challenging times

The educational system in Barbados continues to be plagued with various challenges, all of which can have an impact on the way that teaching is conducted in classrooms around the island.

This was one of the points raised by Principal of Combermere School, Vincent Fergusson, at the school’s recent Speech Day and Prize Giving Ceremony.

“Schools are very complex institutions which make the task of teaching very challenging. For example, the teacher is almost fully responsible for 30 different personalities. I cannot think of a job where an individual has such a responsibility…”

Another issue that they face has to do with student tardiness.

“Hats off to our teachers as we continue to experience serious problems with student tardiness, some of their own doing and in recent times, some created by the transport system. Audience, if a student misses any time from school, that student is at an immediate disadvantage, even though the circumstance may be unavoidable. Parents, make every effort and ensure your wards are on time for school and classes.”

There are also certain matters of indiscipline that tend to creep up from time to time.

“Many of our students display loutish behaviours – disregarding the authority figure, using profanities at will, involving themselves in games of chance etc. As teachers we are mandated to prepare our charges to become good citizens. If so, then we have to teach them appropriate values. [However,] the school should not be saddled with the full responsibility of teaching such values. We just cannot get it done with the limited time and minimal resources available to us. The other major planks – home and church – must step up and do more to inculcate stronger values in our youth,” the principal stated.

This is where the partnership between the school, home and the church would be especially valuable, he added.

In addition, there is the unsuitable use of social media as well as electronic devices by some students, which parents/guardians must manage.

“The challenge of electronic devices – cellphones and tablets – and inappropriate use of social media is a real one. We as leaders must accept that we must seek to find solutions that will ensure that maximum good is derived from use of such technology.” (PJT)