What is 'CAS' - Creativity, Activity, Service?

‘Creativity, Activity, Service’, otherwise known as CAS, forms a fundamental part of the Diploma requirements and experience. Its focus is the development of the whole person and its goal the fostering of more compassionate and active world citizens. CAS requires students to undertake some Service (voluntary) work, to develop their Creativity, and to participate in physical Activities which contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Students are asked to provide evidence of participation, and to reflect on their skill and personal development over the two year programme

CAS activities are expected to span at least eighteen months of the Diploma Programme. Students are required to meet seven Learning Outcomes which include ‘New Skills’, ‘Collaboration’, ‘Global Perspective’ and ‘New Challenges’. Students are expected to be self-directed in their choosing of, and participation in CAS experiences. These can be short or long-term in duration, and should encompass a wide range of activities. CAS asks students to learn from experience, to be initiators, to manage their time effectively, and to become reflective, self-aware young adults.

Creativity: broadly this includes a range of arts activities, and the idea is to develop the creative side of a student. At CIS there is ample opportunity for this in such activities as Model United Nations, the Year Book; Theatre and Music opportunities and much else.

Activity: this involves physical activity and can include not only participation in individual and team sports but also taking part in expeditions and in local or international projects. Here at CIS there are plenty of opportunities to take part in sport, particularly with our regular involvement in NECIS, but there are also a growing number of other opportunities, including trips to work with disadvantaged children in Peru. Yoga, Pilates and other active ways of maintaining a healthy lifestyle also count as Activity.

Service: this encompasses a wide range of activities with the focus being on helping others with real need in the community. For example, LAP (the Learning Assistance Programme) is important here at CIS as one of many opportunities to help younger students with their academic work. Charity Club gives students the chance to raise money for projects worldwide. Service activities also include Team Peru, Roots and Shoots, the Racial and Social Justice Union and the Gay and Straight Alliance.