A WORD TO PARENTS AND GUARDIANS

'Working Smart' in the 21st Century

As little as a decade ago, rote learning was still at the height of popularity. The acquiring of knowledge through passive memorising and recall had, indeed, embodied traditional learning for centuries. For most part of the twentieth century, student success had continued to be measured in quantitative terms: The more you know, the smarter you are. Don't worry if you don't understand. Just get it right!

The legacy of rote learning is evident in those students who come to Edworks expecting to rely on their innate ability, and the fast answer and repetitive, practice programs to get them through. Such an approach leaves little room for independent thinking – for questioning issues, critical analysis, assessment and problem solving – and the consequential personal development and growth that accompanies it. Revealingly, such students form a large part of Edworks' new enrolments and these are the students whose attitudes are transformed and who benefit greatly from the Edworks' experience.

Thus, through a stimulating and personally tailored program for each student (based on a student's preferred areas of learning) all Edworks' young people are encouraged to take that step beyond their innate ability to new levels of awareness. Here, they learn how to 'work smart' – to think creatively, to dissect, evaluate and comprehend issues, to form opinions, problem solve and to become discerning and effective communicators.

Naturally, confidence blooms, and with it comes increased critical and independent thinking, self-reliance and a greater competitive spirit – the very qualities demanded by higher learning and successful adulthood. In fact, for many students, Edworks' programs offer a genuine awakening. What excites them is that they suddenly have a sense of control over the learning process. They begin to grasp that learning is meaningful, that it has a purpose – that it is not just an endless series of questions and answers. This is true for both the gifted student seeking extension and the struggling student who needs a helping hand. The program strategies and skill building that lead to greater understanding therefore provide a new appreciation of the relevance of learning – and this, in turn, drives the desire for learning and achieving more, and thus, greater levels of success.

I trust that in browsing our Website you will gain some valuable insights into Edworks' teaching philosophy and how its programs may benefit your son or daughter. I cordially invite you to contact us, should you need further assistance in assessing your child's needs.

Greg Nicholson, CEO.