Mr. Colin’s Column
Dear Parents,
We have had a very busy Term 2 to date. Select the + for further information and click on the video for my full review of our first two months of this year.
Kind regards,
Mr. Colin
Click here for Mr. Colin's Full Letter
We have had a very busy Term 2 to date. Firstly, we extend our congratulations to our students who achieved outstanding results in the County Mathematics Competition. In particular, we wish to acknowledge Kira in Year 9 for securing first place and earning a place in the A’ Selection Competition for international mathematics contests.
The house points competition was particularly close this term. The House of Air led with 536 points, while the Houses of Earth, Water, and Fire were not far behind.
Furthermore, we would like to congratulate the newly appointed Eco Warriors who eagerly anticipate working with the entire school community on a range of environmental initiatives. The PAG leadership team, comprising Chair Marcella, Vice-Chair Sivan, and Treasurer Maria are looking forward to further parent engagement opportunities in the next half term.
This half-term was replete with a variety of engaging events and excursions, and March promises even further opportunities. Notable forthcoming events include the Carnival, Fun Run, Science Week, Book Week, and the Robotics Competition in Nicosia. Additionally, a beach clean-up, organised in collaboration with City Friends, is scheduled for the 22nd of March, with all community members welcome to participate.
Our new sports fields have proven extremely popular, and PE lessons are in full swing. The padel courts and outdoor learning area are on track for completion in April, while lockers will be available for student use during March.
On the secondary campus, construction of our new building is progressing steadily. The framework of each classroom has now been completed, and the boundaries of each area are clearly delineated. It is inspiring to witness these daily improvements as the space transforms into a vibrant learning environment.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support and we are looking forward to more activities in March.
Campus Update
Our new sports fields have been a success with the children, and our PE lessons have kicked off with tag-rugby this half-term, with basketball and volleyball scheduled for the next. It has been inspiring to witness the enthusiasm and energy on the fields, and evening sports can now commence thanks to the new lighting.
The foundations for the padel courts have been set, and plans are progressing well for their completion in April, alongside the development of the outdoor learning area. We are excited to see these spaces come to life, further enhancing the sporting and outdoor learning experiences for our students.
Additionally, our lockers have arrived, and each student will receive a bangle equipped with a chip, allowing them to securely unlock and access their lockers with ease.
On our secondary campus, construction is progressing, with the framework of each classroom now complete, and the demarcation of the various areas of the school clearly visible, including our amphitheatre. We look forward to seeing this space transform into a vibrant learning environment for our secondary students.
After-School Programmes
Unlocking New Possibilities: Lumio’s After-School Programme
At Lumio Private School, learning doesn’t stop when the final bell rings — it evolves, expands, and inspires beyond the classroom! Our After-School Programme (ASP) offers students a dynamic space to explore, create, and grow, providing them with opportunities to enhance their educational journey while developing new skills and passions.
From academic support to creative arts, STEM, sports, and personal development, our ASP is designed to embrace each student’s individual path, encouraging them to learn at their own pace and in the direction that excites them most. Whether they’re looking to learn new robotics skills, unleash their creativity through music and drama, or build confidence on the sports field, our diverse range of activities ensures that every child finds something to ignite their passion.
Why Join Lumio’s After-School Programme?
- Diverse Selection – A variety of disciplines, from coding and robotics to sports, music, and drama
- Personal Growth – Activities designed to nurture confidence, teamwork, and leadership
- Holistic Learning – Encouraging students to discover and shape their unique interests
- Safe & Supervised – Ensuring that all students are engaged in structured, productive activities
Don’t Miss Out – Enrol Now!
If you haven’t yet signed up your child(ren) for any ASP activities, there’s still time! Visit your Clipboard account to browse available activities and secure a spot: Enrol here.
Important Reminder:
For the safety of all students, any child remaining on campus must be enrolled in an after-school activity. Unaccompanied students are not permitted to stay on school grounds. We provide both FREE and paid for activities for your convenience.
For more details on our exciting ASP offerings, visit Term 3 After-School Programme offering.
