Ensuring Our Academic Journey Is Sustainable
Sustainability is a key notion in current discussions. Wastage, misuse, use of alternative energy resources, is challenging not only government and policy makers, but substantially individuals at the grass root level.
Students entering our HS grow into the culture and demands of the IGCSE and later the IB programme. They develop skills and best practices in order to go through the experience hopefully in a flowing manner, where academic competence is developed along side a holistic approach to a balanced student life. But does this happen inevitably, is it experienced with flow by and large?
Few questions come to mind. How can students retain their mental, physical, emotional and social health sustainably throughout the four years at HS, creating a ‘win-win’ experience where one’s personal needs are not compromised by the pressures of the academic programme?
How do they manage to engage successfully, working towards their academic goals, whilst respectfully taking adequate and quality sleep, or making time to be nourished by close relationships, to include that with themselves, their family, their peers and the environment?
How can they be encouraged along the way to move towards new and newer milestones, grow into young adults and emerge at the graduation ceremony with a record of having sustained a balanced student life, whilst growing through it to become the best version of them?
How can students develop a sense of agency, and a confidence that spurs them onto university life? This is the project they have. Learning the skills of saving resources, thinking innovatively, designing solutions, in a sustainable fashion.
I believe that at VIS we strive, and continue to walk with each student, supporting one and all to let them be changed whilst retaining stability. Ultimately to turn into adults who know how to go through challenges, and emerge stronger. This is the sustainable life lesson they will hold, and trustfully be etched in their heart.
Ms Trapani HS Counsellor