One of Bahrain’s top international schools is saying goodbye to its Isa Town campus after accumulating 65 years of fond memories and achievements.
Starting August, St Christopher’s School Bahrain will be moving to its new 100,000 square metre state-of-the-art campus in Al Raffa.
Coming from modest beginnings in 1961 in a villa, the school has gone on to provide an exceptional education to thousands of children and young adults, aged three to 18 from more than 70 nations.
An event to celebrate its final day on the campus was held shortly before school broke up for the summer holidays with teachers, students and alumni all attending to share fond memories of their time at the Isa Town campus.
Speaking to the GDN, principal Dr Simon Watson stated that he was excited and looking forward to the next chapter in the school’s history.
“Today marks the end of an era for St Chris as we say goodbye to our Isa Town Campus,” said Dr Watson.
“It is a place that has shaped the lives of generations of students and families.
“While there is a sense of nostalgia, there is also great excitement as we look ahead to the next chapter and the opportunities our new Senior School in Al Raffa will bring.”
Among the attendees at the event was PE teacher Rob Subbiani, who said that he had many beautiful memories stretching back more than 25 years.
“I was chatting to the students about things that happened in the past on this campus, and the memories just came flooding back,” Mr Subbiani said.
“One thing that I will remember is when the school won all three British Schools in the Middle East games at every age level.
“The facilities for sports are truly out of this world and the students have so many different opportunities to participate in sports such as rock climbing, badminton, swimming and tennis.”
The new senior school, which spans about 100,000sqm, has been designed to provide cutting-edge facilities and innovative learning environments that elevate the educational experience for both students and staff.
With a focus on fostering creativity, the new campus will feature first-class facilities, including a 50m swimming pool, three outdoor pitches, a 400m running track, a climbing wall and two sports halls.
Beyond sports, children can cultivate their artistic side in a 750-seat auditorium, music ensemble rooms, and art studios all under the guidance of a dedicated teaching team.
Liela Alsugair, a 2019 graduate and now owner of Studio Beyn, spoke about her favourite memories of the school involving a musical performance. “I started St Christopher’s at primary school level, and my favourite moment came in senior school, when I performed with Jawhara – a musical ensemble of around a dozen performers,” said Ms Alsugair. “The way we practised together, confided in each other and performed with each other was really special.
“I look back on my time fondly, especially my music teachers, who I still think about these days.”
Saleh Nass, a 2001 graduate and currently a film director, not only shared his favourite moments at the Isa Town campus but also had a message for the pupils on their new journey.
“I have plenty of fond memories on campus, especially the drama class where we used to perform plays and sang many songs,” said Mr Nass. “It was great reliving all these lovely memories.
“For the students who are going to the new senior school, you have your whole lives ahead of you. Live in the moment, make life-long friends, seize the day and enjoy this part of your lives as much as you can.”
n The school is inviting alumni, former staff, parents and members of our wider community to donate photographs, uniforms, trophies, programmes, publications, memorabilia and other items that help tell the story of St Christopher’s School through the years. Donated items may be featured in a heritage display at the new Senior School, and items can be dropped off at security at the Saar Campus any time before August 23.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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