Join us in making learning an adventure — where passion meets purpose!
Half-Term Updates
Lumio Robotics Team Gears Up for the FIRST Tech Challenge Cyprus National Championship
Our talented students are preparing to compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge Cyprus National Championship, the largest robotics competition in the world. The team is registered under the unique number 22222, and has the name “Lumio Robobobers”, chosen by the students. Competing alongside 26 other teams, — the Lumio Robobobers — are ready to put their engineering and programming skills to the test.
The upcoming Cyprus National Championship, where they are competing against 26 other teams from Cyprus and other countries. Our Lumio Robobobers are ready to showcase their engineering and programming skills in this exciting robotics challenge.
Date: 8 – 9 March
The Robobobers will compete on 9 March at around 10:30
Venue: Ayios Dometios Sports Center: B18 156 Street Ayios Dometios, 01 Cyprus
The team — Zixuan (Grade 7), Shengwen (Grade 7), Emin (Grade 7), Alisa (Grade 8), Savva (Grade 8), and Kira (Grade 9) have been hard at work designing, building, and coding their robot, as well as preparing an Engineering Portfolio to document their work.
The FIRST Tech Challenge is the world’s largest robotics competition, with over 6,000 teams from 60+ countries participating annually. The competition challenges students to design, build, and programme autonomous and driver-controlled robots to complete a series of complex tasks on the playing field. The most successful teams advance to the global championship in Houston, TX.
Beyond the competition, our students have also shared their knowledge with other schools. They have visited Agia Paraskevi Gymnasium, Geroskipou and Apostolos Pavlos Gymnasium, Pafos to present their work and inspire other students to explore STEM and robotics. Additionally, on 20 February, the team practiced at the Akaki Gymnasium in Nicosia, where they tested their robot on the competition playing field and met fellow teams.
To bring their vision to life, the team designed their own T-shirts with support from the media team.
Through this competition, our students are not only developing technical skills in maths, physics, engineering, CAD, and programming, but also honing soft skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, communication, time management, and entrepreneurship.
We are incredibly proud of their hard work and commitment. Parents and guests are invited to join them at the competition on 8 and 9 March.
Stay tuned for more updates as they progress through the competition!
Pancyprian Mathematics Competition
The County Mathematics Competitions 2024-25, run by the Cyprus Mathematical Society Board, recognised students for their exceptional mathematical achievements. We were delighted to congratulate Kira (Year 9) for securing first place, Konstantin (Year 7) for placing second, and Emin (Year 7), Georgii (Year 6), Giorgio (Year 6), Timofei (Year 6) and Anna (Year 6) for receiving praise awards for their outstanding performances.
Kira (Year 9) from Lumio Private School, who received a Certificate of Achievement also earned the right to participate in the A’ Selection Competition for Prestigious International Mathematics Competitions. Congratulations to her on this well-deserved recognition.
The Kangourou Mathematics Competition
Some of our students have entered the Kangourou Mathematics Competition, an internationally recognised contest designed to challenge and inspire young mathematicians. The competition will be held on Saturday, 22 March 2025, at the American University of Beirut – Mediterraneo in Paphos.
Lumio Maths Advisors
At Lumio, we take immense pride in our commitment to mathematical excellence. At the helm of our Maths Department is Head of Maths, Josh Steer, who leads a team of dedicated educators with a passion for inspiring young minds. Among our team are Lev Breslav and Anna Dronzik, both of whom bring a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to the classroom.
Our highly qualified and experienced Mathematics team are dedicated to fostering a love for problem-solving, logical reasoning, and real-world applications of maths.
Here’s a look at our talented educators:
Josh Steer – Head of Mathematics
- Education: BA in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (University of Hull, UK); PGCE (Nova Trust, Nottingham); NPQLT & NPQSL (Better Learn – in progress).
- Experience: 7 years in education, previously Head of Department at Gulf British Academy, Kuwait, with experience teaching in UK schools.
Lev Breslav – Mathematics Teacher
- Education: Degree in Mathematical Analysis (Saint Petersburg State University); Pedagogy and Psychology training; Gestalt Therapy qualifications.
