Risk-taking and Caring
These past few weeks, we’ve been inspired by the courage and heart our students have shown as they’ve stepped into the spotlight, or willed themselves to overcome their hesitation or anxieties, alongside their peers. It is truly inspirational to see children surprise themselves after taking a risk when attempting something that they don’t believe they’ll succeed at, or that they’ve found difficult in the past, only to find that they can manage more than they ever thought possible - to the point where they find that they actually enjoy the feeling they get from the process of learning.
At ISA, one of our core values (taken from the IB Learner Profile) is that we strive to be risk-takers. Whether a child is confronted with the challenge of scaling the climbing wall, performing a musical number, calculating the amount of money raised in a lemonade or popcorn sale, speaking in a new language, finding a group of friends to spend recess with, or any number of other things they are asked to do each day at ISA, we know that the process of learning can be a time of vulnerability. This is why we place such importance on providing children with the support and the sense of safety they need to challenge themselves in order to develop as risk-takers.
However, it must be pointed out that this risk-taking doesn’t always mean leaping into the unknown by oneself. Often, it means saying “yes” to trying something new in front of others. From the joyful collaboration of the Preschool and KG–G2 Sports Days, to the confident voices of our Grade 3 students in The Aberdeen Big Sing 2025, to the impressive teamwork of the Grade 5 Band and to the Grade 2 students learning to be at ease around the animals at Farm Stop, one theme has been clear: learning and performing often takes place in a communal context.
What makes these learning events so impactful isn't just individual risk-taking. It’s the caring environment that surrounds each child. At ISA, students are encouraged and supported by their classmates, their teachers and the broader school community. Together, we create a space where it's safe to try, to falter and to rise. Whether performing in the band, singing as a choir, engaging in athletic teamwork or learning outdoors, our students are discovering that risk-taking, when grounded in mutual support and trust, leads to accomplishments they may have once thought were out of reach. We’re so proud of our students, and grateful to all of you, for nurturing this culture of care and courage. It’s through this combination that we see true growth, not just academically, but as global citizens.
Upcoming dates to keep in mind
Please check the calendar entries for times/details.
2 June - Preschool trip to Drum Castle
4 June - G3-G5 Sports Day (1:00pm, lower astroturf pitch, weather permitting)
5 June - G4 French trip to Almondine
6 June - Parent coffee: G5 to G6 transition
6 June - ‘The Litter Muncher’ performance (KG & G1 at the Friday assembly, 2:00pm)
10 June - Preschool End of Year Celebration
10 June - Grade 1 trip to Drum Castle
11 June - Veg Growers’ Club Plant Sale (3:00pm, front of school)
13 June - Grade 5 Moving On Ceremony (8:30am, QET)
13 June - Final assembly of the year (1:00pm, QET)
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