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  • Extra-Curricula Activities | AWIS - international school in Doha

    The curriculum is enhanced by a wide range of additional activities (ECA's). Extra-Curricula Activities We offer a mixture of teacher led activities and activities provided by external providers, to ensure there is something of interest for everybody. Activities change from time-to-time, while others are seasonal. LEARNING Year Groups Curriculum Learning Approach Student Assessment Extra-Curricula Activities Gain "real world" skills through a range of activities. We offer a range of varied and frequently changing Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA's). Typical examples are shown below: Internal ECA's Our teacher led activities are provided free of charge for our Year 1 - 6 students and are driven by our educational goals. These activities typically take place between 14:00 and 15:00, and are run by our dedicated teaching staff. They are not held every school week but are usually delivered in blocks of five weeks to allow for a variety of opportunities throughout the year. Children are limitted to enroling in no more than one teacher led activity, as places are limited. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Typical examples include football, sports, ICT skills and singing. External ECA's Extra-Curricular Activities are also provided by various outside agencies, and come at an additional cost. The choice of activities is diverse, catering to the varied interests of our students, and providing opportunities for them to explore new skills and hobbies. Examples from the past include: Fitness Funsters WeDo 2.0 Tennis & Badminton Martial Arts Ballet Science

  • Year Groups | AWIS - international school in Doha

    Children are grouped into Year Groups and Key Stages, in accordance with the English National Curriculum Year Groups Children are placed in Year Groups, according to age. These Year Groups range from Foundation Stage 1 for the youngest children (3-4 year olds) to Year 6 ( for 10-11 year olds) LEARNING Year Groups Curriculum Learning Approach Student Assessment Extra-Curricula Activities Our Year Groups align with the English National Curriculum. As a Primary School, our children range in age from 3 to 11 years of age. Under the English National Curriculum, children are assigned to Year Groups according to their age. This is similar to 'Grades' in the U.S. system, but does not align exactly. Year Groups are further grouped into Key Stages, as follows: Foundation Stage 1 and 2: Early Years Year 1 to Year 2: Key Stage 1 Year 3 to Year 6: Key Stage 2 We typically have 2 parrallel classes per Year Group. So by child age, this becomes: 3 - 4 years old: Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) / Early Years 4 - 5 years old: Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) / Early Years 5 - 6 years old: Year 1 / Key Stage 1 6 - 7 years old: Year 2 / Key Stage 1 7 - 8 years old: Year 3 / Key Stage 2 8 - 9 years old: Year 4 / Key Stage 2 9 - 10 years old: Year 5 / Key Stage 2 10 - 11 years old: Year 6 / Key Stage 2

  • Arlene Luce | AWIS - international school in Doha

    Arlene Luce Teaching Assistant Key Stage 1

  • Requirements for Joining an International School | AWIS - international school in Doha

