https://www.royalgazette.com/education/news/article/20250213/teaching-and-education-talent-recognised-in-awards/  Teaching and education talent recognised in awardsSarah LaganCreated: Feb 13, 2025 07:51 AM0 CommentsSaluting excellence: Colm Singleton, left, head of office at Allied World Bermuda, D’Vonne Ramsay, Katiuska Guerrero, Elizabeth Pacheco, Tanika White, Natalie Roberts, Maha Turner, Shacolbi Basden and Albert Benson. Missing in the picture is Tamikia Allen (Photograph supplied)The Bermuda Education Network is to recognise public schools’ top teaching talent in its annual awards.This year’s event recognises several “outstanding programmes and initiatives” launched in Bermuda’s public schools in 2024.Renamed as the Teaching Awards, the goal of the event this year is to highlight exceptional teaching and bring attention to successful new initiatives that are “worthy of emulation”.Becky Ausenda, the founder of the BEN, thanked Allied World for sponsoring the awards and said: “These educators play a crucial role in shaping the future, and through the Teaching Awards we aim to showcase their invaluable contributions.”2025 finalistsWest Pembroke Primary School — Community Action Project Solution with Home Charity: Albert Benson and Shacolbi BasdenPurvis Primary — Dual Language Programme: D’Vonne Ramsay and Katiuska GuerreroEast End Primary — Music Programme: Tamikia AllenSt George’s Preparatory School — Reading Teacher: Natalie RobertsVictor Scott Preschool — Bright Start Programme: Maha TurnerNorthlands Primary — After School Netball Club: Tanika WhiteWhitney Institute Middle School —Transportation Project: Beth PachecoColm Singleton, the head of Allied World Bermuda, said: “Education is fundamental for the next generation to thrive locally and globally. Allied World is honoured to once again sponsor the BEN Teaching Awards. Best of luck to each finalist.”A selection committee made up of experienced educators from elementary through to senior schools will meet the finalists to review their submissions over the next three weeks.The winner will be announced at a prize-giving ceremony on February 20.A spokesman for the BEN said that changes were made to the selection process this year. Nominations of new programmes and projects were sought from public school leaders and input came from leaders across the system about educators worthy of recognition.The spokesman said: “BEN’s mission is to provide inspiration to teachers, and the goal of these awards is to discover exemplary new projects and programmes, as well as highlight the achievements of the educators responsible.“We accept that there are many ways to define who is an outstanding educator and we may in future try to introduce a students’ choice in order to recognise different types of contribution.“This new approach has resulted in some very exciting candidates and the selection committee will have a tough choice choosing a winner.”EvaluationRather than applying rigid criteria, the BEN Teaching Awards selection committee members will evaluate each entry holistically, considering its unique impact in one or more of the following areas:Enhancing resources: improving tools and materials in a specific content areaEngaging students: creating new, dynamic experiences that captivate learnersInspiring learning: motivating students of all backgrounds and abilities to reach their full potentialInnovative teaching: demonstrating creative and effective teaching strategies that benefit both students and educatorsFostering collaboration: encouraging teamwork among educators and community partners

https://www.royalgazette.com/education/news/article/20250211/northlands-pupils-embrace-a-day-of-play/ Northlands pupils embrace a day of playSékou HendricksonCreated: Feb 11, 2025 01:01 PM (Updated: Feb 11, 2025 06:03 PM)1 CommentNorthlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)A Pembroke-based primary school had pupils on the move when they celebrated Global Play Day.Northlands Primary School had an array of activities for youngsters, including puzzles and trampolines, to motivate them to be active and think critically.The pupils had the opportunity last week to step away from lessons and screens to play and explore with their peers.They were also encouraged to bring their favourite non-electric toys to share with friends.Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Global Play Day, which was observed on February 5, was established to promote unstructured playtime and its crucial role in childhood development.La-Keesha Bean, a counsellor at the school, said: “At Northlands Primary School, we are incredibly proud to be the only school in Bermuda participating and registered in Global Play Day.”She added: “The fact that Global Play Day coincides with National School Counselling Week, between February 3 and 7, further strengthens our focus on wellbeing and ensuring every child thrives.“Northlands Primary School continues to champion the power of play in education and everyday life.“We are committed to creating a fun, dynamic and enriching experience for all.”Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)Northlands Primary School pupils celebrate Global Play Day (Photograph supplied)

