Blue Ocean Academy – Providing Word Class Training

Location – Suite B2505, Latifa Towers,, Sheikh Zayed Road, Opposite World Trade Centre – Dubai

Website – https://www.blueoceanacademy.com/

Contact – +97143148500


1. Please mention about your organization, its mission/vision and various facilities.

Blue Ocean Academy is one of the most reputed organizations in the field of professional training in the Middle East that boasts a long history of more than 20 years. It has mentored thousands of professionals in varied fields, helped them reach their goals and provided outstanding career support. From its humble beginnings in 1998, Blue Ocean has come a long way. Today, it has a strong presence in the UAE and other GCC Countries, with more than 80,000 alumni worldwide, a global network of certified trainers, international affiliations and multinational partners. The main goal of Blue Ocean is to help professionals grow in the corporate world and to navigate organizations through tough times to be profitable.

Vision

To become the world’s most trusted knowledge empowerment enterprise.

To put Blue Ocean on the global map for training, knowledge development and consultancy.

Mission

Provide world-class, cost-effective employment-linked training courses in a relaxed, friendly and accessible environment.

Forge and strengthen affiliations with some of the best international professional training institutions.

Offer students an instantly rewarding experience and a passport to gaining recognition in a multi-cultural work environment.

Ensure optimal value for students’ time and money.

FACILITIES – Blue Ocean Academy has two offices- one is at Latifa Towers and our corporate office is at Burjuman. The classes are conducted at both offices and also at third-party venues for corporate clients. All the classrooms are well-equipped with audio, video and internet facilities. Inhouse training is also provided for the organizations as per request. Currently, we provide online training that allows the students to learn from the comfort of their homes. We have well-qualified, experienced and internationally qualified faculty.

2. Kindly mention about the prominent personality of the organization and his/her role in the development of the organization.

Dr Sathya Menon and Abdul Azeez are the two individuals behind the remarkable growth and expansion of Blue Ocean Academy. Dr Sathya Menon, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Blue Ocean is the mastermind behind the expansion of the company. He is also the Program Director who oversees the design and implementation of training programs conforming to international standards, marketing strategies for business development, leads the team in alignment with the organization’s vision and values and delivers excellent training, consultation and other forms of technical assistance. His out-of-the-box ideas and leadership helped the organization to overcome the crisis in an exemplary way.

Abdul Azeez, the Chairman of the organization, has been a driving force in leading the company to greater heights. With his expertise and vast knowledge in strategic planning, he has expanded the organization’s operations in India, UAE and other GCC countries. He implements company policies to ensure world-class practices, organizes international conferences and workshops, comes up with efficient initiatives to improve the quality of services, and maintains enduring relationships with the customers.

3. Please mention about your services.

Blue Ocean provides international certification programs to help individuals advance their careers. We also enable organizations to improve employee performance and overall profitability through customized corporate training programs. The training is provided online and also in face-to-face sessions while adhering to the COVID-19 protocols. All the trainers of Blue Ocean are industry experts and strive to provide the best learning experience to the students. The pragmatic and personalized approach to learning has enabled the academy to exceed the expectations of the students.

Blue Ocean also leverages its experience by providing top-notch consulting services to Corporate Clients bringing a quantum leap in their performance and profitability, almost instantaneously. Many clients get a return several times of their investment in our consulting services

4. How are you helping students to get financial assistance?

As a responsible corporate citizen, Blue Ocean has always been conducted several CSR activities for the customers. Several non-profit initiatives like free workshops, seminars/webinars and events are conducted every year. Even in 2020 when most organizations were reeling in the pandemic, Blue Ocean continued the initiatives which were a great relief for the people who had to halt their training plans due to the unexpected situation. On March 8, 2020, we conducted the Blue Ocean Women Leadership (BOWLD) conference exclusively for women which was attended by around 200 top women professionals in the Middle East. It had thought-provoking sessions by renowned speakers and eminent women leaders like Dr Zulekha Daud, the founder and chairperson of Zulekha Healthcare Group, were honoured in the non-profit event.

During the crisis, free training was offered to our students and in particular to the citizens of the UAE, Oman, Azerbaijan and Nigeria and also for the hardworking healthcare professionals in the UAE who have done remarkable service in the country for containing the virus. The course fee was reduced to encourage students to continue learning and in some deserving cases, free scholarships were also given. Free webinars are also conducted to educate individuals on relevant topics in varied industries. All webinars are facilitated by popular international speakers like Michael Proffitt, Gurjit Gill and Dr. LeRoy H Graw.

5. Please enlighten us about the organization’s major awards/achievements, its accomplished/renowned alumni, remarkable collaborations, and major accreditations.

Blue Ocean Academy has built an enviable reputation in the Middle East through several success stories. Over the years, the Academy has won several accolades and awards in recognition of its skills to impart sound knowledge to the students. Following are some of the awards that we received:

6. Excellence in Training and Development Award at Middle East Training and Development Leadership Awards 2019

CEO of the Year award at the prestigious Middle East Training and Development Leadership conference- Dr Sathya Menon- CEO of Blue Ocean Academy 2019

Outstanding contribution to Global Learning at the Middle East Training and Development Leadership Awards

Global Training and Development Leadership Award 2017

10 Best Six Sigma Training Institutes Worldwide

Golden Globe Tigers award for the ”Best Training Initiative in Logistics and Supply Chain 2017

2020 IATA Regional Top Performing ATC (Accredited Training Center)

GFEL Top 100 Leaders in Education- Dr Sathya Menon- CEO of Blue Ocean Academy 2019

GFEL Top 50 Organizations in Education 2019

Pride of Aviation Awards Finalist in Business Aviation Awards 2020

7. The International Affiliations

Blue Ocean’s training programs are certified by the esteemed international certification bodies like the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), International Purchase and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI), the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT), the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), International Air Transport Association (IATA), American Certification Institute (ACI), Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS), and American Purchasing Society (APS).

8. Kindly elaborate about the future plans of the organization in the same.

Blue Ocean has many plans for 2021 and beyond. We will continue online training as it allows us to cater to the training needs of the people irrespective of geographical boundaries. We have launched the Arabic training division to provide all our successful training programs in the Arabic language. This is a new step to encourage Arabic-speaking individuals to learn in their native language. We have also launched a separate Corporate Division to service the Corporate Customers. We have also added a branch in Abu Dhabi to cater to the growing demands from that segment of the market.

