Creativity, Confidence and Entrepreneurial spirit
Gathering at the Baobab tree began at twilight. It is there you’d find children sitting crossed legged in a circle, having a discussion with the elders about the happenings in the world. It was not a lecture where children only listened quietly, but where there was exchange of information, where children’s voices were as valued as the elders and mutual respect was the drive for conversations.
While we teach standard courses like Math, Science, Reading, or English, much of our time in the Academy is dedicated to turning the experience of learning upside down.
We place great value on the art of critical thinking.
When you come to our classroom today, you’ll eavesdrop on a lively conversation on the ethics of burying a man in a wall, because a wizard told the king it’s the only way to keep the kingdom safe.
You might hear us dissect the policies of one of our students who wants to become president when she grows up, tackling economics and conflict resolution.
During breaks join us learning Geometry with magnetic blocks, strategy with Chess, and embodiment with Yoga.
Our approach to learning adopts a model that respects and leverages the wisdom of children. This is done in two ways:
Socratic Conversations require that both teacher and student approach each other with respect for their intelligence, and humility enough to know mutual intellectual growth is possible.
Discussions proceed with deep respect and curiosity; students therefore feel empowered to say what’s on their mind and are unafraid to explore the world through multiple perspectives.
Peer-to-Peer Learning
We take socratic conversations and put them at the heart of student to student interaction.
The teacher is present more as a facilitator, than as an authority of knowledge. We then leverage the strengths of each student by allowing them to teach others what they know, and listen to learn from others. This approach builds three critical skills in our students -
Curiosity Collaboration Leadership
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To reach more students we need more of everything; a bigger space and more resources for an optimal learning environment.
Computers
Internet access
Electricity
Books
Book Shelves
Projectors for interactive learning
Art and School Supplies
Field trips
Teacher Salary
Nurse
Nutrient Supplements