https://www.royalgazette.com/education/news/article/20250121/public-school-drive-helps-northlands-primary/Public school drive helps Northlands PrimaryAlva SolomonCreated: Jan 21, 2025 03:27 PM (Updated: Jan 22, 2025 08:20 AM)0 Comments New supplies: Northlands Primary School pupils Kayla Medeiros, Nicholas Vicente and Ancilla DeSouza examine the items which were donated by Support Public Schools Bermuda (Photograph by Akil Simmons)Pupils of a school in Pembroke wore bright smiles when a group of supporters to schools across the island donated new supplies.The gifts to Northlands Primary School from Support Public Schools Bermuda included stationery that will be used by P3 and P6 students.The handover was part of a two-day exercise in which the group planned to donate $31,085 of goods to schools around the island, thanks to the contributions of supporters, which included the Green family.Tamica Darrell, the acting principal of Northlands Primary, thanked the group for the donation, which she said would make a lasting impact on the school.She added: “These contributions play a vital role in enriching the learning experience and ensuring that every child has the tools they need to succeed academically.“Beyond their generous donations, SPS goes above and beyond by organising and notifying schools about additional donated items from companies and organisations as they become available, a truly remarkable and thoughtful effort.”Stationery support: Juliana Snelling, second right, founder Support Public Schools Bermuda, and supporters Deanne Hart, left and Chelsea Cooke (Photograph by Akil Simmons)She said the group’s dedication to addressing resource gaps aligned perfectly with Northlands Primary’s mission to empower students to focus on their education and dream big.Ms Darrell encouraged other organisations and residents to support similar schemes, which she said have direct and meaningful impacts on the lives of children and their future.“Together, we can make a profound difference,” she added.This year Butterfield Bank donated $10,000 towards the programme.Empowering young people: pupils and staff of Northlands Primary School with officials of Support Public Schools Bermuda, Butterfield Bank and Butterfield & Vallis (Photograph by Akil Simmons)Jody Feldman, the bank’s managing director in Bermuda, said: “We are proud to play our part in purchasing necessary supplies to help enrich the learning experience in Bermuda’s schools.“Having worked with the Support Public Schools team since the beginning, we have seen the positive impact these contributions have had for students and teachers alike.“We remain committed to investing in the future of our community and empowering our young people to thrive.”The Green family have contributed $5,000 towards the venture this year and a spokesman said the family truly supported the initiative.He added: “We are pleased to continue our commitment for a project that directly benefits Bermuda's primary school students, through resources that can enhance learning and promote success in public school classrooms for the teachers and students.”This year, Butterfield & Vallis donated $5,000 towards the drive.Takeysha Atwell, a human resource strategist at the food distribution company, said the business had supported the programme since 2021.She noted: “By providing essential school supplies to public schools, we aim to ensure every child has the tools needed to thrive and enjoy the learning experience.“We are honoured to contribute to this impactful cause, knowing that these investments help cultivate beautiful minds and build a vibrant, empowered community.”Juliana Snelling, an organiser and founder of SPS, said: “Education is the best means to promoting socio-economic equality and positive educational outcomes — but not all schools are equal.“Bermuda’s public school students don’t have access to the same resources as those at private schools.“Our mission is to close that gap and provide essential resources for public school students to thrive and succeed in their educational endeavours.”Ms Snelling thanked the organisation’s longstanding and new supporters whom she noted generously purchased and donated the supplies.She said the group’s second-hand goods drive had been “incredibly successful” as donations, which included computer equipment, printers, office chairs and supplies, were handed out to all levels of public schools.Ms Snelling added: “From our humble beginning in 2018, and now celebrating our eighth year, we have managed to supply almost $600,000 of new supplies as well as hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of second-hand supplies.”She said the group’s work was testament to the corporate and private individuals who believed in its mission and in making a tangible difference in the lives of children attending Bermuda’s public primary schools.

