Moshi Campus News – 1 Jun 2025

Congratulations to the M5 students for finishing the MYP. It will be great to see those returning here in August as Diploma students. To those pursuing other paths, we wish you the best of luck and expect to see you at some point in the future.

I would like to thank all those that helped Ms Farah prepare for the ceremony. It was a lovely event and you made the hall look great.

This week our M4 students will be having end of semester exams as part of their longer term preparation for exams at the end of M5. Our D1 students started their exams on Friday.

As you will see below we have a lot going on still with the classes still here. Please also note that we have some community events and look forward to seeing you at those. In particular please note that while we finish school on Thursday the 19th, due to other events the end of year assembly will actually be Thursday the 12th at 10:30am.

One last item, we will have school on Monday the 9th. The initial calendar produced has that day as a provisional holiday but the holiday has now been confirmed for the weekend so school will take place on Monday as normal.

Bob Cofer – Head of Campus

We’d like to invite all Uja Families to a Thank You picnic on Friday 14th June from 4:00 to 6:00 on the Green.

Please let us know if you will be able to attend by filling in this form
All family members are welcome to attend.

Our last Farmers’ Market will be Friday June 6th from 12:30pm to 4pm. Please come and join us. Maybe you can even pick up an item or two for the upcoming holidays.

For many, Friday’s Gathering of Gratitude was the highlight of another action-packed week. We introduced this event in my first year and it has become a much-appreciated annual occasion. It is an opportunity for us all to think about the people who work so hard to have a positive impact on our daily lives at UWCEA…and to let them know we are grateful. The Primary students expressed their heartfelt thanks to our cleaners, kitchen staff, office staff, askaris, fundis, gardeners, the nurses, and, even, the leadership team! As always, it was such a heartwarming and joyful occasion. Kudos to Ms. Jamie and Mr. Swai for once again making the event such a musical celebration too.

My mum always used to tell me ‘if you have an attitude of gratitude, the more you will have to be thankful for,’ and she is right. At times, we understandably become consumed by our own trials and tribulations, pending deadlines and commitments, our current workload or upcoming events. However, I challenge all of us to foster and promote an “attitude of gratitude.” For us all to try and focus on the positives, what we have and what is going well, rather than allow ourselves to be dragged down into a negative space, focusing on what we do not have, what is lacking or what is missing. We all have an awful lot to be thankful for.

Ben Morley – Deputy Head of Campus

Every week is special, but this one was extra special as our M5 students celebrated the end of their MYP journey in a ceremony that was as fun, heartfelt, and full of personality as they are! A huge thank you to all the parents and guardians who joined us to mark this milestone. It meant the world to the students (and to us!). Up next for this incredible group: the DP! We wish them all the luck, laughter, and learning in the world as they take their next steps. And of course, a big, big thank you to the entire MYP team of teachers who supported, challenged, guided, and cheered these students on every step of the way. What a journey it’s been!

M1 PHE
This week, M1 students took on their Design Your Own Adventure Game summative with energy, creativity, and teamwork. Drawing on their learning from the unit…collaboration, strategy, physical movement, and problem-solving…they worked in teams to design and lead original adventure games for a very special audience: our enthusiastic P4/5 students! The experience was a great success. M1s demonstrated leadership, clear communication, and adaptability, while also reflecting on their own performance and team dynamics. Their final reflective reports will connect the dots between physical activity and life skills, an engaging and meaningful end to the unit.

M1 Design
This week, M1 students proudly showcased their Assistive Technology prototypes to a panel of M4 students. Each student pitched their individual project, explained their design process, and presented a poster outlining their design brief and specifications. M4 students voted across four categories: Best Product, Best Pitch, Best Idea, and Best Poster. It was a fantastic opportunity for M1s to practise their communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills while receiving feedback from an authentic audience. A big well done to our young designers for combining empathy, innovation, and design thinking in such inspiring ways!

M1 Theatre
This week, M1 students took the stage for their final performance and assessment of the World Theatre unit, bringing to life elements of Japanese and French theatrical traditions. Through expressive masks, vibrant costumes, and carefully crafted performances, they transported the audience across cultures and time. The students demonstrated impressive understanding of world theatre, characterization, and ensemble work, showing not only their understanding of different dramatic styles but also their creativity and commitment. It was a fantastic celebration of storytelling, cultural appreciation, and performance skills…bravo, M1!

MYP Dates to Remember

• June 9th to 12th – M4 End of Year Assessments
• June 13th,16th & 17th – Days of Giving Back for M1, M2, M3 & M4
• June 19th – Classes End at 12:10 pm

Have a wonderful week ahead!
Farah Fawaz – MYP Coordinator

Dear UWCEA Community,

Last week, we said our goodbyes to the D2s, and this week, it’s time to wish our M5s well as they move into their next chapter. Soon, we’ll be doing the same with the rest of our students. These farewells are never easy, but they remind us of how much growth, connection, and joy filled this year.

