusiasm for the school’s facilities.
The Managing Director, Mrs. Andrioti shared the vision and values of the school stating that “our school emphasises its ethos in welcoming all nationalities that want to benefit from our educational services, focusing always on mutual respect. The purpose of the school is “to encourage students from different cultures to study and live together”. She also highlighted that all levels of school facilities are on the same campus thus, “a student’s transmission from Primary to Secondary, is easier because the children are familiar with the environment, the system, the staff members and the facilities”. In addition, she also mentioned and described the facilities of the Boarding House, the school’s latest project.
The Head of the School, Dr. Olympiou, referred to the interesting fact that the school accommodates students of 42 different nationalities, while German students have significantly increased in recent years, with a huge rise in the last school year. She also informed the Ambassador about the Enhancement Department, through which the necessary support and assistance is offered, so that all students can access the curriculum to attain their potential.
Concluding, the Ambassador expressed her warm wish to continue the communication with The International School of Paphos and stated that the first steps have been taken for further collaboration, while she highlighted once again that “the main goals of the Embassy are to create a strong basis for the German Language Programme and to promote, as an option for future studies, the German Universities, whose high level of education is internationally recognised”. She lastly added that she would gladly accept proposals and suggestions that can be motivating forces in achieving these goals.
Before leaving the school, the Ambassador was offered a gift from the school, as well as a package of traditional delicacies prepared by the school’s cafeteria.
We look forward to many more opportunities for mutually beneficial visits.
The International School of Paphos has always been active in raising funds and giving service to its local and international community. In 2019, the school started its biggest campaign to date to raise funds for much needed support for cancer patients in Paphos. The project ran for a period of three years and the focus evolved over time, as the needs of PASYKAF altered and the pandemic curtailed the fundraising. In total, through a variety of events and donations coordinated by the school’s Philanthropy Club and Pastoral Team, 14,500 Euros were raised to purchase a much-needed car to offer 24-hour care by nurses in the Paphos District. These funds were raised during the COVID pandemic which saw the school physically closed for periods of time, and many businesses shut.
Despite this adversity, however, the school’s community was still able to raise a considerable amount of money by hosting events, special days and selling goods within school. These events also helped the school feel more ‘normal’ and encourage a sense of togetherness amongst the students and teachers, combatting the effects of the pandemic. Events organised included a Moonwalk, Chocolate Sale, Mufti Days (including a Christmas Jumper Day), Training shoes days, participation in Winter Fairs and many others.
Only by coming together as one was this possible and, as Mrs. Polycarpou, Deputy Head, said, “by having a common goal, however large, allows our students to see what is possible when small actions add up to one.” The tangible result of the school’s philanthropic spirit – a new car – will be used by PASYKAF Home Care Palliative Services, to help the nursing team to continue its care.
The International School of Paphos has been a part of the project “Schools: Partners for the Future” (PASCH) for 3 years. In 2008, the project as such was launched by the German Federal Foreign Office’s cultural relations and education policy with the aim to awaken and sustain young people’s interest in and enthusiasm for contemporary Germany.
Following this ultimate goal, we are extremely proud of our Year 9 German learners, who participated in the international theatrical project initiated between the Goethe-Institut in Nicosia and the German Youth Theater “Kaktus” in Münster, Germany. The cooperation consisted of 2 main events:
The first being the Theatrical performance “It is in blood” by the Youth Theater “Cactus” from Germany.
The second part was a theatrical workshop with enthusiastic German students from Year 9 at our school.
Their hard work, enthusiasm and dedication during the workshop led to their own German theatrical performance on the topic: sustainability and environment. Their play touched on some current problems, but at the same time, maintained a positive spirit, as well as brought a smile to everyone’s faces. The main message of working together as a team, to create a change and make the world a better place, was delivered also symbolically in the powerful finale dance, uniting all students.
Seeing the children cooperating and supporting each other throughout their whole involvement in the project, daring to reach beyond their comfort zone, perform in front of their fellow students, using their German knowledge in a completely new context, are achievements that will benefit them greatly in the future.
JAMICS is a student-based company from the International School of Paphos, formed by 7 dynamic potential entrepreneurs desiring to eliminate the risk of forgetting to take medicines, as well as tackle the hassle of having to remember the correct prescriptions.