https://bernews.com/2024/12/youth-shine-grundy-photography-competition/  Youth Photography Contest Winners AnnouncedDecember 10, 2024 | 0 CommentsOn Thursday [Dec 5] a crowd of over 80 students, teachers, family members, sponsors, and judges gathered at the National Museum of Bermuda [NMB] for the Grundy Youth Photography Competition prize giving and exhibit opening.A spokesperson said, “In memory of Dr. Reg Grundy, AC, OBE, whose photographic legacy and passion for Bermuda live on in his work, the late Mrs. Joy Chambers Grundy and NMB established the Dr. Reg Grundy Annual Youth Photography Competition in 2019. Open to all local photography enthusiasts between 7 and 18, the competition is designed to inspire the next generation of photographers and encourage an appreciation for Bermuda’s natural and cultural environment.“A panel of local judges: Lisa Howie, Founder of Black Pony Gallery & Co-founder of Atlantic Arthouse and NMB Education Consultant, Dr. Deborah Atwood, NMB Curator, and Chinni Mahadevan, Reg Grundy Photographic Libraries Curator, had a challenging time choosing the 27 finalists hundreds of submissions submitted by 25 local schools and homeschooled students.”Guest judge Lisa Howie shared: “”As a first-time juror for the competition, I was honoured to review the thoughtful compositions at all age levels. In the submissions we saw artistic consideration of subject matter, lighting, shape and balance, plus good words to explain why or how the picture was taken. Taking time to craft the image with specific lighting or to speak with those in the portrait, led to meaningful outcomes that all point to youthful photography talent in Bermuda. Congratulations to all who submitted. Keep making pictures!”Dr. Atwood shared: “The importance of youth sharing their perspectives and having their art displayed on the walls of their National Museum cannot be overstated. Their viewpoints offer a fresh and dynamic lens through which to see Bermuda, infusing Commissioner’s House with new energy, enriching the experience for all who visit. Access to museums is vital for young minds, as they ignite creativity and fosters curiosity. At NMB, we are committed to making young people feel welcome. One of the ways we aim to achieve this is by celebrating and showcasing their remarkable work and unique perspectives.”A spokesperson added, “Students submitted photos under the themes People of Bermuda, Bermuda Buildings and Bermuda Wildlife & Nature in three age categories, 7-10, 11-14 and 15-18. Winners received Iron Kids Accounts at Clarien Bank [amounts between $500 and $200 based on age group], runners-up received $150 gift cards to Brown & Co. stores, and the school with the most submissions [based on percentage] – Bermuda Institute – won a $1,500 gift certificate to A.F. Smith for school supplies. Winners and runners-up photos are on display on the second floor of Commissioner’s House at NMB, with honorable mentions also featured on the NMB website: www.nmb.bm/rg-photo-competition.”NMB Executive Director Elena Strong shared: “Thanks to Mrs. Grundy and our local sponsors A.F. Smith, Phoenix Stores, and Clarien Bank, this competition has had impressive growth over the past six years. The calibre of submissions continues to rise year over year! The competition helps students develop creativity, patience, and visual literacy, encouraging them to see the world in new ways. For those not selected as finalists, keep exploring and sharing your perspective—there’s always next year!”A spokesperson added, “Mark Lewis, won his age group [15-18] in the Bermuda Nature and Wildlife category, winning a $500 Iron Kids account, and was selected as runner up in the People of Bermuda category, winning a $150 gift card to Brown & Co. His entry was also chosen as Best in Show and was presented with a Canon DSLR camera with lenses, memory card, filters and monopod, donated by Mrs. Grundy.”Finalists list:School with the highest percentage of submissions: Bermuda InstitutePrimary [ages 7-10]Bermuda BuildingsWinner: Rayn Wilson, Victor Scott PrimaryRunner-Up: Mia Yammine, BHSHonourable Mention: Finley Olivia