As we prepare for everyone’s departure, we kindly ask that families of students in PYP through D1 complete the departure form by Monday, June 2. This helps us organize transportation, finalize travel plans, and make sure each student leaves campus safely, supported, and with care.

Travel form: PYP – D1 – June 2

If you have any questions about the form or want to talk through your child’s travel plans, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Finally, a reminder about our Uja Thank You Picnic on the Green, June 14 from 16:00 to 18:00. If you are an Uja family or an Uja student, please join us.

Best,

Adnan Mackovic – Head of Residential Life

This week, we were both reeling from the high of graduation and recovering from the busyness of the last 4 weeks in diploma. Thank you to the parents who made the graduation last week (and to those who watched from afar) – it was a joy to celebrate our students. With exams all done, we now await the IB results, which will be released on 6 July. Students have been sent their pin codes and can access their results on the IB website. Students may query their final marks but there is a cost involved. Students can email me for more information should they wish to use this service after the results have come out.

The D1s have started their first set of exams too. This is a great opportunity for them to practice exam-taking techniques, study habits and exam procedures. I reminded them that worry is a normal part of life – it’s the part that keeps us safe when faced with danger – real or imagined! We should not shy away from a little stress. Exams will continue next week and then we will take some time to focus on the Extended Essay, Collaborative Science Project, Theory of Knowledge and setting expectations for D2. This is a wonderful group of young leaders and we are excited to see them step in leadership next year.

We also had the opportunity to meet the Incoming Class of 2027! Our D1s introduced Tanzanian life, life in Moshi, Campus life, what to pack and touched on the academics. Thank you to the parents who made the meeting this week too – we are excited to meet you all next year. We will be hosting another meeting for returning parents (those whose children are coming from M5). Dates to follow.

Catherine Dowie – Diploma Coordinator

D1s have really started to kick off their university research and application process.  This month’s university essay workshop – where they had one-on-one appointments to discuss their early draft essays with a university representative – proved incredibly helpful for many of them. They are also working on requesting their teacher recommendations, and are starting to research universities where they might want to apply next year. By working hard on the various parts of their application now, they are setting themselves up for a smooth year in D2!

M5s also had their introduction to university advising last week.  During our time together, we talked about making the most of the transition to D1, discussed the overall timeline of university applications and the various materials that they will be sharing when they apply, and spent time walking through all of the resources available on our university advising website.  We hope that you will also take a minute to explore the site.

Megan Morris

Last weekend, UWCEA Moshi ultimate players and community players joined forces to form a team to participate in the Kilimanjaro Ultimate Frisbee competition. With a total of 8 teams from all over Tanzania and Kenya, this 2-day tournament was both fun and challenging. The results were, UWC team came 2nd out of the youth teams and 5th out of 8 teams overall. A highlight of the tournament was when students played against a well-structured zone “cup” defense. UWC Moshi is now very interested in adopting the new defensive strategy for sports weekend.

This year we also want to say goodbye to D2 student David, from Mexico. In the two years David was with us, took on the student coach role and elevated the team’s game knowledge and discipline. David’s contributions to the UWC Ultimate club are invaluable, and David’s drills and games will never be forgotten.

Coach Baden

Welcome back to the P6 class who enjoyed a lovely camping trip near Karatu last week (see Ms. Natasha’s letter for full details). Thank you to everyone who attended Friday’s Gathering of Gratitude. The children were very excited to perform for our support staff and to voice their thanks to everyone who helps life run smoothly on campus. Thank you to Ms. Jamie and Mr. Emmanuel for the music and singing. Our lovely display boards are now on the breezeway.

We have another busy week in the primary school coming up. On Wednesday, 4th June, the P6 class will travel to St. Constantine’s to participate in an inter-house Maths event – we wish them a successful day. P2 will have their camp at Kishari House on 5th – 6th June and EC/P1 will have a day camp on 6th June. On the afternoon of Friday, 6th June, we  will host a friendly football tournament against Hope. The details have been shared on Life.

The following week (beginning 9th June) also sees some big events, the details of which will be shared in next week’s newsletter.  However, I would like to draw your attention to the picnic to say goodbye to leaving staff.  On June 11th we will have a potluck picnic to say goodbye to our departing primary staff: Mr. Ben, Mme Pearl, Ms. Natasha, Ms. Heloise (not officially a PYP teacher but a source of constant support for the primary school) and Ms. Julieth. The children will give speeches to say farewell to these much loved members of our community and we will then share a picnic. The school will provide samosas, popcorn and veggie sticks and children are encouraged to bring some food to share which will be placed on a central table. Parents are warmly invited to attend. Please look out for an email with further details this coming week.

