Page 13 - Brave New World

THE ENGLISH SCHOOL MA GA ZINE 2021

Simoni Stefanou 3B DEPUTY
HEAD BOY

TOGAY ATA GOKALP 7G
Through my years in The English School I faced
many challenges but also had many successes.
When I entered the school, I didn’t have many
expectations. That was when my first challenge
began: trying to keep up with the pace of
being an English School student, one who
was expected to thrive and take education
very seriously. However, this challenge
actually turned into my greatest success, as
everyone around me in the school helped me
to overcome any difficulties, both the teachers
who always looked after us, and fellow
students, offering camaraderie in difficult
times. That was when I really began to feel a
part of the school community. Even though it
was hindered by COVID, I saw students
attending online lessons with the same
motivation that they did when they attended
school physically, and in all honesty, this pushed
me to do even more. The same could be said
for the teachers who did everything to
HEAD BOY accommodate us even if they did not see us
face to face. Thus, the biggest thing I gained
from the school was the ambition and
ANGELOS NIKIFOROS THEODOROU 7G determination to fight against any difficulties
This year was a period of hardships and challenges. Yet in the end, this is what makes our that we face and try to achieve all the goals
community so special: the boldness to face these challenges with utmost dignity and we have set for ourselves, whether it be in
courage. My proudest moment as a student leader however, was when we collectively put school or outside. Quite frankly, this has
our personal challenges aside and were able to be there for those in our society who needed really allowed me to grow as a person and I
it the most. For sure ‘Brexits’, pandemics, lock-down measures and fee-status changes shook have The English School to thank for making
our reality to the core, yet the students never stopped being their brothers’ (and sister‘s!) me who I am today.
keepers. From contributing to charities to being supportive to their peers (the examples are
endless), they showcased that one’s value is not measured in numbers and grades. To my dear
classmates, who I’m certain will grow up to be great lawyers, scientists, doctors, directors, DEPUTY
artists, musicians and anything they put their minds to, I wish to remind you that you should
never stop being a beacon of hope to people who were not as fortunate. I am truly proud to HEAD GIRL
be part of this community, which is full of admirable individuals.
ELVIRA KYRIAKOU 7G

HEAD GIRL The older I get the more I acknowledge how
fortunate I have been to have attended The
English School. The pandemic has helped me,
MIRANDA IRENE HADJIGAVRIEL 7R as it has helped all of us, realize the importance
September 5th, 2014. I can still remember my first day in school. Surrounded by so many of things we previously believed to be
different students in light blue shirts, all of us sitting in the Hall (an unknown building to me insignificant. At the start of year 6 I thought
then, which seemed imposing). I can still remember the Headmaster referring to something that my time at the school was infinite. Little
which seemed to be in a foreign and incomprehensible language at the time: ‘Non sibi sed did I know that human contact would soon student voice
scholae’. Students should be proud to be members of the school and put the school community be cut off. Suddenly, it’s May, end of year 7,
and other people before their own needs. Well, the time has now come, and I can openly longing for more time with my teachers and
admit that, indeed, I could not be more proud to be a member of my school. friends. Their impact on my life has been
The English School has given me much more than a formal education, it has shaped my immense. My teachers have made me love
personality. It has not just given me knowledge but educated me on the wisdom to apply learning and to realize the power of education;
knowledge appropriately. It has encouraged me to explore and embrace life in a place where a gift I will always cherish. My fellow students
thinking is taught. A place which strives to encourage each student to step out of their amaze me - so many kind, unique, hardworking
comfort zone and think outside the box, by introducing them to new dimensions; the Choir, individuals. We have so much to learn from 11
MUN, EYP, DofE, Afternoon Games… I entered as a child and exit as an individual, having each other. For any younger students reading
made life-long friendships, based on trust, respect and unity – all values which were this, promise yourselves you will make the
emphasized throughout our journey at the school. most of your time at our school. Be proactive,
The English School has become a place that I can call my own. The good memories I have be giving, and kind. Keep true to yourselves,
are countless. If I had to choose my top 2, those would be the Maths Trip to London during but at the same time be willing to develop
the summer of our 5th form, and of course the Student Leader elections. Even though the while observing those around you. For any
elections took place in the middle of a pandemic, I was treated with so much love and support, teachers reading this, even if we don’t tell
I was able to help people ‘choose their word and connect with me’. Unfortunately, what followed you enough, you are important to us and we
clipped our wings and prevented us from implementing our plans, but hardships have taught us truly respect and admire you. I am beyond
resilience and we have learned how to look for silver linings in every cloud that comes our way. grateful to our school for shaping me into the
I now realise that the cliché ‘time flies’ is indeed true! I really can’t believe how the time has person I am today. Let’s start living each day
finally come to hear the last 13:35 bell. Time does fly. So, make the most of every day and as if another global pandemic is right
take my word for it: You are going to really miss it when it ends. around the corner!