Gilmar, Somerset PrimaryPeople of BermudaWinner: Evelyn Mora, Warwick AcademyRunner Up: Jori Bailey, Northlands PrimaryHonourable Mention: Zaedyn Furbert Downs, East End PrimaryBermuda Wildlife & NatureWinner: Dallas Hinds, Northlands PrimaryRunner Up: Isaiah Tankard, Bermuda InstituteHonourable Mention: Joseph Herron, Somersfield AcademyMiddle School [ages 11-14]Bermuda BuildingsWinner: Julia Stoppa, MSARunner Up: Henry Lill, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Siena Walters, Warwick AcademyPeople of BermudaWinner: Hanora Kirwan, SaltusRunner Up: Henry Lill, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Seri Fisher, Warwick AcademyBermuda Wildlife & NatureWinner: Savana Walters, Warwick AcademyRunner Up: Siena Walters, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Thea Dyer, HomeschoolHigh School [ages 15-18]Bermuda BuildingsWinner: Yari Mello, Cedarbridge AcademyRunner Up: Amelia Currie, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Jonah Every, Somersfield AcademyPeople of BermudaWinner: Jonah Every, Somersfield AcademyRunner Up: Mark Lewis, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Tabari Burgess, MSABermuda Wildlife & NatureWinner & Best in Show: Mark Lewis, Warwick AcademyRunner Up: Zoe Mir, George SchoolHonourable Mention: D’Angelo Williams, MSA

https://bernews.com/2024/12/skyport-school-carol-off-winners-announced/   Skyport School Carol-Off Winners AnnouncedDecember 9, 2024 | 1 CommentSkyport’s second annual Great Bermuda Carol-Off has concluded, with Northlands winning the Primary division, Berkeley winning the Middle/Secondary School category and St David’s/East End Primary earning the People’s Choice Award.A spokesperson said, “Skyport’s second annual Great Bermuda Carol-Off concluded, and the finalists have now been decided with careful consideration by a panel of judges. These exceptional schools will perform at a special Winners’ Concert at L.F. Wade International Airport on Thursday, December 12.“In the Primary School Choir category, Northlands Primary School has been named the winner, with West End Primary School taking second place. In the Middle/Secondary School Choir category, The Berkeley Institute took first place this year, with 2023’s winners Bermuda Institute taking second place this time around. St David’s/East End Primary won the public vote to take home the People’s Choice Award.“These schools have been recognised for their harmonic skill, creativity, professionalism, and Christmas spirit. They competed for $5,000 each for the winning schools, along with $2,000 for each runner-up.“Skyport congratulated all 21 choirs that participated in this year’s Carol-Off, commending their dedication, preparation and hard work that they put into each performance. Each choir brought something unique and festive to the stage, and Skyport was proud to have provided a platform for their incredible talent.“The Winners’ Concert, taking place Thursday, December 12, from 7 PM to 9 PM, is now sold out, with standing room only available for those who still wish to attend. Guests can enjoy performances by the finalists and hosted by MC Mr. Fotogenik. A vendor market featuring local businesses such as Ensure, Little Roads, Ashley’s Lemonade, The Knifty Knitzz and more will be on-site. Seasonal snacks and drinks, including eggnog, will also be available for purchase. Free parking will be provided in the short-term car parking lot.”Nikki ***an, Head of Brand Development & Communications at Skyport, said: “It has been so wonderful to see so many school choirs performing for the community here at L.F. Wade International Airport. This event has certainly put a festive spring in the steps of the airport’s staff and travelers passing through this week.“We are thrilled to host the first-ever Winners’ Concert on December 12, which is perfect for those who weren’t able to join us during the Carol-Off. We look forward to seeing everyone there, crowning the 2024 winners and contributing to their school music programs as part of Skyport’s ongoing commitment to supporting Bermuda’s young people in arts, education, sports, science, and the community.”

