By Gowhar Maqbool
In an educational landscape where conventional teaching methods are increasingly being questioned, Salvatore International School stands apart with its dynamic, student-centered approach to learning. Head of the institution, Haya Qazi, provides insights into how the school is revolutionizing education by fostering creativity and real-world readiness.
Q: What makes Salvatore’s educational approach unique?
A: With over three decades of experience in education, we’ve developed a system that equips students with the skills needed to face real-world challenges. As part of the larger SSM College of Engineering family, we’ve noticed that many students, after school, lack essential skills like communication. In just a year, our students have represented Kashmir in national and international sports, including kickboxing, wushu, and rugby. Additionally, we integrate the Ministry of Electronics’ digital literacy program, ensuring that our students graduate with NSQF certification. From life skills like swimming and martial arts to hands-on learning in our on-campus nursery and kitchen, we focus on holistic development.
Q: How has the role of teachers evolved at Salvatore?
A: Teachers at Salvatore go beyond their traditional roles. They create an atmosphere of curiosity, ensuring conceptual clarity through interactive teaching. After each lesson, students present their understanding to peers, promoting peer learning. Teachers also act as mentors, supporting students emotionally and socially, and balancing roles as guides, friends, and educators.
Q: What distinguishes your classroom activities from those in traditional schools?
A: Our teaching is competency-based and engaging. Participation in Olympiads helps students develop critical thinking from an early age. We use smart classrooms with audio-visual aids and emphasize experiential learning. Students visit fields to understand concepts like seasons, and industrial visits and guest lectures are key elements of our curriculum.
Q: How does Salvatore build emotional intelligence and soft skills?
A: Emotional intelligence and soft skills are core to our philosophy. Group activities teach cooperation, collaboration, and mutual respect. Teachers give individual attention to ensure students develop mental resilience and professional skills, preparing them for future challenges.
Q: How does peer learning and collaboration differ at Salvatore compared to traditional schools?
A: In today’s world, interdependence is essential. At Salvatore, we foster peer learning through collaborative exchanges in both academics and sports. Our students lead by example and are encouraged to make a positive impact on their communities, promoting healthy competition and leadership.
Q: How has the teacher-student relationship evolved at Salvatore?
A: Our teachers are young, energetic, and empathetic, building lasting relationships with students. This personal connection helps create a nurturing environment where holistic development is prioritized, and students feel supported beyond academics.
Q: How does Salvatore’s assessment and feedback model differ from traditional systems?
A: Our assessments go beyond report cards. Each student has a personalized profile tracking their academic and personal growth. Feedback from parents is regularly incorporated to fine-tune our teaching methods. Assessments include project work, co-curricular activities, and subject enrichment alongside conventional exams.
Q: How are teachers trained to adapt to Salvatore’s innovative teaching methods?
A: Continuous professional development is essential for our teachers. We provide regular training from both national and international experts. Teachers engage in group discussions on global best practices and receive digital training to ensure they remain at the forefront of educational innovation.
Q: What guiding principles shape your teaching methods?
A: Education at Salvatore is about more than academic performance. We aim to build confidence, wisdom, and strong ethical values. Our holistic approach nurtures both social and academic skills. Bandipora is rich in intellectual potential, and we are committed to grooming young minds to excel in all aspects of life.
