The Early Childhood Development Unit (ECDU) in St. Kitts is leading a five-week training workshop designed to equip new teachers at public and private preschools with essential skills to enhance early education. The comprehensive programme, which began in late October, includes weekly sessions with hands-on and practical learning strategies to prepare participants for the dynamic demands of the classroom.
ECDU Director Kimona Browne explained that each week’s focus is aimed at enhancing specific areas in teaching.
The second week emphasised “Active Learning: Making Learning Fun,” a vital component of the HighScope Curriculum. This approach encourages young students to engage with the world around them actively, using all their senses to foster a deeper understanding and connection with their environment.
Resource teacher, Travia Tyson, stressed the importance of active learning, stating, “Active Learning helps children to discover and explore the world around them with their whole beings – their hands, their eyes, their feet, all their senses. We hope that after today’s session, new teachers will bring this knowledge to the classroom to enrich students’ experiences and growth.”
Tyson noted that these techniques not only improve student engagement but also contribute to holistic development.
Teachers participating in the programme have shared positive feedback, noting how the training addresses both instructional and emotional support needs. Jalexia Matthew highlighted the session’s relevance in her classroom at Salvation Army Preschool, where she encounters language barriers with Spanish-speaking students.
“This training gives me the knowledge to provide the emotional and academic support they need. I’m learning to navigate the language barrier more effectively,” she said.
Another participant, Sherika Benjamin, expressed enthusiasm for the hands-on learning approaches introduced in the workshop.
“I’ve gained insights on how to use varied methods and strategies, especially in creating interactive and appropriate lesson plans for young children,” she remarked. “Understanding child development and the five active ingredients for active learning has been invaluable.”
The ECDU’s workshop not only fosters professional growth for educators but also underscores its commitment to shaping the nation’s youngest learners through an enriched educational experience. As these teachers gain further skills in upcoming sessions, they will be better equipped to deliver high-quality education that nurtures every aspect of their students’ development.
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