St James’ School was abuzz with activity yesterday as the school hosted its annual open day at its premises in Kuala Belait.
Themed ‘Sharing Similarities, Celebrating Differences’, the annual event aimed to highlight the students’ growth and development over the academic year through showcases and performances.
Acting principal Joseph Beriso Sarmiento said, “We come together and celebrate the achievements, creativity and hard work of our students and staff.”
He added, “It is also an opportunity for us to share the vibrant and supportive environment that makes St James’ School a wonderful place to learn and grow.”
Meanwhile, the chairman of the school’s board of governors Ravie Tajit Anak Tarang highlighted the need for unity and diversity in shaping the community.
“We understand that our strength lies not only in the common values we share but also in the differences that make each one of us unique.
“Today, we showcase the best of St James’: our students, who embody curiosity and creativity; our teachers, who inspire and guide with passion and purpose; and our school, which serves as a nurturing ground for tomorrow’s leaders.”
Students from kindergarten to Year 11, as well as their teachers and staff performances were based on a variety of cultures and traditions, culminating in the finale, where all the performing students and teachers gathered on stage for a group performance titled ‘We Are Unity’.
An exhibition was also put together by a group of students from the Institute of Health Sciences (IHS) at the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) under the name SWEET Smart.
The IHS students shed light on the importance of healthy sugar intake for adolescents, with games and activities disseminating information on the sugar content of popular food and drinks to help raise awareness on the daily sugar consumption.
Exhibitions by each subject department showcasing the students’ works, as well as booths providing food, games, costume contests, reptile live shows and other activities, were also set up across the premises. – Daniel Lim