Dear Meredith Lombardo This is our first edition of The Scoop this year due to technical difficulties, and as it is Heritage Month, we thought we would share the story of our Black History Month field trip with over 200 students this past February!  We are delighted to support such a meaningful experience that not only educates but inspires our students. The collaboration with these community partners exemplifies our collective commitment to offering diverse and enriching educational experiences outside of the classroom. Sincerely Mrs. Kalmar Richards Commissioner of Education     An Engaging Historical Learning Experience for Over 200 Students The Department of Education was proud to collaborate with Friends of St Peter’s Church Charity, the African Diaspora Heritage Trail Foundation and the Bermuda National Trust to deliver an enlightening learning experience, "The Development of Slavery in Bermuda" to over 200 students. The initiative, designed to deepen students' understanding of Bermuda's complex history, successfully engaged the students in an immersive learning journey across significant historical sites.     Students from Northlands Primary with Nekesha Holdipp, Social Studies Education Officer   Students from various schools participated in visits to St. Peter's Church, the St. George's Historical Society Museum and the Jemmy Darrell Square, on February 19, 20, and 22. This field trip featured in-depth presentations and discussions led by experts in Bermudian history and heritage. The partnership speaks to Bermuda’s recognition of the UN’s International Decade for People of African Descent and a commitment to highlight contributions of people of African descent worldwide, and educate young people about social justice and inclusion. The students' journey included: - A historical overview of St. Peter’s Church, presented by Rev. Dr. Lorne Bean, highlighting its role in governance and the enactment of enslavement laws. - Insights into the life and legacy of King’s Pilot James ‘Jemmy’ Darrell led at the site of Mr. Darrell’s former home by Maxine Esdaile from the African Diaspora Heritage Trail Foundation. - Reflections on Rev. John Stephenson's efforts to challenge Bermuda’s segregated practices at The St. George’s Historical Society Museum, shared by Nekesha Holdipp, Social Studies Education Officer from the Department of Education. This learning experience aligns with the Department of Education's objectives to provide educational opportunities that foster a comprehensive understanding of local and global history, encouraging students to draw connections between past and present social issues.   Students from Harrington Sound Primary with Rev. Dr. Lorne Bean Alison Outerbridge, manager of Friends of St. Peter’s Church, added that the programme “demonstrated the importance of St Peter's Church as a key site for the experiential study of Bermuda history. "As the charity which supports the restoration, preservation and promotion of St. Peter's, Bermuda's first church, we knew that equity of access to this landmark is a challenge, so the funding support granted to provide transportation to public school children across Bermuda was key to the success of this initiative, which we hope will become an annual event.”   Students from West Pembroke Primary with Maxine Esdaille (ADHT)   Anna Stevenson, Heritage Education Coordinator at the BNT said, “We were delighted to partner with The Friends of St Peter’s Church and the Department of Education in delivering this experience. The students were completely absorbed. One said to me, ‘It’s one thing learning about it in the classroom - it’s another thing actually seeing these places.’ We are incredibly grateful to Rev Bean, Maxine Esdaile and Nekesha Holdipp for their time, and to Alison Outerbridge, who secured the funding for transportation. Without it, this learning experience would not have happened.” Ms Holdipp added: “With Bermuda being a signatory of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and as our students learn more about Bermuda’s history and develop as world citizens, these partnerships aim to inspire them to continue local and global work to eradicate racism and intolerance, promote human rights, and assist in creating better, more prosperous communities.”   