Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Gaël Rangain
Published on 2024-03-04 15:24:16
Since its establishment in 1994, Orchard Kids has worked diligently to help children acquire a strong foundation before transitioning to secondary school. Over the past 30 years, this private institution has found the secret to enabling children to develop and thrive academically. The support provided goes beyond just academics and has yielded impressive results: seven laureates in 30 years and one top ranked student. How did they manage to concoct this ideal formula? What are the essential ingredients that need to be included? Let’s find out.
Molding students to become more cultured and mature is one of the main goals that this educational institution has set for itself since welcoming children in 1994. Anirood Nunkoo, who has been working at Orchard Kids for 23 years and currently holds the position of Headmaster, explains the importance of innovation and improvement in teaching beyond simply following the syllabus provided by the Mauritius Institute of Education.
He emphasizes the necessity of guiding children in their academic journey and fostering their ability to think for themselves. Recognizing the potential distractions posed by technology, Nunkoo reveals that Orchard Kids introduced online courses to continue their support for students while maintaining a culture of hard work. The 82-year-old educator underscores the importance of adapting to the evolving educational landscape and fostering a love for reading among children through initiatives like a designated reading area.
According to Jacques Malié, the head of a college in Hermitage, the environment and support system surrounding a child play a crucial role in their academic success. Parents, in particular, are highlighted as essential educators who must instill good study habits in their children from a young age. Teachers also play a vital role in identifying and nurturing students’ talents, providing guidance and encouragement to help them excel in the future.
Becoming a top student goes beyond studying; it also involves gaining maturity. Malié stresses the need for students to be cultured and mature, as these qualities are essential for a successful academic and professional journey. The preparation for academic success begins as early as three to five years old, a critical period for cognitive development where children’s ability to assimilate information is at its peak.
Rajcoomar Baichoo, the founder of Orchard Kids, explains that the institution aims to assist children in acquiring the ability to learn from a young age, with a focus on individualized support and early preparation for academic excellence. Orchard Kids has expanded its offerings to include classes from grade 7 to senior year since 2018, with a 100% success rate for students taking grade 9 exams so far.
The success of Orchard Kids’ educational approach has been proven, and the next step is to establish a school for post-secondary education for graduates. This long-term goal is still in the works as the institution continues to focus on providing high-quality education and support to its students.
Overall, Orchard Kids’ commitment to innovation, individualized support, and fostering a love for learning has paved the way for academic excellence and personal growth among its students over the past three decades.
Read the original article(French) on Le Mauricien