- Experience: Former Mathematics Lecturer at Saint Petersburg State University of Information Technologies and teacher at Lyceum No. 239, Saint Petersburg, a school renowned for excellence in maths and physics.
Anna Dronzik – Director of Mathematics ASP
- Education: MSc in Education Administration (HSE University, Moscow); Diplomas in Mathematics and Pedagogics (Lomonosov Moscow State University).
- Experience: Extensive experience in maths education, IT, and special needs teaching, having taught at MSU Correspondence School, worked on international education projects, and developed online educational materials.
Our maths team brings a diverse range of expertise, ensuring students receive a well-rounded and engaging mathematical education that links learning to STEM, critical thinking, and global perspectives.
A Day of Food, Laughter, and Community
As we embrace the festive season, we were delighted to come together to celebrate Tsiknopempti, also known as Smoky Thursday, marking the beginning of the Lent period beginning on Green Monday. This cherished Greek and Cypriot tradition united us as we enjoyed food, laughter, and a strong sense of community. The air was filled with the delicious aroma of barbecued delights and the warmth of shared moments.
We also marked Pancake Week (Maslenitsa), an Orthodox Russian Christian holiday from 24 February to 2 March, alongside Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day)—a Christian tradition observed before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent.
The day featured a variety of engaging events, from egg races and tug-of-war games to kite flying, giving both parents and children the opportunity to participate and celebrate together.
Thank you to everyone who participated, contributed, and helped make this celebration a memorable event. We looked forward to many more moments of togetherness, culture, and joy in the future.
All houses are neck and neck in points — it’s anyone’s game!
Parent Association Group
Sivan, Maria and I are delighted to have been nominated by our Parent Association Group colleagues to lead the PAG this year. Our first task as chair, vice-chair and treasurer was to plan our inaugural Cyprus Carnival for Green Monday.
With the support of our parents, and the marketing and facilities teams, we created a magnificent float representing our four house elements – Air, Fire, Water and Earth. Students, parents and staff from our community attended the carnival, with everyone donning costumes designed in their house colours where they danced through the streets in celebration. The Carnival marks the final celebration of indulgence before Green/Clean/Ash Monday, signalling the end of Carnival and the commencement of Lent. It was a marvellous first event for our PAG team, with many more to come!
At Smoky Thursday, the team hosted a bake sale that raised 800 euros, which was used to fund the float. Well done to everyone who contributed – your efforts have truly paid off, and the additional funds have enabled us to create a wonderful event for the school to enjoy.
In addition, the newly appointed team held its first meeting with Mr. Colin, Ms. Olga and Ms. Denise, during which we discussed plans for weekly meetings and various agenda items for the forthcoming full PAG meeting.
We look forward to continued support from the school and to making a positive difference on all fronts.
Kind regards,
Ms. Marcella
Marcella – Chairperson
Sivan – Vice-chair
Maria – Treasurer
Eco-Advocates
Taking a Step Towards a Greener Future
We are delighted to announce our new initiative dedicated solely to environmental and sustainability issues. Our team, selected by our Eco-Advocate staff members, was required to submit a short motivational letter outlining why they were a good fit, what they know about the topic, and how they could contribute with their green skills. Congratulations to all students who were elected to join the team.
They will be holding regular meetings to propose and implement projects aimed at enhancing our school’s eco-friendly practices, with the ultimate goal of achieving recognition for our environmental efforts and earning Eco-School certification.
Upcoming projects include organising Clean-Up Days, a Paper Recycling Week, and boosting our overall recycling efforts. Together, let’s work towards a more sustainable future for our school and community.