The P4/5 class will be organising a food drive next week. We will be collecting food (oil, rice, beans and sugar) for a local children’s home. The children will publicise the event next week but this is advance notice to put some food items aside to contribute if you are able to do so.

Please note a change to the school calendar: on the final day of the semester, Thursday 19th June, classes will end at 12:10pm.

Deborah Mills – PYP Coordinator

P1s explored how to tell the time to half an hour this week. It is always tricky to learn how to do this on the analogue clock, and they did their best. Parents, where possible, please provide them with watches so they can continue practising. Also, thank you for helping everyone with their home learning project about time and routines. We will look at all the information they collected and continue to deepen our discussions.

Next week, we will go on our annual day camp. A letter has been sent home. Please sign the permission slip and return it to us before the day. We always look forward to our day camp. It is one of the privileges of attending a school that promotes outdoor pursuits for students of all ages.

The picture shared is of the P1s who presented at the Gathering of Gratitude. For some, it was the first time presenting in front of such a large audience. For some, it was their first time presenting in Kiswahili. Well done P1s.

Mboka Mwasongwe

Why do giraffes have long necks? Why do bats hang upside down? These are some of the questions we’ve explored by looking into traditional ‘Just so’ stories from Africa. We’ve been reading the wonderful collection of books from Mwenye Hadithi and we’ve watched a few short episodes of Tinga Tinga. Now we’re writing our own after first making a writing plan. The stories are coming together so well! We’ve got an eagle who learns a lesson about helping others, the chatting cheetah who won’t be quiet, and some siafu who are always up to trouble.

The photo is from the Gratitude Gathering. Our class did a terrific job with their instruments. They also enjoyed decorating the boards for the Guards, Gardeners and our school Counselors. We’re glad that so many parents could attend.

Next week, we will invite Ms. Mboka’s class to have a look at our 3-d maps of Tanzania. We’d like to show them what we’ve been learning about Tanzanian geography.

The major upcoming event for next week is the P2 camping trip on Thursday at the Kishari House. Letters and permission slips have been sent home with all the details. Remember that Tuesday will be the day for checking out anything needed from the OP department. We are looking forward to this Primary Rite of Passage.

Kacey Buckley

Parth celebrated his birthday on Wednesday – many happy returns – and we all enjoyed a delicious cake. We helped out with some MYP classes this week as the children were the audience for M1 drama and were also the “guinea pigs” for the M1 class when they shared some games they had designed in PE. On Friday a group went cooking (thank you to Ms. Marilize) and we also carried out some community service by visiting the school chickens to feed them and change their water. In maths, the children have been exploring percentages and measurement and in our language lessons we have been looking at the features of persuasive writing. Next week, as part of our work on human rights,  the children will consider what action they can take to support a local children’s home. Although the details are not yet fixed, this is likely to include a food drive so please consider putting some oil, beans, rice and sugar to one side so you are ready for when the children start asking for contributions.

Deborah Mills

This week, P6 enjoyed a wonderful camping trip to Haven Nature Campsite near Karatu. On the way, we saw the Great Rift Valley Wall and made a stop to admire the beautiful view of Lake Manyara from the lookout point.

We spent the afternoon at African Galleria, where we were grateful to Mrs. Sisca (Mama Raphael) and Mr. Punit Dodhia (Papa Raphael) for making us feel welcome and for arranging a delicious meal. During our time there, we observed a painting session led by three talented, self-taught artists and watched skilled artisans carve detailed designs from ebony wood. P6 also learned about the processes involved in Tanzanite mining, grading, and polishing. A visit to the Benin Gallery offered meaningful links to our Unit of Inquiry from earlier in the year.

In the evening, we gathered around a campfire to toast marshmallows, and the following morning, we set off on an early hike.

It was a fantastic camp and a lot of fun. I would like to thank Mr. Emmanuel, Mr. Isaac, Mr. Elisha, and Ms. Tahera for their support throughout the trip.

Next Wednesday, 4th June, P6 will be participating in an exciting inter-school Maths event at St. Constantine’s School. Please return the permission form by Monday.

Natasha Berri

Let’s meet Omar — a first-time runner for 24hour run. With just three weeks of preparation, he set out to run 100km and made it an incredible 80km. Along the way, he faced challenges, learned from mistakes, and was lifted by the energy of a supportive community for his final kilometers. His journey is proof that purpose fuels perseverance. If you’re ready to push your limits and be the change — join us on 12th and 13th of September and become apart of the next 24 Hour Run.

HOW TO GET SPONSORS?

