lovingthesun | ExpatWoman.com
 

lovingthesun

lovingthesun
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Latest post on 09 November 2015 - 11:33
Why should that matter, there are at least two schools that spring to mind that opened last year that aren't finished which I think is shameful. lovingthesun- not sure what your post means or who it was directed to, but i was simply answering the OP's question. as far as your opinions regarding unfinished open schools, i agree, but that is not what was asked. :) Fair point i didn't write my post very well. I think i'm just so angry that some schools did open when not finished, are still not finished and have children in them! But as you say that wasn't your real point, I think you observation regarding the optimistic opening time just prompted me to see red again.
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 08 November 2015 - 14:15
I'm off to tell hubby to ask for a raise!
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 November 2015 - 13:37
Nord Anglia will always be full so you do need a good back up. It very much depends on if you're going to be here a long time or not... Repton is good in early years, but if you're staying a longer time then it's best avoided. Mixed reviews on Foremarke but it is part of Repton group. Kings comments are very difficult to post on here but suffice to say you need to physically visit the place. Jess good. Spaces in great schools are very hard to find and some people to take places at holding schools while on the wait list for a really good one.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 November 2015 - 09:02
Why should that matter, there are at least two schools that spring to mind that opened last year that aren't finished which I think is shameful.
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 05 November 2015 - 11:10
No.
lovingthesun
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Latest post on 01 November 2015 - 13:48
IB diploma is a very academic option. Given that your son is in grade 10 it might not be the best option for him in grades 11 and 12 if you think he's not an academic "type" of student?
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 01 November 2015 - 13:30
OP, i presume it was because your case wasn't an emergency as such that you were left to wait? I'd always understood that Rashid was the place to go if you really needed help?
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 01 November 2015 - 12:53
The one at Azure is very nice indeed... My only complaint is that it was rather too packed for my taste but I think that's going to be the case with all of them. This year it will be an at home family affair as we usually do for us. I might cheat though and order in some of the food because, well, I want to enjoy the day too!
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 01 November 2015 - 12:24
It's a shame though, as done well it can be really fun for the kids. Getting dressed up with mum and dad and going out a collecting a bag of sweets...well once a year it can't be too bad can it. However when it's simply kids sent out with the maids to extort the neighbours, I think that's a really unfortunate way for things to have evolved.
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 29 October 2015 - 08:37
I think this is a lovely idea. Perhaps i might be worth approaching some of the moving companies to see if they would donate some? In return for something of a public thank you on these boards perhaps? Very good luck with your idea and I think you're doing something wonderful HTH xx
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 29 October 2015 - 08:07
UmmSalah, thank you for sharing that information. There are a lot of people here interested in doing the PGCE (that is the correct way to write it) and do not realise that doing it here is different to doing it at home. Lovingthesun, seriously, get that job! Yours seems to be stalking me for some reason. I do hope I keep you entertained when you're not at your day job :)
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 October 2015 - 03:31
My opinion... No one, at least I hope no one, will hire you if you continue to use awful TXT SPCH.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 October 2015 - 09:47
Wow...thanks for that HM, i didn't know it was actually that effective.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 October 2015 - 09:14
I'm not sure I would want to be forced to go anywhere as many of the school ratings don't reflect what a parent might actually want. I can think of a number of schools that are supposedly "outstanding" that I wouldn't touch with a bargepole. Not to mention the fee differences that people might not be able to afford. Schooling is a very personal choice and a very important one. I agree that traffic, and especially driving standards, can be a challenge but I don't think you can force families to attend certain schools. I also think that the new schools coming in have significantly raised the game here and that some, not all, of the older schools have benefited from simply being the only show in town. If you forced people to go to them then it would mean their children are missing out but also that they could continue to sit and do nothing about their own standards. I should say that some of the older schools are very good and I don't in any way mean all schools. But you can see on here that the hyper aggresive way that they have been forced to "advertise" or shut down any mention of criticism or mention of the number of people leaving to new schools means that they are very aware of the issues around their own schools but don't seem to want to address it.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 October 2015 - 09:07
My childrens doesn't cut the day on Thursday at all and I'm amazed that anyone would find the idea defensible. I'm sure it's very nice for teachers, and I think that teachers do a great job, but it's not common practice around the world for this to happen is it? Certainly not in the UK at least. Some schools will do "prep" and I think that's very useful but the idea of shortening the day or watching movies seems amazing to me.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 October 2015 - 08:59
I'm very glad too. I really find the driving here very intimidating and dangerours. These people swerving around the road, on their phones or as you said putting on make up, it's crazy. Add in tired truck drivers who have been awake all night and crazy speeds. The law that you can flash your lights to make people move over...is that actually a law or is it something of a myth? I've often wondered about this as it seems a dangerous way to have things arranged. I wonder about the reporting of these events, does it have any effect on these people at all?
