Education

Enid Capron Primary School Celebrates Reading Month 2022

Published

2 years ago

March 11, 2022

#TurksandCaicos, March 11, 2022 – The Enid Capron Primary School celebrated its annual Reading Month this February under the theme: “Read Something New in 2022”. Our activities included: An Opening Ceremony, Word of the Week Competition, Teacher and Student Swap Reading Time, a Storytelling Competition, Kindergarten Pyjama Day and Speech Competition. Head of the Reading Committee, Ms. Nelene Swan, stated in her remarks: “February was a month filled with a number of exciting Reading initiatives to encourage our students to read more. It gave them the opportunity to see how reading can enhance their vocabulary and also take them anywhere in the world through pictures and stories. Overall, it was a great experience for the students and built a greater partnership with the Teachers and Parents.” Prizes included cash, story books and school supplies.

Enid Capron Primary School- Reading Month 2022

Speech Competition

The Annual Speech Competition was a highlight of the Reading Month celebrations. For this competition, E.C.P.S. students from Grades 4 to 6 were asked to write a 500-word essay then read it to a panel of judges and an audience on the topic: “Exploring Our Learning Options: The Hybrid Approach”.

“EXPLORING OUR LEARNING OPTIONS: THE HYBRID APPROACH”

Calvin Sejour- E.C.P.S. Speech Competition 2022: 1st Place Winner

Good morning. I am Calvin Sejour and this Tuesday morning; I will speak to you about the hybrid approach to learning. The hybrid approach comes along with the rise of education technology; schools have adopted teaching methods that diverge from the typical classroom environment. Distance learning is being used on a worldwide scale, and many educational institutions are starting to implement hybrid learning models.

However, hybrid learning is more than just tossing half of your syllabus into a virtual classroom. Instead, it is a comprehensive approach to combining the best parts of face-to-face and online learning to create the ideal learning experience. Hybrid learning is an educational model where some students attend class in person, while others join the class virtually from home. Educators teach remote and in-person students at the same time using tools like video conferencing hardware and software.

Both face-to-face and online learning have their benefits and weaknesses. The goal of hybrid learning is to combine the two formats to create a singular learning experience without any weak spots. Many schools transition to hybrid learning for flexibility: a flexible learning schedule, flexibility in teaching modes, flexibility in how students engage with their learning materials, and flexibility in collaboration and communication between peers and their instructor. For students who aren’t able to attend classes in person, the hybrid learning environment allows them to learn remotely from home.

How do some teachers feel about hybrid learning?

Most teachers saw it as the worst of all options, and hated it almost instantly. Nearly two years into the pandemic, hybrid classes have been largely locked back into the pandemic toolbox and most schools are open for full-time in-person classes. But a quieter war over hybrid teaching is still underway.

Hybrid courses are a specific mode of learning that may not suit every student. Some students procrastinate more than others; some are satisfied with barely passing a course. If you are this type of person, you may find that a hybrid course is much more time consuming and difficult for you.

Thank you.

“EXPLORING OUR LEARNING OPTIONS: THE HYBRID APPROACH”

Hello. My name is Ava Welch, a fifth-grade student at the Enid Capron Primary School.

Ava Welsh- E.C.P.S Speech Competition 2022: 2nd Place Winner

Hybrid learning is an educational approach to learning in which students appear at school, which is face-to- face learning and engages in classes online. In using my class for an example, we are split into two groups. The first group has two days, and the second group has three days. This changes every two weeks. This allows for the students to go to all classes, for example Music class which is every other week.

Websites state that hybrid learning describes an educational model in which students spend at least half of their time learning online and the rest of their time learning in physical classrooms. In my words I would just say Hybrid learning is something that happened when covid 19 started, half of a class went to school, and the other half stayed at home online.

I do not think hybrid learning is the best approach because you have some children who may have trouble navigating the online process. There are also children who are unsupervised because their parents must work, so the kids sometimes play games and do not pay attention in class. The teachers have two days a week with 1 set of students and then 3 days with the other set of students face to face. To keep the kids on the same level the teacher may have to repeat his/her lessons over again leaving less time for the whole class to learn new things.

It is my opinion that some students take advantage of online classes. One reason is because they can turn off their microphones and cameras and do whatever they desire, for example, on the days when we were fully online, some of my classmates use to lay on their comfortable beds while everyone else would sit on their wooden chairs.

