Transforming a school into an iconic institution requires a well-thought-out strategy and the commitment of various stakeholders, including administrators, teachers, students, parents, and the community. The following are the SIX pillars that drive us in the fulfillment of our mandate of transforming boys into men of integrity and purpose.
The STEM Program Pillar
Adapting the STEM Program is a big step towards aligning with global educational trends. As a futuristic school, we are moving towards STEM education due to its effectiveness in preparing students for the future and fostering a culture of innovation.
It is a unified approach to addressing real-world challenges. STEM projects often tackle real-world issues, fostering a sense of purpose and civic responsibility in students. They become aware of global challenges and are motivated to use their knowledge and skills to create positive change. Employers seek candidates with strong STEM skills, creativity, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving job market.
Merishaw School STEM Education Vision
Igniting the Spark of Innovation and Creativity
Our vision for STEM education at Merishaw School is to cultivate a dynamic learning environment that empowers our boys to become innovative problem solvers, critical thinkers, and future leaders in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics.
Through immersive experiences, interdisciplinary approaches, creativity, and a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, we aim to ignite a passion for STEM in our students and equip them with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an increasingly complex, technologically advanced, and creative world. Below is how we plan to achieve this:
STEM-Focused Curriculum:
Our STEM Approach is a curriculum that emphasizes cross-disciplinary learning, as STEM is not just about individual subjects but their integration.
With the Competency-Based Curriculum replacing the 8:4:4, private schools that will thrive are those that will go the extra mile to provide relevant and futuristic practical learning opportunities for their students.
Subjects in a STEM-Based Curriculum
Below are the key subjects typically included in a STEM curriculum:
1. Science
This includes various branches such as:
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
2. Technology
Technology refers to the study of tools, machines, and systems used to solve problems and achieve specific goals. It encompasses the following topics:
Coding
Programming
Robotics
3. Engineering
Engineering focuses on the application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and improve systems, structures, and processes.
The school has well-equipped workshops for the following subjects and learning areas:
Metalwork
A well-equipped metalwork workshop will provide our students access to various tools, equipment, and materials necessary for shaping, cutting, welding, and fabricating metal components. The students will practice and develop skills in metalworking techniques, fostering creativity and innovation in designing and building metal structures, sculptures, and functional objects.
Woodwork
A well-equipped woodwork workshop will enable students to work with wood and create furniture, cabinetry, and artistic pieces. Important tools here include:
Saws
Chisels
Planes
Sanders, etc.
Electricity
For electrical subjects, a well-equipped workshop includes tools for electrical installations, maintenance, and repairs. This includes multimeters, soldering equipment, circuit testers, and various electrical components. Students will gain hands-on experience in electrical wiring, troubleshooting, and working with circuits, enhancing their understanding of electrical systems.
Aviation Technology
In aviation technology workshops, students will learn about aircraft maintenance, repair, and assembly. A well-equipped workshop includes specialized tools for working on aircraft engines, avionics systems, airframes, and other critical components.
Merishaw aviators will practice the skills needed to maintain and inspect aircraft safely and in compliance with aviation standards.
Merishaw School is also partnering with other players in the industry to give our boys a holistic and relevant learning experience. Our goal is to ensure that all students who go through our hands are adequately prepared for the world of work.
Some of our ongoing partnerships include:
1. Droneactor – for drone pilot training
2. Flitestar – a nationally accredited and recognized flight academy
3. Wilson Airport
4. Kenya School of Flying
The management is also pursuing to establish links and partnerships with Boeing – the world’s biggest developer of commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems.
Building Construction
A well-equipped construction workshop provides students with tools for masonry, carpentry, plumbing, and other building trades. Students will learn to use construction materials effectively, practice assembling structures, and develop problem-solving skills required in the construction industry.
Power Mechanics
In power mechanics workshops, students will work with engines, motors, and other power-driven systems. Well-equipped workshops offer a range of tools for the maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of mechanical systems. This hands-on experience is valuable for students pursuing careers in automotive, industrial machinery, or other mechanical fields.
Leatherwork
For leatherwork subjects, a well-equipped workshop includes tools for cutting, sewing, stamping, and embossing leather. Students will experiment with different leatherworking techniques to create products such as belts, wallets, bags, and footwear.
