Around January 2001 I was working in the North West of England and decided to do something a little ‘different’ after 21 years teaching in State Secondary Schools. I spotted a job as Head of PE at the British School, Riyadh (now called the British International School Riyadh). The advert specifically asked for a specialism in Swimming – which was right up my street.
I sent in my application, not for one minute thinking it would come to fruition – normally people like me just didn’t get breaks like that! However within a week I received an email asking me to interview in London, the following week. I met with the Principal, Patrick Bloomfield, had an interview and made a presentation. A week later, I received the email which was to change my life completely. Mr Bloomfield offered me the post on an initial 2 year contract, with additional responsibility for coaching the British School Barracudas swim team.
My first year in the school was very busy (in fact this was an omen for the following 14 years!). I absolutely loved working there – the parents, children and staff were all great and coaching the swim team, for me, was like Manna from Heaven!
Around October 2002, a member of my department, Lucy Ryder, approached me with a request. She had received an email about a new competition which was going to be held at St Christophers School, Bahrain. The Head of PE at St Christophers, Alistair Bond, planned to have a 2 day competition with 5 sports which would involve schools who were members of the British Schools of the Middle East organisation. I explained to Lucy that this would be a great opportunity for the children at BSR as competitive opportunities were quite limited within Riyadh. I offered to let her lead the tour and organise the logistics for the team.
I don’t actually remember too much about the first one, other than it was a lot more compact and simple, but that the level of enjoyment from all concerned was extremely high. I do remember being surprised that the level of competition was a lot higher than I had expected. Being isolated in Riyadh it was difficult to get a picture of how we rated as a school. These first Games came as a bit of a shock, as I don’t think we won any of the tournaments. Even swimming, where I thought we would dominate, we came 3rd. This experience gave us a great target to set for ourselves and became the benchmark for all schools across the Middle East. The legend and folklore of the BSME Games was born!
The following year was again held in Bahrain. The number of schools increased from 4 at the first games to 7 in the second. Equally exciting and equally challenging.
However, Alistair Bond’s vision was that, like the Olympics, the Games would be held in different schools in different countries. For 2005 other schools were asked to volunteer to take up the proverbial torch and host the Games in a different country. By this time I had moved job to the British International School Cairo – a much smaller school with 2 form entry. I eagerly awaited the news to find out where I could take my first Egypt based team to experience this great event. However, nobody stepped forward and the Games never took place that year.
Alistair once again stepped forward and offered to host his 3rd Games at St Christophers in 2006. However, the clear message was that someone else was expected to take the baton the following year. Part of an experience like this has to be sharing the responsibility and the load. Once again my team were overawed by the standard of performance from other schools and struggled valiantly to do their best. Comparatively, as a 2 form entry school competing against some bigger giants we did very well and came 6th out of 12 schools. At the end of the 2006 Games the venue for the first non-Bahrain Games was announced – DESS Dubai were to host the 2007 Games.
In 2007 I took a stronger team to the DESS Dubai Games. Despite being a smaller school, we won our first BSME trophy – a 3rd place in the swimming beating much bigger schools including DESS Dubai! This was my first big personal success at the Games. An interesting twist for me at these Games was that, in the meantime I had been appointed as the next Head of PE at DESS Dubai, due to take position the following September. I was determined to higher my aspirations and go for my first number one position the following year.
Our first BSME Trophy 2007 Basketball 2008 Dubai English Speaking School Parents
That year it was decided that the Games should run for 3 days instead of 2 in order for children to be able to recover in between each sport and for them to relax a little more.
In 2008 the Games moved to Doha and were a joint collaboration between Al Khor, DESS Doha, Doha College and Park House. This was probably my favourite Games as it was the first time I had taken a team from DESS Dubai. The Games were based at Al Khor which was a 40 minute drive from the hotel, but gave us time to mentally prepare on the way there and reflect (and sleep!) on the way back. This was the first time I had taken a team from one of the ‘big guns’ – DESS Dubai and I had high expectations of the team of 26 children who went with me and my team of 4 staff. In particular I had coached the swimming team, the athletics team and the basketball team myself and so my reputation was at stake! First up was the swimming. I had coached the DESS team throughout that year and they had made great progress. Again, I did not know what our standards were like compared to other schools outside Dubai. It was an exciting meet with some outstanding performances. At the end of the meet, the scores were announced and we were pleased to hear we had gained 2nd place and a silver trophy to start off our campaign. However, this was not to be – overnight the scores were recounted by the organiser and it was found that one of our relay scores was wrong – we had been given 14 points instead of 24. This meant that we had actually gained the first place position and our first Gold Trophy at the BSME Games.
The rest of the 2008 Games went equally well for us. The following day, in football we gained a 3rd place and in netball another 1st place. 2 more trophies for the cabinet. On the final day Athletics was completed in the morning. DESS had an excellent time, including BSME records in 60m sprint and High Jump. Overall we again managed to gain first place. Total so far, 3 golds and 1 bronze. But what about the overall trophy? This was the big one for me. To achieve this, would be the ultimate reward.
The last tournament was the basketball. We had calculated that, in order to win overall, we had to get at least 7th place. This might seem a fairly easy task, but at that time basketball was not played in Dubai and many of the other BSME schools played this competitively throughout the year. As coach of our basketball team, the pressure was on.
We eventually ended up playing Park House for the 7th/8th place playoff. We HAD to win in order to get the overall trophy. Well I’m happy to say that we did it, and the Games ended well for us as overall winners for the first time. Returning to Dubai was a great experience, with parents and children waiting at the airport with banners and streamers and lots of smiles.
(A little known fact from that year is that I had made a pact with myself before I travelled to Doha that year – if we won the overall trophy, I would always wear something red to work every day until I left the school. I have kept to this promise and still wear at least some red, somewhere in my uniform every day).
In 2009 the Games moved back to Dubai and were hosted by JESS Ranches. JESS Jumeirah, their sister school also took part for the first time and this became ‘their’ Games. I say this because, for the first and only time ever they won all 5 of the individual tournaments. They had a squad of highly skilled all-rounders who dominated proceedings throughout. This set the bar for future Games to come.
In 2010 we had, probably, the most memorable games so far – the one that everyone still talks about. Modern English School Cairo hosted and participated for the first time ever, and didn’t they do things in style. The 2 things which stick out from that Games were the trip to the Pyramids, plus the hotel – the brand new Dusit Thani – it was awesome. Ed Price was the Head of PE there who was also noted as starting a new trend. His wife had a baby just prior to the Games. Since then, this has happened 2 more times with organisers of the Games – so be warned!
