Ministry’s new initiative a hit as students return to school

housands of students were welcomed back to school in style when the Michaelmas school term got off to a start on Monday.

They were treated to musical renditions from bands, received words of encouragement from politicians, got the opportunity to have mini photoshoots with their friends, and took part in a soca sing-along with some of the island’s top entertainers such as Grateful Co and Allison Hinds.

The activities were part of the Ministry of Education’s Ready Set Go programme, a welcome-back initiative for public and private schools.

Minister of Education Kay McConney also visited three schools – St Bartholomew Primary, Shirley Chisholm Primary and Springer Memorial School.

When the tour culminated at the latter, McConney said she was pleased about the level of participation in the Ready Set Go programme.

“We asked a number of schools to take a very different approach to how we welcome students into school, making them feel welcome, making it exciting, allowing them to know that, you know, that coming to school is actually a good thing – it’s not the end of your summer vacation, but it is the beginning of a year of wonderful learning – and the schools brought out their creativity in all the many different ways . . . and I must say that it has been encouraging,” she said.

At schools across the country, students were also offered words of encouragement from school heads.

Lester Vaughan School principal Suzette Holder urged students to become “ideal” learners and make a positive impact on the world.

The call for academic excellence and personal growth was echoed at Combermere School, where new principal Robin Douglas emphasised continuing the institution’s “powerful legacy of excellence”.

Addressing students on their first day back, Holder warmly welcomed new students to Lester Vaughan, stressing that staff expect the best from them. She outlined key traits of an ideal student, drawing inspiration from the Bible.

“The ideal Lester Vaughan possesses a number of characteristics that truly embody the spirit of Philippians 4:8 – it treats to students who focus on what is true, honourable, just, pure, lovely and commendable,” Holder explained. She added that students should strive “for excellence in all they do and set their minds on what is praiseworthy as they navigate their academic journey and personal growth”.

Leadership was highlighted as a crucial attribute. “You strive to be a role model in all you do. [You] demonstrate initiative, guide peers positively and take responsibility in group settings. You strive for high academic personal best in all endeavours,” Holder added.

The principal acknowledged the challenges of a rapidly evolving technological landscape and concerns about youth delinquency. However, she maintained that students are expected to be team players, show empathy, and respect, and adhere to strong values. Holder emphasised that a positive attitude is vital in shaping productive citizens.

Accountability was stressed as another key characteristic. “[Our students] are non-violent, and promote a safe environment by rejecting bullying, fighting, and any form of violence. A safe and peaceful environment for all,” Holder said.

At Combermere School, newly appointed principal Robin Douglas, formerly of The Lodge School, addressed the full assembly. He declared that he and his team were fully prepared for the academic year ahead.

“The school has an absolutely powerful legacy of excellence. We intend to continue that and improve on it in every way possible,” Douglas stated. He introduced this year’s theme as Passing the Baton, highlighting the expectation for students to contribute to the school’s ongoing legacy of achievement.

Douglas replaces Julia Beckles who has become Deputy Chief Education Officer. His replacement at The Lodge School is Stephen Jackman, formerly the head of Christ Church Foundation. Jackman, a former head boy of The Lodge, becomes only the second old scholar in the school’s 279-year-old history to return as headmaster. The first alumnus as headmaster was W.A. Farmer from 1949 to 1954. (SZB/SB)