lovingthesun
458
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2015 - 09:05
Perhaps that cat/dog and other animal charities? There are quite a few of them talked about on here.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2015 - 08:18
I'm really pleased for you :) I think I can guess which school you're leaving even though I daren't mention its name on here I'm sure it will be one of two candidates. I really hope your children are happy at the new place and I'm sure they will be. I have become actually angry at the way in which some schools conduct themselves and the way in which their proxies conduct themselves on here. I think you're very brave and quite right to do the best thing for you and your family :)
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 October 2015 - 07:09
Does anyone know of any homeopathic doctors that are peadatricians? Not likely As one is a proper medical qualification and the other is a piece of paper that they made themselves and printed out on their inkjet at home.
lovingthesun
458
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 October 2015 - 08:37
Your children must not be fruit loops as mine are then. My troublesome trio find humour in everything they do. At least one of them, would find a joke about something that unfunny... I don't know the full ad so cannot judge. But my children may give me an idea to laugh at it with. Oh mine laugh alright...it's just an ironic "what on earth was that" kind of laugh!
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 October 2015 - 08:06
I'm not a parent there but I do know very well a number of ex-parents (who left only to come to secondary at my kids secondary school not because they were unhappy). They describe it very fondly. A very nice feel to the place, good atmosphere with nice students. Perhaps not the most rigorous academically but not weak either and the bright kids do well. I can't say much more than that but I have 4 friends whose kids used to go there and all were happy with the school. HTH X
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 October 2015 - 10:46
Firstly, why are your children the youngest? In the UK curriculum, September-born children are the oldest. I am American and would eventually like to put my children in an American-curriculum school. It starts a year later, which would mean that if your girls finish Year 3, they would go to Grade 3. Personally, I find the UK curriculum too advanced and I prefer the American one. However, eventually, things tend to even out and many American and British schools here change to IB for secondary. Because my husband insisted they be put in as the youngest :thinking: - I didn't want to. I want to see some examples, if possible, of the kind of work they're given as 7 year olds in the US curriculum. The perfect example of something your Husband should be punished for :) I always thought there wasn't one single US curriculum like there is in the UK? It might be best to go along to the school and ask to see what is going on in the class. I mean even in UK schools in Dubai there is a lot of variety between schools and some are more personalised than others. Some are more academic than others too. Mostly though I do think it might be worth repeating a year as that does seem very young to be in that year and potentially setting them up for "failure" all through their school life?
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 18 October 2015 - 16:11
Hi Ladies I have a child that goes to Foremarke and I think this school is amazing. We joined just last year for Year1 and we can already see so much improvement in our dd. Her reading has improved drastically and she gets up excited in the morning just waiting to go to school. For me my child's happiness is the most important and I'm really glad to see how much she loves her teachers and activities at the school. I particularly love their music and arts and crafts and I think its an amazing school that you should definitely consider putting your child into. Oh gosh....you really seem to love the place. That's a very very very impressive recommendation you've given it. Repton group must be very pleased to read such honest, unbiased and unsponsored feedback ☺
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 October 2015 - 10:35
Yep...hordes of 'em :) Where we live pretty much everyone gets involved which I think is nice. Though perhaps not so good for the teeth of all concerned!
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 October 2015 - 20:20
Wasn't there a measels outbreak last year? I think it's being made mandatory because there are a lot of vaccine dodgers who simply don't do it and are a hazard and come out with all sorts of reasons why not to have it. It's been discussed before on here and it gets very heated. Personally I think that people who endanger other peoples kids shouldn't be allowed in schools (and I'm really pleased that Nord Anglia takes such a strong stand on that). But even I think that making kids who have had it once before have it again is a bit much.