For 2011, the Games returned to Doha again, and Al Khor bravely volunteered to host once more. Another smoothly run machine throughout. The key thing which was introduced at those Games was a focus on international culture and history. There were many displays of dance, theatre and music throughout the event to keep the athletes entertained.
2012 saw a new approach. The Games took place in Dubai again, but this time they were hosted by a company called the Onion Bag (slang term for goal nets apparently). It went back to a very simple approach with less ‘bling’ but enjoyable nonetheless. However, it was decided that for the following year, the Games should return into the hands of another school and everyone wondered who that might be.
The biggest news for me in the 2013 Games was that my Headteacher, Dave Hammond had ‘kindly’ volunteered for us to host again. (Headteachers seem to have a habit of doing this!). I have to say it was an enormous challenge for us to project manage such a large event and I saw for the first time what it is like from the other side of the fence. It was an extremely challenging year, but we formed a team of staff and parents who worked extremely well together to produce an event which we were all proud of. The cream on the cake was that we also won the overall trophy.
In 2014, similar to the MES Games, Brighton College Abu Dhabi volunteered to put themselves on the map with their first ever experience of the Games – both competing and organising. Thrown into the challenge was the fact that the Head of PE, Simon Crane had only started the job in September and was on a very steep learning curve. He came to us for a morning’s consultation and to get up to speed with this behemoth which is the BSME Games. Needless to say Simon, and Brighton College did an awesome job which resulted in another memorable event. If I had to say one word which epitomised those Games, it would be ‘posh!’ Oh yes, and yet another baby, Simon’s wife gave birth just before the Games (BSME baby number 2).
So we come to 2015 and what is to be my final Games as I will leave DESS and the Middle East in June this year to return back to the UK. I handed the reins over to my department to lead the DESS team this year as part of the succession process. Although not part of the official DESS touring party, I flew across on Friday to oversee the DESS swim team in their efforts to win the BSME swimming trophy. (This also ensured my claim to have attended all Games so far would be ensured!). I was extremely happy to see that my final involvement in the Games was rewarded with a first place in the swimming - although we were chased very hard by a strong team from St Christophers. Steve Wilkinson from DESS Doha and his team of dedicated staff ran another awesome Games which was well run and will be another Games to remember due to them taking place in the magnificent Aspire Dome complex. The other ‘event’ of the Games was the birth of Steve’s first child – baby Noah. BSME baby number 3!
First place Trophy in Swimming U11 Games, Qatar 2015
In 2009, Dave Rogers, based at the British School Muscat introduced the first ever BSME Swimming Championships. This is not a team event as such, but provides an opportunity for individual swimmers to excel and shine as well as win their own individual medals and ribbons. It was open to swimmers aged from 9 to 18 years old. In 2009 we took a team of 14 swimmers from years 5 and 6 and had a great experience at this event. Since 2009 we have taken an ever increasing number of children to this excellent, well run swim meet. We now also take children from our High School, DESC as well as children from years 2, 3 and 4.
The Championships have developed since the first one in 2009. There is now an under 8 category for younger swimmers to gain their first experience of ‘big swimming’ in a ‘big pool’. It is heartwarming to see children from 7 to 18 years old swimming together, sometimes in the same races and enabling the younger swimmers to see high quality swimming from the older pupils – giving them something to aspire to. Due to the high quality of the event, qualification times have now been introduced to ensure that this is maintained. High points trophies are also now given to the fastest overall swimmers in each category.
The ‘feel’ of the event is a mix of high drama and excitement mixed with a great family atmosphere. Dave Rogers has reliably provided an invaluable experience for all swimmers who attend every year.
One of the challenges which became evident through the early years of the Games was that, as it grew larger and larger, maintaining a consistently high quality and valuable experience became more difficult. The key elements of any quality tournament are good facilities, fair rules and refereeing, clear and realistic guidelines and balanced competition. Above all, consistency and continuity were the key factors in ensuring success.
The 5 sports which Alistair Bond introduced were football for boys, netball for girls and swimming, athletics and basketball for both. In 2007 the hosts suggested dropping basketball and including rugby and in 2008 the hosts suggested dropping basketball and including rounders. Both of these suggestions potentially would have created a number of practical problems and challenges. After numerous emails between myself and the organisers, these ideas were dropped in favour of the original 5 sports. Common sense prevailed. In addition, each year, rules, game times, scoring and other elements varied according to what resources were available and how the organiser wanted to run the event.
In September 2008, I emailed John Alcott, the Chair of the events Committee to request that a conference should be held for all Heads of PE in BSME schools. This would provide an opportunity for discussion and dialogue about how the Games were developing as well as trying to create a standardised handbook with clear guidelines and advice for future organisers of the Games. This would guarantee consistency throughout the Games as well as a fair and well balanced approach.
John was very positive about the idea and could see the need for this in order to ensure that the Games continued to grow and succeed. In April that year the first BSME Heads of PE conference was held in the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, Dubai attended by around 100 delegates from across the region.
There was lots of healthy and vibrant discussion and as a result, the first proper official handbook was produced. This has been reviewed each year and since then has provided an invaluable tool to organisers and team coaches alike.
The conference has developed and changed in a number of ways since 2008. In 2010 it was lengthened to 2 days which included a number of valuable training events with high quality presenters from the UK flying in to lead.
In 2011 it was decided that a smaller steering committee would be formed that would meet each year. This primarily involved the Heads of PE who had either attended most or all Games or had organised the Games themselves. This team of around 12 people meet every year with the Chair of the events committee and review the events which have taken place that year, decide on a calendar for the following year and revise the BSME ‘Bible’ – the handbook.
This is an invaluable event which ensures that BSME sport is constantly being extended and improved.
As the size and range of events continued to grow it became obvious that there was a need for additional help outside school PE Departments. In the BSME Heads of PE conference which took place at JESS Ranches, Dubai, Mark Holness - Head of PE at St Christopher’s Bahrain presented a proposal to the conference. This proposal was that BSME should appoint an individual as an Events Organiser.
The vision was that this person would then assist by overseeing and advising Games organisers who were taking responsibility for BSME sporting events. In this way, there would be one person who would be familiar with all of the logistics and potential challenges which arise each time. The current incumbent, Kate Sutton has been in situ for 2 years and provided invaluable support and assistance at a number of events and has enabled both further expansion and enhancement of the BSME Events to the benefit of even more students across the region.