The Eco Team includes:
Grade 1 Eva, Grade 2 Diana, Grade 3 Marianna, Grade 4 Lev,
Grade 5 Penelope, Grade 6 Jacob, Grade 7 Kostya & Bob, Grade 8 Savva, Grade 9 Fedor
Lumio staff: Albina, Donna, Aurelija, Lucy, Anastasia (Soldatova)
Parent Essentials
Building a Culture of Care and Positivity
- The Importance of Age-Appropriate Media
- Acts of Kindness & Child Wellbeing Week
- Communication
- How to: Lumio Website
Following Internet Safety Day, this is a great opportunity to gently remind our community about the importance of checking age ratings and considering the impact of media on children’s well-being. Simple actions can make a big difference in helping children process media content in a healthy way:
- Check age ratings before allowing children to watch or play
- Set parental controls on devices and streaming services
- Discuss media content with children to help them understand what they see
- Encourage age-appropriate alternatives that are engaging and suitable for their development
By staying informed and involved in children’s digital experiences, we can help ensure they grow up in a safe and supportive environment. You can find further relevant information here: National Online Safety – Parent Guides
At the heart of a thriving school community is the simple yet powerful concept of Acts of Kindness. Small, thoughtful gestures—such as helping a friend, including someone in a game, or showing appreciation—can create a ripple effect of positivity.
To further promote emotional and social well-being, we celebrated Child Wellbeing Week, which focused on the physical, emotional, and mental health of children. This week was dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of self-care, resilience, and positive connections, helping students to understand how to express their feelings, cope with challenges, and support one another.
Throughout the week, students took part in kindness challenges, reflective activities, and discussions about well-being. Teachers recognised random acts of kindness, and students were encouraged to practise gratitude and mindfulness.
By embedding kindness and well-being into our daily lives, we can nurture a school culture where children feel safe, happy, and supported—ready to learn, grow, and inspire others.
We are committed to providing parents with accessible and efficient communication channels. Please note that during school hours, teachers are fully engaged in teaching and are not available to take phone calls or messages. However, our Reception team is happy to assist by forwarding any messages to the relevant staff member, who will respond as soon as they are available. Parents are welcome to speak to their child’s advisor when they collect them at the end of the day.
Contact Information:
Telephone: +357 26 44 3003
Email: info@lumio.school
How we communicate with you:
- Toddle – Student timetables, advisor feedback, reports, absences and school announcements.
- Clipboard – After-School Programme bookings, canteen orders, and trips.
- OpenApply – All admissions forms – Applications, re-enrolment, Consent forms including Parent Connection, School Trips, and Photo and Video Agreements, amongst other forms.
- School News – Newsletters, social media and the website.
Links can now be accessed via our website, either under our community section: https://lumio.school/community/ or by selecting the man icon on the top right hand corner of the screen.
Communicating with Lumio Staff
We value open and effective communication between parents and staff at Lumio Private School. If you need to get in touch with an Advisor or staff member, there are several ways to do so:
- Communicating with Advisors – Parents are welcome to speak with their child’s advisor at the end of the day during pick-up or via Toddle.
- Leave a Message – You can leave a message at Reception, and the relevant staff member will get back to you.
- Addressing Concerns – If you have any concerns, you can schedule a meeting with a senior member of staff via Reception.
PAG members can liaise directly with Olga Burmistrova, our Parent Engagement Representative for any other matters.
We encourage all parents to stay engaged and connected with us to support their child’s learning journey.
Shout Outs
We are pleased to let you know that Mr. Dorian is doing well and slowly gaining his strength. He has been hard at work helping to draft our Independent Learning Framework, alongside Mr. Terry and Mr. Colin. Details of the framework will be provided to parents and students once the staff have collaborated on the document. Ms. Lucy and the children are looking forward to resting and relaxing with him this holiday.
Congratulations to Ms. Albina Marchenko for receiving an Honorary Mention for the Best Master’s Thesis in Developmental Studies Award in Finland! This recognition follows the publication of her Master’s thesis last year, completed as part of her MA programme.
Well done on this well-deserved honour!
Ms. Irene Konikkou has been appointed Greek Curriculum Lead and Ms. Daniella Georgiou, ASP Greek Lead, congratulations on your new roles.
Welcome to our new Maths Teacher: Mr. Lev Breslav.
You can catch up with all our teaching staff on our website:
If you have any achievements to share with us please email: marketing@lumio.school
