VOICES

At Keys, we believe that learning is developmental, experiential and collaborative. Anchored on the principles of progressive education, Keys School Manila believes that: 

Learning is tailored to individual needs.

At Keys, we believe that all learners are capable of excellent work if their specific skills, needs and experiences are considered in the learning process. We recognize that each learner is unique and has their own set of strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles.  It involves providing personalized learning experiences that are based on the child's developmental stage and understanding that it is not a one-size-fits-all approach but instead, there are varied ways and pace of learning content and skills. 

Take for example our approach to teaching reading. Instead of prescribing books or articles to be read by the entire class, students choose and read books based on their independent reading levels. Students select books that are at an appropriate level of difficulty for their reading skills. This can help ensure that students are reading books that are challenging enough to build their skills, but not so difficult that they become frustrated and discouraged. Teachers use the independent reading levels to monitor students' progress and adjust their instruction and support as needed.

Math classes across grades are taught using the The CPA (Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract) approach that is a central feature of the Singapore Math curriculum. Day to day math activities provide exposure for students to learn with and through manipulatives instead of the usual drills and  memorization of facts. Students are encouraged to learn using concrete objects, visual aids,  and symbols to represent mathematical concepts. By using concrete objects and visual aids, students can better understand abstract mathematical concepts and develop more effective problem-solving skills.

Learning is meaningful to the learner.

We believe that learning should be presented to students in such a way that the content being learned is practical and will enhance students’ skill sets inside and outside of the classroom. Teachers act as facilitators in class to allow students to construct knowledge through hands-on experiences, play, and social interaction. The learners are exposed to problem solving in a natural and contextual setting so that the concept being learned can be accurately applied to situations encountered in the real world. 

Apart from knowledge of content and skills, we also put emphasis on soft skills they can apply inside and outside of the classroom. We want our learners to be able to make intentional decisions about their reactions, emotions, behavior, time and task management. At Keys, we engage the students in active processes and help them build and choose from a repertoire of strategies and can consider alternative actions. Students are also included in the decision-making process. They learn to formulate rules and agreements. They are also encouraged to give suggested consequences that are appropriate.

Learning is experiential and effects change in self and society

We believe that the child plays an active part in his or her own growth and development and can positively or negatively affect the course of his life. At Keys, the learner is actively engaged in the learning process and takes an active role in shaping their own learning. As we see the community as an extension of the classroom, this can involve a range of activities, such as hands-on projects, field trips, simulations, or group work. Through these experiences, learners can develop new skills and knowledge, as well as a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Through these in-depth investigations, students are able to synthesize their knowledge through different perspectives. By providing opportunities for learners to engage with real-world issues and problems, our students develop new skills, knowledge, and perspectives, and contribute to positive change in themselves and society.