What is The Awada School?

Overview:

The Awada School is a private, co-educational institution in Bo, Sierra Leone, founded by Mrs. Odette P. Awada in 1976. It has grown from a small nursery to a comprehensive school system offering education from Toddler/Montessori (1.5 years and above) through Senior Secondary (SSS 3).

Vision & Mission:

• Vision: To develop the minds of kids to be innovative, creative thinkers, problem solvers, skilled communicators, and responsible leaders of the future.
• Mission: To educate the human potential through a partnership between the home and the school that fosters intellectual growth, independence, responsibility, and a sense of self-worth.

Key Information:

• Accreditation: Fully accredited by the Ministry of Education (MEST) to present pupils for NPSE (Primary 6), BECE (JSS 3), and WASSCE (SSS 3) exams.
• Curriculum: Follows the national syllabus prescribed by MEST, including core subjects and departments for Arts, Science, and Commerce at the secondary level.
• Facilities: Modern classrooms, science and computer labs, a library, a multi-purpose hall, and sports grounds. The school has a bus service with a fee charged.
• Language: English is the language of instruction and is compulsory on campus.

Admission Requirements:

• Admission is based on age-appropriateness for lower levels and passing entrance exams for transfer students.
• Transfers must present report cards, a transfer certificate, and pass the school's Standard Admission Test (SAT) in Maths, English, and General Paper.
• Terms: Three-term year (September–July), aligned with MEST guidelines.

School Culture & Discipline:

• Uniform: A strict uniform policy is in place, with specific daily and ceremonial attire for each department. Neatness is mandatory.
• Conduct: High standards of behavior are enforced. Punishments for breaches range from detention to suspension and, for extreme offences, expulsion. Prohibited acts include fighting, drugs, weapons, vulgar language, and mobile phones in class.
• Houses: Students are divided into four houses (Sewa, Bintumani, Rokel, Gola) for competitive activities.
• Religion: Non-denominational; morning devotions include both Christian and Muslim prayers.

Fees & Administration:

• Fees: Fees are cost-recovery based and must be paid in full and in advance. Arrears can lead to legal action and prevent students from sitting exams.
• Leadership: The school has a Board of Governors and a Prefectoral System where student leaders are elected/appointed to assist in administration.

Notable Features:

• Awards: Offers scholarships and prizes for academic excellence and all-around achievement.
• Clubs: Encourages participation in various clubs like Scouts, Red Cross, Drama, and Debating.
• History: Founded and managed for over 40 years by Mrs. Odette P. Awada until her passing in 2016. The school is now managed by her daughter, Mrs. Chadia Awada Talib, who is committed to maintaining its legacy of academic excellence.

Community Engagement

• Open partnership policy with parents via CTA meetings.
• Annual events like Founder’s Day and Sports/Prize-Giving Day.

Conclusion:

The Awada School is a well-established, disciplined, and academically focused institution dedicated to providing quality education and developing well-rounded individuals.

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