9. Have you seen any significant change as an organization after Covid-19, please mention some pros and cons if any?

Yes. It was a tough year for businesses around the world. The pandemic imposed several changes on organizations and the only option left was to embrace them without reluctance. We have faced several challenges including travel bans, lockdowns, strict protocols and overwhelming anxiety among the customers. However, we accepted the realities with a positive mind and acted proactively. Digitization was a positive aspect of the pandemic that created a great impact on our business. Even when we had to stop the classroom training for a long time, online training allowed us to appeal to a global audience. The online training and webinars helped us to connect with people across the globe and receive thousands of Google Reviews for the exceptional quality of virtual training. In fact, except the month of March 2020, when lockdown hit our business badly, we registered month-on-month growth in our business, through the hard work of our staff and faculty guided by the vision and involvement of the management. As far as the downside of Covid was concerned, the inability to have face to face interaction with our Student Community was a drawback that we overcame through online sessions.

10. What are the destination and courses you support?

After starting the online training, we are catering to a global audience. However, our operations are mostly based in the locations like UAE, other GCC countries, India, Nigeria and Azerbaijan. Please find all courses in this link: https://www.blueoceanacademy.com/

International Placewell Consultants – Finding a RIGHT FIT for Students

Location – Block–13, Office No. F-18, Dubai Knowledge Park,
PO BOX: 46875, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Website – https://www.unidirection.com/

Contact +971 4 3911179


International Placewell Consultants FZ LLC was established in the year 2003. A humble journey began with the representation of a single university, which has culminated into a representation of several top-ranked universities from across the globe. Our mission of 18 years is still held at the highest order – to provide a range of services to the students that allow them to be comprehensively briefed and make an informed choice for their higher studies thereby finding a RIGHT FIT.

IPC, Gulf is licensed by Knowledge and Human Development (KHDA). IPC an authorized Agent by the British Council and is a registered UCAS centre. The Knowledge Village honoured International Placewell Consultants FX LLC in 2013 with “The Excellence Award” upon completing the 10-year partnership with Knowledge Village, Dubai. The above recognition is an ode to our excellent service while maintaining the highest ethical and moral standards.

IPC assists students to apply for courses at all levels of education- PhD, Postgraduate, Undergraduate, Foundation and Pre-Sessional English Courses. Our services include subject counselling, visa counselling, admission guidance, error-free documentation, accommodation & Pre-departure briefing.

IPC primarily works with universities in the UK. This includes those in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. In addition, we work closely with the Pathway providers that in turn work with universities all over the world. We represent universities in the EU, Canada, the USA and Australia. We are thus equipped with the education system and Equivalency of qualifications. We are aware of all the tests that are required both for the generic language ones as well as the course-specific tests for each country that we represent, hence guide the student to take the right exam at the right time. This may also include the additional qualification that a student may need to secure admission at a university of their choice, such as SAT, AP’s etc. We also maintain in-depth knowledge of their visa requirements and documentation. In addition, we understand the financial implications and provide extensive information on the same. The team advises of the changes in the admissions guidelines, visa guidelines in real-time and therefore are equipped to guide the students accurately. We also constantly monitor any changes in education requirements and admissions procedures regionally and ensure that the highest standards are met.

As official representatives, we are trained and guided by the universities in person that allows us to impart the right and substantial information to the student that ensures that our success rate of admission is almost 97%. We are aware of all Academic and Language requirements of the universities.

IPC follows up queries with the partner universities regarding individual applications and keeps the potential student informed about the progress of their application. As far as possible, our team Familiarize potential students with all UK entry procedures and assist students in making an informed which is in their best interest. The long associations with the universities have enabled us to provide a holistic service that encapsulates all aspects of the admissions.

Our office in Dubai is equipped with all the information material about the universities that we partner with. In addition to the University brochures and ranking guides, IPC creates its brochures that condenses the relevant information for the students concerning the Middle East. The IPC Guide to Higher Studies is a well-received and appreciated publication that carries university relevant information as well as helpful tips on how to write the Statement of Purpose, Letter of Recommendation, Tuition Fees and Documentation and other important information for the students.

Counselling a student includes preparing him/her for the University of their choice. It includes profile building and guidance in the direction of the university. IPC Dubai will provide individual personalized and confidential counselling to each candidate. This will include personal profile counselling, career counselling, and course counselling. IPC Dubai Staff is regularly updated in the admissions matters regarding the universities we represent which are undertaken during many educational events in the Middle East and agent training sessions at the universities campuses. The international Officers from the universities train and update the staff from time to time both in-person and via the online mode. Information is also be provided to the parents and other sponsors whilst respecting the confidentiality of each applicant. For government and other commercially sponsored students, the appropriate arrangements for regular reports are organized by the team IPC.

A long experience with the counselling and constant appraisal process has enabled the team to assist the students to help with their subject and career choices. The team has developed an extensive workshop to help students THINK RIGHT and find structure to the madness. The workshop highlights the important topics of ‘Growth Mindset’ and ‘Confirmation Beliefs’. The team assists the students to map their Skill Gap which is an important attribute towards choosing the right career and subjects. We take pride in developing a system that is student-centric and has time and again helped them steer in the right direction. In addition to the admissions guidelines, we also advice the students about the study opportunities, Work Permit, Migration options, Entry Clearances, Cultural Matters and Acclimatization.

The long eventful journey of International Placewell Consultants has ensured that we have successfully placed thousands of students in an institution of their choice. We are official representative to our university partners which ensures that our services are continuously benchmarked and appropriate feedback is undertaken every year.

With each passing year, we increase our portfolio to ensure that there is a university for each student and we can thereby cater to every student that seek our services. Our role includes profiling the student to match them to the university hence we suggest a university factoring all important aspects such as grades, finances, ranking etc. All factors are taken into account to formulate a feasible plan for the students and thereby apply to universities in accordance.

While the world underwent a significant change during the COVID 19 onslaught, International Placwell Consultants understood the significance of keeping up with the changing scenario. The world switched to the online mode and so did we when the time demanded. We were pleasantly surprised with the online world that got together over the various portals of zoom, meets etc. We opened our screens and reached out to guide and assist the students to plan their future just like before. The exams have been cancelled, the guidelines have undergone a change and so have the visa rules. Some countries allowed students, some did not. Some universities opened their campuses, some did not. Some provided accommodations, some did not. The ever-changing world required us to not just keep up but also make sense out of it all. We condensed and processed the information for the students to enable them to make sense of it all and filter relevant information through the entire dump of information being shared on social media.

Our role underwent a lot of change, now in addition to just guiding the students, we also had to give them confidence about their future. Sometimes a lending ear and sometimes the sounding board, IPC team had to play the part that helped the students often through the computer screens.

The Covid has changed our line of work tremendously. While an online mode of education was not well accepted earlier and in most cases not even recognized, it has now become the accepted model. The world will go back to normal, but online acceptance in the education field is here to stay. It had opened many avenues for students and that will eventually play an advantageous part in our lives. As part of this complex field of education, International Placewell Consultants is working towards being part of the bright future.

