This year saw the second annual Local Teacher Training programme at KICS. The programme tries to develop the methodology and subject-specific skills of local teachers. Staff from all three sections of KICS have been working hard after school each week to offer training in teaching methods, Mathematics, Science and English. Over a ten week course, it has been impressive to witness the dedication of so many professionals involved in the programme. Many of the local teachers travel long distances to get to the training sessions and teach large classes of children with few basic resources.

                                             

A key highlight mid-way through the programme was a workshop led by professional clown Jef Johnson, who not only entertained the teachers but also showed them an appealing variety of physical activities they could use to engage their students. The evening was a great success, and many of us left the Junior Hall with very wide grins!

In the final week both KICS staff and the teachers attending the programme reflected upon the course, reviewing strengths and areas for improvement for next year. In addition, certificates were handed out by KICS Principal Mr. Nigel Winnard in celebration of those teachers achieving a minimum of 80% attendance on the course.

       

The Teacher Training programme has also been the focus of several fundraising efforts: colourful tins in the Senior homerooms, canteen and Junior Office were used for collecting change to sponsor travel and encourage high attendance for the teachers. The tin donations raised 395 SDG. Mrs. Natasha’s Bring and Buy sale from last year raised 541 SDG, which we are using this year. In addition, Miss Maria’s aromatherapy massages raised 515 SDG to contribute to the funds, bringing the grand total to 1,506 SDG. A tremendous thanks also goes to the KICS Parents Association, who agreed to fund teacher training support books for each of the schools involved in the programme. The books will be ordered and hopefully ready for donation during next academic year.

Many thanks to all who have been involved, and those who continue to generously invest their time and energy in the Teacher Training Programme. A special thanks to Mrs. Nilanthi for her tireless work ‘behind the scenes’ regarding administration, to Mr. Yasir for terrific dedication to the programme and to Miss Safaa, who has been enthusiastically committed at every level. With continued support, we look forward to an even more successful programme next year.

Madeleine Cox