    Requirements for Joining an International School Published: 1 December 2022 Learn in advance all the paperwork required to join an international school in Qatar The information in this article is supplied for parents in good faith. It is, to the best of our knowledge, correct at the time of publication. All rules are subject to change, and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education together with other relevant government departments remain the ultimate authority in these matters. AWIS cannot be held liable for the consequences of any error or omissions in this article. Admissions Process All schools administer their own application and admissions process, so requirements will differ from school-to-school. However, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Qatar (MoEHE) require all international schools to upload details of students and their parents to a central system. They require us to collect some very specific documentation from parents, before a new student is allowed in to school. The purpose of this article is to ensure parents are aware in advance of these requirements. They are advised to gather all necessary documentation before leaving their home country (including having documents attested, where required). Parents should have realistic expectations of the timeline between arriving in Qatar and their children being able to attend school. Your future employer in Qatar should be able to assist you with this. The information below is provided as a simple list, for ease of reference: A: Before Leaving Home 1. Most Recent School Report: If a student has attended a school previously (in Year 1 or above), be sure to bring a copy of their latest school report with you. If this report is from outside Qatar, it must be attested in exactly the same process you will be required to follow for having your educational qualifications attested. For example, in the UK this would require that the report is: signed and stamped by the school attested by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office stamped by the Qatar Embassy in London This can be a slow (and expensive) process, so allow plenty of time before departure. There are various agents who can assist with the process, and your new employer in Qatar should be able to offer guidance. 2. Immunisation Record Schools will ask for a copy of your child's immunisation record. Make sure you bring this with you, although (unlike the school report) it does not currently have to be officially certified. 3. Birth Certificate As above, be sure to bring birth certificates of the children with you. B: On Arrival in Qatar 1. Complete the Attestation Process The process for having your own paperwork attested, for employment purposes, needs to be completed once you arrive in Qatar. Your employer in Qatar will have made clear to you before leaving your home country exactly what paperwork is required (it is typically the degree certificate and degree transcript of the employee, but may include other documents). Once in Qatar, these documents have to be submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in Doha to be stamped (qualifications also have to be translated in to Arabic). Some employers will ask you to do this yourself, while many will organise this on your behalf. If travelling with children aged 7+, it is important to include the attested copy of their most recent school report (see item A1 above) is included in the bundle of documents to go to MoFA. 2. Qatar ID On arrival in Qatar, your employer will apply for residence permits for the whole family. The end result is each family member being issued a Qatar ID. The normal process is to first apply for the employee. Then, only once the Qatar ID of the employee has been received, the company starts the process for the other family members. Ensure you understand from your employer in Qatar how long they expect this process to take. Timings do vary considerably, and any delays will prevent your children starting at school. 3. Letter of Employment Schools are required to hold a Letter of Employment on file for a parent of each student we register. This is a letter, written by your employer, stating that the child's sponsor (usually one of the parents), is in full time employment. This letter is required regardless of whether the school fees will be paid by the employer or the parents. It is a standard requirement for all students entering international schools in Qatar, so it is likely your employer will have a proforma template available. 4. Medical Report Students joining Foundation Stage or Year 1 are required to submit a "Fit to Join" Certificate (School Entry Health Assessment Certificate). This certificate can only be issued by Government Health Centres across Qatar that fall under the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC). This entails a brief physician's examination, dental checkup, and a blood test. Call 107 (from within Qatar) to book an appointment. Please note that you will be asked to provide the child's health card number. You will then be able to choose a convenient date and time from the available time slots. On the day of the appointment, and after the physician's assessment is completed, you may collect the "Fit to Join School" certificate and the student's health record from the main reception of the health centre. The whole process takes around two hours. C: Choosing and Applying to a School A search on Google will quickly confirm that Qatar has a wide range of international schools available, covering many different curricula and price points. Selecting the one that best fits your needs is deeply personal. However, do remember to consider: Travel time from your house (or work). Peak Doha traffic can be problematic! Reputation and word of mouth. There are multiple online forums for expat mums and new arrivals to Qatar, where the alternatives are endlessly discussed. School ethos and culture are important. Visit your shortlisted schools to form your own view, before committing. Not all "international schools" are really international, and not all "British curriculum schools" follow a curriculum people from the UK would recognise as British. Be sceptical! The application process varies from school-to-school, so you need to contact each of them or research their websites. It typically entails an interview and/or assessment test, carried out on the school site. Some schools will make special arrangements for children not yet in the country. The admissions process typically starts in January/February each year, with the majority completed by June, ready for the following academic (which typically starts in mid to late August). Most schools continue to accept new students after the close of the main admissions process, and in to the academic year. However, the better schools will typically have very limited places available (specific year groups). If you know your children will not be in Qatar, with all the required paperwork completed, until after the main school admissions process is completed, you should consider opening a dialogue with a few potential schools before you arrive in Doha. Finally, be aware that the MoEHE often locks their student database midway through the academic year. This makes it very difficult for any international schools to accept new students after this cut-off, as we have to apply to MoEHE for special dispensation on a case-by-case basis. Unfortunately, the cut-off date varies from year-to-year, but is typically around March. Document Checklist By way of example, the list of documents we require here at AWIS, for a student joining us from overseas, is shown below. Note that not all are required at the start of the application process: many can be deferred until after a firm offer of a place has been accepted. ◽ Completed AWIS Application Form ◽ Qatar ID of student ◽ Passport of student ◽ Qatar ID of both parents ◽ 2 x passport photos of student (or a digital image) ◽ Immunisation record of the student ◽ Attested copy of most recent school report (if joining from outside Qatar, in Year 2 or above) ◽ Medical report (School Entry Health Assessment Certificate) - if joining FS or Year 1 ◽ Letter of employment from parent's employer in Qatar

