In my assembly this week, I read one of Aesop’s fables to the children in the Prep department; The Crow and the Jug. This year we are focusing on Learning Powers with the help of Super Hoot. I decided to enlist one of his feathered friends, the crow, to help explain what initiative and independence are.
In the fable, the crow uses his initiative to raise the level of water in the jug by dropping pebbles into it. He does this alone, with no help and facing the risk of failure. At School, we realise that taking the initiative helps children to propel their lives forward in a purposeful direction. Using initiative directs their attention toward a challenging goal and helps them overcome obstacles. Taking the initiative requires a combination of inner energy and outer action; both of which need courage to execute. Children with initiative go above and beyond the average. They do not just do what is required or what is asked of them. For example, our Prefects at SVPS have to use their initiative when carrying out their responsibilities; making decisions and acting independently to carry out tasks.
In Pre-Prep this week, the children have been using their initiative in lots of ways; from working out mathematical puzzles to choosing an activity for Golden Time and sourcing the relevant resources. This is where initiative goes hand-in-hand with independence, the other Super Hoot power that we are focusing on. At SVPS we nurture independence in our pupils from the moment they step foot into Nursery right up until they reach the top of the School in Year 6. Inevitably, being independent means that mistakes will be made. This is where, as adults, we give our children the chance to master tasks independently, while still offering support along the way. We all have those moments when we just want to kneel down and quickly tie the shoelaces because we are running late; but we need to sometimes hold ourselves back and leave it to the child to try.
This week, Year 4 has been away at the Swattenden Centre for one night; a new adventure introduced this year. This is undoubtedly an excellent opportunity for all pupils to develop their independence and initiative. Going to outdoor centres such as Swattenden gives the children many opportunities to be challenged; physically and mentally. They return with tales of adversity and adventure, of obstacles overcome and friendship bonds strengthened. For some, this may be the first time they have stayed away from family; which is in itself a challenge. One thing is certain; each and every child will have returned from their sleep-away adventure a little more independent, having had to use their initiative. Oh, and possibly a little muddier than when they left!
Mrs Harrison
Academic Deputy Head