By Alice Curwood, Cross Campus Vice Principal Extra-Curricular Activities and Sport
When we think about our greatest assets, money, relationships and hard work often spring to mind. Yet the most valuable asset of all, the one that allows us to enjoy everything else, is our health. And health doesn’t just happen by chance; it’s shaped by the choices we make each day, beginning with how we move.
At school, physical activity is often associated with Physical Education (PE) and Sport. But movement reaches far beyond PE lessons or competitive fixtures. It is the foundation of independence, confidence and wellbeing – not just for today, but for decades to come. If we don’t use our bodies, we lose their capabilities; if we don’t use them correctly, we risk injury, discomfort and health challenges later in life.
That’s why Bangkok Patana is committed to building movement literacy from the very beginning of a student’s journey. In Primary PE, movement science has been embedded into lessons so that children not only play and compete but also begin to understand how their bodies work. This reflects the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) framework, which emphasises fundamental movement skills and physical literacy as the foundation for both athletic performance and lifelong participation, rather than early specialisation. Physical literacy itself is about competence, confidence, motivation, knowledge and understanding for physical activity, and is increasingly recognised as essential for lifelong health and well-being. In practice, this means teaching children not just how to play, but how to move well and understand their bodies. Gamified challenges ensure learning is fun, while community-focused initiatives help every child see movement as something to be enjoyed for life.
Our partnership with Imprimus Performance brings this vision to life. Together, we have developed an ECA programme built around six fundamental movement patterns: squat, hinge, push, pull, core and locomotion. These skills form the foundation for both sport and daily life, with termly programming carefully structured to prevent overload and instead promote long-term health. Secondary students can join morning training sessions twice a week with the Imprimus team, where they apply these movement patterns to the seasonal and academy sports they are preparing for, ultimately enhancing performance. In addition, students from Year 3 to Year 9 can take part in Imprimus Ignite: Strong Foundations for Young Athletes, a Friday ECA that will continue to run throughout the academic year.
What makes this approach effective is the way it’s been built together. Collaborative professional learning with PE, Sport and Academy staff ensures consistency across the school. Parent seminars and PTG classes bring families into the conversation, reinforcing healthy habits at home. Most importantly, we build trust with our student-athletes, showing genuine care, offering personalised feedback and supporting them through challenges, from injuries to exams.
There is also an important cultural shift happening. Strength and conditioning is no longer about preparing only elite athletes, instead it is about giving every child the confidence to move well, whatever their interests. By setting high standards in coaching, while still making sessions engaging and inclusive, we are breaking down barriers and helping students see that longevity in health is something they can all achieve.
The future is about widening these opportunities further. By sharing case studies, continuing to adjust programmes around the demands of school life, and listening closely to the needs of students and families, we aim to create a movement culture that lasts long after school days are over. The emerging evidence is clear, this approach not only enhances performance but also boosts self-esteem, motivation and exercise habits that carry into adulthood.
Our aim is simple. To help every child control their movement, move well, and eventually move with speed. In doing so, we are setting them up not just for their next match, but for a lifetime of health and longevity.
This month’s theme: ‘Stories from History’. Interview with Stephen Murgatroyd, Head of Libraries What is one of your fondest or […]
The Sky’s the Limit at ServICE 2025
By Caroline Ferguson, Leader of Global Citizenship Curriculum and Community Engagement
Last weekend a team of students from Bangkok Patana School attended the 15th Annual Bangkok ServICE Conference. With over 160 students from 15 international schools across the city, the conference once again delivered on its mission to Inspire, Connect and Empower young people to take meaningful action on global issues.
This year’s theme, The Sky’s the Limit, challenged participants to think boldly and creatively about how they can use their voices and energy to tackle the challenges our world faces. The event included keynote talks, ICE (Inspire, Connect, Empower) experiences with action planning, hands-on workshops, and a vibrant ICE Fair showcasing student-led projects.
The Bangkok Patana delegation brought together students from Years 10 to 13 representing three of our Community Engagement Teams — WeHearU, Interact and You-TH — all of which are dedicated to raising awareness and tackling inequality in health and wealth within the wider Bangkok community.