Culinary Arts
In culinary arts, a well-equipped kitchen is essential to practice cooking techniques, food preparation, and presentation. The Merishaw School culinary arts kitchen will have professional-grade stoves, ovens, refrigeration, and other necessary culinary tools. A proper kitchen will allow the boys to hone their culinary skills and develop a deep understanding of food preparation and safety.
4. Mathematics
Mathematics forms the backbone of scientific and technological disciplines. Topics covered in a STEM curriculum may include algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and data analysis.
Apart from these core subjects, a STEM curriculum may also incorporate interdisciplinary projects and activities that integrate knowledge and skills from multiple domains. For example, students might engage in projects such as designing and building a robot (Technology and Engineering), studying its movements and interactions with the environment (Science), incorporating artistic elements for its appearance (Arts), and analyzing data from its operations (Mathematics).
The following are ways STEM will help our students embrace mathematics.
Incorporate Technology Tools – such as graphing calculators, mathematical software, and online resources.
Mathematical Software and Programs
Scratch
Google Sheets and Excel
Mathway
Mathematical Games and Puzzles
Sudoku
Logic puzzles
Strategy games
Coding and Mathematics:
Learn coding through Python and use it to solve mathematical problems.
Hands-on Projects: such as building robots, designing art installations using geometric principles, or coding interactive simulations.
How Merishaw School is Aligning in the Achievement of STEM Objectives
Fostering curiosity and promoting a culture of inquiry:
Our STEM education vision begins with nurturing the innate curiosity of our boys and helping them discover the creative power that is potent in them. We encourage them to question, explore, and seek answers to real-world problems. Our classrooms will be transformed into dynamic learning spaces where curiosity becomes the catalyst for discovery, and questions fuel a thirst for knowledge.
Integrating cross-disciplinary learning:
STEM education goes beyond individual subjects; it emphasizes the interconnectedness of knowledge. Our approach embraces cross-disciplinary learning that highlights the relationships between science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. By integrating concepts from different fields, students will gain a holistic understanding of the world and the impact of their learning.
Hands-on Experiences and Practical Learning
Central to our vision is the incorporation of hands-on experiences and practical learning opportunities. Students will engage in experiments, design projects, and real-world simulations, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Through these activities, they will develop a deep understanding of theoretical concepts and build the skills needed for future STEM careers.
Embracing technology and innovation
We envision our school as a hub of technological innovation. Our students will have access to cutting-edge technology, including coding, robotics, 3D printing, and virtual reality. By embracing technology, we will prepare our students to be adaptive and well-versed in the digital landscape of the future.
Collaborative and team-based learning
Collaboration is key to success in the STEM fields. Our vision promotes teamwork, communication, and the ability to work effectively in groups. Students will engage in team-based projects, where they learn to leverage each other's strengths and work collectively to find solutions to complex challenges.
Connecting with industry and research institutions
To make learning relevant and exciting, we will foster partnerships with local industries, research institutions, and universities (both locally and internationally). Students will have the opportunity to interact with experts through mentorships and internships, engage in real-world projects, and experience the practical applications of STEM in various fields.
Continuous improvement and assessment
Our vision acknowledges that education is an ever-evolving process. We commit to continuously improving our STEM program based on feedback, assessment data, and best practices. We will adapt our curriculum, teaching methodologies, and resources to ensure that our students receive the best possible STEM education experience.
Teacher training and professional development
We conduct workshops and training sessions for teachers to familiarize them with STEM concepts and teaching methodologies. We encourage them to embrace interactive and hands-on teaching approaches to foster student engagement.
STEM Clubs and Competitions
The school has STEM clubs and organizes competitions to encourage students to explore STEM fields beyond regular classroom activities. Participating in regional, national, and international STEM competitions will motivate our boys to excel and showcase their talents.
Invest in Technology and Resources
The school has access to adequate technology and resources necessary for STEM education, including strong computer labs, scientific equipment, and sufficient robotics kits.
Monitor and evaluate
We will regularly assess the effectiveness of the STEM program through feedback from teachers, students, and parents. We will use this feedback to make improvements and adjustments to the program over time.