Students from Whitney Institute Middle School and Prospect Primary with Rev. Dr. Lorne Bean The Department of Education is dedicated to creating an educational environment that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to navigate and contribute to a complex global society. Through partnerships with community organizations, the Department seeks to enrich the curriculum with real-world opportunities that bring history to life and encourage students to engage critically with the world around them.   If you have news, notices, updates, successes, or event information about any of our schools, partnerships or programmes, please share it with us by completing the form linked in the image above. The primary purpose is to enhance communication within the school district and the wider community. Your submissions may be edited and published as a press release, on our website and/or disseminated through various Bermuda Public Schools communications channels, such as social media, relevant WhatsApp groups and other email newsletters. If you have any questions, please contact comms@moed.bm.   Feedback Corner   Education Reform Feedback If you have any queries about education reform specifically, please email schoolredesign@moed.bm Was the information in this newsletter useful? Yes, thanks for sharing! No Somewhat           

Northlands video shared by Kirk Franklin Sékou HendricksonUpdated: Mar 04, 2024 01:12 PM1 CommentA Bermudian school choir was put under the spotlight on a Grammy-award winning gospel artist’s Instagram account.A video of the Northlands Primary School Choir performing Kirk Franklin’s Bless Me took off on social media, with the artist sharing it on his personal account.Mr Franklin wrote in his post: “When I had the idea for this song for Maverick City, I was concerned that it may come off a little corny and childlike.“Well, God knew.”The song, created with the band Maverick City Music, was released in 2022 for the Kingdom Book One album.Diallo Rabain, the Minister of Education, also gave Northlands Primary and choir leader Terry Henry recognition for their hard work.He said: “What an amazing and inspirational performance of Bless Me by Kirk Franklin.“The Northlands School Choir, under the leadership of Mr Terry Henry, is shining brightly in the international spotlight.“It is an honour to be singled out and celebrated by one of the greatest gospel music artists, Kirk Franklin.“Congratulations, and we are very proud of you. Well done."Tamicia Darrell, the principal of Northlands Primary, said she was excited by the recognition, adding that it was “well deserved” for Mr Henry and the pupils.She said: “The school is known for a lot of great and amazing things.“We have a saying that these types of things make Northlands special, and the production that they have on social media is just one of those types of things.”Ms Darrell noted that the choir placed first in Skyport’s Great Christmas Carol-Off competition last year, and received a $5,000 award.She said that the choir was the school’s strongest method for promoting the arts.She added: “Our kids are amazing in so many ways, but just for them to be featured for their musicality is just as exciting.”Northlands increases reading comprehension levelsAt Northlands Primary School, reading comprehension scores increased dramatically, jumping from 54 per cent to 86 per cent in 18 months, Tamicia Darrell said.She added that this reflected “a very progressive commitment and stance at Northlands to making sure that we cater to the whole child”.Ms Darrell said: “We have a vision that by 2026 100 per cent of our children will be reading at grade level.“We have 14 children left to get us over the hump.“We’ve put all of our time, energy and effort into them.”She added: “Every decision that we make is for students. Every single decision.“We’re really proud, and we’re excited for what we’re doing.”https://www.royalgazette.com/entertainment/news/article/20240304/northlands-video-shared-by-kirk-franklin/ 

Written by Shinah SimmonsThe Commissioner of Education attended Northlands Primary to congratulate the students and teachers on becoming the first school to attain 100% completion of the DreamBox Launchpad Math Assessment. They were awarded one of the trophies sent to the Department by DreamBox. 