A highlight of the weekend was the powerful keynote delivered by YiXuan Low (Year 13) and Jitkaew (Plearn) Charoenpiwatpong (Year 12): “Hear Me Out: Raising Awareness about Hearing Disabilities and the Stigma around Them.” Sharing their journey as leaders of WeHearU, they spoke about their project Silent Pathway at Setsatien School, which empowers deaf students by exploring career options while also raising funds to provide access to hearing aids and cochlear implants. Their talk illustrated how deeply personal connections can inspire advocacy, innovation, and long-term change.
Jynna Wongswan (Year 12) also made a big impact by leading a lively “How-To” workshop attended by 40 students. Her session, “Neuroplay: Building Slime Stress Balls”, linked SDG 12 to the issue of mental health, giving participants both insight into fidget toy research and practical stress-management tools to take away.
For many in the Bangkok Patana team, the weekend was as much about connection as it was about learning. “It was an eye-opening experience, and I connected with a lot of new people,” Jynna. “It was a very connecting experience, and I got to bond with new peers from different schools whilst deepening my knowledge of service,” added Amber (Year 13). Lila (Year 11) highlighted the chance to “socialise with people in other schools and make new friends,” while Venice (Year 13) reflected on the inspiring projects she had been introduced to “ServICE this year was very engaging as it introduced me to a lot of service causes such as the BCHF and Grin Green. I was about to learn about their aims, and how they are working to achieve these”.
When it comes to community engagement then, the sky truly is the limit.
#305: Conspiracy Theories – What Parents & Educators Need to Know See you at the Fun Run!
Tiger Athlete Spotlight: Venice Carves Her Own Path on Ice
By Tiger Sports Council
Venice in Year 11 is a talented figure skater who has recently been competing for Thailand in several high profile competitions including the ISI Championships in South Korea. Let’s get to know Venice and how she balances high performance ice skating with her IGCSE’s….
What does it feel like to represent Thailand on the national figure skating team, and how has it influenced your journey as a skater?
Representing Thailand feels like such an honor. It motivates me to work harder, because I know I’m not just skating for myself but for my country.
What is your favourite part of figure skating, whether it’s training, performing or competing?
My favorite part is performing. I love the beauty of figure skating, being able to express myself on the ice and connect with the audience.
You recently competed in the ISI South Korea Competition — what was that experience like for you?
Competing in South Korea was exciting and a little scary as it was my first time representing Thailand, but it was a great first experience and I could learn a lot from that.
What are some of the biggest challenges you face as a teen athlete balancing training, competitions, and school?
The hardest part is time management, especially managing my sleep schedule. Sometimes schoolwork and training clash, so I have to be very organised and disciplined.
What advice would you give to younger skaters who dream of competing at a national or international level?
My advice is to enjoy the journey and not give up when it gets hard. Progress takes time, but consistency pays off.
Looking ahead, what are your main goals in figure skating, and is there a specific competition or achievement you hope to reach?
My main goals are to keep improving my skills and compete in bigger international events. One day, I’d love to qualify for major championships like the Junior Grand Prix.
This term, our Year 7 students have been taking part in an exciting cross-curricular project that combines Art and Science […]
Behind the Bookshelves
What book do you recommend and why?
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke.
Clarke crafts a strange, ethereal setting: a labyrinthine “House” filled with endless halls, statues, and tides that functions both as a mystery and as a metaphor. The world feels mythic yet personal, suspended between allegory and psychological realism.
The brilliance lies in Piranesi’s perspective: innocent, methodical, and reverent towards his environment. His journal entries are full of wonder, humility and logic, inviting the readers to piece together the story behind the story.
At its heart, Piranesi is a meditation on memory, loss, resilience and how environments shape identity. It asks what it is to be human when stripped of context, and how we construct meaning from ruins.
I loved it and was lulled by its melodic rhythm, which carried me through the House with a sense of enchantment. I could not put it down until I had finished it!
What podcast do you recommend we listen to and why?
