By Sharon Nashipae – Communications and Community Coordinator
Story submitted by Edith Isaji, School Leader – Holy Stars School
At Dignitas, we believe that teachers are powerful agents of change with the potential to drive positive learning experiences for the children in their care and for the community at large. Tr. Edith is one such School Leader from Holy Stars School in Dandora, Nairobi. She was part of the Stawisha Instructional Leadership training program that has seen her experience and witness transformational changes within her school that she is excited to share with us. She takes immense pride in sharing the remarkable success story that has unfolded within their school.
Holy Stars School has created a safe and nurturing environment for learners. The impact of this secure space has not only revitalized Tr. Edith’s joy in teaching but has also fostered an atmosphere where teaching and learning thrive.
“Creating a safe environment for learners has made love teaching again, a feeling which I almost gave up on,” – Tr. Edith
After her Stawisha training, she learned the importance of cultivating strong relationships between students and teachers, which stands as a driving force behind the school’s success. These positive connections have transformed the learning experience, making it truly enjoyable for all participants. The sight of the bonds formed between students and educators warms their heart, creating an environment where everyone is motivated to learn and grow.
An inspiring outcome of these relationships has been the active engagement of learners in group discussions. By immersing themselves in these collaborative conversations, students have developed confidence and a collaborative spirit. Additionally, it has provided Tr. Edith with an opportunity to share responsibilities with the students, harnessing the collective knowledge that emerges from these discussions.
To further enrich the learning journey, Holy Stars School has placed a strong emphasis on making use of locally available teaching and learning materials. This intentional focus has brought about a remarkable shift in classroom dynamics, with students becoming highly active and engaged.
The school now recognizes the value of effective planning and embraced the power of early preparation. The implementation of structured lesson planning has significantly reduced time wastage, enabling the teachers to be well-prepared in advance. This proactive approach has also prompted a shift towards active learning methods, fostering deeper understanding and participation among students
This transformative journey has not only impacted the learners but has also enhanced the Tr. Edith’s and her fellow teachers’ efficiency as educators. It has empowered them to motivate and enhance students’ cognitive development, nurturing self-sufficiency and adaptability which are among the core competencies of Kenya’s CBC curriculum. They have learned to rebound from setbacks, embracing new ideas and techniques that further enrich the learning experience. Moreover, the Tr. Edith has made it a priority to provide students with the freedom of expression, allowing them to flourish and succeed according to their unique abilities.
The school’s unwavering commitment to creating a safe environment, fostering positive relationships, promoting vibrant discussions, providing quality teaching and learning materials, embracing early planning, and enhancing self-efficiency has led to an extraordinary success story. Together, as a united educational institution, they have nurtured an environment where learners thrive, educators are inspired, and personal growth is embraced. The future holds boundless possibilities as they continue to empower their students and pave the way for their success beyond the confines of the school.
If you enjoyed this story, read on about Brightshine School’s success story.