Educators Embrace Innovative Teaching Methods at St David's Marist Inanda

In a bid to further enhance the growth and development of their students, the dedicated teaching staff recently embarked on a day of intensive KAGAN training. This training day, described as both fun-filled and highly informative, aimed to equip educators with new strategies to engage their students effectively, all within just a minute or two. The result of this approach are that students are not only actively involved in their learning but also experience significant personal growth in terms of self-esteem, social skills, leadership skills, and communication skills.

The KAGAN training event marked a significant shift in classroom dynamics at the school. Teachers learned innovative techniques to create an environment that caters to the diverse needs of all learners, ensuring that no student is left behind. This approach to more inclusive and engaging teaching methods is set to have a positive impact on the educational journey of the students.

 Teaching staff continue to attend a variety of subject-specific cluster meetings, which offer opportunities for collaboration with educators from other schools and colleagues within the institution.

A standout event was the recent Visual Arts cluster meeting hosted by the Senior Primary. The meeting was deemed a resounding success, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and insights among educators passionate about the visual arts. This type of collaboration not only enriches the educational experience for students but also empowers teachers with new tools and perspectives.

Several members of the school's teaching staff had the privilege of attending the InnovateEDu conference. This conference showcased cutting-edge approaches to education through various workshops, each designed to inspire and equip educators to embrace innovative teaching methods. Some of the highlights included workshops on:

1. Visual Maths through Geometry and Scratchmatch: Exploring creative ways to teach mathematics using visual and interactive methods.
2. Using Sketchnotes for Creative Learning: Harnessing the power of sketchnotes to enhance creativity and understanding in the classroom.
3. Problem-Solving Design Learning Strategies: Equipping teachers with strategies to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students.
4. Inquiry-Based Learning Strategies: Promoting curiosity and independent learning through inquiry-based approaches.
5. Using Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom: Exploring the integration of AI technologies to enhance the learning experience.

The commitment of teaching staff to professional development and innovative teaching methods is a testament to their dedication to providing the best possible education for their students. With a focus on engagement, inclusivity, and cutting-edge practices, the school is poised to continue nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning that will last a lifetime.