In our adventure to the future, we are looking to partner with institutions that will provide the sought after courses and also those who will keep with the expectations of the students. The education destinations are changing and new doors are being opened and newer places being added. We look to work with these and adjust our portfolio to accommodate the changes and be future-ready.

Suzhou Singapore International School – Providing Excellent Education to The Expatriate

Location – 208 Zhong Nan StreetSuzhou Industrial ParkJiangsu China 215021

Website – https://www.suzhousinternationalschool.com/

Contact – +86 (0)512 6258 0388


School Introduction

Founded in 1996, Suzhou Singapore International School (SSIS) is a fully authorized IB World School with a student body of 1,000 coming from 50 different countries.  The IB is a highly respected programme of international education and considered among the most challenging academic programs currently offered. SSIS offers three IB programs, the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP) from Pre-Nursery to Grade 12, along with a German curriculum in the elementary school.

In particular, the IB diploma is considered as one of the most accepted programs of entry to university level. Students who graduate with a full IB diploma can apply to any university around the world. In addition to its academic rigor, SSIS has chosen to align itself with the IB programs as we strive to:

  • Encourage students of all ages to think critically and challenge assumption
  • Encourage students of all ages to consider both local and global contexts
  • Develop multilingual students.

Besides being the oldest and largest international school in Suzhou, SSIS is committed to providing a rigorous, holistic education to cultivate global citizens and life-long learners.

IB Results

SSIS has had some amazing IB DP results over the past seven years, performing well above world averages.  The Class of 2020 IB DP students had an Average Score of 38, a 100% pass rate, 2 perfect scores of 45, 31 students scored 40+, and 77% of our students received a bilingual diploma.

What differentiates SSIS?

SSIS is the oldest and largest international school in Suzhou, built specifically to support the needs of the growing Suzhou Industrial Park.  The school has spent years refining the education it presents. This is demonstrated in our excellent academic results, our truly international community and our inclusive and holistic education. SSIS believes that all students can learn and be successful.  We also recognize that students are all unique and learn differently, which is why we have put differentiation at the center of what we do, to ensure our students’ success.

History

In the 1990s development of Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP), an area to the east of Suzhou’s downtown area, commenced under the partnership of the Chinese and Singaporean governments.  During the development process, the team recognized that there would be a strong need for an international school to educate the children of incoming expatriates and SSIS was established.  During the 2021-2022 academic year, the school will celebrate its 25th anniversary.

Mission

The mission of the school is to provide an excellent education to the children of expatriate families.

Faculty

SSIS faculty come from over 20 different countries, with the majority coming from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland.  Recruiting the right teachers is the most important thing we can do to maintain our rigorous and holistic academic environment and our culture that is focused on offering a safe, student-centered learning environment for children.  We seek faculty who uphold these values, have an international mindset, a bachelor’s degree or higher, hold a teaching qualification from their home country and come to us with a minimum of two years teaching experience.  All teachers are vetted for a successful background check of working with students.

Head of School bio:  Samer Khouri

Over the past thirty years, Samer has worked in international schools in the Middle East, Africa, the UK and Italy. Most recently, Samer has worked as the Head of School at ICS International School Milan in Italy. Prior to this he was the Head of School at the International School in Genoa for 9 years. Samer has also served as the Principal at the American School of Milan and Head of Mathematics at the International School of Tanganyika and The Amman Baccalaureate School.

Samer has a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and a Master’s degree in International Education from the University of Bath (UK). In 2019, he was awarded a fellowship from Columbia University Teachers’ College (USA) for heads of schools to work collaboratively on perspectives in international education. Samer has extensive experience with the International Baccalaureate. He introduced one or more of the IB programmes into several of the schools in which he has served as an educational leader. Additionally, he has also worked for the International Baccalaureate in their Cardiff (UK) office, as the Subject Area Manager responsible for the curriculum and assessment of Mathematics and Computer Science. For the past nine years, Samer organized and hosted Education Across Frontiers, staff development workshops focused on coaching, inclusion and Adaptive Schools, which were attended by over 800 educators and school leaders from more than 50 countries.

Samer describes himself as an international educator with a passion for inclusion and differentiation of instruction to ensure that all students and teachers are successful. He is dedicated to building a truly united school community where the students are at the center of all that we do.

Student Wellbeing

SSIS offers a safe learning environment where children feel free to question their learning and area encouraged to challenge their surroundings.  Students are involved in all aspects of school life.  The student-centered approach extends to work to provide learning support for students with learning diversities and those requiring extra help.  In addition to differentiation in learning, SSIS also has a strong program focused on student social and emotional growth, including wellbeing courses and Social Emotional Counselors in the elementary and secondary school.

Support for Students

The SSIS Learning Support team is made up of specially trained teachers that have the background to assist students in their learning needs. Our team provides support to both students and homeroom teachers. Learning Support may include classroom accommodations, programme modifications, in-class support or individualised programming.

University Counseling

College Counsellors begin working with students in Grade 9 and increase their assistance and guidance in Grade 10 – Grade 12. In Grade 11, students meet regularly with College Counselors and do significant research on universities. Counsellors meet every two weeks with students throughout Grade 12, assisting students with the brainstorming and revision of their application essays. Over the course of the year, SSIS receives many visits from universities world-wide. During these visits, our students and families are able to gather information about the courses offered, ask questions, and explore the possibilities each institution may offer.  Graduates from SSIS are accepted into prestigious colleges and universities throughout the world (United States, UK, Korean, Japan, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, China).

Student Testimonial:

“SSIS has provided me an abundance of wonderful opportunities that foster development in all fields I have and do not have experience in.  These range from creative opportunities like Musicals in Production, to interschool sporting competitions like ACAMIS volleyball, to even synthesizing new service groups to impact the greater international community around us.  These shape and polish me as an individual, so that I can leave a greater person than when I arrived and truly embrace excellence.” – Kaeden, Class of 2022it.

Accreditations

CIS (Council of International Schools), NEASC (New English Association of Schools and Colleges), NCCT (National Centre for School Curriculum and Textbook Instruction), CISSA (China International School Sports Association), ACAMIS (Association of China and Mongolia International Schools), SISAC (Shanghai International School Athletic Conference), AISA (The Association of International Schools in Asia).

Shanghai Community International School – Bringing Students Closer to Culture and Language

Location – 198 Hengqiao Road, Zhoupu, Pudong, Shanghai, China 201315

Website – https://www.scis-china.org/

Contact – 86-21-5812-9888


Shanghai Community International School was established in 1996 as one of the first international schools in Shanghai. What started out as a single campus, in the heart of the Changning district of the city, with 7 teachers and less than 50 students, has since grown to include over 1,800 students studying at one of three campuses.

Over 25 years ago, we recognized that Shanghai needed a truly international school – a school that focuses on developing the whole child in a supportive and nurturing environment. One that celebrates the spirit of a community-centered and truly internationally minded education. SCIS was founded to serve that purpose.

