Simone N | ExpatWoman.com
 

Simone N

Simone N
225
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Latest post on 26 August 2011 - 11:00
Morning ladies, Reception children only need to be in school uniform with their lunch box and water bottle on day 1. Most children came with their lunch box and bottle in a larger backpack or wheelie bag last year. There is plenty of room in the shared free flow room for big bags and all their other bits go into their cubbies. Make sure you have the correct first day as it's a spilt start for the Reception year. Don't bother with the school backpack, you will need the school PE kit bag though. Your new teacher will explain everything on day 1 and your class rep will be on hand to answer questions too. I posted a far longer post a while ago about school uniform in the schools section. Good luck!
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2011 - 11:11
Seashells Nursery is fabulous, my DD went there for two years. It's not daycare as such, but rather a nursery school. It's very popular though so I'd get on the phone today to see if there are any places. Definitely go on the waiting list if there aren't any places as my DD moved up quickly.
Simone N
225
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2011 - 11:09
My son was at the Barsha campus, I have friends with children at the Garhoud campus and they say it's a similar set-up. It's all a bit vague on the first day but they have older students from the high school directing the parents and children to their bit of the school.
Simone N
225
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2011 - 11:01
I honestly wouldn't worry about it as there is still a huge range of reading ability at this age. Some children will have left Reception only reading a few words, others will be on chapter books and then there will be others at every stage in between. Perhaps share your concerns with your son's teacher as soon as school starts. Is he moving to a new school?
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2011 - 10:57
Mawakeb have a fairly relaxed approach to school shoes. When my DS was there, he wore black school shoes on a normal day and trainers on PE days but other students wore all kinds of things. You walk your child to their classroom in KG1/2 and Year 1 and pick them up from their playground. HTH
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 August 2011 - 11:45
It may well be that they have their hearts set on a particular school or want a school near where they live. I can imagine that there are schools that are next to impossible to get in to even now.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 August 2011 - 11:39
This summer has flown by, I can't believe that we're back to school in two weeks. Really must get on with the dreaded summer scrapbook LOL
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 August 2011 - 11:27
The new triple play is a disaster. We had a frozen box for three weeks in July. Have you tried the call centre on 101 (I think)? Whilst it took ages for someone to come out and sort out our set top box, I found the call centre people quite knowledgable.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 August 2011 - 11:23
We brought loads of little boxes back to the UK with us this trip and they all survived in the suitcase.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 August 2011 - 11:21
I like Emirates myself but I always travel with my children into Birmingham. If it was just me into a London airport and a £200 price difference, I'd go with BA.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 August 2011 - 11:18
It's been a long time since we were in Oman so can't help with schools but I'd move back there in a heartbeat. I have such fabulous memories of my childhood. Good luck!
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 09:23
It's on my list as a friend had recommended it to me. Must have been good if you read it all in one go! Apparently her new one, [i'>Afterwards [/i'>(?) is meant to be even better. <em>edited by Simone N on 19/06/2011</em>
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 08:47
I know that Seashells Nursery was talking about adding FS2 last year. Haven't been in touch with them since DD left but might be worth asking them too.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 08:45
Our uniform is not changing for the new academic year - they have added a logo onto the dresses and shirts but it's not compulsory to have these (i.e. the older uniform is fine). Stitches will be able to provide: Dresses Boys shirts Boys shorts PE t-shirt (with house colour band, check which house your child is in) PE shorts School jumper/cardigan School hat, various types (not sure what age your child is but the caps are popular with older boys and the full brim ones with everyone else, esp the younger years) School book bag (compulsory) School kit bag (compulsory) School bag (optional) School towel (optional) They also have shoes, socks, hair bands for the girls. Year 3 and above need school swimmers (optional for younger years), blue sports shirt if they play on any school teams (footie, rugby, cricket etc), blue sports socks as before. If your child is going into Year 3 or above, I'd wait until term starts to buy the extra blue sports kit. My DC have had all their uniform from Stitches, no complaints other than the girl's dresses being very thin (not much one can do about that!). I buy school shoes, trainers, football boots, socks, hair bands for DD, lunch box, water bottle and large school bag elsewhere (Clarks, M&S for socks, ASDA for hair things). Jebel Ali also has a second hand uniform 'shop' run by volunteers. They have just had a sale and will do a couple more at the start of the new term. Handy for extras esp if you have Reception aged children that wear through everything or experiment with the shiny school scissors!
