Buddhist Approach

“Rather than an education system which is geared to testing and to competition and to preparing people for a particular livelihood, the emphasis of Buddhist education is on teaching children how to learn, how to enjoy learning, to love wisdom for its own sake. It teaches them the emotional maturity enabling them to make use of their knowledge to create a happy life for themselves and their family and to contribute positively to the society in which they live. It in no way compromises on the work of preparing children to make a good livelihood, but it lets them see that life is deeper and richer than working in order to consume.”

        Phra Brahma Phacharayanamuni (Phra Ajahn Jayasaro),

Panyaden International School Spiritual Advisor  

The Buddhist approach is the backdrop to all learning experiences at Panyaden. We must make sure that all our educational decisions are in line with Buddhist principles. Research shows that the level of emotional maturity (referred to in educational terms as “emotional intelligence” or EQ) is a far better predictor of success than traditional report card grades. Mindfulness, impulse control, and thoughtful consideration of the impact of our thoughts, speech, and actions on ourselves, others, and our environment are at the cornerstone of our teaching. We achieve these through our mindfulness and meditation programme and the integration of the 12 Wise Habits into the daily life of the school. We aim to improve in all areas of the Bhavana 4, as outlined in the Panyaden Profile. 

To teach the Buddhist approach to our students, we must also experience and understand it, which is only possible through practice. In addition to trying one’s best to practise the principles daily, the staff is expected to attend regular Dhamma talks and Q&A sessions with our spiritual advisors, Phra Dharma Bajranyanamuni (Phra Ajahn Jayasaro) and Venerable Ajahn Jiew, and other invited monks and nuns.  

All staff are required to attend school-organised meditation courses and retreats, which last for five days. In Secondary School, there is a dedicated class for Buddhist Education for each year level within our weekly schedule. The Buddhist Education Coordinator oversees this programme and is also responsible for developing an effective curriculum for this important pillar of our school. In addition, there is also a regular and dedicated Buddhist Education focus in staff meetings.