Learning Outside the Box 1

In this episode, we connect with an educator from Trinidad, Phillis Griffith. Phillis is the Principal of New Beginnings Educational Centre, a private special school and the President of Private Special Schools Association of Trinidad and Tobago (PSSATT). She shares how skills-based learning and creating a school environment where students become teachers have been transformative. Education must change to better prepare children for adulthood in this time. Concern is expressed that overly complex processes used by government agencies are compromising the supportive relationship between schools and those agencies that regulate them.

 She and Anne-Marie discuss the importance of re-introducing technical/vocational subjects in schools. Phillis calls for greater compassion particularly because of hidden disabilities. She invites educators to use innovation to get the best out of children and to give the best to them.