It has been said that schools are not an education, but a means of education. Having said this, education requires a time investment in people and this can surely only happen through relationships. It is these relationships that develop the sphere of influence an educator has with his or her students. The role is always more important than the position.
From personal experience, and listening to many speakers at Headmaster’s conferences the thought is that creative genius, intellectual capital, critical thinking, and independent thinking are what is required to drive economies.
What does this level of creativity entail? Our students have to be driven and guided by passionate teachers toward experimentation, new ideas, and innovativeness. This leads to artistry with a genius for finding a new answer, a new connection, and a new way of getting things done.
Here is a list of characteristics that we would see developed in our learners as they engage in this journey of discovery and self-discovery.
- A strong attitudinal mindset
- Entrepreneurial thinking
- Independent and self-directed learning
- Thinkers
- They are all Readers
- Academic rigour based on a strong work ethic
- General knowledge
- Personal initiative
- Confidence
We have to ask ourselves what it is going to be like to be a Man or Woman in the middle and latter part of the 21 st century. Then are we shaping the skills they need to cope with what that time will demand of them? “Adaptive Intelligence”
Therefore, as a family, we should create a RIOT in education:
- Respect
- Opportunity
- Intentionality
- Trust
All of this so that our young leaders can discover themselves. This is by creating a culture in which things happen. Can we take a leaf out of Nike’s book JUST DO IT!
Be present in the moment and participate for maximum exposure and practice of new ideas.
Thrive mightily!
Yours in Education
Mr Calla Niemand
College Headmaster