People can also take advantage of face-to-face education, because they can just chat with friends and not pay any attention in class and those kids who do that will get left behind in class or work. As for me, whether online, face to face or hybrid learning, I make sure to pay attention.

Hybrid learning is something that I would recommend when covid-19 numbers are high. Overall, I do not recommend hybrid learning because I believe it is hard for students and teachers alike. ‘

Do any of you know Samajeo Williams? Well, if not, he is the Director of the National Public Health Labotory in the Turks and Caicos Islands and also, he is my amazing dad! Right now, Covid-19 numbers are low so I would not recommend hybrid learning. Face to face learning is always the best way for kids to learn.

Thank you.

“EXPLORING OUR LEARNING OPTIONS: THE HYBRID APPROACH”

A pleasant Tuesday morning to you all. My name is Deliesha Toussaint. Today, I will be talking about the Hybrid Approach and other approaches to learning. I will also share with you the one that is my favourite.

Deliesha Toussaint- E.C.P.S. Speech Competition 2022: 3rd Place Winner

What is the Hybrid approach? It is a combination of two different methodologies or systems that has the aim to create a new and better model to learning.

However, hybrid learning is more than just tossing half of your syllabus into a virtual classroom. Instead, it is a comprehensive approach to combining the best parts of face-to-face and online learning to create the ideal learning experience In some cases, hybrid classes include learning elements, like online exercises and pre-recorded video instruction, to support face-to-face classroom sessions. When planned well, hybrid courses combine the best aspects of in-person and online learning while making education more attainable for many students.

Face-to-face learning can be good especially since wifi at our homes can be slow. When the Wi-Fi is slow, the teacher thinks I am playing games but I am not. However, when we are at school for face-to-face learning we play around.

I prefer online learning. One reason I like virtual learning is that there is no fighting.

\Also, with online learning, we can sleep and the teacher will never know!

On the other hand, learning online can be very distracting. Some of us come to learn but some come to play. We do not study; we do not do our class assignments either.

Students at my school say that they like virtual school because:

there is no fighting
they get away with doing things without the teacher finding out about it
they get more time to eat

I want my school to remain doing face-to-face learning even though I support the hybrid approach.

I thank you.

Photo Captions:

Header: Winning Class of the Storytelling Competition: Grade 2Fulford

1st insert: Speech Competition Finalists

Education

DEPARTMENT OF SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS SERVICES OF THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION HOSTS THERAPY ABROAD TEAM

Published

7 days ago

July 19, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

#TurksandCaicos, July 19, 2024 – The Department of Special Education Needs Services recently hosted a team from Therapy Abroad, comprising two speech and language therapists and their graduate students from Hampton University in Virginia, U.S.A. The visit, filled with impactful activities and cultural exchanges, underscores the department’s commitment to enhancing educational services for children in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

During their stay, the Therapy Abroad team had the opportunity to engage with key educational stakeholders. They had a courtesy call with the Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor, and the Permanent Secretary, Cherylann Jones, discussing collaborative efforts and sharing expertise. Their itinerary also included a visit to Thelma Lightbourne Primary School, where they met with teachers to discuss best practices in Speech and Language Therapy. The Hon. Minister of Education praised the initiative, stating, “This collaboration with Therapy Abroad is a testament to our commitment to providing our children with the best possible educational support. The knowledge and expertise shared during this visit are invaluable to our ongoing efforts.”

A highlight of the visit was the 4-day Speech Camp hosted at the Salvation Army in Providenciales. This camp provided invaluable speech assessments and therapy sessions for children, offered them tailored support and interventions. The team’s dedication to service was matched by their enthusiasm for cultural immersion; they participated in local activities such as the island’s renowned Fish Fry and enjoyed a boat tour, enriching their understanding of the local culture.

The Director of Special Education Needs Services, Dr. Anya Malcolm, commenting on the visit shared, “Welcoming the Therapy Abroad team has been a wonderful experience. Their work has not only benefited our children but also strengthened our community’s approach to Special Education.” The Coordinator of Assessments, Mrs. Lashaunda Skippings, who oversaw and accompanied the team throughout their visit, shared, “Ensuring the smooth execution of this visit was a priority for us. The team’s dedication and the positive impact they’ve had on our children’s lives is truly commendable.”

Looking forward, the Department of Special Education Needs Services aims to host more specialized camps and assessments across various islands and provide ongoing training for teachers. These initiatives will further our mission to offer comprehensive support and services to our neurodiverse children, ensuring they receive the quality education they deserve.