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 12 October 2015 - 20:16
I'm not 100% certain to be honest....i know a lot of families who are moving for secondary (and upper primary to make sure they get a good secondary place before the year 7 places are all taken) and they have said that they had to do it by the end of this term. I do also know that at least one school is telling people it's not possible to move and giving information which is not true when friends of ours checked with KHDA. In terms of moving I would do it sooner rather than later anyway...one person we knew was pressured by these type of people only to find that they had gazumped them on a place!
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2015 - 09:51
For a long time we have been very unhappy with our boys school. Pastorally , educationally and ethically we have been disappointed. Our boys were reasonably happy but one by one,their friends have left and gone to one of the new schools. As our company pay our fees, it hasn't been easy for us to speak with our feet so have held on so far. Last week I went to an open day at a school where I came away feeling totally crestfallen that my boys were missing out on what looks like a totally different experience. The passion of the head teacher, and the children was wonderful. I want my boys to have that, not what they (and we) have put up with for the last 2 years. The friends I have that have moved are delighted with the change but here's the problem, the friends I have that haven't moved are all having a go at me, telling me I owe it to the boys in their classes to stay put, there's been enough of an exodus. I know my kids are my first and only priority but the 'bullying' from these parents is becoming dreadful. I am now wondering if I should just move them now 'silently' (was planning for next year) to avoid any more hassle. I know there are a few spaces in their years but didn't ask when the 'cut off ' date was for moving. Does anyone know if I could move them in January if not now or is that too late? Hi. May I please have the name of the school whose open house you attended? And if you don't mind, then also the name of the current school your kids are going to. I am in the process of moving to Dubai. And at the moment totally confused by the school situation. The lack of availability in the top schools has made the choice so difficult. Would appreciate your help. Thanks I don't think this is a good idea sorry :( It's just that the bullies and the school employees are by far and away the most frequent school related posters on here and are quite remarkable and viscous in what they come out with. These boards are a poor way to find a good school sadly because of people like these. Which school advisor . Com Personal visits Real people face to face recommendations These are the only reliable ways I'm afraid.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 October 2015 - 21:38
Move them...they are your children and as such the only thing that matters. They will never have their school days again. Just move and say nothing...these bullies are typical of a certain class of people I think. In terms of timing isn't the cut off Jan?
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 October 2015 - 19:44
My advice would be don't use these boards :) There are far too many school employees basically posing as parents and advertising their schools, despite there being some shockers out there. Use whichschooladvisor.com instead.. A much better option :) ....or just go look and see, you'll get a feeling for a school very quickly, and how they welcome you, how the students behave etc I work at a school, I'm very proud of it, but I've chosen all my school places based on my gut feeling - and certainly not only on inspection results Also very good advice :)
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 October 2015 - 19:18
My advice would be don't use these boards :) There are far too many school employees basically posing as parents and advertising their schools, despite there being some shockers out there. Use whichschooladvisor.com instead.. A much better option :)
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 October 2015 - 18:48
when did the principal leave? it is hardly October.... Maybe he ran off with Lolacat :lol: I shouldn't find that funny...but...i do :) Where is she? She did at least seem to know what she was talking about in terms of schools.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 October 2015 - 18:47
You need a broker...banks will only sell you their own services which are always quite limited and have fees. Make sure your broker trades on the exchange you want to buy they shares on though, it's likely you'll need an online service unless you want to trade only on the UAE exchange.
lovingthesun
458
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 October 2015 - 18:42
Oh :( Really sorry to hear that, but welcome to Dubai! There are good schools here but places are difficult to find in them as they tend to be oversubscribed. Those two will always have places but there is a reason for that. Hartland might be a good one to look at (no connection but they should have spaces being new)? They've had some odd things go on with leadership according to posts on here but might still be worth a look. Have you looked at Victory Heights as well (though I know they are full mostly)? There are good options but it does take quite a lot of looking. Ranches primary school? Also new?
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 30 September 2015 - 10:43
Such a lovely post :)
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 September 2015 - 07:08
Very strange indeed that posts have been removed from here. Crocus, I think it's great that you're taking the time to do this. The dishy doctors are just a bonus too :)
lovingthesun
458
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 September 2015 - 11:32
The OP didn't ask about NAS... NAS has quite a different reputation from the one that Kings posters portray here but as the old saying goes...fling enough mud. I think it does them no credit though as why do they need to do it?