Doctor, Rangan Chatarjee’s podcast, Feel Better, Live More. He specialises in simplifying health, making complex wellness science easy to understand and apply. His aim is to reduce overwhelm and empower everyday change. He centres his content around a “Mind, Body, Heart” framework addressing mental well-being, physical health and the often overlooked role of human connection. The impact for me has been both practical and emotional: it’s practical because I’ve gained useful tools for everyday life, but it’s emotional because it reminds me of what really matters – health, connection and joy. It leaves me feeling uplifted, inspired and a little more hopeful after each listen.
By Laura MacRitchie, Secondary Music Curriculum Leader
In mid-September, we were very fortunate to welcome Dinah Helgeson to the Bangkok Patana Secondary Music Department. Some of our singers had previously worked with her at the ISB Bangkok International Choral festival the previous weekend.
Over two days of workshops, Dinah guided students through the meaning behind their singing while developing important vocal skills such as posture, technique, projection, and dynamics. With our older students, she explored Does the World Say? by Kyle Pederson in depth, helping the Senior Choir make a powerful emotional connection and perform with exceptional communication.
The workshops concluded with a mini showcase where students performed for one another, celebrating the progress made together. A recording of this showcase is available on our secondary YouTube channel @secondarymusicbangkok patan3363. Photos and videos from the sessions can also be found on our Instagram page @bpssecondarymusic.
Repertoire studied during the workshops included:
Does the World Say? by Kyle Pederson — performed by Year 9 and Senior Choir
Hands are Knockin’ by Kyle Pederson — performed by Year 8 and Senior Choir
Lead with Love by Melanie DeMore — performed by Years 7, 8, 9, and Senior Choir
Diversity Digest is a weekly reflection written by staff from different areas of our school
The International Day of Peace was established by the United Nations in 1981 and first observed in 1982. Each year it invites people worldwide to pause conflict, foster dialogue, and strengthen a culture of non-violence and cooperation. The 2025 theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” calls on individuals and communities to move beyond awareness into action.
At Bangkok Patana, we celebrate this day because it aligns directly with our core value of Global Citizenship. We want students to see themselves as active members of an interconnected world, recognising that their choices, big or small, can nurture understanding, justice, and environmental care. To honour this shared commitment, our community wears blue on a day close to 21st September, a colour symbolising peace and unity across cultures.
Last Day to Pick Up your Bibs! Thank You to Our Sponsors!
Introducing Our Digital Code of Conduct
By Max Hopwood, Leader of Primary Technology
During the first weeks of this term, we introduced a new Digital Code of Conduct for the Primary School. It has been designed, with input from our student digital leaders, and is shaped around our core values of being Safe, Curious and Kind. We hope it will help students use technology responsibly both at school and at home.
The Digital Code of Conduct reminds students about making thoughtful choices online, treating others with respect, and protecting their personal information. It also highlights how to balance technology use with healthy routines. We recommend simple habits at home such as:
Setting clear times for when devices should be used—and when they should be put away.
Making bedrooms screen-free zones, especially at night.
Encouraging breaks from devices to enjoy reading, outdoor play, and family time.
By working together, we can help children grow into confident, responsible digital citizens. Thank you for supporting your child in following the Digital Code of Conduct. Together, we can ensure technology is used in a positive and balanced way.
National Outstanding Youth Award by Chaiyanat (Win) Kuptivej On 20th September, I received the Thai National Youth Award for Technological […]
Patana Page-Turners
This month’s theme: ‘Stories from History’. Interview with Stephen Murgatroyd, Head of Libraries What is one of your fondest or most favourite reading memories?
When I first thought about this, I was not sure I could pin down a favourite. In the end, I managed to narrow it down to three:
Reading to my three boys before bedtime, when they were younger. We are now doing the same with our two granddaughters.
Reading when I shouldn’t … late night shifts to finish books I just could not put down, reading when I should be doing something else, reading when I should be listening to a conversation!
When I read, I get ‘lost’ in the book. A good book is completely different to a great film – when I am reading I can completely zone out and forget about everything, except what is going on in the pages I am turning.
Which fictional character would most like/least like to meet in real life and why?
