What makes the difference between successful schools and those that have great curricula and highly qualified teachers but never seem to get top results? Ultimately, most of it comes down to how engaged the children feel. The best schools have certain techniques in common that they use to make that connection and create an environment where learning feels like an instant reward.
Make room for everyone
One thing successful schools have in common is that they make room for everyone. That means ensuring that all the children are treated fairly and that diversity is celebrated.
Not only do the children feel valued, but each of them is able to contribute something different to the group. Local international schools in Singapore work hard to ensure that children from different countries can share their perspectives and insights with confidence, enhancing everyone’s learning experience.
Engage with learners
In order to take an interest in learning, children need to know their individual achievements are valued. Good schools work hard to build relationships with them, making sure that all the key members of staff know their names and are familiar with any particular challenges they might have.
Children who fall behind should receive extra help, and children who are so far ahead that they risk getting bored should have special projects and activities of their own to engage with.
Develop shared resources
Part of the process of enabling children to take some control over the speed at which they learn, and helping them to pursue subjects that interest them, is the development of shared resources. That could be anything from a wall where themed poetry and art are posted, to a library where children help to choose the books.
Many schools are now developing online resources in partnership with their learners, such as videos they can watch at home to better understand complex subjects.
Set clear expectations
Even when children are very young, it’s important for them to know when their efforts to learn are enabling them to make the progress expected of them. That begins with telling them clearly when they’ve got things right – and when they’ve got things wrong.
Clearly defined goals – and behavioral rules – make them more confident that they know what their learning is for, and mean it’s easier for them to tell when they need to ask for extra guidance.
Stamp out bullying
Nobody can work as effectively when under stress, but it’s a sad fact that many schools don’t take bullying seriously enough. It’s often victims who are expected to make changes, while bullies don’t learn the error of their ways.
The best schools deal with bullying promptly and firmly whenever it occurs, making sure that every child feels safe. That helps to create a positive environment where children support each other.
A healthy school culture lets children feel relaxed and secure, and makes it much easier for them to focus on their work. They feel motivated to work because they know that their teachers and peers care about their success, and they are able to make the most of their abilities.
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