Mission & Vision

Our mission: To develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring learners who contribute positively to their communities.

Our vision: We will be defined as a school of excellence by each of the constituents of our school community and the Shanghai expatriate populations. We envision…

  • A diverse student population from around the world
  • A system in which every student has equal opportunities for success and for university admission, based on a variety of performance indicators
  • A system meeting the needs of individual learners, rather than making the learner fit the system
  • A system that allows students to achieve standards through inquiry-based, conceptual learning in motivating, authentic environments
  • Students who will be well-rounded, community contributors armed with the academic and personal skills to succeed in the adult world and who see the relevance and purpose in their learning
  • staff who feel a high degree of purpose, job satisfaction, pride, and personal growth
  • parents who feel informed, valued, and satisfied
  • a strong connection to the Shanghai community and the perception that SCIS represents ‘excellence’

Shanghai Community International School operates three campuses across both sides of the Huangpu river of Shanghai. Our purpose-built school facilities and flexible learning spaces are designed to enhance the SCIS learning experience.

World-Class Facilities:

Our purpose-built facilities reflect our school mission, allowing us to provide a wide range of spaces for our students to pursue personal and academic excellence. Our innovative classrooms are all equipped with developmentally appropriate resources and technology and were designed to be flexible to support a variety of learning experiences. Community spaces are designed to foster social interaction and the exchange of ideas.

SCIS features a centralized state-of-the-art indoor air filtration system across all of our campuses. Our three campuses feature:

  • 6 lanes, 25-meter length swimming pools
  • Two-story, 700 seat auditoriums
  • 10,000 square foot Black Box theatre
  • Art Gallery
  • Rock Climbing walls
  • Indoor Basketball Courts
  • Strength and Conditioning Weight Rooms
  • Full health clinic staffed by professional nurses from WorldPath clinic
  • Smart Boards
  • Dance Halls
  • Art Studios
  • All-weather outdoor soccer pitches
  • Outdoor Jungle Gym Playgrounds
  • Indoor Fun Center: ball pits, sand pits and slides
  • Science and Computer Labs
  • Audio Visual Media Lab

Courses Offered

At the core of our learning program is maintaining a commitment to student development and educational excellence through our curriculumSchoolwide Learner Outcomes (SLOs), and school mission. Through a student-centered approach, we focus on nurturing students to become the best version of themselves by providing flexible learning experiences.

As an IB World School, SCIS provides a full continuum of programs from Nursery through Grade Twelve, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). The IB is an academically rigorous, college-preparatory program which is balanced by an emphasis on personal development and fostering artistic, athletic, and global citizenship endeavors. Under the aegis of the IB, the SCIS Mission is to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring learners who contribute positively to their communities. This mission has propelled SCIS to the forefront of education in Shanghai.

Primary Year Programme (PYP) prepares students to become active, caring, lifelong learners who demonstrate respect for themselves and others and have the capacity to participate in the world around them. It focuses on the development of the whole child as an inquirer, both within and beyond the classroom. (Age 2-10/Nursery to Grade 5)

Middle Year Programme (MYP) is a challenging framework that encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world. The MYP is a five-year programme, which can be implemented in a partnership between schools. Students who complete the MYP are well-prepared to undertake the IB Diploma Programme (DP). (Age 11-15/Grade 6-Grade 10)

Diploma Programme (DP) is designed as an academically challenging and balanced program of education with final examinations that prepares students for success at university and life beyond. (Age 16-17/Grade 11 and Grade 12)

Beyond the Traditional Curriculum

School-Wide Learner Outcomes

Our four core School-wide Learner Outcomes identify what we believe every learner at SCIS should aspire to achieve.

  • Think critically and creatively
  • Apply learning to real-life situations
  • Show flexibility in analyzing and evaluating resources, strategies, and perspectives
  • Ask questions and seek answers as a result of intrinsic motivation and curiosity
  • Seek factual and conceptual connections
  • Determine bias and perspective
  • Acknowledge challenges and actively develop solutions
  • Act with integrity
  • Maintain an active, balanced, and healthy lifestyle
  • Embrace new opportunities and challenges
  • Reflect for self-improvement
  • Initiate action to impact their communities
  • Nurture caring and collaborative relationships
  • Communicate with others effectively and respectfully

Holistic Development

At SCIS, learning extends beyond classroom walls. Our co-curricular program provides extensive enrichment opportunities for students to explore their talents, develop new skills and extend areas of interest, in a supportive and engaging environment.

THE RENAISSANCE IDEAL:
We are most proud of the community culture that encourages students to be fluent across many disciplines from academics to athletics to art. These diverse activities provide outlets for passions to flourish, while keeping our students balanced and connected to the community.

EXPANSIVE EXTRA-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES”
We encourage our students to pursue their passions, whatever they may be, with more than 80 sports, clubs and arts options available. Through these extracurricular experiences, we believe students will be able to cultivate new skills and aptitudes to succeed in life.

GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP:
We challenge our learners to be global citizens and live meaningful, engaged lives that make a difference. Throughout the year, students are able to be involved in a number of different community service projects, as well as yearly China Trips to learn more about our host country, China.

ONE COMMUNITY: A Truly International Experience

Our warm, dynamic, and welcoming community is the result of the diverse and inclusive group of students, teachers, parents, and staff who choose to call SCIS their second home. Events like the United Nations International Day of Peace, for example, truly showcase the uniqueness that makes up the DNA at SCIS.

MULTI-CULTURAL, MULTI-ETHNIC, AND MULTI-LINGUAL ENVIRONMENT:
Since 1996, families from nearly every corner of the Earth have enrolled at Shanghai Community International School. This school year alone, SCIS has students from over 65 countries, speaking any one of the 45 plus languages and dialects our families communicate in.

ONE WORLD FAMILY:
One of the most unique strengths behind SCIS is our outstanding community. It is a place where all members of the community go out of their way to ensure a sense of belonging and provide support when, and whenever, it is needed.

INTERNATIONAL MINDEDNESS:
SCIS provides our students with the chance to create global understanding, gain intercultural communication skills, and enhance additional language acquisition. This all occurs within a shared context that stresses the importance of respecting one another’s cultural backgrounds, traditions, values, and beliefs.

Financial Assistance

Shanghai Community International School (SCIS) recognizes the financial burden incurred for families choosing to pursue private international education in Shanghai, as well as the additional expense for those families who are transitioning to Shanghai and/or SCIS. SCIS is fortunate enough to have access to a Financial Aid Fund provided by the SCIS Board of Directors. This fund is intended to support families that we believe will add to the richness of our school community and is exclusively preserved for families that demonstrate financial need and who do not receive full support from their employer. SCIS offers additional financial support through various other discount funds (i.e. early payment discount) and individualized payment plan options.

