The Marmite Returns...

These past couple of weeks in the lukio have seen the return of the Marmite, some Japanese visitors, and a lot of play doh.

Last week we welcomed our new batch of International Studies (IS1) first years. It only seemed right that we shared some incredible* Marmite with them. This has become a tradition of mine whenever meeting new students. They couldn’t quite believe it when I exclaimed that I could easily eat Marmite sandwiches three times a day!

*Unfortunately, my opinion on its taste was not shared by too many students :(

This served an important lesson though: that this class is all about exposing ourselves to different things from around the world. Our lessons so far have focused upon getting to know one another. Cue all sorts of crazy games, from making newspaper clothes to acting like Batman to trying to figure out where different songs come from. It was an honour to introduce them to the likes of The Proclaimers, a Scottish band, and Shania Twain. Of course, Ed Sheeran proved to be a popular musician.

Newspaper Kimono

Here's a bit of The Proclaimers! 

It’s always exciting getting new students. However, revisiting last year’s IS1 students (who are now in their second year) has been awesome. We’re currently planning a big project for the school this year while preparing for next year’s Dublin visit - an annual course trip which never fails to impress.

Oscar Wilde in Dublin

We have plenty of travel projects taking place in the school. For example, the Nordplus Junior project is still in progress. Last year’s Iceland trip was amazing and we’re now looking forward to Malmö, Sweden, in October.

Iceland Throwback

Last week, we had some wonderful Japanese visitors who explored the school and the area. The teachers enjoyed a sauna evening where the conversation was broad and the lingonberry cake was delicious. Seriously. In a couple of months, some incredibly lucky Merenojan students will have the opportunity to travel to Japan. Having heard about previous visits, it sounds like they are in for an absolute treat.

Speaking of Merenojan, that is where I spend a lot of my time now. I’m teaching small groups of students English every day and it’s a lot of fun. We’re busy molding words out of play doh, kicking around my precious football to practice translations, and playing with some beauuuuutiful unicorn cards. In fact, all of the students are now acquainted with Sebastian the Unicorn who we like to throw around when asking and answering questions.

Today ended on a fun note with a lukio football competition! The crazy English football fan in me was screaming. 15C were victorious but all of the students played so well - a big congratulations to all involved. Overall, it's been an excellent start to the year...