The Reception class children participated in Christmas festivities at ‘Votaniko Parko,’ in Koropi on Wednesday 11th December, as part of their topic, “Winter Holidays and Christmas.” The children took part in a specially designed programme, prepared by the Christmas elves, to learn about the uniqueness of this holiday. The elves left original and creative missions for our pupils to discover together in a special festive atmosphere of fun and cooperation. The day included games and the creation of a decorative ornament, which the children took away with them as a souvenir of their outing. What fun!

On Thursday, 12 December, our school’s swimming team took part in a swimming competition at ACS School. Seven schools participated, and our team of 15 swimmers from Years 8 and 9 performed incredibly well.

Our swimmers won a total of 13 medals—7 gold, 5 silver, and 1 bronze. This included 11 medals in individual events because of exceptional individual skills and 2 in relay races showcasing a fantastic team spirit.

We are very proud of everyone on the team for their hard work and fantastic achievements. Congratulations to all the swimmers!

Year 5 took a trip to the Ancient Egypt rooms at the National Archaeological Museum on 11th December to build on their learning in History this term and bring it to life.  The children saw artefacts that filled in information about the crucial role of the River Nile and how Egyptians developed farming methods. They saw what the mummification process produced as they wanted to preserve bodies for the afterlife, and they peered at canopic jars for vital organs. It was a memorable experience for all.

From Thursday 5th until Sunday 8th December, our boys' and girls' Over-16 football teams participated in a 4-day tournament hosted by Anatolia School in Thessaloniki. For three consecutive years, we have proudly had at least one team reach the final.

This year, while our boys’ team didn’t make it past the group stage having lost to PIERCE, in their second game they displayed great effort with a 3-1 victory over AFS School. On the other hand, our girls’ team demonstrated outstanding resilience and determination, battling through extreme weather conditions to secure a spot in the final. With two wins (against Campion and PIERCE) and a draw (against St. Catherine's). In the final they faced the host school, Anatolia and despite coming up short after a hard-fought match, our girls were proud to finish in 2nd place—a fantastic achievement!

Special recognition goes to our exceptional centre-back, Stella Nouvaki, who was awarded MVP of the tournament. Additionally, we extend heartfelt congratulations to both teams for their exemplary behaviour, dedication, and incredible efforts throughout the trip.

A big thank you to our boys' coach and devoted teacher, Mr. Strzemiecki, as well as the girls' coach, Mr. Styliatis, for their unwavering support and guidance over the past three years. Their commitment has been instrumental in fostering the teams' growth and success.

On Tuesday, 26th, and Thursday, 28th November, our school proudly hosted an energetic and vibrant two-day mini-football tournament which welcomed over 300 young footballers from Years 5 and 6, representing our school and four other international schools. Both boys and girls took to the pitch with a shared aim: to enjoy the game and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship.

The school grounds buzzed with excitement as teams demonstrated their skills, teamwork, and determination. Each match highlighted the players’ enthusiasm and love for football, showing that the sport is more than just a game—it is a medium for connection, learning, and growth. With every goal scored and every save made, the young athletes embodied the core values of resilience and camaraderie. Players from different schools built new friendships, cheering each other on and proving the power of sport to unite people from diverse backgrounds.

Congratulations to all the young footballers for their outstanding performances! This tournament was not only a display of talent but also a celebration of the joy and values that sport brings to our lives. A heartfelt well done to everyone involved—we look forward to hosting many more such events in the future!

On Monday, 25th November 2024, our Year 6 Greek History pupils embarked on an exciting journey back in time, visiting the Ancient Agora in the heart of Athens. Organised by the Greek Department, this incredible day brought history to life as pupils explored the fascinating evolution of the Ancient Agora through different eras.

The adventure began with a tour of the Ancient Agora, where pupils wandered through the remains of administrative buildings that once upheld ancient democracy, admired grand ancient temples, and imagined the hustle and bustle of the commercial centre. At the Stoa of Attalos museum, pupils were captivated by a variety of artefacts, gaining insight into how these items shaped the everyday lives of ancient Athenians.

The group followed the historic streets of Monastiraki to the Roman Agora, where they gathered, much like the Athenians of old, in the central forum to share their findings and reflections. The final stop was the awe-inspiring Tower of the Winds, the world’s first meteorological station. Pupils were amazed to learn how it combined a weathervane, water clock, and sundials to track time and weather in ancient times.

It was a day brimming with discovery, curiosity, and hands-on learning about ancient Greece. Our pupils returned filled with new knowledge and unforgettable memories of walking in the footsteps of history.

On Tuesday 26th November the MFL and Greek Departments organised an outing for our Year 7 pupils to watch a theatrical adaptation of the world-renowned novel Don Quixote by Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes, at the Kappa Theatre in central Athens. 

The play was in Greek and was tailored for a young audience, incorporating innovative techniques such as live music and elements of shadow theatre. Pupils had the opportunity to explore a unique piece of work of Spanish and international literature, while also honing their Greek language skills.

Throughout the performance they were captivated by the adventures of the idealistic knight, with moments that evoked both laughter and emotion. Their interest was sustained until the end, and everyone left having had an invaluable experience.