Determination of assistance is centered on a computational model that is similar to many used in other school Financial Aid programs and on the professional judgment of the SCIS Financial Aid Committee regarding the special circumstances of the applicant family.

Successful graduates of SCIS earn a High School Diploma needed for acceptance into major universities around the world. Additionally, most SCIS graduates earn a full IB Diploma, widely recognized as the most academically rigorous diploma in the world, being accepted in 3,300 top universities from 90 countries. Successful completion of the IB Diploma often qualifies for university credits and opens additional doors for university acceptance into the most selective universities in the world.

Future Career Opportunities

The Job-Shadow Experience for Grade ten students

65 students were placed within 42 Shanghai-based companies to learn about the corporate, creative and entrepreneurial life and the skills needed to succeed.  We vetted many companies to find the most exciting and educational placement for our students.  Students applied for specific companies and the committee matched the most qualified student to the appropriate experience based on applications and teacher recommendation letters.  Students spent 20 hours working, shadowing and learning from a mentor within a field of their interest.  The outcome was 100% satisfaction from the industry mentors and students.  We did not learn of any negative feedback from either side, but only encouraging words for future relationships.

The job-shadow experience was a win-win for both the students and the companies. Students gained knowledge within a particular profession and learned lessons about their own strengths and weaknesses. Mentors had a fresh and youthful perspective on their product, business, and competition.

Awards, Accreditations and Collaborations

INCLUSIVE, RIGOROUS LEARNING ENVIRONMENT:

  • 45/45 highest IBDP score
  • 2 times as many top ranked IBDP scores than world average
  • 100% of students have the opportunity to participate in the IB

UNIVERSITY ACCEPTANCES:

  • 100% accepted to universities
  • 15% accepted to top 10 universities worldwide
  • 40% accepted to top 50 universities worldwide
  • >23 different country destinations

On their path to making positive contributions to their communities, SCIS alumni have attended many prestigious universities and colleges across the globe.

AN IB CONTINUUM WORLD SCHOOL
Shanghai Community International School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum World School, offering the Primary Years Programme in our Early Childhood and Lower School divisions, and the Middle Years and Diploma Programmes in our Upper School.

ACCREDITATIONS
Additionally, SCIS is accredited through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is a member of the East Asia Regional Conference of Overseas Schools  (EARCOS) and the Association of China and Mongolia International Schools (ACAMIS).

Holy Child College – Providing Quality Education for The Girls

Location – Holy Child College 12 Ojo Street Off Toyan Street South-West Ikoyi,Lagos-Nigeria.

Website https://www.holychildcollegeswikoyi.org/

Contact – +234816-608-6916


Brief History of The College

The establishment of Holy Child College as a mission school was not for financial gain, but to provide quality education for the girls in the manner that St. Gregory’s College was for the boys. Holy Child College, South West Ikoyi, Lagos was established by the Sisters of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, in 1945. The Society of the Holy Child Jesus, which was founded by Rev. Mother Cornelia Connelly (Venerable) in 1846 in England, was then well known all over the world for its excellent educational program, especially for girls, based on trust and reverence for the dignity of each person.  Holy Child College provides an environment that will holistically nurture the girl child through a dynamic academic, spiritually enriched and psycho-socially diversified curricula with quest for academic  excellence and ethos of Christian values.

Thousands of students passed through this noble institution which has a distinguished history of excellence both in academics and morals. Generations of families have sent and continue to send their cherished daughters to Holy Child College. Today, Holy Child College is easily numbered as one of the Best High Schools for girls in the country, considering her original and present remarkable progress in both morals and academics.

Holy Child College has a state of the art facilities for an International standard school category. The three well equiqqed Modern Science laboratories, Library, Clinic, Modern facility Dormitory blocks, ICT compliance classroom for online teaching and hybridization of methodology.

Our Motto: Facta Non Verba.

Our Mission Statement

Schools of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus share in the mission of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus. HOLY CHILD COLLEGE, therefore, is, POISED

  1. To develop mature persons capable of making choices that will enrich their own lives and contribute positively to the lives of others.
  2. To provide a conducive teaching and learning environment.
  3. To enhance the high academic performance of the students and provide intellectual skills through qualitative and quantitative education.
  4. To develop, through a holistic approach to learning, the all-round talent of the girl child: academic, spiritual, socio-cultural and physical skills.
  5. To foster joy in learning for students and staff through celebrations.

 

Vision

  1. To provide a Christian atmosphere in which the whole person is capable of developing to her highest potential.
  2. To encourage the Christian formation of young women capable of exercising responsible freedom by offering them the opportunity in trust, where they learn to make choices and hold themselves accountable for these choices as mature Christians.
  3. To help them discover the value of the human person by assisting the students to gain knowledge and appreciate themselves and others around them.
  4. To provide a holistic education that will enable the girl child to develop into a well formed person capable of joining hands with men and women of integrity to contribute her quota to the socio-political, economic and spiritual development of her nation and the world at large.

 

Academics

In addition to 25 subjects offered  in the Senior School and 18 subjects  offered in the junior school. Our girls are exposed to Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Training, Robotics Programme, Computer programming, Engineering and coding system.

Girls who study at Holy Child College are exposed to diverse learning experiences, rigorous academic pursuits, highly competitive sports, entertaining social events and daily peer camaraderie. Holy Child College has won laurels in Essay Writing, Debates, Quizzes, Music, Arts, Chess, NISSMUN Conference competitions, and Cultural performances. Equally, our students have excelled in external examinations as our WASSCE (Senior School) and Lagos State (Junior School) results are always above the benchmark.

You find the best practices of classroom management, cross circular and project based instruction in Holy Child College. Our students learn skills for entrepreneurship purposes.

The Old Girls collaborate extensively with the college through the provision of:

  1. Mentoring Program
  2. Maths laboratory.
  3. The Computer laboratory.
  4. The Language Laboratory.
  5. Sponsoring of awards (students and staff).

The prominent personalities among the college Alumni include Joke Silva Jacobs an award winning Nigeria Actress, a movie and theatre director, Late Francesca Emanuel, the first Female Permanent Secretary in the Federal Civil Service of Nigeria.

Miss Stephanie Agbasi (MBGM), Miss Universe.

Honourable Abike Kafayat  Dabiri a Nigerian politician, The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and former member of the Nigeria Federal House of Representatives.

Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu  the First Lady of Lagos State – Her  Excellence.

Holy Child College has many accolades, triumph and accomplishment. The school major awards and achievement (few listed below) in the recent past.

