Below are reflections by new staff and students after their first week in TIS.
My name is Marie-Gabriella in IB1. Coming to TIS has proved to be a good decision, and I regret not starting in Grade 7. So far I have barely spent 2 days and the atmosphere is just AMAZING, from the students to the Principal, everyone is just friendly. I look forward to more interactive activities. I want to engage in a variety of sports, most especially swimming. But not forgetting my academics. (Marie-Gabriella Nwokolo – IB 1)
My expectation is that I can join the Girls Soccer Team, and everyone will be treated fairly. I also expect that my teachers will incorporate fun with learning. (Nina-Abie Omatsola – Grade 7)
Although I assumed the first days were going to be boring and dull, so far it has been full of excitement and fun. We had tons of laughs and smiles and I like the school. I would want to play football, swim and engage in other sports. (McKevin Zukowski – Grade 9)
The school has so far been exciting, and has met most of my expectations; a friendly environment, well-resourced facilities, and interactive activities. The prefects are very nice and approachable. I will want to join the Soccer Team, Basketball Team and also join the School Choir. (Fikunayomi Olagbami – Grade 9)
I am impressed by the school’s effort to equip teachers and all workers in order for them to excel in their various endeavors. I believe anyone who implements lesson learnt from the staff workshops is going to have a wonderful time with students, and colleagues. As a hostel guardian, I saw a bunch of wonderful, active, vibrant and inquisitive fresh gentlemen and ladies on the school’s open day for new students. (Janet Enning – Hostel Guardian & History Teacher)
Before joining TIS, I was of the impression that the school was filled with people who were only academically minded. After about one week, well that impression has changed. I have realized that the staff, both academic and administrative, as well as the Supporting Staff, are very caring and friendly; it feels good to be in TIS. In the coming weeks, I expect to learn a TEMA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL lot, interact more with everyone and do my best. (Ms. Linda Adika – TA, English Department)
The past three weeks have been a whirlwind of activities: orientation and workshops. Although it’s been crazy, I have loved every minute of it. The TIS family is a beautiful one. There are so many friendly and outgoing colleagues and I have not been lonely.There is always someone to talk with, to share ideas, get to know, or to get help. I can’t wait for teaching to begin! I’m excited to see what the year holds for me and for the TIS family. Let’s keep the love alive!!! (Mrs. Akua Bobson Tei – Teacher, English Department)
I worked with TIS for the first time as an Acting Coach in 2013, when the school was celebrating its 10th anniversary and staged the Broadway celebrated musical, The Lion King. Since then, I have worked in the same capacity for the past two years when the school produced for its annual school plays, This is Our Chance and Sarafina in the years 2014 and 2015 respectively. With each encounter with the student performers, I was always elated at the level of creative dexterity they displayed, and I have always yearned to work with the school to do more of these. Well, I am here now, a full time CAS Advisor, and I can only imagine the challenge and even more so, the opportunity this offers me. To paraphrase Nelson Mandela, I look forward to serve and add my own humble contribution to the development of the students’ lives, and as my coordinator (Mrs. King) will always say, ‘It can only get better’. (Mr. Ebenezer Asime – CAS Advisor)
As my wife, Carin, and I lived in West Africa, when we worked at the British School of Lome 9 years ago, we knew a bit what to expect from the country. We agreed to accept a position at TIS based also on what we saw on their website. Especially the YouTube movies showed a vibrating school where a lot is going on. On top of that, it looked like there were only happy people. What we expected seems to be true. Ghana is still very much like it was 9 years ago, though I must say that Ghanaians seem even friendlier. We have received a lot of help from the people in school, but also randomly wherever we go. The teachers are equally friendly and, on top of that, very enthusiastic. We love the family feel of the school and appreciate the warm welcome we have been given. We expect to enjoy working at TIS and live in Ghana. There should be a balance between work and live and I’m sure Ghana has enough to offer to make this work. Regarding MYP, I expect TIS to see a smooth transition and gain the authorization as soon as possible. (Mr. Ate Hemmes – MYP Coordinator/Art Teacher)