There had been whispers and rumours about the renowned Talent Night for the past month and on Saturday 6^th February our expectations were certainly exceeded.

Compared to the normal intensity of the 17 hour Kisima day, the annual Talent Night was a welcomed relief for the students. Running from 2pm until 2am, the programme offered everybody a chance to get involved. Alongside the expected acts of comedy, drama, singing and dancing, the students participated in eating competitions, cat-walking, karate, laughing and crying competitions and even soda drink races – true Kisima style! The fun and laughter of the evening was conducted by the Masters of the Ceremony; two Form Fours and an entertainment prefect who, having organized the event, also presented the evening. The judging and awarding of prizes was led by a panel of teachers who themselves deserve a prize for lasting until the early hours of the morning.

A highlight of the evening was the cat-walking; a particular opportunity for individual students to display their creativity. The bravest students, both boys and girls, dressed up within the categories of crazy-wear, sporting outfits and mad hairstyles. This was met by the cheering and support of their peers and much laughter all round.

The moment of glory for those less musically and dramatically gifted came in the eating competitions. Students raced to consume a number of different foods, for example five bananas or a whole loaf of bread. Alternatively, students could work in teams to complete a treasure hunt organised across the school site.

The night was made particularly special by the overwhelming support between the students and the chance for everybody to truly relax. The stories and memories of the evening continue to bring laughter and will remain until next year.

Ella and Ema – volunteers

Tuesday 26th arrived and the school was ready to welcome the new Form Ones.

Current students gathered around the Kisima gates at the early hour of 6:45am ready to welcome the new Form Ones – some of whom had been travelling for days. Arriving only with a single trunk of personal belongings and a parent or guardian by their side, the new students were greeted with a smile and a traditional African handshake. Thus began a busy schedule of interviews, introductions, speeches and a final goodbye to their accompanying family.

Form Ones were checked in, photographed and directed to a teacher to be interviewed regarding basic personal information, family background and their ambitions for Kisima and beyond. Following this, all new arrivals and staff members gathered in the main hall. Every new student and guardian introduced themselves by name, as did all members of staff. The Principal and Director outlined the rules and regulations of Kisima, past successes of the school and concluded with congratulating and welcoming the new students. It was also special to hear from Samantha Haydon, a representative of ‘The Educational Frontier Trust’ in the UK.

The end of the day meant significant goodbyes to accompanying family but appointments of Kisima mother and fathers – Form Twos ready to offer mentoring and support, especially through the transition and homesickness of the first term. The transformation into Kisima students was complete when the varying primary uniforms were replaced with the Kisima colours; made to measure by the tailors working on site. They have also been supplied with bedding, buckets and all the necessary stationery.

It was a privilege and joy to welcome the new students into the Kisima family.

Ella and Ema – volunteers from England