The current situation has a wide variety of activities including netball, football, cricket, basketball, athletics, swimming and triathlon. In addition, music, performing arts and debating also hold major events through the year. All ages are catered for from age 7 through to age 18 and events are held throughout the Middle Eastern region. BSME provides a truly awesome range of opportunities for children to experience.
At the point of writing, I am 5 days away from attending my final BSME Swimming Championships, 2 months away from attending my final BSME steering committee meeting and 3 months away from returning back to the UK for good.
BSME Games and Swimming will be one of the things which epitomises what school sport in the Middle East is about at its highest level. Having seen it grow from it’s infancy in 2003 to what it has become now has been a great experience and one I am proud of being part of.
I have had a very enjoyable, valuable and rewarding experience in my 14 years in the Middle East. I have been privileged to work alongside so many great teachers and parents. However, above all, the enthusiasm, determination and ultimately the smiles on the faces of the children will be what I remember and value most. These will stay with me for a very long time.
Chris Rowe
Director of Sport 2007 - 2015
DESS Dubai
Head of Primary PE 2004 - 2007
BISC Cairo
Head of PE 2001 - 2004
BISR Saudi Arabia
St Christopher’s School, Bahrain once again hosted the annual BSME U11 football competition for both Girls and Boys on the weekend of 23rd & 24th January.
This year we saw 7 girls teams and 13 boys teams participating in the tournament from 8 schools from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait.
St Christopher's School, Bahrain
British International School Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Nadeen School, Bahrain
Dhahran British Grammar School, Saudi Arabia
This years competition saw all teams playing each other twice before the semi final stage. It was St Christopher's A Team that triumphed over British International School Jeddah in the final, winning 2-1.
Winners: St Christopher's A Team
2nd Place: British International School Jeddah
3rd Place: St Christophers's B Team
St Christopher's School, Baharin
British School of Kuwait
Nadeen School, Bahrain
British International School Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Doha College, Qatar
Kuwait New English School
Dhahran British Grammar School, Saudi Arabia
Compass International School, Al Khor, Qatar
This years competition saw all teams playing in the same group which meant that all schools played at least 12 games in the one day. After some fantastic football, this time it was British International School Jeddah who came away with the winners trophy.
Winners: British International School Jeddah
2nd Place: St Christopher's United Team
3rd Place: St Christopher's Rovers Team
"Thanks again for a great weekend, students loved it!"
"Thank you once again for a fantastic experience and hope to see you again next year"
"It was a brilliant day and one I particularly enjoyed as I score many goals"
" I had so much fun!"
Sherborne School, Qatar
Dumbshow
On the 12th-14th March 2015, Drama enthusiasts from St. Christopher’s School, Dukhan School and Doha College spent the weekend at Sherborne Qatar to enjoy the BSME Drama Festival.
The pupils met on the afternoon of Thursday 12th and embarked upon warm up exercises, which allowed them to share their Drama skills and start to work with pupils from other schools. Paul and Hannah led the workshop, resulting in short and high-energy performances that oddly all seemed to gravitate towards the theme of chicken and KFC!
Staff and students were then treated to the wonderful performance of ‘The Pearl’, by visiting theatre company Dumbshow. These talented actors kept us mesmerized through their engaging and haunting plot, their use of multi-role-playing and their imaginative use of simple props. This inspirational performance concluded an exciting day and set the tone for the work to come.
Friday was a full on theatre extravaganza! Students were divided up into 6 superhero groups (Spiderman, Captain America, Superman, The Hulk, Batman & Iron Man). Each group had a 40-minute workshop with one of the actors and then rotated so that everyone experienced the skills and expertise of the visiting performers. These workshops established the foundation for the performances to come. Workshops included Mask work, Improvisation, Character development, Physical Storytelling, Physical theatre and a Voice workshop. The actors commented on the focus and attention of the pupils, who brought energy and commitment to these exciting activities.
The final hours were spent in four performance groups, led by the actors, preparing for the rehearsals the following day. Each group was given a Grimm’s Fairy Tale to devise from: Little Red Cap, Rapunzel and Hansel & Gretel. Actors, Staff and Students all left Sherborne that night exhausted but elated by the intensity of the day.
Saturday saw the culmination of all the work so far. Each group rehearsed for 4 hours to create a short performance that demonstrated choral speaking, imaginative physicality and characterization developed over the last few days. The performances were highly entertaining and imaginative. They reflected the high standards of the visiting actors and the quality of teamwork generated during the weekend.
Staff and students left the festival having formed new friendships, developed new skills and been reminded of the joy that collaborative Drama brings. Well done to all those who took part … we’ll never look at a chicken nugget in the same way again!
The Performing Arts Festival was hosted by Brighton College, Abu Dhabi . This year 58 students, 13 - 18 years, from 4 schools participated:
The theme of the festival this year was 1001 Arabian Nights which was aimed at celebrating the rich vibrancy and multicultural heritage of the Arabian Nights' Tales. The students performed a variety of devised physical theatre pieces which used the tales as a stimulus. The drama workshops and performances were facilitated by practitioners from Frantic Assembly theatre company in the UK. Workshops in drama, music and dance culuminated in a final performance to invited guests and delegates.
Described as "The vibrant and Viseral Frantic Assembly" by The Independent.
Frantic Assembly create thrilling, energetic and unforgettable thatre. The company attracts new and young audiences with work that reflects contemporary culture. Vivid and dynamic, Frantic Assembly's unique physical style combines movement, design, music and text. Having toured extensively throughout the UK, Frantic Assembly has built an enviable reputation as one of the most exciting companies in the country. The company has also performed, created and collaborated on 30 different countries accross the world.
| Morning | Afternoon | Evening | |
| 6th March | Arrival | Arrival | Welcome & Social Event |
| 7th March | Workshops | Workshops | Social Event |
| 8th March | Workshops | Performances | Awards & Dinner |
The camaradarie and teamwork throughout the festival was simply amazing. There is also a gallery of photographs and video clips viewable on this website.
The Young Musicians of the Gulf competition, organised by St Christopher's School, Bahrain and in its 16th year, attracted 111 musicians from 10 schools in Kuwait, Doha, Bahrain and the UAE.
In the lead up to the Grand Final, all the musicians had the opportunity to attend Master Classes led by each of the distinguished adjudicators – this year we were thrilled to be joined by conductor and examiner Richard Dickins, composer Christopher Adey, and flautist and teacher Atarah Ben-Tovim.
