SCHOOL COUNCIL PRESIDENT

What do you think your kids will remember as the best part of their school days after they graduate? I’ll give you a clue–it’s not the math classes. The best school memories are associated with co-curricular activities: the musicals, the sports competitions, the chess club or the debating team.

This issue of Inspirations magazine focuses on the many co-curricular opportunities offered at The King David School.

Apart from making great memories, the School recognises that a holistic education which includes both academic achievements and co-curricular involvement is fundamental in educating the “whole child” and preparing them for life after school.

In the Junior School, these opportunities include instrumental music lessons, choral and music ensembles, lunchtime clubs and before and after school sport. For Middle and Senior School students, the co-curricular offering is diverse and caters to students with a range of interests including Music and Performing Arts, Visual Art, Sport and STEM. Our Kinor David program has been carefully curated to provide students with an opportunity to become intentional, wellrounded individuals. This initiative recognises, above all, student contribution and achievement.

In my own business, when interviewing graduates entering the workforce, I have seen firsthand how those who have participated in school life beyond the classroom clearly present with a well-rounded skillset – a much more valuable asset for any organisation than simply ‘good grades’.

Students who have embraced a holistic education at school have greater likelihood of having developed skills in multiple areas, such as communication, leadership, teamwork, time-management, problem-solving, and critical thinking. These young adults can apply their skills to different roles and contribute to various functions of a company. They possess a broader perspective and are more likely to come up with creative solutions to problems.

Co-curricular involvement teaches individuals to be adaptable and handle diverse situations. They are better equipped to face challenges, work under pressure, and are more open to learning new skills. Often, individuals who participated in co-curricular activities at school, have experience working in teams, which hones their ability to collaborate, communicate and support each other.

We don’t want to raise ‘cookie cutter’ versions of kids – we want to provide an environment in which all of those skills can be learnt safely and with guidance.

I am therefore encouraging each and every student to embrace whatever learning opportunities are offered outside the classroom, whether at school or within the community. Get involved, learn new skills, contribute in whatever way you can. The diverse skillset you acquire, including creativity, adaptability and teamwork, will prepare you in the best possible way, for life after school.