The Academic Calendar at Gonzaga Preparatory and Primary School is carefully structured to align with the Tanzanian National Education framework while incorporating the unique elements of Jesuit education. It emphasizes a balanced approach to learning, spiritual growth, and extracurricular engagement, ensuring that students have a comprehensive educational experience.

1. Term Structure

The academic year is divided into three main terms:

• Term 1 – January to March: This term marks the beginning of the academic year and focuses on orientation for new students, foundational lessons for all grades, and initial assessments to gauge student progress.
• Term 2 – April to July: The second term is dedicated to deepening subject understanding through rigorous coursework, mid-year assessments, and academic projects.
• Term 3 – September to November: The final term focuses on completing the syllabus, preparing for end-of-year examinations, and engaging in celebratory and reflective activities such as St. Aloysius Gonzaga Day.

2. Daily and weekly schedules

• Regular Class Days: Classes run from Monday to Friday, with dedicated hours for academic instruction, extracurricular activities, and spiritual formation. The school day typically begins with morning assembly, which includes prayers and important announcements, followed by scheduled classes.
• Weekend Activities: Saturdays are occasionally used for extracurricular programs, including sports, community service, and additional academic support sessions. Sundays are reserved for spiritual activities and family time.

3. Key Academic Events

• Orientation Week – Held at the start of Term 1, this week introduces new students and parents to Gonzaga’s academic expectations, Jesuit values, and the school community.
• Mid-Term Breaks – Short breaks are scheduled in the middle of each term to allow students and staff to rest and reflect.
• End-of-Term Evaluations – Each term concludes with examinations or project presentations to assess student progress and provide feedback for improvement.

4. Jesuit Educational Activities

• Spiritual Retreats – Annual retreats are scheduled for students and staff, providing time for reflection, prayer, and spiritual growth.
• Community Service Days – Twice a year, students participate in outreach programs, visiting orphanages, elderly homes, and other communities in need, putting into practice the Jesuit commitment to service and justice.
• St. Aloysius Gonzaga Day – Celebrated annually, this event includes reflections, prayers, and activities honoring the school’s patron saint. It is a highlight of the academic calendar, fostering a sense of community and spiritual identity.

5. Extracurricular Integration

The calendar integrates academic activities with extracurricular events to promote a holistic educational experience:

• Sports Events – Inter-school competitions and sports days are strategically placed throughout the year to encourage physical well-being and teamwork.
• Cultural and Talent Shows – Events showcasing student talents, such as debates, music performances, and art exhibitions, are planned during the second and third terms.
• School Bonanza and Family Day – These annual events bring together students, parents, and staff to celebrate the school community through games, exhibitions, and performances.

6. Special Programs

• Profuturo Digital Education Program – Integrated into the calendar are workshops and training sessions under the Profuturo Project, enhancing digital literacy for both students and teachers.
• Teacher Exchange Programs – Visits and collaborations with partner schools, such as St. Lawrence of England, are scheduled to foster professional development and global perspectives.

7. National and International Observances

The school incorporates national holidays and significant international observances into its calendar, ensuring students remain connected to broader social and cultural contexts:

• Tanzanian National Days – Public holidays, such as Independence Day, are observed with activities that emphasize civic responsibility and patriotism.
• International Days – Days like Earth Day and World Literacy Day are celebrated with themed activities, aligning with the Jesuit commitment to sustainability and education.

8. End-of-Year Activities

• Thanksgiving Mass – The academic year concludes with a special mass to thank God for the year’s achievements and blessings.
• Graduation and Farewell Ceremonies – A celebratory event for Standard 7 graduates, marking their transition to secondary education.
• Staff Reflection Week – The year ends with a week dedicated to staff retreats and evaluations to plan for the next academic year.

By structuring its Teaching Staff & Faculty Profiles and Academic Calendar in this manner, Gonzaga Preparatory and Primary School ensures a well-rounded educational environment that fosters academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community engagement.