Education

Project-Based Learning Launched in Summer Programme

Project-based learning (PBL) was heralded as a success, on Thursday, August 08, 2024.

This, as the dozens of secondary school-bound students who took part in the Ministry of Education’s Summer School programme, were acknowledged as the first group in the island to use this learning approach to strengthen their thinking and problem-solving skills.

It also sought to broaden their knowledge base in preparation for secondary school in September 2024.

St. Mary’s Primary School hosted the proud graduates of the programme, along with their parents, guardians and Ministry officials.

In her official address, Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, revealed that this group was the first to benefit from the project-based learning approach, one of the proposed teaching and learning components under Education Transformation. PBL is a method of teaching which involves students working together to design and construct hands-on solutions to real-life problems.

Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, viewing the exhibits of students who took part in the Ministry of Education’s Summer School programme

Dr. Archer-Bradshaw said: “For this year’s PBL implementation, the problem identified was that students struggle with Reading and Mathematics because they are not exposed enough to using concrete materials during instruction and often their learning styles are not considered. The literature on teaching and learning in Mathematics and Reading is replete with research evidence that suggests that manipulatives help to develop students’ conceptual understanding and that ‘gamification’, or the use of games serves to motivate students, reinforce concepts and provide engagement and enjoyment.”

The overall theme for Summer School My Learning, My Future! This is Me!, and the goal was to have students create a Tool Kit, containing manipulatives and games, otherwise called ‘power tools’, which reflect their way of learning. This would assist the student in developing and retaining the Reading and Mathematics concepts taught within the few weeks spent in the programme.

The Chief Education Officer assured the audience that the Ministry would continue “to invest in the academic, social and emotional well-being of these students to ensure that each Barbadian student is assured a bright future, and that no child is left behind”.

The summer programme, which is offered annually by the Ministry of Education provides the opportunity for deferred Class 3 and 4 students from the Barbados Secondary Schools’ Entrance Examination (BSSEE) to be immersed in a Remedial Mathematics and Reading Intervention programme which seeks to:

Improve their performance, skills, and understanding in Reading and specific areas in Mathematics.
Develop enhanced study skills, self-confidence, and strategies for appropriate social interaction, through the necessary social support services provided.
Promote physical well-being, through Physical Education and hone artistic skills, through Music and Dance.

Dr. Archer-Bradshaw made a special appeal to students to apply what they learned over the summer and continue the learning process, while parents were assured that regular consultation would take place as our education system continues to transform to a more student-centred one.

The day’s proceedings concluded with a dynamic performance by students who presented “This Is Me”, from the film “The Greatest Showman”, under the musical direction of Israel J. Allen, who lauded the natural talents of the choir. There was also an exhibition of the collaborative work accomplished by the students.

While PBL is yet to be executed in its fullness, the Ministry is very encouraged by the early positive signs displayed through the Summer School programme. (PR/GIS)

Education

Three Schools Honoured For Championing Health Initiatives

Three schools have been recognised for their efforts in promoting healthy lifestyles through the implementation of the Barbados School Nutrition Policy (BSNP).

George Lamming Primary, St. Giles Primary, and The Rock Christian School were honoured by the BSNP Implementation Committee during a special ceremony on Wednesday at the George Lamming Primary School, in Welches, St. Michael.

The overall winner, George Lamming Primary, and the two other schools, each received $4,000 in vouchers to support their health-focused initiatives.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, commended the schools for their leadership, highlighting the significance of turning policy into action.

“This is one of those moments where we must reward, appreciate, and acknowledge progress…. We are moving in the right direction. It’s one thing for policymakers to develop ideas on paper, but it’s in moments like these that we see policy come alive and truly transform lives…. You’re proving that good health begins with each of us,” Mr. Ishmael said.

Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, also praised the students and school communities for their dedication.

“Winning isn’t just about trophies or prizes, it’s about the teamwork, the creativity, and the commitment you’ve shown in reshaping your school environment. Your participation sets an example that will inspire not just your classmates, but your families and communities to live healthier lives. This is just the beginning of your journey – keep making smart, healthy choices,” Dr. Archer-Bradshaw stated.

The event was also attended by PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Amalia Del Riego, other officials and stakeholders involved in the policy’s rollout, principals, teachers, and students.

The BSNP Committee applauded the schools for fostering healthier environments, underscoring the importance of early intervention in addressing the rise of non-communicable diseases. The initiative forms part of a national effort to promote wellness and improve long-term health outcomes for Barbadian youth. (PR/GIS)

Caption: Minister of State in Ministry of Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael; Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw; PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Amalia Del Reigo, as well as officials and stakeholders involved in the School Nutrition Policy, pose with students and principals of the George Lamming Primary; St. Giles Primary; and The Rock Christian School, at the ceremony

Education

Immigration Webinar For Students Wishing To Study In Canada

Barbadians interested in pursuing studies in Canada are invited to participate in the online Immigration Seminar of the Consulate General of Barbados, in Toronto.

The Consulate, as part of its annual activities to observe National Heroes Day, is hosting a week of activities, and the key event will be the Immigration Seminar tomorrow Thursday, April 24, at 6:00 p.m.

Over the past 12 months, there have been significant changes to the requirements and processes for obtaining an international student visa. As a result, the seminar will focus on the recent changes to the entry requirements for international students coming to Canada to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

Prospective students, as well as parents, guardians, guidance counsellors, school teachers and principals, who have a vested interest in obtaining the most up-to-date and accurate information to make the most informed choice from the available study options, are encouraged to participate in the online seminar.

Alana Alleyne, a barrister and solicitor, will cover areas such as the latest changes to international student visas, eligibility criteria for student visas, requirements for postgraduate work permits, and changes to eligibility for spousal work permits. (PR/GIS)

Education

Information Session For Teachers Keen On Working In USA

Primary school teachers interested in working in the United States of America (USA) are invited to an upcoming Information Session, tomorrow Thursday, April 24.

The session will be hosted in the Main Conference Room of the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Third Sector, Warrens Office Complex, Warrens, St. Michael, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

The initiative is being facilitated by the Ministry, in partnership with the Barbados Employment and Career Counselling Service, the Barbados Union of Teachers, and Participate Learning, a USA recruitment firm.

During the event, Participate Learning will share important information on the application and recruitment processes, as well as on working in the USA. (PR/GIS)