Often this would be the character in the book I am currently reading, as they are the ones that I am invested in at that time. Thinking back over the books I have read, there are three who come to mind:
Scythe Faraday; an ethical scythe from the book ‘Scythe’ and one who lived exactly as a scythe in the book should. I would love to talk to him about how he is able to resist the power he has been given, yet continues to be both humble and honest – not many people in positions of great power seem able to do this.
Kenneth Moore; the principal in ‘Promise Boys’. Almost the exact opposite of Scythe Faraday and someone I would want to ask the question ‘why?’ Why did an idea and a belief that started off so brightly, and for all the right reasons, turn into something where abuse of power and unnecessarily bad treatment of students led to his untimely murder.
Celestine North; the main character from the book ‘Flawed’. I would love to talk to her about how she managed to get the mental strength to survive all the issues she had to deal with once her perfect life fell apart, and all because of an act of compassion. People who deal with adversity in this way are those I admire greatly.
Why is it important we read ‘stories from history’? Do you have any book suggestions for this theme?
History is one of my favourite subjects – I love learning about the past and there are many examples of great books, which can exist on their own both as a story, as well as helping you learn about a period of history you may not have lived through – this gives you insight and knowledge to aid your understanding of today.
FS/KS1: ‘The Crayon Man’ by Natascha Biebow – about the invention of the first affordable coloured wax crayons, called ‘Crayola’, which are still made today.
Young Adult: ‘A Moment Comes’ by Jennifer Bradbury – a story set around the partition of India in 1947, when the country gained its independence from the British. The story centres around the interrelationship of the main characters, who are Muslim, Sikh and British and how decisions made in a land far away (Britain) had devastating and unforeseen consequences.
Senior Fiction: ‘The Pillars of the Earth’ by Ken Follett – a book set in 12th century England, in the fictional city of Kingsbridge where a cathedral is being built. The story revolves around the feudal system that existed at the time, along with the power the Church wielded, and follows the lives of people involved. It is a great story and gives wonderful insight into the characters’ views and perspectives of what was going on in the story.
FS and KS1 – Recommendations by Carol Ashworth
Patana Page Turners: Stories from History
History is full of incredible stories—and picture books are a wonderful way to bring the past to life for children. This month, we’re turning the pages of beautifully illustrated books that make history engaging, inspiring, and accessible for young readers.
For our youngest readers (ages 2–5)
Little People, BIG DREAMS (Board Book series) By Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Meet extraordinary people from history—scientists, artists, explorers, and activists—through simple, lyrical text and bold, stylish illustrations. Each board book tells the story of a real person’s childhood, showing that big dreams can start small. Perfect for sparking curiosity in even the youngest historians.
Here are some photos of children enjoying a book about Georgia O’Keefe and her big dreams. She was an artist who took inspiration from the beautiful world around her. Children in FS2H were inspired to explore watercolours.
Key Stage 1 Reccomendation (ages 5–7)
Dorothy Vaughan loved things that made sense – especially numbers.
In Computer Decoder: Dorothy Vaughan, Computer Scientist, you can follow Dorothy’s path from math teacher to human computer to computer programmer. But it was not easy for her, because she was an African American woman working during a time of segregation. Find out how she kept working for fairness!
Why these books?
Both choices combine gorgeous illustrations, simple storytelling, and real historical themes. They show children that history isn’t just about dates and facts—it’s full of people, places, and adventures that shape our world. From small beginnings come great things!
Key Stage 2 – Recommendation by Mr Murgatroyd
Any book, set in a historical context, by Michael Morpurgo. He brings the past alive and weaves wonderful stories about times in history, an example of which would be ‘Running Wild’, about the tsunami in December of 2004.
Key Stage 3 – Recommendations by Hannah Lim 7C
The book ’60-Second Genius’ is a history book written by Jon Richards. The captivating bite-size facts, and dynamic, fact packed guide makes exploring history way more fun, accessible by both young and old. In just 60 seconds, readers can learn about the turning points in human civilization. Designed for readers who crave for clarity without sacrificing depth, the book simplifies centuries of global history into one-minute reads.
