By James Penstone, Secondary Principal
23 August 2024
Empowering Our Learners to Change Their World
As we settle into the new academic year, we are excited to see our community united under a shared vision, rooted in our new strategic direction. This vision, which I emphasised during last week’s Welcome Back Secondary Assembly, focuses on empowering our learners to change their world. Central to this vision is a deep commitment to service—both within our school community and beyond. Our mission statement underscores the importance of taking responsibility, and we believe that true empowerment arises when this responsibility is connected to the pursuit of our passions.
During last week’s assembly, several of our students shared their inspiring service learning experiences, each of which embodies the very essence of our school's vision.
Villars Institute Symposium - Alexandru, Livia and Max
In late June, Alexandru (Grade 9), Max (Grade 11) and Livia (Grade 11) represented our school at the prestigious Villars Institute Symposium. Collaborating with global experts in sustainability and climate change, and engaging with students from across the world, they explored the critical role of intergenerational collaboration in addressing environmental challenges. Their rich experience highlighted the importance of our school’s contribution to these global efforts, and their passion for environmental solutions was truly inspiring.
Strategic Design Team: Sophia, Kaya, Ilayda and Maria Leading the Way
Our Strategic Design Team, comprised of Sophia, Kaya, Ilana, and Maria all now in Grade 12, played a pivotal role in shaping our new strategic plan last year. These Grade 12 students co-led workshops with parents, staff, and students, and conducted interviews with leaders across various sectors in Zurich and Switzerland. Their efforts contributed to the finalisation of our strategic vision, providing them with invaluable leadership experience and contemporary insights into the qualities future employers may seek.
CAS Initiative: Andrzej and Timmy's Football Academy
Grade 12 students Andrzej and Timmy turned their passion for football into an opportunity to serve an Afghan refugee community within Zurich. Through their CAS initiative, they organised football academy coaching sessions for children, demonstrating persistence and creativity in gathering support from our community. Their project not only provided meaningful service but also deepened their understanding of the diverse experiences of others.
These student reflections are powerful examples of how service learning can positively impact both the learner and the world that they serve. The significance of such commitment was further highlighted at our first-ever student-led CAS exhibition, where students from across the secondary school shared their service-oriented initiatives with younger students.
As we progress through the year, we look forward to more of our students embracing their responsibility to change their world. We are confident that through authentic service learning, they will continue to deepen their understanding of ethical intelligence and their capacity to make a difference.
James Penstone
Secondary Principal