The Junction

Inclusion

Please click the link below for Term 2 Inclusion Insights.

https://sites.google.com/jebelalischool.org/term-2-2023/home 

Leading Literacy

Article of Interest

Teaching & Learning in the world we live in today

As the world continues to rapidly evolve, so too do our educational systems. 

In March 2020, our approach to Teaching and Learning had to evolve overnight due to the Pandemic as Teaching went online and teachers around the world had to adapt their teaching and curriculum. Students also had to adapt and evolve immediately to not only being taught online but also how to learn and be responsive in their learning. Parents also had to evolve and understand how Google Classroom works, and how to check deadlines and progress to name a few.

The 21st century presents unique challenges for parents and educators alike, but it also offers unprecedented opportunities for our children's education. In this article, I will explore some of the key changes in teaching and learning in the 21st century and how parents can best support their children's educational journey.

1. Technology in the Classroom

One of the most significant changes in education in the 21st century is the integration of technology in the classroom. From interactive whiteboards and online learning platforms to virtual reality and augmented reality, technology is transforming the way we teach and learn. Children today are digital natives, my two-year-old can use an iPad more effectively and efficiently than I can. They expect their learning to be engaging, interactive, and accessible from anywhere at any time.

As a parent, it's important to embrace technology in education and support your child's use of technology in the classroom and at home. However, it's also essential to set healthy boundaries and ensure that screen time doesn't become excessive. Encourage your child to use technology to enhance their learning and to explore new subjects, but also make time for offline activities and family time.

2. Personalised Learning

Another significant shift in education in the 21st century is the move towards personalised learning. No two children learn in exactly the same way or at the same pace, and personalised learning recognises this. It allows students to learn at their own pace and in a way that suits their individual needs and interests.

As a parent, you can support personalised learning by working closely with your child's teachers to understand their learning styles and preferences. Encourage your child to take ownership of their learning and to explore topics that interest them. You can also provide additional resources and support at home to help your child achieve their learning goals from the advice and support given by their teachers.

3. Project-Based Learning

Project-based learning is another approach that is gaining popularity in the 21st-century classroom. Instead of focusing solely on textbooks and lectures, project-based learning encourages students to explore real-world problems and challenges through hands-on projects and activities. A lot of educational research focuses on more ‘Mode B teaching’ (student-led) and less ‘Mode A teaching’ (teacher-led).

As a parent, you can support project-based learning by encouraging your child to ask questions and explore their own interests. You can also provide them with opportunities to engage in hands-on projects and experiments at home. This can help your child develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and a passion for learning.

4. Collaboration and Communication

In the 21st century, collaboration and communication skills are more important than ever. With the rise of remote work and global collaboration, it's essential that our children learn how to work effectively in teams and communicate their ideas clearly and persuasively.

As a parent, you can support collaboration and communication skills by encouraging your child to work on group projects and participate in extracurricular activities. You can also provide them with opportunities to practice communication skills at home, such as by discussing current events or debating issues that interest them.

In conclusion, teaching and learning in the 21st century are evolving rapidly, and parents play a critical role in supporting their children's educational journey. By embracing technology, supporting personalised learning, encouraging project-based learning, and fostering collaboration and communication skills, parents can help their children succeed in the rapidly changing world of education and beyond.

Mrs. J Sims

Assistant Headteacher for Teaching and Learning

Student Focus/Highlight

Student Leadership at Jebel Ali School

The application process for Student Leadership at Jebel Ali School is intensive, thought-provoking, and challenging for our Sixth Form students. This year the students had two writing tasks: a letter of application, and a “manifesto” presented to students and staff, which reflected the students’ aims and ideals of the role of a student leader.

Students who were successful at this stage went on to the next daunting task: presenting their ideas about Student Leadership to a panel and outlining the changes they would like to achieve. The final stage was an interview with Ms. Davies (Sixth Form) and Mr. Green (Head of Secondary.)

Every single applicant demonstrated great resilience throughout the process. They were undaunted in their creativity and learned a great deal about the importance of teamwork, communication, and working with others. Most notable was the fact that every single student, at each stage of the process, wanted to contribute something to the Jebel Ali community and focussed on the benefits of supporting younger students.

We are delighted to announce the new Student Leadership team:

Head Students: Lauren Skinner and Ben Massigham

Deputy Head Students: Mura Arora and Lewis Coombes

Huge thanks also go to our outgoing leadership team, who have been trailblazers in setting the expectations for our new team. Thank you Malak Shabaro and Dillen Stadden for your outstanding work as Head Students, and to Molly Murphy and Leen AlJayyusi for exceptional work as Deputy Head Students.