  • Policies - Policies | AWIS - international school in Doha

    We have a number of school policies in place to document our procedures and expectations across the school. Policies We have a number of school policies in place to document our procedures and expectations across the school. Those most relevant to parents are listed below. SCHOOL Why Choose AWIS Ethos, Vision and Mission Community Timings and School Day Uniform Policies You are welcome to contact the School Office if you need any explanation or greater clarity. The following documents are available for download: Anti-bullying Policy .pdf Download PDF • 745KB Behaviour Guidelines - Students Yrs.1 to 2 .pdf Download PDF • 133KB Behaviour Guidelines - Students Yrs.3 to 6 .pdf Download PDF • 163KB Behaviour Policy .pdf Download PDF • 730KB Communication and Complaints Policy .pdf Download PDF • 837KB Late Arrivals Policy .pdf Download PDF • 682KB Late Collection Policy .pdf Download PDF • 763KB Student Safety Policy .pdf Download PDF • 711KB Student Sickness Policy .pdf Download PDF • 2.81MB Uniform Policy .pdf Download PDF • 677KB

  • Curriculum | AWIS - international school in Doha

    National Curriculum of England supplemented by the IEYC / IPC and the national requirements for the teaching of Arabic and Islamic Studies. Curriculum We are a British-style international school following the National Curriculum of England, carefully adapted to meet the needs of a diverse student body. LEARNING Year Groups Curriculum Learning Approach Student Assessment Extra-Curricula Activities AWIS offers a tailored approach to the best elements of the National Curriculum of England, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, and the International Primary Curriculum. Our core curriculum is the National Curriculum of England, as prescribed for use in all government schools within England. Detailed information on this can be found on the official UK Government website for the National Curriculum . All students also study the three compulsory subjects from Year 1 to Year 6, Arabic, Islamic Studies and Qatar History. Arabic and Islamic Studies lessons are also available for our native Arabic speakers in Foundation Stage 2. Foundation Stage (KG) Children under 5 years of age (at the start of the academic year, in August) will normally be placed in Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) or Foundation Stage 2 (FS2). These year groups are collectively referred to as EarlyYears. The Early Years uses a subset of the National Curriculum of England, called the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). The EYFS sets standards for the learning, development and care of your child from birth to 5 years old. Detailed information on this can be found on the official UK Government website for the EYFS . We use the EYFS framework to develop a cross-curricular, thematic, creative curriculum that incorporates key areas of learning and development. We implement a holistic approach which supports the development of all areas of learning; creating a nurturing and stimulating environment where young children can thrive and learn at their own pace. The EYFS framework identifies seven areas of learning and development: Communication and Language Personal, Social and Emotional Development Physical Development Literacy Mathematics Understanding the World Expressive Arts and Design The seven areas of the EYFS are interconnected, building strong foundations for children’s learning while developing essential skills and knowledge. We provide a nurturing and engaging environment where play is recognised as a vital part of early development. A balance of teacher-led and child-initiated experiences fosters curiosity, with meaningful interactions extending learning. By exploring and expressing their ideas in different ways, children deepen their understanding and grow in confidence. Our approach ensures learning is inspiring, engaging, and joyful, allowing children’s personal interests to flourish. Monster Phonics Monster Phonics is our structured phonics programme, taught from FS1 to Year 2, that lays the foundation for confident reading and spelling. It helps children break down words by identifying letter combinations (graphemes) and blending their sounds (phonemes). What makes Monster Phonics truly special is its fun, multi-sensory approach. Sounds are grouped into ten colour-coded categories, each brought to life by a playful monster character. These characters make learning interactive and engaging, sparking children’s interest and making