Humanities newsletter Term 3 2025

It’s been a truly exciting few weeks in the world of Humanities! I’ve been amazed and energised by the creativity, independence, and curiosity that students have shown — from the medieval world of knights and markets to rivers and rainfall right here in Dar es Salaam. Here’s a celebration of all the brilliant things happening across Key Stages 3 and 4:

Year 7 History – Bursting with Imagination

Year 7 have stepped back in time to the medieval world, and what an incredible job they’ve done!

The tournament posters were absolutely outstanding — full of bold designs, persuasive writing, and historical insight. Well done Surya, Myra and Ruth to name just a few. I also really enjoyed looking at the Medieval Village drawings - A huge congratulations to Bella, Nasra, and Anita, whose work really stood out for its creativity and attention to detail.

Also worth celebrating is the wonderful creative writing from Isabelle and Nasra, who captured the smells, sounds, and sights of the medieval market so vividly that I could almost hear the shouting merchants and smell the roasting meat. Well done!

Year 8 History - African Independence

Year 8 have been working hard on their African independence projects, and their independent research skills have really shone through.

I’ve been so impressed with the dedication and critical thinking being applied to topics like Ethiopia (Abyssinia), Algeria, Uganda, and South Africa. I’m really looking forward to seeing your presentations — I know they’ll be thoughtful, well-researched, and engaging.

Year 8 Geography – Weather, Climate & Climate Change

Year 8 geographers have been exploring weather and climate, learning what weather is, why it varies, and where patterns occur. They studied how heat moves around the Earth, air pressure, types of rain and clouds, tropical cyclones, and climate worldwide, including the UK. They also learned how temperature, wind speed, rainfall, and air pressure are measured using instruments such as thermometers, barometers, anemometers, and rain gauges.

Now, they are focusing on climate change, exploring both local and global impacts and considering practical steps we can take to help combat this global issue.

Year 9 & 10 Geography – Fieldwork Champions!

To mark World Ocean Day, Year 9 and 10 geographers went out into the field on Monday, 9th June, visiting four rivers in Mbezi and Mikocheni.

Despite heavy overnight rain that left the rivers high and fast, students carried out pH testing, visual pollution assessments, and attempted to measure velocity at each site. It was challenging work, but everyone stayed focused, determined, and full of energy.

Huge thanks to the brilliant team of staff who supported the trip:
Mr Turner, Mr Kassim, Mr Inwood, Mr Nyanda, Mrs Kaaya and Ms Chellal — thank you for getting stuck in and making the day a success.

A very special mention to Safraz, Naggib, Nahla, Hayaam, and Heri, who stood out at every site for their leadership, teamwork, and willingness to go the extra mile. You helped carry equipment, solve problems, and supported others – true geographers in action!

It’s such a joy to see students thinking critically, working independently, and engaging with the world around them. Thank you all for your curiosity, commitment and creativity. Good luck with your fieldwork endeavours next year

Year 7 geographers joined the Year 9 and 10 students for World Ocean Day fieldwork, investigating how water pollution changes with land use, distance from the city centre, and river width. They used pH testing, visual checks, and flow measurements, showing great curiosity and teamwork.

Special thanks to team leaders Mayati, Ruth, and Isabelle, as well as Clement, Isaiah, Lulu, Liu, Lynette, Dora, and Myra for their excellent contributions. A fantastic learning experience alongside their older peers!

I hope they are more brilliant than ever!