“Well, it is my personal experience that inspired me to come up with this idea. While I was researching on the internet in search of the global issues that we can propose a solution for, the word “medical reminder” crossed my mind as it reminded me of my diabetic grandfather who has sadly passed away. He often struggled to memorise the prescriptions for the awful lot of pills that he had to take. Also, it wasn’t uncommon for him to forget to take his medicines sometimes, ” said our bright-minded COO, Beatrice Marro. It is needless to say that even though casually forgetting to take medicines might not be an issue for the majority, it is still imperative for the rest to make sure that they won’t skip any pills as they could be of life-supporting significance to them.
Even though Cyprus has a relatively large proportion of the population that relies on medicines, surprisingly no other similar products have been invented to help patients like our SmartMeds pillbox would. In light of this situation, we, JAMICS, have decided to propose an innovative solution towards this market gap in the principle of helping those in need.
With reference to our market research analysis, we were shocked to discover that around 3/4 of the respondents had at least forgotten to take their medicines once, as well as nearly 65% of respondents indicating that they need to take medicines on a long-term basis. These responses have strongly contributed towards our confidence even more in inventing such a product. We firmly believe that our pillbox is going to be truly helpful. SmartMeds is our ultimate solution towards the issue we have described above- it is a combination of both a physical pillbox and a user-friendly application that intends to provide our users with the most optimal experience possible. The pillbox itself has 6 LEDs corresponding to each individual compartment on the encasement, aiming to remind the users regarding which compartment their specific type of medicine is stored in. Our application works in conjuction with the pillbox in that it transmits the signal containing the instruction of switching on the led via Bluetooth. Ssimultaneously, it sends a notification to the users’ smartphone telling them it is the time to take the medicine, with the correct prescription attached.
Another premium feature of our application is that it enables you to communicate with your doctors directly at a tap of a button as we understand it is troublesome to find your doctor contacts in a never-ending pile of paper.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the respondents who answered our questionnaire in a wonderful manner. We gratefully appreciate the 106 responses gathered since it has really helped us to improve SmartMeds. Last but not least, it is The International School of Paphos that provided us with this amazing opportunity to be a part of the JA Cyprus’ Company project. Our project coordinator, Mr. Antonis Yiannouros, who is also a highly respected teacher at ISOP, has helped us substantially throughout our first and foremost business journey. Also, Ms Vasoulla Neophytou-Savva has offered us a lot of helpful support in terms of developing the hardware. It is absolutely the least of what we can do to appreciate their generosity in this article.
Editors: Chen He and Beatrice Marro
Learners from The International School of Paphos achieve top results in Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards
Ten learners from The International School of Paphos have received prestigious awards from Cambridge Assessment International Education to acknowledge their outstanding performance in the May/June 2021 Cambridge Examination Session.
The Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards programme celebrates the success of learners taking Cambridge examinations in over 40 countries around the world. Cambridge places learners at the centre of their international education programmes and provides qualifications which are inspired by the best in educational thinking.
We
would like to congratulate the following learners at ISOP received Outstanding
Cambridge Learner Awards:
Xingtong Zhu – Top in Cyprus – Business Studies
Beatrice
Marro – Top in Cyprus – ICT
Arian
Adeli Koodehi – Top in Cyprus – Business and IT
Anastasia
Uskova – High Achievement – Combined Science
Eleni
Vlotomas – High Achievement – Economics
Christine
Steinberg – High Achievement – Foreign Language German
Christopher
Luizinho – High Achievement – Economics
Nikolas
Hadjipaschalis – High Achievement – Biology and Chemistry
Andreas
Tavros – High Achievement – Business
George
Kuznetsov – High Achievement – IT
The Head of The International School of Paphos, Dr Litsa Olympiou, highlighted that
the awards recognised the talent, dedication and commitment of both learners
and staff. She said: “I am really touched by the achievements of our students,
who have made and continue to make our school and their families proud. Their excellent
examination results reflect their skills and capabilities which they consistently
develop. A warm thank you to our teachers, who in unprecedented and adverse conditions, maintained their dedication and sense of professionalism.”
Top performing learners will receive their Outstanding Cambridge
Learner Awards at a school ceremony in June 2022. Nicholas Artemis, Deputy Head
said: ‘It is extremely rewarding to celebrate the success of the learners and
teachers at ISOP who have worked so hard to achieve tremendous results in the Cambridge
Examinations. The success reflects the enormous talent in The International School
of Paphos, not only amongst learners, but also within the teaching profession.
Learners from ISOP have a bright future ahead of them, and I wish them every success’.
About Cambridge Assessment International Education
Assessment International Education prepares school students for life, helping
them develop an informed curiosity and a lasting passion for learning. We are
part of the University of Cambridge.