phonics lessons something they look forward to. This programme is carefully designed to support all learners, including those who may need extra help, ensuring every child can succeed. Fully aligned with the National Curriculum for England, Monster Phonics provides a consistent and effective pathway for developing literacy skills during the crucial early years of education. By combining structure, creativity, and fun, Monster Phonics helps children develop a love for reading while building the skills they need for lifelong learning. Year 1 to Year 6 At AWIS, we follow the British National Curriculum, with all objectives in Maths, English, and Science derived from it. These objectives are delivered through tailored schemes of work designed for each Key Stage. Other subjects are taught through thematic units from the IPC (International Primary Curriculum). Children in Years 1 to 6 are grouped into two Key Stages, each following a consistent and cohesive curriculum: Key Stage 1: Years 1–2 Key Stage 2: Years 3–6 Mathematics Our core mathematics programme, Power Maths, is a mastery-based approach designed to ignite curiosity, foster enthusiasm, and build confidence in mathematics. This child-centred programme is built on a lesson design that promotes a growth mindset, helping all children develop a deep, conceptual understanding of mathematics. Power Maths incorporates the Concrete, Pictorial, Abstract (CPA) approach, using hands-on tools and visual representations to support children in grasping abstract concepts. The programme aligns fully with the outcomes of the National Curriculum for England, ensuring comprehensive coverage of key objectives. To support this, we also give children regular opportunities to practise using mathematical language. This helps them think critically and approach maths as a problem-solving tool, rather than just memorising facts. To enhance learning at home, we use the Times Tables Rock Stars Programme, which motivates students to practise their times tables regularly through fun, interactive challenges. This has significantly improved their fluency and accuracy, and we are proud to have won Qatar-wide competitions, reflecting their hard work and enthusiasm. English At AWIS, our English curriculum is guided by the outcomes of the National Curriculum for England. We believe that a strong foundation in key language skills (speaking, listening, reading, and writing)nis essential for children to succeed in all areas of learning. To support this, AWIS has made significant investments to help students develop these skills as quickly and effectively as possible. Oxford Reading Tree Our main reading scheme is Oxford Reading Tree, which provides a structured approach to reading. This is complemented by a variety of additional reading materials designed to spark curiosity and foster a love of reading among our students. Monster Phonics Monster Phonics is our structured phonics programme, taught from FS1 to Year 2. This is described in detail in the above section on the Foundation Stage curriculum. Literacy Tree In Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, we are excited to use the Literacy Tree scheme to enhance our reading and writing lessons. Literacy Tree is a complete, book-based platform that meets all National Curriculum requirements, providing a robust framework for our lessons. The programme is divided into three key sections: Writing Roots : This section features book-based planning sequences that cover writing skills comprehensively. It engages children in writing with a clear audience and purpose, fostering creativity and expression. Spelling Seeds : Literacy Tree teaches spelling and vocabulary in context, encouraging investigation and application. The Spelling Seeds component works alongside Writing Roots, using the same texts to provide additional opportunities for learning and practice. Literacy Leaves : This section focuses on enhancing reading comprehension through a series of activities that guide children through entire books. It aims to develop critical readers using a variety of texts, including novels, poetry collections, and high- quality non-fiction books. These texts are connected to the Writing Roots through overarching literary themes, enriching the overall learning experience. To support our writing programme, we incorporate the Oxford Writing Criterion Scale, which breaks down children’s writing development into small, manageable steps. This approach helps us understand each child’s current level and the next steps they can take to