https://bernews.com/2023/12/reg-grundy-photo-competition-winners-announced/Reg Grundy Photo Winners Announced December 12, 2023The Dr. Reg Grundy Annual Youth Photography Competition prize-giving and exhibit opening was held at the National Museum of Bermuda [NMB].A spokesperson said, “On Thursday, December 7, a crowd of over 115 students, teachers, family members, sponsors, and judges gathered at the National Museum of Bermuda [NMB] for the Dr. Reg Grundy Annual Youth Photography Competition prize giving and exhibit opening. MP Anthony Richardson, joined by Senator Arianna Hodgson, had the honour of officially opening this year’s exhibit.“In memory of Dr. Reg Grundy, AC, OBE, whose photographic legacy and passion for Bermuda live on in his work, the late Mrs. Joy Chambers Grundy and NMB established the Dr. Reg Grundy Annual Youth Photography Competition in 2019. Open to all local photography enthusiasts between 7 and 18, the competition is designed to inspire the next generation of photographers and encourage an appreciation for Bermuda’s natural and cultural environment.“A panel of local judges: Chris Burville, local photographer, Dr. Deborah Atwood, NMB Curator, and Chinni Mahadevan, Reg Grundy Photographic Libraries Curator, had a challenging time choosing the 27 finalists from almost 600 submissions submitted by 23 local schools.”NMB Executive Director Elena Strong shared: “Thank you to Mrs. Grundy and our sponsors: A.F. Smith, Phoenix Stores and Clarien Bank. It is fantastic to see how much the competition has grown and the calibre of photos has increased over the past five years! Congratulations to everyone who submitted—we have an impressive group of talented young photographers in Bermuda. The competition is a great opportunity for students to develop their creativity, patience, visual literacy and ability to closely look at the world around them in a unique way, and share their perspective through art. For those who entered but were not selected as finalists, I encourage you to continue being curious, take photographs and share your point of view by submitting again next year!”The spokesperson said, “Students submitted photos under the themes People of Bermuda, Bermuda Buildings and Bermuda Wildlife & Nature in three age categories, 7-10, 11-14 and 15-18. Winners received Iron Kids Accounts at Clarien Bank [amounts between $500 and $200 based on age group], runners-up received $150 gift cards to Brown & Co. stores, and the school with the most submissions [based on percentage] – Bermuda Institute – won a $1,500 gift certificate to A.F. Smith for school supplies. This year, to honour what would have been Dr. Grundy’s 100th birthday, a special prize was given to every 100th submission. Winners and runners-up photos are on display on the second floor of Commissioner’s House at NMB, with honorable mentions also featured on the NMB website: www.nmb.bm/rg-photo-competition.“Josiah Tull, Bermuda Institute, won his age group [7-10] in the People of Bermuda category and winning a $200 Iron Kids account, and was selected as runner up in the Bermuda Wildlife & Nature category, winning a $150 gift card to Brown & Co. His entry was also chosen as Best in Show and was presented with a Canon DSLR camera with lenses, memory card, filters and monopod, donated by Mrs. Grundy.”Finalists list:School with the highest percentage of submissions: Bermuda InstitutePrimary [ages 7-10]Bermuda BuildingsWinner: Hugo Adams, Somersfield AcademyRunner-Up: Mila Lowe, Northlands Primary SchoolHonourable Mention: Kimoni Simons, Elliott PrimaryPeople of BermudaWinner and Best in Show: Josiah Tull, Bermuda InstituteRunner Up: Joseph Yammine, Mount Saint AgnesHonourable Mention: Tyson Saltus, Bermuda InstituteBermuda Wildlife & NatureWinner: Savana Honey Walters, Warwick AcademyRunner Up: Josiah Tull, Bermuda InstituteHonourable Mention: Nathan Rego, Mount Saint AgnesMiddle School [ages 11-14]Bermuda BuildingsWinner: D’angelo Williams, Mount Saint AgnesRunner Up: Linden Packet, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Alisa Lightbourne, SaltusPeople of BermudaWinner: Jaide Stowe, Bermuda InstituteRunner Up: A’miley Bean, Bermuda InsituteHonourable Mention: Charles Fox, Bermuda InstituteBermuda Wildlife & NatureWinner: Seth Neill, Warwick AcademyRunner Up: Lucas Myers, Warwick AcademyHonourable Mention: Amaya Nusum-Bean, Bermuda InstituteHigh School [ages 15-18]Bermuda BuildingsWinner: Yari Mello, Cedarbridge AcademyRunner Up: Aidan Euler: Bermuda InstituteHonourable Mention: Melissa Hassel, Warwick AcademyPeople of BermudaWinner: Naomi Every, Somersfield AcademyRunner Up: Abby Davis, MSAHonourable Mention: Sophie Weikl, Mount Saint AgnesBermuda Wildlife & NatureWinner: Luke Foster, Warwick AcademyRunner Up: Jonah Every, Somersfield AcademyHonourable Mention: Avalon Packer, Warwick Academy Mila and her family at the Prize Presentation at The Commissioner's House in Dockyard.