The judges noted that they were particularly impressed with the level of musical talent which was apparent throughout the competition, and the dedication of all the performers. A special mention was also given to the show of support and mutual respect that was clearly evident between all of the contestants throughout the competition.
1. St Christopher's School, Bahrain
2. The British School, Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi
3. Dubai English Speaking College
4. Sharjah English Speaking School, UAE
5. Dubai College
6. British School of Kuwait
7. Brighton College, Abu Dhabi
8. Doha British School, Qatar
9. The English College, Dubai
10. Jumeirah English Speaking School
Three music experts were flown in to judge the competition, this year we were thrilled to be joined by conductor and examiner Richard Dickins, composer Christopher Adey, and flautist and teacher Atarah Ben-Tovin.
In the lead up to the Grand Final, all the musicians had the opportunity to attend Master Classes led by each of the distinguished adjudicators.
The judges noted that they were particularly impressed with the level of musical talent which was apparent throughout the competition, and the dedication of all the performers. A special mention was also given to the show of support and mutual respect that was clearly evident between all of the contestants throughout the competition.
The BSME Young Musicians of the Gulf (YMOG) 2015 competition came to a spectacular close on Thursday evening at the Sofitel, with the judges crowning the winner in front of a VIP audience. The British ambassador to Bahrain, Iain Lindsay, presented the winner with his trophy.
Xiaolin Zhang from the Horizon School of Dubai, wowed both the judges and the audience with his impressive piano rendition of Chopin’s Funeral March Sonata No. 2, in B Minor Op.35, and the Grande Valse Brillante Op.18, also Chopin. This is Xiaolin’s second consecutive year at winning the title of ‘Young Musician of the Gulf’, an achievement made even greater given his young age of only 9.5 years. Despite being the youngest of the finalists in the competition, which accepts entrants between the ages of 8 to 18, who are judged equally without any consideration of age, Zhang triumphed over singers, a cellist and tabla player in the final after performing two pieces by Chopin, including the downbeat Piano Sonata No 2, commonly known as The Funeral March. That mature repertoire is something the young musician is eager to expand and he dreams one day of being a professional pianist.
Hai Wei Li, from the British School of Kuwait, was the Runner Up with his beautiful renditions of Beethoven’s Allegro from Sonata Op. 10 No.2 and Chopin’s Fantasie-Impromtu in C # minor Op. 66, as well as Gershwin’s Prelude No.1 on the Piano.
Winning Soloist: Xiaolin Zhang (Horizon School, Dubai)
Runner-Up Soloist: Hai Wei Li (The British School of Kuwait)
Ensemble Winner: Pearl Fishers Duet (Dubai College)
Young Composer Award: Niki Moosavi (British School Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi)
Owerkowicz Bequest Award (Awarded to the Most Promising Bahrain Based Musician): Michel Toutoungy (St Christopher’s School, Bahrain)
Knights Bequest (Awarded to the Most Promising Musician 15 years or younger): Sriram Venkatesh (St Christopher’s School, Bahrain)
Piano Award: Matthew Smeda (Jumeirah English Speaking School, Dubai)
Woodwind Award: William Caley (St Christopher’s School, Bahrain)
Brass Award: Enya Rice (British School Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi)
Vocal Award: Zahid Siddiqui (Dubai College)
Bowed String Award: Joon Woo Jeong (Dubai College)
The BSME U11 Football Tournament was hosted by St Christopher's School, Bahrain on 24 & 25 January 2014. The events were very well organised and excellent feedback was received.
"We played so well as a team"
"I really enjoyed the competition because it was really well run and some great footy was played" (players' comments)
"I was thrilled that all of the hard work in training paid off" (a coach's comment)
The girls played some great football and had a marvelous first day, with 5 teams competing:
British International School Jeddah A & B teams
Dhahran British Grammar School
St Christopher's A & B teams.
Dharan British Grammar School topped the table with St Christopher's A team a close second. The final ended up as a draw between these two teams with St Christopher's winning 2-1 on penalties. St Christopher's B team won the plate final beating British International School Jeddah A team by 2-1.
Well done to all girls who competed.
On Saturday the Boys Competition took place with 10 teams and 2 pools.
POOL A
British School of Kuwait
British International School Jeddah B
Dharan British Grammar School
St Christopher's A team
St Christopher's C team
POOL B
British International School Jeddah A team
British International School Jeddah C team
British International School Al Khobar
Doha College
St Christopher's B team
St Christopher's A team were top of Pool A followed by British School of Jeddah B team.
The British School of Jeddah A team topped Pool B closely followed by Doha College.
After 6 hours of fantastic football and a cracking final, Doha College were crowned the champions after beating British School of Jeddah A team 3-0 in the final.
Well done to all boys who competed.
Aldar Academies hosted the BSME 2015 Junior Games at the New York Abu Dhabi University campus from March 12 to 14.
The BSME Games is running for the 12th year and has become one of the most-awaited games on the calendar of British Schools across the Middle East. Over 300 children from 10 participating schools across the GCC traveled to Abu Dhabi, accompanied by teachers and spectators to compete in a range of sports which include football, basketball, athletics, netball and swimming.
The schools taking part in the event included:-
1. Al Mushrif Primary School, Abu Dhabi
2. The Pearl Primary School,Abu Dhabi
3. Al Yasmina School, Abu Dhabi
4. Al Rabeeh School, Abu Dhabi
5. Doha College, Qatar
6. Kuwait English School,
7. British School Kuwait
8. British International School Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
9. British School Muscat, Oman
10.Cairo English School, Egypt
The Abu Dhabi 2015 BSME Games hoped to highlight that children play sport for different reasons—because it is fun, because the glory of pitting our skills against those of well-matched opponents is exhilarating, because we value our relationships with teammates or teachers, or because we feel the personal accomplishment of pushing our physical and emotional limits. Whatever the reason, true sport—that is, sport played hard, fair, and clean—fosters personal growth and social goods. In sum, sport adds value to our lives which the Aldar Academies hosted BSME Games fostered.
Furthermore the Abu Dhabi 2015 BSME Games highlighted the importance message that children have to be active every day. Sport and physical activity stimulates growth and leads to improved physical and emotional health. Today, research shows that the importance of sport and physical activity in children is stronger than ever. For example, medical researchers have observed that highly active children are less likely to suffer from obesity, diabetes and coronary heart disease later in life. With such prominent social and health issue affecting the UAE this Aldar Academies BSME Games is supported by the public health awareness campaign ‘Diabetes-Knowledge-Action’
Robert Kirkland, event organiser and Head of P.E. at the Aldar Academies Al Mushrif Primary School stated “It is a real honour to host these Games. In addition to the wonderful opportunity for our schools to be involved in this renowned event; to make lasting friendships; to benefit from the remarkable facilities at NYU and to simply play sport at a high level.