Sponsorship don’t have to be limited to shaving and running laps. A great way to get sponsored is by providing services in exchange for donations! (ex. mowing a lawn, cleaning a house, baking for holidays, making crafts etc.)

The countdown is on for the final OP trip of the year – Peaks Discovery to Longido, departing next week!

Mt. Longido (2,637m), a sacred mountain of the Maasai people, is located in the western region of Kilimanjaro, near the town of Longido and close to the Kenyan border. Students will take on a challenging 8-hour hike, ascending over 1,300 metres and enjoying spectacular views of both Mt. Meru and Kilimanjaro – the perfect way to wrap up the OP calendar.

Mr. Isaac and Mr. Salimu have returned to school this week after completing the recertification of their Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course. Designed for outdoor professionals, the WFR course prepares participants to handle injuries and illnesses in remote, demanding environments. It’s a fast-paced, hands-on, and thoroughly engaging course, covering a wide range of scenarios.

As you can see, Mr. Isaac appears to have been mauled by a wild animal – but fear not! He’s made a full recovery, and you’re definitely in safe hands with the OP team.

And finally – it doesn’t goat much better than this! Please read the trip review from Rhea (M3) about the Plains Discovery trip to Monduli.

Monduli OP (Plains Discovery) was a short but unforgettable two-day, one-night experience, rich in breathtaking scenery, newfound friendships, and uncontrollable laughter. We hiked 25 km through a variety of trees, native plants, and vast stretches of open plains. The views were picture-perfect, especially during sunrise and sunset; their beauty was truly unmatched.

On the first day, we drove to a rural market where we began our journey into the hills. As we set off on our adventure, we walked alongside goats, spoke to local Maasai, and soaked in the surrounding nature. That evening, we witnessed the majestic silhouette of the volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai while sitting around our campfire, barbecuing the succulent goat we had picked up along the way. The stars blanketed the sky as we shared stories late into the night before retreating to our tents.

The second day began bright and early with the soft sound of rustling wind and the sweet aroma of freshly cut fruit. After packing away our tents, we set out to complete the final leg of our expedition. The trail was mostly uphill, though considerably shorter. At the peak, a refreshing breeze greeted us, and the valley below was carpeted in lush greenery, a truly mesmerizing sight. Countless plant species stretched across the horizon beneath the brilliant sun.

All in all, this trip was a perfect reflection of the joy in life’s simplest pleasures. A transformative escape from everyday life, filled with fresh air, connection, discovery, and a sense of deep calm. Monduli Plains Discovery is without a doubt a trip worth taking!

This week the M1-M3 environmental service was handed a large volume of clothes donated kindly by the graduating class of 2025. Reaching out to the Sustainability Committee and with some unexpected help from Ms. Hilda’s Old Age Care service, they have big plans in the lead up to the end of year Swap Shop.

Next Friday, they will be selling the best of these wonderful clothes and other items at the Farmers’ Market as a fundraiser.  The funds will go to a waste reduction initiative in support of the school duka, to replace single-use items being sold on campus. This will take the UWCEA Moshi campus one step closer to single-use item free.

The items left after the fundraiser will go to the swap shop, keep an eye out for announcements. If you have any items you would like to donate please bring them to room 6 anytime! Any leftover items of quality will be taken to a charity in Dar-es-Salaam by D1 Bernard, by Ms. Frida to three great local organizations and age-appropriate items to the Old Age Care service. Keep those donations coming!

Our teaching staff have taken over the recycling and compost system while the D1 students focus on exams. Thank you especially to Mr. Adnan and Ms. Vagisha for being our first staff in this supportive week, giving our students a break from their usual duties. Henry (D1) could not resist getting involved in their first rotation this past Thursday. Thanks as well to Ms. Linda, Mr. Mateusz, Mr. David and Ms. Kacey (with p2/3) for signing up so far. There is still some space to get involved next week teachers and administration!

A special thanks to the M5 parents for their efforts at reducing the impact of the M5 ceremony on Friday. From reusing items from the D2 graduation to upcycling items for future use, their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Ms. Deborah’s P4/5 took on the chicken care duty on Friday, they checked in on the kukus, replaced their water and took on the duty as stewards for sustainability. Eggs are not far away, and we are always looking for more helping hands in the community garden. Thank you P4/5 for your commitment.

Thanks to all those involved in the various areas of the school community
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Mr. Will

Daycare Service

Our students have been working hard at building a storage solution for the Daycare Centre. After weeks of preparing used wood pieces and old planks, students designed and manufactured a shelf storage system. This week the students did finishing touches with paint and varnish. Next week, the students will deliver the storage shelf to the Daycare Centre.

Baden Dowie – Community Engagement and Service