Our Year 7 pupils recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to Lake Plastiras, and what an adventure it turned out to be! From thrilling outdoor activities to team building exercises and breathtaking hikes, the trip was filled with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories.

On the first day, the pupils wasted no time in diving headfirst into the various activities available at the lake. Canoeing, water biking, mountain biking, and archery were the exciting options that awaited them. The children revelled in the thrill of navigating the pristine waters, pedalling through the lake's glistening surface, and honing their aim with a bow and arrow. These activities not only provided a thrilling experience but also allowed them to discover new skills and interests.

The day was not just about adrenaline-pumping adventures; it also offered a chance for the pupils to bond with one another and develop their teamwork skills. Through team building activities, the children learned the importance of effective communication, synchronization, and positive spirit. It was heartwarming to witness their enthusiasm as they worked together, encouraging and supporting each other. Some of them even took advantage of a moment of rain to embark on a memorable lakeside walk, listening to the soothing sounds of nature.

The second day of the trip took the pupils and their teachers on a captivating hike to one of the peaks of the majestic Agrafa mountain. As they trekked through the rugged terrain, they were treated to breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape. A quick snack break provided an opportunity for all of them to appreciate the beauty around and reflect on their journey so far. They then continued their hike, filled with a sense of achievement and wonder.

To culminate their hiking adventure, the children enjoyed a well-deserved lunch at the Agrafa hut, savouring their meal while sharing stories and laughter. It was evident that the trip had created lasting memories and forged new friendships among some of them. The journey back to Athens was filled with anticipation for future adventures and a sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences they had shared.

The Year 7 trip to Lake Plastiras was truly a remarkable experience for everyone involved. The pupils not only had the chance to engage in thrilling activities but also learned the value of teamwork, communication, and a positive outlook. The beauty of nature, combined with the spirit of adventure, made this trip an unforgettable one.

As we bid farewell to Lake Plastiras, our pupils carry with them loads of beautiful memories, newfound friendships, and a sense of excitement for the future. We look forward to witnessing their continued growth and the adventures that await them in Year 8!

On Friday, 5th May, Year 9 embarked on an exciting trip to Delphi. Our journey began at the site of the ancient oracle, where pupils immersed themselves in history. We then embarked on a memorable hike through the UNESCO world heritage site, following an ancient footpath that started at approximately 632 meters above sea level and descended towards the sea.

During our hike, we reached Chrisso, a picturesque spot where pupils paused to taste olives and learn about the various methods of olive processing. Our knowledgeable guides provided us with fascinating insights into traditional practices. Afterwards, we continued our descent towards Itea, where we would spend the night.

In the evening, the group enjoyed a delicious dinner at the hotel before venturing out for a leisurely walk as a group around the town of Itea. Many treated themselves to an ice cream at Archontikon before heading back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep.

The following day, pupils were divided into two groups to embark on an exhilarating mountain biking adventure around the breathtaking Livadi Plateau. We engaged in entertaining games such as Shephard and Sheep, as well as team-building activities that enhanced our teamwork, critical thinking, and hand-eye coordination skills. Additionally, pupils had the privilege of participating in an archery lesson. Our instructors enlightened us on the art of attuning oneself with the bow and arrow, a skill that has been honed by humans for thousands of years.

The groups then either hiked back down the path we had previously taken or cycled through it, relishing the scenic beauty surrounding us. The groups joined together for a final meal together at a restaurant overlooking the magnificent plateau, creating lasting memories of our shared adventure.

The Year 9 trip to Delphi and Parnassos was an extraordinary experience, allowing us to delve into ancient history, appreciate natural wonders, and develop valuable skills. It was truly an enriching journey and an unforgettable few days!

Families of our junior school pupils were warmly welcomed to the Efilena Estate on Monday 15^th May for a fascinating workshop on children’s relationships. It was presented by our visiting school psychologist, Dr. Hadjipateras Giannoulis, and our school counsellor, Ms Stefania Zarri.

The topic was one which has great relevance for families today, namely ‘Dealing with peer conflict and bullying: promoting your child’s friendships’. After an interesting discussion, visitors were offered coffee and refreshments whilst having the opportunity to speak with both experts with their concerns and questions. A very fruitful morning for all, it has to be said.

On Thursday 18^th May, Year 3 led a SunSmart day for St Lawrence College junior school, which has become their happy responsibility over the last few years. The children presented a fun assembly about how to stay safe in the sunshine – a most important consideration as we are living in sunny climes! They were supported by the ISDIN company which provided a range of sun-protective products for all our children, and we sang along to the well-known refrain: ‘Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide song as sung by the SunSmart mascot, Sid the Seagull. Remember – slip on a top, slop on some sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on the coolest sunglasses you can find!

We were particularly pleased with the high levels of participation in the UK Junior Maths Challenge at St Lawrence College this term. Pupils from Years 5 to 8 achieved some respectably high scores. A number of our Junior School pupils in Years 5 – 6 received Bronze and Silver awards, whilst some senior school pupils in Years 7 – 8 received Bronze, Silver and even Gold awards with excellent results. We would particularly like to commend Lawrence Papadakis, who achieved the school's highest result and will be going on to take part in an international competition of some renown, the Junior Maths Olympiad, on 14^th June. We wish him the very best of luck!

Congratulations to all who participated and tried their very best!