General Awards:

  1. 2018 Eti-Osa Youth movement award for best school in creativity and Development.
  2. 2018 Winner of Indian Language school Inter- School Debate (Junior category)
  3. 2018 Eco- Friendly children’s painting contest. 3rd Winner – Olugbenga Ayooluwa.
  4. West African Quality Education 2018 Award to the West African’s School most innovative quality Education School 2018.
  5. 2018/2019 – Conrad challenge 19 Students got scholarship award to study in Clarkson University,USA.
  6. 2019 Prestige Award for the best school in Eti-Osa Local Government Area.
  7. 2019 Five consecutive winners of the Elite Basketball Female Team.
  8. African Brand Review 2019 award on Africa Top School. School (Silver category).
  9. 2019 Nigerian Model United Nations Society Award for best Cultural performance. Awards of different categories for students who participated. Onafowokan Yewande – Secretary General,  , Lagos Regional Secondary Schools Model United Nations (LARSSMUN) 2020.
  10. 2019 Common wealth essay competition. 4 of our students participated. We got 2 silvers and 1 Bronze.
  11. (Nigerian International Secondary Schools Model United Nations Conference) NISSMUM School Award – 2nd best school delegate and Best cultural night presentation 2019.
  12. 2020/2021 Conrad challenge (An annual multi phase, innovation and entrepreneurial competition) in which 41 students won scholarship. Award of Excellence to the most resilient school.
  13. Adewolu Jadesola – Awarded President of General Assembly, Lagos Regional Secondary Schools Model United Nations (LARSSMUN) 2020.
  14. 2020 Common wealth essay competition. 15 of our students participated. We got 3 golds, 3 silvers and 3 Bronzes.
  15. 2020/2021 Conrad challenge award to the winners and best Team’s school on cyber Technology and security.

 

Sports Awards : Different outstanding Awards for Sports Competition.

The best female coach and the highest Goal scorer in  Lagos State Schools cup.

Award For 2017/2018 –

  1. CATHOLIC INTERCOLLEGIATE GAMES – 1ST POSITION WITH:-
    14 Gold medals

6 Silver medals

6 Bronze medals

  1. CHANNEL TELEVISION TRACK AND FIELD – 6TH POSITION

Award For 2018/2019

  1. Elite School Basketball Competition (1ST EDITION) – FIRST POSITION
  2. Channel Television Track And Field – 4TH POSITION

Award For 2019/2020

  1. Elite School Basketball Competition (2ND EDITION) –   2ND  POSITION
  2. Elite School Athletics Competition (2ND EDITION)  – 2ND POSITION

In line with our objective of promoting qualitative education, Holy Child College engages the staff and students in seminars, conferences and educational tours, aimed at developing interpersonal skills, leadership qualities and in preparation for jobs of the future. Our College international excursions cover countries such as Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana, England, United States of America, France and Italy.

  • Holy Child College initiates programs for students’ continual development; activities that enhance their intellectual, moral and spiritual performance and creativity.
  • To foster students’ development, the school management will continue to uphold and support students with life-transforming non-academic programs like seminars, creative writing & speech improvement programs, retreats, community service, career activities, catechism/confirmation classes, moral talks and prefects’ leadership workshops are made available to students.
  • Students are encouraged to develop attitudes of intellectual honesty and integrity through hard work and effective utilization of the college facilities and programs.
  • The college sources for and acquires (within our reach) current teaching and learning applications, personnel and strategies that enable students to stay ahead of their peer.
  • Dinner outing for outstanding students.
  • Speech and Prize giving day for award ceremony.
  • Community Service Instruction.
  • One day students’

Financial Assistance to students in need is through Scholarships of different categories. The College has an Education Trust Fund and the church awards Scholarship as well.

Holy Child Students have different career opportunities that exposed students to both Academic and Non academic life situations. You will find Holy Child students in different walks of life.

In addition to the traditional occupations like Medicine, Engineering and Law, you will find Holy Child students in theatre arts, Hospitality, Management, Tourism e.t.c.

Loyola Jesuit College – Bringing Students Closer to Culture and Language

Location – Loyola Street, Gidan Mangoro, Karu-Karshi Road Abuja , Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria

Website http://www.loyolajesuit.org/

Contact – +234 811 468 1636


Loyola Jesuit College (LJC) is a Catholic, Jesuit, non-profit, co-educational boarding secondary school, sponsored by North-West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus (a Roman Catholic religious order). LJC was established in the year 1996. The pioneer set of 101 JS1 students began classes in October, and were the First graduating SSCE student in the year 2002. Seventy-nine students graduated.

Mission for A Bright Future

The mission of Loyola Jesuit College is to devote itself to the ministry of the intellectual, moral and religious formation of girls and boys of all religious faiths, tribes and socio-economic backgrounds who will serve God and others. While forming women and men for the service of God and others in the Jesuit tradition is the goal of Loyola Jesuit College.

Loyola Jesuit College is owned by an independent Board of Trustees and governed by a two-tier Board of Trustees and Governors. As an educational community of shared vision, Loyola Jesuit College does not discriminate on the basis of religion, economic status, sex, tribal affiliation, and regional origin in the administration of its educational and admission policies, and employment practices.

One of the specific contributions of Jesuit educators is that they are orientated to certain values. Jesuits and their colleagues at Loyola Jesuit College pledge themselves to the faith development of their students. Development of religious principles and moral values is central to the curriculum. We are a school community of women and men who are concerned for the others as members of God’s family. In service of our mission, everyone strives in the creating and sustaining of a vibrant learning environment that is characterized by respect and care of the whole person (Cura personalis). Policies are aimed at creating a “culture of excellence”, facilitating the acquisition of habits of creative collaboration, risk-taking, rigorous competency, accountability, and astute moral courage.

The ways in which the board contribute in shaping the college include the following:

  • The first mission of the Board is to safeguard and guarantee the Jesuit identity and mission of Loyola Jesuit College as an apostolic ministry of the Society of Jesus.
  • The Board of Trustees ensures and provides the spiritual tone and direction of Loyola Jesuit College consistent with the missions and traditions of Catholic and Jesuit education.
  • The Board of Trustees is a legislative body which has the responsibility of determining the broad policies under which the College serves.
  • The Provincial of the ANW serves as its Chair.
  • The Board, the legal entity of the College (corporation), serves as the legal custodian of all its assets.
  • The Board establishes and maintains a solid financial foundation for LJC.
  • It sees that the College fulfills its educational purpose as defined by various Jesuit educational policies and criteria.
  • The Board authorizes, reviews, and approves academic and financial planning to determine its aims and to ensure the implementation of the College’s objectives.
  • The Board approves the annual budget.
  • The Board judges the work of its executive officer, the President, and reviews the operation of the College.
  • In all of its activities, the authority of the Board of Trustees rests in the Board as a whole and not in its individual members.
  •  

Extra curricular

In exposing students to different experiences (beyond mastery of skills for the successful life) that form contexts within which LJC students could give expressions to faith in our Christian Service Programs, our students are helped to develop a spirit of generosity, as LJC assists in the total formation of persons for active life commitment as leaders-in-service. Consequently, “Service of God and Others” becomes the living motto of Loyola Jesuit College students and alumni.

