With one of my children enrolling at IFS last term, I thought it would be an opportune time to reflect on his new experiences. I have chosen to address three areas which I have noticed have had the biggest impact over a short period of time.
Project based learning – My son has certainly been propelled to think deeply about the subject matter learnt in the classroom. He takes ownership of his learning and is driven to continue his projects at home, such as the way he has explored area through designing his own zoo, fractions through board games and more recently shapes and angles via origami. I believe that education should foster a life-long love of learning. Our dinner conversations address the projects he tackles in class. With so many career changes in my own life, I feel this self-directed learning is a good fit. It allows for collaboration, flexibility and INQUIRY.
Nutrition – Within the space of one term, my son has come to make better choices as to what he packs in the lunch box for recess. No more Burger Rings or choc-chip cookies. He actually reads the labels. Whereas recess comes from home, lunch is supplied. Whilst every effort was made to jazz up our chicken and salad sandwiches, nothing can compete with san choy bau, roast chicken, rump steak and pumpkin soup for lunch followed by fresh fruit and Greek yoghurt for dessert. As parents we have come to notice that this reduction in sugar has improved his general health and well-being.
Organisational skills – Not once have I had to remind my son what to pack. In days gone by, he never did quite master that once a week library day bag ritual.
My thanks goes out to the coaches and teachers that made the transition for my son so successful. At the end of the day, it is his wellbeing that counts the most and we are so grateful he has embraced this opportunity.
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