continue progressing. With Literacy Tree, we ensure that our students receive a well-rounded literacy education that fosters a love of reading and writing while meeting key curriculum objectives. Science We use White Rose Science, a programme designed to spark curiosity and excitement while nurturing confidence in science. Using a small-steps approach, it helps children explore scientific concepts deeply and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Aligned with the National Curriculum for Science from Years 1 to 6, White Rose Science encourages hands-on investigations and meaningful discussions that bring science to life. The programme builds children’s understanding step by step, ensuring every learner can actively engage and succeed in their scientific journey. By combining exploration, inquiry, and practical learning, White Rose Science inspires children to see the world through a scientific lens and develop a lifelong love of discovery. International Primary Curriculum (IPC) For the remainder of the curriculum we follow the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), a cross-curricular, thematic, and creative curriculum designed to inspire and engage children. Rooted in the latest research on learning styles, the IPC takes a global approach, encouraging children to connect their learning to their local context while exploring perspectives from other cultures and countries. The IPC provides a clear framework of what children should learn, covering a broad range of subjects found in a well-rounded primary curriculum. It supports the development of subject-specific knowledge and skills while emphasising the interconnectedness of different disciplines, ensuring a cohesive learning experience across all areas of the curriculum. At the heart of the IPC are its specific learning goals, which focus on subject knowledge, personal learning, and international mindedness. Personal learning goals ensure children are taught in such a way that they become adaptable, ethical, resilient, empathetic, respectful, thinkers, communicators, and collaborators. These goals are embedded into our teaching of History, Geography, Art, and other subjects, creating a seamless approach that connects all aspects of our curriculum. This ensures that children not only develop a deep understanding of each subject but also see how their learning fits together in a meaningful and global context. Arabic At AWIS, we value Qatar's native language and culture, ensuring that all students in Years 1 to 6 study Arabic as either a first or second language. All students receive five Arabic lessons each week. Native Arabic-speaking students follow the Ministry of Education’s curriculum, with lessons covering speaking and listening, reading, writing, grammar, and dictation. To further enrich their learning experience, the Arabic Department organises special events and competitions, such as the Arabic Spelling Bee and Reading Competition. For non-native speakers, lessons focus on building confidence in the language through engaging speaking and listening activities, helping students develop an appreciation for the Arabic language and culture. Islamic Studies All Muslim students in Years 1 to 6 study Islamic Studies as either a first or second language. All students receive two lessons of Islamic Studies each week. Native Arabic-speaking students follow the Ministry of Education’s curriculum, learning and explaining Surahs, understanding the six pillars of Eman, and exploring the five pillars of Islam. Non-native speakers study Islamic Studies in English, following the Call to Faith teaching resource. These lessons provide an engaging introduction to Islamic values, practices, and beliefs while fostering understanding and respect for the Islamic faith. Qatar History All students at AWIS have one Qatar History lesson per week, taught using the Ministry of Education’s textbooks in both English or Arabic, depending upon the Arabic language ability of the student. Additionally, connections to Qatar are integrated within our IPC units, allowing students to relate their learning to their host country. This approach encourages respect for Qatari culture while fostering international mindedness and an appreciation for the diverse nationalities within our school. As part of our commitment to celebrating Qatar’s heritage, we recognise key national events such as Qatar National Day and Qatar Sports Day. These celebrations provide opportunities for children to embrace and appreciate the traditions and values of their host country.