https://bernews.com/2023/12/bermuda-institute-northlands-win-grand-prizes/  Bermuda Institute & Northlands Win Grand PrizesDecember 15, 2023 | 1 CommentThe Great Christmas Carol-Off winners have been announced, with the performances of such a high caliber that Skyport upgraded the prize money to a total of $13,000; Bermuda Institute’s Senior Choir won the $5,000 grand prize, Northlands Primary won a new $5,000 grand prize for primary schools, and Warwick Academy’s Middle School Choir earned the $2500 runner-up prize, while the $1200 People’s Choice winner is still open for voting.A spokesperson said, “The Great Christmas Carol-Off, a highlight of Skyport’s slate of holiday festivities at the LF Wade International Airport, wrapped up on Thursday, December 14, 2023. Today, Skyport announces three winners of The Great Christmas Carol-Off, a musical competition between twenty groups from eighteen schools that unfolded beneath Bermuda’s Biggest Christmas Tree. In an unexpected move, President Aaron Adderley introduced a second Grand Prize Winner category for Primary Schools to ensure outstanding performances from across the junior and senior age divisions could be recognised.”Aaron Adderley said, “The Great Carol-Off performances lit up the terminal, and we were delighted by the energy and enthusiasm from groups across the age spectrum. It was clear that the various schools and groups invested significant effort into each presentation. We knew that we would have to find a way to honour the performances of the best junior performers in a category separate and apart from those of the extraordinary senior and middle school students. We are thrilled to be able to add this special prize today.”The spokesperson said, “Bermuda Institute’s Senior Choir, directed by Owen Simons, emerged as the overall grand prize winner with a flawless score that elicited a thunderous response from departing passengers and a jam-packed audience at the end of their performance on Thursday. Meanwhile, the newly introduced primary school grand prize was secured by Northlands Primary Choir, which delivered an energetic fifteen-minute performance directed by Terry Henry on Monday. Warwick Academy’s Middle School Choir earned the runner-up prize for their dynamic performance orchestrated by music teacher Deanna Friesen.Northlands Primary Choir“The judging panel, led by Chief Judge Dale Butler, alongside Choir Director Michelle Doars and Skyport Representative Tusha Stovell, employed a comprehensive grading matrix encompassing aspects of harmonic prowess, creativity, Christmas spirit, and professionalism to determine the winners. Skyport’s finance team tabulated the scores and verified the final prize allocations.“Skyport has pledged over $100k annually to support Bermuda’s youth as part of its corporate giving framework. The Great Christmas Carol-Off was initiated to support Bermuda’s school music programmes and nurture the country’s musical talent.”President Aaron Adderley expressed, “As our second annual school musical presentation, we are thrilled at the growth and the incredible community response. We Initiated the competition fund to fortify support for schools’ music programs, aligning with our dedication to community and social responsibility, especially in endorsing STEAM initiatives for youth. Research has shown the powerful impact of music education on the social, academic and social development of young people, and we are proud to provide this platform to support even the smallest musical programme or after-school choir club to flex their musical muscles.”Bermuda InstituteThe spokesperson said, “The event saw a full house each day, welcoming enthusiastic audiences comprising parents, grandparents, residents of senior care homes, and students from island preschools. The overwhelming community support emphasised the importance of nurturing the arts in Bermuda.”Nikki ***an, Head of Brand Development and Communications, added, “Each school was amazing as the hundreds in attendance, positive sentiment and thousands of views on our social platforms can attest. The community’s remarkable support underscores the value of the arts and our young people to Bermuda. We eagerly anticipate expanding this initiative further in 2024. Congratulations to the Ministry of Education, all the schools, students, and their parents for their outstanding contributions. Skyport looks forward to continuing its commitment to youth with an exciting slate of Skyport-supported initiatives starting in March 2023.”The spokesperson said, “The People’s Choice Award, valued at $1,200, runs until December 31, 2023, and relies on community voting to select the most popular performance group. The three winners chosen by the judges: Bermuda Institute, Northlands Primary and Warwick Academy Middle School, will be ineligible for the People’s Choice cash prize. Should they get the most votes, the next eligible group will be named the People’s Choice winner.”To vote for the People’s Choice winner you have to comment ‘yes’ on their highlight reel on Skyport’s Instagram page, and you can view all our coverage of the 3-day event here on Bernews, with the coverage including videos of all performances.