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 08:28
Oooooooooohhhh, so excited to hear this! Can't wait for a bit of UK weather. Brollies at the ready!
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 08:22
Hello, finally managed to log in :) Yes, I'm still here. Best bet would be to email me again simonegroups at gmail.com or you may have my other email address that is my real name. Thanks to all the lovely ladies who mentioned the thread too!
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 June 2011 - 20:24
I'd write back and say that as per the KHDA rules you'd be happy to provide a post-dated cheque for the first day of term and cc the KHDA. You've paid the re-enrolment fee so you've fulfilled your obligation to the school.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2011 - 13:11
Medcare certainly have an A&E department and gynae on call.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2011 - 09:52
Think I have mentioned this 'elsewhere' too but how fabulous for you and the whole clan, Claire. Enjoy those rolling green hills for us and the M&S food hall...Best of luck! x
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2011 - 09:49
Borders have some with whiteboard markers on sale separately, not too sure of if they have very little ones. If you are anywhere near (or happy to travel to) the Maktoum Bridge, Emirates Trading will definitely have everything you need. Can give you directions.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2011 - 09:46
It's Dubai's new green initiative...
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2011 - 09:42
Canary Wharfers are checking to see if they can afford to pay their DEWA bills if they relocated to Al Barari...
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2011 - 07:03
A gentle bump with one's lightsaber...
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 16:49
Speed Queen, you were lucky with that one rollerskate! We had to share a hat and a pair of those dodgy green flipflops between 6.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 16:38
I'm British and enjoy neither excessive heat nor sun exposure. However, I am intelligent enough to realise that life on earth requires both (in varying degrees) and that children can have a few minutes run around outside with no ill effects as long as certain conditions are met. To be honest, I think the pick up from school is far more dangerous for all concerned than the short playtime.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 16:21
They have the book in Park & Shop but no cards (just the pack that comes with the book). We got one yesterday and there were quite a few there. Can I ask where you found the cards? My son has had me all over town looking for the packs!
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 12:22
Not a swap exactly, by Feline Friends have their donated books for sale at ARTE, Times Square this coming Friday. Books are really reasonable (Dhs 10 each, I think) and if you get there early they have some great titles.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 June 2011 - 09:24
It would be wonderful if the Arabic was an actual translation of the English. We've found some really random words (did wonder if the translator was a bit bored of 'Open the pack, add an egg...' and wanted to mix it up a bit).
