A new program created by Mr Bowen, MS/HS counsellor, has taken off with enthusiasm. One boy and one girl from each advisory group are nominated by their advisors. A training session was held for all elected with Mr Bowen. The mission of the Ambassadors is to welcome new students and assist with their school transition; to oversee them for short time depending how the student copes. Ambassadors nurture and instil foundations for the newcomer. They may become good friends or they may find other students with common ground. Bianca Dempsey (10th) and Sarah Azizo (6th) shared with me their following thoughts on this new program in which they are involved. 

Bianca has made many moves with her family and it seems second nature to her. This is her second visit to the UK and returned to ACS still finding some old school friends. Sarah moved here two years ago; her first move ever! ‘How scary, it was hard, I felt alone’. Both young ladies feel they can give to other new incoming students advice on transition gained from their past experiences of adjusting both in the school community and a new culture. Students have come to know Sarah who is a person that gives sound advice on how to deal with social and academic issues, guiding them verbally drawn from her own experiences or advising them to see relevant staff to help them on their way. Bianca likes very much to be a caring mediator and resolve a situation when it arises whoever it may be. Both girls feel they can give and share so much of themselves to make school community life a good environment for all. They love being ambassadors along with the others. They are all proud of what they do.

The Ambassadors have worked closely with Mr Bowen on this new program. Both advisor and the girls feel while the classes are structured with new students by their side the biggest place that needs support is at lunch. Sarah remembers her first few weeks wondering around hoping someone would invite her to sit down. There were very few if any offers. So fellow students take note! Extend a warm welcome wave to a stranger, invite them to your table, make them welcome, not leaving them feeling left out of that sea of laughter and conversation. Who knows, that person might end up your best mate!!!