There is a strong emotional link with the BSME Games. The Principal of the Pearl School, Alistair Bond,
actually started this event back in 2003 when he was a PE teacher working at an international school in Bahrain. I think it is fair to say that since those first games the event has developed and grown beyond his imagination. He is as delighted as I am that twelve years on we are able to host the event and capitalise on the remarkable facilities and resources available across Aldar Academies and here in Abu Dhabi.
Onto the Abu Dhabi 2015 BSME Games itself.
Despite one or two issues at immigration all 10 schools where present in the impressive NYU gymnasium for the opening ceremony. Egyptian professional triathlete Omar Nour, athlete ambassador at the event encapsulated students, teachers, parents and guests with a remarkable speech that, emphasised the importance of “giving their best”.
The students took his advice seriously, the games serving up some thrilling contests across the weekend. However in line with the competitive nature of the BSME Games there had to be winners and runners up.
Congratulations must go to Doha College who won both the Basketball and Netball.
Al Yasmina won both the Athletics and Swimming and British School of Jeddah won the Football.
All the sporting competitions where played to the highest standard and fair play and sporting etiquette where seen throughout by both student and teachers highlighting the positive values on display.
All five sporting competitions where wonderful spectacles of all that is was great about sport, engaging competition, sportsmanship, victory, defeat and camaraderie amongst the students.
1st Place: Doha College, Qatar
2nd Place: Al Yasmina
3rd Place; British School of Muscat, Oman
Overall it was all smiles for Doha College after being crowned champions of the Under-11 BSME Games over the weekend.
The Qatar-based school accumulated a total of 47 points, having finished first in basketball and netball, as well as runners-up in swimming, athletics and football. UAE’s Al Yasmina finished second with 38 points, while British School of Muscat completed the podium with 34 points.
The closing ceremony marked the end of the three-day competition at New York University Abu Dhabi, which attracted more than 300 students from 10 schools from across the Middle East.
John Tapster, head of primary PE at Doha College, lauded his team’s efforts.
“It’s a fantastic achievement. It wasn’t just about winning, it was about taking part. This is something that will live with them forever,” he said. “I was impressed with their commitment and attitude throughout. They never gave up and have been a real credit to the school. They can be proud of their achievements.”
Organiser Robert Kirkland, head of PE at Al Mushrif primary school, which finished fourth, was delighted with the level of competition.
“It was great to see so many students do so well over the three days,” he said. “The level of competition was very high in all disciplines, which was great to see, and hopefully they can learn from this experience.”
He added: “I would like to thank the National Ambulance, H20 Swim Club, Imperial College London Diabetes Cente, New York University and the 55 staff from Aldar Academies for making this a huge success.”
The 15th Young Musicians of the Gulf Competition was held at St Christopher's School, Bahrain. As a 'celebration of young musical talent' from around the Gulf it has grown into a premier musical event for young people in the region. This year, 8 schools from around the Gulf and 115 musicians participated in the competition.
On the opening day of the Competition, all soloists, who ranged from 8 to 18, performed for the four distinguished adjudicators, Richard Dickins, Michael Hankinson, Chloe Hanslip and Wendy Holland, who flew in from the UK especially for the event. The adjudicators represented a broad spectrum of musical experience and skills and were extremely impressed by the high standard of the performances throughout all stages of the Competition. Performances ranged from instrumental pieces on Classical Guitar, Flute, Piano, Recorder, Saxaphone and Violin to West End Show and Baroque Singing.
At the Grand Final, which was held in the majestic setting of the Crowne Plaza on Thursday 30 January, the large audience was treated to recitals which received great critical acclaim.
The Competition reamains indebted to its major sponsors: Citibank, Crowne Plaza and Yamaha for their invaluable support. It is the young musicians who participated, their parents, accompanists and teachers who we need to recognise and thank for their contributions to YMOG 2014, we hope that you enjoyed the experience and we are all very much looking forward to YMOG 2015.
Tuesday 28 January - ROUND 1 St Christopher's Senior School, Isa Town
Wednesday 29 January - ROUND 2 & ENSEMBLE COMPETITION St Christopher's Senior School, Isa Town
SEMI FINAL St Christopher's Junior School Hall, Saar
Thursday 30 January - MUSICAL WORKSHOPS St Christopher's Senior School, Isa Town
GRAND FINAL Crowne Plaza Conference Centre
The British School Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi
The British School of Kuwait
Dubai English Speaking College
Dubai College
The English College, Dubai
Sharjah English School
St Christopher's School, Bahrain
Richard Dickins - Described by Julian Lloyd Webber writing in the
London Daily Telegraph as '...an excellent conductor'.
Michael Hankinson - British born composer, conductor and organist.
Chloe Hanslip - British born virtuostic violoinist.
Wendy Holland Soloist, Music Manager BBC, Music Teacher, Head Teacher, OFSTED Inspector & currently a Course Director for the University of Buckingham PGCE programme.
In total, seventeen Ensembles entered the Young Musicians of the Gulf Ensemble Competition. The adjudicators judged the following Ensembles to be the top three in the competition.
Le Poème Des Fleurs - Jules Massenet - Sharjah English School
Piano Quintet an A Major OP.81, Movement I - Dvorak - The British School Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi
Vocal Quartet - Irish Blessing - Chilcott - Dubai College
The winning Ensemble was the British School Al Khubairat
Young Musicians of Gulf 2014, Winner - Xiaolin Zhang (English College, Dubai)
Young Musicians of Gulf 2014, Runner Up - Alaw Henderson (British School Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi)
Young Musicians of Gulf 2014, Ensemble Winner - Dvorak Quintet (British School Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi)
Young Composer of the Gulf 2014, Winner - Nicholas Kohn (British School Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi)
Young Composer of the Gulf 2014, Owerkowicz Bequest - William Caley (St Christopher's, Bahrain) Awarded to the Most Promising Bahrain Based Musician
Young Composer of the Gulf 2014, Knights Bequest - Mariam Sharaky (English College, Dubai) Awarded to the Most Promising Musician 15 years or younger
Young Composer of the Gulf 2014, Piano Award - Hai Wei Li (British School of Kuwait)
Young Composer of the Gulf 2014, Woodwind Award - Bethany Wright (Dubai College)
Young Composer of the Gulf 2014, Brass Award - Hana Nasif (St Christopher's School, Bahrain)
Young Composer of the Gulf 2014, Vocal Award - Matias Goodwin (Dubai English Speaking College)
Young Composer of the Gulf 2014, Bowed String Award - Joon Woo Jeong (Dubai College)
Young Composer of the Gulf 2014, Plucked String Award - Sandip Roy (Dubai College)
BIS Abu Dhabi very proudly hosted the prestigious BSME U15 Games 2014 between 27 - 29 November, which were a huge success.