Our Cambridge Pathway gives students a clear path for educational success from 5 to 19. Schools can shape the curriculum around how they want students to learn – with a wide range of subjects and flexible ways to offer them. It helps students discover new abilities and talents within a wider world, and gives them the skills they need for life, so they can achieve at school, university and work.
Courtesy of The International School of Paphos for Parents and Guardians. We are pleased that out Continuous Professional Development (CPD) platform has been renewed. Now parents can join our Teachers and staff in accessing a wide range of resources aimed at enriching our knowledge and awareness as a community, to better support our children.
RESTORE OUR EARTH in school Field Trip
The future belongs to our youth at The International School of Paphos. We believe only by engaging our students in environmental awareness can we hope to help our planet survive. This care for our planet starts at a young age and as we teach students from 2 ½ to 19 years old, we have the unique opportunity to nurture a child’s development by making good life choices for the ecology surrounding us. As educators, it is our duty to illustrate the consequence of options, not just now but also in the future, in order to develop rounded, positive global citizens. Many people rise to a challenge and therefore a challenge that anyone however young can engage in, was the key to our action for the environment this year. A challenge to a person, or family under pandemic conditions has to be thought through, but if channeled appropriately can alter the family’s way of life and make significant impact on the environment taking into consideration the contribution by the number of families in a school.
We continue to be an Eco-School, and after 10 years of challenging our students to accentuate their contribution to our planet, we have to be creative in how to engage our students, whilst continuing to challenge them into new ways of reducing their carbon footprint, reducing their waste, decreasing their consumption and increasing the ‘green’ around them. The Philanthropy Club, run by students online through our Microsoft Teams platforms has continued to perform throughout the year being involved in projects and activities. Many of these ideas this year linked to the Eco-Schools activities.
The month-long Environmental Challenge was run during March – April and started with Earth Hour, encouraging all to switch off their lights and share the message on 24th March. From this date onwards, each day there was a different challenge designed by students for others to participate in. These activities varied from looking as well known recycling projects to lesser-known pollution issues such as noise and light. Each activity / challenge was designed in such a manner that an individual or family could participate at whatever age. Hopefully some of these actions would be small enough to become part of the daily lives of the families and students due to our encouragement. The students who participate will also receive a sprout pencil as a reward.
One of the challenges is to full the turtle ‘Kosmas’. The turtle was donated by the Eco-School’s team to collect plastic. The initiative of this is to ensure that the plastic is not only recycled, but also that the amount that we generate is on view so students are aware of how much we are impacting the planet.
Another challenge is RESTORE OUR EARTH Field trip in school. This is for our students (age 7-14) to participate in a field trip, although due to COVID restrictions we cannot leave the school. During the day, students participate in planting seeds, cuttings and each year group will plant and adopt a fruit tree to look after during their time at school. The graduating class will then pass this tree onto the newest students care for to. During the day, students also learn about the parts of a plant we eat, why we need insects, look for these insects, build an insect hotel and make coral polyps to understand that the environment is not just on land. The students will have a chance to clean up different areas around the school and learn why recycling is so important.
All of these challenges and activities have to be interesting to motivate our students to get up and do something. They also have to be small enough to be manageable and important enough that the students see they are making a difference. This is the key, by working together, taking small steps, we can make a difference. By maintaining this momentum, we can make it the norm and therefore create a generational change.
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The International School of Paphos (ISOP) has the ability to create accounts for all students to allow for collaborative sharing, based on our custom implementation of Office 365 for @ISOP-ed.org. These accounts will be used for school-related projects. The rules governing proper electronic communications by students are included in the IT Acceptable Use Policy. Once accounts are assigned, students gain access to the wealth of collaborative tools available through Office 365. However, no student will be assigned an account without parent or guardian consent.
This account is housed on Microsoft servers, thereby giving the student access to Office Online (Word App, Excel App, PowerPoint App, and OneNote App), email, and calendar, website authoring tools, wikis and other additional services. This will allow the student to collaborate with teachers and other students. An Office 365 account is an essential part of ISOP Modern IT plans.
Parents/Guardians have the ability to request full access to their child’s Office 365 account. The accounts will not be able to email anyone outside the ISOP student/teacher community. However, parents can request permission to email their child’s ISOP email account at any time (this will be the only “external” email correspondence allowed).
Students will be assigned an email account. This account will be considered the student’s official ISOP email address until such time as the student is no longer enrolled at ISOP. The naming convention will be the student’s initials and ending with @ISOP-ed.org. Please note, if a student emails the teacher, that email will go directly to the teacher’s official email account.