The IA Bronze group have successfully completed their final two expeditions of the year over the past few weeks. The practice expedition was completed in Western Parnitha, with pupils hiking from the village of Fyli to the Fyli Fortress, where they camped, before returning to Fyli the next day. During this journey all groups focused on improving their navigational skills, using physical and human features in the landscape to help them navigate as well as compass bearings. The final expedition to Kea was an opportunity for pupils to showcase what they had learnt over the year with all pupils demonstrating excellent skills and knowledge. The pupils enjoyed two days of brilliant hiking from Coressia to Pisses in beautiful weather whilst taking in the wonderful vistas offered by Kea as well as the local flora and fauna, including vibrant wildflowers, snakes and spiders (which some pupils were not too keen on!). The first day ended at the beach of Pisses which allowed students to relax, play ball games on the beach and swim. A speedy return to the port on the second day was made by all groups, passing the Monastery of Agia Marina and through the Flea valley, and then it was back on the ferry to Lavrio.  It has been a pleasure to guide this group through their IA Bronze and we have immensely enjoyed seeing these pupils develop into independent, confident and resilient young adults.

On Wednesday 10^th May, Year 2 took a pleasant trip to the Vorres Museum to enhance learning in their art curriculum. The children have been learning about Super Sculptures, so this museum was an ideal choice as it so full of fascinating pieces of work of all shapes and sizes. The children engaged in some super artwork of their own too for a fascinating day filled with creativity!

Over the last week the annual sports days for pupils from year 7-10 took place. Pupils came and took part in sports events that included high jump, shot put, running and tug of war.

Over 300 pupils represented their houses from across the four year groups. This year four previous school records were broken! In year 7, Lauren Koutsogianni and Katerina Zagoridou broke the school records for year 7 high jump and shot put respectively. Lauren managed to jump an incredible 1.36m breaking the previous school record (1.33) which stood since 2018. Katerina broke the year 7 girls shot put record that stood since 2012 (7.37)by throwing the shot put 7.41m!

In year 8, the boys and girls high jump records were broken by George Depolo and Sofia Mikati respectively. Sofia Mikati achieved a magnificent jump of 1.44m breaking the record previously standing since 2013(1.37). George Depolo smashed the record from 2019 by 12cm as he jumped an astounding 1.64m.

All sports days finished with fun and big smiles as pupils from opposing houses showed off their strength trying to pull the other team across the finish line in the tug of war event.

Well done to all those who took part and cheered from the stands. Thank you to the parents in attendance who witnessed all the entertaining events. And a special congratulations to the four pupils who managed to set new school records!

On Tuesday 16^th and Thursday 18^th May the boys and girls under 14 and under 16 tennis teams, took part in tournaments hosted by ACS.

Fourteen of our pupils took part in the under 14 tournament and a total of over 60 pupils from various international schools competed. Our school achieved one 2^nd place finish in boys’ singles and one 1^st place finish in girls’ doubles.

In the under 16 tournament there was a total of 47 participants from various schools. After a very close final in the girls’ singles our school achieved a 2^nd place finish.

Congratulations to all those who took part and competed so admirably in the tournaments.

We were particularly touched by the thoughtful letter of appreciation that we recently received from the Consul General of Turkiye in Athens-Piraeus. After the tragic earthquake in February, the school held a successful bake sale and made a significant donation of funds and materials to the earthquake relief funds. Please see the image below.

On Tuesday 9th and Thursday 11th May the boys and girls in the school’s tennis club from year 3 all the way up to year 9 took part in a tennis tournament in OAKA.
Over 10 schools took part in the tournament with every pupil playing multiple matches on the day.
The skills our pupils developed throughout the year were on full display with our senior school pupils achieving one 1st place finish and two 3rd place finishes.
All pupils thoroughly enjoyed this tournament and received medals of participation for their outstanding effort.
A special thank you to the coaches for their excellent work with our pupils this academic year.
 

On Thursday 11th May, the Y3 and Y4 pupils enthusiastically took part in the No Finish Line charity race at the Olympic Stadium in Maroussi.

We had 127 runners and walkers, and in the Schools' category, we achieved an incredible 4th place finish. We completed 1220 laps altogether, which amounted to a grand total of 1172km.

Well done to all those who came along and participated with such energy and dynamic positivity for an excellent cause.

On Friday 12^th – Saturday 13^th May, a group of 33 Year 10 pupils had the opportunity to travel down to Messinia in the Peloponnese to see the sights, get a taste of the local area and enjoy each other’s company for their end-of-year trip. They visited the fantastic archaeological site of Ancient Messini, the historic centre of Kalamata and the wonderful fortress in Pylos. Lots of fun was had by all and plenty of lasting memories made.

On Friday 28^th April, the children of our Early Years classes, FS1, FS2 and Reception, took a trip to the Oasis Activity Farm Park for an adventurous day meeting all kinds of creatures great and small. The children loved feeding the curious donkeys, the hungry chickens and cuddly rabbits. They brushed the horses and visited the vegetable garden where they harvested some of the produce straight from the ground.  It is so important that we teach children where their food comes from and that we help them develop respect for all animals too. A great day of learning in the springtime sunshine!

On Tuesday, 9th May, Year 8 went on a Geography trip to the Ellinikon Experience Centre and Park, to study sustainable living and development. This was a great chance to learn about the urban development of our local area, and emphasised their study on sustainable cities earlier in the year. They enjoyed a guided tour of the centre and activities based around the park, with a focus on how the former airport space is environmentally friendly and going to be used for the people of Athens in the future. The students left a great impression of the school on this trip thanks to their excellent behaviour.