11 BSME schools competed from countries such as Kuwait, Bhrain, Egypt, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
The Games officially commenced with a rousing opening ceremony which included the UAE National anthem sung by the BIS Abu Dhabi school choir and a performance by their samba band.
The BSME U15 Games started off with the football tournament at Zayed Sports City. The standard of performance from all schools at the Football was excellent.
Girls Football Results
1. Al Khor International School, Qatar
2. Brighton College, Abu Dhabi
3. Dhahran British Grammar School, Saudi Arabia
Boys Football Results
1. St Christopher's School, Bahrain
2. Al Khor International School, Qatar
3. Mesaieed International School, Qatar
Day two took place on the Athletics field at Zayed Sports City, followed by the girls netball and boys basketball. Athletics with events such as track, long jump and high jump.
The third and final day of the BSME U15 Games again involved the boys basketball held at New York University and girls netball at Zayed Sports City. The standard of performance was yet again excellent from all schools at the netball.
Basketball Results
1. British School Kuwait
2. Al Khor International School, Qatar
3. British International School, Cairo
Netball Results
1. New English School, Kuwait
2. Brighton College, Abu Dhabi
3. British School Kuait
The event was concluded in grand fashion with the award ceremony gala.
The Games were hugely successful with many smiling faces, and every child who attended the U15 BSME Games were a credit to their schools.
Congratulations to the overall winners of the competition:
1st place: Al Khor International School, Qatar
2nd place: Mesaieed International School, Qatar
3rd place: New English School, Kuwait
The BSME U13 Games were the first BSME games to have different schools organising and hosting. The Games took place in January at St Christopher's, Bahrain and were organised by Dhahran British Grammar School. Twelve Schools took part in the sporting events over three days, Football, Girls Netball, Boys Volleyball & Athletics. The overall winners of the Games were The English School of Kuwait followed by St Christopher's, Bahrain and the British International School of Jeddah, in 3rd place.
The event was extremely well organised and we received excellent feedback:
"Great tournament, all pupils enjoyed their time and look forward to next year's already!! Thank you"
"The tournament was fun and the pupils had a ball!''
"The Organisers did a great job, it is a very hard job to coordinate theses games and he worked very hard to ensure their success"
"My first experience of BSME and I was very happy"
The Football was held at the Bahrain Rugby Club with excellent sportsmanship and commitment. Teams were evenly matched with many of the knockout games being decided on penalties.
Boys Football Results
Most Valuable Player was awarded to Osani, Al Khor International School, Qatar.
Girls Football Results
Most Valuable Player was awarded to Tiffany Murray, Dhahran British Grammar School.
The Netball and Volleyball tournamants took place at St Christopher's senior site. The Umpires were all official Umpires from the Bahrain Netball League and were very professional. Congratulations to all the participants on day two in what was a very enjoyable day with some great sportsmanship between players and teams.
Girls Netball Results
Most Valuable Player was awarded to Tiffany Murray , Dhahran British Grammar School
& Olamide Akinmejiwa, Sherborne International School, Qatar.
Boys Volleyball Results
Most Valuable Player was awarded to Danial Ahmed, British International School Riyadh
The Athletics was held at St Christopher's Primary site with very typical "British Weather"! Umberellas were the order of the day, very unusual for the Middle East but non the less a great temperature for all the athletes.
Mixed Athletics Results
GOLD The English School of Kuwait
SILVER St Christopher's School,Bahrain
BRONZE British International School Jeddah
4. British School of Muscat
5. British International School Riyadh
6. Dukhan English School
7. Dhahran British Grammar School
8. Al Khor International School, Qatar
8. British International School Cairo
10. Kuwait English School
11. Sherborne School, Qatar
12. International Community School, Jordan
The inaugural BSME cricket tournament was held on Feburary 5th 2015 organised by Sherborne School & Dukhan School, Qatar.
Dukhan School, Qatar
Dukhan School
Sherborne School
Al Khor International School
Despite only a small entry this year due to a change of venue, the tournament was played with a good spirit and attitude by all the players.
In the first match Al Khor was bowled out for 39 and despite the loss of an early wicket, Sherborne completed the victory with plenty of overs to spare. In the next match, Al Khor posted a better total in their allotted overs reaching 89 for 5 wickets, but Dhukan proved too strong and won the game without losing a wicket comfortably with their overs.
The deciding game also proved to be one sided as Dhukan beat Sherborne by 9 wickets. Sherborne batted first and although scored steadily lost key wickets at the wrong times and only Ben Gough with 40 not out showed any resistance. Superb batting by Maaz Alam eased Dhukan to victory; his rapid 46 not out proving to be the best innings of the day.
Dhukan victorious winner of the BSME Cricket 2015.
The BSME U15 Games was held in Bahrain in November 2013. This inter-school tournament sees pupils from all over the Middle East compete in various sports and this time it was hosts St Christopher’s School A Team who won the overall tournament.
It was a very well organised Event which received the following feedback.
“I just want to say what a brilliant job you and your team did organising the U15 BSME Games event.”
“Our students thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and the atmosphere at the entire event made it a thoroughly enjoyable experience for all.”
“I know how much time and effort goes into organising events on top of the day to day teaching so please pass on my thanks to all who were involved in this event.”
The Football took place at the Bahrain Rugby Club, where a great atmosphere was created. The Boys tournament was won by the British School of Kuwait and the Girls tournament was won by St Christopher’s A Team in an all St Christopher’s final.
Results:
Boys:
Girls:
St Christopher’s A Team Bahrain and Al Khor International School Qatar won all their fixtures in their respective Pools taking an early lead. They were closely followed by British School of Kuwait and British International School Riyadh Saudi Arabia both coming second in their pools. British School Riyadh had a tough match against St Christopher’s A Team losing out 6-3 but were rewarded by narrowly winning the 3rd and 4th playoff against Al Khor International School and receiving the bronze medal.