On Wednesday 27 November, the Greek Department in collaboration with the Year 11 Pastoral team organised an educational trip for our Year 11 pupils to Elefsina, which was the Cultural Capital of Europe in 2023.

The pupils visited the archaeological site and museum in Elefsina as part of a multi-curricular excursion. This included the sanctuary of Elefsina, which was one of the most important religious centres of the ancient world. The goddess Demeter, goddess of the renewal of nature and the growth of grains, was worshipped there from the Mycenaean Era to the end of the 4th century A.D. 

English-speaking guides told our pupils about Ancient Greek civilisation and practices and informed them about the history of this renowned site, as well as the sacred ceremonies – the secret Elefsinian mysteries that took place there at that time. 

To culminate the day, the pupils visited the centre of Elefsina and enjoyed some free time with their peers. Ιt was an enjoyable trip that combined new knowledge with a well-deserved opportunity for bonding and discovery.

Take a look at the fundraising efforts of one of our year 5 pupils. Jason Blandy recently hiked over 30km in very challenging weather conditions, over two days up Mount Olympus. He and his family did so to raise money for an international children’s charity called ‘Right to Play’. This charitable organisation works to protect, educate and empower children to rise above adversity. Using the power of play, children are helped to stay in school, withstand exploitation, prevent disease, and heal from war and abuse.

As a whole school community, we are exceptionally proud of Jason’s efforts over a gruelling and snow-covered two-day hike. He has already raised a fantastic sum, and we would like to share the link to his page in the case that any of our families would like to donate to Jason’s Just Giving page.

On Wednesday, 27th November, Year 4 took a trip to the Hellenic Cosmos in Tavros, to visit the Salvador Dali exhibition as part of their Year 4 Art curriculum. This exhibition in its interactive form could not fail to inspire and fill the children with awe as they immersed themselves in their surroundings. 

The children were excited to become one with the art around them, and it was truly wonderful to see how such experiences inspire and ignite their curiosity and creativity. All agreed it was well worth seeing and believe it will spur on their own creativity at home and in school.

On Wednesday 20th November, the Greek Department organised an educational trip to Lavrio for our Year 10 pupils. The day started with a visit to the Technological & Cultural Museum of Lavrio, where pupils enjoyed a guided tour of the museum and mining galleries. They had the opportunity to interview former miners from the metallurgical factory and took part in practical workshops, gaining experience and information about ancient mining techniques and the importance of mining in the development of Attica in the old times.

The workshop at the museum added a practical and scientific dimension to their knowledge, deepening their understanding of historical mining practices. Then followed a visit to the ancient theatre of Thoriko, the oldest theatre in Greece, which provided the pupils with a unique insight into the architectural evolution of ancient Greek Theatres.

To complete the day, pupils and teachers went to a local restaurant where they all enjoyed their lunch. It was a day filled with valuable experiences, combining new knowledge and cultural insights!

Friday nights are sometimes turned into disco nights at St Lawrence College for our 9- to 11-year-olds. Dancing away the wintery blues is just what the doctor ordered for these energetic youngsters. And dance they did! With all the latest big tunes to jump around to, as well as a bunch of old classics that get everyone's feet tapping, they had a really enjoyable evening of laughs and good times with all their friends. 

Competitions too, set the heartbeats racing as the children attempted to scoop up prizes for showing their best moves under the watchful eyes of our expert teachers who judged it all. Thank you to all the staff who stayed to supervise the evening and enable the children to have so much fun.

On Thursday 14th November 2024, the Greek Department organised an educational trip for our Year 9 pupils to Herakleidon Museum, in the centre of Athens.  During our visit our pupils enhanced their understanding of the Ancient Greek technology and its significance in shaping modern culture, science, and art. 

The museum featured a variety of displays, including models and artefacts that demonstrate the ingenuity of ancient Greek civilisation. Year 9 pupils engaged with interactive exhibits and explored ancient Greek inventions and innovations.

The whole experience of our visit to Herakleidon Museum not only enriched our pupils’ knowledge but also enhanced their critical thinking about the impact of technology on society. 

On Thursday, 21st November, our school hosted the Boys Under-16 Volleyball Tournament, while our Under-16 Girls Football Team participated in the tournament at St. Catherine's.

The girls had an outstanding performance, winning all three of their matches with an impressive 6 goals scored and only 2 conceded. Their hard work paid off as they were thrilled to receive gold medals and the 1st place trophy after a long, challenging day of matches.

The boys also gave a commendable effort, winning one game and narrowly losing two. All their matches were highly competitive, with each going to a deciding 3rd set. Ultimately, the boys secured 3rd place and are eagerly looking forward to their next competition.

Congratulations to all the players for their dedication and sportsmanship, and a big thank you to the coaches, Ms. Dikaioulia and Mr. Styliatis, for their guidance and support.

On Friday 15th November, the children of SLC junior school put on a wonderful pumpkin display to be proud of. Although the evening festivities for our Autumn Festival could not go ahead due to severe rain, the children and their families nevertheless spent a great deal of time and effort creating the most delightful pumpkins you can imagine. We had a Smurf village overshadowed by the wicked wizard Gargamel, a year 4 class with All Eyes on Us, and even a nod to Christmas in some of the creations on display! 

As always, we thank the families for their enthusiastic involvement in producing a spectacle for the children of our school to admire.