Recommended by Prompt Vijakkhana Year 7
In Sapiens, Yuval Noah Harari takes us on a journey through the story of humans, showing how we went from simple animals to the most powerful species on Earth. The book explains how things like stories, money, and religions helped people work together and build societies. It’s not just about facts or dates, but about the big ideas that shaped our past. Reading Sapiens makes you think about where we come from and how those old choices still affect us today. It’s an amazing way to learn about history because it helps us understand why the world is the way it is
Key stage 4 and 5 – Recommended by Scarlett Sloane:
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is emotionally powerful and creatively written. The book is set in Nazi Germany during World War II, and what makes it stand out is that it’s narrated by Death. Death’s perspective gives the story a haunting, reflective tone, and it adds depth to the way we see the characters and the events around them.
One thing I really liked was how the book plays with time. It skips around a bit. Sometimes you’re told something will happen before it actually does, and then you see it unfold later from a different perspective. It’s clever without being confusing, and it keeps you engaged as you piece things together.
The writing is accessible, but still poetic in places, and the emotional impact is huge. It’s sad, yes, but also heartwarming and full of moments that make you think. For KS5 students, The Book Thief offers more than just a historical setting. It’s a chance to explore themes like mortality, memory, and the power of words. It’s one of those books that stays with you.
Key Stage 5 – Recommended by Ms Newman:
Pachinko is a powerful multi-generational novel set between 1910 and the 1980s, beginning with Japan’s annexation of Korea and following a Korean family’s journey through war, migration, and identity. What I found most compelling was the way Lee explores the lives of different family members, each shaped by the historical forces around them. I knew very little about this period before reading the novel, and it opened my eyes to the long-lasting impact of colonialism and discrimination in East Asia. It’s a brilliant choice for KS5 students interested in how personal stories can illuminate broader historical truths. I’m travelling to Seoul over half term, which feels especially exciting after reading Pachinko. Literature like this encourages us to look beyond our own context and consider the stories that history often overlooks.
When we think about our greatest assets, money, relationships and hard work often spring to mind. Yet the most valuable […]
Year 7 Global Impact Project: Art Meets Science
Mihaela-Marcela Marcovici, Secondary Art Teacher
This term, our Year 7 students have been taking part in an exciting cross-curricular project that combines Art and Science to raise awareness of marine conservation. The Global Impact Project asks students to think deeply about the ways in which human actions affect marine ecosystems, and how we, as a community, can make a positive difference.
In Science lessons, students have been learning about the biodiversity of marine life and the environmental challenges facing our oceans. Building on this knowledge, in Art they are translating these ideas into creative, functional sculptures. Each student group is designing and constructing a wire sculpture of a marine creature found in Thai waters—from whale sharks to turtles and jellyfish. These sculptures have a unique purpose: they will serve as collection points for bottle tops and other recyclable materials. By combining function and form, students are producing artworks that not only look striking but also promote sustainability in a very practical way. You can have a quick glimpse of their work in progress in the photographs taken during the lessons.
One of the most impressive aspects of this project has been the way Year 7 students are collaborating across disciplines. They are drawing on scientific research to inform their artistic choices and often explain to their colleague and art teachers why a specie is unique. To help bring their designs to life, the young artists have also been making use of technology, accessing Sketchfab to explore 3D models of their chosen marine creatures.
I have been particularly inspired by the teamwork shown so far as the classroom has been filled with lively discussion, problem-solving and a genuine sense of shared purpose. It is wonderful to see Year 7 students embracing both the creative challenges and the responsibility of working on a project that connects to global issues.
The Global Impact Project is not just about making art—it is about encouraging young people to see themselves as active members of a wider community. Through their sculptures, our students are taking part in a conversation about sustainability, recycling, and protecting marine ecosystems. By combining knowledge, creativity, and innovation, they are proving that even at a young age, they can contribute to a more thoughtful and environmentally conscious future.
We look forward to seeing the finished sculptures on display, ready to collect recyclables and spark important conversations. This project is a true example of what happens when creativity and science come together—and our Year 7 students should be proud of what they are achieving.