Students are responsible for appropriate behaviour just as they are in a traditional school building. It is not acceptable and, in some cases, unlawful to use obscene, profane, threatening, or disrespectful language. Communication with others should always be course related. Students will receive guidance on the appropriate use of emails. Students should notify the teacher of anything inappropriate or that makes them uncomfortable. Bullying will not be tolerated, and the privacy of others must be respected at all times.
The use of Office 365 is considered a privilege accorded at the discretion of The International School of Paphos. The school maintains the right to immediately withdraw the access and use of the account when there is reason to believe that violations have occurred. In such cases, the student will be referred to the Head of Pastoral for further investigation and application of necessary consequences as indicated in the Student Code of Conduct.
ISOP cannot and does not guarantee the security of electronic files located on Microsoft systems. Although Office 365 does have a powerful content filter in place, the school cannot assure that users will not be exposed to non-educational material. ISOP reserves the right to access and review content in Office 365 at any time. ISOP complies with all Cypriot and EU GDPR as well as privacy laws. As with any educational endeavour, we feel that a strong home school partnership is essential for a successful experience. Therefore, we are asking your permission to provide an Office 365 account to your child. Please fill out and return this permission slip to your child’s Form Teacher.
The student Office 365 account will remain in effect until written notice is submitted to the school or the student is no longer enrolled at The International School of Paphos.
The International School of Paphos is a Data Controller under the Data Protection Acts of 2018. The personal data supplied is required for the purposes of:
Please confirm whether you are happy for us to contact you by SMS/text message/email, to call you on the telephone numbers provided and to send you emails for the purposes of:
While the information provided will generally be treated as private and will be collected and used in compliance with the Data Protection Acts 2018, from time to time it may be necessary for us to transfer your personal data to other bodies (including the Ministry of Education & Culture). We rely on parents/guardians and students to provide us with accurate and complete information; to update us in relation to any change in the information provided. Should you wish to update or access your/your child’s personal data, you should write to the Head of School requesting an Access Request Form.
A copy of the full Data Protection Policy is available from the Admissions team on request, it is important that you and your child read it carefully. When you complete your application, you will be asked to sign that you consent to your data /your child’s data being collected, processed and used in accordance with the Data Protection Policy during the course of their time as a student in the school. Where the student is over 16 years old, they will be asked to sign their consent to this.
We may take photographs and video recordings of the children at our school. We may use these images as part of our school displays and sometimes in our school’s prospectus or in other printed publications that we produce. We may also use them as follows:
If we use photographs of individual students, we will not use the name of that child in the accompanying text or photo caption. If we name a student in the text, we will not use a photograph of that child to accompany the article. For example, if a child has won an award and the parent would like the name of their child to accompany their picture, we will obtain additional permission from the parent before using the image.
From time to time, our school may be visited by the media who will take photographs or film footage of an event or celebration. Students will often appear in these images, which may be part of local or national newspapers, websites or on televised news programmes.
To comply with the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), we need your permission before we can photograph or make any recordings of your child. You will be asked to complete a Photography and Media consent form which will provide you with specific details about how we may use images of your child/children and enable you to give specific consent.
This form is valid indefinitely from the date you sign it. It is your responsibility to let us know if you want to change or withdraw your agreement at any time.
We will not re-use any photographs or recordings a year after your child leaves this school. Historic photographs will remain on our school website and social media platforms.
We, the school, will not use the personal details or full names (which means first name and surname) of any child in a photographic image on video, on our website, in our school prospectus or in any of our printed publications.
We will not include personal email, postal addresses, telephone numbers or fax numbers on video, on the website, in our school prospectus or in other printed publications.
If we use photographs of individual students, we will not use the name of that child in the accompanying text or photo caption, unless we have your consent.
If we name a student in the text, we will not use a photograph of that child to accompany the article, unless we have your consent.
We may use group or class photographs or footage with general labels, such as ‘a Science lesson’ or ‘Sports Day’.
We will only use images of students who are suitably dressed, to reduce the risk of such images being used inappropriately.
Websites can be viewed throughout the world and not just in Cyprus where Cypriot and EU law applies.
Parent’s/Guardian’s consent will be recorded on the school’s Management Information System and will be retained no longer than is necessary for the purpose the data was obtained for. The paper copy will be retained on school file up to a year after your child leaves this school.
As the child’s Parents/Guardians, you agree that if you take photographs or video recordings of your child/Children which include other students, you will use these for personal and family use only and you will not post these on any personal social media accounts.
You understand that where consent has not been obtained from the other parents for any other use, you would be in breach of the Data Protection Act 2018 if you used the recordings for any other purpose.
