Connecting Cultures: The Magic of Elementary School’s Annual Culture Week

Where were you born, and where do you call home? For some, the answer is the same; for others, it's different…

This variety is a unique and wonderful aspect of being part of an international school community. Celebrating this diversity enriches our experiences and broadens our perspectives, making our school a truly special place to learn and grow.

 

At ISP, we appreciate the wide array of cultures and backgrounds that enrich our community. Our students bring fresh perspectives and dynamic energy to our campus, enhancing the uniqueness of the ISP learning environment. 

Culture Week is an annual tradition aimed at honouring and showcasing the rich diversity within our Elementary School community. This year’s Culture Week, held from 3 - 7 June, was a vibrant celebration featuring a variety of activities, events, culinary projects, and enjoyment for all!

The week was full of exciting events and parent visits, offering a rich variety of cultural experiences. Students played traditional Korean games like Pengi Chigi and Sabang Chigi, learned folk dances and songs from Slovakia, and discovered the significance of hand gestures in Italy, even mastering a few key gestures. These activities were just a glimpse of the numerous presentations and immersive experiences that engaged the children throughout the week.

 

Making the week even more immersive was an incredible visit from world-renowned percussionist, Michito Sanchez. Michito worked with every class in the Elementary School, as well as some Middle and Upper school classes during the week, inspiring students with his dynamic performances and hands-on workshops.

He introduced them to a variety of percussion instruments, shared stories from his international career, and taught them rhythms and techniques from different cultures. At the end of the week, the entire community came together for a fabulous concert with Michito, performing the most famous Latin jazz song of all time, “Oye Como Va.” The performance included the ISP Community Jazz Ensemble as well as Middle School band and choir elective classes.

 

 

Michito said 'It was so much fun teaching and sharing at ISP.  Thanks for inviting me!' Ms. Higgins was delighted that the students could benefit from Michito’s energy, expertise and passion for Music.  It was a real privilege to have such a high calibre musician in school.

The highlight and culmination of the week was the Culture Day Parade, a festive procession winding through the school, cheered on by Middle and Upper School students, teachers, and parents.

Our Elementary School students proudly wore traditional clothing and waved flags, creating beautiful moments of connection as they celebrated and appreciated the diverse cultures represented within our school community.