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US-style learning journey at school

July 16 - 22, 2008
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Gulf Weekly Stan Szecowka
By Stan Szecowka

A hallmark of American education has always been its dedication to offering a 'well-rounded experience' for its students.

While academics remain the core of a quality programme, US schools are noted for the emphasis they place on developing all aspects of their students. Athletics, the fine arts and community service are considered important components of an excellent American-style educational journey.

When the Riffa Views International School opens in September it will be uniquely equipped to meet these needs.

From its inception, the design of the school campus has aimed to reflect the school's commitment to provide students the opportunity to grow and develop in their areas of interest.

The athletic facilities available for students at Riffa Views are said to be "quite exceptional". The school has focused on 'lifelong fitness' in the development of its athletic facilities.

Its unique location allows students the opportunity to learn golf on the newly developed Royal Golf Club's Academy Course, which is perfect preparation for those who want to graduate to the Colin Montgomerie Championship Course.

In addition, the school has entered into an agreement with the Boris Becker organisation and students will have access to the Boris Becker Tennis Centre located on campus which comprises seven outdoor tennis courts and one indoor tennis court.

Students interested in aquatics will be able to develop their skills in a 25-meter six-lane competition pool.

Kindergarten age children will begin their swimming careers in a purpose-designed training pool.

The school also boasts a large natural grass field and full size gymnasium. Secondary students will also enjoy a full fitness centre and an aerobics dance studio with a sprung-hardwood floor.

Students whose interest lies more in the fine arts will enjoy large choral and band rooms, a dedicated performance hall alongside a Cafetorium theatre (cafeteria with a stage).

Dedication to the community is seen by the school as a core value to be instilled in all students. With this in mind, community service will be woven into the regular programme for all students at all grade levels. All students will be active contributors to the local community and to the world at large.

Students from first-grade forward will have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of after-school activities which means that a student's day at Riffa Views International School does not have to end at 3pm.

These co-curricular activities allow students who have a special interest to expand upon the experiences they have enjoyed during the school day. Students will have a wide range of facilities to choose from based on their interests and the aptitudes of the teaching faculty.

In addition to a wide range of after school athletics including ball sports, swimming, tennis, and golf, the school will also offer drama, choir, and a wide range of clubs. Additional programmes will be offered based on student interest. The after-school programme will be reviewed and re-designed each year to reflect the needs and desires of the students enrolled in the school.

Bruce McWilliams, the school's founding director said: "An important part of our mission is to provide for the well-rounded aesthetic and physical development of every student.

"It is also important to us that as students progress through the school they develop a multi-cultural understanding and are appreciative and supportive of other cultures and those less fortunate than themselves.

"We believe that we need appropriate facilities and programmes in place in order to develop rounded students. We are very excited about the quality of facilities we have available to us to develop a truly outstanding programme for our students."

Richard Browning, CEO of Riffa Views, added: "We are proud of the extra curricular activities that the Riffa Views International School has to offer. These activities will certainly allow students form an indelible vision of lifestyle which is the major attraction for those who live at Riffa Views."







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