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 September 2015 - 07:18
Another very happy King's Al Barsha family here :) Wonderful Management, staff are really excellent and the school is inclusive ( a rare commodity in Dubai). Unlike other schools in Dubai (NAS being one of them) Kings wont take on a child that they cannot adequately support. For any parents with Dyslexic children, the support is excellent. Better than anything we have experienced as a family or indeed in my capacity as a teacher in various schools in Dubai. Of course the above is not actually the case. The other "benefits" of Kings over NAS are that Kings has no waiting list and always has places
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 September 2015 - 07:05
I sometimes find these maid threads quite distressing. So why do you read them? Simply ignore........ Because it's not always right to simply look the other way is it...
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 September 2015 - 12:14
I was in the UK a couple of weeks ago and read all about this. The NHS remains, and should remain, a national treasure. The idea that US style health insurance is the way to go is ludicrous. They have one of the most expensive health care systems in the world, why would anyone want to copy that. Unless of course they stood to benefit directly from it.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 September 2015 - 12:11
I sometimes find these maid threads quite distressing.
lovingthesun
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Latest post on 20 September 2015 - 22:54
Of those two... DBS
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 September 2015 - 12:50
There are some really excellent people who will help you :) If you ask at the treatment center there are specialists who will come to your house with a selection of wigs (which sounds scary now but it's just something funky to do...and smile about if you can) and scarves etc. The best wigs aren't itchy at all and look as natural or as funky as you want. I would suggest the shave (they will do that for you too) as that is what it will be anyway, unless you want the crew cut look, which does suit some ladies very well, and others not. I would advise you to do this in your own home though...gives you time and a safe place, and a big mirror. Maybe bring round your manicure people at the same time if you have them done at home...make it a nice thing as much as you can since you have to do it anyway. I am not making light of this..but I hope you can :) lots of love X
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 September 2015 - 09:58
Now or (not really) never is my thoughts on this. They worst thing you could do is stick where you are and grow bitter. Talk to your current managers in a proper profesional but frank way. If they can help, then that's great. If not, then move on. Do it properly but do it for yourself because you'll be a much nicer person to those around you too. Of course I'm sure you're nice now but you know what I mean :) There is never a perfect time to move jobs...until you've done it. Sometimes it's just a change that is needed but it's also about being adventorous in ones life and getting out there. I have done this, and it scared me to death, but it was also sooooo worth it. I think us ladies are sometimes too conservative in our career choices, or it might be just me, but I was so glad when I finally took the plunge.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 September 2015 - 09:54
I thought that with the EXPO things were supposed to be getting busier? I haven't seen much difference to be honest and when I'm out and about it seems much like it ever is.
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 September 2015 - 06:42
To be fair though...i tend to agree with your other points. Isn't Threads part of a larger empire?
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 08 September 2015 - 06:41
We did not have any issues. My child tried on few samples for size which were easy to locate. we got the correct sizes from our counter, stood in line for payment for 10 minutes or so and were out. Found floor staff helpful and courteous even though it was the weekend before schools opened and there was a mad rush. Surprised that you had a bad experience. PS....yes everyone trying on same samples for size may be a tad unhygienic but I am struggling to think of an appropriate and efficient alternative. To the OP, what would you suggest? While the waiting time was long....how else would they let people try on samples if not by making a sample available?
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 08 September 2015 - 05:08
Nord Anglia (Barsh near Arabian Ranches) 100% A*-A in iGCSE this year. These results are for the Dubai branch or overall worldwide Nord Anglia family schools? Dubai. No idea what the other schools got I'm afraid.
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 31 August 2015 - 17:46
Nord Anglia (Barsh near Arabian Ranches) 100% A*-A in iGCSE this year.
lovingthesun
458
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Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 08:11
This kind of thread makes me happy and sad in equal measure. I am always saddened to see how much women "police" other women. What we can wear, at what age, and at what size. How we should behave, it seems to go on and on. My husband says men are nowhere near as catty about other guys and also wouldn't be interested in a thread like this. On the other hand I also see the comments about weight gain during menopause and feel glad that at least we talk. I'm not sure if one goes hand in hand with the other. Either way surely we on here are adults and can live with our choices. I doubt any of us would advocate anorexia and obesity is promoted during education for our own little girls (or boys). Healthy lifestyles being promoted in schools and in the media is needed as the default seems to have become the sofa and the i-Pad?
lovingthesun
458
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 August 2015 - 15:29
I think you need approval (or the school needs to get it) from KHDA for any move up/move down of a grade? I don't think it's automatic.
 
 
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