New learning models key to reform, says Minister Blackman

Minister of Educational Transformation, Senator Chad Blackman, has been touting the government’s plans for education reform.

He said while the current model served the country well over the past 60 to 70 years, it has not unlocked the innate potential of every child.

As he spoke of the plan to position Barbados as having the top education system globally, the minister said project-based learning, music, and the arts must be better accommodated.

“It is going to require a lot of heavy lifting, a lot of deconstructing of models that we have relied upon,” Minister Blackman said at a documentary screening hosted by WeeCARE Outreach Inc. on Saturday.

“That’s why I think strategically there is a lot that we need to do working together, and I want to give you a commitment—to you and your team and all of you as part of the ecosystem of the school—to work with you to build out a first-class institution.”

Co-founder of WeeCARE Montessori Outreach speaking to Dr. Ramona Bradshaw, Chief Education Officer and Senator Chad Blackman.

Lisa Perkins, owner of Wee Pals Montessori and co-founder of WeeCARE Montessori Outreach, welcomed the government’s plans.

“I have been following the education trends, and I am especially interested in the government’s intent for its reform. I am also really encouraged by Minister Blackman’s passion, forward-thinking approach, and willingness to listen to those who may seem to be thinking outside the box of education norms.”

Announcing the expansion of Wee Pals to include Montessori primary education, she reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to holistic learning with a team skilled in psychology, behavioural therapy, special needs, and child development.

Describing the Montessori approach as holistic, individualized, and hands-on, she explained, “The method, scientific in its nature, does not end at the preschool level but continues right through college. It is a proven one developed for all learners from all walks of life.”

Perkins assured, “Montessori is not education only for the elite, nor is it education only for those with developmental delays. It is, in essence, the Maria Montessori School of Barbados—education for all.”

Co-founder Alyssa Fearn highlighted changing family dynamics. “We have seen that the dynamic of Barbadian homes has shifted, from once close-knit communities to ones that now have many fractures.”

“We want to bring the Montessori teaching method into the community as well and hope to open our doors to a wider public and have a hub for the charity.”

She called for support to secure an adjacent property for a community library, classrooms, and outreach programmes. (STT)