A seamless transition to secondary education

THE EDITOR: As we begin this new school year, I am reminded of the lyrics of the calypso by the Mighty Sparrow when he sang: “Those were happy days, very happy days/ School days were happy, happy days.”

The school life of our children should be enjoyable. As this school year commences, it is well to note that for the first time, beyond writing the assessment examination from primary to secondary school, there was a programme aimed at a seamless transition.

Under the acronym STEPS (Students Transmitting Effectively from Primary to Secondary), with a well structured curriculum developed by the Ministry of Education in consultation with interested stakeholders, the third term afforded compliance when post-SEA students were involved in activities preparing them for the next level.

Suitable and competent personnel were available to advise on the programme which included group work, reporting, evidence of activities undertaken and final judging by an independent panel.

Corporate citizens Southern Systems and Ramsingh’s Sports World sponsored a cash price and trophies to the winning schools – Lengua Islamia, first, and Siparia Road Presbyterian and Barrackpore Vedic, tied for second.

At an impressive presentation function, John Jagroop, director of curriculum development, Education Ministry, remarked that this could well be an example for the Caribbean to follow. He felt committed to take time off his holidays to deliver the feature address.

The competition was called Eco-SMART (Students Making A Realistic Turnaround) Kids. There was evidence of meaningful action and development. The students participating would have gained real preparation for the secondary level.

It is envisaged that this will become a permanent fixture on the primary school calendar.

I express my deep admiration to the Curriculum Division with which I had the pleasure of working on this inaugural edition as its officers demonstrated professionalism at all times.

LENNOX SIRJUESINGH

retired principal