THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL

SCHOOL OF JEDDAH

PO Box 6453 Tel: (966-12) 2834600

Jeddah 2144 www.bisj.com
Saudi Arabia director@conti.sch.sa

Dear Parents,

We are excited to let you know that a Water Sports programme will be commencing on January 16th 2023.
This currently is replacing the Outdoor Education programme. We will be running this in cooperation with
Jeddah Yacht Club. Key stage 3 students will attend in the afternoons as a tutor group for 4 days of their
allocated week (Monday to Thursday).

The Water Sports programme is one we are very fortunate to be able to provide at BISJ and one we are
very proud of. The programme is a key component in helping us fulfil our mission of Learning to Live,
Learn and Lead as it focuses on developing the students with new skills that cannot be easily taught in the
classroom and will help them develop emotionally, socially and physically. It provides a brilliant
opportunity for students to try new experiences, bond with their fellow classmates and grow as individuals.
There is immense research on the benefits for students being involved in such programmes and that is why
this programme is compulsory for all our Year 7 to Year 9 students.
The activities that will be taking place are:
Keelboating/ sailing

Larger than a dinghy, but smaller than a yacht, the 28ft keelboats are ideal for groups to get out on the water
and learn the basics of sailing. Keelboat sailing is the perfect way to develop soft skills and encourage
teamwork, as everyone in the group is given a role onboard. Children will learn the basics of wind direction,
hoisting sails, winching ropes, steering and turning the boat through the wind.

Stand up paddleboarding

Learn how to master this popular sport in flat water conditions. It’s simple to get started on a paddleboard
and children will learn the basic paddle techniques, including turns and how to fall safely into the water.

Bananaboat

A fun energetic time on the bananaboat where children will have to work as a team to hang on while
bouncing over the waves.

I know that many of the students will be very excited and looking forward to these four days, however, for
a few this may be a very new or different experience for them and/or their parents that they are not entirely
comfortable about. While these four days are compulsory and all students must attend if you or child do
have any concerns do please contact your child’s Tutor or Head of Year and they can chat to you or your
child to provide reassurance and support.
The schedule for Year 7

7.1: Monday 16th to Thursday 19th January

7.4: Monday 23rd to Thursday 26th January
7.3: Monday 30th January to Thursday 2nd February
7.2: Monday 6thTuesday 7th & Thursday 9th February (Wednesday 8th Sports Day)
7.5: Monday 13th to Thursday 16th February

The Secondary office team will remind you the week prior to their assigned dates with an email. Students
will be reminded in registration by the form tutor and in the Herald.
We shall leave the school at approximately 12.30 pm and return at around 3pm. The students will need to
bring the following items:

1. Water shoes
2. Towel
3. Bag
4. Water bottle
5. Hat
6. Suncream
7. Rashguard/ Swim top
8. Shorts / long lycra trousers
9. Change of clothes
10. Snack – juice

No jewellery should be worn to Outdoor Education. Electronic items are not allowed during Water Sports
(This includes mobiles, cameras, IPads, etc.)

Please complete and return the attached medical/permission slip to your child’s tutor by Sunday 15th
January.

Yours sincerely,

Pierre Scottorn
Head of Secondary
 THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL
SCHOOL OF JEDDAH

Parental Consent Form/Medical Declaration

Water Sports Programme

THIS SLIP MUST BE RETURNED TO YOUR CHILD’S TUTOR PRIOR TO THE WATER
SPORTS PROGRAMME.

Student’s Name: …………………………………………. Form: …………………………………………

I understand that my son/daughter will take part in the forthcoming Water Sports programme.

I confirm that to the best of my knowledge, he/she suffers from no condition that might put him/her at risk.

● If applicable, please give the following details of relevant medical or physical conditions.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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Parent’s Name: ……………………………………….

Signature …………………………………………… Date: ……………………………………….