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LEARNING
Communication, Language and Literacy
English is the medium of instruction and is encouraged as much as possible. However, the main aim is to develop effective communication in both local and international languages. Hindi and Marathi are formally taught from Std 1. English Language and Hindi are offered at IGCSE level.
Phonics is a key part of the initial English language learning process. Students follow the Fab Phonics series, written by Joy Townsend (our Director) and published by Perwinkle books.
Alongside grammar, spelling and handwriting students are encouraged to create their own stories. 'Write for Change' is a SWIS developed creative writing programme used in Std 1 to 4.
Students read regularly in SQUIRT sessions everyday. This brings the enjoyment of reading, an increased vocabulary and understanding. All classrooms have their own libraries of fiction and non-fiction books.
Each year, authors Roald Dahl and Dr Seuss are studied for a week in a cross-curricular manner integrating language, drama, art, music etc.
Mathematics
Mathematics is taught in a very practical manner, ensuring that students understand the concepts not just memorise the calculations. Students use a number of manipulatives to help this.
Sciences
Science starts in the pre-primary and continues all the way to IGSCE. Until 5th Std science is taught as a combined subject, from 6th Std Biology, Chemistry and Physics are studied separately.
Science is kept very practical and students experiment as much as possible. Students are taught scientific enquiry ensuring understanding not just rote learning of answers.
Humanities
Geography and History are taught as separate subjects from Std 3 onward. Both local, national and international geography and history are studied.
More attention is paid to the how and why of something and the ways this may affect us, rather than the pure learning of facts.
Expressive Arts and Design
Expressive arts and design includes art and craft, music and drama. Whilst techniques are taught and practiced, students are also encouraged to use their imagination and be creative. Opportunities are given for them to apply their knowledge in different situations. Students often create and perform their own dramas in assemblies and for larger gatherings such as Annual Day. Music is taught as a separate subject but also permeates through other subjects as students use song to help remember concepts. One assembly a week is devoted to singing, where students learn a range of songs both for themselves and for performance.
Physical Education
Physical Education (PE) is an important part of a broad education. The fitness and health of a student can directly affect their ability to learn.
Students learn specific skills which lead to the ability to participate in games as they progress. Students at SWIS partipate in fitness, skills, games, dance and game creation.
Technology
Information Communication Technology (ICT) is taught as a separate subject to students of Std 1+. Stds 9+10 may also have the option of Computer Science.
All students, including pre-primary, are exposed to and use technology in the classroom on a daily basis. Students are not taught book theory but practical use and application of ICT skills that will enable students to excel in the real world.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development
A student's emotional well-being is also essential. The school atmosphere enables students to feel safe, secure and gives them a chance to contribute to school life.
Students meet together for an assembly every day to be encouraged, informed or present their own learning.
Students are encouraged to ask questions and talk to each other and staff, as well as contribute ideas to improve school life.
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Topic
Pre-primary and Std 1+ 2 are organised around topics rather than separate subjects. This means that students see links between concepts, ideas and real-life. Language, maths, science, geography, history, ICT, PE may all be based on a story such as The Hungry Caterpillar. One of our most loved topics is Flat Stanley, a story of a boy who becomes flat and travels the world.
Every year, the whole school spends 2 weeks where their learning is based on the authors Dr.Seuss and Roald Dahl. The enjoyment, creativity and learning is a joy to experience.
Genius Hour
Genius Hour encourages self-learning, motivation and presentation. Students choose their own topic to research and then present to others. They learn the skills of research, pitches, organisation, summarising, ICT, presentation and accepting and using feedback.
Citizenship focuses on how to live in a way that benefits society. Students learn about and experience topics such as communication, group work, conflict resolution, goal setting and gardening.
Citizenship
Global Perspectives
Global Perspectives opens up student's thinking. Students realise that different people have different perspectives and how to appreciate each other. They also look at issues from individual, local, national and world perspectives.