  • School Fees | AWIS - international school in Doha

    School Fees School fees are low compared to many international schools in Doha. We provide excellent value for money, when considering the quality of the teaching staff and the high level of education provided. ADMISSIONS Requirements Application Process Assessment School Fees Our fees are regulated by the Ministry of Education, and subject to change from time-to-time. One-Off Payments A QR500 Application and Assessment Fee is paid at the time your child is assessed for a place. A Registration Fee is paid at the time you accept the offer of a school place. The amount is: QR2,000 for Foundation Stage (KG) and Year 1 QR2,300 for Years 2 to 6 Recurring Payments The Annual Tuition Fee is split into 3 Term Fees, calculated pro rata on the number of days in each term. The Term Fees are invoiced one month before the start of the term, and are due by the first day of the term. The Annual Tuition Fee is: QR27,316 per year for Foundation Stage (KG) QR31,185 per year for Years 1 to 6 Additional incidental charges will be invoiced as required. All invoices are issued in advance, with payment in full required during the first week of the term they relate to. School fee schedule 2025 - 2026 .pdf Download PDF • 224KB MoEHE Approved Fees Academic Year 2025 - 2026 .pdf Download PDF • 183KB

  • Irena Hujdur | AWIS - international school in Doha

    Irena Hujdur Yr.1 Class Teacher & School Counsellor

  • Timings and School Day - Timings and School Day | AWIS - international school in Doha

    Discover the school daily schedule, including timings for classes, parent pick-up/drop-off details, and more. Timings and School Day The school operates from Sunday to Thursday during term time. There are three terms per year, with the long summer break typically from late June until late August. SCHOOL Why Choose AWIS Ethos, Vision and Mission Community Timings and School Day Uniform Policies Drop-off is 06:45 to 07:10. Drop-off and Pick-up The school gates open at 06:45 each morning. Please do not drop your children off before then, as they will be unable to enter the premises and we do not have staff available to supervise them. Students arriving after 07.10 are considered late, and will have missed registration. Please report to the School Office, where staff will add him/her to the class register for the day. Note that timings are staggered to reduce traffic congestion, so we appreciate parents doing their best to abide by the following guidelines: Foundation Stage: Arrive 06:45 to 07:10 Depart 13:00 to 13:15 Years 1 to 6: Arrive 06:45 to 07:10 Depart 13:45 to 14:00 For security, all children must be collected by an adult who has previously been registered with the school as authorised to collect. This information is part of our Application Form. If you need to authorise additional people to collect your child, or change this data in any way, please call the School Office so we can make suitable arrangements. Please make all reasonable efforts to collect your children on time at the end of the school day, as staff supervising them have to leave for other tasks. However, we fully understand that, on occassion, circumstances intervene! If you are running a bit late to collect, we would appreciate a phone call to the School Office , so we can make the necessary arrangements for supervision of your child beyond normal working hours. Collecting Your Child Mid-morning We recognise there is an occasional need to collect children during the school day - for example, for a doctor's appointment. In such a case, please visit the School Office where staff will document the reason for early collection and give you a permission slip. This slip should then be given to the class teacher when collecting your child from the classroom. After School Club We offer an After School Club to Foundation Stage students, as teaching finishes earlier for the youngest children. This keeps them safe, busy and entertained from 13.00 (when Foundation Stage finishes) until 14.00 (when Years 1 - 6 finish) so that parents can collect siblings at the same time. Note that there is a nominal charge for this service. Absences If your child is going to be absent for one or more days then, regardless of the reason, we would appreciate notification of the dates and a brief explanation. We use this to update registers and to ensure that the School Office and the Class Teachers are both aware of any children not expected in school. School Office Normal hours for the School Office are 06.45 until 14.30 during term time, for Sunday until Thursday. During school holidays, the office works reduced hours of 08.00 until 12.00, from Sunday until Thursday. It is completely closed during statutory holidays (for example, Eid) and at very quiet periods. The office is always closed every Friday and Saturday. Typical School Day Foundation Stage The school day for our Foundation Stage children begins with drop-off between 06:45 and 07:15. Parents are welcome to accompany their children into the Foundation Stage area to help them settle in. A staff member is on duty each morning to greet and receive students, while teachers use this time to prepare for the day ahead. We understand that some younger children may take time to adjust, and we encourage parents to work closely with our staff to ensure a happy and smooth start to the day. Developing independence is a key focus of the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) programme. From the outset, children are guided on how to organise themselves for class, fostering confidence and self-sufficiency. The daily schedule includes two half-hour breaks, with time allocated for eating during each break. As we do not have a cafeteria on site, children are required to bring a packed lunch from home. Foundation Stage finishes at 13:00. At the end of the school day, children are encouraged to tidy up their belongings and ensure they have everything they need for home. An After School Club is available from 13:00 to 14:00, offering supervised care and activities. This service requires additional payment. This allows parents with siblings in older year groups to collect children at the same time. Year 1 to Year 6 Children in Years 1-6 can be dropped off from 06:45, with pick-up from 13:45. The school day is structured to provide engaging learning opportunities, with registers taken promptly at 07:20 and lessons beginning at 07:30. The school day includes three breaks: A 5-minute snack break at 08:25. A 45-minute break at 10:05, where children have 30 minutes to eat and 15 minutes for outdoor play. A 20-minute break for eating at 12:30. As there is no cafeteria on-site, children need to bring a packed lunch each day. After School Club runs daily from 14:00 to 15:00 at an additional cost. We also offer a range of Extra Curricula Activities (ECA's) - see here . Transport Please be aware that the school does not operate a school bus. We have, in the past, facilitated parents and companies wishing to organise a transport service to/from a specific housing compound and/or a specific employer. No such bus services are currently operating. If anybody wishes to organise a transport service, we are happy to assist by putting relevant parents in contact. Please contact the School Office as a first step. 2025-26 Term Dates - approved by MoEHE .pdf Download PDF • 728KB

