Student's photographic skills recognised by the University of Hong Kong

Congratulations need to be extended to Annie Lye (12F) who has achieved great success in a recent prestigious photography competition entitled "Celebrations”. This was organized by the HKU Museum Society to commemorate the university’s centenary. Both amateur and professional photographers were invited to submit their best shots on several themes. Out of 733 submissions the best 100 were selected for exhibition. This selection process was blind so the Judges had no idea who the photographers were.

Four of Annie photographs were selected for the exhibition which was opened by the Vice Chancellor of HKU, Professor Tsui Lap Chee and his wife, Mrs Ellen Tsui, on October 11, 2011. To see Annie’s work framed next to with other wonderfully composed photographs was visually stunning. The tall exhibition space was decorated by a large art/ikibana installation by the famous artist, Masayo Mizukami. Annie also aided on the construction of this piece.

Annie says “I am thrilled to have been involved in this event.
It has been a very encouraging and educational experience for me to see my work displayed against the work of established photographic experts. It was also really inspiring to be able to meet with them and talk to them. I look forward to continuing to develop my photography skills”.

Annie’s winning pieces are attached for your viewing. They were shot in Baiwan on last year’s CAS week Trip and in Portugal during her summer holiday.

Morning…here
Day of Fury…here
Baroque Style…here
Portugal (Judge's Choice award)…here

Fleming House staff love the dominant red colour of “Day of Fury” so much, (the subject is spent firecrackers after a celebration), that they have asked Annie to donate us a framed copy for the Fleming House office wall. Well, we are the red house after all.

Well done Annie.

Mrs. Worthington and Mr. Tudor – Senior Head and Head of Fleming House

Letter from the Japan Consulate / CNN report from Island School

I am sure that you remember about the Japan Week which involved students, teachers, non-teaching staff and parents. Thank you again for your generosity. Now, all the messages have been received by Education department in Ibaraki prefecture. I am pleased to let you know that Island School has received a letter of appreciation by Consulate General of Japan in Hong Kong. I would like to share this news with the Island School community.

On the 11th March, 2011, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck Japan, triggering a tsunami with waves up to 10 meters, taking away over 15,000 innocent lives. In response to this tragic incident, the Island School Japanese Community came together in effort of relief support. We understand the magnitude of this tragedy, not just for the lives that were taken away, but also for the loved ones left behind in pain and grief. The Japanese Community responded immediately in an effort to raise awareness throughout Island School. Several Japanese lunch stalls were set up across several days, along with a dress casual day held in remembrance of those who have passed away. In addition messages to support those in Japan, were written and sent to the areas struck by the disaster. With the enthusiastic support of Island School students, teachers and faculty members, we were able to raise a substantial amount of money for the aftermaths of the earthquake.

On the 4th October, the Japanese Community of Island School was invited to the Japanese Embassy in recognition of our efforts in support relief. The students were all very nervous as the formality of the event was beyond their expectations. However, the ceremony went on smoothly and flawlessly. On behalf of the Island School Japanese Community, Island School students Karin Yamauchi 13W , Frances Cassidy 13D, Ryosuke Hoshiyama 12N and Go Suzuki 12N were awarded appreciation certificates in recognition and gratitude of those Japanese citizens whom were affected by the tragic disaster.

Madoka Rei - Teacher of Japanese

CNN report from Island School on the passing of Steve Jobs…here

Nansen Biathlon and Opening of the Textiles Room

On Tuesday 20th September Nansen held their annual sponsored biathlon in memory of Amy Coxall and Gui Vezzaro. This involved members of the house participating in pairs, or as an individual, to complete the run to 2nd Pagoda, Bowen Road (2.5km) and 16 lengths. There were some great performances by the students and staff and results will be announced at a later date. We were particularly pleased to see so many of 7N participating as individuals.

Following the biathlon we had the official opening of the new Textiles room which is in memory of Amy Coxall as this was one of the subjects she was passionate about. Amy’s parents and brother Josh attended along with staff and students. There is a lovely picture of Amy in the room and a large decorative glass panel containing one of Amy’s designs. Simply a great room, airy and light….all the working conditions Amy loved. Thanks to Claire Tait and ESF for all their hard work in creating this new Textiles environment. Existing funds and money raised through the biathlon will be used to purchase other pieces of equipment required for this room.

When you visit school please take some time to view the new bench to the right of the main entrance. A huge thank you to Matt Smith and the Technology department for the time spent designing and making the bench in memory of Amy and Gui. Students, staff and members of Amy’s family have also decorated pebbles/stones which are underneath the bench. This area is in front of Amy’s tree which was planted last year and is continuing to flourish.

All in all a really positive lovely afternoon and celebration in memory of Amy and Gui.

Amy and Gui, you are missed but always in our hearts and thoughts.

Please see Nansen Biathalon’s photograph album...here

Please see Amy's Memorial 2011-12’s photograph album...here

Cath Hopkins - Senior Head of Nansen