By encouraging students’ participation in all school activities especially co-curricular activities like the drama club and other cultural activities that portray the various cultures in the country. The college has formidable structures to provide support to all students, especially international students, to enable them adapt seamlessly to the academic and co-curricular life of the college. These support structures include the counselling department, the chaplaincy unit, and the student life department, among others

Alumni stories

  • Samuel Aboyeji (member of the Board of Governors)
  • The Dr Alumni speaker of 2019 graduation
  •  

Awards and Achievements

I consider ERNEST-EZE Munachi Jachike’s academic performance very outstanding, as he always scored an average of 80% or more in a school where 65% is considered the least satisfactory average, and where the curriculum is highly demanding. He has achieved several academic feats especially in the Sciences. He won the   Cowbell Mathematics Competition in 2015 and 2017 (at both the junior and senior categories). These winnings (of the National Mathematics competition) tell the doggedness that is typical to Munachi. Also worthy of mention are other unique performances which happened at National Olympiad for Informatics (Nigeria 2016, 2015), and the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad, where he came 2nd and 3rd places respectively. With this extraordinary performance, Munachi set the amiable record and emerged Overall Best in Mathematics and Sciences at Loyola Jesuit College in 2015, 2016 and 2017 respectively.

Outside the classroom, Munachi was versatile, and exhibited his talent in sports, music, entrepreneurship and writing. He (and his team) won the 100m dash, 400m race, 4 X 100 m relay at the Loyola Jesuit College Inter House Competitions in 2014, 2016, and 2017 respectively. Munachi is a member of the school’s choir, and the Accapella Group. He has a 2017 music album (‘March 14’) to his credit. Munachi was the Advertisement Manager of the Junior Achievement Enterprise. The enterprise is an organization of young entrepreneurs who develop skills that enable them raise funds for developmental projects in Gidan Mangoro Village (the village where the College is situated). As Member of the School Press, Munachi shared the responsibility of providing the student body with information on current affairs.

In the summer of his 10th Grade, Munachi took part in the Citizenship and Leadership Training (Man O War) Programme – organised by the Presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to train young men and women in the art of leadership.  Having acquired the needed leadership skill, he spent three weeks in the summer of his 11th Grade as a volunteer in an orphanage in Enugu State Nigeria. Munachi also served in different leadership capacities in the College. He was a Refectory Leader, Sectional Head for Hostel Affairs, Student Representative Council Deputy Speaker, President Jets and Brain Crackers Club and School Relay Captain.

Munachi, as a result of his numerous remarkable achievements and his exemplary lifestyle was presented as a Role Model to the College by the Principal on June 26, 2017. 

Okeke Favour had severally represented the school in inter-school competition in Mathematics and in Sciences and often won awards for himself and the school. Some of the awards that he has won include: Olympiad(Junior Mathematics) at national level he won a gold medal in 2016; Olympiad(Junior Science) at national level  he came first position with a gold medal in 2017; Olympiad(Informatics) at national level, he won a gold medal (first position) 2017; Chemical Society of Nigeria Science Competition-at state level, he came second and qualified for the national round in (2018); and Interspark Switch Science Competition at regional level, he came top 81 in Nigeria and qualified for the next stage of the competition (2018). 

OJUBA Mezisashe Shalom is one of the exceptional students I have encountered. Her exploits in math and sciences had given her several awards within and outside the school. She held the award of the overall best in Mathematics, Chemistry, physics and Further mathematics from her 10th grade through to 12th grade. Her diligence and attention to detail was critical in making her the best in practical sciences in her 11th grade. She represented the school in the Annual Interswitch SPAK National science quiz competition where she came out first overall in the national preliminaries. She finished as the 2nd runner up of the PZ Cussons Nationwide Chemistry Challenge in 2019 and was the First prize winner at the annual Chemistry Competition organized by the Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN) in 2019. She was the national winner, kangaroo mathematics competition, 2019. 

Personal Touch for Overall Growth 

Students in each year are divided into four class sections labelled A through D. A class teacher is attached to each section and remains with it for at least one academic session. There are three opportunities for class teachers to meet formally with their students on a weekly basis:

  • Daily, during registration
  • Weekly, Guidance lessons
  • Weekly, Personal-Social Education (PSE)

Class teachers are responsible for the pastoral care of all the students in their class and try as much as possible to get a true portrait of each student to enable them to make useful reports to the Principal and their parents. They constantly monitor the behaviour and work of each student and try to see that their classes obey the rules and regimen of the college.

Subject teachers are divided into departments and faculties, each supervised by a head of department and  a head of faculty. The heads of faculties organise regular faculty meetings and also meet with the Principal and the Vice Principal  Academics as a group and on an individual basis. Likewise, the heads of departments.

Planned Present & Future

First, we offer a Merit-Base scholarship to the best two candidates (a boy and a girl) in the college entrance examination. Secondly, we offer a Need-Base scholarship to candidates that pass our entrance exam but do not have the financial capacity to fund their education in the college, such candidates would have to apply for the need based scholarship and the Scholarship Committee would conduct a scholarship screening exercise for applicant to determine the percentage of scholarship to be awarded.

Upon graduation from the college Our students undertake careers in diverse fields in the sciences, social science and arts.

5 Tips for Balancing A Career and Caregiving

An estimated 34 million Americans provide unpaid care to adults age 50 or older every year, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP, and that number is rapidly growing. More than half of those caregivers feel they have to make compromises at work to care for their aging parents, according to a new survey from Home Instead, Inc., franchisor of the Home Instead Senior Care network.

With the rise in our aging population, more and more adult children are assuming the role of caregiver while also maintaining a full- or part-time job. This pressure to balance work and caregiving responsibilities has left 61 percent of working caregivers feeling as if they must choose between being a good employee and being a good daughter or son. To make matters worse, only 29 percent of these caregivers are satisfied with their employer’s family leave policy.

As this issue grows to impact a larger percentage of the workforce, it will be essential that employees and employers work together to find solutions. Consider the following recommendations as ways to get started:

1. Ask for help – For caregivers, it can be extremely difficult, but also tremendously beneficial, to ask their employer for help. For employers, create opportunities for employees to express their needs. Schedule brief weekly meetings to check in and ask how they are doing. Transparency helps eliminate pressure on the employees to keep their concerns to themselves.

2. Create a flexible policy -When it comes to caring for a loved one, there are no fixed hours or planned deadlines; emergency situations can come at any moment. With a plan in place, employers and employees can be on the same page about flexible working hours or situations that require time off.

3. Offer in-office assistance – Employers can create a culture of safety for working caregivers by forming a support group for employees who are in similar situations. Such groups not only provide a place for relief, but also create the opportunity for employees to grow relationships with one another – positively affecting workplace culture.

