August 2024 | The Marian Chronicles

August Month

Dear Parents,

As we step into August, Sancta Maria is abuzz with excitement and activities that mark significant milestones in our school community.

July was a month of achievements and memorable events. We successfully held the Investiture Ceremony, where we elected our new Student Council. This event underscored our commitment to nurturing leadership skills and a sense of responsibility among our students.

Our Alumni Meet was a heartwarming success, filled with joyous reunions and cherished classroom memories. It was truly inspiring to see our former students reconnect and share their remarkable journeys since graduating.

We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dhruthee and Mohineesh, who represented Sancta Maria at the ISP MUN at UC Berkeley. Their participation in this prestigious event exemplifies the global perspective and competitive spirit we strive to cultivate in our students.

These events and achievements reflect the dedication of our teachers and the relentless drive of our students. As we continue this journey together, we look forward to more such enriching experiences and successes.

Ms Hema Sanjay,
Principal
Sancta Maria International School, Hyderabad

In the Spotlight

Investiture Ceremony

Our budding leaders took their oaths during the Investiture Ceremony. They pledged to serve with integrity, compassion, and commitment, embodying true leadership by caring for their community. Congratulations to our new leaders!

Alumni Meet 2024

Our Alumni Meet 2024 was a heartwarming event filled with laughter, nostalgia, and camaraderie. Alumni reconnected, shared memories, and celebrated their journeys. It was wonderful to see them back on campus, reminiscing and rekindling the Marian spirit.

ISP MUN at UC Berkeley

Dhruthi and Mohineesh excelled at the ISP MUN Summer Camp at UC Berkeley. They engaged in intensive research, connected with peers, and participated in a Crisis Simulation on aid to Ukraine. This experience inspired them to seek more international opportunities.

Happenings in the School

Lit Sanctum

Our senior Marians celebrated Lit Sanctum, showcasing their literary talents in various events. The grand finale featured Pictionary, Dramatic Monologue, and a Literary Rapid Fire round, highlighting their literary prowess.

Words Fray

Words Fray, the first inter-house competition of the academic year, showcased exceptional skills and enthusiasm. Aquila emerged as the winner, with participants honoured with trophies and certificates. Congratulations to all participants and winners!

Field Trip to Shilparamam

Our primary school students enjoyed their day at Shilparamam, discovering traditional crafts and our rich cultural heritage. They shared stories that sparked curiosity and deepened their understanding of diversity.

Mystery Readers

Involving parents as Mystery Readers made a significant impact on our Early Years learners, fostering connections and promoting a love of literature. These sessions ignited curiosity and spread happiness among our young learners.

Laurels

Aryan

Congratulations to Aryan for securing second place at the 13th Inter-District Level Taekwondo Championship! We are incredibly proud of your hard work and achievement.

Manogna

Manogna sprinted her way to a silver medal in the under-16 400 meters and a bronze in the under-16 100 meters at the 3rd Charminar Challenge Khelo Hyderabad Athletic Championship 2024. Applause for her amazing achievements!

Rachana

Rachana achieved the silver medal in the District Level Taekwondo Championship 2024. Her dedication and hard work have truly paid off.

Ahan

Ahan won a gold medal in the under-12 300m race and a bronze medal in the under-12 400m race at the 3rd Charminar Challenge Khelo Hyderabad Athletic Championship 2024. Your success is an inspiration to all of us, Ahan!

Niketan

Niketan secured a silver medal in the Under-12 Boys' 200m race at the 3rd Charminar Challenge Khelo Hyderabad Athletic Championship 2024. Good job, Niketan! Continue to shine!

Student Council

Abhinav, Head Student 2024-25

“Sancta Maria stands out for its inclusive environment and application-based teaching, which foster holistic growth. From my first day here, I’ve felt supported and valued. The dedication of our teachers and the kindness of the non-teaching staff make every moment special. The lifelong bonds I’ve formed and the values I’ve learned fill me with immense pride and gratitude to be a Sancta Marian. As Head Student, I am committed to leading with integrity and compassion, ensuring that every student feels heard and valued.

Ritvik, Head Student 2024-25

“I love Sancta Maria for the way it turns dreams into reality. The nurturing environment, the unwavering support from teachers, friends, and staff, and the strong sense of community inspire me every day. Being a part of this school for 13 years has been a transformative journey filled with pride, joy, and heartfelt gratitude. It’s more than a school; it’s a place where I’ve grown and where my aspirations have flourished. As Head Student, I am dedicated to leading by example, fostering a spirit of excellence, and supporting my fellow students in achieving their dreams.

