As the school examination season approaches, the spotlight sharpens on the core subjects that pave the way to academic triumph – English, mathematics, and science. Far beyond mere boxes to tick on a syllabus, these subjects serve as vital keys to unlocking the doors to future opportunities.
Yet, sparking a passion for these foundational pillars in the minds of young learners often require more than conventional lessons. To tackle this, schools are stepping beyond the textbook, embracing innovative and engaging programmes that ignite curiosity and foster a deeper connection to learning.
FLEXING MINDS AND MUSCLES
A recent initiative at Belait Arabic School (SAB) highlighted how an inventive blend of academic strength and physical agility can create a holistic learning environment, engaging both mind and body.
Aptly titled ‘Let’s Get Fit with EMS’- with EMS representing English, mathematics, and science – the programme stands as a shining example of the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded students.
By enhancing communication, critical thinking, and creativity through English, sharpening problem-solving and logical reasoning with mathematics, and inspiring curiosity and experimentation through science, the initiative ensures that students are equipped not just for their exams, but for life beyond the classroom.
This initiative reflects the core essence of the school’s education, preparing students for a future filled with possibility.
RUNNING RINGS AROUND THE CORE
Delving into the heart of the programme, acting assistant principal and programme co-Chairman Haji Mohd Rozelyzan bin Haji Sipin highlighted its mission to ignite a passion for English, mathematics, and science among students.
“We want our students to feel more connected to these subjects,” he shared, “by exploring them through engaging and dynamic sporting activities that sharpen their skills in these essential areas.”
To bring this vision to life, students embarked on a series of challenges scattered across the school grounds, cleverly designed to exercise both mind and body.
Teams, named after major sporting events like the Olympics and SEA Games, created a lively atmosphere that mirrored the competitive spirit of the programme.
The event saw participation from five schools, including SAB, Ma’had Islam Brunei, and Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic School (SASHHB), all uniting under the banner of learning.
Students navigated six challenge stations, each centred on one of the three core subjects, ensuring a well-rounded experience that was both educational and fun.
Among the unique challenges students faced was using their numeracy skills to calculate the number of times they could jump on a trampoline, while another had them exploring the body’s anatomy – pinpointing parts on themselves to reinforce classroom lessons in a hands-on way.
These physical activities helped students connect abstract concepts to real-world applications, turning lessons into memorable experiences.
As exams loom, these initiatives become invaluable, offering students a fresh perspective and a boost in confidence.
By shifting from rote memorisation to active participation, students develop a lasting interest in EMS, leading to better performance in exams and fostering a lifelong passion for learning.
More than just a break from the classroom routine, these activities are a crucial part of the learning process.
They allow students to release energy, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being – essential elements that make them more receptive to absorbing new knowledge and mastering the material at hand.
ACTIVE LEARNING, ACTIVE MINDS
Haji Mohd Rozelyzan echoed this sentiment, expressing his hope that the programme would provide students with a valuable learning experience – not only preparing them for their upcoming examinations but also setting the stage for their future academic journey and beyond.
By blending learning with physical activities, initiatives like this represent a growing trend towards holistic education.
It’s not just about passing exams; it’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are curious, confident, and capable of tackling whatever challenges come their way.
Making education enjoyable through engaging, hands-on activities help students develop a positive relationship with learning – one that will benefit them throughout their lives.
As the students gear for their exams, they do so armed with a deeper understanding and appreciation of their subjects, gained through these creative and active experiences.
This approach doesn’t just shape their academic performance; it shapes their future, instilling skills and attitudes that will carry them far beyond the classroom. – Daniel Lim
