MADAM,

In the ever challenging global climate we live in, our education systems, and the young people within them, face some daunting challenges. Employers now demand the highest level of cognitive skills from their employees, in order to use digital tools, think creatively, innovate, and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.

However, core skills such as digital literacy, problem solving and critical thinking may not be explicitly taught in Wales’ schools. To help rectify this, and educate young people about skills that can often seem abstract, challenging and hard to put in to real terms, the British Council has developed a training programme, Connecting Classrooms, in collaboration with Think, Learn, Challenge!

As a result, local teachers can now learn how to teach essential core skills to children in their classroom. By working in collaboration with other local teachers, they can share ideas and learnings with each other and take these back into the classroom to boost engagement with pupils. Teachers can help their pupils to not only better interact with themselves and each other, but with the ever-changing world around them. They can even apply for a £3,000 grant to help further their knowledge overseas – and return to their UK classrooms with improved techniques.

Young people being given the chance to access education that supports the development of academic knowledge alongside the acquisition of core skills will be crucial to Wales’ future success and prosperity. What’s more, it will positively impact on the wellbeing of others in the community. By supporting local teachers with their own professional development, we can ultimately create a brighter, more fulfilling future for young people and our society as a whole.

Julie Addis

(Think, Learn, Challenge!)