Students come (…)

Here is another example of an engaging practice that, from a professional experience, fosters students’ SCHOOL ENGAGEMENT. By school engagement we mean students’ observable participation in school activities, sense of belonging to classmates and teachers, and valuing success in school-related goals.

It is implemented by: Teachers, youth workers and church youth workers

It is directed at students aged:  12-14, 15-16, >16

Target group: Singe student-centered, group-centered, class-centered

Main subjects involved: Cross curricular, social skills

ICT involvement:  no

Description of the practice: Students come to secondary school from many different schools, so a team-building day is really necessary. The group bonding day is spent at the parish camping centre and all activities are done in nature. The day is more like a camp day than a school day.

The activities are planned and implemented together by the class teacher and youth worker/s. The idea is to spend the whole day at the centre getting to know each other through various group forming activities. During the day the students work in their future class groups. Working together improves the working atmosphere in the classroom and in future lessons.

Accessible to any student: yes

Meaningful participation for every student: yes

Why?: Getting to know new classmates helps the transition from primary to secondary school.

Support to the practice: yes

Link with more information: Website |