Classes collaboratively planned and worked together, using a country as the catalyst for learning. The choice of country was linked to students in each classroom. Teachers conducted a pre-assessment of every child to demonstrate learning progress at the end of the concept.Teachers were asked to:
- Integrate and plan for the use of digital technology
- Organise a high-end, engagement-focused celebration of learning where all students could teach and showcase their acquired knowledge
- Send invitations to all parents
- Display clear "wonderings" on the walls of every classroom
The community event was a great success. Students pre-tested their food choices before selecting options to serve. They listed ingredients and required quantities. Some students were overheard articulating how to make South African donuts to parents, humorously noting that, given the parents' South African origin, they might have been overly detailed in their explanations.
Parents participated actively, joining in the stick dance on stage. They observed Tai Chi and yoga displays, as well as international dances - all skills learned during the six-week timeframe.
Writing names in different languages proved interesting. Students discovered that while their name remains the same regardless of the language spoken, it can be written using different alphabets. Teachers noted that students were writing their names twice at the top of the page: once in English and again in Hindi.
Students offered coffee in various languages, demonstrating their linguistic skills and cultural awareness.
Overall, it was a stunning afternoon that effectively showcased the learning that had occurred.
The long snaking line of students at the skipping rope. Jump in, jump out and off they go, happy and excited. Some still have to "Learn It". Others have reached the "Prove it" stage. Many will remain, comforted to be in a safe inclusive group.
Since 2010, I have been the passionate Principal of this vibrant, successful, and innovative school. It's without hesitation, I say I'm focused on "accelerating growth for student learning outcomes".
My style is fostering a culture of professionalism formed on a solid foundation of critical reflection. My own professionalism is expanded through a network of advanced educational practitioners. Practitioners who extend my theoretical, philosophical and pedagogical base. Fundamental in my belief, is strategic dialogue will map learning and teaching so innovation and creativity can flow into an innovative curriculum.
From considerable leadership experience, I know the school's vision has to be "crafted collaboratively". The adaptive vision must be student driven with ambitious academic goals. Raising success hinges on repeatedly asking: "does this decision help realise the vision?"
Comments
No one has commented on this post yet.