A Culture of Learning: an IB Magazine article by PYP Coordinator at ACS Egham

The following is an article discussing the culture of Creativity and Risk Taking that is important at ACS Egham School. It was recently published in the IB World magazine and was written by the PYP Coordinator Ms. Angela Riggs :-

"Most young children are highly creative and adept at using their imagination. Why is it, then, that by the time we reach adulthood, so many of us feel we have lost the creative spark?

In his book 'Out of Our Minds: Learning to be Creative, Sir Ken Robinson said that many adults mistakenly believe they are not creative. Robinson believes the problem often originates in our schools and universities, with many people leaving education 'with no idea what their real creative abilities are.'

There is a growing acceptance that creativity is not simply about coming up with ideas, but also finding practical solutions to everyday problems. Creativity a way of thinking in which we look at things with fresh eyes and explore new possibilities rather than reverting to well-worn approaches.

Today, creativity is widely regarded as a vital component of economic growth as employers strive to achieve continuous improvement. The challenge for educators is to nourish and develop natural creativity, and make sure it is not stifled. Too often school can place children on a conveyor belt, while 'the system' ensures they are pushed along prescribed tracks.

I believe the key to supporting creativity is to provide time for students to think, be it on their own or with others. Teachers at ACS Egham strive to create a culture of learning that reminds students there is no one right answer to any debate. We try to provide an environment in which students feel they can take risks and learn from their mistakes. We value all kinds of thinking, so that nobody's ideas are rejected, Above all, we must recognise that creativity is a skill which, while innate in children, can be enhanced by good teaching."

IB World Magazine - May 2011