If we were to define the word ‘action’ we would easily be able to do this. It’s something we do – isn’t it? But action is more than that. Action is a part of who we are and if we want to make a difference in the world we need to start with changing ourselves. The College and Lindfield Mission Statements aim to develop men of substance who make a difference in our world which is achievable through action.

There is no difference in the meaning when we refer to ‘action’ in terms of the PYP. But we all know that change is hard and often met with obstacles and resistance. We need to make changes in the way we think and act so that we are able to improve our world, locally and globally.

In the PYP a balance is sought between acquisition of essential knowledge and skills, development of conceptual understanding, demonstration of positive attitudes, and taking of responsible action (the five essential elements of the taught curriculum).

If we want to achieve the school and college mission of developing men of substance making a difference in the world, we need to help them to personalise the action they take and understand that it is not a directive from teachers or parents but rather a life long mindset that is developed throughout their lives.

Taking action can happen at any age and at any stage of our lives and will look different at every age range. Every teacher wants their students to take action and through scaffolded learning experiences assist them to gain the skills and knowledge to take sustained and meaningful action.

What does action look like?

There is probably no better evidence of action than the Year 6 Exhibition. But we don’t have to wait until the boys are twelve years old to learn about and show action.  Action is voluntary and demonstrates learning which is student initiated moving beyond and extending the planned learning of the classroom. It is a form of evidence that individual students or groups of students demonstrate. The learning that is planned provides students with a platform to choose to act, to decide on their action and to reflect on these actions in order to made a difference in the world. Successful inquiry will lead to responsible action and thus reflects our values.

Action in the PYP can involve service to other students and to the wider community both inside and outside of the school. Through service they are able to grow both personally and socially developing such skills as cooperation, problem solving, conflict resolution and creative and critical thinking.

Mrs Sue Gough – PYP Co-ordinator