In mid-September, we were very fortunate to welcome Dinah Helgeson to the Bangkok Patana Secondary Music Department. Some of our […]
Patana Participates
National Outstanding Youth Award
by Chaiyanat (Win) Kuptivej
On 20th September, I received the Thai National Youth Award for Technological Innovation and Careers awarded by His Majesty King Rama X and the Thailand Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. It’s significant not only because it’s National Youth Day, but also the birthdays of King Rama V and King Rama VIII. The award is intended to celebrate the achievements of the youth, in categories ranging from sporting to technological development. I was awarded for my accomplishments in the RiceSense: an IoT device that assists with water measurement, designed to make smart and sustainable farming easy for farmers to transition to, whilst saving on resources like water. It aims to bolster my other project, Future of Good Life, in growing low carbon rice farming to become something nationwide.
During the ceremony, I was also given the opportunity to present my work in front of the representative of the King. It was truly a surreal opportunity, and I thank the ministry for giving me this opportunity. It was very insightful to hear the representative’s feedback on my project, what I could do in the future, and where improvements can be made. I’m determined to continue to develop this project such that I can increase the impact of my project even further, continuing to develop not only the technological aspect, but also the range of farmers I reach.
National Outstanding Youth Award
By Vachiravich (Turbo) Phantratanamongkol, 13Y
I am greatly privileged to receive a royal recognition in receiving the National Outstanding Youth Award in the Social Development (Education) category.
The award presentation was part of the 40th anniversary celebration of Thailand’s National Youth Day, organised by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Celebrated every year on September 20, National Youth Day commemorates the birthdays of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII), two monarchs who ascended to the throne at a young age and left a legacy of wisdom, transformation, and compassion.
This award reflects my personal journey in mathematics, alongside the IB Global Youth Action Fund Award, which supports our youth-led initiatives: Brighter Future and Brightly Beaming. These projects operate a dual model, combining an e-library website and a youth publishing house. Together, we provide under-resourced children with both free e-books and printed materials, each with QR codes linking to the digital library.
I am grateful to the Mathematics Department for their guidance through challenges and to the Computing Department for teaching me website coding skills. I sincerely appreciate the support from the Thai Department, which made this achievement possible.
I accept this honour with heartfelt gratitude for His Majesty’s benevolence, which inspires me to continue learning, growing, and contributing to marginalised communities in meaningful ways.
Thailand Equestrian Inter-School Sport Championship 2025
By Monchaya Khuptawinthu, Parent
Bangkok Patana students performed well at the recent Equestrian Inter-School Sport Championship. This event was a significant gathering for students across Thailand, with hundreds of riders and horses participating from various schools nationwide.
The team from Bangkok Patana achieved remarkable success, securing the following awards:
* Gold medal – Individual showjumping 13-15 yrs (Maethus)
* Gold medal – Individual dressage 13-15 yrs (Maethus)
* Bronze medal – Team showjumping (Ilda, Leo, Maethus)
Most notably, Bangkok Patana as a whole was honoured with the Over All Winner(เจ้าเหรียญทอง) award, the most highly coveted recognition in the competition, for achieving the highest accumulated gold medals. These accomplishments are the result of countless hours and years of dedicated effort and commitment from our students.
Diversity Digest is a weekly reflection written by staff from different areas of our school The International Day of Peace […]
School Announcements and Upcoming Events
Updates from the Nurses Office
With the onset of the rainy season, the risk of infectious diseases increases significantly, particularly among children. Parents and guardians are urged to take heightened precautions to protect their children’s health.
Common Rainy Season Diseases
Respiratory infections such as Influenza and RSV: Colds and flu spread easily in crowded places during wet weather, leading to coughs, sore throats, and fever.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD): A viral illness that spreads quickly in schools. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, and rashes or blisters on hands, feet, and inside the mouth.
Dengue Fever: Transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, dengue causes high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, and rash.
Prevention
If your child is diagnosed with a communicable disease, please provide a medical certificate to your child’s class teacher and email a copy to nurse@patana.ac.th
Term 1 Secondary Music Events for your Diary
3rd – 4th October KS3 Strings Festival – Year 7, 8 and 9 strings students
8th October – Strings Showcase – KS3 String Ensembles, Orchestra
25th October – Solo Festival, open to Year 1- Year 13 Students
