CGA Community News: December

As CGA concludes an exciting 2024, activities and celebrations were hosted to bring together students and families from around the globe. These events not only marked the year's end but also showcased CGA's ongoing growth and accomplishments.

Thriving Thursday Webinar offers Exam Preparation Tips

CGA’s Thriving Thursday webinars promote dialogue around student well-being and personal development. In a recent session, Mrs. Kate Thompson, CGA’s Director of Pastoral Care & Student Leadership, joined student leaders Emma and Rikuto, along with Jessica Silcock, Chief Brand and Community Officer, for a session exploring effective techniques for exam preparation.

The session offered practical advice and strategies tailored to students at various stages of their exam preparation journey, whether they were taking exams for the first time or had prior experience. Participants gained valuable insights and actionable tips to boost their confidence for exams.

Virtual Social Days bring together Students across the World

CGA’s Virtual Social Days provide a platform for students to meet and build friendships, all while sharing memorable experiences with fellow students from around the world. These events play a key role in creating a supportive, global network and community among students.

CGA hosted two virtual sessions in November, offering an opportunity to connect and engage in a series of fun online school activities. The events featured ice-breakers, online Pictionary, and interactive quizzes designed to foster a sense of community among students.

CGA Hosts First In-Person UK Meet Up

CGA hosted its first in-person meet up in the UK, bringing together CGA families from across Europe and around the world. The two-day event offered families a unique opportunity to explore some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including the Natural History Museum, Royal Albert Hall, and Buckingham Palace. On the second day, attendees enjoyed a visit to the University of Oxford.

The meet up provided an engaging and enjoyable experience for all participants, with families not only visiting historic sites but also connecting with CGA faculty members who were present at the event.

Students in ANZ meet for End of the Academic Year Social Activities

CGA students from Sydney, Melbourne, and New Zealand had opportunities to connect, celebrate, and close out the academic year for in-person meet ups in November.

In Melbourne, families gathered for a delightful dinner with the CGA Melbourne Team. In New Zealand students embraced adventure with an exciting treetop experience at Tree Adventures in Woodhill Forest, tackling courses designed to challenge their motor skills and foster teamwork.

Sydney-based students enjoyed a fun-filled day, starting with a delicious lunch and a gingerbread house-making session at the CGA Sydney office.

To top it off, some students immersed themselves in a spooky yet festive Christmas escape room adventure at Strange World Escape Rooms.

2024 Aoraki Prizegiving

CGA Aoraki Campus held its annual Prizegiving ceremony on December 2nd, celebrating the academic, extracurricular, and leadership achievements of its 2024 Aoraki students, as well as their contributions to sports, technology, and the community. These awards highlight the students' dedication, passion, and commitment to personal growth and learning.

The Aoraki Prizegiving marks the conclusion of CGA's 2024 academic year. Looking ahead, the Aoraki House names will transition to Sheppard House and Rutherford House, an evolution to reflect CGA’s student body and their interests across the campus. Additionally, the new student leadership team was announced, with Emma and Rikuto stepping into the roles of Head Girl and Head Boy for the Aoraki Campus.

Learn more about student awards for Highest Mark in the World for 2024 Pearson exam IGCSE and A Level exam results.

Japan's Christmas Celebration

CGA Japan celebrated its Christmas Party at their new office, bringing together 20 participants, including students from Grades 4 to 10, their parents, and siblings.

The day was filled with festive fun, exciting activities, and opportunities for students in Japan to connect. Among the highlights was the gingerbread house contest, where students worked in teams to design and build creative houses, making the judging session particularly exciting. The Christmas Jeopardy Quiz engaged students as they learned about various holiday traditions and histories around the world.

Other activities, such as the Marshmallow Game and Beer Pong, encouraged teamwork and strategy among the participants. The event also welcomed new families, fostering meaningful connections and ensuring that everyone had a delightful day.

CGA's School Trip to Vietnam

CGA organised a trip to Vietnam at the end of the academic year, which took place in December. The trip lasted 11 days, offering students an incredible opportunity for cultural immersion and exploration.

The itinerary included visits to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Da Nang, and Hoi An. The trip also had an opportunity for local CGA Vietnamese students to join the group, quickly making friends and engaging with the trip students. The local students also joined for dinner and night bus tour experience, further enriching the experience and connections with fellow CGA students.

Read Deputy Principal Ronan Kearney's highlights from the trip.

We eagerly look forward to 2025, poised to continue hosting inspiring initiatives and opportunities for students to connect, learn, and achieve their full potential. The coming year promises to bring new milestones, and we are excited to embark on another journey of growth and discovery with our global community.