This week I want to share with you a clip from Sir Ken Robinson and some of the learning that can be taken from this.

Sir Ken Robinson is a British author, speaker and international advisor on education in the arts to government, non-profits, education and arts bodies. His research and thinking has had a huge impact on our localised curriculum here at Te Uru Tarata, especially our focus on creativity.

As you will find out, this clip is about a women called Gillian Lyne who despite having a number of challenges at school when she was younger, went on to achieve great things in life.

Gillian Lyne Clip

There were a number of factors that got her from being labelled as a problem or failure to achieving great things.

1. Knowledge and understanding around her learning needs.

2. Identifying what her strengths and passions were and making sure her future learning was based around these.

When I look back on my own education, the teaching and learning often focused on what the teacher thought I needed to learn. There were few opportunities to develop my passions and interests at school and I often found learning boring as a result.  Bringing learning from home was discouraged and there were few opportunities to share the things I was most interested in. 

At LWG, one of the areas we focus on is developing strong learner centred relationships. This is everyone's responsibility. This involves having a very clear understanding of not only what our learners needs are, but also their passions and interests. Learning is often centred around these. We don't use the word 'no' very often when learners come to us with ideas and suggestions. We are always responsive and open to what they need.

What are we beginning to see as a result?  Learners who feel empowered about their learning and are engaged in what they do. Learners who are willing to try and explore the unlimited amount of possibilities that exist in terms of their education. A perfect example was the acting, singing and dancing skills that were demonstrated in our production this term.  The photo at the top of this article is another example. Jacob created this island as part of his My Link learning in Kopara. This was a collaborative project between home and school. He was really proud to share his learning last week with his tribe.  Let's keep building on our successes.

Can you please make sure you continue to follow our Communication Guidelines?  Please see your child's whānau teacher if you have any questions, issues or concerns sooner rather than later. Our staff are extremely responsive in terms of communicating with you. This is an awesome school and it's important that we work together in partnership to ensure our vision 'the best of you as you' is lived out each and every day.

Regards

Sean | Tumuaki

principal@lemonwoodgrove.school.nz