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 June 2011 - 09:01
Unfortunately, it's a case of shouting louder than everyone else when it comes to school places. I know people who have been on the tail end of school waiting lists (particularly earlier years) who have hounded the registrar on a weekly basis in order to get a place. The strong, silent approach and waiting one's turn simply doesn't work here when it comes to schools. Personally, I would be on the phone to the school explaining that you're due to land any day and need to know ASAP. Are you brining your children with you? If yes, then tell the school that too (for assessment purposes). If this approach doesn't work, then I'm afraid arohadxb is right and you'll just have to wait it out until the beginning of term. It [i'>is [/i'>common for situations to change over the summer months and families don't always come back to take up their children's places. Also there will be parents who have another first choice school that they are waiting to hear from and may have taken a contingency place in the meantime. Edited to add: Sounds a little odd that 'I'm afraid arohadxb is right' but you get what I mean... <em>edited by Simone N on 02/06/2011</em>
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 19:57
You have to present ID to the Western Union office to collect money - DH misspelt my name once (one letter was incorrect) and they refused to release the money to me. We've used them for years and found it very safe. You can collect your money within 30 mins. Thomas Cook (Moneygram) are also very good, in my experience.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 15:30
I hope the people saying they don't take other people's children realise that [i'>diya [/i'> (and God forbid any of us find themselves in this situation) is payable regardless of the relationship one has to the deceased, if you are deemed responsible for the death. You might want to have a look at the article about a poor chap who has recently been helped by the Dubai Police. I'll see if I can find a link.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 May 2011 - 07:04
Whilst you may end up paying the overstay fines, you can appeal via the court at Immigration. I helped a friend to do this once and she paid about 50% (off the top of my head) of the fines. It was quite a complex, drawn out process though, I seem to remember it took us several days and going back and forth to get things sorted out.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 May 2011 - 21:43
Pliers would also do the job. Scissors too at a push.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 May 2011 - 21:36
Screwdriver works a treat.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 May 2011 - 14:49
Marmite, crumpets and Horlicks - recipe for Grandma's house heaven!!! People have been known to send me Marmite care packages esp the squeezy ones :)
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 May 2011 - 16:22
If we had an oil well in our garden, we'd probably keep going as long as it was safe for me and the new baby. I'm from a family of 6 and DH is from a family far, far larger. We are very blessed to have two amazing children and we treasure each and every day with them.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 May 2011 - 20:03
I don't think it will work for your purposes, MommyOficially, as it is a proper wooden cot rather than a collapsible travel cot. It's a beautiful cot though complete with canopy. We would love for it to go to a good home via a charity, if anyone else has any contacts.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 10:01
A dear friend of mine has left the country this morning and we met standing in a queue waiting for Wilbur Smith to sign our books :) :( (hugs) PS, Simple, check your email. Ah thanks. She'll be back no doubt, if my (in)famous predications come true!
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 09:58
It is a difficult place to make friends but can be done. As other people said, you've just got to spread your net and take a few risks (as in start the conversation first, rather than putting yourself in a dangerous situation). A dear friend of mine has left the country this morning and we met standing in a queue waiting for Wilbur Smith to sign our books :)
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 09:09
I'm impressed! Workmen usually just leave a trail of destruction behind them around here :)
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 09:32
The Economic Dept may well release this type information via their customer services section for a specific company (through the front door on the right, if memory serves me correctly). I should imagine you will need to provide a reason for requesting the information. I know that the Economic Dept has a touch screen system near the front doors where you can search for a particular company name/trade license but I don't recall what information is given there apart from expiry date of trade license, PO BOX, that type of thing.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 09:27
The Organic supermarket used to stock Dr Bronner's but don't appear to have it anymore. I haven't been able to find another form of castile soap here and tend to bring it back from the UK.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 06:40
Your physical location and telephone number. I guarantee you that no how detailed your location is on the airway bill, they will still call and ask for it when the package arrives!
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 08:59
The 60 days notice is standard in Nakheel contracts. Surprised you didn't receive a notice from them though. We've been renting a Nakheel property for 8 years and get our notice delivered to our door approx 90 days in advance. I used to sign for the notice but don't any more.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 08:29
There is a way round the amazon.com/.co.uk issue (allegedly!) - do a google search :)
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 10:31
I think it depends on school policy. I drop both DC to their classrooms and collect from the same place. Perhaps check with the school as why this system is implemented. It may well be a class size/foot traffic issue that makes it impossible to allow all the parents right up to the classroom door. Just to add that both my children have 'outside' doors (as do all the classrooms within the school) so as parents, we don't actually enter the school building at any point. The teacher waits at the door for any questions or just to chat.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 10:28
Each school is slightly different but yes last few days of June are when the majority of BC schools close for the hols. I wouldn't plan on flying out over the weekend beginning 30th June ;)
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 08:41
I was always taught that there is no such thing as a stupid question. If I can help, I do so. If not, I move on.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 08:37
I rang them - it's two 'private' cars per residence visa. Different rules for those not requiring a visa and companies.
Simone N
225
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 07:22
I thought expats were only allowed to register two 'personal' cars each.
 
 
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