Results:
Both pools featured quality sides, with five teams finishing up on 13 points at the end of the Pool stage. St Christopher’s A Team Bahrain topped pool A, conceding just 80 points and Kuwait English School topped Pool B conceding just 86 points.
Results:
The Athletics was held at St Christopher’s Primary site. The crowd were on their feet during the 100m sprint finals. The 400m finals for both girls and boys were won by Sherborne School where as the gold medals for 800m girls and boys went to the British School of Riyadh and the Long jump champions were Mesaieed School.
The British School Kuwait of was delighted to organise and host the annual U13 BSME Games from Thursday 15 January – Saturday 17 January 2015. British schools travelled from Bahrain, Egypt, Qatar, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia and within Kuwait to compete at the event, with 300 students representing 12 schools for a weekend of sport, competition and fun.
After international schools arrived on Wednesday 14 January, local schools greeted them on day one of the competition at the Kuwait Athletics Association stadium, Kaifan, on Thursday. Fantastic athletic performances were on show, with schools selecting their best students to represent them in these prestigious games. Schools were also invited to take part in a CrossFit session provided by CrossFit BSK, and were put through their paces by one of the only affiliated CrossFit schools in Asia.
After the sport was completed on day 1, students were treated to a visit to Kuwait’s most popular and famous mall, the Avenues, allowing for relaxation time and friendships to form.
Results
1. The English School, Kuwait
2. British International School Jeddah
3. St Christopher's School, Bahrain
On day 2, schools competed in basketball (at BSK) and netball (hosted by The English School, TES). Once again, the standard of play was excellent and despite an unexpected hail storm, performances thrilled the on looking crowds and stretched nerves to breaking point. In the evening there was the chance to mingle once again at a BBQ hosted by headline sponsor Moevenpick Al Bida’a.
Basketball Results
1. The English School, Kuwait
2. British International School Jeddah
3. Kuwiat English School
Netball Results
1. The English School, Kuwait
2. British International School
3. Brighton College, Abu Dhabi
Boys’ and girls’ football was the theme on the final day. In keeping with their efforts earlier in the weekend, students put on another superb show, with some vigorous and skillful football being played.
Girls Football Results
1. St Christopher's School, Bahrain
2. British International School Jeddah
3. Brighton College, Abu Dhabi
Boys Football Results
1. St Christopher's School, Bahrain
2. The English School, Kuwiat
3. British International School Cairo
Weekend highlights were captured by Trans World Soccer, who uploaded some terrific footage and made sure all students, including those from the winning school, The English School, went away with some well recorded memories. Before final goodbyes were delivered, there was the Gala Lunch, where the successes were celebrated, but more importantly, friendships secured for all students and staff involved.
1. The English School, Kuwait
2. St Christopher's School, Bahrain
3. British International School Jeddah
The BSME U11 Games marked it’s 10th anniversary in Dubai at the weekend, with its organisers labeling the 2013 event as one of the very best.
The inter-school tournament sees pupils from all over the Middle East compete in various sports and this time it was hosts Dubai English Speaking School who came out in top.
It was also a fitting way for DESS to mark their 50th anniversary, and head of sport Max Lohe, said: “It’s been a fantastic weekend of sport, the children thoroughly enjoyed it which is the main thing.
“We’ve had teams from all over the Middle East to compete and it’s been a great success.”
The Egyptian teams set the pace before eventual winners St Christopher’s of Bahrain powered through – beating hosts DESS 6-4 on their way to the final. There they edged out El Allson Cairo 3-2.Results:
1) St Christopher’s Bahrain
2) El Allson Cairo
3) MES Cairo
JESS Dubai and DESS Dubai took the early lead in their respective groups winning all their fixtures. DESS had a tough play-off against BIS Riyadh to reach the finals where they faced JESS Dubai. The final was a fast-paced and skilful game and after a nailbiting 12 minutes of play, DESS Dubai took a 3–2 victory.Results:1) DESS Dubai2) JESS Dubai3) BIS Riyadh
Both pools featured quality sides, with past BSME Champions on either side of the draw. DESS Dubai were unlucky in their opening match to draw with BIS Jeddah after coming out and scoring an early goal. However, they bounced back to win their next game 2-0 against KES Kuwait. Eventually they had to settle for fifth place, just missing out on the last four.The semi-finals were fought out between BIS Jeddah, JESS Dubai, NES Kuwait and Dukhan Qatar. Both games were tight and both went to extra-time and ultimately penalty shootouts. BIS Jeddah and Dukhan won through and contested a fantastic final with BIS Jeddah coming out on top with a 2-0 victory.Results:1) BIS Jeddah2) Dukhan3) JESS Dubai
With over 400 people in attendance there was a great atmosphere for the 24-event swimming programme. Outstanding performances were shown in this by BIS Riyadh, DESS Dubai and JESS Jumeirah.Eventually the first place position balanced on the results of the relay finals. JESS and DESS continued their long standing rivalry with the former prevailing by just two points.
1) JESS Dubai
2) DESS Dubai
3) DESS Doha
The Athletics was held at the impressive Police Officers Stadium in Garhoud. The crowd were on their feet during the 75m and 150m sprint finals, both girls’ sprints were won by Sophia Farid-Malthe of DESS and the boys’ sprints by George Boon of JESS Jumeirah.Other outstanding performances were seen in the boys 600m with Mackenzie Hunt (DESS) winning in 1min 48secs and Nafisa Jibrilu of MES Cairo winning the girls triple jump in 6.04m.
1) DESS Dubai
2) JESS Dubai
3) DESS Doha
1) DESS Dubai 51pts
2) JESS Dubai 49
3) MES Cairo 42
4) St Christopher’s Bahrain 40
5) DESS Doha 40
6) British International School Jeddah 34
7) British International School Riyadh 30
8 )Al Khor International School 28
9) Dukhan Qatar 27
10) El Alsson Cairo 22
11) New English School Kuwait 19
12) Kuwait English School 13
The Music Festival was jointly organized by The English Academy, Kuwait and The New English School, Kuwait and took place 28-30 November 2014. The venue for all workshops and the final performance was the new auditorium of The English Academy.