4. Provide care for the caregiver – It can be easy for a caregiver to quickly forget about his or her own needs when caring for a loved one. Encourage individuals to take time to care for their own physical, mental and emotional well-being. In addition, pay attention to signs that indicate your employee may need a break. Connect them with available resources or encourage time away from work.

5. Make time to listen – Lending an ear is one of the most impactful things an employer can do for a working caregiver. More than half of caregivers have expressed feelings of depression and find it difficult to care for themselves. When employers open the door for a conversation, they are providing hope and reassurance to the working caregiver.

How to Boost Your Business in A Digital Environment

Now more than ever, businesses need to explore how to best serve their customers in the digital marketplace. That means finding ways to stay relevant and keep their audiences engaged. A professional development webinar series from the National Kitchen & Bath Association shows businesses how to develop and maintain a strong online presence.

The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is a non-profit trade group for the kitchen and bath industry.

The series opens with Jim Nowakowski, a marketing and marketing communications specialist with more than 20 years of experience, notably in the manufacturing and publishing industries. Mr. Nowakowski brings his considerable expertise in communications and business-to-business advertising purchasing patterns to the webinars. The series kicked off on January 10 with “Staying in Front of Your Customers in a Digital Environment.”

Positive feedback from attendees emphasized Mr. Nowakowski’s enthusiasm and business acumen, with comments about his material and delivery such as, “his examples were detailed and easy to understand, with stories that made a point,” and “he was the best presenter I have seen in a while, very engaging and entertaining.”

“It’s always an honor to present my business topics to designers, showroom consultants, architects, and manufacturers,” Nowakowski said after the presentation.

“When I received the feedback, I was thrilled that the audience walked away with knowledge they can use,” he adds.
The webinar focuses on providing the audience with information on digital disruption in the marketplace and what strategic tools can keep a business relevant and valuable in servicing customers.

For example, participants learn how value comes from differentiation and the importance of what makes a business unique.
“What do you do that your competitor doesn’t do? What does your competitor do that you don’t?” Mr. Nowakowski asks.
Mr. Nowakowski also emphasizes how business basics never change, even in the age of disruption, and reviews tactics on how to stay in front of customers in a digital environment that includes using advertising, phone surveys, and quality service.

6 Tips on How to Stay Active at Home

In the past few weeks, it has become clear that social distancing and quarantining are the new normal. This is an overwhelming time as we attempt to adjust our mindsets and schedules – between working from home, watching after the kids, keeping up with the news, and maintaining sanity, it can be a challenge to prioritize your physical and mental health. Here are some tips on how to stay active in these strange and unprecedented times. Make a plan It’s always easier to commit to a healthy habit if you make it part of your routine.

At the beginning of each week, take a look at your schedule and find those windows where you could realistically squeeze in a workout. Set a reminder on your phone or even add the workout to your calendar to keep yourself accountable.

Try a meal delivery service It may be difficult to cook healthy meals every day, especially if you can’t get what you need from the grocery store. Having healthy food delivered safely to your door can alleviate the stress and hassle of cooking, plus having healthy options in the house will keep you from overeating and reaching for junk food. South Beach Diet, for example, offers fully nutritionally balanced, prepared meals and snacks that make it easy to keep your diet on track. Take breaks from work It can be tempting to sit around all day while you’re working from home, but don’t let yourself stay sedentary for too long. Get away from your workspace and move around every hour or so to get your blood flowing. This will help you to stay sharp and healthy during social isolation.

If you’re taking a phone call, stand up, and allow yourself to pace around. Try to get up every hour and take a few steps around the house, stretch, or even do a few jumping jacks. Stream, stream, streams gyms, and workout studios are necessarily closed for the moment, many fitness brands and instructors are using Instagram live to hold virtual classes. If you have a favorite local studio or a favorite instructor, check out their website or social media to see if they are hosting any online classes. Many fitness brands are also offering extended free trials to access their libraries of workout videos. Go for a walk or run Of course, we are all limiting our trips outside to the grocery store, gas station, or anywhere else we might come in close contact with others. But if you are able to safely run or walk while keeping a distance from your neighbors, those are great options for staying active, clearing your mind, and getting some fresh air.”It’s so important to find those moments of joy outdoors while we’re all social distancing,” says Jessie James Decker, mother of three and South Beach Diet brand ambassador. “Whatever that means for you – whether it’s a stroll around the neighborhood with the kids or a long run to clear your head – you’ll feel so much better if you take the time for it.” Keep your mind active just as our bodies need physical activity to stay healthy, our minds need stimulation (beyond reality TV binge sessions) to stay sharp as well. Group activities such as board games or puzzles are a great option for keeping your mind sharp while clocking some quality time with your family or roommates.

Hands-Only CPR Can Save Someone You Love

Each year, June 1-7 is designated as CPR and AED Awareness Week. This year, the significance is especially striking. As most Americans continue to spend more of their time at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, the odds of cardiac arrests in a home setting are likely to increase, according to the American Heart Association. Each year, more than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States, with about 70 percent happening in homes. Fortunately, Hands-Only CPR can be performed by family or household members. Even in the time of COVID-19, household members may be the lowest-risk providers of CPR at home because they have likely already been exposed, if, in fact, the cardiac-arrest victim has COVID-19.”Rather than waiting for first responders to arrive, performing immediate CPR in the case of cardiac arrest can double or triple a victim’s odds of survival,” says Comilla Sasson, M.D. and Vice President of Emergency Cardiovascular Care at the American Heart Association. “If you are willing and able to do CPR, you should do CPR, even during this pandemic.”Hands-Only CPR involves two simple steps and anyone can learn it from a 90-second video available at heart.org/handsonlycpr.Step 1: If a teen or adult in your home suddenly collapses, call 911 immediately. Step 2: Place one hand on top of the other as shown in the video and push hard and fast on the victim’s chest.

Tempo matters. Rescuers should push on the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 beats per minute and the American Heart Association advises following the beat of any of several songs, including “Stayin’ Alive,” by the Bee Gees, “Crazy in Love,” by Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z, “Hips Don’t Lie,” by Shakira” or “Walk the Line,” by Johnny Cash. People feel more confident performing Hands-Only CPR and are more likely to remember the correct rate when trained to the beat of a familiar song. In 2009, the American Heart Association launched a nationwide Hands-Only CPR campaign, supported nationally by an educational grant from the Anthem Foundation, to raise awareness about this life-saving skill. More than 10 million people have been trained in Hands-Only CPR via events, training kiosks, and video education with the Foundation’s support. Take advantage of shelter-in-place time and brush up on your Hands-Only CPR skills: you just might save someone you love. Visit heart.org/handsonlycpr to watch and share the Hands-Only CPR instructional video.