  • Alice the Musical | AWIS - international school in Doha

    Alice the Musical A Magical Journey to Wonderland Published: 19 May 2025 An unforgettable journey to wonderland, brought to life through the amazing acting, singing and dancing of over 50 AWIS students. What an unforgettable adventure we’ve had with Alice the Musical! As Musical Director, I had the absolute pleasure of guiding our incredibly talented students through this creative journey from auditions to standing ovations. The Build Up It all began back in November, when the excitement started to build as we announced auditions for our school production. Over 77 children auditioned, a fantastic turnout which showed the enthusiasm and passion of our students. Each child sang a song of their choice and performed a character excerpt. It’s safe to say that Ms. Sharon, Ms. Rebecca and I were blown away by their courage, talent, and energy. Casting was no easy task! After much consideration, we revealed the final cast list in December to great anticipation and cheers for one another. Rehearsals officially kicked off in January. Each week, our dedicated chorus worked hard learning brand new songs, while those with speaking roles brought their characters to life scene by scene. From the Mad Hatter to the Queen of Hearts, we were getting to know a whole new cast of wonderful characters and the children were already showing another side to them full of drama and fun. We rehearsed consistently right through to March, when we paused for a well-deserved break during Ramadan. Once April sprang, it was full steam ahead as we entered our final stretch. Rehearsals intensified for sure with extra hours after school, lunchtime run-throughs, and every spare moment spent polishing scenes, lines, and songs. The commitment shown by the children was nothing short of superb. The days were flying by and before we knew it the big nights had arrived May 18 and 19. As the children arrived early, bubbling with excitement and nerves, we could feel the magic in the air. Parents began to fill the seats, the lights dimmed, and all of a sudden… we were in Wonderland. The Performance What followed was an electrifying performance filled with colour, laughter and music. The audience were taken on an adventure from the real world to wonderland meeting the most peculiar characters. We took part in a ‘Caucus Race’, a ‘Mad Tea Party’ and even had time for a game of ‘Croquet’ before investigating ‘Who Stole the Tarts?’ The children shone on stage, bringing every character to life with joy and confidence. There were so many beautiful musical moments, not to mention a few surprises that had the audience singing along too! The atmosphere was marvelous. It was much more than a show, it was a celebration of hard work, creativity, and teamwork. The first of its kind in AWIS, and we, the staff, parents and AWIS community could not be prouder of every single child who took part. This will be a production we all remember for years to come. Acknowledgements Of course, none of this would have been possible without the incredible behind-the-scenes teamwork and external support of more people than I can individually mention by name. A heartfelt thank you goes to our fantastic team here at AWIS, from face painting and costume creation, to props and set design, scene transitions. Managing music cues, calming nerves, creating smiles and helping coordinate every moment backstage took a true village effort, and I’m so grateful and proud of what we accomplished together. We must also thank our wonderful parents who, over many months, through their full support behing theproduction and their amazingly talented children. Our generous sponsors also deserve our thanks for their vital support which made the production possible: Gold Sponsors: Snoonu, and Manweir WLL (Mr. Neil Angus) Silver Sponsors: BrandX, and Strong Rent-A-Car Bronze Sponsors: The Karanfil Family Venue: Shaza Hotel Doha But perhaps most important of all: Congratulations to the cast of Alice the Musical 2025! Until the next curtain call… Ms. Aoife Quinn Musical Director ATM Programme .pdf Download PDF • 1.80MB

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