Houses

Aquila

I am Kushi, honoured to serve as the Prefect of the esteemed Aquila House. Our vibrant blue colour embodies wisdom, calmness, and inspiration, while our mighty eagle symbol represents honesty, bravery, courage, and unity.

As we embark on this new academic year, I pledge to preside over all house meetings and ensure our active participation in various school events and competitions. Last year, we earned the title of House of the Year by achieving the most school points, a testament to our unwavering commitment and dedication.

I am committed to fostering an environment that nurtures confidence and instills a strong sense of social and environmental responsibility in every member of Aquila House.

Draco

My name is Sharvi, and I'm in Grade 5A. I’m super excited to be the Prefect for Draco House this year. Our house symbol, the dragon, represents wisdom, power, and good luck in Chinese culture. Just like our dragon, we aim to be wise, strong, and lucky.

Our slogan is "We got the fire in the belly," showing our strength and energy. Draco House colours are green and white, embodying our vibrant spirit.

As the prefect, my job is to make sure Draco excels in everything, from discipline and creativity to winning the house cup. Last year, we won many interhouse competitions like Contentio Mathematica and even the grand house cup!

We are all about school spirit, cheering loudly for our friends during events. I want Draco to be a house everyone looks up to. With teamwork, active participation, and dedication, I hope to inspire everyone to do their best.

Go Draco!

Leo

I’m Khushi from Grade 5C. I’m thrilled to be the Prefect for Leo House this year. Our house symbol, the lion, represents strength and courage. Just like our lion, we aim to take bold steps, lead with confidence, and inspire others.

Our motto is “Rock N Roar,” reflecting our vibrant and energetic spirit. Leo House’s colours are black, yellow, and white, symbolising our pride and unity.

As the prefect, my job is to lead house activities, organise events, and represent Leo House in school competitions. Last year, we have been recognised as the best house twice!

Our house spirit is all about creating a supportive and energetic environment where we can thrive. I plan to keep a suggestion box to give our learners a voice, ensuring their ideas and concerns are heard. My goal is to help my peers solve minor problems independently and uphold the values of good behaviour and discipline.

Let’s make Leo House a shining example for others!

Taurus

My name is Avik, and I'm in Grade 5E, excited to be the Prefect for Taurus House this year. Our house symbol, the bull, represents strength and determination. Just like our bull, we aim to charge forward with full energy and discipline.

Our motto is "Full Charge!" which reflects our vibrant and determined spirit. Taurus House colours are red, white, and black, symbolising our passion and unity.

As the Prefect, my job is to lead house activities, organise events, and represent Taurus House in school competitions. This year, we aim to make our mark and achieve great success.

By supporting each other, we hope to win the House of the Year and create a strong sense of community.

Safeguarding

Why do children reveal abuse?

There are lots of reasons why a child or young person might to tell someone they’re being abused, including:

realizing the abuse is wrong
not being able to cope any more
the abuse getting worse
wanting to protect other children
wanting the abuser to be punished
trusting someone enough to tell them
someone asks them directly.

It can be very hard for them to open up about what’s happened to them. They might be worried about the consequences or that nobody will believe them. They might have told someone before and nothing was done to help them. Sometimes they might not know what’s happening to them is abuse and struggle to share what they’re feeling. Some children don’t reveal they’re being abused for a long time, some never tell anyone.

If a child is in immediate danger, call the Child helpline: 1098

What to say to a child and how to respond

Listen carefully to what they’re saying Be patient and focus on what you’re being told. Try not to express your own views and feelings. If you appear shocked or as if you don’t believe them it could make them stop talking and take back what they’ve said.
Give them the tools to talk If they’re struggling to talk to you use simple prompts to help them share what’s happening and how they’re feeling.
Let them know they’ve done the right thing by telling you Reassurance can make a big impact. If they’ve kept the abuse a secret it can have a big impact knowing they’ve shared what’s happened.
Tell them it’s not their fault Abuse is never a child’s fault. It’s important they hear, and know, this.
Say you’ll take them seriously They may have kept the abuse secret because they were scared they wouldn’t be believed. Make sure they know they can trust you and you’ll listen and support them.
Don’t confront the alleged abuser Confronting the alleged abuser could make the situation worse for the child.
Explain what you’ll do next For younger children, explain you’re going to speak to someone who will be able to help. For older children, explain you’ll need to report the abuse to someone who can help.
Report what the child has told you as soon as possible Report as soon after you’ve been told about the abuse so the details are fresh in your mind and action can be taken quickly. It can be helpful to take notes as soon as you’ve spoken to the child. Try to keep these as accurate as possible.