SKILLS FOR LIFE
Throughout all our learning experiences, from our nursery class, right up to heading for secondary education, we are preparing our pupils for life. LIFE now, in school and at home; LIFE in the world of work; and LIFE in the future – whatever that may look like!
Sometimes this takes the form of explicit, focus lessons, such as our Financial Education focus this week. Our P.4 to P.7 pupils thoroughly enjoyed working with Jamie and Pauline from MACA over the past three days. Through investigating budgeting and questioning the value of money, they allowed pupils the opportunity to explore the cost of living. In addition to all the planned learning, I was also delighted with the feedback from our visitors. They could not have praised our pupils highly enough for their cooperation, focus and respect throughout the week; demonstrating the core values of Kirkshaws on a daily basis. In addition, our younger pupils were also exploring a wide range of coins; experimenting through play and investigation which coins can be used to make purchases and give change. I had a fabulous time visiting our infant classes this week. Our active learning in maths continues to have a positive impact on metal agility and problem solving ability.
However, at other times SKILLS FOR LIFE can be a little more hidden within our learning experiences. Social skills, such as listening, cooperation, patience, resilience and tolerance are practised day in/day out, in the classroom the playroom, the dinner hall and the playground. Carrying out a risk assessment in the nursery gives our pupils a greater responsibility for their own learning. Socialising with friends at the lunch table and playing by the rules in the playground will both foster skills invaluable as our young people grow. Our after-school and lunchtime clubs are an attempt to extend the range of topics we can offer, allowing personalisation and choice to our pupils and their families. There’s not a moment wasted – we work together to foster positive personal attributes, extend knowledge and develop a greater understanding of the world we live in.
Then, of course, we have those huge LIFE lessons we learn as we grow older. Our P.7 pupils are almost ready to leave us and move on to the next step in their learning journeys. This week they had the opportunity to reflect on their residential trip in Oban. Learning to live independently, face challenges head-on and develop resilience whilst away from home for a whole school-week are invaluable life experiences for our young people. Huge thanks must go to Kirkshaws staff, who regularly give up their own time to ensure our learners have rich experiences outwith the school day.
And what of LIFE in the future…how can we best prepare our young people for that? Thinking skills, problem solving strategies and a confidence using technology are crucial life-skills we teach through all curricular areas to best prepare our children for an ever-changing world of work.
Looking forward to another full week ahead…let’s continue to live life to the max!
