Year Five, Still Alive, Thriving and Striving: CFS Growth In Action
In 2025, we proudly celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Child-Friendly Schools (CFS) course, initiated in 2020 by the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MoESYI), in collaboration with the National College for Educational Leadership (NCEL) and UNICEF Jamaica. This transformative journey has significantly influenced how schools create learning environments characterised by compassion and joy.
Over the past five years, the CFS course has empowered educators to implement strategies that prioritise the well-being of students, fostering inclusive and supportive educational spaces. As we reflect on this achievement, we recognise the ongoing commitment of our schools to embrace the principles of child-friendly education, ensuring that every child has access to a nurturing and safe learning environment.
From the outset, the vision was clear: to establish schools where every child feels safe, nurtured, and inspired to learn. The foundation of these child-friendly schools lies in a holistic approach that addresses not only academic needs but also emotional, social, and physical well-being. Classrooms are designed to be interactive and engaging, fostering a love for learning from an early age.
The NCEL has since trained 21 cohorts ( approximately one thousand two hundred fifty system and school leaders). Creating a foundation for learning across the early childhood to tertiary school system, each education region has a CFS Leadership Ambassador who is expected to maintain a professional learning community (PLC) that fosters leadership in CFS. During the 2024 calendar year, the NCEL trained 149 school leaders in CFS via our iSIMS platform. Many eagerly await the next intake that will be offered in the first quarter of next financial year.
Empowering Educators:
Central to the success of child-friendly schools are the educators who tirelessly dedicate themselves to shaping the minds of the future. Over the past five years, teachers have undergone specialised training to enhance their skills in creating inclusive and interactive learning environments. The result is a team of passionate educators committed to unlocking the full potential of every child.
Innovative Teaching Methods:
Child-friendly schools in Jamaica have embraced innovative teaching methods that cater to various learning styles. From project-based learning to incorporating technology in the classroom, these schools prioritise creativity and critical thinking. The goal is to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Safe and Supportive Environments:
A crucial aspect of child-friendly schools is the emphasis on safety and support. From well-maintained facilities to nurturing support staff, every element is designed to create a positive and secure atmosphere. The schools actively promote positive discipline, conflict resolution, and emotional well-being to ensure that each child feels valued and respected.
Community Engagement and Partnerships:
Celebrating five years of child-friendly schools also means acknowledging the invaluable support from the local community and various stakeholders. Partnerships with parents, community leaders, and businesses have played a pivotal role in sustaining these schools. Through collaborative efforts, the impact of child-friendly education extends beyond the school gates, enriching the entire community.
Looking Ahead:
As we celebrate five years of child-friendly schools in Jamaica, the journey is far from over. The commitment to nurturing young minds, fostering a love for learning, and creating a supportive community remains steadfast. The future holds exciting possibilities as these schools continue to evolve, adapt, and provide a foundation for the bright futures of the next generation.
The CFS Post Training Reflection continues to give the College insights into the creativity, talent and innovations that will continue to unfold in years to come as the concept will continue to make its mark on all schools across the seven administrative regions.
The NCEL remains dedicated to advancing school leadership development, and as we look ahead, we are excited about the continued impact of the CFS initiative on educational practices across Jamaica.
Success Stories and Milestones:
As we commemorate this milestone, it’s heartening to reflect on the success stories and milestones achieved by students who have thrived in child-friendly schools. From academic achievements to personal growth, these stories inspire us to continue investing in the well-being and education of our children.
In celebrating five years of child-friendly schools in Jamaica, we honour the dedication, passion, and collaborative spirit that have brought this vision to life. These schools stand as beacons of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter, more inclusive future for the children of Jamaica. Here’s to many more years of success, growth, and joy in the journey of education!
We look forward to sharing snippets from the leadership voices that chronicle the narratives from the field of CFS: democratic participation, Child- centeredness, inclusivity and protection.
#happychildrenhappynation
