TH E C H R ONI C L E PR O G R A M S A N D IN N OVAT ION
SCIENTIA PROGRAM ALLOWS STUDENTS TO REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL
C
atering for the gifted and talented students in the Preparatory School, the program uses withdrawal groups to supplement the work being completed in the regular classroom. Nominated by their teachers, children are selected on their academic record, work skills, ability to work independently and as part of a group, and having an overall willingness to participate in the program. Scientia Co-ordinator, Mark Pritchard, says that “the workshop activities provide an opportunity for like-minded students to come together in a secure and supportive environment where they can develop their gifts and turn them into talents.” Mentored by Preparatory staff, students are able to work on long-term projects. In the past and again in 2016, KWS has been fortunate to have members of the Secondary Mathematics and Science faculties provide their expertise to mentor groups. Reinforcing the KWS strategic plan, Scientia develops motivated and engaged learners by ensuring that the learning is student centred. The students regularly choose an area to work on that they are passionate about. Mark says “Scientia provides experiences which require perseverance and long-term commitment. It creates a culture that encourages and supports personal achievement by having high expectations of work and end product. The program also builds creativity and collaboration across Key Learning Areas as the children use a multitude of skills to complete their work.” Rotating on a two year cycle, the courses offered are closely aligned with the Key Learning Areas. The exception is Mathematics which runs annually. In 2016 the Mathematics program will run for the majority of the year rather than just one term as in previous years.
18 — ISSUE 1
In even years, the programs offered are Night of the Notables, and Art. Night of the Notables allows the children to carry out in-depth research of an eminent person. On the presentation day they dress as that person and answer questions from the school community as if they were in character. In Art the students attend workshops aimed at developing their artistic skills. They work on a major piece which is displayed for the school community on KWS Prep Open Day. In odd years, Science and Creative Writing are offered. The students doing Science carry out a long-term scientific investigation and are mentored along the way to ensure proper scientific procedures are adhered to. Their research is then presented on a presentation afternoon. Creative Writing allows the children to select a style of writing they enjoy and then create a major piece of work. Again, they attend workshops and develop their writing skills while preparing their work. “The standard of work is always very high and demonstrates what children are capable of when given time and support to pursue work in an area of interest to them”, said Mark.
