St George Secondary School is revolutionizing educational approaches through a comprehensive strategy emphasizing student wellbeing, practical skills development, and community integration. Principal Dennis Browne unveiled these transformative initiatives during the institution’s annual speech day and prize-giving ceremony, signaling a paradigm shift in educational methodology.
The school has implemented an innovative alternative uniform system specifically for skills-training days, designed to foster student pride and recognition. This sartorial approach allows learners to visibly identify with technical and vocational programs while promoting the school’s commitment to hands-on education within the Barbadian community.
Addressing behavioral development, the administration has rebranded its positive behavior management program with a values-driven framework. This is complemented by strengthened partnerships with key agencies including the Edna Nicholls Centre, Juvenile Liaison Scheme, and National Task Force on Crime Prevention, creating a supportive ecosystem for student development.
A standout initiative involves scheduled mental health days each term, where students engage in unconventional activities including equine grooming, canine interaction, and various non-academic exercises. These experiences are carefully designed to promote emotional wellbeing, joy, and behavioral maturation beyond traditional classroom boundaries.
Principal Browne highlighted transportation challenges as a significant barrier to extracurricular participation, advocating for improved transport solutions to support student engagement.
Minister of Educational Transformation Chad Blackman commended the school’s leadership and comprehensive vision, recognizing St George Secondary as “a beacon of excellence in Barbados.” He particularly praised the practical-learning initiatives and encouraged students to embrace their role as “architects of the transformation of this country.”
The ceremony, themed “The Rising of the Lion: Celebrating Strength, Spirit and Success,” honored outstanding scholars including Asia Edwards, recipient of the Chairman’s Prize, and Jahsmyne Taitt, who received multiple accolades including Most Outstanding Student and Principal’s Prize.