Mr. James’ Weekly Reflection – 09 October

Dear Nadeen Family,

It has been another inspiring and energetic week at Nadeen, filled with teamwork, leadership, and a wonderful sense of community spirit that continues to make our school such a special place.

Our first Learner Leadership meeting took place this week, where learners discussed exciting upcoming Think Pink activities, which they will lead as part of our wider efforts to promote awareness and compassion across the school. They also shared thoughtful ideas around the Sixth Form uniform, as we prepare for the opening of Years 12 and 13 next year, a key milestone in our continued growth.

Over the weekend, a group of our learners represented Nadeen at the NASA Space Apps Challenge at Bahrain Polytechnic, and they were nothing short of spectacular! Over two long and challenging days, the team showed incredible resilience as they planned, researched, animated, and presented a project celebrating the 25th anniversary of a major climate-monitoring satellite. A very special mention goes to Temi and Nasser in Year 5, who were the youngest participants among more than 700 competitors across Bahrain, and likely among the youngest in the world! They impressed everyone with their ideas and enthusiasm. A huge thank you also goes to Mr Phil, Head of Secondary Science, who kindly gave his weekend to guide and support the learners at short notice. His input helped the learners navigate complex scientific ideas while keeping their project fully learners-led, and they absolutely rose to the challenge.

This week was also House Sports Week, and it was wonderful to see our learners from FS2 through to Year 11 fully engaged in a range of sporting activities, showing such great energy, teamwork, and enthusiasm. On Monday, our Under 11 BSME football teams played their first friendlies of the year, coming away with five wins and five clean sheets, an excellent start to their season! Our Under 15 Table Tennis team also represented the school brilliantly in the Senior Sports League tournament, and our Under 15 girls had a valuable friendly match at St Christopher’s, where their determination, positivity, and team spirit shone through.

We are currently reviewing feedback from the Parent Survey and will be sharing a ‘You Said, We Did’ update next week. We are also carefully considering the comments from the Uniform Survey. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share suggestions and perspectives. Your voices help shape our collective journey.

Today, we had a vibrant and joyful Diwali celebration at Nadeen, complete with food sharing, music, and colour throughout the school. I returned to school after attending a UNESCO event with the Prime Minister to find the Reception area alive with loud drums, bright decorations, and the energy of our learners and staff. A huge thank you to Ms Shanee and the Friends of Nadeen for organising this wonderful celebration, which not only highlighted the beauty of Diwali but also brought our community together in a spirit of joy, sharing, and cultural appreciation.

As we come together this Friday for our Race for Cancer Awareness, it also provides a timely moment to pause and reflect on World Mental Health Day. This day serves as a reminder that our wellbeing, both physical and mental, is equally important, and that kindness, support, and empathy are the foundations of a healthy community. Globally, 1 in 8 people live with a mental health condition, yet, the simplest acts of compassion can have a profound impact. Research shows that 89% of people feel better after performing an act of kindness, and 90% feel better after receiving one. Even a smile, a kind word, or a moment of genuine listening can make a real difference.

At Nadeen, we believe in the power of connection and understanding. Every one of us, child, parent, or staff member, carries unseen challenges, and that’s why being kind, supportive, and mindful of one another matters so deeply. Small, everyday actions build trust, create belonging, and remind us that we are never alone. As we walk, run, and cheer together during Friday’s event, let’s also carry forward the spirit of awareness, compassion, and community. Let’s continue to make Nadeen a place where every learner feels seen, valued, and supported, a place where kindness isn’t an initiative, but a way of life.

Thank you, as always, for your continued partnership, encouragement, and care for our community. Together, we create the environment that allows every learner, and every person, to flourish.

With gratitude and best wishes,

#MoreThanASchool #GrowTogetherThriveAsOne 

Warm regards,

James Batts

Principal, Nadeen School