This visit marks a significant step towards bridging global expertise with local educational needs, demonstrating the power of collaboration in achieving excellence in special education services. For more information, you can contact the department via email om sens@gov.tc, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more updates on our programs and initiatives.

Education

PRECIOUS TREASURES SCHOOL TO REPRESENT THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS AT THE REGIONAL FINALS OF NATIONAL TOURISM DEBATE COMPETITION

Published

2 weeks ago

July 9, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands 9^th July 2024 – The eagerly anticipated Regional Finals of the National Tourism Debate Competition will take place virtually with national champions, Precious Treasures School representing the Turks and Caicos Islands on 12 July, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. The Turks and Caicos Islands team comprises of Team Captain, Ms. Ade Cushnie, Ms. Kiarah McLean and Mr. Theo Silva, accompanied by their coach Ms. Maurissa Horne. The event will be broadcast live from via the Ministry of Tourism Facebook page from a closed set at the Atrium, Providenciale

The Regional Finals will showcase a captivating debate between Elmore Stoutt High School, British Virgin Islands and representing the government and Precious Treasures School taking the opposition stance. The teams will engage in a thought-provoking debate on the topic, “This house believes increasingly devastating superstorms and earthquakes make our number one tourism industry risky business for the Caribbean,”

The National Tourism Debate Competition has been a collaborative effort led by the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services along with the Ministry of Tourism, with sponsorship from key partner, Experience Turks and Caicos and steadfast support the Edward C. Gartland Youth Center, the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association and the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College. The competition aims to foster critical thinking, public speaking skills, and a deeper understanding of the pivotal role of the tourism industry, regionally among the youth.

The Hon. Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism, Environment, Fisheries and Marine Affairs, Culture and Heritage, Agriculture and Religious Affairs, expressed her delight in the Turks and Caicos Islands returning to the Regional Finals, stating, “The National Tourism Debate Competition provides a unique opportunity for our youth to explore and analyze critical issues affecting our tourism industry. I am eager to witness Precious Treasures School put forth a creative argument are for Risk Mitigation and wish them all the best.”

The Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services, also shared her excitement, saying, “Our students’ commitment to ingenuity will be showcased as Precious Treasures School represents the country at this premier youth tourism debate. I commend the dedication of the parents and coaches, who lend to this effort and wish TEAM TCI all the best of luck as they prepare to bring home the trophy.”

The public is cordially invited to follow the debate via the Ministry of Tourism’s social media platforms, including Facebook, to witness the intellectual prowess and engaging discourse showcased by the talented young debaters.

Education

Four Chevening Scholarships awarded to Turks and Caicos Islands Scholars for 2024-2025

Published

3 weeks ago

July 5, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

Thadine Crossman

The Governor’s Office is pleased to announce that four Scholars from the Turks and Caicos Islands have been awarded Chevening Scholarships to pursue their master’s degrees in the UK for the academic year 2024-2025:

Thadine Crossman MSc Occupational Safety, Health and Environment
Dodly Prosper MSc Biodiversity and Conservation
Royshana Robinson MSc Forensic Toxicology
Ashley Williams MSc Project Management

This is the first time the Turks and Caicos Islands will have four Chevening Scholars within the same academic year. It is also commendable to note that Scholar Royshana Robinson is the top-ranking scholar from across the Overseas Territories.

Dodly Prosper

Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, said, “It is with immense pride that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our four outstanding Scholars on being awarded the prestigious Chevening Scholarship. With dynamic skills and experiences across environmental protection, forensic science, public health, project delivery and leadership, they are a demonstration of our youth’s passion, vision and commitment to strengthening the future of these Islands. I hope their success as Chevening Scholars inspires others to achieve their full potential and contribute to the collective progress of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Royshana Robinson

Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding emerging leaders from all backgrounds and areas of study who can demonstrate that they have the commitment and skills to create positive change in their country. The scholarship offers full financial support for scholars to study for any eligible master’s degree at over 150 UK universities whilst also gaining access to a wide range of exclusive academic, professional and cultural experiences.

The Chevening Awards Scheme is the UK Government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations. The scheme offers scholarship awards to outstanding emerging leaders around the world to study for a master’s degree in the UK. Visit chevening.org/scholarships for detailed information on the eligibility criteria and scholarship specifications.

Ashley Williams

For those interested in becoming a Chevening Scholar, the application cycle for study in the next academic year, 2025-2026, opens on 06 August 2024. Visit www.chevening.org to learn more. #BeChevening