203 students from 8 schools, year 5 – year 13, along with 21 music teachers participated:
British International School of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Sherborne College, Qatar
St. Christopher’s School, Bahrain
The English Academy, Kuwait
The New English School, Kuwait
Kuwait English School, Kuwait
The English School, Kuwait
The British School of Kuwait
The theme of the festival was loosely ‘Music from film and TV’
The students worked in a variety of ensembles: Orchestra, Wind Band, Senior Choir, Junior Choir, String Orchestra, Brass Ensemble, Woodwind Ensemble, Flute Choir, Rock Groups, at music selected by the ensemble director. Numerous workshops/rehearsals worked them hard, in a way not always possible in schools, in order to produce polished performances.
These rehearsal sessions were interspersed with non-musical activities to provide a little light relief! These included Wii games, ball games, making snow globes, hip-hop, making balloon animals, card tricks, juggling, raspberry pie (music programming), face-painting and set design.
The weekend culminated in a final, grand concert for participants to present the fruits of their labour. The packed audience comprised dignitaries from the participating schools, parents and friends and received the performances enthusiastically.
All the participating students and staff, departed Kuwait tired yet musically fulfilled and all took something with them that they will treasure – the friendship of fellow musicians.
Such is the popularity of the annual Music Festival that as soon as the final concert was over students were asking when and where the next one is!
BSME U11 Girls and Boys Football- Results:
CONGRATULATIONS! To all of the Schools that competed in this years BSME U11 boys and Girls Football Tournament organised and hosted by St Christopher's School Bahrain, on 7 & 8 December 2012.
The girls kicked off the tournament on a sunny Friday morning, with 7 teams competing from: St Christopher's School Bahrain, British International School of Al Khobar, Dhahran British Grammar School, Sherborne School Qatar and British International School of Jeddah.
Girls Tournament Results
| Bowl Final: | British International School |
| Plate Final (3rd and 4th): | Sherborne School |
| Cup Final: | St Christopher's School (1) |
| Fair Play Award: | British International School of Jeddah (2) |
The boy’s tournament started bright and early on Saturday morning and saw two further schools being welcomed to the competition: The English Academy, Kuwait and Doha College Primary.
Eleven boys’ teams competed throughout the day, cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd of spectators.
Boys Tournament Results
| Bowl Final: | British International School |
| Plate Final: | Sherborne School, Qatar |
| 3rd and 4th Playoffs: | British International School of Jeddah (2) |
| Cup Final: | St Christopher's School (1) |
| Fairplay Award: | British International School of Jeddah (2) |
Special thanks go to organiser Rebecca Lodwig , parents, supporters, coaches and referees.
Well done to all of the Schools that took part in the competition and displayed an excellent level of effort and sportsmanship throughout.
The third BSME Debating Tournament took place at St Christopher’s School, Bahrain on the weekend of 6th - 8th November. Thirty-six teams from schools in Bahrain, Egypt, Pakistan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar took part in this event.
This has grown year by year and for the 2014 tournament there were 136 debates, covering many diverse topics, from anti-aging drugs to the charisma effect of Vladimir Putin, and the European carbon trading scheme.
The teams in the final advanced through seven rounds of debate, four of which involved prepared speech and three were impromptu, with an additional round for seniors.
They later qualified from the quarter-finals and semi-finals.
The final motion was:This House believes that Hacking is Healthy and was contested between St Christopher’s and Sherborne School, Qatar, in the Junior Section; and St Christopher’s and The British School of Kuwait in the Senior Section. St Christopher’s won both sections.
The Gulf Daily News Editor-in-Chief, George Williams presented the winners with their prizes during an awards ceremony.
"Debating is a great way to learn and gain confidence," said Mr Williams.
"Everyone talks about the importance of poise, preparation and performance - but to me the prime ingredient is passion.
"All the best debates, regardless of personal opinions, will only be exciting and convincing if fuelled by passionate belief and plenty of that was in evidence here today.
"In fact the standard of debating throughout this tournament has been phenomenal and I pay tribute to St Christopher's School for staging what has already become a prestigious multicultural event."
"This kind of competition increases the students' confidence in public speaking and helps them think spontaneously.
"It also encourages team work and teaches them research methods."
Mr David Milnes, the Event Host Coordinator said the competition also paves the way for the major World Schools Debate Championships, which take place annually.
St Christopher's, Bahrain
Dhahran British Grammar School, Saudi Arabia
British School of Muscat, Oman
Sherborne School, Qatar
The British School of Alexandria, Egypt
British School of Kuwait
British Overseas School Karachi, Pakistan
BSME U11 Boys and Girls Football: 7 & 8 December 2012
For the second year running, St Christopher’s School Bahrain will be hosting the BSME Under 11 Boys and Girls Football Tournament.
Seven girls teams and eleven boys teams will be participating from the following schools:
The girls event will be held on Friday 7th December, followed by the boys event on Saturday 8th December 2012.
Results and photos from both days will be posted on the BSME events blog following the tournament.
Wishing the best of luck to all of the teams travelling to Bahrain for what promises to be an excellent event.
Congratulations to all students who were involved in the Under 19 BSME Trathlon at the Khiran Resort in Kuwait at the end of October. This is the 3rd year that BSME has combined with Pro Vision to run this event.
18 teams of students from Kuwait English School and British School Kuwait competed for the boys, girls and mixed categories plus another 3 combined staff/student teams as well as the 10 members of staff who completed in the Sprint and Olympic individual events.
Kuwait English School and British School Kuwait also provided 50 marshals and 2 lifeguards!
1st BSK
2nd BSK
3rd KES
1st BSK
2nd BSK
3rd KES
1st KES
2nd KES
3rd KES
The Inaugural BSME Debating Competition: 18-21 October 2012
Congratulations to winners Doha College and to all who took part in the first ever BSME Debating Competition, hosted by St Christophers School, Bahrain.
The event was attended by teams from: St Christophers School, Bahrain, British School Kuwait, Kuwait National English School, Doha College, Dhahran British Grammar School, Jumeirah College, Dubai and the British Overseas School Karachi.
Over the course of the competition, teams from Years 9 to 13 were given the opportunity to debate prepared and impromptu motions which culminated in the teams from Doha College and Jumeirah College going head to head on the final day. Both teams impressed the judges and held an audience of around 250 students and teachers as the final motion was debated, leaving everybody guessing right up until the judges announced the results.
Trophies were presented to both teams by Bahrain Charges d'affair Mr Ross Dixon and the closing speech was given by Mr Ed Goodwin, Principal of St Christophers School.
Special thanks go to David Milnes and his team for organising this superb inaugural event.
To learn more about debating or to prepare your own teams for the next BSME debating competition please visit: www.debatebsme.com
To enquire about BSME events please contact Tracey Burrows at events@bsme.org.uk
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